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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAssesment District 2004-02 File 1ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Philip Drell (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 4. Project Location: Area generally bounded by Gerald Ford Drive, Portola Avenue, Monterey Avenue, 35`" Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive (see attached map). 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm DesertCA 92260 6. General Plan Designation: R-L, R-M/R-HO, C-R 7. Zoning: PR-5, PCD, SI 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary.) Formation of an assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Exhibit A. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: (Briefly describe the project's surroundings.) The area is surrounded by commercial, residential, resort and industrial land uses. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): Palm Springs Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. ® Aesthetics ❑ Agriculture Resources ® Air Quality ® Biological Resources ❑ Cultural Resources ® Geology / Soils Hazards & Hazardous Materials ® Hydrology / Water Quality Land Use / Planning ❑ Mineral Resources Noise ® Population / Housing ® Public Services ® Recreation ® Transportation / Traffic Utilities / Service Systems ® Mandatory Findings of Significance CITY (STANDARD)ASAC\JT13\2005\22628.1 Page 1 of 15 FORM "J" DETERMINATION (To be completed by the Lead Agency): On the basis of this initial evaluation: ❑ I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. ❑ I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. Signature Philip Drell Printed Name EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: Date For A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). CITY (STANDARD)ASACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 2 of 15 FORM " 7" NOTICE OF DETERMINATION RECEIVED Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse2007 P.O. Box 751 P,O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 o�tMI1 i DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT t. Sacramento, OA 9 JDAMSERT FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT,., 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 R. 4 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 or 21152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval: January 25, 2007 State Clearinc ihouse Number if submitted): 2006081 156 r Contact Person: Steve Smith Acting Director of Community Development f `' (760) 346-061 1 ext. 486 � Project Location and Description: ✓ / The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. *NOTE: Fish and Game fees for this project were previously paid. See attached receipt. NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder P.O. Box 751 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 3044 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Proiect Approval: January 25, 2007 State Clearinahouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 Contact Person: Steve Smith Acting Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 486 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. *NOTE: Fish and Game fees for this project were previously paid. See attached receipt. RECEIVED STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME ENVIRONMENTAL FILING FEE CASH RECEIPT Lead Agency: CITY OF PALM DESERT OU 3120 o01MUNITY DEVELOPMENT DEPA>Z7"diENT CITY OF PALM DUW Receipt # 200601267 Date: 10/25/2006 County Agency of Filing: Riverside Document No: 200601267 Project Title: SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE; ASSESS DIST 2004-02 Project Applicant Name: CITY OF PALM DESERT Phone Number: Project Applicant Address: 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE PALM DESERT, CA 92260 Project Applicant. Local Public Agency CHECK APPLICABLE FEES: ❑ Environmental Impact Report ® Negative Declaration ❑ Application Fee Water Diversion (State Water Resources Control Board Only) ❑ Project Subject to Certified Regulatory Programs X� County Administration Fee Project that is exempt from fees (DeMinimis Exemption) ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (Notice of Exemption) Total Received Signature and title ofperson receivingpayment: Notes: 1250.00 $64.00 1314.00 (--� i /--� ( NOTICE OF DETERMINATION ry Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramerp CA 95812-3044 Q L 1 ll1~~ RIVERSIDE FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT COUN4 v I 73-510 Fred Waring Drive OCT 2 5 2006 Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Secti&11'1 1.nQ, of the Public Resources Code. Deputh Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Ag roval: October 12, 2006 'y r)e,,;a atom r e'er r,,� <<�d Aer p R C G�ete'Minat,, State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081156 PSrEp 21152 OCT ?528 Contact Person: Philip Drell 6 Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 ''y 77:- `�' Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. 1%w STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME ENVIRONMENTAL FILING FEE CASH RECEIPT Lead Agency: CITY OF PALM DESERT `fto RECEIVED V IE 3 2 12007 OMMUNIT ITMENT Y ELOPMENT OF PALM DESERT Receipt # 200700148 Date: 02/ 14/2007 County Agency of Filing: Riverside Document No: 200700148 Project Title: SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE, ASSESS. DISTRICT 2004-02 Project Applicant Name: CITY OF PALM DESERT Project Applicant Address: 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE PALM DESERT CA 92260 Project Applicant.. Local Public Agency Phone Number: CHECK APPLICABLE FEES: ❑ Environmental Impact Report ❑ Negative Declaration ❑ Application Fee Water Diversion (State Water Resources Control Board Only) ❑ Project Subject to Certified Regulatory Programs ❑X County Administration Fee $64.00 ❑X Project that is exempt from fees (DeMinimis Exemption) ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (Notice of Exemption) Total Received $64.00 Signature and title ofperson receiving payment: d� Notes: NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative -Declaration, TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State_Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 r- SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, -Arse'$sment District 2004-02 Date of Proiect Approval: January 25, 2007 State Clearinahouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 Contact Person: Steve Smith Acting Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 486 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEOA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature i me Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. *NOTE: Fish and Game fees for this project were previously paid. See attached receipt. iT i� ' ' ? )/ i k i J 171 Y,i ( i 4 . ECEI VE STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME ENVIRONMENTAL FILING FEE CASH RECEIPT Lead Agency: CITY OF PALM DESERT OCT 31 2006 COMIIIINITY DEVELOPMENT IIEPARTDiM CITY OF PALM 0ESW Receipt # 200601267 Date: 10/25/2006 County Agency of Filing: Riverside Document No: 200601267 Project Title: SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE; ASSESS DIST 2004-02 Project Applicant Name: CITY OF PALM DESERT Project Applicant Address: 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE PALM DESERT, CA 92260 Project Applicant. Local Public Agency CHECK APPLICABLE FEES: ❑ Environmental Impact Report Phone Number: X❑ Negative Declaration 1250.00 ❑ Application Fee Water Diversion (State Water Resources Control Board Only) ❑ Project Subject to Certified Regulatory Programs X❑ County Administration Fee $64.00 ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (DeMinimis Exemption) ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (Notice of Exemption) Total Received 1314.00 f P, Signature and title of person receiving payment: Notes: NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramer, CA 95812-3044 L FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT RIVERsioEcou 73-510 Fred Waring Drive OCT 2 5 2006 Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with SectAn11'1 -2VQQ, of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 De a at one Y UL Fp Date of Pro*ect Approval: October 12, 2006 Filed per PR c beterr,,,, POSTED 2rr52 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081156 On, Contact Person: Philip DrellF Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481��-p-- r Dent t i,orrl;� Proiect Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature i Me Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. NOTICE OF DETERMINATION �%l O� l917 Neaative Declaration (� " TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval,: January 25, 2007 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081156 Contact Person: Steve Smith Acting Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 486 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. *NOTE: Fish and Game fees for this project were previously paid. See attached receipt. W A R N I N G UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA 644234 THE TREASURER OF THE VERIFY THE SECURITY FEATURES ON THIS 73-785 EL PASEO n �V DOCUMENT. THEY INCLUDE AN ARTIFICIAL PALM DESERT, CA 9226013 - ARK ON THE BACK, HOLD AT AN "� [N-oa-M VID APPEAR ACE OANGLE FIDOCUME TO VIE, ANDWHOENN COPIED.S ON 16 49/1220 73-510 FRED WARINO DRIVE • PALM `DESERT. CA 92260 • (760) 346-0611 AMOUNT DATE 01-26-2007 $*********50,'00 0644 2 341i' is L 2 2000496i: 2 L 7000046611' CITY OF PALM DESERT PLEASE DETACH BEFORE DEPOSITING VOUCHER P.O. ITEM DESCRIPTION INVOICE 008967 SEC 29 MTR PLN DIST 04-02 FILING FEE INVENTORY NO. 644234 AMOUNT 50.00 TOTAL I$*********50.00 CITY OF PALM DESERT Assessment District 2004-02 Project Description The City of Palm Desert, in conjunction with the proposed privately financed development of 310 acres located in the northwest area of the city, proposes to form an assessment district to construct necessary public infrastructure improvements including streets, traffic signals, underground utilities and drainage facilities. The area proposed for development is surrounded by Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, Avenue 35, Dinah Shore Drive and Portola Avenue. The area consists of primarily undeveloped lands which are in various stages of entitlement and development. The properties include: 1) Lowes Corporation - a home improvement retail outlet including sq. ft. of retail space, parking and 7 acres of future;` development on 20 acres located on the northeast corner of Gerald Ford and Monterey Drives. The retail store is operational. 2) Sares-Regis Group — 324 condominiums located on 25 acres at the northwest corner of Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Avenue. Site is under development. 3) Rilington Homes — 153 single-family lots located on 36 acres at the northeast corner of Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Avenue. Site is under development. 4) Ponderosa Homes — 237 single-family lots located on 83 acres plus 42 undeveloped acres zoned for single-family residential at the northwest corner of Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue. Site is under development. 5) Desert Wells 237 — 30 acres located at the northwest corner of Portola Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive designated for high density residential. 6) MacLeod Family LP — 70 acres located on the southeast corner of Monterey Avenue and Avenue 35 including 35 acres residential/school site and 35 acres of residential/commercial. 7) Summit Properties — 224 condominiums on 20 acres located on the northeast corner of Gateway Avenue and Avenue 35. The efficient development of these properties requires the sharing of significant infrastructure systems. In planning the development of these properties, it was determined that the formation of an assessment district would allow the parties to plan, develop and finance these systems in a manner which fairly balanced costs and risks among the properties. The following list is a detailed description of the infrastructure to be constructed by the proposed assessment district: Ifs 1 i I i 1 � ( vrp I III I qN O j� qgy�a ' i 1 I I! I 1 I,I I AONTFAEY AVENUE Z O I� qt 7QQ 4 � I N Na� m"mpjz ��� 1 loylll I, q gX F O N e 11 I, �I I I I I 9 7 I EE �f � y I xg�tl F I �Bt pp Q(J a Nqt I 3� a � I ' $ -jw(9)�— V/ m a cc S F 3= x =;q m:�- Z!�= 0 o oa3�3 O = � Cc �1 ti 406 N O ; N THE TREASURER OF THE 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE • PALM DESERT, CA 92260 • (760) 346-0611 W A R N I N G UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA 644475 VERIFY THE SECURITY FEATURES ON THIS 73-785 EL PASEO DOCUMENT. THEY INCLUDE AN ARTIFICIAL PALM DESERT, CA 92260 WATERMARK ON THE BACK, HOLD AT AN 16.4911220 ANGLE TO VIEW, AND VOID APPEARS ON FACE OF DOCUMENT WHEN COPIED. AMOUNT DATE 02-02-2007 $*********43.00 PAY FORTY THREE AND 00/100 DOLLARS TO THE ORDER OF: RIVERSIDE COUNTY CLERK/RECORDR P.O. BOX 751 RIVERSIDE CA 92502-0751 1186444 7 Sul 1: L 2 2000496': 2 L 700004661in CITY OF PALM DESERT PLEASE DETACH BEFORE DEPOSITING VOUCHER P.O. ITEM DESCRIPTION INVOICE 009363 RELEASE & COPY FEES 9/06 S INV 10/26/06 009367 SEC 29 MTR PLN DIST 04-02 FILING FEE BAL MAYOR TREASURER INVENTORY NO. 644475 AMOUNT TOTAL 29.00 14.00 1$*********43.00 NOTICE OF DETERMINATION RECEIVED Negative Declaration .► TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearin puuse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 304 MUNITYDEVELOPMENTDEPARTMENT r,ITY OF PALM ppE ERT Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-304 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 XT SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance wit#N,Stwcti6r4-QQ110.8,cor 21152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Anproval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081156 .a JOS Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development Z (760) 346-0611 ext. 481`. Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1 . The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature I itle Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. O W -n tv °L C o. � r- eD 0 o m n ;a o � -v -•1 n m e) z :3ep 0 0 00 Iv N U3 ON, 4 rp -v 0 -n v 2 H CA m (A f� v N O -P 4a4 a o O c 2R-0X Y <M.O< -< WN O V�f O m m n`�o a c 'O z Uq O N n o r- v m L n v m o v ;a e -o rm C _� a 00 C: �- a z m` FS3 O 4 a 3.: o m " <� d � A O Cr1 eD -� m z- `. -i LARRY W. WARD County Clerk -Recorder P.O. Box 751 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE Riverside, CA 92502.0751 ASSESSOR -COUNTY CLERK -RECORDER (951)486.7000 www.riversidencr.cnm Important Notice The Assessor -County Clerk -Recorder Office announces that effective January 1, 2007, the Department of Fish & Game will substantially increase their fees due to the passage of SB-1535 - Chapter 667. The new provisions provide substantial fee increases for a Negative Declaration, which increases from $1,250.00 to $1,800.00 and the Environmental Impact Report which will increase from $850.00 to $2,500.00. Effective January 1, 2007, the Department of fish & Game will substantially increase their fees. This stems from SB 1535 Chapter 667. It will amend sections 104, 710, 710.5, 710.7, 711, 71 l .2, 711.4 and adds Section 106. Also, Sections 206 and 207 will be repealed. The new provisions require: That the filing fees shall be proportional to the cost incurred by the department and shall be annually reviewed and adjustments recommended to the Legislature in an amount necessary to pay the full costs of department programs as specified. The department shall annually adjust the fees pursuant to Section 713. Provides for a certificate of fee exemption on Fish & Game filling fees for projects that have no effect on fish and wildlife. Limits the use of the de minimis finding. Requires payment of $19800,00 for Fish & Game filing fee and $50.00 County Clerk documentary handling fee for a project where a Negative Declaration is prepared. Requires payment of $2,500.00 for Fish & Game filing fee and $50.00 County Clerk documentary handling fee for a project where an Environmental Impact Report is prepared. Requires payment of $50.00 County Clerk documentary handling fee for Notices of Exemption. Note: The County of Riverside currently charges $64.00 for a documentary handling fee which was approved by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors. As a courtesy we have enclosed a copy of Senate Bill No. 1535 for your review. If you have any questions regarding this matter, you may contact the Riverside County Clerk at (951) 486-7406. T r n 'n m rn r z D Davy N d ~ rn m K r N T N i Cl a r� v or, �_ S N m °» r) rn m c N �a X �� .a N 2 0 C (eD f� v_ n O X O z D z n m o C n vo m =� v o, m c; 0 Cl 0 ep 00 O z N N cn -.0 o, d (A -v 0 d 2 n c D a fD H (D r+ v. r+ N O O N a c m O A^ D L O O o z ` <0< m• m in 0 - O vxv mom nun0 D � %o z tA O N n o '-4 m Un ;a (m1 X v m rn C rn rn v 0 rnV -o m eD C^.� Ace C: C-- �. z O� V • v n o C = v J v 0 I � O "G Cr l >, vz --1 <_, NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative Declaration Now TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval: January 25, 2007 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 Contact Person: Steve Smith Acting Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 486 Prohect Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. *NOTE: Fish and Game fees for this project were previously paid. See attached receipt. 05 STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME ENVIRONMENTAL FILING FEE CASH RECEIPT Lead Agency: CITY OF PALM DESERT '00' RECEIVED' OU 31 M 0,oMm 1NM DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT CITY OF PALM 12E9EAT Receipt# 200601267 Date: 10/25/2006 County Agency of Filing: Riverside Document No: 200601267 Project Title: SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE; ASSESS DIST 2004-02 Project Applicant Name: CITY OF PALM DESERT Project Applicant Address: 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE PALM DESERT, CA 92260 Project Applicant: Local Public Agency CHECK APPLICABLE FEES: ❑ Environmental Impact Report Phone Number: Q Negative Declaration 1250.00 Application Fee Water Diversion (State Water Resources Control Board Only) Project Subject to Certified Regulatory Programs FXJ County Administration Fee $64.00 Project that is exempt from fees (DeMinimis Exemption) Project that is exempt from fees (Notice of Exemption) Total Received 1314.00 Signature and title of person receivingpayment: Notes: NOTICE OF DETERMINATION *ale Negative Declaration 14" t TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento.. CDA 9 r5�812-3044 � RI°✓ERSIDE Gp �2 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT UN 73-510 Fred Waring Drive OCT 2 5 2006 Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Secti&111_ftZr 11�1+52 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 �C r a Date of Project Approval: October 12, 2006 i,,) � �'p� t � State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 — J mint,i Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 y _— Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature i ille Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. In STATE OF CALIFORNIA - THE RESOURCES AGENCY DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND GAME ENVIRONMENTAL FILING FEE CASH RECEIPT Lead Agency: CITY OF PALM DESERT ,n.uCEIVED OU 31 M oOMHIINIrl DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT CITY OF PALM TMERT Receipt # 200601267 Date: 10/25/2006 County Agency of Filing.• Riverside Document No: 200601267 Project Title: SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE; ASSESS DIST 2004-02 Project Applicant Name: CITY. OF PALM DESERT Project Applicant Address: 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE PALM DESERT, CA 92260 Project Applicant: Local Public Agency CHECK APPLICABLE FEES. Environmental Impact Report Phone Number: XJ Negative Declaration 1250.00 ❑ Application Fee Water Diversion (State Water Resources Control Board Only) (] Project Subject to Certified Regulatory Programs XJ County Administration Fee $64.00 ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (DeMinimis Exemption) ❑ Project that is exempt from fees (Notice of Exemption) Total Received 1314.00 Signature and title of person receiving payment: Notes: NOTICE OF DETERMINATION • ""' Negative Declaration ', TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento,, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive OCT 2 Palm Desert, CA 92260 'Jy 1 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section11$"r of the Public Resources Code. Protect Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Protect Approval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 f� Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 -Y - Protect Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature i me Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. NOTICE OF DETERMINATION NOW Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081 156 Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature Title Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. W A R N I N G UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA 641794 THE TREASURER OF THE VERIFY THE SECURITY FEATURES ON THIS '3-785 EL PASEO '• DOCUMENT. THEY INCLUDE AN ARTIFICIAL ALM DESERT, CA: 92260 13 WATERMARK ON THE BACK, HOLD 0 AN �"� �"� ANGLE TO ACE OF DOCUMAND VOID APPEAR ENT WHEN COPIEDSTON 16-49/1220 73-510. FRED WAKING DRIVE. PALM DESERT, CA 92260. 4760) 346-0611 AMOUNT - DATE 10-20-2006 $******1,314.00 PAY ONE THOUSAND THREE HUNDRED FOURTEEN AND 00/100 ®ems BORDER CONTAINS MICROPRINTING II'64 L 79Lon 1: L 2 20004961: 2 L 70000466111 CITY OF PALM DESERT PLEASE DETACH BEFORE DEPOSITING INVENTORY NO. 641 794 VOUCHER P.O. ITEM DESCRIPTION INVOICE AMOUNT 004506 FILING FEE NEG DECLARATION 1,314.00 TOTAL 1$******1,314.00 W A R N I N G UNION BANK OF CALIFORNIA 641794 THE TREASURER OF THE VERIFY THE SECURITY FEATURES ON THIS 3-785 EL PASEO �IIM� DOCUMENT. THEY INCLUDE AN ARTIFICIAL ALM DESERT, CA. 92260WATERMARK ON THE BACK, HOLD . AN TO VIEW, AND VOID APPEARS T16-49/1220 ON pjIJ LLLIII ly ANGLE E ItIY\�/J FACE OF DOCUMENT WHEN COPIED. 73410>FRED WARING DRIVE. r PALM DESERT, CA'92160. (760) 346-0611 AMOUNT DATE 10-20-2006 $******1,314..00 PAY ONE THOUSAND THREE 'HUNDRED FOURTEEN AND 00/100 w�® BORDER COITTAINS MICROPRINTING 11164 09411' 1: 1 2 20004961: 2 00000466►1' CITY OF PALM DESERT PLEASE DETACH BEFORE DEPOSITING INVENTORY NO. 641 794 VOUCHER P.O. ITEM DESCRIPTION INVOICE AMOUNT 004506 FILING FEE NEG DECLARATION 1,314.00 TOTAL 1$******1,314.00 NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): 2006081156 Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEOA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature I itle Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. �"�`CEDF PLaVGc�o OF STATE OF CALIFORNIA OW• 'A u�a' 7[ ° Governor's Office of Planning and Research F,aN► State Clearinghouse and Planning Unit OF COO Arnold Schwarzenegger Sean Walsh Governor Director ^ October 2, 2006 yIF OL;T 12 20M Philip Drell City of Palm Desert CITY 73 -5 10 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92201 Subject: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment Dist. 2004-02 SCH#: 2006081156 Dear Philip Drell: The State Clearinghouse submitted the above named Mitigated Negative Declaration to selected state agencies for review. On the enclosed Document Details Report please note that the Clearinghouse has listed the state agencies that reviewed your document. The review period closed on September 29, 2006, and the comments from the responding agency (ies) is (are) enclosed. If this comment package is not in order, please notify the State Clearinghouse immediately. Please refer to the project's ten -digit State Clearinghouse number in future correspondence so that we may respond promptly. Please note that Section 21104(c) of the California Public Resources Code states that: "A responsible or other public agency shall only make substantive comments regarding those activities involved in a project which are within an area of expertise of the agency or which are required to be carried out or approved by the agency. Those comments shall be supported by specific documentation." These continents are forwarded for use in preparing your final environmental document. Should you need more information or clarification of the enclosed comments, we recommend that you contact the commenting agency directly. This letter acknowledges that you have complied with the State Clearinghouse review requirements for draft environmental documents, pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act. Please contact the State Clearinghouse at (916) 445-06i3 if you have any questions regarding the environmental review process. Sincerely, Terry Roberts Director, State Clearinghouse Enclosures cc: Resources Agency 1400 TENTH STREET P.O. BOX 3044 SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA 96812-3044 TEL (916) 445-0613 FAX (916) 323-3018 www.opr.ca.gov Document Details Report *aw State Clearinghouse Data Baste, SCH# 2006081156 Project Title Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment Dist. 2004-02 Lead Agency Palm Desert, City of Type MN Mitigated Negative Declaration Description D Formation of assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in IS including streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and stormdrain improvements. Lead Agency Contact Name Philip Drell Agency City of Palm Desert Phone (760) 346-0611 x481 email Address 73-510 Fred Waring Drive City Palm Desert Project Location County Riverside City Palm Desert Region Cross Streets Gerald Ford / Monterey Parcel No. Various Township 4S Range 6E Fax State CA Zip 92201 Section 29 Base SB Proximity to: Highways 1-10 Airports Railways UPRR Waterways Schools CalState SB/Palm Desert Land Use Vacant Z: Planned Residential 5-13 du/ac and Planned Commercial/Industrial Project Issues AestheticNisual; Agricultural Land; Air Quality; Archaeologic -Historic; Cumulative Effects; Geologic/Seismic; Landuse; Minerals; Noise; Population/Housing Balance; Public Services; Recreation/Parks; Sewer Capacity; Toxic/Hazardous; Traffic/Circulation; Water Quality; Wildlife Reviewing Resources Agency; Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 7; Department of Parks and Agencies Recreation; Native American Heritage Commission; Public Utilities Commission; Office of Historic Preservation; Department of Fish and Game, Region 6; Department of Water Resources; California Highway Patrol; Caltrans, District 8; Air Resources Board, Transportation Projects; Department of Toxic Substances Control; State Water Resources Control Board, Division of Water Rights Date Received 08/28/2006 Start of Review 08/30/2006 End of Review 09/29/2006 Note: Blanks in data fields result from insufficient information provided by lead agency. N✓ -Age NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION 915 CAPITOL MALL, ROOM 364 SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 (916) 653-4082 Fax (916) 657-5390 Web Site www.nahc.ca.gov September 7, 2006 Mr. Phil Drell, Director of Community Development City.of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 nor RECEIVED SEP, 1 1 2006 STATE CLEARING HOUSE Re: SCH#2006081156: CEQA Notice of Completion: Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure. Assessment District 2004-02: Palm Desert:: Riverside County, California Dear Mr. Drell: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the above -referenced document. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that any project that causes a substantial adverse change in the significance of an historical resource, that includes archeological resources, is a `significant effect requiring the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR per CEQA guidelines § 15064.5(b)(c). In order to comply with this provision, the lead agency is required to assess whether the project will have an adverse impact on these resources within the area of project effect (APE), and if so, to mitigate that effect. To adequately assess the project - related impacts on historical resources, the Commission recommends the following action: d Contact the appropriate California Historic Resources Information Center (CHRIS). The record search will determine: ■ If a part or the entire APE has been previously surveyed for cultural resources. ■ If any known cultural resources have already been recorded in or adjacent to the APE. ■ If the probability is low, moderate, or high that cultural resources are located in the APE. ■ If a survey is required to determine whether previously unrecorded cultural resources are present. 4 If an archaeological inventory survey is required, the final stage is the preparation of a professional report detailing the findings and recommendations of the records search and field survey. • The final report containing site forms, site significance, and mitigation measurers should be submitted immediately to the planning department. All information regarding site locations, Native American human remains, and associated funerary objects should be in a separate confidential addendum, and not be made available for pubic disclosure. ■ The final written report should be submitted within 3 months after work has been completed to the appropriate regional archaeological Information Center. 4 Contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for: * A Sacred Lands File (SLF) search of the project area and information on tribal contacts in the project vicinity who may have additional cultural resource information. Please provide this office with the following citation format to assist with the Sacred Lands File search request: USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle citation with name, township, range and section: . • The NAHC advises the use of Native American Monitors to ensure proper identification and care given cultural resources that may be discovered. The NAHC recommends that contact be made with Native American Contacts on the attached list to get their input on potential project impact, particularly the contacts of the on the list. J Lack of surface evidence of archeological resources does not preclude their subsurface existence. • Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for the identification and evaluation of accidentally discovered archeological resources, per California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) §15064.5 (f). In areas of identified archaeological sensitivity, a certified archaeologist and a culturally affiliated Native American, with knowledge in cultural resources, should monitor all ground -disturbing activities. ■ Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for the disposition of recovered artifacts, in consultation with culturally affiliated Native Americans. 4 Lead agencies should include provisions for discovery of Native American human remains or unmarked cemeteries in their mitigation plans. * CEQA Guidelines, Section 15064.5(d) requires the lead agency to work with the Native Americans identified by this Commission if the initial Study identifies the presence or likely presence of Native American human remains within the APE. CEQA Guidelines provide for agreements with Native American, identified by the NOW NAHC, to assure the appropriate and dignified treatment of Native American human remains and any associated grave liens. �l Health and Safety Code §7050.5, Public Resources Code §5097.98 and Sec. §15064.5 (d) of the CEQA Guidelines mandate procedures to be followed in the event of an accidental discovery of any human remains in a location other than a dedicated cemetery. 4 Lead agencies should consider avoidance as defined in 4 15370 of the CEQA Guidelines, when significant cultural resources are discovered during the course of project planning. Please feel free to contact me at (916) 653-6251 if you have any questions. Cc: State Clearinghouse Attachment: List of Native American Contacts r `err L RIVERSIDE O NTV t U 0of 1 2006 40G 2 1.00E OF PALM DESERT CITY OF M. Nieye; nepub" NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION E DATE: August 25, 2006li TO: Responsible and Trustee Agencies / Interested Or aniftsans�lnc�ivid.uals FROM: City of Palm Desert RE: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental effects, these impacts will not be significant because the mitigation measures described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the requirements of CEQA and the State and City Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. This. notice constitutes a Notice of intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The project involves the formation of an Assessment District to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. Other Permits: Project involves improvements associated with Palm Springs Unified School District, Coachella Valley Water District and California Department of Transportation. NOTICE OF DETERMINATION 14"Iew Negative Declaration vftw TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21 108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Protect Approval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): N/A Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEOA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hall address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature I [SIG Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. r- trQ m v m LA o n C z N �o 3 co LA -v eD 0 v H "S C n G D Nf H eD v n' N O -P N D O< -< m• m LA0P O vxv mvm nLn0 � C Ul 0 N n o r' v m V rn n v m X o m eD -v w [� ^. N eD — � [n � ; cn Co 0 `T) 0 C C.\. O 7 Z ej d e r O CT7 fy a z �; NOTICE OF DETERMINATION Negative Declaration TO: Riverside Co. Clerk/Recorder State Clearinghouse P.O. Box 751 P.O. Box 3044 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 FROM: CITY OF PALM DESERT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 SUBJECT: Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 or 21 152 of the Public Resources Code. Project Title/Common Name: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Date of Project Approval: October 12, 2006 State Clearinghouse Number (if submitted): N/A Contact Person: Philip Drell Director of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 Project Location and Description: The project involves formation of an assessment district to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. This is to advise that the City of Palm Desert has made the following determinations regarding the above described project: 1. The project will not have a significant effect on the environment. 2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA. A copy of the Negative Declaration may be examined at the above city hail address. 3. Mitigation measures were made a condition of the approval of the project. 4. A statement of Overriding Considerations was not adopted for this project. Signature I I Lit! Date Received for Filing Please return date -stamped copy in the enclosed envelope. 1 REQUEST: SUBMITTED BY: DATE: CONTENTS: Recommendation: CITY OF PALM DESERT STAFF REPORT Consideration of Adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration in Connection with the Proposed Section 29 Assessment District Philip Drell, Director of Community Development October 12, 2006 Exhibit 1: Draft Resolution 06- , with Ex. A — Initial Study and Ex. B — Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program Exhibit 2: General Plan EIR Exhibit 111-14 That the City Council: Adopt Resolution No. City of Palm Desert findings and adopting a Executive Summary: 06-_ in connection with the proposed formation of the Section 29 Assessment District making environmental Mitigated Negative Declaration. Staff recommends adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration in connection with the proposed formation of the Section 29 Assessment District to fund public infrastructure improvements so as to comply with the requirements of the California Environmental Quality Act. Background: The owners of certain property located within the City of Palm Desert have requested that the City Council undertake proceedings pursuant to the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913 (California Streets and Highways Code Section 10000, et seg.) (the "1913 Act") to form the Section 29 Assessment District for the purpose of acquiring, constructing and installing certain public infrastructure, including sewer and water lines, street improvements and storm drain improvements. Pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), City staff prepared an Initial Study in connection with the proposed formation of the Assessment District and the improvements described above (the "Project"). The Initial Study concluded that the Project would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts with the implementation of certain mitigation measures. A copy of the Initial Study is included as an Exhibit A to the attached draft Resolution 06- . A Mitigated Negative Declaration (SCH#2006081156) was prepared and circulated for a 30-day public review and Staff Report Section 29 Assessment District Page 2 October 12, 2006 comment period, during which the City received comment letters from the Coachella Valley Water District, the Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments. Responses to each of these letters follow. Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) The CVWD letter did not raise any environmental issues and no response is necessary. Native American Heritage Commission The Native American Heritage Commission recommended a record search to determine potential impacts on Native American cultural resources. Response: The area was assessed for cultural resources in the General Plan EIR(see attached Exhibit 2, a copy of EIR exhibit 111-14).The analysis concluded that the subject area was not within a zone designated as high sensitivity or relatively high sensitivity for prehistoric cultural resources from the pre 1940 era. No significant impacts are anticipated. State of California Public Utilities Commission The Public Utilities Commission expressed traffic concerns involving a Union Pacific Railroad "at -grade crossing" on Monterey Ave. Response: The railroad tracks go under the Monterey/110 Interchange. There is no at -grade crossing. Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (CVMVCD) Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District identified potential impacts from mosquitoes, synanthropic flies and rodents resulting from development. Response: Mosquitoes The design review of drainage facilities by the Department of Public Works and CVWD follows BMPs to insure that the potential for standing water is reduced to minimum. The City has a regular maintenance program to address standing water in catch basins, retention ponds, dry wells and drainage channels. The City contracts with the CVMVCD to control mosquitoes when standing water is unavoidable. In addition, the City periodically educates and reminds the public through the citywide newsletter of the importance of eliminating standing water on their property. Continued enforcement of the City's Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance will reduce 2 Staff Report Section 29 Assessment District Page 3 October 12, 2006 the volume of nuisance water entering the drainage system, although this is beyond the scope of this project. Synanthropic Flies The City will work with CVMVCD and the waste hauler Burtec to improve the sealing of trash containers and educate the public and commercial community concerning strategies that eliminate the potential for the breeding of flies, although this is beyond the scope of this particular infrastructure improvement project. Rodents. As part of the normal building inspection process, the City requires all building penetrations including plumbing and electrical lines to be sealed. Through the City newsletter the residents will be informed of the role diligent property maintenance plays in controlling pests, although this is beyond the scope of this infrastructure improvement project. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) The SCAG letter did not raise any environmental issues and no response is necessary. Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan A Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan setting forth the mitigation measures has been prepared for the project and is attached as Exhibit "B" to Resolution No. 06- Future Actions: The Council will be asked at a later date to consider additional proceedings for formation of the Assessment District and the issuance of Improvement bonds. Submitted by: Philip Drell Director of Community Development Approval: Carlos L. Ortega City Manager Approval: Homer Croy ACM for Development Services 3 ,%W `%00' RESOLUTION NO. 06- A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT TO MAKE ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS WITH RESPECT THERETO AND TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION IN CONNECTION THEREWITH RECITALS: WHEREAS, the owners of certain property located within the City of Palm Desert, as shown on Exhibit A, attached hereto, have requested the City Council to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913 (Division 12 of the Streets and Highways Code, commencing with Section 10,000) (the "1913 Act") to form an assessment district to be known as the "Section 29 Assessment District" for the purpose of acquiring, constructing and installing certain public infrastructure improvements (sewer and water lines, street improvements, storm drainage) of special benefit to the properties in the Assessment District; and WHEREAS, City staff has prepared an initial study (the "Initial Study") for the project, as defined in paragraph 8, and Exhibit A of the Initial Study (the "Project"), including formation of the Assessment District and financing the facilities described therein, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act, commencing with Section 21000 of the California Public Resources Code and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, Article 5 of Chapter 3 of Division 6 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, (collectively "CEQA"). The Initial Study concluded that the Project would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts with the implementation of certain mitigation measures. Therefore a Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared and circulated for a 30-day public review and comment period, during which the City received comment letters from the Coachella Valley Water District, the Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT: Recitals. The above recitals are all true and correct. 2. CEQA. a. The City Council of the City, the lead agency for the Project, has considered the Mitigated Negative Declaration and comment letters from the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), the Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities RESOLUTION NO. ow - in Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). b. The CVWD and the SCAG letters raised no environmental issues c. Responses to the environmental issues raised by Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District were provided in the staff report to the City Council. Those responses, in addition to other documentation in the administrative record, provide substantial evidence to support the conclusion that the project will not have the potential for significant impacts provided that certain mitigation measures are implemented. d. The City Council hereby finds, in its independent judgment after considering all relevant evidence in the record of proceedings for the Project, including without limitation the information set forth in the Mitigated Negative Declaration, the Initial Study and the staff report, that there is not substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project may actually produce any significant environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level through implementation of those mitigation measures identified in the Mitigated Negative Declaration. Therefore, the City Council finds that the Project will not have a significant environmental effect. e. The City Council finds that the Mitigated Negative Declaration reflects the City Council's independent judgment and analysis. F. The City Council hereby adopts the Mitigated Negative Declaration and the Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan for the proposed Project, attached hereto as Exhibit "B" and incorporated herein by reference. 3. Notice of Determination. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare a Notice of Determination, to file that Notice with the County Clerk in accordance with Section 15075(d) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, and to pay the applicable Fish and Game filing fee within five (5) days of the adoption of this Resolution. 4. Other Acts. The officers of the City are hereby authorized and directed, jointly and severally, to do any and all things, and to execute and deliver any and all documents which they may deem necessary or advisable, in order to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution, and any such actions previously taken by such officers are hereby ratified and confirmed. P6401 \ 1033\921581 v 1 2 RESOLUTION NO. 0 In PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, on the day of , 2006, by the following vote: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: ATTEST: RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, City Clerk City of Palm Desert, California JAMES FERGUSON, Mayor P6401\1033\921581vl 3 m cm EXHIBIT "A" P6401\1033\921581v1 A-1 CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION DATE: August 25, 2006 TO: Responsible and Trustee Agencies / Interested Organizations and Individuals FROM: City of Palm Desert RE: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental effects, these impacts will not be significant because the mitigation measures described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the requirements of CEQA and the State and City Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. This notice constitutes a Notice of intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The project involves the formation of an Assessment District to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. Other Permits: Project involves improvements associated with Palm Springs Unified School District, Coachella Valley Water District and California Department of Transportation. cm 0 NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 AUGUST 25, 2006 Toxic Sites: No listed toxic sites are present on the project site. Public Hearing: The City Council public hearing for this item has been set for September 28, 2006 beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Palm Desert City Council Chamber, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Public Review: The Initial Study and related documents are available for public review daily. Members of the public may view these documents at the Planning Department, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, and submit written comments at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. If anyone 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 submitted at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be directed to Mr. Phil Drell, City of Palm Desert, at (760) 346-0611. Comment Period: Based on the time limit defined by CEQA, your response should be sent at the earliest possible date. The public comment period on this project is from August 28 to September 28, 2006. All comments and any questions should be directed to: Mr. Phil Drell Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 346-0611 - OCA«vtt I-y wiaSter rian or infrastructure, Assessment Dist. 2004-02 Page 1 of 2 I Em California Home Wednesday OPR Home > CEQAnet Home > CEQAnet Query > Search Results > Document Description Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment Dist. 2004-02 SCH Number: 2006081156 Type: MND - Mitigated Negative Declaration Project Description Formation of assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in IS including streets, traffic signals, landsc sewer and stormdrain improvements. Project Lead Agency Palm Desert, City of Contact Information Primary Contact: Philip Drell City of Palm Desert (760) 346-0611 x481 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92201 Project Location County: Riverside City: Palm Desert Region: Cross Streets: Gerald Ford / Monterey Parcel No: Various Township: 4S Range: 6E Section: 29 Base: SB Other Location Info: Proximity To Highways: 1-10 Airports: Railways: UPRR Waterways: Schools: CalState SB/Palm Desert Land Use: Vacant Z: Planned Residential 5-13 du/ac and Planned Commercial/Industrial Development Type Water Facilities, Transportation: Local Road, Waste Treatment: Sewer, Other Local Action Other Action Project Issues http://www.ceganet.ca.gov/DocDescription.asp?DocPK=600698 10/4/2006 %-LYtIIIUL - Section Gy Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment Dist. 2004-02 Page 2 of 2 Aesthetic/Visual, Agricultural Land, Air Quality, Archaeologic -Historic, Cumulative Effects, Geologic/Seismic, Landuse, Minerals, Nois, Population/Housing Balance, Public Services, Recreation/Parks, Sewer Capacity, Toxic/Hazardous, Traffic/Circulation, Water Quality, Reviewing Agencies (Agencies in Bold Type submitted comment letters to the State Clearinghouse) Resources Agency; Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 7; Department of Parks and Recreation; Native American Heritac Public Utilities Commission; Office of Historic Preservation; Department of Fish and Game, Region 6; Department of Water Resource: Highway Patrol; Caltrans, District 8; Air Resources Board, Transportation Projects; Department of Toxic Substances Control; State W Control Board, Division of Water Rights Date Received: 8/28/2006 Start of Review: 8/30/2006 End of Review: 9/29/2006 CEQAnet HOME I NEW SEARCH http://www.ceqanet-ca-gov/DocDescription-asp?DocPK=600698 10/4/2006 Form A Notice of Completion 8r�vironmental Document Transmittal Mail to: State Clearinghouse, P. O. Box 3044, Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 SCH # (916) 445-0613 state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure Assessment Dist.200 — Lead Agency: c i t I, o f p a l,,, 4 n a a a r t Contact Person: Mailing Address: Philip Drell 7q_ D rinv TLr-i-1 a Phone: (760) 346-0611 ext City: Palm Yalm Desert zip: 92201 481 --- -------------------------------- Project County: Riverside Location: (See Map) County: R i v a r o• a e City/Nearest Community: P a l m Desert Cross streets: _Gerald Ford/Montere _ Assessor's Parcel No.various—_— ------ --L--- _ Zip Code: 9 2�_ Total Acres: 350 Section: Within 2 Miles: State Hwy /#: I _ 10 2 9 Twp. 4_ Range: �� Base: • B Waterways: Airports: Railways: Union P _—_----- acific schools: CalState SB al Document Type -------------.-- — — — — m Deser CEQA: ❑ NOP ❑ Supplement/Subsequent EIR NEPA: ❑ NO ❑ Early Cons (Prior SCH No.) I Other: ❑ Joint Document ❑ Neg Dec M Other M i t . N e ¢ Dec ❑ EA ❑ Final Document ❑ Draft EIR ❑ Draft EIS ❑ Other — — — ❑ FONSI Local Action Type: ❑ General Plan Update ❑ Specific Plan ❑ General Plan Amendment ❑Rezone ❑Annexation ❑ General Plan Element ❑Master Plan ❑ Prezone ❑ Planned Unit Development ❑ Use Permit ❑ Redevelopment ❑ Community Plan ❑Site Plan ❑ Coastal Permit _ _ _ _ _ _ _ ❑ Land Division (Subdivision, etc.) M OtherA s Development Type: — ----------_,— SeSs— Dist ype See list of infrastructure improvements --'-- ❑ Residential: Units Acres ❑ Office: Sq.ft. Acres M Transportation: Type local streets ❑ Commercial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Mining: Mineral ❑ Industrial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑Power: Employees M Waste Treatment: Tye Watts ❑ Educational ype��r � i n------_ ❑ Recreational ❑ Hazardous Waste: Type ® Water Facilities: Type Water i n a MGD M Other: s t o r m d r a i n a a line s ------------- ----- ---- Funding (approx.): Federal S — "— — — — — — — — — ._ — — — — — — — — — — state $ Total $ 5 0 2000,000 Project Issues Discussed in Document: — — —" — — — — — — — — — _. — — — ® Aesthetic/Visual ❑ Flood Plain/Flooding ❑ Schools/Universities ❑ Forest Land/Fire Hazard ❑ Septic Systems ® Water Quality M Air Quality M Geologic/Seismic Water Supply/Groundwater ® Archeological/Historical M Minerals ®Sewer ❑ ❑ Wetland/Riparian ❑ Coastal Zone M Noise ❑ Soil Erosion/Compaction/Grading ® Wildlife ❑ Drainage/Absorption ®Population/Flousing Balance ❑ Solid Waste ❑ ❑ Growth Inducing ❑ Fiscal Economic/Jobs M Toxic/Hazardous ® Public Services/Facilities ® Traffic/Circulation ® Land Use M Recreation/Parks M Cumulative Effects — — — _ — — — — — — — ❑ Vegetation Capacity ❑ Other Present Land Use/Zoning/General Plan Designation: Land Use: Vacant Z o n i n Residential 5-13 du/ac g� Planned --- ---_-- & Planned Commercial/Industrial Project Description: Formation of assessment district to finance ubl' infrastructure improvements described in Initial Study including streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer improvements. and stormdraii7 January 2004 93 Reviewing Agencies Chf ',list Form A, cont►,,,,od Resources Agency Boating & Waterways Coastal Conservancy Colorado River Board Conservation Fish & Game Forestry & Fire Protection Office of Historic Preservation Parks & Recreation Reclamation Board S.F. Bay Conservation & Development Commission Water Resources (DWR) Business, Transportation & Housing Aeronautics Califomia Highway Patrol -__S_CALTRANS District Department of Transportation Planning (headquarters) Housing & Community Development Food & Agriculture Health & Welfare Health Services State & Consumer Services General Services KEY S = Document sent by lead agency X = Document sent by SCH V = Suggested distribution Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board ---California Waste Management Board SWRCB: Clean Water Grants SWRCB: Delta Unit SWRCB: Water Quality SWRCB: Water Rights Regional WQCB # Youth & Adult Corrections Corrections Independent Commissions & Offices Energy Commission Native American Heritage Commission Public Utilities Commission Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy State Lands Commission Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Other ----------------------------------------- Public Review Period (to be filled In by lead agency) Starting Date August 28, 2006 Signature Lead Agency (Complete if applicable): Consulting Firm: Address: City/State/Zip: Contact: Phone: (_� Applicant: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: ( ) Ending Date September 28, 2006 Date August 25. 2006 For SCH Use Only: Date Received at SCH Date Review Starts _ Date to Agencies _ Date to SCH Clearance Date Notes: ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FOOW'' 1. Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73 -5 10 Fred Waring Drive Palm DesertCA 92260 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Philip Drell (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 4. Project Location: Area generally bounded by Gerald Ford Drive Portola Avenue Monterey Avenue 35`s Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive (see attached map) 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm DesertCA 92260 6. General Plan Designation: R-L, R-M/R-HO, C-R 7. Zoning: PR-5, PCD, SI 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary.) Formation of an assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Exhibit A. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: (Briefly describe the project's surroundings.) The area is surrounded by commercial, residential resort and industrial land uses 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): Palm Springs Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District California Department of Transportation ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Biological Resources E] Hazards & Hazardous Materials Mineral Resources Public Services Utilities / Service Systems Agriculture Resources Cultural Resources Hydrology / Water Quality Noise ❑ Recreation 0 Mandatory Findings of Significance Air Quality Geology / Soils Land Use / Planning Population / Housing Transportation / Traffic CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTM2005\22628.1 Page 1 of 15 FORM "J" DETERMINATION (To be cttoj,rteted by the Lead Agency): On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. �` %! - I # • Philip Drell Printed Name EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: Date For A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.l Page 2 of 15 FORM "J" Earlier analyses may be w%wwwhere, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analyses Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. Supporting Information Sources. A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. The explanation of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. SAMPLE QUESTION Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact AESTHETICS. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic a ^/ vista? L� b) Substantially damage scenic El a resources, including, but not limited ❑ to, tress, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing El visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial N light or glare which would adversely I� ❑ ❑ affect day or nighttime views in the area? CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTM2005\22628.1 Page 3 of 15 FORM "J" on Issues: AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non- agricultural use? AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? '"OLess Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ® ❑ ❑ o' ❑ ❑ ❑ rY ❑ ❑ ❑ P ❑ ❑ ❑ E� ❑ EK ❑ ❑ ❑ .� ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\.SACVTBQ005\22628.1 Page 4 of 15 FORM "J" cm Issues: d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? N"*Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑■ X a X 1 U u LEI Mi r-TFY (STANDARD)\SACVTM2005U2628.1 Page 5 of 15 FORM "7" Issues: f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in § 15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Potentially Significant Impact `Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Less Than Significant Impact No Impact d ❑ p' ❑ d ❑ c' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ IN E G E CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JT13i2005\22628.1 Page 6 of 15 FORM "J" `100Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil Q/ is unstable, or that would El El become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as O defined in Table 18 1 B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately El El a supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the ❑ public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle El El Rr LJ hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is ❑ �,/ included on a list of hazardous L�J materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 7 of 15 FORM ".I" Issues: 0 e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? 0 For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ Q/- ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ r3' ❑ 5i �GI d o CITY (STANDARD)\SAM13\2005\22628.1 Page 8 of 15 FORM "J" cm Issues: d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? fl Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Expose people or structures to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ [+' ❑ ❑ ❑ [✓- ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ &i ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ o CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 9 of 15 FORM "J" cm Issues: b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally -important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? NOISE. Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundbome vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? Potentially Significant Impact `-OLess Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated 01 7 F X ❑� ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Less Than Significant Impact El 01 a No Impact 721 ❑ Z CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 10 of 15 FORM "7" 'v.r Issues: e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the prof ect: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of road or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project: a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? Potentially Significant Impact L Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated El Fol ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 01 J U Less Than Significant Impact ❑■ ■❑ U F No Impact EN Mn (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 11 of 15 FORM " T "-Otess Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact Police protection? a Schools? ❑ ❑ Parks? ❑ ❑ ❑ G;k Other public facilities? ❑ RECREATION. Would the project: a) Increase the use of existing El ❑ ❑ neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational El O l� facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which have an adverse physical effect on the environment? TRANSPORTATION / TRAFFIC. Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is El Er El ❑ substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or ❑ cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic O patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due El to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? .:l t r (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 12 of 15 FORM "J" CM Issues: e) Result in inadequate emergency access? f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? In making this determination, the City shall consider whether the project is subject to the water supply assessment requirements of Water Code Section 10910, et. sea. (SB 610), and the requirements of Government Code Section 664737 (SB 221). `.-Oless Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ Z" ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ER` ❑ ❑ ❑ 21*1 ❑ ❑ ❑ GRe" ❑ ❑ ❑ (� (S"fANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 13 of 15 FORM "J" ,%we `�ess Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact e) Result in a determination by the El 11 ❑ wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? fl Be served by a landfill with Q sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local O statutes and regulations related to solid waste? MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential 17 L7 to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels; threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species; or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have the potential ❑ to achieve short-term environmental goals to the disadvantage of long- term environmental goals? c) Does the project have impacts that El El ❑ are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.) CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 14 of 15 FORM " 7" Issues: *ANW `—tess Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact d) Does the project have environmental El El El^/ effects which will cause substantial �J adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? .11 I ,J 1 AINUAKU)\JAI, V 1 t UM21\226Z8. 1 Page 15 of 15 FORM "J" oyt C Wilt IO� FFii W 33 yy., ZZ 4 yy 1W� {� y� K2 cc ■! I�00 O< €LL N j Ci y/ W WW O (yyyeVo QSO Q (U O �-+ O LLLL SFZi yCW�� pO y1 p K ypSl 35 Op O ezE �s W yy ` a I LL MI F WW q Oj O O w0w0 NW yyN� yN O U VO �JUJW UO' LLNd<z W O WW LL� W�51 Q'0<O V �UOW p py ��U �YaJf J Z K O N 6 O LL w R U �- f /w--j� Q J LLJ Q LL, v v � Z Q o I I W 0 a I i 1%w EXHIBIT A Monterey Avenue (South of 35"' Avenue to "A" Street): • Additional Right of Way dedication on east side • East side Street Improvements include: o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvements include 0 18-inch water main • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation Gerald Ford Drive (East of Gateway Drive to Portola Avenue): • Additional Right of Way dedication on north side (East of Dolce Development) • North side Street Improvement o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Median turn pocket to Gateway Drive o Median turn pocket to The Gallery Development o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main 0 • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Drive Portola Avenue (North of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 10-inch sewer main North of Dinah Shore to 1-10 • Storm Drain Improvements o Extension of existing 42-inch storm drain pipe from Gerald Ford to Dinah Shore o Install 96-inch storm drain pipe north from Dinah Shore to the Retention basin • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation *.+ N"O • Traffic Signal at Portola Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Gateway Drive (North of Gerald Ford Drive to 35th Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication (North of "A" Street) • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main North of "A" street to 35th Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe north of "A" street to 35th Avenue. • Traffic Signal at Gateway Drive and 35th Avenue 35th Avenue (West of Monterey Avenue to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) • Full Street Improvements (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 54-inch thru 66-inch storm drain pipe East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Traffic Signal at 351h Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Dinah Shore Drive (south of 351h Avenue to Portola Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Street median and landscaping o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 10-inch sewer main from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 84-inch thru 96-inch storm drain pipe from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue I'*M En "A" Street (West of Monterey Avenue to Gateway Drive): • North Right of Way dedication • North Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 30-inch storm drain pipe from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive "B" Street (Dolce Avenue) (West of Gateway Drive to "C" Street): • Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main "C" Street (South of 35`h Avenue to "B" Street): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from "B" Street to 351h Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe "I-10" Crossing (Sewer main upgrade of from 12-inch VCP to 18-inch Stainless Steel): • Sewer Improvement o Replace existing 12-inch VCP sewer main with 18-inch Stainless Steel pipe Retention Basin • Acquisition of Retention Basin • Retention Basin Modification o Reshape retention basin o Add slope protection o Construct pipe outlet structure On rn INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 GENERAL COMMENTS The public improvements identified in the project description attached hereto as Exhibit A, along with the future commercial and residential projects that will be served by those improvements, were substantially identified and discussed in the General Plan and Environmental Impact Report (SCH #2003051103). Many of the mitigation measures identified in the General Plan Final EIR, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, will be applicable to the Project and future associated developments. The General Plan mitigation measures are identified in the attached Exhibit B, and are incorporated herein by reference, to the extent that each applies to this Project. 1. 2. AESTHETICS The project site elevation falls southwest to northwest by approximately 80 feet. The combination of grading design, landscaping and low profile architecture for future development will preserve views of the regions scenic mountains from surrounding properties. The Project will involve installation of street lighting and incidental lighting associated with future residential and commercial development. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AES-1. The lighting funded and constructed by this Project shall comply with the City's Municipal Code Chapter 24.16 regulations regarding lighting levels and horizontal and vertical light trespass. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES The Project site does not contain any agricultural resources, therefore no significant impacts will occur. 3. AIR QUALITY The undeveloped site is currently covered by large sand dunes which, in conjunction with other such landforms located in the general area, are the primary source of blow sand contributing to periodic violations of PM10 standards in the area. Construction activities associated with installation of the improvements to be funded and constructed through the Project have the potential to increase the amount of blow sand and PM10. The INITIAL STUDY RWVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISf SSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 strict compliance with the City's Fugitive Dust Ordinance Chapter 24.12 and the 2002 Coachella Valley State Implementation Plan prepared by AQMD during construction and the ultimate stabilization of the sand dunes resulting from future development will reduce potential impacts on the site and areas downwind. Further, upon completion of the future developments planned for the area, increases in landscaped and otherwise covered ground will reduce the amount of blow sand generated by winds over the site. The potential impact of construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project can be mitigated to a less than significant level by adherence to the following mitigation. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AQ-1. During stabilization of the sand dunes and construction activity, all contractors shall comply with the City's Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance, set forth in Chapter 24.12 of the Municipal Code and the 2002 Coachella State Implementation Plan prepared by the Air Quality Management District. 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The project site is within the development fee area designated by the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan and HCP designed to protect critical sand dune habitat for the Fringe -Toed Lizard and associated dune flora and fauna. The General Plan EIR acknowledges that, in 1985, ten Coachella Valley cities, including the City of Palm Desert, adopted the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), which established a preserve for the species of approximately 18,038 acres. (General Plan EIR at p. III, 105-106.) Further, the biological study completed for the General Plan concludes that "[s]and sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan do not need surveys to detect the presence of the fringe -toed lizard." And that payment of the mitigation fee of $600/acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan." (Palm Desert General Plan Update Biological Report, Lawrence F. Lapre, PhD, June 29, 2001, at p. 23.) MITIGATION Mitigation Measure BIO-1. The $600.00 per acre mitigation fee required by the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan shall be paid before lands to which the fee applies are disturbed. i; INITIAL STUDY E%41RONMENTAL CHECKLIST DIS SSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 5. CULTURAL RESOURCES The project site is located on a large, dry sand dune ridge, and the site contains no evidence of cultural resources. Based on the Palm Desert General Plan EIR cultural resources survey, the area is not within areas designated as "high sensitivity for prehistoric or archaeological resources" or "relatively high sensitivity for historic structures or archaeological resources from pre-1940 era." (See General Plan Draft EIR, Exhibit III- 14.) Therefore, no significant impacts in this regard are expected. 6. GEOLOGY AND SOILS The project site is four miles from the San Andreas fault, therefore, like all other property in the region, it is subject to the potential for ground shaking. The General Plan EIR identifies the site as low risk for liquefaction. (See General Plan EIR, Exhibit III-10.) Compliance with mitigation measures set for in the General Plan will mitigate any impacts to less than significant levels. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure GEO-1. The proposed Project and future development will comply with the City's grading and building codes and implement the following mitigation measures listed in the General Plan EIR as applicable to the Project or components thereof: A. The City shall establish and maintain an information database containing maps and other information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazards occurring within the City boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area. B. Proper structural engineering, which takes into account the forces that will be applied to structures by anticipated ground motions, shall provide mitigation for ground shaking hazards. Seismic design shall be in accordance with the most recently adopted editions of the Uniform Building Code and/or International Building Code, and the seismic design parameters of the Structural Engineers' Association of California. C. Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment on the valley floor shall include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address settlement, liquefaction, and collapsible soils. These hazards can generally be mitigated by proper excavation, compaction and foundation design. 3 INITIAL STUDY /IRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading and building codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control devices, overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional groundwater conservation measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from groundwater overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in conformance with the latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at the time construction occurs. Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate watering of soils prior to and during grading, and limiting the area of dry, exposed soils during grading (see also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rock falls and/or slope failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards. H-1. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H-2. During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site. Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or more below the existing site grade. I. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soils engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, organic material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescribed by the soils engineer and watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. El INITIAL STUDY bwVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISMSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 J. Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to not less than 90% of the laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557-78. The project soils engineer shall observe the placement of fill and take sufficient tests to verify the moisture content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. In -place soil density should be determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method D-1556-64 (74), or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and Safety Department. K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary cuts for retaining walls or utility installations in excess of 5 feet may result in gross failure of the cut and may possibly damage equipment and injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected during grading to provide additional recommendations for safe construction. L. Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Fill slope surfaces shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum density by either over -filling and cutting back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical methods. M. Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are recommended for the support of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structures must be evaluated based on structure design and on -site soil conditions. N. Positive site drainage shall be established during finish grading. Finish lot grading shall include a minimum positive gradient of 2% away from structures for a minimum distance of three (3) feet and a minimum gradient of 1 % to the street or other approved drainage course. O. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This 5 INITIAL STUDY OWIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The Project site is vacant land, and there is no evidence to suggest that hazardous materials are or have been present on the site. Further, the types of uses contemplated for the site, and specifically the improvements to be undertaken by the Project, do not have the potential to have any significant impacts in this regard. 9.. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The Project will result in, and enable, creation of impervious surfaces and which would reduce the amount of percolation and change the site's drainage conditions. The Project envisions the construction of a number of drainage improvements so that the drainage needs of future development of the site are met. The Project contemplates construction of drainage facilities and retention basins that will accommodate a 100-year storm. Because the Project involves these drainage improvements that will accommodate future service needs, no significant impact will result, and there is no need for further mitigation. 10. LAND USE PLANNING The Project's improvements, as well as the future residential/commercial uses which they will serve, are consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan, and will assist in the General Plan's implementation. 11. MINERAL RESOURCES There are no known mineral resources in the vicinity of the Project, therefore no significant impact is expected to occur. n. INITIAL STUDY E`%WIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCb3SION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 12. NOISE The improvements contemplated by the Project are generally not noise producing, and therefore, no significant impacts are expected in that respect. Construction activities associated with the improvements will generate noise, but due to the general lack of sensitive receptors in the area, and the fact that construction noise will be temporary, the impacts will not be significant. The project will be subject to City ordinances controlling construction hours. 13. POPULATION AND HOUSING The Project improvements are designed to serve a mix of residential and commercial uses which will help balance employment and housing demands in the University Park area. Further, the improvements will enable growth and development consistent with the General Plan for the area. Therefore, the growth accommodated by the improvements has already been accounted for in regional models that rely on the City's General Plan, and no impacts beyond those already considered by the General Plan EIR will occur. 14. PUBLIC SERVICES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on public services, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the current system of mitigation fees, including fire facility, school, park, child care, transportation, drainage, etc., in addition to general fund and Redevelopment Agency revenues, are adequate to maintain the current level of public services without significant environmental impacts. 15. RECREATION Future residential development that will be served by the Project improvements will increase public recreation demand. However, the improvements include a number of recreational facilities that will serve these future residents as well as customers and employees at the commercial and other non-residential land uses. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure REC-1. Construction of a 10-acre neighborhood park developed in conjunction with a Palm Springs Unified School District elementary/middle school meets the General Plan goal of five acres per 7 INITIAL STUDY E WIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISGVISSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 1,000 projected population and will address potential impacts of the future development enabled through the Project Improvements. 16. TRANSPORTATIONITRAFFIC Commercial and residential development facilitated by the project will generate significant new vehicle trips onto the regional system, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the future development. The Project includes the completion of all necessary long-term General Plan Circulation Element street improvements to insure that traffic is distributed in a safe and efficient manner with Level of Service D or better as specified in the General Plan EIR. Further, the future development has the potential to impact regional transportation systems. However, those impacts will be mitigated to less than significant impacts through payment of the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). During construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project, there is the potential for short term impacts to transportation and traffic due to street closure needs, including the potential for detours. This short term impact will be mitigated to less than significance through preparation of street closure and traffic plans which shall be reviewed and approved by the City's Public Works Department prior to commencement of any activities within a public right-of-way. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. The construction process will ensure the structural integrity of the roadway and not impact traffic flow. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure TRANS-1. Future development shall pay Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF) as required by that program to mitigate project impacts throughout the region. Mitigation Measure TRANS-2. Prior to commencement of any improvement project within a public right-of-way, a traffic control and safety plan shall be prepared and submitted to the City's Public Works Department (or California Department of Transportation, if applicable) for review and approval. The traffic control and safety plan shall strive to enable efficient circulation in the vicinity of the Project to the extent possible. 17. UTILITIES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on some utility services, however many of the improvements INITIAL STUDY ENw4RONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCvP4SION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the applicants for future development will pay the necessary connection and service fees which will offset demand impacts. 18. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE H a) The improvement Project has the potential to degrade habitat for the Fringe -toed lizard, however, through mitigation fees that fund and establishment and maintenance of a permanent preserve through and approved Habitat Conservation Plan, the does not rise to the level of significance. Further, the improvements associated with the Project do not have the potential to substantially degrade the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species or cause such species to drop below self-sustaining levels. For the reasons stated above there is no evidence in support of finding this significance threshold met for this Project. b) The Project will assist in implementation of the City's long-term General Plan for the area, therefore the Project does not achieve short- term goals to the detriment of long term goals. c) The improvements proposed by the Project, when considered in conjunction with the future planned development, will not have a cumulatively significant effect. The Project and future developments are consistent with the General Plan which contemplates this growth. Therefore, the impacts of the Project have already been contemplated by the City's General Plan, as well as the regional plans which rely on the projections of the General Plan, such as transportation plans and air quality plans. Cumulative impacts of this Project together with other projects, will not be cumulatively significant. 9 Land Use r patibility_*itigation Measures=, �.r+ TN/City of Palm Desert Section III _Existing Conditions Impacts Draft General Plan EIR Summary of Impacts pacts and Mitigation Measures Impacts to the City of Palm Desert and adjacent land uses as implementation of the proposed General Plan are not anticipated to use plan incorporates a mix of land uses thoughtfully be signd with the adoption and with the surrounding environment. Spatial Organization significant. The proposed land y developed to be compatible with one another and involved logical transition of adjoining residential densitiesfromarease lands within the General Plan study area Proposed land use plan recognizes the need to insulate sensitive land from areas of transportation noise by establishing t of lower to higher densities. The park buffer between residential areas and the Interst uses (residences, schools, etc.) a buffer of less sensitive uses, such as the business residential areas occur in close proximityto co ate-10/Union Pacific corridor. transportation access. The to prk planning rcial developments and major roads for rconvenientg close to commercial and business area Provides compliment employment opportunities, but buffer Park development from a land uses located pnts f that can provide convenient shopping and arterial roads and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Plan is also Santa Rosa Mountains and other conservation noise and traffic associated with nearby responsive to the need to preserve the areas as undeveloped open spaces. In general, the proposed General Plan will increase th Providing additional lands for hi a number of housing units in the City, b is expected to be Primarily and medium residential density development. The housingY y generated in the University Park planning area. The proposed Gene ral Plan also demonstrates increases in industrial, open space, and public/quasi-public increase reduction in commercial acreages. P c/quasi-public acreages and bows a The proposed General Plan constitutes a considerable increase i Planning area. Additional homes will result from conversion n the number of housing structures ' ace-Rur (I the existing General Plan, to Desert Estates 1 n of O in the residential increases will result from ( du/10 acre) in the proposed General acre. under located north of the I-10 freeway. Proposed lands for medium to high density development,plan. Other industrial and o Y The proposed General plan also results in the decrease of commercial, pen space acreages. However, it will slightly increase Public/quasi- public acreages. 3• Mitigatioa Measures No significant land use incompatibilities are anticipated to re of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan, and mitigation measures suit from the adoption and implementation area of concern. The General Plan incorporates a wide range of o• are not necessary Of which will address land use compatibility issues as they to address this Potential changes in land use are adequately it a Policies and programs, implementation implemented. arise. However, in order to assure that y assessed, the following mitigation measures shall be A• Individual proposed projects especiallynearby those involving a crux of residential and other uses a the project review y or adjacent to sensitive lands or uses, shall be fully evaluated d process to assure that all land use compatibility issues are ad s mitigated. during dressed and III-17 Land Use Compatibi�,y—Traffic/Circulation TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EM Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. The City shall require a noise impact assessment and mitigation plan which minimizes impacts to outdoor living space and assures a maximum interior noise level of 45 CNEL, from all fure residential development occurring on lands within an existing 65 dBA or higher noise contour. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall identify potential adverse of unacceptable noise exposures, evaluate and assure the effectiveness of proposed mitigation programs, and assure construction is in accordance with approved noise mitigation plans. Said plan shall be approved by the Community Development Department as part of its review, and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation program shall be demonstrated as part of the Building Department's inspection process. Results shall be recorded and maintained with building inspection records. Responsible Parties: City Community Development and Building Departments B• Traffic/Circulation Introduction In conjunction with the preparation of the Draft General Plan, a region -based, City/study area -focused traffic study was also prepared? A wide variety of data were assembled to measure existing traffic conditions on the various roadways studied. A focused version of the CVATS Traffic Model was used to analyse existing conditions and to project future conditions for the Preferred Alternative General Plan, as well as for the current General Plan and two other alternative plans. The following discussion provides some essential background information to facilitate a better understanding of the analysis, which follows. Levels of Service The capacity of a segment of roadway or an intersection is typically characterized as "Level- of - Service". As gauged for mid -block travel, Level -of -Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure describing the character and efficiency of the flow of traffic. For intersections, the LOS is defined quantitatively, as the number of seconds the vehicle is delayed in passing through the intersection. LOS includes a range of alphabetical connotations "A" through "F', used to characterize roadway operating conditions. LOS A represents the best/free-flow conditions and LOS F indicates the worst/system failure. Intersections represent the most constrained portion of the roadway network. The Highway Capacity Manual expresses the Level of Service at an intersection in terms of delay or waiting time to get through the various intersection approaches. For signalized intersections, average total delay per vehicle is used to determine the LOS. Intersection LOS is defined quantitatively in Table III-7 below. A more detailed discussion of LOS values can be found in the General Plan Traffic Study in the EIR Technical Appendices. Mid -block Levels of Service are represented as volume to capacity ratios, or vehicle demand divided by roadway capacity. In general terms, as the ratio approaches 1.00 or maximum capacity, the roadway approaches LOS F. However, it is important to keep in mind that for mid -block, the LOS is meant to z Palm Desert General Plan Update Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5, 2003. III-18 Land Use Coupatib'-Zty—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Measur` w TN/City of Palm Desert ' Draft General Plan M Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures All -Weather Access Major drainages that affect roadway access both within the City and the planning area include the Whitewater River, Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, Deep Canyon Stormwater Channel, San Pascual Channel, Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel, Thousand Palms Flood Control Project and Thousand Palms Canyon Wash, cove neighborhoods and in areas north of Highway 111. Whitewater River• The Whitewater River is the principal drainage affecting all-weather access in the City, with currently all-weather crossings existing at only Monterey Avenue. Crossings of the than 100-year) storm flows. The Whitewater River Crossing at Bob Hope Drive in Rancho MiWhitewater River at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are currently improved to pass through lower (less rage is also all-weather. In addition, all-weather access is also available across the Whitewater River at Washington Street and Miles Avenue, in La Quinta and Indian Wells, respectively. The City of Palm Desert has plans to design and build all-weather crossing across the Whitewater River at both Portola Avenue and Cook Street as funding becomes available. Based upon the availability of existing all- weather crossings along the Whitewater River, improvements at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are warranted. Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel In the planning area, this drainage facility is designed to run along the south side of the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Existing and planned improvements will convey flows under elevated roadways/approaches to I-10 interchanges. No significant access issues are associated with this drainage facility either now or in the future. Thoud Pal L The community of Thousand Palms and the area generally north of I-10 is subj sanect to both sheetflow and channelized flooding from drainage originating in the Indio Hills. The Thousand Palms Canyon Wash conveys flows, which originate north of the Indio Hills and along the south -facing slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the Coachella -wide flood Valley Water District recently completed design analysis and project approvals for an area control project, which will protect the vast majority of homes and businesses in the community of Thousand Palms from upstream flooding. 3• Mitigation Measures As discussed above, intersections constitute the most constrained portion of the roadway network in the City and balance of the planning area. The following table provides a detailed analysis of the improvements (mitigation measures), both those already programmed and new/additional improvements that are needed to provide acceptable levels of service. It should be noted that although improvements are cited that will bring some intersections to LOS C, these improvements are not needed in most instances in order to achieve acceptable levels of service. III-46 O � � U H � c cis C C U a W I b CO) a r-I u w tad E f1 41 41 tt�qq co td � a 0 b co 60 4.4 41 o> a wAuw U U wAu u u 7 7U U A U U U U rz m u u U U AUU U U UUUUUU M �i nj M s N cn;n M M en ' � � �t yj n o0 �O [� l� en'WW1 M M N M cn M N N C14 M N N M 00 V O A N N N M M -+ N M� C M N ^ M N N A O o n O o ^ ~ o� n M M M O N M cn M M N N N O A O r N N N a 3 N N O O O �? � V•1 co .^A ~-^y.^A � N M N M M N N .r r \ N ; ^ A O N N N enN N ~ o to n ^ en en -: py Q p M en tM h 1n In •-+ ►-� cn en 'Con cnM Q ►CJ 00 O— N v) cn p N N N h .0 ~ N N N N N N n cn M M 1n 1n �4 'c M M M M M M 0 0 Q O ►.� N N O p h O N N N H to N N N N N 2 .. 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Qpq u+� �,�•� � 'v �� st �, U x w uj • r �'j Q+ 01) o o p p 3 UAUAUU r.r AVAuuu uaouu Auu wuwAUa h A U w g U U 0 o �auuuuAuuuqu Uaa y aDU UUU UUU WmAUUUUu 00 F _N OM v�UU N h M t+1 c� M et N �t M 1� -• O r N c� 'd• c+1 c� t+1 -r to N N l� .r -r �� �� �''� O� M M M M M VO en 'i 'Cf M •- H h h Ci 00 O0 M M vi e} M t�'1 N �O 0p •-•i M p ri h .r M M N M M M M M en � M .may ti M � M� t+1 h 00 �C 00 M -� --� 1� M •-•� M M M N to M cn N N M `o ,n O O N N M M M N N M 'er M M M h "� ""'� O O O ...c "+ .•+ .r ..y y N N �O M M~ M M M N ..i -4 0 0 0� M M M M k O ° N N W N N N N N N N N tn N N O O p p N N �o N N N N N N O M M M M M N N M M M M M M "' O •-, "c ..r p .-c N M M M N N N O O O N N M M M N N N .r -� h h h M M M M M M M M M M M M O M h h 0 C O N N N O M M M M N N N N N N N N N N N N V� to M M M M M M a O -4 "' -ti " .r N N N N N N N N N N N tn M M CO) M M M M M M M M M p M ,.,, N .-r e O ~ .-r ""+ ..r .r •'� ""� ^+ .� .-� .-r M V O N N N N N N N N N N N p N M M M M M M N N N M N 44 N r� W FF+[y�Ey+Ey+F�E�HFE�-�F�• � � F�FH v� � O d � D � a o otu 3 v yCU y GoVbVowUU3v�����1 R1 r td y 'r Cn °U x� U3 00 ~O -c -ram u x > > a 3 w33x IT El Al � a ° o ly 00 o � •� Aq Land Use Compatibility—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation M :ures IWO, TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts andMitigation aft GeneralMeaasan ureess Mitigation via Roadway/Intersection Improvements As set forth in the Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan, the City shall make good faith effort to assure that intersections operate at LOS D or better. The improvements set forth is Table III-15, above, are mitigation measures designed to reduce Post 2020 m levels of insignificance (LOS D). The improvements include the provisiot@oflnew or additional ic is to lanes and through lanes, and in a few instances limitations on pedestrian green -time or access on certain legs of intersections. None of the prescribed limitations on pedestrian access are a si nifica impediment to pedestrian use and are located at intersections with the highest volumes and widest nt sections. est cross On -Going Monitoring and Analysis The programmatic level of the General Plan study suggests that on -going and Project -specific traffic monitoring is required to assure adequate levels of service in he long-term. The City shall periodically monitor conditions along roadway segments where General Plan level analysis Pe y traffic congestion. In these areas of the roadway network intersection and progression analysis shall levels of be conducted to advance infrastructure planning to address areas of existing and anticipated traffic s congestion. p Mitigation via Alternative Modes of Transportation With the limited exception of the consideration of busing of students to schools, the traffic impact analysis conducted for the General Plan update does not consider the effects of the use of mass transit, biking or pedestrian -accessible land use planning on traffic volumes or roadway operations. As noted the General Plan Traffic Study: ted in "While the model is not intended to reflect vehicle trip reduction characteristics associated with the benefits of such a system combined with the proper mix of land uses, an especially well developed non -motorized transportation system could potentially reduce vehicle traffic ' substantially. "4 The General Plan Traffic Study also cites the continuing imbalance between the rod attraction of trips in the University Park planning area, caused by an abundancep action and of commercial, institutional and industrial trip attractors and the limited number of sources of home -based (residences). The study cites the unquantifiable but substantial potential for vehicle tripreduction fromthe compact mix of land uses, which promotes the use of buses, bike aths a coon from p and pedestrian access. BusBus—Ac--a As set forth in the general Plan Circulation Element, the City shall continue to with the Sunline Transit Authority to expand and optimize he use of bus transit hrou to and cooperate of bus routes, the construction of user-friendly bus stops and shelters, and through rough the expansion between Sunline and major potential users, including the colleges, retail and employmentugh joint ventures centers. City of Palm Desert General Plan Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5 2003 . III-51 Land Use Compatibility-Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Measv s *Mpo*awe TN/City of Palm De Section III - Draft General Plan BIR Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Golf Cart and Bike Path The City golf cart path network is also a Potentially City shall continue to enhance the access�b hty Oand us ocant alternative mode of transportation. the greatest extent practicable. f the golf cart and bicycle path networTh e k to Mitigation via Implementation of General Plan Policies a The Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan Programs twenty-nine (29) programs, which are designed to enhance the o lam includes fourteen 14 the transportation system serving ( ) Policies and the planning area. Policies and Programs addressf all as monitoring and management of traffic volumes and Operating aspects of improvements to maintain acceptable levels of service. the on -going g conditions, and the timing of required Summary of Mitigation The Draft Genera] plan, this EIR and the general Plan Traffic concrete/prescriptive actions and measures that are expected Stud with the implementation of the proposed General plan y Provide both programmatic and to reduce transportation impacts associated the existing various regional transportation initiatives enor levels of significance. In conjunction w' Performance of transportation systems serving the City and I with coordinated through the City and CVAG, the continued thoughtful integration panning area can be further enhanced. The motorized means of transportation. Controlling willalsos increase o Preserve capacity and limit the costs associated with ex Opportunities for mass transit and non - motorized access onto major arterial roadways will also serve to expanded roadway infrastructure. Mitigation Monitoring(Reporting Program A. The City shall review and update the master lam o rights -Of -way P f roads, including standards for ultimate y and pavement width, and provide a schedule for securing constructing improvements consistent with the projected needs and. -Standards Circulation Element and Pro get forth a n the Responsible Parties: citygrin �• Department Council, Community Development Department Public Works B. The City shall establish and maintain ongoing Planning and en g consultation and coordination with adjoining engineering staffs of adjoining cities and transportation Planning and implement effective means of preserving and improvingc Coordination efforts may include synchronized signalization agencies to study restriction of access, construction of additional travel capacity along major roadways. and improvements to critical intersections. consolidation of access drives and and turning lanes, raised median islands, Responsible Parties: Public Works Department, Community Adjoining Cities, CVAG, Riverside County, CalTrans Development Department, C• The City shall periodically evaluate the operating ng conditions at each of the Interstate-10 interchanges servingP the City, including Monterey Avenue, Cook Street, future Portola Avenue needed improvements.: Public Works Department, Co to responsible agencies regarding Responsible Partiesg CalTrans, Riverside County, CVAG Community and Washington Street, and shall make recommendationsto development Department, I` L -lq a a ■ III-52 Land Use Compatibility—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation - asures NNW` TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures D. The City shall pro -actively consult and coordinate with CVAG, SCAG and CalTrans and represent the City in transportation planning meetings to assure that City policies, programs and strategies are given full consideration in resolving regional transportation issues affecting the community. Responsible Agency: City Council, Community Development Department, Public Works Department, CVAG, SCAG, CalTrans E. The City shall continue to pro -actively promote the mass transit system expansion and innovation through ongoing consultation and coordination with the SunLine Transit Agency and CVAG. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency, CVAG F. The City shall continue to consult and coordinate with the SunLine Transit Agency and encourage the development of rideshare and other alternative, high occupancy transit programs for employers with sufficient numbers of employees, and for individuals seeking to locate potential rideshare partners. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency G. The City monitor the effectiveness of land use planning proposals that integrate the assemblage of land uses, optimizes nearby interactions, reduces the need for travel outside the neighborhood, and shortens trips to work, shopping, public services and public park facilities. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Redevelopment Agency, Chamber of Commerce H. The City monitor the effectiveness of its master plan of bicycle -ways and multi -use trails, including secure bicycle and golf cart storage facilities, and other support facilities which increase bicycle and golf cart use. Responsible Parties: Community Development Departments, Public Works Department L The City shall monitor the planning and development of all-weather crossings as part of the community's Master Drainage Plan and its implementation. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Water District J. The City shall periodically review roadway design specifications, design standards and guidelines for public and private streets, and their effectiveness at meeting existing and anticipated demand, reducing traffic speeds in neighborhoods, and facilitating safe and efficient use of bicycles and other alternative modes of transportation. Responsible Parties: Community development department, Public Works Department, Planning Commission, City Council g III-53 Soils ane 'eology—Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measuraft General Plan es 2. Project Impacts 14 The buildout of the General Plan will increase the potential for a number of geologic and seismic hazards within the General Plan study area. The construction of all types of structures in v in could expose persons and property to hazards relating to subsidence, slope i roc g teen p seismic hazards. nstability and rock fall, and Soils The General Plan study area includes lands adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Indio the Little San Bernardino Mountains, where slope failure and rock fall could occur. Hills and development potential exists for the southern portion of the City,which Limited Space land uses. In the northern portion of the planning area, residential development for Open close proximity to slopes. Development in these areas should include the P could occur in analysis to assess the potential impacts of rock Preparation of site specific P ck fall and slope stability prior to construction of structures for projects which might be down -gradient from such hazard areas, as shown in Exhibit III-12 Alluvial fan deposits and blowing sand deposits throughout the General Plan study area are vulnerable to collapse and/or hydrocompaction. When saturated, these soils could lose cementation an damage to structures and foundations that are built upon them. In areas ro ose d cause specific studies must be conducted to evaluate the collapse potential. P P d for development, site - Subsidence in the Coachella Valley is closely associated with groundwater overdraft. Structures sensitive to slight changes in elevation, such as canals, sewers and drainage improvements sensitive to the effects of subsidence and may be damaged if subsidence occurs. are generally subsidence and its potential impacts will require a regional approach to Mitigation of recharge. P groundwater conservation and The northern portion of the planning area is highly susceptible to wind erosion. Increased and surface disruption resulting from grading and construction loosens soils and increases dust and other small particles in the air. However, development associated with new development will contribute to the stabilization the amount of In the long-term, the installation of landscaping requires the preparation of erosion control plans as part of the t1 fdrifting sand. The City currently specific mitigation for this hazard with each development. Project -specific erosion co grading Permit process, providing site - must continue to be implemented to protect on -site soils. The potentially adverse health1 measures associated with suspended dust and blowsand are further discussed in Section III-H Air impacts Quality. Seismicity Two Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones occur within the General Plan area will be subject to significant ground acceleration and potential damage from significant earthquakes area. In addition, the within the next 50 years. variety of localized, but no less destructive hazards such as urban firesdam flood Inundation, and can cause a failures, and toxic chemical releases. Smaller structures could be shifted from their foundations and Earthquakes can trigger slope instability, liquefaction, settlement and cause gas leeks and fires. III-69 Soils and Geo" •y Mitigation Mures `00 TN/City of Palm Desert In - Existing Conditions, Impacts andh itigation Measuraft General plan es The greatest hazard with smaller structur�Secfion sthat of unreinforce ` identified and caused to be retrofitted four such structures. The Or d mason adopted the 1997 Uniform Building tCode Masonry buildings. The City has or later versions of the UB y DePnent of Building and Safety (�C). New development in the City will be subject to this C and/or International Building Code, and should be able to re earthquakes without collapsing, although structural ' damage could occur. resist major Liquefaction Liquefaction hazards in the City and planning areas are considered Portion of the planning area, in a small area between the Indio Hill Mountains. This planning could develop with limited re ' generally low, except in the northern Plan. The City should require site specific liquefactionesidential development with buildout of the General sand the Little San Bernardino si Mitigation m asures should liquefaction ac on be co development is proposed in these areas. The analysis will include miti Properties, be considered likely on these A. to C. E. F. 3• Mitigation Measures The City shall establish and maintain an information database c information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazard occurring within the City containing boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area, s g maps and other Proper structural engineering, which takes into account the force structures by anticipated ground motions, shall provide Mitigation s that will ki applied to Seismic design shall be in accordance with the most recently adopted Building Code and/or International Buildingg t�°n for ground shaking hazards. Structural Engineers' Association of CaliforniCode, and the seismic design editions of the Uniform g parameters of the Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address and collapsible soils. These hazards can generallybe on the valley floor shall settlement, liquefaction, and foundation design. mitigated by proper excavation, compaction The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as art of codes, and shall assure the implementation of miti hazards, such as the use of rethese inforcing steel i fp its grading and building Mitigation measures which overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soi oundations, drainage conitrol idevices soils. , The City shall continue to suppo measures in an effort trt and encourage local and regional o mitigate potential subsidence resulting from round water overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F g groundwater conservation All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management P1 latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at an in conformance with the Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated the time construction occurs. soils prior to and during grading,g ted by adequate watering of also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H)ng the area of dry, exposed soils durin g grading (see I r I I a F III-70 Soils and Geology Mitigation 1 ;ures a ■ a IN I I i TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Conditiaft General PlEIR ons, Impacts andMitigac on Meas Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rcklopes, site -specific failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards.falls and/or slope All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces analysis prior to any development approval for the property. ►and to submit this During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed f receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexca fof rom areas that are to Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation vated and exported from the sof the ite. more below the existingsite on to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or grade. I• All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved b th engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches ' Y e individual project soils shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as re vegetation, organic in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil watered or aerated as necessary P scribed by the soils engineer and ary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. J• Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557- engineer shall observe the placement of fill and to not less than 90% of the content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. ke sufficient tests to verify the moisture 78' The project soils determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method it density should be or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and SafetyDepartment. D-1556-64 (74), K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined Partment. Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). excess of 5 feet may result in gross fai ure of the cut may retaining walls or utility installations in injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected duringY possibly damage equipment and recommendations for safe construction. grading to g provide additional 1- Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizo shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum densitntb al teavertical). Fill slope surfaces back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical method Y Y her over -filling and cutting M. s. Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structure recommended for the support structure design and on -site soil conditions. s must be evaluated based on N. Positive site drainage shall be established during finis minimum positive gradient of 2% away from structuresfor a inininish lot grading shall include a and a minimum gradient of 1% to the street or other approved drainage distance of three (3) feet age course. III-71 Soils and Get gy Mitigation M4911ures `mo TN/City of Palm Desert aft General PlanIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Meaasu es O. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be Properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved I Pp granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill shall comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting A. During any project site preparation, the City Engineer and Building Department staff shall conduct site inspections to ensure compliance with applicable City ordinances and conditions of approval, as well as any additional erosion control mitigation measures specified in this document. i' Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Building Department, developer, grading contractor. B. Subsequent to preparation of final development plans and specifications, but prior to grading and' construction, the foundation plans should be reviewed by the City Engineers to verify compatibility with site geotechnical conditions and conformance with recommendations ' contained herein. The need for additional subsurface exploration will be determined on a project by project basis. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. ' C. When appropriate, rough grading of a project site shall be performed under geological and engineering observation of the geological consultant and/or the City Engineer. Rough grading includes, but is not limited to, grading of overexcavation cuts, fill placement, and excavation of temporary and permanent cut slopes. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. D. As determined appropriate by the City Engineer and consulting geologist, the geotechnical consultant and/or the City Engineer shall perform the following observations during site adin and construction of foundations to verify or modify, if necessary, conclusions and recommendations in the project's geotechnical report: Hydrology IN Section III —Existing Conditions, 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. A TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR and Mitigation Measures Observation of all grading operations. Geologic observation of all cut slopes. Observation of all key cuts and fill benching. Observation of all retaining wail back cuts, during and follow' Observation of all surface and subsurface drainage systems. Observation of backfill wedges and subdrains for mg completion or excavation, Observation of pre -moistening of subgrade soils andning walls. placement of sand cushion and vapor barrier beneath the slab. Observation of all foundation excavations for the structure or retaining walls prior to placing forms and reinforcing steel. Observation of compaction of all utility Responsible Parties; City Engineer and/or geotechnical cons ultant. D. Hydrology I- Existing Conditions Hydrology is significantly influenced by the and climate of a particular locale. The Coachella Valley and the City of Palm Desert occur in a low desert basin geography isolate the region from moist and cool maritime air masses c flanked by local mountain ranges that subtropical desert climate. The desert floor receives a verycoming on shore to the west, creating inches per year. In some years, no measurable rainfall has to mean annual rainfall, ranging from 4 g a during the winter months, between December and March. T n reported. In general, precipitation � to 6 receive rainfall that increase with elevation. The mountainscurs stud he surrounding mountain a es y area are generally cooler, with about a 5 F and u P generally elevation. Daytime temperatures in the valley reach u upper elevations of the General Plan drop in temperature with eve ry and winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing, p to 1250F occasionally durin th summer increase in g miner season Although the Coachella Valley has a low mean average rain generated by occasional high-intensitearly fall.y thunderstorms and tropical late summer g fall, the region is susceptible to as floods resulting in subs antial reduction of groundDry surfaces can become saturated b storms, °ccumn9 primarily during asphalt and other imperviousPercolation rates and increasingy intense and excessive rainfall, surfaces associated with development also contribute Potential landslides, and debris or runoff. Permeable soils covered by soils are weighed down b mudflows can occur in hill or areasountainous rainwater runoff. extending from y water. Flash flooding in the Coachella Valley is g neralllimiters saturated mountain canyons, floodways and floodplains adjacent to Y limited to washes drainages. Flooding velocities and spread across wide vial unchannelns can e partreas. d g g because floodwaters move atlhi h fans, the hazard Y ama in Posed b ized areas. Given that most of the City is situated on alluvial y flooding is significant if not mitigated. Flooding can also be an attribute of unusually w the snow, pack on Y arm conditions occurring in earl s Coachella adjacent mountains to melt rapidly. Valley originates from snow P y. In fact, nearlyy spring which cause Bernardino and C melting all a the surface water in the San Jacinto Mountains. The water is us allylopes of absoredtby San Bernardino ,Little San by porous sands and gravels on III-73 Hydrology Project *,.,+acts 14 100 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts Potential flooding problems in the City of Palm Desert, its sphere -of -influence and planning area are associated with storm flows in the Whitewater River and its tributaries, flooding on the alluvial fans, and to runoff associated with the Indio Hills and the foothills of the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains. Ongoing growth and urbanization in the General Plan study area will result in the creation of additional impervious surfaces such as paved roads, parking lots, and sidewalks which can cause an increase in the amount of runoff generated. Since the bedrock formation of the hills and mountains surrounding and occurring in the General Plan study area have low permeability, heavy runoff from these areas during intense storms may be inevitable. Future development facilitated by the proposed General Plan could also potentially alter and/or disturb existing drainage patterns, which can result in the accumulation of considerable amounts of debris in the event of a major storm. Large developments may incorporate a network of channels which can include golf courses, reenbelts ag other open space areas to convey and collect on -site runoff. g nd NThe proposed General Plan utilizes land use planning as an effective strategy hazards and protect lives and properties in areas subject to flooding. The adoption anagandimplementation of the proposed General Plan will facilitate the regulated development of various land uses and roadways, and will put in effect policies, programs and mitigation measures which di rectly the flood hazards facing the City. The foremost goal of the proposed General Plan is to protect the addr eneral health, safety and welfare of the community from potential flood and associated hazards. Its focus includes the evaluation of the potential for and extent of major future floodin with FEMA in the redesignation of the 100-year flood plains within the Genera Planys ud coordinate with Plan also calls for the protection of groundwater resources from polluted runoff by implementing e NPDES permitting process. The proposed Plan acknowledges and addresses the need for and availability the of adequate access and evacuation routes in the event of a major community disaster or threat. iltty Proposed General Plan aims to protect the community for flood hazards, it has also recognized thatlthere are opportunities for the provision of open space and multiple uses, wildlife, Pedestrian and equestrian corridors within major drainages. In general, the implementation and adoption of the Proposed not anticipated substantial adverse hydrological impacts. Through thoughtful p a ningeneral Plantand coordination to result in land use development intensities are regulated and improvements and construction of new storm water facilities are identified. Moreover, the policies and plans of the proposed General Plan seek to establis enhance inter -agency planning cooperation, and facilitate the development of effective an hand ' effective local and regional drainage facilities. d cost- a. Mitigation Measures The City will continue to review and assess hydrology analyses on a project basis. The findings of these studies will be integrated into the project master drainage plans Project -by appropriately, and the City will have the opportunity to require additional on -site flood control facilities as necessary. III-81 Hydrology Mitigati kleasures rr TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan M Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures The proposed General Plan intends to provide a comprehensive assessment of flooding and other hydraulic hazards in the community, and complete facilities and services effectively protecting lives and property. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented to reduce potential impacts associated with flooding and hydrology to less than significant levels: A. The City shall continue to update hydrologic conditions in the General Plan study area, and plan and pro -actively coordinate with other responsible agencies in upgrading the City's local and regional drainage system. B. The City shall implement the recommendations of the 1993 Master Drainage Plan study. Local regulations and guidelines shall be established which are consistent with the Master Plan of Drainage, direct the management of runoff, and provide for local drainage facilities support the effective use of regional drainage facilities. C. The City shall monitor and periodically update the Master Plan of Drainage to reflect changes in . local and regional drainage and flood conditions. D . The City shall develop, update and maintain Capital Improvement Plans for drainage management based upon the Master Drainage Plan project descriptions. E. The City shall place the highest priority for improvements to be implemented through the Master Drainage Plan on the following stormwater facilities: Whitewater River Channel, the Palm Valley Channel, the Deep Canyon Channel, and City of Indian Wells drainages located to the east of the City. F. The City shall evaluate the need for requiring an upgrade 100-year on -site retention in crucial locations of t e e eral Plan, as described by Mao a Drainage Plan. y Master G. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with responsible regional agencies in achieving multi- use agreements of major drainage facilities, including debris basins and flood control channes and designing safe and attractive recreational facilities, which are consistent with the functional requirements of these facilities. H. The City shall require all new development to incorporate gation measures, such as grading that prevents adverse drainage impact to adjacent properties, on -site retention of runoff, and the adequate siting of structures located within flood plains. I• The City will ensure that adequate, safe, all-weather crossings over drainage facilities and flood control channels are provided where necessary, and are maintained for access during major storm events. J. The City shall investigate the possibility of participating in the nationwide inventory and evaluation of bridges to address the potential impacts of bridge scour during major flood events. III-82 Wa 7 Quality/Resources TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts aDraft General Plan EIR nd Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Engineer shall regularly, and at least once a year, report to the City Council on ess made in developing local drainage plans and implementing drainage control Projects. The status of regional drainage plans and facilities affecting flood control in the City shall also be reported upon. p rted Responsible Agencies: City Engineer, City Council, CVWD B . The City Engineer shall review and approve studies plans for development proposals, and assure �their padequacyecific hydrolowiithyregard to and mitigation management and pollution control. g stormwater Responsible Agencies: City Engineer E. Water Quality/Resources 1• Existing Conditions Complex tectonic forces have created the unique physiographic form of the Coachella Valley. The region is characterized as a deep trough which has been progressively filled with s y have eroded from the surrounding mountains and hills. Over millions of years, this sediment -filled gr beat has functioned as a repository for rainfall, mountain runoff and occasional inundation fromin River. Although considered as one of the driest regions in the United State the Colorado achella Valley is underlain by a large groundwater basin that stores fresh water. This basinisidentified by the Department of Water Resources as the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin. The Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin extends from the surface drainage divide at the west end of San Gorgonio Pass to the Salton Sea on the southeast and includes over 690 square mil end Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin is divided into distinct subbasins and subareas. The subb The are the San Gorgonio Pass, Mission Creek, Whitewater River, and Desert Hot Springs. Subbasin boundaries are generally defined by seismic faults that restrict the lateral movement of groundwater, including the Mission Creek and Banning strands of the San Andreas Fault Zone. It is estimated that between the ground water elevations that occurred during the 1935-1936 season and a depth of 1,000 feet below the ' ground surface, the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin has a capacity for storing about 39,000 000 acre-feet of ground water." Whitewater River Subbasin The Whitewater River subbasin, the largest groundwater repository for the Coachella Valley, underlies the City of Palm Desert and a substantial portion of the valley floor. It is the rim repository serving the Palm Desert General Plan study area. In general, the Whitewater R groundwater iveextends from the junction of Interstate-10 and Highway 111, to the Salton Sea ap roximately 7 subbasin the east and encompasses approximately 400 square miles. The subbasin is bounded 0 miles to don the north and 11 Department of Water Resources, " 1Coachella Valley Investigation, Bulletin 108," es Ibid. , July 1964. III-83 Water Quall`-/Resources Mitigation }r+asures V"We TN/Cit�Miti of Palm Desert Section -Existing Conditions, Im Dneral Plan EIR Based on CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the pacts andaon Measures feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum uiPdou will result in usage of 312,562 acre expected to be conservative. t of all land uses, and is therefore Development of new projects in the General Plan study area will consumption. Implementation and buildout of the proposed General Plan result in gradual increases in water cumulative impacts of urban development on groundwater resources in the the continued reduction in the amount of will contribute to the Potable Coachella Valley, including groundwater in storage, As CVWD develops and implements the mitigation measures included in a number of conservation methods are likely to be implemented which �,il heir Water Management Plan, in the District's service area, The Management Plan's Preferred AI current overdraft conditions in the Mon term reduce the total consumption Valley. g ,and the accommodation of city bu ldouts throive results in the ughout of ghout the Impacts to water quality resulting t from the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are anticipated to be comparable to, or slightly current General Plan. Y greater than those resulting from the buildout of the Groundwater development facilitated by the propcontamination could also potentially result from the General Plan aim to reduce impacts oss ed General Plan. The water resources to less than Policies and programs of the proposed additional tate, local and P continued implementation of federal, ssignificant levels other applicable Pollution control standards. sure the 3• Mitigation Measures Water Conservation With increasing demands on limited water supplies in the C consumption are s priority. One of the best o Coachella Valley; efforts to reduce per capita water -efficient landscaping design and management. The City has adopted s Opportunities for water conservation is the implementation of Ordinance, as required by the California Water Conservation in Lands c Water -Efficient Landscape 4.04 of Palm Desert Municipal Code). The ordinance establishes mini requirements for all new and rehabilitated public and aping Act of 1990 fic (Section cape requires development project proponents to submit-landscapemum water -efficient landscape Private landscape projects. The ordinance also irrigation design plans and landscape maintenance schedules oi. construction and plans, grading plans, Works Department. In some cases, landscape irrigation audits and soils anaiewlyses and approval by the Public The City is also in the process of re grinanalyses are required. landscaping requirements for parngjots that will be responsive Parking Lot Tree Ordinance, which will identify specific Public Works Department will be responsible for reviewing pro seed P e to water conservation goals. The their conformance with this ordinance. Proposed Parking lot landscaping plans for The City also complies with State law which, since 1992, has mandated the installation of low -flush toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets in new construction. The Coachella Valley Water District has been instrumental in de water conservation programs. CV developing and implementing regional associations in an effort to identifywasteful wers ater er audits dits to farms, golf courses and homeowner's usage and improve efficiency. It also reviews I F J r� III-92 Water Quality/Resources Mitigatic `teasures �ft. N"00 TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Im actsDraft General Plan EIR landscape plans for major housing P Mitigation Measures other educational programs g and commercial developments, and offers landscape workshops P grams to homeowners associations and students. CV gardens to demonstrate the effective use of native plants and efficient i P and and use of reclaimed and recycled water has further WD maintains two xeriscape groundwater resources. reduced the adverseaimpacts systems. development treatment p ent on General Mitigation Measures Groundwater subbasins do not respect or contamination must be viewed o both aonal regional awes, and the management helps to protect groundwater quality, and local of t five f grounEffective ater sto depletion watersheds will help assure and optimize long-term natural ndProtection of the re ion's storm water groundwater repositories.barge to the Whitewater River and other mountain The conservation and wise use of water resources will development planning in Southern California. The City of palm D e a central theme of co Programs that encourage and/or require water City landscaping and i unity water-conservinghome a Desert has developed policies and appliances and fixtures. The City plays an important role design, as well as n the long-term Protection of this essential, finite and valuable resource. The goals, policies and programs of the 1 proposed Palm Desert General Plan update aim to provide and maintain a dependable su the General Plan stud PP y of safe, high -quality domestic water to meet the needs of all se reduce potential impacts to wateresources,area.f assoIlowing mitigation measures shall be implemented segments of to less than significant levels. associated with the implementation of the Proposed General Plan, A. The City shall continue to implement p ement it's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance to optimize conservation and comply with State Assembly Bill 325 (AB 325), b r and other drought -tolerant planting materials and efficient irrigation y requiring the use of native B• The City shall coordinate and cooperate tvi� the g n systems. strengthen educational/public relations ro Coachella Valle and water -efficient landscaping. P grams regarding the Importanceofwater conservation and anon C. The City shall require the use of water conservinga toilets, and !ow -flow showerheads and faucets, and require the application ppliances and fixtures such as low -flush technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Heal th and California Administrative Code Section 1601 Sa of water -conserving Code in all new developments. @)' and applicable sections of Title 24 of t fety Code, Title 20, he State ' D. The City shall support CV use of tertiarypp WD's continuation and expansion of groundwater recharge treated wastewater as a means of reducing demand for groundwater g efforts and E. The City shall coordinate with the CVWD re resources. tertiary treated wastewater treatment and distribution facilities regarding the continued use and future expansion of r development projects in the City. ilities to serve existing I g and new III-93 Biological Resources Existing Cond' 'ons 1n F. TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures The City shall consult and coordinate with CVWD regarding he expansion and fundin of sewer service to unconnected areas, and consider approaches and mechanisms that facilitategfinancing and construction of these facilities. G. The City shall require that all existing and new development be connected to the s treatment system of the Coachella Valley Water District. ewage H• The City shall establish and enforce regulations and guidelines for the development maintenance of project -specific on -site retention/detention basins, which implement he NPDES Program, enhance groundwater recharge, complement regional flood control facilities, and address applicable community design policies. 1. The City shall evaluate all proposed land use and development plans for heir potential t o crete groundwater contamination hazards from point and non -point sources, and shall confer with Other appropriate agencies, as necessary, to assure adequate review. J. The City shall actively encourage and shall participate in the development of water managem and conservation strategies, coordinating with CVAG and its member jurisdictions,, the Coachella Valley Water District, Desert Water Agency and Mission Springs Water District on water supply and conservation programs. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. All development proposals shall be reviewed by the Community Development Department City Engineer to assess potential adverse impacts on water quality and uantit . A d developments shall be required to mitigate any significant impacts. q Y 11 Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, City Engineer, Developers Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company. ' B • The Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Com an coordinate and cooperate with local, state and federal agencies to assure the p Y shall groundwater aquifer from excessive extraction, protection of Responsible Parties: Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water District F• Biological Resources 1• Existing Conditions The biological resources within and surrounding the City of Palm Desert were assessed in a comprehensive study prepared for the Palm Desert General Plan Update.` Preparation of the said biological resources study involved literature review which included the California Lion d Data Base (CNDDB), the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan Administrative Diversity -Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), boPlan, ministrative 1 and wildlife Draft Coachella Valley Multi 19 "Palm Desert General Plan Update, Biological Report," prepared by Dr. Lawrence F. LaPrd, June 29 , 2001. I� I 111-94 W logical Resources , Pect Impacts `" TN/City of Palm Desert EIR Section III- Existing Conditions, Impacts andrMitigationft Genera1Meas ures The goals of the Plan include standardized mitigation and compensation measures for species of concern on a regional basis, and meeting the requirements of federal and state protection laws for endangered species. Adoption of the MSCHP is anticipated to limit the need for individual project review of the potential effects of development activities on species of concern. 2. Project Impacts Potential Impacts to Plant Communities Grading and development of lands within the General Plan study area could potentially result in the destruction of entire populations of common and sensitive plant species. Elimination, depletion and modification of natural communities such as sand dunes and sand fields could result in significant impacts to species with extreme limited distribution such as the Coachella Valley milk vetch. Introduction of non-native plant species associated with landscaping could result in native plant species competing for water, nutrients and space. Adverse impacts to Glandular ditaxis plant species could occur with development projects at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Potential Impacts to Invertebrates and Reptiles Potential impacts to invertebrates and reptiles are associated with continued urbanization in the General Plan study area. The Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard, flat -tailed horned lizard, and the Coachella giant sand treader cricket are known to inhabit desert sand dunes and sandy flats. Urban development may lead to disruption, fragmentation and even permanent loss of habitat which will substantially affect individuals or an entire animal population. These species are also subject to impacts from traffic and off - highway vehicles and crushing from grading and construction activities. Potential Impacts to Birds Increased urbanization will result in significant impacts to both common and sensitive General Plan study area. Bird species are susceptible to domestic pet predation, shooting and capture be humans and electrocution from high voltage power lines. Disturbances to breeding seasons, ingestion o pesticides which causes the thinning of egg shells, and introduction of parasites contribute to the decline of bird population. Habitat for the Burrowing Owl is destroyed or becomes fragmented when development occurs in lands containing sand dunes and sand fields. Birds species that ' hilly or mountainous terrain are subject to impacts associated w' p inhabit cliffs and slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Flood control could affect development migratory riparian birds �such tas thto e Summer Tanager, Yellow Warbler, Least Bell's Vireo and yellow -Breasted Chat. e Potential Impacts to Mammals ' Development activities include the clearing of lands of all vegetation and wildlife. The General study area supports a diverse range q common and sensitive mammals which are subject to adverse lan impacts resulting from urbanization of the surrounding environment. Stud' s encroachment on the hillsides of the Santa Rosa Mountains has alreadyresulted in bi that habitat acquiring food and water from project developments. Animal and plant species inhabiting horn sheep Rosa Mountains are also susceptible to human disturbances including shooting, the Santa I g, capture p re or collection. The loss of sand dunes and sand field habitats will affect the Palm Springs Pocket Mouse and the Palm Springs Round -tailed Ground Squirrel. Small mammals become predatorytar a Off -road vehicles and highway vehicles also contribute to the decline o g is for domestic pets and f small mammal population. III-109 Biologic: Resources Mitigati�WMeasures "%No TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures es Landscaping of project development may include plants ingestion. that are toxic to mammals through contact or 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City shall continue to support and participate in the development of the Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan. B. The City shall designate all mountainous areas of the Santa Rosa Mountains, generally following the toe of slope, as Open Space for the protection of bighorn sheep and other species occurring in these habitats. C. Undeveloped lands that have not been graded, cleared or farmed at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains should be surveyed at the appropriate season for the presence of Glandular Ditaxis and the desert tortoise. D. The City shall not require fringe -toed lizard surveys for proposed projects on sand sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. The payment of the mitigation fee of $600 per acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan. E. Proposed projects within sand deposits throughout the northern General Plan study area should be surveyed at the appropriate season for potential presence of blowsand endemics, including the flat -tailed horned lizard, giant sand -treader cricket, and the Coachella Valley milk vetch. F. The City should require surveys for the gray vireo during the spring nesting season to evaluate potential impacts to this restricted -range bird species. Surveys for the dotted blue should also be required for evaluation of discretionary permits. Surveys for these particular bird species are applicable to development proposals within Section 36, T6S, R6E. G. Developments such as country clubs should be encouraged to establish grove plantings of untrimmed palm trees, which could provide roost sites for the southern yellow bat. H. Biological surveys for bats should be performed on projects involving reconstruction of bridges to determine if significant roost are present. I• The City should require water conservation and recycling for the Royal Carrizo, Pinyon Crest, and Chapman Ranch areas, in order to ensure adequate water supply for the endangered desert slender salamander. J• The City should consider the requirement that a barrier be constructed around the perimeter of any new project where the toe of slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains meets the valley floor. This would protect bighorn sheep and prevent additional habituation and reliance on food and water from developed areas. Informal consultation or review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Game should be completed prior to imposition of this III-110 Biological - isources Mitigationasures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III -Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mi 'gahon Measures recommendation. This barrier is one of the recommended conservation actions in the bighorn sheep recovery plan. K. The City shall encourage and cooperate in the establishment of multiple u drainage channels and utility easements to provide wildlife corridorssa d publs that use interconnections between open space areas, and public access L. The City shall prepare and maintain a comprehensive list of plant materials native and non-native, drought tolerant trees, shrubs and gro ndco erthat com which shall include environment. A list of prohibited plant materials shall also be prepared.Plement the local Mitigation Monitoring/Re ortin P g Program A. The City shall review information database and mapping system of sensitive habitats occurring within the General Plan study area, which shall be accuratelyants, animals and updated. and regularly Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, GIS St aff B • The Initial Study review process will be utilized to assess potential i Projects on biological resources. Impacts shall be clearlydocumented mpact of development recommended where appropriate.umented and mitigation measures Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Develo r/Cons C. The City shall assure that all required biological resource � ulting Biologist limited to off -site mitigations and/or the payment of impact feesgarte sn actions, including but not building permits, atisfied, prior to issuance of Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting D. Inspection during development and gradings Biologist assure the preservation and incorporation of nativeandother complla appropriate grading limits, and materials into all areas of the project according to the approved landscape pnate desert landscape Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting Biologist I CM cm Section III — G. Cultural Resources TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR and Miti lion Measures Analysis of cultural resources within the Palm of a cultural resources study for the City by CRM DesertTech.General Plan study area involved the re document. The study is included in A P Potion PPendia C of this 1. Existing Conditions The Palm Desert General Plan is art of a re ' Years' Cul P 81On that has witnessed human occupation for thousands of tural resources in the General plan stud were established before and after, the arrival of Euro area consist of Native features that were built and used as early as the 1700, b -Americans' as well American historical t Lures that Y European settlers. and Pre -Historic Settlement in the Study Area The "pre -historic" period represents the time prior to the pre -historic period in Coachella Valley is generally divided into of non -Native Period. The Archaic Period Occurred American peoples. The ur ed before 1,000 A.D. while the bate Archaic Period and Late prehistoric occurring after 1000 A.D. until around the late 1700s. Prehistoric Period is defined as tribes to the region, around 1 The introduction of pottery Prehistoric Periods and also indicates to snteractiestablished on between transition point between �e qr�h �radO fiver River tribes, en the Coachella Valle and Late Y tribes and the Colorado The Cahuilla, a Takic-speaking people of hunters and a culture to evolve in the Coachella Valley region. Anthropolo Anthropologists g therers, is the most recent identifiable native groups according to their geographic setting:ss t have divided the Cahuilla into three area; the Mountain Cahuilla of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mouahuilla of e San Gorgonio Pesert Springs the eastern Coachella Valley, as, far south as today's Salton Se Mountains; and the Desert Cahuilli of harvesting areas, ceremonial house and chief. However, a numberr Each lineage had its own food cooperated with one another for trade intermarriage, � of lineages are known to have ' g ,and ceremonies. During the prehistoric period, important cultural developments include to cremations around 500 B.C. and the introduction to the bow and air Historical linguistic studies suggest that between the change from burial practices from the Great Basin region of Nevada 1000 BC °�'�'� Probably around 500 A.D. Utah, and eastern California and 500 southern T akic speakers The first official land survey of the Coachella Valle w, California took place. Washington, James McDonald Y as conducted by Deputy U.S. made features in. , and John LaCroze in 1855-1856. Y Surveyors He the study area, including the ruins of an IndianTvillague neaz to noted a number of man- made They also identified several trails, one of which Crosse along the Whitewater River, close to the city center ofpresent-day resen - days Thousand Palms along the Whi Trail, which was later "di d the middle portion of the study area 1855-1856 surveys, also indicates that there P t day palm Desert. The trail was "discovered" by Euro-Americans as the Bradshaw Trail The the area. The nearest settlement to the study area a were as active native or non-native settlements in the study served as an important stop on the Bradshaw Trail during alma Seca well, an Indian rancheria which Present-day city of Indian Wells. 8 the 1860s and 1870s and is located in the III-112 M M Sectinn fii TN/City of Palm Desert Conditions, Impacts and Draft ft G anion M an EIR S ensures During the 1770's, the Spaniards crossed through Cahuilla territory as they explored between Mexico and northern California. It is considered that initial contact betw for new land routes Europeans took place during this period. Over time, conflicts over land ownership,religious the Cahuilla and practices and exploitation led to the deterioration of the relationship between the Cahul igious and cultural In the early 1860s, a smallpox epidemic, to which the Cahuilla had no imrnunit. la and Europeans. population, which declined to about 2,500 individuals. Peans Y. decimated the Cahuilla Today, Native Americans of the Pass and Desert Cahuilla heritage are mostly affiliated with one or more Caliente, Cabazon, and Morongo, most of which are in close proximity to the Ci of ' Augustine' Agua Historic Settlement in the Study Area During the late 18" century, Spain was determined to colonize California before Along the coast of California, religious missions and milit Other European nations. ary strongholds were established by Spanish searched for easily passable supply routes from Mexico to colonies on the northern Valley as they of California. Monterey Peninsula In 1822, Mexico secured its independence from Spain under the Treaty of Cordova and Spanish forces were driven out of Mexico and California. In 1823-1825, Jose Romero, Jose Maria Romualdo Pacheco led an expedition in search of a route European explorers to travel through the Coachella Valley. ma' Arizona and became he first Y t to Yuma, In 1848, the United States defeated Mexico in the Mexican -American W California. At the same time, the discovery of gold and the a az' and gained control of appeal of cattle ranching led to an influx of new settlers to the state. California was admitted to the Union in 1850. The first surveys were conducted in the Coachella Valley in 1855-56 by Henry Washin t U•S. Government James G. McDonald, who observed a number of trails and roads crossingthe V g °n, John La Croze and alley. The Cocomaricopa Trail passed through the Coachella Valley along the base Mountains, and connected the .coastal region of California with the Color of the Santa Rosa originally an Indian trade route and was revealed by the Maricopa Indians to t 1862, the trail was "rediscovered b ado River. The trail was '� he Europeans in 1821. In California coast and gold mines near the Colorado River, and it became y William David Bradshaw as the shortest route between the The trail served as the primary thoroughfare for stagecoaches traveling bet as the Bradshaw Trail. California and the gold fields near present-day Ehrenberg, Arizona. It al route between Los Angeles and Santa Fe, New Mexico. ng between coastal southern so became part of the U.S. Mail ico. By the late 1876-77, however, the completion of the transcontinental railroad Paz gold mines brought an end to the heyday of this historic wagon and the depletion of the La nothing by 1880, but ranchers and miners continued to use it for local transport. century, g road. Traffic declined to nearly ry, with the coming of the automobile age, the role of the Bradshaw TrailrtIn the early twentieth of the Ocean -to -Ocean Highway. Today, State Highway 111 closely Trail . was revived in the form y follows the course of the Bradshaw TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts Draft M, General em ral an EIR M a Non -Indian settlement in the Coachella Valley expanded during the 1870s and 1880s, with the establishment of railroad stations along the Southern Pacific line and the implementation of the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act, which opened public land for claims. With the utilization of underground water sources, farming became the dominant economic activity in the Coachella Valley. The date Palm, the region's main agricultural staple, was first introduced around 1900, and by the late 1910s the date palm industry had firmly established itself in the region. Starting in the 1920s, however, a new industry featuring equestrian camps, resort hotels and eventually country clubs began spreading throughout the Valley. The General Plan study area remained unsettled and devoid of any evidence of land development until the turn of the twentieth century: The only features recorded during that time were the Southern Pacific Railroad, Bradshaw Trail, and another trail near the northern tip of the Planning Area at the mouth of West Wide Canyon. Several railroad construction workers' camps were present by the early 1900s. In 1910, improvements to the Bradshaw Trail (the forerunner of today's Highway 111) further pave way for settlement and growth in the "cove communities" region of the Coachella Valley. By 191h 4,a railroad station named Edom, which contained a post office, was established in the Ge Planning Area. neral Plan The construction of the Colorado River Aqueduct by the Metropolitan Water District, between 1933 and 1939 brought a number of permanent and temporary features to the northernmost portion of the Planning Area. Among these were roads, power transmission lines, waterlines, and construction camps. The remains of one of eight construction camps, Camp Thousand Palms, have been discovered at the mouth of East Deception Canyon in the foothills of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. By 1941, several rural settlements had been established in the area between the Southern Pacific Railroad (now Union Pacific) and the Indio Hills. Among these were Thousand Palms, Edom, Myoma, the Ferguson Ranch, the Thousand Palms Oasis, the Bar Bell Ranch, the Chuckwalla Ranch, and the Hunter Palms Ranch. The small community of Palm Village was established south of the railroad, on the north side of Highway 111. The Foul ing of the ity of P Irn ,P ert development, and organized the Palm Desert Corporation to promote t The City of Palm Desert was founded on the south side of Highway 111 in 1945-1946 by the four rs were involved in early Henderson brothers, Randall, Carl, Clifford, and Phil. The Henderson brothe heir new desert town, and b 1947, the population was sufficient to establish a post office. In 1951, Palm Village and Palm Desert merged into a single community, forming the present urban core of the city. Around that time, the community of Cahuilla Hills emerged on the west side of Highway 74, just southwest of Palm Des addition, several tracts of land south of the railroad and in the area between the Little S ert. In Mountains and the Indio Hills were settled. After four unsuccessful attempts, the City of Pal Dee o was incorporated in 1973 and became the 17' incorporated city in Riverside County, rt III-114 -'-;:! �i�"�. iji /, // / �.'. ���. ,,,...:�.%5 � � y: � � ' i; i.;i�ji ,���%'i v. .. I 33 i 35 IPA TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Im acts and Mitigation Measures Archaeological Resources in the Study Area Historical maps, Previous p , p ous cultural resource surveys, aerial photographs, topographic maps and other cultural records were consulted to determine the presence of known archaeological resources in the General Plan .study area. A total of 138 archaeological sites have been identified and recorded in General Plan study area, 125 of which are prehistoric the have also been identified. p (Native American) sites. Several isolated artifacts The majority of prehistoric sites in the General Plan study area represent Native American habitation activities, including ceramic and lithic scatters, bedrock milling features, rock cairns, trails, roasting pits, and fire hearths. One quarry site has also been identified. Most of these sites are located along the sides of canyons at the edge of the Santa Rosa Mountains, such as Coyote Creek and Deep Canyon, or in the Indio Hills. These areas would have offered Native Americans access to water and other important mountain and desert resources. Archaeological Reco�,res Sensitivity AscPccmP.,r Anthropologists and Cahuilla cultural authorities have identified nine locations within or partially within the General Plan study area that are of potential Native American cultural significance. Six of these areas occur within the Santa Rosa Mountains in the southern portion of the City's sphere -of -influence, and three are situated in the Indio Hills in northern portion of the General Plan study area. Most of them are associated with canyons, which offered water on at least a seasonal basis. These findings suggest that the various canyons in the Santa Rosa Mountains and Indio Hills, and the alluvial fans at the canyon mouths, should be regarded as highly sensitive for prehistoric archaeological resources. Potentially sensitive areas are shown in Exhibits III-114 and III-15. Historic Resources in the Study Area Historically significant sites are generally more than forty-five to fifty years of age, but range from the period of the earliest European contact (around the late 1770s in the Coachella Valley) to about the end of World War II. Potentially significant historic sites range from permanent trails and highways to living areas and small-scale remains of single activities. Analysis of previous cultural resources studies indicates that, of the 138 archaeological sites recorded in the General Plan study area, 13 are historic -era sites. These are primarily comprised of trash scatters, although structural foundations, a road, and a water conveyance system have also been recorded. Among the historic sites are the Southern Pacific Railroad and other nearby features associated with the railroad. Several sites associated with the construction of the Colorado River Aqueduct in the 1930s have been recorded in the vicinity of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. From 1981 to 1983, the Riverside County Historical Commission coordinated a countywide historical resources reconnaissance, which led to the recordation of 30 historic sites in the General Plan study area. These include a well site that dates back to 1912, the Cavanagh Adobe building that was built in the 1920s, and single-family residences constructed in the 1930s and 1940s. Most of these sites are located near the city center of Palm Desert, although several are near the community of Thousand Palms. Although the City of Palm Desert does not maintain a list of officially recognized or designated local historical landmarks, the Historical Society of Palm Desert has compiled a list of 21 sites of local historical significance. The list includes sites ranging from early homesteads to mid -twentieth centur y TN/City of palm Desert Draft Section III — Existin Conditions, Im acts and General ion Measur es urban development. They are concentrated in the central urban core of the City, and only a few are located in outlying areas. The majority of the sites were recorded on the California Historical Reso Information System during the countywide survey in the 1980s. urce Historic R o �mp� QP*+�ifi� • , A Historic structures daring from the late 1940s and early 1950s are concentrated around the urban core the City, and structures of similar vintage are likely to be found in outlying communities such of Thousand Palms and Cahuilla Hills. For historic structures, or historic -period azchaeolo 'cal remains as dating before 1940, the most sensitive areas in the planning area are along the Colorado River Aqueduct, between the Indio Hills and the Southern Pacific Railroad, and around the original communi of Village north of Highway 111. Nonetheless, the possibility of finding historic resources in other areas cannot be ruled out. Potentially sensitive areas are identified in Exhibits III-14 and III-15. Programs Administered by the City of palm Desert The City of Palm Desert is an active participant in the resources. cul City formed the Historical Commission and appointed four members to c out the resresponsibilities 1978, the coordinating and preserving memorabilia associated with the founding and development of the City.of This led to the incorporation of the Historical Society of Palm Desert in March 1979, which has 1 an important role in the City's historic preservation efforts since then. Today, the Historical Society maintains numerous archival records pertaining to the City's development, which is housed in the Cit 's historic fire station located at 72-861 El Paseo and is staffed by about 38 volunteers. y In 1984, the Palm Desert City Council formally adopted Ordinance 401, a historic ordinance which outlines the definitions and criteria of "historic site" and "historic d district." preservation ordinance requires the maintenance of a seven -member Historic Site Preservation Board to identifyare protect properties meeting these definitions and criteria. The Board also has the authority and responsibility to initiate the designation of historic sites or districts, review projects that may affectand the sites, and issue temporary stays on demolition or exterior alterations of potentially historic structure.such 2• Project Impacts Historically significant sites and structures are those that are 45 years of age or older and provide evidence of past human activities. Based on California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) Guideli Appendix K, cultural resource$ must be evaluated for their importance or significance.' " An im nes, archaeological resource" is defined by CEQA as one which: portant A. Is associated with an event or person of: 1• Recognized significance in California or American history, or 2• Recognized scientific importance in prehistory; B. Can provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in ad scientifically consequential and reasonable or archaeological research questions; dressing ' "California Environmental Quality Act — Statutes and Guidelines." Prepared by the Governor's Office of P Research, State of California, June 1992. Appendix K: Archaeological Impacts. tanning and III-118 Cul *al Resources Mitation Measures En I r I J I I Se&inn ITT TAUCity of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Ed Mitigation Measures C. Has a special or particular quality such as oldest, best examplelargest of its kind; ,, or last surviving example D. Is at least 100 years old and possesses substantial stratigraphic integrity; or, E. Involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be answered only with archaeological methods. Based on the findings of the cultural resources study for the proposed Gen Desert General Plan study area includes lands of high sensitivity for reh st Plan u artifacts, as well as historic structures or historic- plate, the Palm p rstoric and archaeological Period archaeological remains. The study identifies that areas of high sensitivity for prehistoric and archaeolo various canyons in the Santa Rosa Mountains and Indio Hills and the alluvial fan which would have provided the Native populations access t grcal remains occur in the water sources in the canyons. However, it should be notedo mountain and desert resources, as well as sat the canyon mouths, that the designates the majority of these lands for conservation, and limited ands proposed General Plan Update are assigned very low densities. designated for development Areas particularly sensitive for historic structures or historic -period archaeological remains dating Pacific Railroad, and around the original community of Palm Indio Hills and the Southern 1940s and early 1950s most likely occur in the urban core of the cit , along Village. Historic structures from the late such as Thousand Palms, Cahuilla Hills and the Sky Valley area. As erth out] in co continues to P Y g communities City Participate in the preservation of cultural resources by implementing Historic Pr above, the City Ordinance 401 and by establishing the Historic Site Preservation Board. Desert has also played an important role in the City's historic preservation Preservation The Historical Society of Palm P ahon efforts. Future development projects in the General Plan study area could of indirect disturbance or destruction of sensitive archaeological and historic resources. Site surveys should be conducted on all future development projects if potentially result in direct and/or significance of archaeological and historic resources. necessary, to determine the presence and deemed 3• Mitigation Measures Continued development and urbanization of the proposed Palm Desert decrease the opportunities for documenting and preserving archaeologicalGeneral Plan planning area will The City of Palm Desert has the responsibility to assure that eve ry reasonable cultural resources properly and creatively within ' and historic sites and artifacts. its jurisdiction. The CaliforniafEnvfort is made to manage Act (CEQA) identifies the manner in which the City must rev' Environmental a Quality archaeological and historic resources. Projects involving a federal federal assistance must conform to r Section Projects of thereview and address issues related to 1966• In addition, the following mitigation measures agency, federal funding or other National Historic Preservation Act cultural resources to less than significant levels. are recommended to reduce potential impacts of Cultura" lesources Mitigat Measures *AOV Section TN'City of Palm Desert III -Existing Conditions, Irn DrR rat} General Plan 13 A, Pacts and Mitigation Measures All development or land use cultural resources Proposals, which have shall be evaluated b the Potential to disturb or destroy comprehensive phase I studies and appropriate a qualified project a r professional Y sensitive approvals. PP opriate mitigation measures shall and, if necessary, be incorporated into B • The City should establish a which the City transmittal system with the Eastern Info development ty may send a location pment proposal is in its initial reP totheF.IC for anon Center (EIC) in absence of ansmittal_level records known cultural reso phase. The transmittal shall identif search when a area. The EIC shall urces and/or previous) Y the presence or necessary, also offer recommendations regardingy Performed studies in the need for additionaand near udies Project C. The City shall expand and enhance its , where Preservation plan and by considerin historic preservation efforts b g Participation in the Certified Local Go preparing a historic D• The City shall also incorporate historic ment program. E. preservation concerns into its zoning ordinance. The City shah es ' tablish and maintain an inventory within its jurisdiction, including those identified by of archaeological and University of California,istorical resources teaRiverside and in focused cultural stern Inform Center (EIC) at the F. The Cityshall oral resources studies. protect sensitive collection to the amhaeOjogical and historic info greatest extent resources from vandalism information, which identifies s P°ssible. The City shall maintain Mapping and illegal manner, and access to P�rfic locations of sensitive cultural resources in such in , and similar Professional or or rmation shall be a confidential ganizational ties provided only to those G. with appropriate The City shall support the listing of eligible structures or sites as with the palm National Register of potential historic landmarks Desert Historic place. The Cit and identifying and Historical Society and other a Y will consult and coo in the National Prioritizing on� sites which appropriate cultural or cooperate are eligible for listing as a historic lan organizations in j Historic places. landmark or inclusion H• The City shall develop enhance significant buildingsplication and sites, ress for Cit - Y sponsored incentives to guidance on eligibility requirements, d Provide property owners with information maintain and J In the event that archaeologicalresource°matron and City shall require that development s are unexpectedly examine and d pment cease discovered during document the site to determine, and a Professional archaeologist shall be construction, the measures. subsequent activities and a employed to appropriate mitigation I I III-120 Aid reality Ewing Conditions TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts andraft Mitigatlon Me�asuEre�s Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. Potential impacts of development projects on cultural resources shall be evaluated through the Initial Study review process. Impacts shall be clearly documented and miti a recommended where appropriate, g lion measures Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting Archaeologist, UC-Riverside Eastern Information Center, B . City Staff shall review cultural resources reference materials and update City records and inventories on an annual basis to assure timely and adequate maintenance Responsible Parties: Community Development De °f the database. Information Center. Partment, and UC-Riverside Eastern H. Air ual' Quality The air quality of a particular locale is a significant factor to public h two decades, air quality improvements have occurred in Southern California and the Coachella P health and welfare. Over the past However, the region continues to experience significant air pollution problems a l Valley. associated with suspended particulates. The City of Palm DesertParticularly those demonstrate their commitment to improving air quality in the region by implementing surrounding co management programs, communities p menting air quality 1• Existing Conditions The Coachella Valley is located within a meteorologically surrounding mountains shield the valley from coastalinfluences from ethe west,geographically unique area. The lying desert environment. The valley is also prone to air inversions, in which ared create a hot, low - trapped near the ground where it is further loaded with pollutants. This process when chemical aerosols and other pollutants emitted b autom layer of stagnant air is considerable haziness and increased pollutant levels. °bales, furnaces and other sources cbined an resultwithin The Coachella Valley is also subject to strong and sustained winds that is quantities of sand and dust, depositing these materials on buildings, fabrics and auto reducing visibility and damaging pick up and transport large mobiles, thereby g g property. Extensive wind-borne soil can dirty streets, pit windshields and damage landscaping. Dust on vegetation can interfere with plant respiration adverse health effects in humans can be severe and include reduced lure aci and stunt growth. The g ca P ty and functioning. Air Quality Management and Regulation Air quality management in the proposed General Plan study area is governed by federal and state air quality standards and regulations pertaining to a variety of air pollutants. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements the fede ral Clean Air Act (CAA), which IS intended to ensure that all Americans have the basic health and enfe to air quality. The CAA establishes minimum air pollution standards,vironmental protections with regard but allows states to enact and III-121 Air Quality Mitigation Meares ' TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Imaft General Plan EIR acts andMitigationMeasures project emissions should be compared to the projected future baseline (without corresponding to project phasing and/or buildout ear.i3 mitigation) for the years Valley will be affected less by future growth in the Palm Desert General ojected future baseline for the Coachella growth in other valley communities with large amounts l affordable land available n area and more from including the aforementioned cities of Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta, Indio,C for development, unincorporated areas, ,Coachella, and the 3 • Mitigation Measures The South Coast Air Quality Management District, CVAG and the City of Palm Desert share responsibility for monitoring air pollutant levels and regulating air pollution sources. environment and protection of the general public from h Preservation of the mitigating activities, which contribute to the degradation ofa oc� air pollutants involves monitoring and and regional air quality. A range of mitigation measures developed by federal, state and local agencies c throughout the life of the General Plan to reduce pollutant emissions associated be put into effect buildout. The ongoing implementation and updating of California Title 24 Buildingd with General Plan with more efficient use of energy, can contribute to the reduction of impacts of Codes, combined heating, cooling, power plants and the consumption of natural gas. Alternative methods emissions from Power generation have and will continue to replace the need for additional fossil fuel -based of electrical capacity,sed generating In the State of California automobile smog checks are mandatory and are designed to ensure vehicle compliance with existing emissions standards. It is feasible that improvements technology and an overall decline in air pollutant will occur in the future. Cleaner caner u combustion efficient transportation vehicles are expected to continue to evolve. fuels and more Impacts to air quality associated with the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are potentially significant if left unmitigated. Within the context of the anticipated Mitigation measures set forth below are provided to reduce General Plan air u significant levels: P ed future baseline, quality impacts to less than A. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with CVAG and SCA MD i and management of major pollutants affecting the City and region, with and shall provide all required reporting to Q n the ongoing monitoring P g be ultimately included in SCA arttcular focus on rt. B • The City shall develop and maintain its Genera Q� s annual report. Pollution point sources, such as manufacturing facilities, are located at an Elementse to assure that air ' from residential areas and other sensitive land uses and receptors. PP1OP�ate distance C• The City shall encourage project developers to develo site between sensitive receptors and point source e P Plans that integrate buffer zone such as highways and industrial sources. s mutters su CEQA Air Quality Handbook," prepared by South Coast Air Quality Management District Ap ril III-137 Air-,iality Mit`.*'ation Measures *40# 0 E. TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existin Conditions, Im draft MitG ationl� EiR acts 8 S M easures The City shall review all development proposals for potential adverse effects on air as appropriate, require detailed air quality analyses and mitigation measures to address and potentially significant impacts. Mitigation measures and dust control plans shall be a the City prior to the issuance of ess any grading, construction, demolition or other approved by permits. The City shall encourage the incorporation of energy -efficient design measures including appropriate site orientation to assure solar access, and the use of shade in site plans, trees to enhance the use of alternative energy systems and to reduce then dafo windbreak heating and cooling. r excessive F. The City shall develop and maintain a diversified transportation System that efficiencies, minimizes vehicle miles traveled, and reduces the impact of motorlvehiciclzes system air quality. les on local G• The City shall continue to promote the development and use of Pedestrian-o as well as community -wide multi -use trails, dedicated bike lanes nented retail centers, golf art paths, and other desirable alternatives to motor vehicle traffic. These components shallcbe Periodically updated in the General plan Circulation Element. Integrated and H. The City shall implement and coordinate with the SCAQMD and CVAG monitoring of the effectiveness of transportation management programs to assure adequate use o Sunee (line and other public transportation, coordinated carpooling, off-peak shift P grams of employers, including employee flex -time and other components. As future demand warrnts, the City shall and support the development of aPark-and-Ride program P Ift times, levels within the community. P gram to decrease existing and future promote I• The City shall encourage the use of c I cooling and electrical generation, tothegreatest extentve Practical es for transportation, heating, coordinate with its franchise service providers and other public and rivate ll encourage and ' do same. P service providers to J. The City shall continue to implement the Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance construction, grading and demolition activities, on -going land uses, and off - reduce ule to reduce PMIo emissions to the greatest extent practical. road vehicle se to K The City shall continue to Proide' cumulative impacts of blowsandV transportation -related eet sweepingProram that combats the dust generation, and nuisance dust that , result from natural windstorm events. L• The City shall require the implementation of air quality contro current Coachella Valley PMIo State Implementation Plan. 1 measures identified in the most , M. A PMIo Management Plan for construction operations shall Proposals. The plan shall include dust management be submitted with all development • such as: watering the site and equipment morning and evening III-138 Air r .lity Mitik*f ion Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, impacts draft gat General Measuareas res • spreading soil binders on disturbed areas, unpaved roads, and arki • operating street -sweepers on paved roads adjacent to site P ng • re-establishing ground cover on construction site through seeding and watering • paving construction access roads, as appropriate N. To minimize construction equipment emissions, the City shall assure that d contractors shall, as appropriate, implement the following: evelopers and • wash off trucks leaving the site • require trucks to maintain two -feet of freeboard I properly tune and maintain construction equipment • use low sulphur fuel for construction equipment 0. To reduce construction -related traffic congestion, developer appropriate, implement the following: sand contractors shall, as • encourage rideshare incentives for construction rsonnel • configure construction parking to minimize traffic interference minimize obstruction of through -traffic lanes • provide a flag person to ensure safety at construction sites, as necessary • schedule operations affecting roadways for off- peak hours, as practical P. To minimize indirect -source emissions, developers may also: • implement energy conservation measures beyond state and local re u' • install low -polluting and high -efficiency appliances q irements • install solar water heaters, to the • install energy-efficientgreatest extent feasible street, landscape and parking lot lighting • • include energy costs and design efficiency into capital expenditure analyses landscape with native and other appropriate drought -resistant species to reduce water consumption and to provide passive solar benefits Q• To minimize building energy requirements, developers shall implement the • following: assure the thermal integrity of buildings and, as appropriate, reduce the thermal load with automated time clock or occupant sensors • use efficient window glazing, wall insulation and ventilation methods • use most efficient heating and other appliances, such as water heaters cookie equipment, refrigerators, furnaces and boiler units g • incorporate appropriate passive solar design and solar heaters • use devices that minimize the combustion of fossil fuels • capture waste heat and re-employ this heat, to the greatest extent practicable Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A- The City Community Development Department shall coordinate with South Coast Air Qualityp Management District and CVAG to facilitate the maintenance and expansion of the Coachella Valley's existing air quality monitoring equipment. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCA ._ QMD, CVAG III-139 Air Quah! y 1400 Litigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert General Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts draft Mitigation Measures B. The appropriate code enforcement division shall record, consolidate and retain all complaints it receives concerning air quality degradation from construction sites, vehicle emissions, industrial generators, and other sources of air quality impacts. A report on air quality complaints and identified problems shall be provided in the annual review of the General Plan. development may be temporarily halted until inadequate controls or unaccepIn addition, table In are corrected to the satisfaction of the City and/or SCAQMD. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCAQMD, CVAG C. The City Public Works Department shall monitor the performance of the City's roadways system, identify areas of congestion and inefficient traffic movement, and develop recommendations to enhance the performance of all components of the City transportation system. Responsible Parties: City Public Works Department, SCAQMD, CVAG 1. Noise The noise environment can have a significant influence on the health and comfort of a community. Assessment of the noise environment in the General Plan study area involved the preparation of a noise study by Urban Crossroads. The study examines the existing noise environment in the General Plan study area and projects the future noise impacts associated with General Plan buildout. This study is included in its entirety in Appendix E of this document. 1• Existing Conditions Noise is simply defined as unwanted sound. Excessive noise affects physical health, psychological well being, social cohesion, property values and economic productivity. The effects of noise on people include subjective effects, such as annoyance and nuisance; interference with activities such as conversation and sleep; and psychological effects, ranging from startle to hearing loss. Noise generators include components of urbanization such as construction equipment and activities, motor vehicles, air and rail traffic, mechanical equipment, household appliances and other sources. Generally, the City of Palm Desert enjoys a quiet noise environment, with existing community noise ' being dominated primarily by constant motor vehicle traffic on highways and major arterials. The noise environment of the General Plan study area is also affected by local airport operations. Given its location, the Bermuda Dunes Airport has the greatest impact in the General Plan study area. Commercial ' aviation at the Palm Springs Regional Airport occasionally has an intrusive but intermittent impact on the community's noise environment. However, current airport master plan improvements are projected to further reduce airport noise exposure in Palm Desert. p r Freight rail service along the Union Pacific Railroad lines located immediately south of and parallel to I- 10 are also responsible for generating substantial noise levels in the community. Other communit noise ' generators include industrial operations, construction activities, special event noise, live music, home III-140 I A 1 A J, A 0 A li Nois& Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Draft General Plan EIR Conditions, Impacts dMit Mitigation Commercial and Ind +�+*gat NoicP Commercial and industrial activities generate noise resulting from loading and docking operations truck operations, and mechanical equipment installed both outside and inside buildings. Sensitive noise receptors adjacent to commercial and industrial land uses are anticipated to experience the significant impacts of noise associated with commercial and industrial activities. The review of commercial and industrial projects, particularly those in close proximity to sensitive receptors, for land use and noise compatibility issues is critical as the General Plan study area continues to expand. The use of new technologies, combined with the design requirements imposed by the City, including screening d enclosures for stationary equipment, will help toiwith General P mitigate potential impacts associated buildout.Plan Construction Noi e Construction noise constitutes a short-term impact on adjacent land uses. However, significant noise impacts could result from construction activities such as heavy construction equipment, that can g generate noise levels ranging from 68 dBA to 100 dBA when measured at 50 feet from the noise source. 3• Mitigation Measures Continued growth and development in the General Plan study area will result in significant im associated with noise. Strategic land use and transportation planningpacts acoustical barriers contribute highly to the management of the City's noise environment mitigation, and Noise Ordinance In 1985, the City of Palm Desert adopted Title 9, Chapter 9.24 of its Municipal Code, which e community -wide noise standards to emphasize the value of an acceptable noise environment. The City established Noise Control Ordinance provides regulations for noise measurement and monitoringand c' Provisions of, and exemptions to, the ordinance. It is intended to regulate excessive noise from existing uses and associated activities, and to serve as a reference guide for ' cites special regulations. The Palm Desert Noise Control Ordinance provides definitions of s g identifying other pertinent noise exterior noise level standards on a time -of -day basis along with adjustments for intensity and duration. key terms and establishes According to the City Noise Ordinance, the exterior noise one -hour standard for residential la 55 dB between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 45 dB between 10 P.M. to 7 a.m. Violations of the Ordinance are considered as a nuisance and subject to the procedures re land uses is the City's Violations/Infractions Ordinance. Noise Control remedies and penalties set forth in Noise Barriers Because of the linear qualities of noise, barriers, such as walls, can be effective i It is important to note, however, that noise barriers must be of sufficient height n reducing its impacts. noise source entirely (generally in Palm Desert this noise source the length to obstruct the Reductions of 10 to 15 dB can be achieved with effective, solid walls which block City's roadways). home to the adjacent roadway. lock the line of site from a The noise standards in the General Plan are intended to guide the location sensitive land uses. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented associated with noise to less than significant level:le future noise generators and p ted to reduce impacts Noise 4wor Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft Section III -Existing ConditioIR ns, Im acts and M ga General Me�UreeS Categorical Mitigation Measures The following discussion describes the specific mitigation measures, which are stated on a categorical basis to address identified impacts. Construction Noise A . The City shall restrict grading and construction activities that may affect residential neighborhoods and other sensitive land uses to specified days of the week and times of the day. B. All construction equipment operating in the General Plan study area shall be fitted with well maintained functional mufflers to limit noise emissions. C. To the greatest extent feasible, earth moving and hauling routes shall be located away from nearby existing residences. D. Any portion of development in the General Plan study area involving blasting or pile drivin operations shall have a focused acoustical study conducted, to establish the level and duration of off -site noise and vibration impacts and appropriate mitigation measures. 9n-Site Statinna J, N ti eCes E. The design, selection and placement of the mechanical equipment for various buildings the General Plan study area shall include consideration of the potential noise impact onne bly residences, both within the any development and in the surrounding community. F. Silencers and/or barriers shall be provided where necessary at outdoor equipment, such as cooling towers, air cooled condensers and refrigeration compressors/condenser units, and at the air intake and discharge openings for building ventilation systems. G. Appropriate sound barriers shall be provided surrounding any and all public facilities capable of generating disturbing levels of noise, such as water pumping stations. Off -Site Traffic H. Potential noise impacts shall be considered in the final site plans for all Proposed projects within the General Plan study area. Factors to be considered shall include the strategic arrangement of housing to provide necessary shielding of outdoor living areas, the incorporation of additional setbacks from roadways, and/or the construction of additional noise barriers. I• Project designs shall be required to include measures which assure that interior noise levels for residential development do not exceed 45 CNEL, as required by Title 25, California Noise Insulation Standards. J. Land uses that are compatible with higher noise levels shall be located adjacent to the Cit 's major arterial roads and highways, including the Interstate-10 corridor, to maximize noise related land use compatibility. III-152 Ise V ltigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert S­ Draft General Plan EIR ection III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures K. The City shall require the preparation of a noise impact analysis for all commercial and i projects which are to be located adjacent to residential land uses or other sensitive land use designations. The required noise impact analysis shall evaluate potential impacts of the ro'ect and provide for adequate mitigation measures to assure that City standards for r p other sensitive land uses are maintained. residential and/or L. The City shall encourage a City-wide circulation pattern which places primary major arterials and preserves local neighborhood noise environments by limiting roladwa s to local traffic to the greatest extent practical. y Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. Establish and periodically update an inventory o existing incompatible areas, and develop procedures to educehe nise significant on these areas, and economically and aesthetically feasible. ewhere Responsible Parties: Community Development Department B. Periodically review land use patterns and the community noise environment, and amend the la use map as appropriate to assure reasonable and usetnoise compatibility. and Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, City y C. In areas subject to potentially significant noise impacts, the City shall require new develo to monitor and document compliance with all applicable noise level limits. Pment Responsible Parties: Community Development Department Pre-C ns ruction D. During project -specific site planning and building design, ensure acoustical anal consideration the following: analysis takes into • selection and placement of mechanical equipment for all buildings, • shielding and buffering of mechanical equipment for all buildings, • strategic location of attached residences to provide shielding of outdoor living spaces, • theme wall is constructed to noise barrier specifications, • designate acceptable truck/construction equipment route(s), as appropriate, • construction drawings shall include exact acoustical specifications for window glass in A buildings with unshielded first and second floor window exposures above CNEL 65 and, s which experience noise • verify that design plans of specific projects within the General Plan study area com I with State Code requirements of unit -to -unit airborne sound isolation p y Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor and City Community y Development 111-153 Now` Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures During Construction E. Ensure functional mufflers on all construction equipment. Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor, Building Department F. Ensure that designated truck/construction equipment routes are being utilized. Responsible Parties: General and Grading Contractor, Building Department G. Ensure construction equipment operates during the hours set in the Noise Ordinance, except in emergencies. Responsible Parties: General Contractor, Building Department I Visual Resources 1. Existing Conditions Regional Setting The City of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley benefit from significant viewsheds created by the area's geology. On the north, the Valley is bordered by the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains, as well as the Indio Hills. Much of this land, which borders the General Plan study area, has been protected as open space in perpetuity by the creation of the Joshua Tree National Monument. The Indio Hills are south of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Edom Hill rises to an elevation of 1,614 feet. The Indio Hills are upgradient from the planning area, and can be seen from many parts of the General Plan study area. Edom Hill, located easterly of the planning area, rises to an elevation of just over 1,600 feet above sea level. The San Jacinto Mountains comprise the western boundary of the Coachella Valley, along with the significant peak of San Gorgonio. The San Jacinto Mountains rise sharply from the Valley floor, and represent the steepest gradient in North America. The San Jacinto range, although clearly visible from most parts of the City, is not immediately adjacent to the General Plan study area. The General Plan study area is bordered on the south by the Santa Rosa Mountains. The highest peaks in this range include Toro Peak, at 8,717 feet above sea level, and Santa Rosa Peak at 8,000 feet above sea level. Through the City, Highway 111 follows roughly the toe of slope of this range, which provides a stunning backdrop to the City's built environment. The San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains were designated a National Monument by Congress in 2000, ensuring their preservation as a valuable scenic resource for the long term. Local Setting The majority of the City and planning area are located on the Valley floor, at elevations close to sea level. Only the southern part of the City, located east and west of Highway 74, occurs at more significant elevations, in the Santa Rosa mountains. Development in south Palm Desert, from El Paseo to Bighorn Country Club, occurs on the alluvial fan which falls from the Santa Rosa foothills to the III-154 Visual Resources Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing ConditionsPlan EIR , Impacts and Mitigation GeneralDraft Measures Valley floor. The balance of the City and planning area, further south, is designated for o uses, and will not experience development. pen space land The development which has occurred in the City and in adjacent communities abuts mountains, and has created a striking contrast visible from most of the Valley, and the eforen is most significant visual resource. In the northern portion of the study area, development to date has been limited beyond Interstate 10 has limited visual value. This is characteristic of the wind-blown sand dunes created by climatic conditions in the area and it 2• Project Impacts Buildout of the Preferred Alternative is expected to result in the continuation of development a currently occurs in the City. The generally suburban and resort -oriented nature of resid n ' s commercial development will not change significantly with buildout of the General Plan. The G n al Plan also does not propose to significantly change the generally low-rise, and thus low density, t es of structures which have been built in the past. YP All development, however, will continue to change the appearance of the Valley floor, and has the potential to significantly impact the City's scenic viewsheds. This is particularly true in are as of the study area which have been traditionally under or undeveloped, in the area north of Interstate 10 to the San Bernardino Mountains. Careful consideration of the character of this area is important to its fut integration into the built environment of the City. The proposed General Plan include me Policies and programs, located in the Community Design Element, which ensure that the construct on of all types of structures in the future will be sensitive to scenic viewsheds, surrounding development, a of the City's character. The Plan either regulates development, or requires that th P nd q municipal code be amended to include standards for development. e zoning ordinance and The northern portion of the study area is also particularly susceptible to the and glare. Since this area is currently under -developed, nights time lighting is c im t d,tated ith and we erall light consists primarily of car headlights and outdoor security lighting. As this area develops, the nightgenerally time lighting levels are likely to increase, and change its visual character. The General Plan includes Provisions for limited lighting, and policies and programs provided in the Community Desi n Ele specifically require that outdoor lighting be sensitive to dark sky principles. g nt The proposed General Plan Land Use Map designates the Santa Rosa Mountains as Open S designation significantly restricts the potential for development. These measures will limit development Rosa Mount to the valley floor and preserve the high visual quality of the Santa P Pace. This Mountains. 3• Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures further assure that buildout of the General Plan impacts n the City's visual resources. will have limited 1I1-155 Visualesources Mitigation Measures TTi/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existin Conditions Im acts Draft General Plan EIR A• Overhead utility lines shall be undergrounded to the reate and Mitigation Measures establishment of an undergroundin Program guidelines. g st extent possible through the g P gram and B. The City shall coordinate with utility providers, includingbut n Edison, the Imperial Irrigation District, The Gas Com n of limited to Southern California infrastructure, including water wells, substations, and switching/contr screened to preserve scenic viewsheds and limit visual Compan y' and Verizon to assure that utility of facilities are effectively C. Outdoor lighting shall be limited to the minimum height, needed to provide sufficient security and identifi reasonable effort to protecdevelopment, making every cation in each devel fixtures, and intensity t the community's night skies. D. Signage shall be limited to the locations, sizes, and maintenance Provide functional identification. Hance requirements necessary to E. Commercial and mixed use development projects shall incorporate and pedestrian circulation, screened outdoor storageAoading and other u si convenient vehicular and enhanced outdoor seating areas, appropriate lighting levels, limited si htl designs that preserve and enhance visual resources. ig gnage, and landscaping Y areas, Protected F. Commercial and mixed use development shall be designed with the lighting impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods, h Particular attention to limiting G. All grading and development proposed within scenic view regulated to minimize adverse impacts to these viewsheds, sheds, including hillsides, shall be Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall maintain and amend the Municipal Code a Parameters to which public and private development projects must o conform are c necessary to assure the design Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, defined. Council. g ommission, City K. Public Services and Facilities Schools 1• Existing Conditions Public education services and facilities are provided to the General Plan study area by two school ( SUSD) and Palm Springs Unified School District Frank Sinatra Drive, and lands located north ofIntesta e-10 and east the study district includes the remainder of the stud are Y area, including lands south of Y a, including northwestern t rn Palngton Street. Desert and the PSUSD Palms and Sky Valley communities. e Thousand III-156 w Public SSO ices and Facilities Schools `" 0 IR .1 TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Conditions, Impacts draft Mit gat,oaIMeanasuErIR 3• Mitigation Measures A. Developers will continue to be assessed the statutory school miti commercial development. gation fees for residential and B: In the event that developers in the planning area attempt to utilize public facilities financing districts, both school districts shall be Mello -Roos or other types of determine whether funding streams may be used for school facili ' es. The following alternatives available to mitigate significant included in discussions to Sn cant impacts to area schools: Districts have the L411 „ as -Pur agreement between school districts and the state to provide for the construction, tan reconstruction, or replacement of school facilities by the State Allocation Board. First priority for future state funding will go to district traction, enrollment in year- round schools, 2) the ability to raise ial s with 1) a substantial costs, and 3) the opening of a new facility as a year-round school.percent of project Lee -Purchase ArranoP,,,ent Many districts may enter into 1 ..�s - ariangements with private builders of portable classrooms (Section 392 and 39290 of the State Education Code). ease -purchase capital outla ) This method can also be used to finance nce y An additional advantage of lease -purchase agreements is that the offer the benefits of long-term debt financing without obtaining voter special taxes or benefit assessments. y g approval of Mello-Ro s omm nit Facilities Act -Provisions for this fund' located in Government Code Section 55311 et. se . Proceedings to declare itself a community facilities d' funding option are q A school district must initiate Act. A community facilities district is defined as tact to benefit from this established to carry out specific activities within specifically defined governmb tal entity Such a district may engage in the purchase, construction or rehabilitation f any real or tangible property with an estimated useful life of five years or loon . any Mitigation Monitoring/nger. Reporting program A. The City of Palm Desert will consult and cooperate w' Unified School Districts to continue to monitor public schools' P with the Desert Sands and Palm Springs and to determine the extent of overcrowding, security issues to tests, and other adverse impacts on area schools. In the General Plan study area, Responsible Parties: w Performance on standardized Unified School District, Palm Springs Unity DDe elo ment Department, City School District Council, Desert Sands 11I-159 Libraries Public services and Facilities Library 1• Existing Conditions Section ITT _ TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR and Mitigation Measures Palm De-e, r c ib ry The Palm Desert Public Library is a branch of the Riverside County Library System and is located 300 Fred Waring Drive. The library encompasses approximately 20,000 square feet of a 40,00o at are foot facility, which it shares with the College of the Desert Library. Although their books and square re physically separated, the two libraries have a reciprocity agreement sources database and checkout desk. The Palm Desert Public Library contain approxim el az75n1000 ine volumes and is staffed by five full-time employees, 15 part-time employees, and approximate) 35 volunteers. volumes The library operates a youth story -time program and adult computer classes, and supports the nteers. County - Wide Literacy Program, which is managed from the Indio Public Library, PP County - The Palm Desert Public Library is amulti-agency facility, System. Each year, approximately 2.7% of the City' 1% Property tax rt f revenueeisidaidot R Library County for basic library operations and services. The City also allocates General Fund revenues P o Riverside for additional library services, which are above and beyond those provided under the Count cont pay Specifically, these funds cover expenses for three additional hours of operation on Thursdays, . volunteer program and coordinator, special events programs, and a special events coordinator. Thursdays, a oIle of the De ert Libr ry The College of the Desert (COD) opened its on -campus library concurrent with the aforeme community library in January, 1996. As described above, the library shares a building and reciprocity d agreement with the Palm Desert Public Library. All library services are available to COD students and the general public. The COD Library contains more than 50,000 volumes. Other features in computer lab, local history room, children's story room, community meeting room and semin elude a The City is responsible for funding a portion of ongoing maintenance and structural improvementsenrooms. library, to the Thou_ t_ au n Halm- >.,hr� - lbrary The Thousand Palms Branch of the Riverside County Library is located at 72-715 La Canada Way. The library is staffed by one full-time branch manager, two part-time employees, and eight volunteers. Special community programs include children's story -time, crafts and reading clubs. The County amyand d residents of Thousand Palms are raising funds and applying for grants with hope of constructing Permanent library facility in about 2005 or 2006. The new facility would be located on a donated arc a of land on Robert Road.parcel 2• Project Impacts The County of Riverside seeks to maintain an unadopted standard of 2 volumes and 0. library space per capita.5 Buildout of the General Plan is anticipated to generate approximately feet of PP ately 148,387 s Gary Christmas, Riverside County Librarian, personal communication March, 2000. III-160 1 ifPublic !rvices and Facilities Police"'' TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing ts6Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures residen. Based on this projected population and the County's unado t General Plan study area will require about 74,194 square feet of library b ary sl of service standards, the volumes at buildout. It should be noted that, General Plan buildout Population P and about 296,774 levels of development in the General Plan study area, ependent upon actual 3• Mitigation Measures A. Th e City and County shall continue to monitor and evaluate the existing usage services provided at the libraries in the General Plan study area to dete rate and level of additional services and facilities. rmine the need for B. The City shall consult and coordinate with Riverside County to determin fees necessary to provide adequate library services. a appropriate mitigation Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting program A. The City and County shall continue to monitor library needs and utilizati library services to the residents of the General Plan study area, on to provide essential Responsible Parties: City Manage, County Librarian Police Protection 1• Existing Conditions The City of Palm Desert contracts with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department services. The City Police Department operates out of the Palm Desert Station 1 Waring Drive. The Palm Desert Station also functions as the S P ment for police protection Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells, and unincorporated Count located at 73-520 Fred Sheriff's base of operations for the cities of including the Thousand Palms and Sky Valle cos. Y lands west of Washington Street, the Bermuda Dunes community, are served by staff based at the Indio Statios east of n ftheStreet, including Sheriff's Department. ion of the Riverside County Police protection services are provided to the City on a 24-hour daily basis. force comprises a total of 70 sworn officers and provides about 1.75 sworn 1,000 residents, which is comparable to the regional Provides average Y s. The Palm Desert police Protection. The average response time for the highest Priority officers for every olive and provides an effective level of police p my emergency calls (code 1) is 4.6 minutes. 2• Project Impacts Adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan cool Population of approximately 148,387 residents.' The proposed General Potentially la entiall staffing ratio of at least 1.5 sworn officers per 1,000 residents. In o y generate a buildout n intends to provide apolice- rder to meet this preferred ratio at �' Based on exiting and potential new dwelling units associated with proposed household, added to the existing Ci P posed General Plan buildout, and 2.43 persons per household, g ty Population of43,917 and Planning area population of22,756. Pu, Le Services and Facilities Fire r Section III — FYicti., I r cm TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Ed Mitigation Measures Propose Fire St_ ailed. The City has begun setting aside funds for a new fire station to be constructed in the vicinity of Street and Interstate-10. The station will provide additional fire protection coverage to develo Cook this vicinity, including the Coachella Valley Campus of California State University, San Bernardi in dino actual construction schedule will depend upon future levels of development. (CSUSB). It is anticipated that the station would be constructed within the next five years, howeverthe the Fire Mars all Services One of the most important services provided by the Fire Department to t he City is hat ofFre Marshal, who is responsible for providing project review services for adequate access, buildingh siting and internal circulation for fire and other emergency vehicles, the need for sprinklers and minimum f flows from hydrants, and other design issues associated with fire protection. The Fire Marshal ire coordinates department fire inspectors, who inspect each commercial building in the City at least once each year. The Fire Marshal and inspection staff are provided office space at Station 50 in Ran ce Mirage and serve the three contract cities. Cho 2• Project Impacts Continued development and population growth in the General Plan study area is anticipated to increase demand for fire protection services. Additional fire protection services will include increase in staffing, firefighters, fire stations, fire trucks, and rescue vehicles. Increased demand for fire protection associated with development in rural areas of the General Plan study area will also involve expansion P services of water mains and the provision of new fire hydrants. Additional fire protection services could result significant costs to the City. As with police department costs, increases in propertyand sale n a revenues will provide funding sources for increased service. As the General Plan study area builds out,it will be necessary to evaluate these impacts to fire protection services. 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City shall contin ue to promote close coordination with the Fire Department for the timely expansion of services and facilities. B. The Fire Department p ment shall continue to maintain mutual aid agreements with the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells for additional fire protection support. C. The Fire Department shall continue to review new development proposals a nd Department's capacity to provide sufficient fire protection services. This hall inclu eabutss the limited to, review of internal circulation patterns, street names and numberings stems. is not D. y The City and the Fire Department shall continue to enforce fire codes and other applicable standards and regulations during review of building plans and conducting building inspections. P ons. 111-165 E. F. Public Services ..r' and Facilities Fire Section HT The siting of industrial facilities which involy TN/City of Pain Desert Draft General Plan EIIt and Mitigation Measures ble or materials shall be conducted in a manner that will ensure he highest evel of safe explosive conformance with the Uniform Fire Code and other applicable regulations. �' in strict Coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water C to assure adequate water supplies and pressure for existing and proposed development. Company Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Riverside County Fire Dep artment shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with all applicable fire protection requirements. Responsible Parties: Riverside County Fire Department Health Care Facilities and Services 1• E-Asting Conditions In addition to a number of local physicians' offices and urgent care facilities, several large facilities are located in the vicinity of the General Plan study area. A discussion of ma or health care facilities is provided below. for health care The Eisenhower Medical Center on Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is the closest me the subject property. The medical center complex encompasses 98t acres consistingof sehc� facility to which include the Eisenhower Medical Center, he Annenberg Center for World Health eral facilities, Betty Ford Center for Chemical Dependency, the Dolores Hope Outpatient Care Center Sciences, the Sinatra Children's Center. The medical center currently has 261 beds, an intensiveand the Barbara emergency room. The complex also includes the Community Blood Bank and other office and research care unit and buildings. The Andrew Allen Surgical Pavilion is a state-of-the-art medical surgical operating rooms. g facility with ten Desert Regional Medical Center is located at 1150 N. Indian Avenue in Palm Springs. It " non-profit hospital that is licensed for 388 beds and has a 24-hour emergency room and Level II Trauma Care facility. The hospital has a Home Health Care department that is a private, household maintenance services. It also includes the Hospice of the Desert Co ums provides in -home nursing care and services for the terminally ill. The Comprehensive Cancer Center of the Desert is a de Communities, which offers Desert Regional Medical Center, which provides services to cancer individuals. department of the ls. John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital islocated at 47-111 Monroe Street in Indio. In addition to the many medical and health services offered at JFK, a 24-hour emergency room and a wide v and outpatient services are also available. The hospital, with its recent buildingaddanety of inpatient licensed for 162 beds and includes 16 beds in the ICU unit and 24 beds in the medi caUstrgic currently urgical unit. III- l66 1 Public Vervices and Facilities Health care TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing ConditiPlan EIR ons, Impacts drMitigaaft t onGeneralMeasures 2• Project Impacts Builout of the proposed General Plan is not expected to have any significant adverse impacts on the medical facilities in the area. As independent facilities, Valley hospitals will continue to plan for growth in order to accommodate population increases associated with the implementation of the pro s d General Plan. It is expected that all three of the Valley hospitals will expand as needs are iden fie and that regional health care facilities will be able to adequately service the future population. 3• Mitigation Measures Regional and local medical dical health care facilities will continue to plan for growth, and therefore no mitigation measures are necessary. Solid Waste Mana gement 1• Existing Conditions Solid waste collection and disposal services are provided by Waste Management of the Desert through an exclusive franchise agreement with the City of Palm Desert. Waste Management also serves the Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes and Sky Valley communities, which are within the General Plan stud area. Commercial pick-up is offered up to six daysresY per week. Waste Management offers additional services t large waste generators, including dential pick-up is typically once retailers, hotels and resorts. g Trash collected in the City and planning area is disposed at the Edom Hill Landfill, ap roximatel miles northwest of the Palm Desert city limits. The landfill is owned and operated by River ' Y four Y side and accepts waste from most Coachella Valley communities. The current operating County, maximum of 2,651 tons of waste per day. During 2000, the landfill receiv d an average of 1,295 tonws for per day. In March 2000, the remaining capacity of the landfill was approximately 4.5 million cubic yards. The landfill is nearing its maximum capacity and is expected to close in 2004. The City of Palm Desert and other Coachella Valley communities are actively planning for and selectin viable alternative landfill sites. Alternatives considered include Eagle Mountain Landfill Mes g Landfill, Badlands Landfill, Lamb Canyon and the El Sobrante Landfills. Mesquite In 1997, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the Eagle Mountain Recycling Center. The landfill will encompass 2,164 acres and a total capacity of 708 millintonLandfill and a life expectancy of 100 years. Litigation has delayed construction of the Eagle Mountain Landfill n tons with Recycling Center, therefore, the City must continue to pursue other options for the imme utue. and immediate future. The Mesquite Landfill in Imperial County is also being purchased by the Los Angeles C District and is expected to have a capacity similar to that of the g ounty Sanitation construction is also being delayed by litigation, and the future of both these landfills remains uncMountain lear. .Its � ar. 11I-167 Pu7 'c Services and Facilities *.r/ Wastewater TN/City of Palm Desert Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts a draft Mit gat onlMeasures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department shall maintain close contact with project developers to assure the provision and maintenance of recycling containers that correspond with current City programs and those planned in the future. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Waste Management of the Desert Wastewater Collection and Treatment 1• Existing Conditions Wastewater collection and treatment services are provided by the Coachella Valley Water District to e City of Palm Desert, and majority of the General Plan study area. Wastewater is transmitted throughsewer trunk lines generally ranging in size from 4 to 24 inches, relying w. Effluent from the City is conveyed to CVWD's Cook Street treatment y plant (Water ec gravity flow. No. 10), which has a current capacity of 18 million gallons P (Water Reclamation Plant Webb's Sun City and other development north of Miles Avenue s conveyed dent nto thetreatment s, Del plant located at Madison Street and Avenue 38 (Water Reclamation Plant No. 7). This plant treats approximately 2.4 million gallons of wastewater per day, and has a capacity of 5 million gallons CVWD continually increases the capacity of its plants by constructing new treatment ponds, aerationy plants and other structures. While much of the General Plan study area is connected to CVWD's sewer system, several areas still rely on septic systems for wastewater disposal. These areas include Sky Valley and scattered residential development in the Thousand Palms area. Wastewater contains contaminants, such as nitrogen, bacteriaa and organic chemicals that have the potential to degrade the quality of groundwater and render it unsuitable for human consumption. The long-term use of septic tanks has been associated with contamination of groundwater supplies in limited areas of the Coachella Valley. In 1994, the City adopted Chapter 8.60 of the Municipal Code, an ordinance which requires all Properties, buildings and structures to abandon existing septic tanks, seepage pits and/or cesspools and to connect to the available public sewer system prior to the sale or transfer of ownership. The sewer connection ordinance also establishes a certificate of compliance process to document abandonin of the on -lot system and connection to the community sewer system. g Tertiary Treated Water In an effort to alleviate the impacts of development the use of tertiaryP on groundwater supplies, CVWD has implemented (third stage) treated wastewater for use in golf course, landscape and other irrigation. percolation ponds, with passage through sands and soils providing a final stage of filtration. Tertiary Wastewater is typically treated to secondary levels and reintroduced into the groundwater table through treated water undergoes an additional stage of treatment, making it immediately suitable for irri at purposes and decreasing, to some extent, the demand for groundwater resources. g on III-170 a I PubfW Services and Facilities *4000� 'Wastewater TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts drMitigation Meaasuan Ereess The Cook Street wastewater treatment plant has a tern ary water (mgd). The Cook Street plant generates from 1.2 to 7.8 d of tert capacity of 15 million gallons per day being approximately 4.4 mgd. The treatment plant at Madison Street and Avenu g ary treated water, with the average to 2.5 mgd of tertiary treated water, and has a maximum current capacity of e 38 T generates from 0.8 for expansion to treat 5 mgd within the next few yew, his plant is planned 2• Project Impacts Buildout of the proposed General Plan will result in an increased demand collection and treatment facilities. Domestic wastewater flows average about 100 existing wastewater day.9 Based on this factor and the estimated buildout 148,387 residents, the General Plan � gallons per capita per Population of study area has the potential to generate approximately 14,838,700 gallons of waste wastewater generation rates will be dependent upon future levels of development. water per day. Actual The increase in demand for wastewater collection and treatment services at Gen represent a potential significant increase over the current level of service provided. However, the General Plan study area is anticipated to occur gradually, General Plan buildout may increase in demand to wastewater collection and treatment services w' u buildout of g lly, therefore it is safe to assume that the Nonetheless, it is necessary that the City and the Coachella Valley WaerDis riot co experienced at one time. growth trends in the General Plan study area to assure that wastewater services are a to determine the need and funding for additional facilities. tract continue to monitor adequate, as well as 3• Mitigation Measures A. All development shall be connected Possible. Septic systems shall be prohibited twhere soil he 1 conditions de sewer system, r the greatest extent o not permit percolation. B. The City shall investigate and evaluate alternative methods of finsncmg a city-wide sewer p system and converting existing septic systems to sewer, including redevelo ment funds, assessments and other funding mechanisms. C. The City shall cooperate and coordinate with the Coachella Valle Water adequate wastewater collection and treatment facilities ate provided y District to assure that General Plan study area, . P ed to serve development in the D. The City shall coordinate with Coachella Valley Water District to monitor the demand for tertiary treated water within the General Plan study area, and shall invest' ate Providing tertiary treated water as demand warrants. g the feasibility of 9 « Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook," prepared by John G. Rau and David C. Wooten 1980. [II-171 Public Nwovices and Facilities *4W Wastewater TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions Draft General Plan EIR pacts and Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program Mitigation Measures A. The City Community Development Department with the Coachella Valley Water District level p pbans folic �im implerks shall menting and coordinate service. P ttng city-wide sewer Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Cit Publi Department, Coachella Valley Water District Y c Works Domestic Water Services 1• Existing Conditions Coachella Valley Water District The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) City of Palm Desert, including Thousand WD) Provides and Ddomestic Sun Citervices to the majority of the to extract groundwater from the Whitewater River Subbasin. C Y CVWD utilizes deep wells serves the City, includes SO wells with an average depth of 90�0 VfeDets CVWD also has system,omestic water totwhich reservoirs serving the General Plan study area, with an average capacity of 1.8 million gallons. Some of 27 these reservoirs may also serve pressure zones which extend beyond the stud area. The°mi of main or trunk) water lines are generally located along section lines, with smaller lines bra largest (i.e., individual sections. branching into The Coachella Valley Water District also provides domestic water services to the Sky Valley community, in the northern portion of the General Plan planning area. Due to high concentrations undesirable minerals, CVWD does not extract water for domestic use from the Dese Springs of rt Subbasin, which underlies the community of Sky Valley. Rather, water deliveryinfr Hot Springs area includes main lines that transmit water from CVWD wells located in the Mission structure in this west of Palm Drive. Creek Subbasin Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company The Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company community, except for development along Wash ng on Streetrovides swh h istic rse served b services to the Bermuda Dunes wells, drilled to depths of 750 to 800 feet, can each produce 1,700 to 3,200 gallons of Y VWD. Its five active minute. Three of the production wells discharge water directly into the water distribution s ble water per conveys water through distribution water mains ranging in size from 4 to 12 inches in diameter. Th system, which other wells deliver water directly into a water reservoir near the intersection of 41s` a two Hermitage Drive. The reservoir has a capacity of one million gallons. Myoma Dunes Avenue and well, which is used solely by the Bermuda Dunes Airport and is not connected to the operates a sixth system. water delivery 2• Project Impacts J Continued increases in water demand generated by ggroundwater development in the Coachella Valley, including the General Plan study area, could have significant cumulative impacts on the re ion's The Coachella Valley Water District has developed water usage factors for ay variety 1 PP Y• of land uses,, based III-172 Pr''ic Services and Facilities D&Wstic slater TN/City of Palm Desert Draft Section III —Existing Conditions, Im acts d MitigationlPlan EIR Measures on usage per acre. Table III-46 illustrates these factors, and the associated acreages ' Plan study area. g within the General Table III-46 General Plan Table Water Consum tion Annual Consumption Total Annual evelo ment Tvna Factor (ac- Consumptio If Course Developments and Large t1/ac/ r Acres (ac-ft! r) esidential Lots C 0.5 ac) A artrnents and Condominiums 7'3 24,504 180,349 esidential (Lots < 0.5 ac) 6.0 3,795 24,136 otels and Motels 14,698 89,511 usiness Offices 8•7 329 2,882 asoline Stations 5.85 919 5,376 Su Market Sho in Centers. 5.12 - ublic Schools 4.81 186 895 etail Sho ing Areas 3.3 521 2,261 ndustrial Parks & Auto Dealers .05 1,454 4,435 Total 2.47 1,100 2,717 47,506 312,562 According to CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the General Plan will result in usage of 312,562 acre feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum buildout of all land uses, and is therefore expected to be conservative. It should be noted that increases in water consumption will occur radu over the life of the General Plan study area. Actual impacts to domestic water services are de ally, upon the levels and types of development that will occur in the General Plan study area. Pendent Section III-E provides a comprehensive discussion regarding impacts t the General Plan study area. P o water resources and quality in 3• Mitigation Measures A. All future development projects shall be reviewed by the City, Coachella V or Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Compan alley Water District activities on local groundwater resources.y to evaluate potential impacts of development B. The City shall require the development of enhance infiltration of runoff and the replenishment tof g oundwater Bubb ion/detention basins to e stowater rims. C. The City, Coachella Valley Water District, and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water encourage the use of drought tolerant landscaping in public and private develop ent as a e mans of water conservation. All development plans shall be required to adhere to th means ordinance. City's landscape III-173 Public ser Ices and Facilities Domestic %%,ter TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Draft Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures D. The City shall encourage and/or require the installation of IOW -flush showerheads and faucets in all new construction, in conformance with Section1lets17921 3 oflow Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601 f the applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code.(b), and Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting program A. The Community Development Department shall review all development ro owls t Potential for adverse effects on water quality and quantity. All develop en P ro os assess the required to mitigate any significant impacts. P p als shall be Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Coachella Valle District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company, Developers Y Water Electricity 1• Existing Conditions Southern California Edison Southern California Edison (SCE) provides electricity to the majority of he Palm Desert study area. Its service area includes most of the City of Palm Desert, excludinga Portion General Plan California State University/San Bernardino (CSSB) Coachella Valley Campus site, Avondale of the Club and other limited areas south of US Interstate-10 (see Imperial Irrigation Distric Country below), and lands west of Ford Avenue in Sky Valley. SCE's electric power is rimarit discussion outside the Coachella Valley, however, it does purchase wind -generated power from localproducers. ed SCE's facilities include high -voltage transmission lines, which range up to 115 kilovolts (kv) of Palm Desert and up to 500 kv in the northern portion of the General Plan Planning) in the City voltage distribution lines, which are typically gauged at about 12 kv in the study area,provideea. Lower - to individual residences and other users. Three substations are located within the Citt of p electricity and are used to step down voltage for local distribution. Y alm Desert The substations include: 1) Silver Spur Substation, located south of Haystack Road and wes Avenue; 2) Palm Village Substation, located south of Highway I I I and east of Dee on Can t of d; and 3) Concho Substation, located south of Country Club Drive and east of Cook Street, near the Indian Road; and Ridge Country Club. In addition, some circuits from the Santa Rosa Substation �loc Monterey Avenue and north of Clancy Lane in Rancho Mirage, feed into the Cityof Palm ese west of Desert. Imperial Irrigation District Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is a non-profit, community -owned utility district that in Imperial County and parts of Riverside and San Diego counties. IID provides electric serves customers limited portion of the Palm Desert General Plan study area, including the Avondale Country service to a of the CSSB Coachella Valley Campus, Sun City, Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dun ountry Club, most portion of Sky Valley. IID obtains its power from a combination of hydroelectric, therm l, the eastern al, diesel, and F I I I 111-174 Pu'c Services and Facilities Electricity TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Im acts andDraft Mitig ton Measures 3• Mitigation Measures A. Developers shall coordinate and cooperate with Southern California Edison and Irrigation District in implementing load management programs which level the demand load on generating capacities. Every effort shall be made to assure the highest level of energy conservation available. gy B. Any proposed development in the General Plan study area shall be subject the Uniform Building Code and Title 24 of the California Administrative Code. a requirements of C. Project developers shall be required to utilize energy efficient design to minimize solar gains and reduce air conditioning loads. summer time D. The use of energy efficient lighting fixtures in developments within the General Pi shall be required. an study area Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting program A. The Community Development Department, Public Works Department, and Building Department shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with Title 24 energy conservation requirements. Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District and the City Community Development Department shall provide developers with rdferences for energy efficient design. y Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, public Works De art Building Department, Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation DistrictP ent, B. Prior to the undergrounding of utility lines, all affected utility companies shall be c detailed information about system restrictions, distract boundaries, and scheduling. ontacted for Responsible Parties: Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District Verizon California, The Gas Company, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Duner Companys Mutual Water Natural Gas 1• Existing Conditions The Southern California Gas (SCG) Company provides natural gas services and facilities t Palm Desert and its General Plan study area. Locally used natural gas originates in o the City iof s transported to the Coachella Valley via three east -west trending high pressure gas transmission Texas and is which cross the valley just north of Interstate-10 and continue west to Los Angeles. The lines, one 30-inch line and two 24-inch lines, with pressures of 2,000 pounds per square inch si lines include (psi). Within the General Plan study area, high pressure gas lines are located beneath Washington Highway 111, Sierra del Sol (serving Thousand Palms), and Dillon Road (servingSky Valey) Street, are typically steel lines with pressures of 300 psi. The Washington Street and Sierra del Sol li These directly into the major transmission lines north of I-10. Medium pressure distribution lines a1 lines tap re located I1I-176 1 Publ- Services and Facilities NatV%w,& Gas TN/Cit y of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditiaft General Plan EIR ons, Impacts and rMitigation Measures within the rights -of -way of Country Club Drive, Fred Waring Drive, Mont erey Avenue and Highway 74. These lines range from 38 to 42 psi, and are typically constructed of , Cook Street, although older lines may be made of steel. 4-inch plastic, Although most of g the City of Palm Desert is connected to the natural gas system, lands west of the Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, parallel to Highway 74, are not serve. Residents in this area use propane d gas as an alternative fuel source. The Gas Company estimates the average household in its service area consumes 6,600 natural gas per month. Table IH-48 illustrates natural gas consum cubic feet of Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQIVID), ption factors established by the South Table III.48 Natural Gas Consum tion Factors Land Use Monthly Co Single Family Residentinsumption Rate al Multiple Family Residential 6,665.0 cf/unit/month Retail/Shopping Center 4,011.5 cf/sq.ft./month Office 2.9 cf/ sq.ft /month Hotel/Motel 2.0 cf/ sq.ft /month Industrial 4.8 cf/ sq.ft /month Note: Industrial usage factor used is equivalent to the highest commercial usage factor Provided by SCAQMD. Source: SCAQMD Air Quality Handbook A 9, A ni 1993 Q ty Appendix to Chapter 2• Project Impacts An increase in demand for natural gas services is anticipated as the General Plan st Natural gas consumption is estimated at 614,046,131 cubic feet per month udy area builds out. at General Plan buildout. This figure represents both existing and future developments in the General Plan study area, buildout at moderate densities. Actual natural gas consumption will be determined b f and assumes development, individual project designs, and the effectiveness of energy-conservingY future levels of s. Development facilitated by the proposed General Plan will increase the rate oonsumpti measures. renewable source and will contribute to cumulative impacts on the long-term availability However, General Plan buildout, in and of itself, is not expected consumption of this non - supplies or the provider's ability to deliver it. P cted to significantly impact natural gas 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City shall strictly enforce Title 24 of the California Administrativ energy conservation in new developments. e Code, which addresses B. Developers shall install the most efficient furnaces, water heaters, equipment that use natural gas. Developers shall also encourage theuse of kitchen and other and III-177 Publ' Services and Facilities Natv*,,;l Gas **Wr TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures that utilize natural gas and shall investigate the possibility of using alternative e including solar and co -generation technologies. nergy, sources, Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A• The Community Development and Public Works Department shall inspectall detailed project plans to assure conformance with Title 24 energy conservation code require Community Development Department shall coordinate with The Gas Companymentr. The developers with references for energy efficient design.to provide Responsible Parties; City Community Development Department, Public Works The Gas Company Department, Telephone Service 1• Existing Conditions Verizon California provides local residential and business telephone services to th area. The Verizon California headquarter is in Thousand Oaks, however local customer s are located in the cities of Palm Springs and Indio. Verizo a General Plan study special features, including local and long distance services, calling services include a variety of basic and service facilities voicemail, as well as state-of-the-art data services such as internet and high-speed g cards, business 800 numbers, and The General Plan study area includes three central switching DS L connections. the communications system and are responsible for the connection of telephone anfunctd as the backbone of Central offices are located in Palm Desert, on the north side of Highway 11 between data transmissions. Juan Avenues; in Bermuda Dunes, on the east side of Washington Street at Avenue in Thousand Palms, on the west side of Arbol Real, between L ween San Jose and San the Sky Valley area are handled out of a central switchingoffice a Canada Way and Ramon Road. States;and to in Desert Hot Springs. 2• Project Impacts Growth facilitated by the proposed General Plan will generate additional de infrastructure and will require the expansion of telephone services to areas no However, no significant impacts are anticipated with the implementation demands on existing that will affect the ability of Verizon, California to provide telecommunication of the proposed General Plan t currently served. Plan study area. services in the General 3• Mitigation Measures A. Developers shall provide required right-of-way for new Verizon conduit telephone services to their sites. t systems to provide I J II1-178 Sorio—EconOmic Resources Mid % ,,,ation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan Section III —Existing ConditioIR ns, Impacts and Mitigation Measur Persons are likely to purchase their homes, and will occupy units built on lands residential, which will generate an additional 24,905 units in the City, and designated 6 lgnated Low Density and planning area. 1 units in the Sphere In comparison with the Current General Plan, which has the potential to generate g high density units within the City limits, and 15,570 medium and high densityn t medium and planning area, the Preferred Alternative land use plan represents an i units in the Sphere and the City to house its employees in the Medium and High Density Resident n us d usal lathe potential for land the alone. 3• Mitigation Measures The Draft General Plan includes a number of policies which will serve to guide health in the next several ears. Y The City's aggressive economic developm facilitate the creation of jobs and associated revenues. policy will 'conroue to A. The City shall monitor the employment enerate periodically analyse this generation in comparison itsby commercialthe lresiden residential land use allocations to land uses, and encourage the provision of adequate housing for as many of its workers as practical.B • The City shall evaluate new development or redevelopment to assu complement, support and are compatible with the City's core economic a se Sre that these uses C. The City shall consider economic implications of annexations as art of annexation requests. P the approval process for D. The City shall continue to encourage the development o f hotels, resort hotels and timeshare projects in the City. P E. The City shall continue to encourage the development of new and ex of all levels in the City. paraded educational facilities F. The City shall be aggressive in its retention of existing businesses a businesses that complement the City's core economic assets. rid recruitment of new G. The City shall coordinate its Capital Improvement plans to assure infrastructure to support and facilitate development of co the provision of adequate which expand the City's economic base. mmercia1 and light industrial projects H. All projects shall contribute their fair share of on- a their site. rid off -site improvements required to support I• The City shall routinely review and revise, as necessary, the allocation of revenues required to Mitigate the impacts of growth. w III-203 Socio—Economic Resources Irii tig �,,)n Measures * *00 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures J. Prior to any annexation effort, the City shall evaluate the feasibility of annexing land to assure its economic and fiscal viability. K. The City Zoning Ordinance and Development Code shall be updated, revised and expanded to assure analysis regimes and standards and guidelines that assure adequate protection of the City's core economic interests and especially the preservation of the natural environment. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program A. The City shall continue to monitor economic growth and focus its Economic Development efforts in areas of retail, resort and educational services. Responsible Parties: City Council, Redevelopment Agency, City Manager. B. The City shall analyse land use development patterns annually, and determine whether amendments to the land use map are required to encourage a balance of housing and jobs. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department C. The City shall prepare economic feasibility analyses for all potential annexation efforts, as part of the decision -making process for annexations. Responsible Parties: City Council, City Manager, Community Development Department. III-204 cm En Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District 43-420 Trader Place • Indio, CA 92201 • (760) 342-8287 • Fax (760) 342-8110 E-mail: CVmosquito@cvmvcd.org • Website: www.cvmvcd.org Board of Trustees September 28, 2006 " ' Tr President Attn: Mr. Phil Drell " U ` 20M JOHN FUSCHETTI Rancho Mirage Director of Community Development tyCOMA t '� E City of Palm Desert CITY OF , ,L.,: �w ..> Vice President 73 -5 10 Fred Waring Drive JUAN DE LAM Coachella Palm DesertCA 92260 Secretary(Treasurer MIKEIndio Subject: Comments regarding Notice of intent to adopt Mitigated Negative PAUL S. MARCHAND Declaration for Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 , in the City of Palm Desert, Riverside Cathedral City County, California KARL BAKER, JR. Dear Mr Drell, Desert Hot Springs BRUCE UNDERWOOD, Dr. P.H. Thank you for the opportunity to express our position and concerns in reference to Indian Wells the proposed Declaration. The District offers the following comments on potential RON PERKINS impact of the project on the local environment and suggested mitigated measures. La Quinta The Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (the District) is a ART McKAY special agency governed by the California Health and Safety Code. Our mission Palm Desert is to reduce the risk from disease carried by mosquitoes and other vectors for SHARON residents in the Coachella Valley. The major concern of the District is interruption LOCK Palm Springs of the West Nile virus (WNV) in the Coachella Valley. Mosquito species that are present in the Valley are the major vectors of the WN, and other arborviruses such BEN LAFLIN County at Large as Saint Louis (SL) and Western Equine (WE) viruses that may cause serious NICK NIGOSIAN, JR. infections in humans and animals, and in some cases death. The population growth in the Valley will undoubtedly increase the potential for vector problems, County at Large creating additional health and nuisance issues for residents and management of DONALD E. GOMSI each city and the Mosquito and Vector Control District. General Manager Mosquitoes Urbanization and water runoff will create concerns of breeding mosquitoes and provide water to other vectors. The new buildings and renovations of existing buildings, new street gutters, catch basins, retention and percolation basins, dry wells, etc., will be added to establish drainage systems. These structures function to drain street run-off water, and then percolate into the ground. If improperly designed and/or maintained, water which stands more than 5-7 days in any component of the system could create mosquito breeding problems under desert climate conditions. In order to ensure the efficiency of the drainage system (i.e.; proper slopes in gutters and channels, permeable bottoms at percolation basins terf and dry wells), the District recommends that the construction follows the guidelines of structural Best Managing Practices (BMPs). For information on BMP's guidelines refer to www.cabmDhandbooks com, www.stormwaterautority or and www.bmpdatabase.ora. Additionally, regular maintenance schedules must be incorporated into the development plan, in percolation basins. Increasingly stringent urban stormwater runoff regulations have recently mandated the construction of structural Best Management Practices (BMPs), for both volume reduction and pollution management. The District strongly supports the BMPs with the purpose to prevent, reduce, or eliminate mosquito breeding from stormwater management structures. It is evident that some structures could be improved if vector issues start to be considered prior to construction. The District staff should be directly involved in development and implementation of BMPs for the construction and maintenance of economically efficient, biologically acceptable, and environmentally compatible storm water management structures. Synanthropic Flies There are a number of pest species that can become major problems within the city if breeding conditions are created and persist, most often by human neglect or indifference. Improper disposal of grass clippings from the green belts and other organic wastes associated with the development could cause breeding of a number of synanthropic flies. Eye Gnats in the Valley have a history of being a serious nuisance as well as a health problem by vectoring "pink eye" to residents. They breed in organic material within moist soil of flowerbeds, greenbelts, and vegetative accumulations such as improperly disposed grass clippings. Flies can become a serious pest problem during warm weather. Major suburban breeding sources are open or improperly sealed trash containers and accumulations of animal refuse, most often, the lack of timely removal of dog dung, which can become a local sanitary problem as well as a major source for fly breeding. The District recommends collecting trash twice a week instead of once, and implementing a program that monitors the physical condition of all trash cans while it is being collected with rapid replacement of damaged cans and covers to maintain effective trash containment and fly exclusion. Rodents Roof rats are becoming an ever-increasing suburban problem throughout the entire valley. Harborage or shelter is often provided through improper or poorly groomed and maintained shrubbery and trees, accumulations of wood, ignored stored vehicles or other structures outside. Once rodents move into a 1#4.r Nw neighborhood or commercial business property, they can quickly become established as a nuisance and health problem. The house mouse for example, can invade the homes and businesses through holes as little as '/4 inch in diameter. The District recommends during construction and completion of any building, proper seals should be made in all of the walls where wiring, plumbing, etc.; run through. Rodent food sources can be pet food left out overnight, abundant numbers of cockroaches or snails around the yard, and ripe fruit allowed to fall and accumulate on the ground. This proactive, rather than reactive approach to the prevention of potential vector problems will ultimately result in cost savings, minimize long term vector production and associated surveillance and control, and ensure compliance with health and safety codes by working together to obtain source reduction and exclusion methods. The District is also proposing to increase communication and collaboration between all interested agencies, especially the Lead Agency (City of Palm Desert), The Coachella Valley Water District and our District. If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. Thank you for your cooperation. Sincerely, f Gerald Chuzel Fishery & Environmental Biologist cc: Don Gomsi- General Manager Branka B. Lothrop, PhD -Scientific Operational Manager SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION of GOVERNMENTS Main Office 818 West Seventh Street 12th Floor Los Angeles, California 90017-3435 t (213) 236-1800 IF (213) 236-1825 www.scag.ca.gov Officers: President: Yvonne B. Burke, Los Angeles County • First Vice President: Gary Ovitt, San Bernardino County - Second Vice President: Richard Dixon, Lake Forest - Immediate Past President: Toni Young, Port Hueneme Imperial County: Victor Carrillo, Imperial County - Jon Edney, El Centro Los Angeles County: Yvonne B. Burke, Los Angeles County - Zev Yaroslaysky, Los Angeles County - Jim Aldinger, Manhattan Reach - Harry Baldwin, San Gabriel - Paul Bowlen, Cerritos - Todd Campbell. Burbank - Tony Cardenas, Los Angeles - Stan Carroll, La Habra Heights - Margaret Clark, Rosemead - Gene Daniels, Paramount - Mike Dispenza, Palmdale - Judy Dunlap, Inglewood - Rae Gabelich, Long Beach - David Gatin, Downey - Eric Garcetti, Los Angeles • Wendy Greuel, Los Angeles • Frank Gurule, Cudahy - Janice Hahn, Los Angeles •Isadore Hall, Compton • Keith W. Hanks, Azusa • lose Huizat, Los Angeles - Tom LaBonge, Los Angeles • Paula Lantz, Pomona - Paul Nowatka, Torrance - Pam O'Connor, Santa Monica - Alex Padilla, Los Angeles • Bernard Parks, Los Angeles - Jan Perry, Los Angeles • Ed Reyes, Los Angeles - Bill Rosendahl, Los Angeles - Greig Smith, Los Angeles - Tom Sykes, Walnut - Paul Talbot, Alhambra - Mike Ten, South Pasadena - Tonia Reyes Uranga, Long Beach • Antonio Villaraigosa, Los Angeles - Dennis Washburn, .ala `mesas • Jack Wyss, Los Angeles Wesson, JL, Los Angeles - Dennis Zine, Los Angeles Orange County: Chris Norby, Orange County - Christine Barnes, La Palma - John Beauman, Brea - Lou Bone, Tustin - Art Brown, Buena Park • Richard Chavez, Anaheim - Debbie Cook, Huntington Beach - Leslie Daigle, Newport Beach - Richard Dixon, Lake Forest • Paul Glaab, Laguna Niguel - Marilynn Poe, Los Alamitos Riverside County: Jeff Stone, Riverside County - Thomas Buckley, Lake Elsinore - Bonnie Flickinger, Moreno Valley - Ron loveridge, Riverside • Greg Pettis, Cathedral City - Ron I V Oi,T011. "M September 28, 2006 AEST Mr. Phil Drell CITY OF Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 RE: SCAG Clearinghouse No. 1 20060598 Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 Dear IVti . Di ell: Thank you for submitting the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 for review and comment. As areawide clearinghouse for regionally significant projects, SCAG reviews the consistency of local plans, projects and programs with regional plans. This activity is based on SCAG's responsibilities as a regional planning organization pursuant to state and federal laws and regulations. Guidance provided by these reviews is intended to assist local agencies and project sponsors to take actions that contribute to the attainment of regional goals and policies. We have reviewed the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02, and have determined that the proposed Project is not regionally significant per SCAG Intergovernmental Review (IGR) Criteria and California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines (Section 15206). Therefore, the Proposed Project does not warrant comments at this time. Should there be a change in the scope of the proposed Project, we would appreciate the opportunity to review and comment at that time. A description of the proposed Project was published in SCAG's August 16-31, 2006 Intergovernmental Review Clearinghouse Report for public review and ccmr,re nt. The project title and SCAG Clearinghouse number should be used in al correspondence with SCAG concerning this Project. Correspondence should be sent to the attention of the Clearinghouse Coordinator. If you have any questions, please contact me at (213) 236-1857. Thank you. Sincerely, Roberts, Temecula San Bernardino County: Gary Ovitt, San Bernardino County • Lawrence Dale, Barstow Paul Eaton, Montclair • lee Ann Garcia, Grand.. Terracen,Highland-ownoah Robelleyrtson Riarry � ERNE JONES McCallan, Highland •Deborah Robertson Ri II ao •Alan Wapner, Ontario Planning Technician Ventura County: Judy Mikels, Ventura County • Glen Becerra, Simi Valley • Carl Morehouse, San Intergovernmental Review Buenaventura • Toni Young, Port Hueneme Orange County Transportation Authority: Lou Correa, County of Orange Riverside County transportation Commission: Robin Lowe, Hemet Ventura County Transportation Doc #126803 Commission: Keith Millhouse, Moorpark WATE& ESTABLISHED IN 1918 AS A PUBLIC AGENCY ��srRi COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT POST OFFICE BOX 1058 • COACHELLA, CALIFORNIA 92236 • TELEPHONE (760) 398-2651 • FAX (760) 398-3711 DIRECTORS: PETER NELSON, PRESIDENT PATRICIA A. LARSON, VICE PRESIDENT TELLIS CODEKAS JOHN W. McFADDEN RUSSELL KITAHARA September 15, 2006 Phil Drell Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Dear Mr. Drell: OFFICERS STEVEN B. ROBBINS, GENERAL MANAGER -CHIEF ENGINEER MARK BEUHLER, ASST. GENERAL MANAGER JULIA FERNANDEZ, SECRETARY DAN PARKS, ASST. TO GENERAL MANAGER REDWINE AND SHERRILL, ATTORNEYS File: 1150.06 cr 2 0 2006 C1TY OF Thank you for affording the Coachella Valley Water District the opportunity to review the Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 project in Palm Desert. At this time, the Coachella Valley Water District has no comments regarding the proposed project. If you have any questions, please contact Luke Stowe, Environmental Specialist, at extension 2545. LS: and\eng\env\06\sept\dre11 Yours very truly, i` Mark L. Johnson Director of Engineering TRUE CONSERVATION USE WATER WISELY STA�ALIIMRNIA or NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION ..µ 915 CAPITOL MALL, ROOM 364 SACRAMENTO, CA 95814 OHS) 653-4082 Web Ske www.nahcFax (916)65 Web wna RECEIVED .q.gov Mr. Phil Drell, Director of Community Development September 7, 2006 Str 12 = City of Palm Desert CONWITY DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT 73-510 Fred Waring Drive CITY OF PALM DESERT Palm Desert, CA 92260 Re: SCH#2006081156; CEQA Notice of Completion: Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Section 29 Master Plan of InfrastructureAssessment District 2004-02• Palm Deserfim Riverside Countv alifomia Dear Mr. Drell: Thank you for the opportunity to comment on the above -referenced document. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires that any project that causes a substantial adverse change in the significance of an historical resource, that includes archeological resources, is a `significant effect requiring the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report (EIR per CEQA guidelines § 15064.5(b)(c). In order to comply with this provision, the lead agency is required to assess whether the project will have an adverse impact on these resources within the area of project effect (APE), and if so, to mitigate that effect. To adequately assess the project - related impacts on historical resources, the Commission recommends the following action: J Contact the appropriate California Historic Resources Information Center (CHRIS). The record search will determine: ■ If a part or the entire APE has been previously surveyed for cultural resources. • If any known cultural resources have already been recorded in or adjacent to the APE. ■ If the probability is low, moderate, or high that cultural resources are located in the APE. ■ If a survey is required to determine whether previously unrecorded cultural resources are present. J If an archaeological inventory survey is required, the final stage is the preparation of a professional report detailing the findings and recommendations of the records search and field survey. • The final report containing site forms, site significance, and mitigation measurers should be submitted immediately to the planning department. All information regarding site locations, Native American human remains, and associated funerary objects should be in a separate confidential addendum, and not be made available for pubic disclosure. ■ The final written report should be submitted within 3 months after work has been completed to the appropriate regional archaeological Information Center. �I Contact the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for. ' A Sacred Lands File (SLF) search of the project area and information on tribal contacts in the project vicinity who may have additional cultural resource information. Please provide this office with the following citation format to assist with the Sacred Lands File search request: USGS 7.5-minute quadrangle citation with name. township range and section• . • The NAHC advises the use of Native American Monitors to ensure proper identification and care given cultural resources that may be discovered. The NAHC recommends that contact be made with Native American Contacts on the attached list to get their input on potential project impact, particularly the contacts of the on the list. J Lack of surface evidence of archeological resources does not preclude their subsurface existence. • Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for the identification and evaluation of accidentally discovered archeological resources, per California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) §15064.5 (Q. In areas of identified archaeological sensitivity, a certified archaeologist and a culturally affiliated Native American, with knowledge in cultural resources, should monitor all ground -disturbing activities. • Lead agencies should include in their mitigation plan provisions for the disposition of recovered artifacts, in consultation with culturally affiliated Native Americans. Lead agencies should include provisions for discovery of Native American human remains or unmarked cemeteries in their mitigation plans. CEQA Guidelines, Section 15064.5(d) requires the lead agency to work with the Native Americans identified by this Commission if the initial Study identifies the presence or likely presence of Native American human remains within the APE. CEQA Guidelines provide for agreements with Native American, identified by the In EM NAHC, to assure the appropriate and dignified treatment of Native American human remains and any associated grave liens. Health and Safety Code §7050.5, Public Resources Code §5097.98 and Sec. §15064.5 (d) of the CEQA Guidelines mandate procedures to be followed in the event of an accidental discovery of any human remains in a location other than a dedicated cemetery. d Lead agencies should consider avoidance as defined in & 15370 of the CEOA Guidelines when sianficant cultural rsources are discovered dunng the course of oroiect planning Please feel free to contact me at (916) 653-6251 if you have any questions. Cc: State Clearinghouse Attachment: List of Native American Contacts Native American Contacts Riverside County September 7, 2006 Cabazon Band of Mission Indians John A. James, Chairperson 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway Cahuilla Indio , CA 92203-3499 Iweaver@cabazonindi (760) 342-2593 (760) 347-7880 Fax Ramona Band of Mission Indians Joseph Hamilton, Vice Chairman P.O. Box 39160 Cahuilla Anza , CA 92539 admin@ramonatribe. (951) 763-4105 (951) 763-4325 Fax Santa Rosa Band of Mission Indians John Marcus, Chairman P.O. Box 609 Cahuilla Hemet , CA 92546 (951) 658-5311 (951) 658-6733 Fax This list Is current only as of the date of this document Cahuilla Band of Indians Anthony Madrigal, Jr., Interim -Chairperson P.O. Box 391760 Cahuilla Anza , CA 92539 tribalcouncil @ cahuilla (951) 763-5549 (909) 763-2808 Fax Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Raymond Torres, Chairperson PO Box 1160 Cahuilla Thermal , CA 92274 (760) 397-0300 (760) 397-8146 Fax Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians Mary Ann Green, Chairperson P.O. Box 846 Cahuilla Coachella , CA 92236 (760) 369-7171 Distribution of this list does not relieve any person of statutory responsibility as defined in Section 7050.5 of the Health and Safety Code, Section 5097.94 of the Public Resources Code and Section 5097.98 of the Public Resources Code. This list Is only applicable for contacting local Native Americans with regard to cultural resources for the SCH#2006081156; CEQA Notice of Completion; Mitigated Negative Declaration; City of Palm Desert Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure for Assessment District 2004-02; Riverside County, California. Native American Contacts Riverside County September 7, 2006 Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians William J. Contreras, Cultural Resources Coordinator Alberto Ramierz, Environmental Coordinator P.O. Box 1160 Cahuilla P.O. Box 1160 Cahuilla Thermal , CA 92274 Thermal , CA 92274 albertor@torresmartin 760) 397-0300 760) 397-0300 (760) 397-8146 Fax (760) 397-8146 Fax Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Richard Milanovich, Chairperson 600 Tahquitz Canyon Way Cahuilla Palm Springs , CA 92262 (760) 325-3400 (760) 325-0593 Fax Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians Karen Kupcha, Tribal Administrator P.O. Box 846 Cahuilla Coachella , CA 92236 (760) 369-7171 This list Is current only as of the date of this document Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Richard Begay, THPO Director 650 Tahquitz Canyon Way Cahuilla Palm Springs , CA 92262 rbegay@aguacaliente (760) 883-1368 (760) 325-6952 Fax Distribution of this list does not relieve any person of statutory responsibility as defined In Section 7050.5 of the Health and Safety Code, Section W97.94 of the Public Resources Code and Section 5097.98 of the Public Resources Code. This list Is only applicable for contacting local Native Americans with regard to cultural resources for the SCH#2008081156; CEQA Notice of Completion; Mitigated Negative Declaration; City of Palm Desert Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure for Assessment District 2004-02; Riverside County, California. In Im STATE OF CALIFORNIA PUBLIC UTILITIES COMMISSION ARNOLD SCHWARZENEGGER, Govemor 320 WEST 4'" STREET, SUITE 500 LOS ANGELES, CA 90013 September 22, 2006 Philip Drell City of Palm Desert 73 -5 10 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92201 Dear Mr. Drell: R i"_1'0'1-`1VPD (a SEP 2 II 2006 'IDW V i)EV CITY OF : >: [ I:'_' Re: SCH# 2006081156; Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The California Public Utilities Commission (Commission) has jurisdiction over the safety of highway -rail crossings (crossings) in California. The California Public Utilities Code requires Commission approval for the construction or alteration of crossings and grants the Commission exclusive power on the design, alteration, and closure of crossings. The Commission is in receipt a copy of the Notice of Completion & Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration from the State Clearinghouse. Commission staff is concerned that this and subsequent projects will cause an increase in traffic and congestion at the nearby highway -rail grade crossing on Monterey Avenue. The City of Palm iL)esert should arrange a meeting with the Commission's Rail Crossings Engineering Section and Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) to discuss relevant safety issues and, if necessary, file a G088-B request for authority to modify an at -grade crossing. If you have any questions, please contact Varouj Jinbachian, Senior Utilities Engineer at 213- 576-7081, vsj@cpuc.ca.gov, or me at rxm@cpuc.ca.gov, 213-576-7078. S XqsIMufloz, PE Ut ties Engineer Rail Crossings Engineering Section Consumer Protection & Safety Division C: Freddy Cheung, UPRR Cm Cm EXHIBIT "B" MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN [see attached] P6401\1033\92158Ivl B-1 cm Lwn Environmental Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 AUTHORITY This Environmental Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program has been prepared pursuant to Section 21081.6 of the California Environmental Quality Act, known as CEQA (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.), to provide for the monitoring of mitigation measures required of the University Park CFD 2005-1 Project, as set forth in the Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for the project. This report will be kept on file in the offices of the City of Palm Desert, 73 -5 10 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California 92260. MONITORING SCHEDULE Prior to the issuance of permits, while detailed development plans are being prepared for approval by City staff, City staff will be responsible for ensuring compliance with mitigation monitoring applicable to the project design phase. City staff will prepare or cause to be prepared reports identifying compliance with mitigation measures. Once construction has begun and is underway, monitoring of the mitigation measures associated with construction will be included in the responsibilities of designated City staff, who shall prepare or cause to be prepared reports of such monitoring periodically until construction has been completed. Once construction has been completed, the City will monitor the project as appropriate and provided in the monitoring plan. FORMAT OF MITIGATION MONITORING MATRIX The mitigation monitoring matrix on the following pages identifies the environmental issue areas for which monitoring is required, the required mitigation measures, the time frame for monitoring, and the responsible monitoring agencies. P6401.1032\864795.4 cm E5 mu O C .0 W O f+ Y O N C Y y- N c N y 0 0 ° a" a m o a� o a� m' O D a D a 0 a' = N 'a moo o a o o a d a E c 1_ • L u j -a O _o j C c a O a o y o V a E c a u u u E N Q a & uN 'L Oi w a .c C Of � '; a c 2- 0. 0. > o y u rn � c V s rn C N — a t � y c o .L L a CL N •O t C O '^ � O a c d O fi (D L a N C -- V N L N r a a a a N V f r vim- a _a) 0)U O Cu 0 a 't 81 Q N - V > a c 0 2 C O V c .j a O .a N 04 G0 N aL O. 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O p=O ° W '"a w d�= c N uN s L F y _0 ° ussW au u au -a 3u i 0) E -00 LL-13 O— � 0°00 ` Ca 0V c Vay V ap) a Q O LN= aow V .d 8 = } ,O o oaacr a >. d 0a3 p Y y� 3 'p °' � C E u .- c Q a .� a °� o 4 0 0 ,� c-0 m a p' u.w �- a o-0 'u M C u d 0 y O N o 0 a o o m •W •CT a> N° _ p c d c o o Q •u C in °U C +d• •L p E -a •j U +p- C' u a c •y ,.�• `m a+ 09 � o a, o D E a 2 a' a. E 3 E w a w t E y u � E E o` - �= a Q' a o• 0 co -0 a .=o S = N .G d O N O y c O 'O pIm O d W.- > o O �" 0 ! a c Z a =Eo 2 a p N p v ,FO '^ C C d a S O (L c c N .� `c .. a 0 0 a c= o3� �, �+ sv o a� m di a 9 > 0 i-xyou- C Qa ac d c aj ELa 0;Z cm 1.0 11 0 CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF REPORT REQUEST: Approval of Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact for Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-2 SUBMITTED BY: Phil Drell, Director of Community Development DATE: September 28, 2006 CONTENTS: Recommendation Background Recommendation: Since the 30-day comment period established by the State Clearinghouse extends until September 29, continue the public hearing until October 12, 2006. Background: The Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-2, involves the installation of public improvements in the area generally bounded by Gerald Ford, Portola, Monterey and Dinah Shore. Although the final approval of the District is still months away, approval of the CEQA documents is necessary at this time so that sewer improvements to serve projects currently under construction can proceed. Submitted by: Phil Drell Director of Community Development Approval: Carlos L. Ortega City Manager (W pd ocs\tm\s r\sect29. cc ) WE i gamer uroy ACM for DeV616pment Services I SW Transmission Report Date[Time 10-02-2006 04:09:16 p.m. Transmit Header Text Local ID 1 760 7766417 Local Name 1 Palm Desert - Plannig Local ID 2 Local Name 2 This document: Confirmed (reduced sample and details below) Document size : 8.5"x11 " CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FAX TRANSMISSION COVER LETTER FAX; (760) 776.6417 To: DAVID SNOW DATE: 10/02/06 COMPANY- FAX NUMBER: 1213) 626-0078 FROM: Tanya Monroe DEPARTMENT: Planning MESSAOE: Attached are additional comments received to date reaardina the Notice of Intent to Adopt a Waged Nouative Decfaratiion for the Section 29 Master Plan of (nfrastructure. Asseallnent District 2004-02. Number of pages tranamitted 6 !including cover page) Total Pages Scanned : 6 Total Pages Confirmed : 6 No. I Job 1 Remote Station Start Time Duration Pages Line Mode Job Type Results 001 264 912136260078 1616 1 G3 HS CP14400 Abbreviations: HS: Host send PL: Polled local MP: Mailbox print TU: Terminated by user HR: Host receive PR: Polled remote CP: Completed TS: Terminated by system G3: Group 3 WS: Waiting send MS: Mailbox save FA: Fail RP: Report EC: Error Correct im CM CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT STAFF REPORT imp REQUEST: Approval of Mitigated Negative Dlnfrastructureeclaration of EAssessment Distact for Section 29 Master Plan 2004-2 SUBMITTED By DATE: CONTENTS: Phil Drell, Director of Community Development September 28, 2006 Recommendation Background y nute ,Mons con nue to ctober 3-0 :(Benson ABSENT) MEETING DATE q-ZA8 2 CONTINUED TO Z ❑ PASSED TO 2ND READING Recommendation: Since the 30-day comment period established by the State Clearinghouse extends until September 29, continue the public hearing until October 12, 2006. Background: strict The Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment in arrea geDn'erally bounded involves the installation of public improvements by Gerald Ford, Portola, Monterey and Dinah Shore. Although the final approval approval of the CEQA documents is of the District is still months away, pp necessary at this time so that sewer improvements to serve projects currently under construction can proceed. Appro, - Submitted by: mer Cro Phil Drell ACM for De pmen�Services Director of Community Development Approval: Carlos L. Ortega City Manager (n/pd0M\tm%r\sect29.cc) 12, 200E I Transmission Report;, Date/Time 09-22-2006 03:06:24 p.m. Transmit Header Text Local ID 1 760 7766417 Local Name 1 Palm Desert - Plannig Local ID 2 Local Name 2 This document: Confirmed (reduced sample and details below) Document size: 8.5"x11 " CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FAX TRANSMISSION COVER LETTER FAX; (7601776.6417 To: DAVID SNOW DATE: 09122106 COMPANY: Richards. Watson and Gershon FAX NUMBER: 1213) 626-007$ FROM:PhiJDral DEPARTMENT: Plannina MESSAGE: Attached are the comments received to date reaar�a the Notice of Intent to Adoat a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure. Assessment District 2004-02. Number of pages transmitted 6 (including cover page) Total Pages Scanned : 6 Total Pages Confirmed :6 No. I Job I Remote Station Start Time I Duration Pages Line Mode I Job Type Results 001 1229 1912136260078 03:02:24 p.m. 09-22-2006 00:03:28 6/6 1 G3 IHS CP14400 Abbreviations: HS: Host send PL: Polled local MP: Mailbox print TU: Terminated by user HR: Host receive PR: Polled remote CP: Completed TS: Terminated by system G3: Group 3 WS: Waiting send MS: Mailbox save FA: Fail RP: Report EC: Error Correct It.r `f CITY OF PALM DESERT DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT FAX TRANSMISSION COVER LETTER FAX: (760) 776-6417 TO: DAVID SNOW DATE: 09/22/06 COMPANY: Richards. Watson and Gershon FAX NUMBER: (213) 626-0078 FROM: Phil Drell DEPARTMENT: Planning MESSAGE: Attached are the comments received to date regarding the Notice of Intent to Adopt a Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure Assessment District 2004-02. Number of pages transmitted 6 (including cover page) cm M Date: August 29, 2006 To: Office of Planning & Research State of CA Clearinghouse From: Phil Drell Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert Per your request, enclosed are the additional 15 copies for our August 28 submittal. (For identification purposes, Project Title on Form A is "Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District. 2004-02) Please don't hesitate to call if you need any additional information (760) 346-0611 ext. 481. 0 PROOF OF PUBLICATION (2015.5.C.C.P) STATE OF CALIFORNIA County of Riverside I am a citizen of the United States and a resident of the County aforesaid; I am over the age of eighteen years, and not a party to or interested in the above -entitled matter. I am the principal clerk of a printer of the, DESERT SUN PUBLISHING COMPANY a newspaper of general circulation, printed and published in the city of Palm Springs, County of Riverside, and which newspaper has been adjudged a newspaper of general circulation by the Superior Court of the County of Riverside, State of California under the date of March 24, 1988. Case Number 191236; that the notice, of which the annexed is a printed copy (set in type not smaller than non pariel, has been published in each regular and entire issue of said newspaper and not in any supplement thereof on the following dates, to wit: August 27`h, 2006 All in the year 2006 I certify (or declare) under penalty of perjury that the foregoing is true and correct. Dated at Palm Springs, California this ---- 29`h, ---- day of 2006 This is space for County CIerJ'5 Filing Stamp 2N6 AUG 30 AN II: 00 No. 2796 CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF INTENT MITIGATED TO ADOPT A NEGATIVE DECLARATION Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City Of Palm Desert Ci he Lead A Agency ( tY), In Its capaci as ornia Environmentallr this.pro sof nder the �d the Qual Act all- ,d th potential environmental imppa�a eOf the project under CEgA�{jf Chive ve as determined through the preparetion of an Int- el Study that althouggh the project has the ante al to result In significant any ectronhas effects, d I anon �a wilr not be significant measures described In the detailed Iris al tudy have been added to the Pro Oct, The trial Study meets the requirements of,, OA and in CEQA City Guidelines for the Implements- Il be prepared. Mitigated Negative Declaration This notice constitutes a Notice of Intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The protect Involves the formation of an Assess - within to finance ppublic Improvements within an appproximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by POrtola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. 'I rove landscaeepperally Include streets storm drain lmprovements. p�owater, sewer and stallation of a sewer line unde�InterstateillIn j p e in - Other Permits: Project Involves Jmprovements associated with Palm S rings Unified School District, Coachella TranspoaationD,i�rict and CalHomia Department of Trans Toxic sites: No listed toxic sites are present on the project site. Public Hearing: beeen se Council ptemlber 28rIng008 this ginn rag at bar, pp M. at the Palm Desert CZZity Council Cham- ber, 79-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, m- 92260. CA Public Review: The Initial Study and related documents -are avall- able for public review daily. Members of the pub He maY view these documents at the Planning Department 73-510 Fred Waring. Drive, palm I Desert, CA 62260, and submk wrlftan comments at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. If anyone cbe hallengges the action In court, Issues at the maylimited to only those issues raised writtenPublic sponde�icascribed In this notice or In the City Council hearing prior to, irate Opportunity twill be given at said hearing for all Ing this case may the direcated to Questions Phil Prreell, City of Palm Desert, at (760) 346-0611. Comment Period: Based On the time limit defined by CEQA; your response should be sent at the earliest date. m A gust 28 tomSe rbe on,thlaprojeci Is from pe p comments and any questionta should be di0r6. All to: ed Mr. Phil Drell Dlrector Of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 346-0611 Published: 8✓27/2008 , New Legal Notice Page 1 of 3 Monroe, Tonya From: Moeller, Charlene [CMOELLER@palmspri.gannett.com] Sent: Friday, August 25, 2006 12:29 PM To: Monroe, Tonya Subject: RE: New Legal Notice Not a problem @ Ad recieved and will publish on date(s) requested. Charlene Woeler Pu6fc Notice CustomerSen*e ft. (760) 778-4578, Fax (760) 778-4731 My hours are Mon -Fri 8:00-5:00 pm. (Desert ,Sun legals@thedesertsun.com BZ Desert Post'Week& dpwlegals@thedesertsun.com The Valley's #1 Source in News & Advertising! -----Original Message ----- From: tmonroe@ci.palm-desert.ca.us [mailto:tmonroe@ci.palm-desert.ca.us] Sent: Friday, August 25, 2006 12:24 PM To: Moeller, Charlene Subject: New Legal Notice Hi Charlene! Here's a new legal notice. Please publish on Monday, August 28, if possible. Please and thank you : ) Tonya Monroe, Administrative Secretary Department of Community Development (760) 346-0611 ext. 484 CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental 8/25/2006 New Legal Notice 14.r Page 2 of 3 impacts of the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental effects, these impacts will not be significant because the mitigation measures described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the requirements of CEQA and the State and City Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. This notice constitutes a Notice of intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The project involves the formation of an Assessment District to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. Other Permits: Project involves improvements associated with Palm Springs Unified School District, Coachella Valley Water District and California Department of Transportation. Toxic Sites: No listed toxic sites are present on the project site. Public Hearing: The City Council public hearing for this item has been set for September 28, 2006 beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Palm Desert City Council Chamber, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Public Review: The Initial Study and related documents are available for public review daily. Members of the public may view these documents at the Planning Department, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, and submit written comments at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. If anyone 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 submitted at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be directed to Mr. Phil Drell, City of Palm Desert, at (760) 346-0611. 8/25/2006 , New Legal Notice cm M Page 3 of 3 Comment Period: Based on the time limit defined by CEQA, your response should be sent at the earliest possible date. The public comment period on this project is from August 28 to September 28, 2006. All comments and any questions should be directed to: Mr. Phil Drell Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 346-0611 8/25/2006 CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION DATE: August 25, 2006 TO: Responsible and Trustee Agencies / Interested Organizations and Individuals FROM: City of Palm Desert RE: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental effects, these impacts will not be significant because the mitigation measures described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the requirements of CEQA and the State and City Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. This notice constitutes a Notice of intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The project involves the formation of an Assessment District to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. Other Permits: Project involves improvements associated with Palm Springs Unified School District, Coachella Valley Water District and California Department of Transportation. "W ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Philip Drell (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 4. Project Location: Area generally bounded by Gerald Ford Drive, Portola Avenue, Monterey Avenue, 35 h Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive (see attached map). 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 6. General Plan Designation: R-L, R-M/R-HO, C-R 7. Zoning: PR-5, PCD, SI 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary.) Formation of an assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Exhibit A. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: (Briefly describe the project's surroundings.) The area is surrounded by commercial, residential, resort and industrial land uses. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): Palm Springs Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District California Department of Transportation ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics ❑ Agriculture Resources ❑ Air Quality Biological Resources Fj Cultural Resources Geology / Soils Hazards & Hazardous Materials Hydrology / Water Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources ❑ Noise Population / Housing Public Services Recreation ❑ Transportation / Traffic Utilities / Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTM2005\22628.I Page 1 of 15 FORM "J" Earlier analyses may be used "fere, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or o"er CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analyses Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. Supporting Information Sources. A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. The explanation of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. SAMPLE QUESTION Issues: AESTHETICS. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, tress, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ IiK ❑ ❑ ❑ Lam' ❑ ❑ [�K ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 3 of 15 FORM " 7" En Issues: d). Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the prof ect: *ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorpporaatted Impact Impact ❑ L�J ❑ ❑ a) Have a substantial adverse effect, ❑ 121, ❑ ❑ either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on ❑ ❑ ❑ any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on ❑ ❑ ❑ 2rol federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the ❑ ❑ ❑ movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ❑ ❑ ❑ Q/ ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 5 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: cm c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18 1 B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? _'V9ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ LJ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ r� ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 2 ❑ ❑ ❑ C7, ❑ ❑ ❑ Fr CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 7 of 15 FORM " 7" cm Issues: d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Expose people or structures to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the proj ect: a) Physically divide an established community? `''ass Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact El ❑ L� ❑ ❑ ❑ Q' ❑ ❑ ❑ �?' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ©' ❑ ❑ ❑ C ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 21 ❑ ❑ ❑ P!r CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 9 of 15 FORM "7" cm Issues: e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proj ect: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of road or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project: a), Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? Potentially Significant Impact El 1-1! ass Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated 11 ❑� RM ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ no U n Less Than Significant Impact 7 ❑■ LE No Impact ❑■ CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 11 of 15 FORM " J" cm Issues: e) Result in inadequate emergency access? 0 Result in inadequate parking capacity? g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? In making this determination, the City shall consider whether the project is subject to the water supply assessment requirements of Water Code Section 10910, et. seq. (SB 610), and the requirements of Government Code Section 664737 (SB 221). '!fss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ lir ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 5?/ ❑ ❑ ❑ 5K ❑ ❑ ❑ G�K CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 13 of 15 FORM "7" Issues: *ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact d) Does the project have environmental F1❑ 0 L7 effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 15 of 15 FORM " J" `aw EXHIBIT A Monterey Avenue (South of 351" Avenue to "A" Street): • Additional Right of Way dedication on east side • East side Street Improvements include: o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvements include o 18-inch water main • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation Gerald Ford Drive (East of Gateway Drive to Portola Avenue): • Additional Right of Way dedication on north side (East of Dolce Development) • North side Street Improvement o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Median turn pocket to Gateway Drive o Median turn pocket to The Gallery Development o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main 0 • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Drive Portola Avenue (North of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement 0 10-inch sewer main North of Dinah Shore to 1-10 • Storm Drain Improvements o Extension of existing 42-inch storm drain pipe from Gerald Ford to Dinah Shore o Install 96-inch storm drain pipe north from Dinah Shore to the Retention basin • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation 09 M "A" Street (West of Monterey Avenue to Gateway Drive): • North Right of Way dedication • North Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 30-inch storm drain pipe from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive "B" Street (Doice Avenue) (West of Gateway Drive to "C" Street): • Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main "C" Street (South of 351h Avenue to "B" Street): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from "B" Street to 35th Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe 1-10" Crossing (Sewer main upgrade of from 12-inch VCP to 18-inch Stainless Steel): • Sewer Improvement o Replace existing 12-inch VCP sewer main with 18-inch Stainless Steel pipe Retention Basin • Acquisition of Retention Basin • Retention Basin Modification o Reshape retention basin o Add slope protection o Construct pipe outlet structure INITIAL STUDY Eh*fRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCL SION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 strict compliance with the City's Fugitive Dust Ordinance Chapter 24.12 and the 2002 Coachella Valley State Implementation Plan prepared by AQMD during construction and the ultimate stabilization of the sand dunes resulting from future development will reduce potential impacts on the site and areas downwind. Further, upon completion of the future developments planned for the area, increases in landscaped and otherwise covered ground will reduce the amount of blow sand generated by winds over the site. The potential impact of construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project can be mitigated to a less than significant level by adherence to the following mitigation. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AQ-1. During stabilization of the sand dunes and construction activity, all contractors shall comply with the City's Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance, set forth in Chapter 24.12 of the Municipal Code and the 2002 Coachella State Implementation Plan prepared by the Air Quality Management District. 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The project site is within the development fee area designated by the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan and HCP designed to protect critical sand dune habitat for the Fringe -Toed Lizard and associated dune flora and fauna. The General Plan EIR acknowledges that, in 1985, ten Coachella Valley cities, including the City of Palm Desert, adopted the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), which established a preserve for the species of approximately 18,038 acres. (General Plan EIR at p. III, 105-106.) Further, the biological study completed for the General Plan concludes that "[s]and sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan do not need surveys to detect the presence of the fringe -toed lizard." And that "payment of the mitigation fee of $600/acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan." (Palm Desert General Plan Update Biological Report, Lawrence F. Lapre, PhD, June 29, 2001, at p. 23.) MITIGATION Mitigation Measure BIO-1. The $600.00 per acre mitigation fee required by the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan shall be paid before lands to which the fee applies are disturbed. 2 INITIAL STUDY ENWRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCO SION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading and building codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control devices, overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional groundwater conservation measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from groundwater overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in conformance with the latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at the time construction occurs. Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate watering of soils prior to and during grading, and limiting the area of dry, exposed soils during grading (see also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rock falls and/or slope failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards. H-1. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H-2. During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site. Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or more below the existing site grade. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soils engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, organic material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescribed by the soils engineer and watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. 4 INITIAL STUDY ENRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The Project site is vacant land, and there is no evidence to suggest that hazardous materials are or have been present on the site. Further, the types of uses contemplated for the site, and specifically the improvements to be undertaken by the Project, do not have the potential to have any significant impacts in this regard. 9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The Project will result in, and enable, creation of impervious surfaces and which would reduce the amount of percolation and change the site's drainage conditions. The Project envisions the construction of a number of drainage improvements so that the drainage needs of future development of the site are met. The Project contemplates construction of drainage facilities and retention basins that will accommodate a 100-year storm. Because the Project involves these drainage improvements that will accommodate future service needs, no significant impact will result, and there is no need for further mitigation. 10. LAND USE PLANNING The Project's improvements, as well as the future residential/commercial uses which they will serve, are consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan, and will assist in the General Plan's implementation. 11. MINERAL RESOURCES There are no known mineral resources in the vicinity of the Project, therefore no significant impact is expected to occur. 0 INITIAL STUDY ENONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCISION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 1,000 projected population and will address potential impacts of the future development enabled through the Project Improvements. 16. TRANSPORTATIONITRAFFIC Commercial and residential development facilitated by the project will generate significant new vehicle trips onto the regional system, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the future development. The Project includes the completion of all necessary long-term General Plan Circulation Element street improvements to insure that traffic is distributed in a safe and efficient manner with Level of Service D or better as specified in the General Plan EIR. Further, the future development has the potential to impact regional transportation systems. However, those impacts will be mitigated to less than significant impacts through payment of the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). During construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project, there is the potential for short term impacts to transportation and traffic due to street closure needs, including the potential for detours. This short term impact will be mitigated to less than significance through preparation of street closure and traffic plans which shall be reviewed and approved by the City's Public Works Department prior to commencement of any activities within a public right-of-way. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. The construction process will ensure the structural integrity of the roadway and not impact traffic flow. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure TRANS-1. Future development shall pay Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF) as required by that program to mitigate project impacts throughout the region. Mitigation Measure TRANS-2. Prior to commencement of any improvement project within a public right-of-way, a traffic control and safety plan shall be prepared and submitted to the City's Public Works Department (or California Department of Transportation, if applicable) for review and approval. The traffic control and safety plan shall strive to enable efficient circulation in the vicinity of the Project to the extent possible. 17. UTILITIES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on some utility services, however many of the improvements Land Use Co tibility-Mitigation Measures TN/City of palm Desert Section III -Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Me aft General asu Summary of Impacts EiR Impacts to the City of Palm Desert and adjacent land uses associated with the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are not anticipated to be significant. The proposed land use plan incorporates a mix of land uses thoughtfully developed to be compatible with one another and with the surrounding environment. Spatial organization of the lands within the General Plan study are involved logical transition of adjoining residential densities from areas of lower to higher densities. a proposed land use plan recognizes the need to insulate sensitive land uses (residences, schools, etc e from areas of transportation noise by establishing a buffer of less sensitive uses, such as the busi ) s park buffer between residential areas and the Interstate- 10/Union Pacific corridor. Hi h-dens s sty residential areas occur in close proximity to commercial developments and major roads for convenient transportation access. The University Park planning area provides complimentary land uses locate close to commercial and business park development that can provide convenient shopping d employment opportunities, but buffer local residents from noise and traffic associated with nearbyand arterial roads and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Plan is also responsive to the need to reserve the Santa Rosa Mountains and other conservation areas as undeveloped open spaces. P he In general, the proposed General Plan will increase the number of housing providing additional lands for high and medium residential density development. The h us ne nitre se is expected to be primarily generated in the University Park planning area. The proposed Geer Plan also demonstrates increases in industrial, open space, and public/quasi-public acreages and sal Plan reduction in commercial acreages. g hows a The proposed General Plan constitutes a considerable increase in the number of housingstructures planning area. Additional homes will result from conversion of Open Space -Rural 1 in ander the ( W40 acre), u the existing General Plan, to Desert Estates (1 du/10 acre) in the proposed General Plan. residential increases will result from proposed lands for medium to high density development,Other located north of the I-10 freeway. The proposed General Plan also results in the decrease of primarily industrial and open space acreages. However, it will slightly increase public/quasi- ublic ac commercial, P reages. 3• Mitigation Measures No significant land use incompatibilities are an to result from the adoption and implementation of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan, and mitigation measures are not necessaryto ad area of concern. The General Plan incorporates a wide range of Policies of which will address land use compatibility issues as the arise dress this g p es and programs, implementation potential changes in land use are adequately gonorder to measure ss ha that y assessed, the following mitigation implemented. s shall be A. Individual proposed projects, especially those involving a mix of residential and other uses, as well as those located nearby or adjacent to sensitive lands or uses, shall be full evaluated the project review process to assure that all land use compatibility issues are during mitigated. address ed and I 'I 1I� • j i III-17 I f Land Use Cospatibi T—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Keasures% `"� TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures All -Weather Access Major drainages that affect roadway access both within the City and the planning area include the Whitewater River, Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, Deep Canyon Stormwater Channel, San Pascual Channel, Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel, Thousand Palms Flood Control Project and Thousand Palms Canyon Wash, cove neighborhoods and in areas north of Highway 111. Whitewater River: The Whitewater River is the principal drainage affecting all-weather access in the City, with currently all-weather crossings existing at only Monterey Avenue. Crossings of the Whitewater River at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are currently improved to pass through lower (less than 100-year) storm flows. The Whitewater River Crossing at Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is also all-weather. In addition, all-weather access is also available across the Whitewater River at Washington Street and Miles Avenue, in La Quinta and Indian Wells, respectively. The City of Palm Desert has plans to design and build all-weather crossing across the Whitewater River at both Portola Avenue and Cook Street as funding becomes available. Based upon the availability of existing all- weather crossings along the Whitewater River, improvements at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are warranted. Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel; In the planning area, this drainage facility is designed to run along the south side of the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Existing and planned improvements will convey flows under elevated roadways/approaches to I-10 interchanges. No significant access issues are associated with this drainage facility either now or in the future. Thousand Palms: The community of Thousand Palms and the area generally north of I-10 is subject to both sheetflow and channelized flooding from drainage originating in the Indio Hills. The Thousand Palms Canyon Wash conveys flows, which originate north of the Indio Hills and along the south -facing slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the Coachella Valley Water District recently completed design analysis and project approvals for an area -wide flood control project, which will protect the vast majority of homes and businesses in the community of Thousand Palms from upstream flooding. 3. Mitigation Measures As discussed above, intersections constitute the most constrained portion of the roadway network in the City and balance of the planning area. The following table provides a detailed analysis of the improvements (mitigation measures), both those already programmed and new/additional improvements that are needed to provide acceptable levels of service. It should be noted that although improvements are cited that will bring some intersections to LOS C, these improvements are not needed in most instances in order to achieve acceptable levels of service. III-46 CITY OF PALM DESERT NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION DATE: August 25, 2006 TO: Responsible and Trustee Agencies / Interested Organizations and Individuals FROM: City of Palm Desert RE: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 The City of Palm Desert (City), in its capacity as the Lead Agency for this project under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), evaluated the potential environmental impacts of the above referenced project under CEQA. The City has determined through the preparation of an Initial Study that although the project has the potential to result in significant environmental effects, these impacts will not be significant because the mitigation measures described in the detailed Initial Study have been added to the project. The Initial Study meets the requirements of CEQA and the State and City Guidelines for the Implementation of CEQA. A Mitigated Negative Declaration will be prepared. This notice constitutes a Notice of intent (NOI) to adopt the aforementioned Mitigated Negative Declaration. Project Location / Description: The project involves the formation of an Assessment District to finance public improvements within an approximately 350-acre vacant site bounded by Portola Avenue, Gerald Ford Drive, Monterey Avenue, 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. Improvements generally include streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and storm drain improvements. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. Other Permits: Project involves improvements associated with Palm Springs Unified School District, Coachella Valley Water District and California Department of Transportation. NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION SECTION 29 MASTER PLAN OF INFRASTRUCTURE ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 AUGUST 25, 2006 Toxic Sites: No listed toxic sites are present on the project site. Public Hearing: The City Council public hearing for this item has been set for September 28, 2006 beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Palm Desert City Council Chamber, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. Public Review: The Initial Study and related documents are available for public review daily. Members of the public may view these documents at the Planning Department, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260, and submit written comments at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. If anyone 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 submitted at, or prior to, the City Council hearing. An opportunity will be given at said hearing for all interested persons to be heard. Questions regarding this case may be directed to Mr. Phil Drell, City of Palm Desert, at (760) 346-0611. Comment Period: Based on the time limit defined by CEQA, your response should be sent at the earliest possible date. The public comment period on this project is from August 28 to September 28, 2006. All comments and any questions should be directed to: Mr. Phil Drell Director of Community Development City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 (760) 346-0611 *4""" ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1. Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Philip Drell (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 4. Project Location: Area generally bounded by Gerald Ford Drive Portola Avenue Monterev Avenue 35`s Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive (see attached map). 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 6. General Plan Designation: R-L, R-M/R-HO, C-R 7. Zoning: PR-5, PCD, SI 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary.) Formation of an assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Exhibit A 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: (Briefly describe the project's surroundings.) The area is surrounded by commercial, residential, resort and industrial land uses 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): Palm Springs Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District California Department of Transportation ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Biological Resources Hazards & Hazardous Materials Mineral Resources Public Services Utilities / Service Systems ❑ Agriculture Resources Cultural Resources Hydrology / Water Quality ❑ Noise ❑ Recreation ❑ Mandatory Findings of Significance Air Quality Geology / Soils Land Use / Planning Population / Housing ❑ Transportation / Traffic CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JT13\2005\22628.1 Page 1 of 15 FORM "J" DETERMINATION (To be compd by the Lead Agency): On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. *A& Philip Drell Printed Name EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: jeb;;1d K., Date For A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 2 of 15 FORM "T' .146 Earlier analyses may be usedli'ere, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or o`r CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analyses Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. Supporting Information Sources. A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. The explanation of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. SAMPLE QUESTION Issues: AESTHETICS. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, tress, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ L� ❑ ❑ ❑ ®� ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ Z2/ ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 3 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non- agricultural use? AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively considerable net increase of any criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? s Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ® ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 1pll� ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.I Page 4 of 15 FORM "7" cm Issues: d). Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? 'L'fss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorppooraatted Impact Impact ❑ LT ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ L•_T LEI n ■❑ IN X a F! U ❑� n C 0 7 0 REB el CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JT13\2005\22628.I Page 5 of 15 FORM "J" M Issues: f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in § 15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic' -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? s Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ Er ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 0' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 2e' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ L� ❑ 0' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ � CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 6 of 15 FORM " J" Issues: In c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18 1 B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? '"tss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ &' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ IK ❑ ❑ ❑ 12/� ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 12 ❑ ❑ ❑ ET, CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 7 of 15 FORM "J" s Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Issues: Impact Incorporated Impact Impact e) For a project located within an ❑ El Q/ airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a El2/ private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or El ❑ ❑ 9-11 physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a El❑ ❑ significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards ❑ ❑ Q/ or waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially deplete groundwater El supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing d drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site? CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTM2005\22628.1 Page 8 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Expose people or structures to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the project: a) Physically divide an established community? "4-4ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact cImpact ❑ El ctt L� ❑ ❑ ❑ c� ❑ ❑ ❑ 21, ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ a� ❑ ❑ ❑ C ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 2r ❑ ❑ ❑ ETo' CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 9 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: Ln b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally -important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? NOISE. Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? Potentially Significant Impact 11 s Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated ON X ■❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Less Than Significant Impact V No Impact am ❑ 5 CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 10 of 15 FORM "J" cm Issues: e) For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? 0 For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the prof ect: a) Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of road or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project: a) Result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? Potentially Significant Impact El ■❑ FE- '' ss Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated 0 ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ EM 1 C Less Than Significant Impact ❑■ ❑� LN ❑■ No Impact r n 750 rum CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JT13\2005\22628.1 Page 11 of 15 FORM " 7" s Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Issues: Impact Incorporated Impact Impact Police protection? ❑ 3/ Schools? El 11 ❑ Parks? ❑ ❑ 11 Other public facilities? ❑ 11 ❑ 5V RECREATION. Would the project: a) Increase the use of existing �/ El neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational ❑ 13 facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which have an adverse physical effect on the environment? TRANSPORTATION / TRAFFIC. Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is Er substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or El ❑ El cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic El El patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due El El a/ to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTM2005\22628.I Page 12 of 15 FORM "J" M Issues: e) Result in inadequate emergency access? 0 Result in inadequate parking capacity? g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? b) Require or result in the construction of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? In making this determination, the City shall consider whether the project is subject to the water supply assessment requirements of Water Code Section 10910, et. sea. (SB 610), and the requirements of Government Code Section 664737 (SB 221). `'ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ L"J ❑ ❑ ❑ 1;r ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ [�K ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ gae, CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTM2005\22628.1 Page 13 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: s Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact e) Result in a determination by the ❑ ❑ ❑ Er� wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? f) Be served by a landfill with ❑ ❑ E ❑ sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local statutes and regulations related to solid waste? MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels; threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species; or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have the potential to achieve short-term environmental goals to the disadvantage of long- term environmental goals? c) Does the project have impacts that are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.) ❑ ❑ ❑ B ❑ ❑ ❑ Ell*' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ IR/ CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\22628.1 Page 14 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: *4010, ss Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact d) Does the project have environmental El ❑ 2 effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 15 of 15 FORM "J" ° o�LL=��so=� < �__ =Wa-<====LL aoa o ww°6 3 m °..�55z000ww°o ss oos>�° o� ?44� `'Mr+ EXHIBIT A Monterey Avenue (South of 35t" Avenue to "A" Street): • Additional Right of Way dedication on east side • East side Street Improvements include: o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvements include 0 18-inch water main • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation Gerald Ford Drive (East of Gateway Drive to Portola Avenue): • Additional Right of Way dedication on north side (East of Dolce Development) • North side Street Improvement o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Median turn pocket to Gateway Drive o Median turn pocket to The Gallery Development o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main 0 • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Drive Portola Avenue (North of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement 0 10-inch sewer main North of Dinah Shore to 1-10 • Storm Drain Improvements o Extension of existing 42-inch storm drain pipe from Gerald Ford to Dinah Shore o Install 96-inch storm drain pipe north from Dinah Shore to the Retention basin • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Portola Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Gateway Drive (North of Gerald Ford Drive to 35th Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication (North of "A" Street) • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main North of "A" street to 35th Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe north of "A" street to 35th Avenue. • Traffic Signal at Gateway Drive and 35th Avenue 35th Avenue (West of Monterey Avenue to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) • Full Street Improvements (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 54-inch thru 66-inch storm drain pipe East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Traffic Signal at 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Dinah Shore Drive (south of 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Street median and landscaping o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 10-inch sewer main from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 84-inch thru 96-inch storm drain pipe from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue im cm "A" Street (West of Monterey Avenue to Gateway Drive): • North Right of Way dedication • North Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 30-inch storm drain pipe from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive "B" Street (Dolce Avenue) (West of Gateway Drive to "C" Street): • Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main "C" Street (South of 35`h Avenue to "B" Street): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from "B" Street to 35`h Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe 1-10" Crossing (Sewer main upgrade of from 12-inch VCP to 18-inch Stainless Steel): • Sewer Improvement o Replace existing 12-inch VCP sewer main with 18-inch Stainless Steel pipe Retention Basin • Acquisition of Retention Basin • Retention Basin Modification o Reshape retention basin o Add slope protection o Construct pipe outlet structure M n INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 GENERAL COMMENTS The public improvements identified in the project description attached hereto as Exhibit A, along with the future commercial and residential projects that will be served by those improvements, were substantially identified and discussed in the General Plan and Environmental Impact Report (SCH #2003051103). Many of the mitigation measures identified in the General Plan Final EIR, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, will be applicable to the Project and future associated developments. The General Plan mitigation measures are identified in the attached Exhibit B, and are incorporated herein by reference, to the extent that each applies to this Project. 1. q AESTHETICS The project site elevation falls southwest to northwest by approximately 80 feet. The combination of grading design, landscaping and low profile architecture for future development will preserve views of the regions scenic mountains from surrounding properties. The Project will involve installation of street lighting and incidental lighting associated with future residential and commercial development. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AES-1. The lighting funded and constructed by this Project shall comply with the City's Municipal Code Chapter 24.16 regulations regarding lighting levels and horizontal and vertical light trespass. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES The Project site does not contain any agricultural resources, therefore no significant impacts will occur. 3. AIR QUALITY The undeveloped site is currently covered by large sand dunes which, in conjunction with other such landforms located in the general area, are the primary source of blow sand contributing to periodic violations of PM10 standards in the area. Construction activities associated with installation of the improvements to be funded and constructed through the Project have the potential to increase the amount of blow sand and PM10. The INITIAL STUDY EONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 strict compliance with the City's Fugitive Dust Ordinance Chapter 24.12 and the 2002 Coachella Valley State Implementation Plan prepared by AQMD during construction and the ultimate stabilization of the sand dunes resulting from future development will reduce potential impacts on the site and areas downwind. Further, upon completion of the future developments planned for the area, increases in landscaped and otherwise covered ground will reduce the amount of blow sand generated by winds over the site. The potential impact of construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project can be mitigated to a less than significant level by adherence to the following mitigation. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AQ-1. During stabilization of the sand dunes and construction activity, all contractors shall comply with the City's Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance, set forth in Chapter 24.12 of the Municipal Code and the 2002 Coachella State Implementation Plan prepared by the Air Quality Management District. 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The project site is within the development fee area designated by the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan and HCP designed to protect critical sand dune habitat for the Fringe -Toed Lizard and associated dune flora and fauna. The General Plan EIR acknowledges that, in 1985, ten Coachella Valley cities, including the City of Palm Desert, adopted the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), which established a preserve for the species of approximately 18,038 acres. (General Plan EIR at p. III, 105-106.) Further, the biological study completed for the General Plan concludes that "[s]and sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan do not need surveys to detect the presence of the fringe -toed lizard." And that "payment of the mitigation fee of $600/acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan." (Palm Desert General Plan Update Biological Report, Lawrence F. Lapre, PhD, June 29, 2001, at p. 23.) MITIGATION Mitigation Measure BIO-1. The $600.00 per acre mitigation fee required by the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan shall be paid before lands to which the fee applies are disturbed. 2 INITIAL STUDY ENONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCIION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 5. 6. CULTURAL RESOURCES The project site is located on a large, dry sand dune ridge, and the site contains no evidence of cultural resources. Based on the Palm Desert General Plan EIR cultural resources survey, the area is not within areas designated as "high sensitivity for prehistoric or archaeological resources" or "relatively high sensitivity for historic structures or archaeological resources from pre-1940 era." (See General Plan Draft EIR, Exhibit III- 14.) Therefore, no significant impacts in this regard are expected. GEOLOGY AND SOILS The project site is four miles from the San Andreas fault, therefore, like all other property in the region, it is subject to the potential for ground shaking. The General Plan EIR identifies the site as low risk for liquefaction. (See General Plan EIR, Exhibit III-10.) Compliance with mitigation measures set for in the General Plan will mitigate any impacts to less than significant levels. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure GEO-1. The proposed Project and future development will comply with the City's grading and building codes and implement the following mitigation measures listed in the General Plan EIR as applicable to the Project or components thereof: A. The City shall establish and maintain an information database containing maps and other information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazards occurring within the City boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area. B. Proper structural engineering, which that will be applied to structures by shall provide mitigation for ground design shall be in accordance wit h C. Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment on the valley floor shall include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address settlement, liquefaction, and collapsible soils. These hazards can generally be mitigated by proper excavation, compaction and foundation design. 3 INITIAL STUDY EN RONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISC&SION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading and building codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control devices, overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional groundwater conservation measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from groundwater overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in conformance with the latest approved Coachella Valley PM 10 requirements in place at the time construction occurs. Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate watering of soils prior to and during grading, and limiting the area of dry, exposed soils during grading (see also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rock falls and/or slope failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards. H-1. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H-2. During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site. Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or more below the existing site grade. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soils engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, organic material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescribed by the soils engineer and watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. 4 INITIAL STUDY ENONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 J. Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to not less than 90% of the laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557-78. The project soils engineer shall observe the placement of fill and take sufficient tests to verify the moisture content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. In -place soil density should be determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method D-1556-64 (74), or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and Safety Department. K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary cuts for retaining walls or utility installations in excess of 5 feet may result in gross failure of the cut and may possibly damage equipment and injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected during grading to provide additional recommendations for safe construction. L. Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Fill slope surfaces shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum density by either over -filling and cutting back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical methods. M. Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are recommended for the support of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structures must be evaluated based on structure design and on -site soil conditions. N. Positive site drainage shall be established during finish grading. Finish lot grading shall include a minimum positive gradient of 2% away from structures for a minimum distance of three (3) feet and a minimum gradient of 1 % to the street or other approved drainage course. O. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This 5 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The Project site is vacant land, and there is no evidence to suggest that hazardous materials are or have been present on the site. Further, the types of uses contemplated for the site, and specifically the improvements to be undertaken by the Project, do not have the potential to have any significant impacts in this regard. 9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The Project will result in, and enable, creation of impervious surfaces and which would reduce the amount of percolation and change the site's drainage conditions. The Project envisions the construction of a number of drainage improvements so that the drainage needs of future development of the site are met. The Project contemplates construction of drainage facilities and retention basins that will accommodate a 100-year storm. Because the Project involves these drainage improvements that will accommodate future service needs, no significant impact will result, and there is no need for further mitigation. 10. LAND USE PLANNING The Project's improvements, as well as the future residential/commercial uses which they will serve, are consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan, and will assist in the General Plan's implementation. 11. MINERAL RESOURCES There are no known mineral resources in the vicinity of the Project, therefore no significant impact is expected to occur. 0 INITIAL STUDY ENONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 12. NOISE The improvements contemplated by the Project are generally not noise producing, and therefore, no significant impacts are expected in that respect. Construction activities associated with the improvements will generate noise, but due to the general lack of sensitive receptors in the area, and the fact that construction noise will be temporary, the impacts will not be significant. The project will be subject to City ordinances controlling construction hours. 13. POPULATION AND HOUSING The Project improvements are designed to serve a mix of residential and commercial uses which will help balance employment and housing demands in the University Park area. Further, the improvements will enable growth and development consistent with the General Plan for the area. Therefore, the growth accommodated by the improvements has already been accounted for in regional models that rely on the City's General Plan, and no impacts beyond those already considered by the General Plan EIR will occur. 14. PUBLIC SERVICES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on public services, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the current system of mitigation fees, including fire facility, school, park, child care, transportation, drainage, etc., in addition to general fund and Redevelopment Agency revenues, are adequate to maintain the current level of public services without significant environmental impacts. 15. RECREATION Future residential development that will be served by the Project improvements will increase public recreation demand. However, the improvements include a number of recreational facilities that will serve these future residents as well as customers and employees at the commercial and other non-residential land uses. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure REC-1. Construction of a 10-acre neighborhood park developed in conjunction with a Palm Springs Unified School District elementary/middle school meets the General Plan goal of five acres per 7 INITIAL STUDY ENONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCISION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 1,000 projected population and will address potential impacts of the future development enabled through the Project Improvements. 16. TRANSPORTATIONITRAFFIC Commercial and residential development facilitated by the project will generate significant new vehicle trips onto the regional system, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the future development. The Project includes the completion of all necessary long-term General Plan Circulation Element street improvements to insure that traffic is distributed in a safe and efficient manner with Level of Service D or better as specified in the General Plan EIR. Further, the future development has the potential to impact regional transportation systems. However, those impacts will be mitigated to less than significant impacts through payment of the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). During construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project, there is the potential for short term impacts to transportation and traffic due to street closure needs, including the potential for detours. This short term impact will be mitigated to less than significance through preparation of street closure and traffic plans which shall be reviewed and approved by the City's Public Works Department prior to commencement of any activities within a public right-of-way. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. The construction process will ensure the structural integrity of the roadway and not impact traffic flow. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure TRANS-1. Future development shall pay Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF) as required by that program to mitigate project impacts throughout the region. Mitigation Measure TRANS-2. Prior to commencement of any improvement project within a public right-of-way, a traffic control and safety plan shall be prepared and submitted to the City's Public Works Department (or California Department of Transportation, if applicable) for review and approval. The traffic control and safety plan shall strive to enable efficient circulation in the vicinity of the Project to the extent possible. 17. UTILITIES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on some utility services, however many of the improvements INITIAL STUDY EN' ONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCMION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the applicants for future development will pay the necessary connection and service fees which will offset demand impacts. 18. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) The improvement Project has the potential to degrade habitat for the Fringe -toed lizard, however, through mitigation fees that fund and establishment and maintenance of a permanent preserve through and approved Habitat Conservation Plan, the does not rise to the level of significance. Further, the improvements associated with the Project do not have the potential to substantially degrade the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species or cause such species to drop below self-sustaining levels. For the reasons stated above there is no evidence in support of finding this significance threshold met for this Project. b) The Project will assist in implementation of the City's long-term General Plan for the area, therefore the Project does not achieve short- term goals to the detriment of long term goals. c) The improvements proposed by the Project, when considered in conjunction with the future planned development, will not have a cumulatively significant effect. The Project and future developments are consistent with the General Plan which contemplates this growth. Therefore, the impacts of the Project have already been contemplated by the City's General Plan, as well as the regional plans which rely on the projections of the General Plan, such as transportation plans and air quality plans. Cumulative impacts of this Project together with other projects, will not be cumulatively significant. 9 Land Use Co ,Owetibility-Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Maft General e sores Summary of Impacts Impacts to the City of Palm Desert and adjacent land uses associated with the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are not anticipated to be significant. The proposed land use plan incorporates a mix of land uses thoughtfully developed to be compatible with one another and with the surrounding environment. Spatial organization of the lands within the General Plan study area involved logical transition of adjoining residential densities from areas of lower to higher densities. The proposed land use plan recognizes the need to insulate sensitive land uses (residences, schools, etc.) from areas of transportation noise by establishing a buffer of less sensitive uses, such as the business park buffer between residential areas and the Interstate- I O/Union Pacific corridor. High-densityresidential areas occur in close proximity to commercial developments and major roads for convenient transportation access. The University Park planning area provides complimentary land uses located close to commercial and business park development that can provide convenient shopping an employment opportunities, but buffer local residents from noise and traffic associated with nearby arterial roads and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Plan is also responsive to the need to preserve the Santa Rosa Mountains and other conservation areas as undeveloped open spaces. In general, the proposed General Plan will increase the number of housing units in the City, providing additional lands for high and medium residential density development. The housing increase is expected to be primarily generated in the University Park planning area. The proposed General Plan also demonstrates increases in industrial, open space, and public/quasi-public acreages and show reduction in commercial acreages. s a The proposed General Plan constitutes a considerable increase in the number of housing structures i planning area. Additional homes will result from conversion of Open Space -Rural 1 du/4 n the ( 0 acre), under the existing General Plan, to Desert Estates (1 du/10 acre) in the proposed General Plan. residential increases will result from proposed lands for medium to high density development, rimanly Other P � p located north of the I-10 freeway. The proposed General Plan also results in the decrease of commercial, industrial and open space acreages. However, it will slightly increase public/quasi-public acreages. 3• Mitigation Measures No significant land use incompatibilities are anticipated to result from the adoption and implementation of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan, and mitigation measures are not necess to addre area of concern. The General Plan incorporates a wide range of Policies and P ntation of which will address land use compatibility issues as the arise � ss this P programs, implementation potential changes in land use are adequatelyorder to measures SS re that y assessed, the following mitigation hall be A. Individual proposed projects, especially those involving a mix of residential other well as those located nearby or adjacent to sensitive lands or uses, shall be fullyaevaluated sus, as duringesse the project review process to assure that all land use compatibility issues are addressed d and III-17 Land Use Compatibili Traffic/Circulation *40 TN/City of Palm Desert " Draft General Plan EiR" Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. The City shall require a noise impact assessment and mitigation plan which minimizes impacts to outdoor living space and assures a maximum interior noise level of 45 CNEL, from all future residential development occurring on lands within an existing 65 dBA or higher noise contour. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall identify potential adverse of unacceptable noise exposures, evaluate and assure the effectiveness of proposed mitigation programs, and assure construction is in accordance with approved noise mitigation plans. Said plan shall be approved by the Community Development Department as part of its review, and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation program shall be demonstrated as part of the Building Department's inspection process. Results shall be recorded and maintained with building inspection records. Responsible Parties: City Community Development and Building Departments B. Traffic/Circulation Introduction In conjunction with the preparation of the Draft General Plan, a region -based, City/study area -focused traffic study was also prepared? A wide variety of data were assembled to measure existing traffic conditions on the various roadways studied. A focused version of the CVATS Traffic Model was used to analyse existing conditions and to project future conditions for the Preferred Altemative General Plan, as well as for the current General Plan and two other alternative plans. The following discussion provides some essential background information to facilitate a better understanding of the analysis, which follows. Levels of Service The capacity of a segment of roadway or an intersection is typically characterized as "Level- of - Service". As gauged for mid -block travel, Level -of -Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure describing the character and efficiency of the flow of traffic. For intersections, the LOS is defined quantitatively, as the number of seconds the vehicle is delayed in passing through the intersection. LOS includes a range of alphabetical connotations "A" through "F', used to characterize roadway operating conditions. LOS A represents the best/free-flow conditions and LOS F indicates the worst/system failure. Intersections represent the most constrained portion of the roadway network. The Highway Capacity Manual expresses the Level of Service at an intersection in terms of delay or waiting time to get through the various intersection approaches. For signalized intersections, average total delay per vehicle is used to determine the LOS. Intersection LOS is defined quantitatively in Table 1II-7 below. A more detailed discussion of LOS values can be found in the General Plan Traffic Study in the EIR Technical Appendices. Mid -block Levels of Service are represented as volume to capacity ratios, or vehicle demand divided by roadway capacity. In general terms, as the ratio approaches 1.00 or maximum capacity, the roadway approaches LOS F. However, it is important to keep in mind that for mid -block, the LOS is meant to ` Palm Desert General Plan Update Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5, 2003. III-18 Land Use Cospatibi 7—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Pleasures ,1"00� TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures All -Weather Access Major drainages that affect roadway access both within the City and the planning area include the Whitewater River, Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, Deep Canyon Stormwater Channel, San Pascual Channel, Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel, Thousand Palms Flood Control Project and Thousand Palms Canyon Wash, cove neighborhoods and in areas north of Highway 111. Whitewater River: The Whitewater River is the principal drainage affecting all-weather access in the City, with currently all-weather crossings existing at only Monterey Avenue. Crossings of the Whitewater River at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are currently improved to pass through lower (less than 100-year) storm flows. The Whitewater River Crossing at Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is also all-weather. In addition, all-weather access is also available across the Whitewater River at Washington Street and Miles Avenue, in La Quinta and Indian Wells, respectively. The City of Palm Desert has plans to design and build all-weather crossing across the Whitewater River at both Portola Avenue and Cook Street as funding becomes available. Based upon the availability of existing all- weather crossings along the Whitewater River, improvements at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are warranted. Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel In the planning area, this drainage facility is designed to run along the south side of the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Existing and planned improvements will convey flows under elevated roadways/approaches to I-10 interchanges. No significant access issues are associated with this drainage facility either now or in the future. Thousand Palms: The community of Thousand Palms and the area generally north of I-10 is subject to both sheetflow and channelized flooding from drainage originating in the Indio Hills. The Thousand Palms Canyon Wash conveys flows, which originate north of the Indio Hills and along the south -facing slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the Coachella Valley Water District recently completed design analysis and project approvals for an area -wide flood control project, which will protect the vast majority of homes and businesses in the community of Thousand Palms from upstream flooding. 3. Mitigation Measures As discussed above, intersections constitute the most constrained portion of the roadway network in the City and balance of the planning area. The following table provides a detailed analysis of the improvements (mitigation measures), both those already programmed and new/additional improvements that are needed to provide acceptable levels of service. It should be noted that although improvements are cited that will bring some intersections to LOS C, these improvements are not needed in most instances in order to achieve acceptable levels of service. III-46 W U U U w A U U u amo U Q U U U U U U mUUpUUUUUU afi h M �i N M N e N M i j 4 ON O 7 wi CT n CO M M M M N MN gt M N M cn Fy Q n M en Q N M -" N N o0 00 C� N N M O0 Vy et G h .-: en "' N M cn N tM N N A O O .-. p A ^y O O -. p^ /� n n V C. M N N M M M CD N M M M M � r [ O N N O A O -� N N N y -.•� ... O Opp .-� n M M M M M M O N Q Er M N M M ". o Q O ►� O O pW) h N ,�. a Aq ►-+ N N N N cn N N O �+ n n n ' M M M M M O M M M W) V) W) Hr •C N M M~ OO ►.a O O O •-r N L+ co t� co) (� O N N N V? O ^+ "' N N N N N N F M M M M M -•� .r C M M M h torz M M M M M M 0 0 O O ^+ N N O p to C z (� O N N N h .- " O N N N N N cn C co -� -. I\ v 'A Z Q Q " y y _ ° o o LLcu ya-clCo �� c-. •.o ,r-� z 3 wW N.�b� CO) rA '•^1 En .7 N y 4. � �QO CNg1 � y � II � ° a a CL H y y a 0 Dw.� ld o n � � CO2 ur , U o' o 3 9 0 o 'eb U N In Land Use Compatibility—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Kea'W es TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts a Draft Mitigation Measures Mitigation via Roadway/Intersection Improvements As set forth in the Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan, the City shall make a good faith effort to assure that intersections operate at LOS D or better. The improvements set forth in Table III-15, above, are mitigation measures designed to reduce Post 2020 (buildout) traffic impacts to levels of insignificance (LOS D). The improvements include the provision of new or additional turn lanes and through lanes, and in a few instances limitations on pedestrian green -time or access on certain legs of intersections. None of the prescribed limitations on pedestrian access are a significant impediment to pedestrian use and are located at intersections with the highest volumes and widest cross sections. On -Going Monitoring and Analysis The programmatic level of the General Plan study suggests that on -going and project -specific traffic monitoring is required to assure adequate levels of service in the long-term. The City shall periodically monitor conditions along roadway segments where General Plan level analysis indicates high levels o traffic congestion. In these areas of the roadway network intersection and progression analysis shall also be conducted to advance infrastructure planning to address areas of existing and anticipated traffic congestion. Mitigation via Alternative Modes of Transportation With the limited exception of the consideration of busing of students to schools, the traffic impact analysis conducted for the General Plan update does not consider the effects of the use of mass transit, biking or pedestrian -accessible land use planning on traffic volumes or roadway operations. As noted in the General Plan Traffic Study: wWhile the model is not intended to reflect vehicle trip reduction characteristics associated ith the benefits of such a system combined well developed non -motorized transportation system could potent ally educe vehicle trx of land uses, an affic ally substantially.i' vehicle traffic The General Plan Traffic Study also cites the continuing imbalance between the production and attraction of trips in the University Park planning area, caused by an abundance of commercial institutional and industrial trip attractors and the limited number of sources of home -based production (residences). The study cites the unquantifiable but substantial potential for vehicle trip reduction from the compact mix of land uses, which promotes the use of buses, bike paths and pedestrian access . Busl3us— e As set forth in the general Plan Circulation Element, the City shall continue to coordinate with the Sunline Transit Authority to expand and optimize the use of bus transit through the ex operate of bus routes, the construction of user-friendly bus stops and shelters, and through joint venture between Sunline and major potential users, including the colleges, s g retail and employment centers. City of Palm Desert General Plan Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5, 2003. III-51 Land Use Compatibility-Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Measu' ..0i TN/Cityof Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts anDraft Gen. n. r Plan PER Golf art and Bik Path City shall continue to enhance The City golf cart path network is also a the accessibility tolandu se o�helt alternative mode of transportation. The the greatest extent practicable. g f cart and bicycle path network to I Mitigation via Implementation of General Plan Policies and Pro The Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan includes twenty-nine (29). programs, which are designed to enhance the operation and es fourteen 14 of the transportation system serving the planning area. enhance the ( ) policies and monitoring and management of traffic volumes an sand programs address the onpects -going ' improvements to maintain acceptable levels of service.operating conditions, and the timing of required Summary of Mitigation ' The Draft General Plan, this EIR and the general Plan Traffic Stud concrete/prescriptive actions and measures that are expected to reduce transportation with the implementation of the proposed General Plan y provide both programmatic and the existing various regional transportation initiatives co P rtation impacts associated n below levels of significance. In conjunction with Performance of transportation systems serving the City and Planningare coordinated through the City and CVAG, the continued thoughtful integration of land uses will also increase Opportunities motorized means fu transportation. andusesll al a can o f user enhanced. 'The irfor mass transit and non - preserve capacity and limit the costs associated with expanded roadwayinfI Controlling access onto major arterial roadways will also serve to Mitigation Monitorin ructure. g/Reporting Program A. City ity shall review and update rights -of -way itf-wa e the master plan of roads, including standards for ultimate y and pavement width, and provide a schedule for securing constructing improvements consistent with the projected needs and standards Circulation Element and Program EIR right-of-way and Responsible Parties: City Council, Community D ndards set forth in the Department y Development Department, Public Wc,rke B. The City shall establish and maintain ongoing consultation planning and engineering staffs of adjoining cities and transportation Planning and implement effective means of Preservinga and coordination with adjoining Coordination efforts may include synchronized and aimproving capacity along ignalizati P mng agencies to study restriction of access, construction of additional travel and turng major roadways. and improvements to critical intersections. °n� consolidation of access drives and i Responsible Parties: Public Works Department,turning lanes, raised median islands, Adjoining Cities, CVAG, Riverside County, CalTrans Community Development Department, C• The City shall periodically evaluate the operatingconditions interchanges serving the City, including Monterey ditions at each of the Interstate-10 and Washington Street, and shall make recommendatnons Co res Street, future Portola Avenue needed improvements. responsible agencies regarding Responsible Parties: Public Works Department, Community development Department, CalTrans, Riverside County, CVAG III-52 Land Use Compatibility—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation hi Tres TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures D. The City shall pro -actively consult and coordinate with CVAG, SCAG and CalTrans and represent the City in transportation planning meetings to assure that City policies, programs and strategies are given full consideration in resolving regional transportation issues affecting the community. Responsible Agency: City Council, Community Development Department, Public Works Department, CVAG, SCAG, CalTrans E. The City shall continue to pro -actively promote the mass transit system expansion and innovation through ongoing consultation and coordination with the SunLine Transit Agency and CVAG. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency, CVAG F. The City shall continue to consult and coordinate with the SunLine Transit Agency and encourage the development of rideshare and other alternative, high occupancy transit programs for employers with sufficient numbers of employees, and for individuals seeking to locate potential rideshare partners. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency G. The City monitor the effectiveness of land use planning proposals that integrate the assemblage of land uses, optimizes nearby interactions, reduces the need for travel outside the neighborhood, and shortens trips to work, shopping, public services and public park facilities. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Redevelopment Agency, Chamber of Commerce H. The City monitor the effectiveness of its master plan of bicycle -ways and multi -use trails, including secure bicycle and golf cart storage facilities, and other support facilities which increase bicycle and golf cart use. Responsible Parties: Community Development Departments, Public Works Department I. The City shall monitor the planning and development of all-weather crossings as part of the community's Master Drainage Plan and its implementation. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Water District J. The City shall periodically review roadway design specifications, design standards and guidelines for public and private streets, and their effectiveness at meeting existing and anticipated demand, reducing traffic speeds in neighborhoods, and facilitating safe and efficient use of bicycles and other alternative modes of transportation. Responsible Parties: Community development department, Public Works Department, Planning Commission, City Council III-53 Soils and)logy—Project Iimpacts TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts The buildout of the General Plan will increa se the potential for a number of geologic and seismic hazards within the General Plan study area. The construction of all types of structures in varying terrain could expose persons and property to hazards relating to subsidence, slope instability and rock fall, and seismic hazards. Soils The General Plan study area includes lands adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Indio Hills and the Little San Bernardino Mountains, where slope failure and rock fall could occur. Limited development potential exists for the southern portion of the City, which is generally designated for Open Space land uses. In the northern portion of the planning area, residential development could occur in close proximity to slopes. Development in these areas should include the preparation of site specific analysis to assess the potential impacts of rock fall and slope stability prior to construction of structures for projects which might be down -gradient from such hazard areas, as shown in Exhibit III-12. Alluvial fan deposits and blowing sand deposits throughout the General Plan study area are vulnerable to collapse and/or hydrocompaction. When saturated, these soils could lose cementation and cause damage to structures and foundations that are built upon them. In areas proposed for development, site - specific studies must be conducted to evaluate the collapse potential. Subsidence in the Coachella Valley is closely associated with groundwater overdraft. Structures sensitive to slight changes in elevation, such as canals, sewers and drainage improvements are generally sensitive to the effects of subsidence and may be damaged if subsidence occurs. Mitigation of subsidence and its potential impacts will require a regional approach to groundwater conservation and recharge. The northern portion of the planning area is highly susceptible to wind erosion. Increased development and surface disruption resulting from grading and construction loosens soils and increases the amount of dust and other small particles in the air. However, in the long-term, the installation of landscaping associated with new development will contribute to the stabilization of drifting sand. The City currently requires the preparation of erosion control plans as part of the grading permit process, providing site - specific mitigation for this hazard with each development. Project -specific erosion control measures must continue to be implemented to protect on -site soils. The potentially adverse health impacts associated with suspended dust and blowsand are further discussed in Section III-H, Air Quality. Seismicity Two Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones occur within the General Plan study area. In addition, the area will be subject to significant ground acceleration and potential damage from significant earthquakes within the next 50 years. Earthquakes can trigger slope instability, liquefaction, settlement and flood inundation, and can cause a variety of localized, but no less destructive hazards such as urban fires, dam failures, and toxic chemical releases. Smaller structures could be shifted from their foundations and cause gas leeks and fires. Soils and Geology. Mitigation Measu es TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Me�asure�s The greatest hazard with smaller structures is that of unreinforced masonry buildings. T identified and caused to be retrofitted four such structures. The City Department of Building adopted the 1997 Uniform Building Code (UBC). New developmentg he City has in the City will be subjectdto this, or later versions of the UBC and/or International Building Code, and should be able to res' earthquakes without collapsing, although structural damage could occur. 1st major Liquefaction Liquefaction hazards in the City and planning areas are considered generally low, except in the northern portion of the planning area, in a small area between the Indio Hills and the Little San B Mountains. This area could develop with limited residential development with buildout ernardlno of th Plan. The City should require site specific liquefaction studies as development is Proe General areas. The analysis will include mitigation measures should liquefaction be considered y n these likely d on these properties. 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City shall establish and maintain an information database containing maps and information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazards occurring w thin the they boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area. City B. Proper structural engineering, which takes into account the forces that will be applied to structures by anticipated ground motions, shall provide mitigation for ground shaking hazards. Seismic design shall be in accordance with the most recently adopted editions of the Uniform Building Code and/or International Building Code and the seismic designorm Structural Engineers' Association of California. Parameters of the C. Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment on the valley include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address settlement, li uefac hall and collapsible soils. These hazards can generally be miti b pe , q lion, ated and foundation design. g y pro r excavation compaction D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize llding these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control de overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. vices, E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional roundwa measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from at also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). groundwater overdraftsee ion F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at the time construcconformance with the Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate w on occurs. soils prior to and during grading, and limitingthe area of q watering of also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). thY� exposed soils during grading (see III-70 Soils and Geology Mitigation Mures In El ■ 0 1� :1 1 TN/City of Palm Desert aft General Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rocpe k falls and/or slo failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards. H. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H. During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site. Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or more below the existing site grade. I. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soils engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, organic shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescribed by the material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. soils engineer and J. Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to not less than 90% of the laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557-78. The project soils engineer shall observe the placement of fill and take sufficient tests to verify the moisture content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. In -place soil density should be determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method D-1556-64 (74), or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and Safety Department. K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary cuts for retaining walls or utility installations in excess of 5 feet may result in gross failure of the cut and may possibly damage equipment and injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected during grading to provide additional recommendations for safe construction. L• Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Fill Slope surface shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum density by either over -filling and cutt n s back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical methods. g M- Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are recommended for the support of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structures must be evaluated based ed o structure design and on -site soil conditions. n N. Positive site drainage shall be established during finish grading. Finish lot grading minimum Positive gradient of 2% away from structures for a minimum distance of Ithree alln 3) feet a and a minimum gradient of 1% to the street or other approved drainage course. () eet r III-71 Soils and Geo Mitigation Kea res TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts anDraft GenerAl ation Mean EIR Ures 4. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be Properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill shall comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting A. During any project site preparation, the City Engineer and Building Department staff shall conduct site inspections to ensure compliance with applicable City ordinances and conditions of approval, as well as any additional erosion control mitigation measures specified in this document. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Building Department, developer, grading contractor. B. Subsequent to preparation of final development plans and specifications, but prior to grading and construction, the foundation plans should be reviewed by the City Engineer to verify compatibility with site geotechnical conditions and conformance with recommendations contained herein. The need for additional subsurface exploration will be determined on a project by project basis. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. C. When appropriate, rough grading of a project site shall be performed under geological and engineering observation of the geological consultant and/or the City Engineer. Rough grading includes, but is not limited to, grading of overexcavation cuts, till placement, and excavation of temporary and permanent cut slopes. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. D. As determined appropriate by the City Engineer and consulting geologist, the geotechnical consultant and/or the City Engineer shall perform the following observations during site grading and construction of foundations to verify or modify, if necessary, conclusions and recommendations in the project's geotechnical report: III-72 Hydrology NNW TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan Section III- Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 1. Observation of all grading operations. 2. Geologic observation of all cut slopes. 3. Observation of all key cuts and fill benching. 4. Observation of all retaining wall back cuts, during and following completion or excav 5. Observation of all surface and subsurface drainage systems. ation. 6. Observation of backfill wedges and subdrains for retaining walls. 7. Observation of pre -moistening of subgrade soils and placement of sand cushion and vapor barrier beneath the slab. 8. Observation of all foundation excavations for the structure or re forms and reinforcing steel. tasting walls prior to placing 9. Observation of compaction of all utility trench backfill. Responsible Parties: City Engineer and/or geotechnical consultant. D. Hydrology 1. Existing Conditions Hydrology is significantly influenced by the geography and climate of a particular locale. Valley and the City of Palm Desert occur in a low desert basin, flanked b local m The Coachella isolate the region from moist and cool maritime air masses coming on shore to th subtropical desert climate. The desert floor receives a very to Y mountain ranges that inches per year. In some years, no measurable rainfall has been reported. a west, creating a ry w mean annual rainfall, ranging from 4 to 6 during the winter months, between December and March. The surroundingmountain receive rainfall that increase with elevation. '1' p d• In general, precipitation occurs study area are generally cooler, with about a 5 F dropmountains temperatureand upper elevationsof theoGeneral Plpes an elevation. Daytime temperatures in the valley reach up to 125 Foccasionall during1,000-foot increase in and winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing. Y the summer season Although the Coachella Valley has a low mean average rainfall, the region is susceptible generated by occasional high -intensity thunderstorms and tropical storms, occurring rim ly during late summer and early fail. D to flash floods Dry ground surfaces can become saturated by intense and excessive rainfall, resulting in substantial reduction of percolation rates and increasing runoff. Permeable asphalt and other impervious surfaces associated with development also contribute Potential landslides, and debris or mudflows can occur in soils covered by soils are weighed down by water. Flash flooding in the Coachella hilly or mountainous areas when saturated to rainwater runoff. extending from mountain canyons, floodways and floodplains adjacent to drainages. Flooding on alluvial fans can Valley is generally limited to washes velocities and spread across wide unchannelized areas. Given that be particularly damaging because floodwaters move at high most of threvers and low-lying fans, the hazard posed by flooding is significant if not mitigated. e City is situated on alluvial Flooding can also be an attribute of unusually warm conditions Occurring the snow pack on adjacent mountains to melt rapidly. In fact n in earl spring, Coachella Valle early all of the surface water the M Bernardino y originates from snow meltingoff n the and San Jacinto Mountains. The water is usuallylabsorbedtbe Sa n Bernardino, Little San Y sands and gravels on III_73 I Hydrology Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts Potential flooding problems in the City of Palm Desert, its sphere -of -influence and planning area are associated with storm flows in the Whitewater River and its tributaries, flooding on the alluvial fans, and to runoff associated with the Indio Hills and the foothills of the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains. Ongoing growth and urbanization in the General Plan study area will result in the creation of additional impervious surfaces such as paved roads, parking lots, and sidewalks which can cause an increase in the amount of runoff generated. Since the bedrock formation of the hills and mountains surrounding and occurring in the General Plan study area have low permeability, heavy runoff from these areas during intense storms may be inevitable. Future development facilitated by the proposed General Plan could also potentially alter and/or disturb existing drainage patterns, which can result in the accumulation of considerable amounts of debris in the event of a major storm. Large Ndevelopments may incorporate a network of channels which can include golf courses, greenbelts and other open space areas to convey and collect on -site runoff. The proposed General Plan utilizes land use planning as an effective strategy to manage potential flood hazards and protect lives and properties in areas subject to flooding. The adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan will facilitate the regulated development of various land uses and roadways, and will put in effect policies, programs and mitigation measures which directly address the flood hazards facing the City. The foremost goal of the proposed General Plan is to protect the general health, safety and welfare of the community from potential flood and associated hazards. Its focus includes the evaluation of the potential for and extent of major future flooding. The City will coordinate with FEMA in the redesignation of the 100-year flood plains within the General Plan study area. The Plan also calls for the protection of groundwater resources from polluted runoff by implementing the NPDES permitting process. The proposed Plan acknowledges and addresses the need for and availability of adequate access and evacuation routes in the event of a major community disaster or threat. While the proposed General Plant aims to protect the community for flood hazards, it has also recognized that there are opportunities for the provision of open space and multiple uses, wildlife, pedestrian and equestrian corridors within major drainages. In general, the implementation and adoption of the proposed General Plan is not anticipated to result in substantial adverse hydrological impacts. Through thoughtful planning and coordination land use development intensities are regulated and improvements and construction of new storm water facilities are identified. Moreover, the policies and plans of the proposed General Plan seek to establish and enhance inter -agency planning cooperation, and facilitate the development of effective and cost- effective local and regional drainage facilities. 3. Mitigation Measures The City will continue to review and assess hydrology analyses on a project -by project basis. The findings of these studies will be integrated into the project master drainage plans appro riatel and th City will have the opportunity to require additional on -site flood control facilities as necessary. e III-81 Hydrology Mitigation -Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section Ill — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures The proposed General Plan intends to provide a comprehensive assessment of flooding and other hydraulic hazards in the community, and complete facilities and services effectively protecting lives and property. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented to reduce potential impacts associated with flooding and hydrology to less than significant levels: A. The City shall continue to update hydrologic conditions in the General Plan study area, and plan and pro -actively coordinate with other responsible agencies in upgrading the City's local and regional drainage system. B. The City shall implement the recommendations of the 1993 Master Drainage Plan study. Local regulations and guidelines shall be established which are consistent with the Master Plan of Drainage, direct the management of runoff, and provide for local drainage facilities support the effective use of regional drainage facilities. C. The City shall monitor and periodically update the Master Plan of Drainage to reflect changes in . local and regional drainage and flood conditions. D . The City shall develop, update and maintain Capital Improvement Plans for drainage management based upon the Master Drainage Plan project descriptions. E. The City shall place the highest priority for improvements to be implemented through the Master Drainage Plan on the following stormwater facilities: Whitewater River Channel, the Palm Valley Channel, the Deep Canyon Channel, and City of Indian Wells drainages located to the east of the City. F. The City shall evaluate the need for requiring an upgrade from a 25-year on -site retention to a 100-year on -site retention in crucial locations of the General Plan, as described by the Master Drainage Plan. G. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with responsible regional agencies in achieving multi- use agreements of major drainage facilities, including debris basins and flood control channel and designing safe and attractive recreational facilities, which are consistent with the functional requirements of these facilities. H. The City shall require all new development to incorporate adequate flood mitigation measures, such as grading that prevents adverse drainage impacts to adjacent properties, on -site retention of runoff, and the adequate siting of structures located within flood plains. I. The City will ensure that adequate, safe, all-weather crossings over drainage facilities and flood control channels are provided where necessary, and are maintained for access during major storm events. J. The City shall investigate the possibility of participating in the nationwide inventory and evaluation of bridges to address the potential impacts of bridge scour during major flood events. III-82 IWateality/Resources *40 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Engineer shall regularly, and at least once a year, report to the City Council on progress made in developing local drainage plans and implementing drainage control projects. The status of regional drainage plans and facilities affecting flood control in the City shall also be reported upon. Responsible Agencies: City Engineer, City Council, CVWD B . The City Engineer shall review and approve project -specific hydrology studies and mitigation plans for development proposals, and assure their adequacy with regard to stormwater management and pollution control. Responsible Agencies: City Engineer E. Water Quality/Resources 1. Existing Conditions Complex tectonic forces have created the unique physiographic form of the Coachella Valley. The region is characterized as a deep trough which has been progressively filled with sands and gravel that have eroded from the surrounding mountains and hills. Over millions of years, this sediment -filled basin has functioned as a repository for rainfall, mountain runoff and occasional inundation from the Colorado River. Although considered as one of the driest regions in the United States, the Coachella Valley is underlain by a large groundwater basin that stores fresh water. This basin is identified by the Department of Water Resources as the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin. The Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin extends from the surface drainage divide at the west end of San Gorgonio Pass to the Salton Sea on the southeast and includes over 690 square miles.10 The Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin is divided into distinct subbasins and subareas. The subbasins are the San Gorgonio Pass, Mission Creek, Whitewater River, and Desert Hot Springs. Subbasin boundaries are generally defined by seismic faults that restrict the lateral movement of groundwater, including the Mission Creek and Banning strands of the San Andreas Fault Zone. It is estimated that between the high ground water elevations that occurred during the 1935-1936 season and a depth of 1,000 feet below the ground surface, the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin has a capacity for storing about 39,000,000 acre-feet of ground water." Whitewater River Subbasin The Whitewater River subbasin, the largest groundwater repository for the Coachella Valley, underlies the City of Palm Desert and a substantial portion of the valley floor. It is the primary groundwater repository serving the Palm Desert General Plan study area. In general, the Whitewater River subbasin extends from the junction of Interstate-10 and Highway 111, to the Salton Sea approximately 70 miles to the east and encompasses approximately 400 square miles. The subbasin is bounded on the north and to "Coachella Valley Investigation, Bulletin 108," Department of Water Resources, July 1964. 11 Ibid. III-83 Water Qualitesources Mitigation Measures TN/City of palm Desert Draft Gener Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation MmuEreess Based on CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the General Plan will result in usage of 312,562 acre feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum buildout of all land uses, and is therefore expected to be conservative. Development of new projects in the General Plan study area will result in gradual increases in water consumption. Implementation and buildout of the proposed General Plan will contribute to the cumulative impacts of urban development on groundwater resources in the Coachella Valley, including the continued reduction in the amount of potable groundwater in storage. As CVWD develops and implements the mitigation measures included in their Water Management Plan, a number of conservation methods are likely to be implemented which will reduce the total consumption in the District's service area. The Management Plan's Preferred Alternative results in the reversal of current overdraft conditions in the long term, and the accommodation Valley. of city buildouts throughout the Impacts to water quality resulting from the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are anticipated to be comparable to, or slightly greater than those resulting from the buildout of the current General Plan. Groundwater contamination could also potentially result from the additional development facilitated by the proposed General Plan. The policies and programs of the proposed General Plan aim to reduce impacts to water resources to less than significant levels and assure the continued implementation of federal, state, local and other applicable pollution control standards. 3• Mitigation Measures Water Conservation With increasing demands on limited water supplies in the Coachella Valley; efforts to reduce r capita consumption are a priority. One of the best ol� pita water -efficient landscaping design and management. The City has adopt d conservation Water-Effi lent Landscape of Ordinance, as required by the California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 1990 (Section 24.04 of Palm Desert Municipal Code). The ordinance establishes minimum water -efficient landscape requirements for all new and rehabilitated public and private landscape projects. The ordinance also requires development project proponents to submit •landscape construction plans, grading plans, I irrigation design plans and landscape maintenance schedules for review and approval by the Public Works Department. In some cases, landscape irrigation audits and soils analyses are required. The City is also in the process of preparing a Parkin Lot Tr ee specific landscaping requirements for parking lots that will also be responsive docwa erich co selrvation fgoals. The Public Works Department will be responsible for reviewing proposed parking lot landscaping plans for their conformance with this ordinance. The City also complies with State law which, since 1992, has mandated the installation of low -flush toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets in new construction. The Coachella Valley Water District has been instrumental in developing and implementing re ional water conservation programs. CVWD offers water audits to farms, golf courses and homeowner's associations in an effort to identify wasteful water usage and improve efficiency. It also reviews III-92 Water Quality/Resources Mitigation lures TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — ExistingConditions Im Draft General Plan EIR Pacts and Mitigation Measures landscape plans for major housing and commercial developments, and offers landscape work other educational programs to homeowners associations and students. CVWD P shops and gardens to demonstrate the effective use of native plants and efficient irrigation nsy tems. The trains two eatment and use of reclaimed and recycled water has further reduced the adverse impacts of development groundwater resources. opment on General Mitigation Measures Groundwater subbasins do not respect jurisdictional boundaries, and the threat of groundwater depletion or contamination must be viewed from both a regional and local perspective. Effective storm Jor mountaro management helps to protect groundwater quality, and protection of the region's maj watersheds will help assure and optimize long-term natural recharge to the Whi water groundwater repositories. tewater River and other INThe conservation and wise use of water resources will continue to be a central development planning in Southern California. The City of Palm Desert has eped policies and velo theme. of community Programs that encourage and/or require water -efficient landscaping and irrigation design, a Nk water -conserving home appliances and fixtures. The City plays an important role in he swell as m Protection of this essential, finite and valuable resource. long-term The goals, policies and programs of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan maintain a dependable supply of safe, high -quality domestic water to meet hdate enneeds om to provide and the General Plan study area. The following mitigation measures shall be implementedall segments of potential impacts to water resources, associated with the implementation of theProposedGee reduce to less than significant levels. General Plan, A. The City shall continue to implement it's Water Efficient Landsca conservation and comply with State Assembly Bill 325 (AB 325), by requiring the use of pe Ordinance to optimize and other drought -tolerant planting materials and efficient irrigation systems. native B. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with the Coachella Valley Water District to expand and strengthen educational/public relations programs regarding the importance of water and water -efficient landscaping. conservation C. The City shall require the use of water conserving appliances and fixtures toilets, and low -flow showerheads and faucets, and require the application of technologies in conformance with Section 17921. such as low -flush California Administrative Code Section 1601 3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, water -conserving Code in all new developments. �)� and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State D. The City shall support CVWD's continuation and expansion use of tertiary treated wastewater as a means of reducing demand for groundwaterbarge efforts and E. The City shall coordinate with the CVWD regarding resources. tertiary treated wastewater treatment and distribution facilities te continued to serve use d future expansion of development projects in the City. ve existing and new Biological Resources Existing Condit, is TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures F. The City shall consult and coordinate with CVWD regarding the expansion and funding of sewer service to unconnected areas, and consider approaches and mechanisms that facilitate financing and construction of these facilities. G. The City shall require that all existing and new development be connected to the sewage treatment system of the Coachella Valley Water District. H. The City shall establish and enforce regulations and guidelines for the development and maintenance of project -specific on -site retention/detention basins, which implement the NPDES program, enhance groundwater recharge, complement regional flood control facilities, and address applicable community design policies. I. The City shall evaluate all proposed land use and development plans for their potential to create groundwater contamination hazards from point and non -point sources, and shall confer with other appropriate agencies, as necessary, to assure adequate review. I The City shall actively encourage and shall participate in the development of water management and conservation strategies, coordinating with CVAG and its member jurisdictions, the Coachella Valley Water District, Desert Water Agency and Mission Springs Water District on water supply and conservation programs. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. All development proposals shall be reviewed by the Community Development Department and City Engineer to assess potential adverse impacts on water quality and quantity. All developments shall be required to mitigate any significant impacts. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, City Engineer, Developers, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company. B . The Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company shall coordinate and cooperate with local, state and federal agencies to assure the protection of groundwater aquifer from excessive extraction. Responsible Parties: Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water District F. Biological Resources 1. Existing Conditions The biological resources within and surrounding the City of Palm Desert were assessed in a comprehensive study prepared for the Palm Desert General Plan Update.19 Preparation of the said biological resources study involved literature review which included the California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB), the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan, Administrative Draft Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), botanical and wildlife 19 "Palm Desert General Plan Update, Biological Report," prepared by Dr. Lawrence F. LaPrd, June 29, 2001. III-94 Bio ical Resources Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts aDraft General Plan EIR nd Mitigation Measures The goals of the Plan include standardized mitigation and compensation measures for species of concern on a regional basis, and meeting the requirements of federal and state protection laws for endangered species. Adoption of the MSCHP is anticipated to limit the need for individual project review of the potential effects of development activities on species of concern. 2. Project Impacts Potential Impacts to Plant Communities Grading and development of lands within the General Plan study area could potential) result in the destruction of entire populations of common and sensitive plant species. Elimination, depletion and modification of natural communities such as sand dunes and sand fields could result in significant impacts to species with extreme limited distribution such as the Coachella Valley milk vetch. Introduction of non-native plant species associated with landscaping could result in native plant species competing for water, nutrients and space. Adverse impacts to Glandular ditaxis plant species could occur with development projects at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Potential Impacts to Invertebrates and Reptiles Potential impacts to invertebrates and reptiles are associated with continued urbanization in the General Plan study area. The Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard, flat -tailed horned lizard, and the Coachella giant sand treader cricket are known to inhabit desert sand dunes and sandy flats. Urban development m may lead to disruption, fragmentation and even permanent loss of habitat which will substantially infect individuals or an entire animal population. These species are also subject to impacts from traffic ando ff- highway vehicles and crushing from grading and construction activities. Potential Impacts to Birds Increased urbanization will result in significant impacts to both common and sensitive General Plan study area. Bird species are susceptible to domestic pet predation, shoo ti g seasons, in estion of ng and capture be humans and electrocution from high voltage power lines. Disturbances to breedin pesticides which causes the thinning of egg shells, and introduction of parasites contribute to the decline of bird population. Habitat for the Burrowing Owl is destroyed or becomes fragmented when development occurs in lands containing sand dunes and sand fields. Bird species that inhabit hilly or mountainous terrain are subject to impacts associated with development within or adjacent to the slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Flood control could affect migratory riparian birds such as th Summer Tanager, Yellow Warbler, Least Bell's Vireo and Yellow -Breasted Chat. e Potential Impacts to Mammals ' Development activities include the clearing of lands of all vegetation and wildlife. The General study area supports a diverse range of common and sensitive mammals which are subject to ad Plan impacts resulting from urbanization of the surrounding environment. Stu verse ' encroachment on the hillsides of the Santa Rosa Mountains has already resulted d Ported that habitat acquiring food and water from project developments. Animal and plant species inhabitingth Y in bighorn sheep Rosa Mountains are also susceptible to human disturbances including shooting, capture i Santa g p or collection. The loss of sand dunes and sand field habitats will affect the Palm Springs Pocket Springs Round -tailed Ground Squirrel. Small mammals become predatorytargets ets Mouse and the Palm off -road vehicles and highway vehicles also contribute to the decline of sfor domestic pets and mall mammal population. III-109 Biologicaesources Nitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan Ent Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Landscaping of project development may include plants that are toxic to mammals through contact or ingestion. 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall continue to support and participate in the development of the Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan. B. The City shall designate all mountainous areas of the Santa Rosa Mountains, generally following the toe of slope, as Open Space for the protection of bighorn sheep and other species occurring in these habitats. C. Undeveloped lands that have not been graded, cleared or farmed at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains should be surveyed at the appropriate season for the presence of Glandular Ditaxis and the desert tortoise. D. The City shall not require fringe -toed lizard surveys for proposed projects on sand sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. The payment of the mitigation fee of $600 per acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan. E. Proposed projects within sand deposits throughout the northern General Plan study area should be surveyed at the appropriate season for potential presence of blowsand endemics, including the flat -tailed horned lizard, giant sand -treader cricket, and the Coachella Valley milk vetch. F. The City should require surveys for the gray vireo during the spring nesting season to evaluate potential impacts to this restricted -range bird species. Surveys for the dotted blue should also be required for evaluation of discretionary permits. Surveys for these particular bird species are applicable to development proposals within Section 36, T6S, R6E. G. Developments such as country clubs should be encouraged to establish grove plantings of untrimmed palm trees, which could provide roost sites for the southern yellow bat. H. Biological surveys for bats should be performed on projects involving reconstruction of bridges to determine if significant roost are present. I. The City should require water conservation and recycling for the Royal Carrizo, Pinyon Crest, and Chapman Ranch areas, in order to ensure adequate water supply for the endangered desert slender salamander. J. The City should consider the requirement that a barrier be constructed around the perimeter of ' any new project where the toe of slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains meets the valley floor. This would protect bighorn sheep and prevent additional habituation and reliance on food and water from developed areas. Informal consultation or review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and ' the California Department of Fish and Game should be completed prior to imposition of this III-110 Biological )nurces *40 Mitigation Measures a ■ a a ■ 7-1 I I I I TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Conditions, Impacts aDraft General dMitigatoPlan recommendation. This barrier is one of the recommended conservation actions in t sheep recovery plan. he bighorn K. The City shall encourage and cooperate in the establishment of multiple drainage channels and utility easements to provide wildlife corridors publipubli that use interconnections between open space areas, c access L. The City shall prepare and maintain a comprehensive list of plant materials native and non-native, drought tolerant trees, shrubs and groundcover that s, which 1 h shall include environment. A list of prohibited plant materials shall also be Prepared.complement the local Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall review information database and mapping system of sensitive habitats occurring within the General Plan study area, which shall be accurately animals and updated. and regularly Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, GIS Staff B • The Initial Study review process will be utilized to assess potential i projects on biological resources. Impacts shall be clearly documented and mit' recommended where appropriate. impacts of development igation measures Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Develo r/Co C• The City shall assure that all required biological resource� nsulting Biologist limited to off -site mitigations and/or the payment of imp act mitigation actions, including but not building permits, P fees are satisfied, prior to issuance of Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, D. Inspection during development and grading shall monitor Developer/Consulting Biologist assure the preservation and incorporation of native and other appropriate dese compliance with grading limits, and materials into all areas of the project according to the approved landscape desert landscape Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Develo Clan. Pe onsulting Biologist Cult u Resources Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures C. Has a special or particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, o of its kind; P g r last surviving example D. Is at least 100 years old and possesses substantial strati graphic integrity; or, E. Involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be answered only with archaeological methods. Based on the findings of the cultural resources study for the proposed General Plan update, the Palm Desert General Plan study area includes lands of high sensitivity for prehistoric and archaeological artifacts, as well as historic structures or historic -period archaeological remains. The study identifies that areas of high sensitivity y for prehistoric and archaeological remains occur in the various canyons in the Santa Rosa Mountains and Indio Hills and the alluvial fans at the canyon mouths, which would have provided the Native populations access to mountain and desert resources, as well as water sources in the canyons. However, it should be noted that the proposed General Plan Update designates the majority of these lands for conservation, and limited lands designated for development r are assigned very low densities. Areas particularly sensitive for historic structures or historic -period archaeological remains dating before 1940 are located along the Colorado River Aqueduct, between the Indio Hills and the Southern Pacific Railroad, and around the original community of Palm Village. Historic structures from the late 1940s and early 1950s most likely occur in the urban core of the city, along with outlying communities such as Thousand Palms, Cahuilla Hills and the Sky Valley area. As mentioned above, the City continues to participate in the preservation of cultural resources by implementing Historic Preservation Ordinance 401 and by establishing the Historic Site Preservation Board. The Historical Society of Palm Desert has also played an important role in the City's historic preservation efforts. Future development projects in the General Plan study area could potentially result in direct and/or indirect disturbance or destruction of sensitive archaeological and historic resources. Site surveys should be conducted on all future development projects, if deemed necessary, to determine the presence and significance of archaeological and historic resources. 3• Mitigation Measures Continued development and urbanization of the proposed decrease the opportunities for documenting and preserving archaeological olog cal and hi Boric sites and artifactsm Desert General Plan lanning area • ' The City of Palm Desert has the responsibility to assure that every reasonable effort is made to manage cultural resources properly and creatively within its jurisdiction. The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) identifies the manner in which the City must review and address issues related to archaeological and historic resources. Projects involving a federal agency, federal funding or other federal assistance must conform to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966. In addition, the following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce potential impacts to cultural resources to less than significant levels. 1 III-119 Cultural llurces Mitigation easures A I� C. D. E. F. Am H. J TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Im acts Draft d Mitigat General Plan a EIR es All development or land use proposals, which have the potential to cultural resources, shall be evaluated b comprehensive Phase I studies and appropriate riate disturb n destroy sensitive Y a qualified professional and, if necessary, Project approvals, p mitigation measures shall be incorporated into The City should establish a transmittal system with the .Eastern which the City may send a location map to the EIC for a Information Center development proposal is in its initial review phase transmittal -level records search henla absence of known cultural resources and/or pi•eviouThe transmittal shall identify area. The EIC shall also offer recommendationsrcp Y performed studies in and ear the project necessary, regarding the need for additional studies, where The City shall expand and enhance its historic preservation eorts Preservation plan and by considering participation in the Certified Ly preparing a historic ocal G The City shall also incorporate historic Government program. Preservation concerns into its zoning ordinance. The City shall establish and maintain an inventory of archaeological within its jurisdiction, includinglogical and historical resources University of California, Riverside and in focused entified cultural y the Eastern Information Center (EIC) at the resources studies. The City shall protect sensitive archaeological and historic resources collection to the greatest extent possible. The City information, which identifies specific locations o from vandalism and illegal manner, and access to such information shall be shall maintain mapping and similar, f sensitive cultural resources, in a confidential Professional or organizational ties, e provided only to those with appropriate The City shall support the listing of eligible structures or sites as their inclusion in the National Register of Historic Place. The City Potential historic landmarks and with the Palm Desert Historical Society and other appropriatety Fill consult and cooperate identifying and prioritizing sites which are eligible for listin as a in the National Register of Historic Places. ingas cultural organizations in g historic landmark or inclusion The City shall develop an application process for Cit -s on ro Y p sored incentives to maintain and enhance significant buildings and sites, and provide guidance on eligibility requirements. p PertY owners with information and In the event that archaeological resources are unexpectedly discovered during construction, the City shall require that development cease, and a professional p o determine subsequent activitie archaeologist shall be employed to examine and document the site to sand appropriate mitigation 0 it III-120 Air lity Existing Conditions TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring /Reporting Program A. Potential impacts of development projects on cultural resources shall be evaluated through the Initial Study review process. Impacts shall be clearly documented and mitigation measures recommended where appropriate. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting Archaeologist, UC-Riverside Eastern Information Center. B . City Staff shall review cultural resources reference materials and update City records and inventories on an annual basis to assure timely and adequate maintenance of the database. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, and UC-Riverside Eastern Information Center. H. Air Quality The air quality of a particular locale is a significant factor to public health and welfare. Over the past two decades, air quality improvements have occurred in Southern California and the Coachella Valley. However, the region continues to experience significant air pollution problems, particularly those associated with suspended particulates. The City of Palm Desert and other surrounding communities demonstrate their commitment to improving air quality in the region by implementing air quality management programs. 1. Existing Conditions The Coachella Valley is located within a meteorologically and geographically unique area. The surrounding mountains shield the valley from coastal influences from the west, and create a hot, low- lying desert environment. The valley is also prone to air inversions, in which a layer of stagnant air is trapped near the ground where it is further loaded with pollutants. This process, when combined with chemical aerosols and other pollutants emitted by automobiles, furnaces and other sources, can result in considerable haziness and increased pollutant levels. The Coachella Valley is also subject to strong and sustained winds that pick up and transport large quantities of sand and dust, depositing these materials on buildings, fabrics and automobiles, thereby reducing visibility and damaging property. Extensive wind-borne soil can dirty streets, pit windshields and damage landscaping. Dust on vegetation can interfere with plant respiration and stunt growth. The adverse health effects in humans can be severe and include reduced lung capacity and functioning. Air Quality Management and Regulation Air quality management in the proposed General quality standards and regulation pertaining oa v variety of as pollutants. governed by federal and state air The U.S. Environmental Pro tection Agency (EPA) implements the federal Clean Air Act (CAA), which is intended to ensure that all Americans have the basic health and environmental protections with regard to air quality. The CAA establishes minimum air pollution standards, but allows states to enact and III-121 Air Quality Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts draft Mitigation GeneralMeasures project emissions should be compared to the projected future baseline (without mitigation) for the years corresponding to project phasing and/or buildout year."' The projected future baseline for the Coachella Valley will be affected less by future growth in the Palm Desert General Plan area and more from growth in other valley communities with large amounts of affordable land available for development, including the aforementioned cities of Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, and the unincorporated areas. 3• Mitigation Measures The South Coast Air Quality Management District, CVAG and the City of Palm Desert share responsibility for monitoring air pollutant levels and regulating air pollution sources. Preservation of the environment and protection of the general public from harmful air pollutants involves monitoring and mitigating activities, which contribute to the degradation of local and regional air quality. A range of mitigation measures developed by federal, state and local agencies can be put into effect throughout the life of the General Plan to reduce pollutant emissions associated with General Plan buildout. The ongoing implementation and updating of California Title 24 Building Codes, combined with more efficient use of energy, can contribute to the reduction of impacts of pollutant emissions from heating, cooling, power plants and the consumption of natural gas. Alternative methods iof electrical power generation have and will continue to replace the need for additional fossil fuel -based generating capacity. In the State of California automobile smog checks are mandatory and are designed to ensure vehicle compliance with existing emissions standards. It is feasible that improvements to combustion technology and an overall decline in air pollutant will occur in the future. Cleaner fuels and more efficient transportation vehicles are expected to continue to evolve. Impacts to air quality associated with the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are potentially significant if left unmitigated. Within the context of the anticipated future baseline, Mitigation measures set forth below are provided to reduce General Plan air quality impacts to less than significant levels: A. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with CVAG and SCAQMD in the ongoing monitoring and management of major pollutants affecting the City and region, with particular focus on PMt , and shall provide all required reporting to be ultimately included in SCAQMD's annual report. B • The City shall develop and maintain its General Plan Land Use Element to assure that air Pollution point sources, such as manufacturing facilities, are located at an appropriate distance from residential areas and other sensitive land uses and receptors. C. The City shall encourage project developers to develop site plans that integrate buffer zones between sensitive receptors and point source emitters such as highways and industrial sources. "CEQA Air Quality Handbook," prepared by South Coast Air Quality Management District, April 1993. III-137 Air lity Mitig ion Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EiR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures D. The City shall review all development proposals for potential adverse effects on air quality and as appropriate, require detailed air quality analyses and mitigation measures to address any potentially significant impacts. Mitigation measures and dust control plans shall be approved by the City prior to the issuance of grading, construction, demolition or other permits. E. The City shall encourage the incorporation of energy -efficient design measures in site plans, including appropriate site orientation to assure solar access, and the use of shade and windbreak trees to enhance the use of alternative energy systems and to reduce the need for excessive heating and cooling. F. The City shall develop and maintain a diversified transportation .system that maximizes system efficiencies, minimizes vehicle miles traveled, and reduces the impact of motor vehicles on local air quality. G. The City shall continue to promote the development and use of pedestrian -oriented retail centers, as well as community -wide multi -use trails, dedicated bike lanes, golf cart paths, and other desirable alternatives to motor vehicle traffic. These components shall be integrated and periodically updated in the General Plan Circulation Element. H. The City shall implement and coordinate with the SCAQMD and CVAG to assure adequate monitoring of the effectiveness of transportation management programs of employers, including use of Sunline and other public transportation, coordinated carpooling, off-peak shift times, employee flex -time and other components. As future demand warrants, the City shall promote and support the development of a Park -and -Ride program to decrease existing and future traffic levels within the community. I. The City shall encourage the use of clean alternative energy sources for transportation, heating, cooling and electrical generation, to the greatest extent practical and shall encourage and coordinate with its franchise service providers and other public and private service providers to do same. J. The City shall continue to implement the Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance applicable to construction, grading and demolition activities, on -going land uses, and off -road vehicle use to reduce PM10 emissions to the greatest extent practical. K. The City shall continue to provide an effective street sweeping program that combats the cumulative impacts of blowsand, transportation -related dust generation, and nuisance dust that ' result from natural windstorm events. L. The City shall require the implementation of air quality control measures identified in the most ' current Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan. M. A PM10 Management Plan for construction operations shall be submitted with all develo ment ' proposals. The plan shall include dust management controls such as: p • watering the site and equipment morning and evening ' III-138 0 Air Quay Mitigat on Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures • spreading soil binders on disturbed areas, unpaved roads, and parking areas • operating street -sweepers on paved roads adjacent to site • re-establishing ground cover on construction site through seeding and watering • paving construction access roads, as appropriate N. To minimize construction equipment emissions, the City shall assure that developers and contractors shall, as appropriate, implement the following: • wash off trucks leaving the site • require trucks to maintain two -feet of freeboard • properly tune and maintain construction equipment • use low sulphur fuel for construction equipment O. To reduce construction -related traffic congestion, developers and contractors shall, as appropriate, implement the following: • encourage rideshare incentives for construction personnel • configure construction parking to minimize traffic interference • minimize obstruction of through -traffic lanes • provide a flag person to ensure safety at construction sites, as necessary • schedule operations affecting roadways for off-peak hours, as practical P. To minimize indirect -source emissions, developers may also: • implement energy conservation measures beyond state and local requirements • install low -polluting and high -efficiency appliances • install solar water heaters, to the greatest extent feasible • install energy -efficient street, landscape and parking lot lighting • include energy costs and design efficiency into capital expenditure analyses • landscape with native and other appropriate drought -resistant species to reduce water consumption and to provide passive solar benefits Q• To minimize building energy requirements, developers shall implement the following: • assure the thermal integrity of buildings and, as appropriate, reduce the thermal load with automated time clock or occupant sensors • use efficient window glazing, wall insulation and ventilation methods • use most efficient heating and other appliances, such as water heaters cooking equipment, refrigerators, furnaces and boiler units • incorporate appropriate passive solar design and solar heaters • use devices that minimize the combustion of fossil fuels • capture waste heat and re-employ this heat, to the greatest extent practicable Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A• The City Community Development Department shall coordinate with South Coast Air Quality Management District and CVAG to facilitate the maintenance and expansion of the Coachella Valley's existing air quality monitoring equipment. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCAQMD, CVAG III-139 Air Quality Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. The appropriate code enforcement division shall record, consolidate and retain all complaints it receives concerning air quality degradation from construction sites, vehicle emissions, industrial generators, and other sources of air quality impacts. A report on air quality complaints and identified problems shall be provided in the annual review of the General Plan. In addition, development may be temporarily halted until inadequate controls or unacceptable conditions are corrected to the satisfaction of the City and/or SCAQMD. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCAQMD, CVAG C. The City Public Works Department shall monitor the performance of the City's roadways system, identify areas of congestion and inefficient traffic movement, and develop recommendations to enhance the performance of all components of the City transportation system. Responsible Parties: City Public Works Department, SCAQMD, CVAG I. Noise The noise environment can have a significant influence on the health and comfort of a community. Assessment of the noise environment in the General Plan study area involved the preparation of a noise study by Urban Crossroads. The study examines the existing noise environment in the General Plan study area and projects the future noise impacts associated with General Plan buildout. This study is included in its entirety in Appendix E of this document. 1. Existing Conditions Noise is simply defined as unwanted sound. Excessive noise affects physical health, psychological well being, social cohesion, property values and economic productivity. The effects of noise on people include subjective effects, such as annoyance and nuisance; interference with activities such as conversation and sleep; and psychological effects, ranging from startle to hearing loss. Noise generators include components of urbanization such as construction equipment and activities, motor vehicles, air and rail traffic, mechanical equipment, household appliances and other sources. Generally, the City of Palm Desert enjoys a quiet noise environment, with existing community noise being dominated primarily by constant motor vehicle traffic on highways and major arterials. The noise environment of the General Plan study area is also affected by local airport operations. Given its location, the Bermuda Dunes Airport has the greatest impact in the General Plan study area. Commercial aviation at the Palm Springs Regional Airport occasionally has an intrusive but intermittent impact on the community's noise environment. However, current airport master plan improvements are projected to further reduce airport noise exposure in Palm Desert. Freight rail service along the Union Pacific Railroad lines located immediately south of and parallel to I- 10 are also responsible for generating substantial noise levels in the community. Other community noise generators include industrial operations, construction activities, special event noise, live music, home III-140 Noise Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Commercial and Industrial Noise Commercial and industrial activities generate noise resulting from loading and docking operations, truck operations, and mechanical equipment installed both outside and inside buildings. Sensitive noise receptors adjacent to commercial and industrial land uses are anticipated to experience the significant impacts of noise associated with commercial and industrial activities. The review of commercial and industrial projects, particularly those in close proximity to sensitive receptors, for land use and noise compatibility issues is critical as the General Plan study area continues to expand. The use of new technologies, combined with the design requirements imposed by the City, including screening and enclosures for stationary equipment, will help to mitigate potential impacts associated with General Plan buildout. Construction Noise Construction noise constitutes a short-term impact on adjacent land uses. However, significant noise impacts could result from construction activities such as heavy construction equipment, that can generate noise levels ranging from 68 dBA to 100 dBA when measured at 50 feet from the noise source. 3• Mitigation Measures Continued growth and development in the General Plan study area will result in significant impacts associated with noise. Strategic land use and transportation planning, project design mitigation, and acoustical barriers contribute highly to the management of the City's noise environment. Noise Ordinance In 1985, the City of Palm Desert adopted Title 9, Chapter 9.24 of its Municipal Code, which established community -wide noise standards to emphasize the value of an acceptable noise environment. The City Noise Control Ordinance provides regulations for noise measurement and monitoring and cites special provisions of, and exemptions to, the ordinance. It is intended to regulate excessive noise from existing uses and associated activities, and to serve as a reference guide for identifying other pertinent noise regulations. The Palm Desert Noise Control Ordinance provides definitions of key terms and establishes exterior noise level standards on a time -of -day basis along with adjustments for intensity and duration. According to the City Noise Ordinance, the exterior noise one -hour standard for residential land uses is 55 dB between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 45 dB between 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Violations of the Noise Control Ordinance are considered as a nuisance and subject to the procedures, remedies and penalties set forth in the City's Violations/Infractions Ordinance. Noise Barriers Because of the linear qualities of noise, barriers, such as walls, can be effective in reducing its impacts. It is important to note, however, that noise barriers must be of sufficient height and length to obstruct the noise source entirely (generally in Palm Desert this noise source will be the City's roadways). Reductions of 10 to 15 dB can be achieved with effective, solid walls which block the line of site from a home to the adjacent roadway. The noise standards in the General Plan are intended to guide the location of future noise generators and sensitive land uses. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented to reduce im acts associated with noise to less than significant level: p III-151 Noise Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, impacts and Mitigation Measures Categorical Mitigation Measures The following discussion describes the specific mitigation measures, which are stated on a categorical basis to address identified impacts. Construction Noise A. The City shall restrict grading and construction activities that may affect residential neighborhoods and other sensitive land uses to specified days of the week and times of the day. B. All construction equipment operating in the General Plan study area shall be fitted with well maintained functional mufflers to limit noise emissions. C. To the greatest extent feasible, earth moving and hauling routes shall be located away from nearby existing residences. D. Any portion of development in the General Plan study area involving blasting or pile driving operations shall have a focused acoustical study conducted, to establish the level and duration of off -site noise and vibration impacts and appropriate mitigation measures. On -Site Stationary Noise Sources E. The design, selection and placement of the mechanical equipment for various buildings within the General Plan study area shall include consideration of the potential noise impact on nearby residences, both within the any development and in the surrounding community. F. Silencers and/or barriers shall be provided where necessary at outdoor equipment, such as cooling towers, air cooled condensers and refrigeration compressors/condenser units, and at the air intake and discharge openings for building ventilation systems. G. Appropriate sound barriers shall be provided surrounding any and all public facilities capable of generating disturbing levels of noise, such as water pumping stations. Off -Site Traffic Noise H. Potential noise impacts shall be considered in the final site plans for all proposed projects within the General Plan study area. Factors to be considered shall include the strategic arrangement of housing to provide necessary shielding of outdoor living areas, the incorporation of additional setbacks from roadways, and/or the construction of additional noise barriers. I. Project designs shall be required to include measures which assure that interior noise levels for residential development do not exceed 45 CNEL, as required by Title 25, California Noise Insulation Standards. J. Land uses that are compatible with higher noise levels shall be located adjacent to the City's major arterial roads and highways, including the Interstate-10 corridor, to maximize noise related land use compatibility. III-152 NoiAT NILtigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures K. The City shall require the preparation of a noise impact analysis for all commercial and industrial projects which are to be located adjacent to residential land uses or other sensitive land use designations. The required noise impact analysis shall evaluate potential impacts of the project and provide for adequate mitigation measures to assure that City standards for residential and/or other sensitive land uses are maintained. L. The City shall encourage a City-wide circulation pattern which places primary traffic loads on major arterials and preserves local neighborhood noise environments by limiting roadways to local traffic to the greatest extent practical. Mitigation Monitorin a ort' g/R p ing Program A . Establish and periodically update an inventory of existing significant noise sources and incompatible areas, and develop procedures to reduce the noise effects on these areas, where economically and aesthetically feasible. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department B. Periodically review land use patterns and the community noise environment, and amend the land use map as appropriate to assure reasonable and use/noise compatibility. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, City Council C. In areas subject to potentially significant noise impacts, the City shall require new development to monitor and document compliance with all applicable noise level limits. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department Pre -Construction D. During project -specific site planning and building design, ensure acoustical analysis takes into consideration the following: • selection and placement of mechanical equipment for all buildings, • shielding and buffering of mechanical equipment for all buildings, • strategic location of attached residences to provide shielding of outdoor living spaces, • theme wall is constructed to noise barrier specifications, • designate acceptable truck/construction equipment route(s), as appropriate, • construction drawings shall include exact acoustical specifications for window glass in buildings with unshielded first and second floor windows which experience noise exposures above CNEL 65 and, • verify that design plans of specific projects within the General Plan study area comply with State Code requirements of unit -to -unit airborne sound isolation Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor and City Community Development Department I 1 111-153 Noises' Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures During Construction E. Ensure functional mufflers on all construction equipment. Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor, Building Department F. Ensure that designated truck/construction equipment routes are being utilized. Responsible Parties: General and Grading Contractor, Building Department G. Ensure construction equipment operates during the hours set in the Noise Ordinance, except in emergencies. Responsible Parties: General Contractor, Building Department J. Visual Resources 1. Existing Conditions Regional Setting The City of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley benefit from significant viewsheds created by the area's geology. On the north, the Valley is bordered by the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains, as well as the Indio Hills. Much of this land, which borders the General Plan study area, has been protected as open space in perpetuity by the creation of the Joshua Tree National Monument. The Indio Hills are south of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Edom Hill rises to an elevation of 1,614 feet. The Indio Hills are upgradient from the planning area, and can be seen from many parts of the General Plan study area. Edom Hill, located easterly of the planning area, rises to an elevation of just over 1,600 feet above sea level. The San Jacinto Mountains comprise the western boundary of the Coachella Valley, along with the significant peak of San Gorgonio. The San Jacinto Mountains rise sharply from the Valley floor, and represent the steepest gradient in North America. The San Jacinto range, although clearly visible from most parts of the City, is not immediately adjacent to the General Plan study area. The General Plan study area is bordered on the south by the Santa Rosa Mountains. The highest peaks in this range include Toro Peak, at 8,717 feet above sea level, and Santa Rosa Peak at 8,000 feet above sea level. Through the City, Highway 111 follows roughly the toe of slope of this range, which provides a stunning backdrop to the City's built environment. The San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains were designated a National Monument by Congress in 2000, ensuring their preservation as a valuable scenic resource for the long term. Local Setting The majority of the City and planning area are located on the Valley floor, at elevations close to sea level. Only the southern part of the City, located east and west of Highway 74, occurs at more significant elevations, in the Santa Rosa mountains. Development in south Palm Desert, from El Paseo to Bighorn Country Club, occurs on the alluvial fan which falls from the Santa Rosa foothills to the III-154 Visual Resod urces Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan E1R Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Miti ation Measures Valley floor. The balance of the City and planning area, further south, is designated for open space land uses, and will not experience development. The development which has occurred in the City and in adjacent communities abuts the Santa Rosa mountains, and has created a striking contrast visible from most of the Valley, and therefore its most significant visual resource. In the northern o p rtion of the study area, development to date has been limited beyond Interstate 10. This area is characteristic of the wind-blown sand dunes created by climatic conditions in the area, and has limited visual value. 2. Project Impacts Buildout of the Preferred Alternative is expected to result in the continuation of development as currently occurs in the City. The generally suburban and resort -oriented nature of residential and commercial development will not change significantly with buildout of the General Plan. The General Plan also does not propose to significantly change the generally low-rise, and thus low density, types of structures which have been built in the past. All development, however, will continue to change the appearance of the Valley floor, and has the potential to significantly impact the City's scenic viewsheds. This is particularly true in areas of the study area which have been traditionally under or undeveloped, in the area north of Interstate 10 to the San Bernardino Mountains. Careful consideration of the character of this area is important to its future integration into the built environment of the City. The proposed General Plan includes a number of policies and programs, located in the Community Design Element, which ensure that the construction of all types of structures in the future will be sensitive to scenic viewsheds, surrounding development, and the City's character. The Plan either regulates development, or requires that the zoning ordinance and municipal code be amended to include standards for development. The northern portion of the study area is also particularly susceptible to the impacts associated with light and glare. Since this area is currently under -developed, night time lighting is limited, and generally consists primarily of car headlights and outdoor security lighting. As this area develops, the night time lighting levels are likely to increase, and change its visual character. The General Plan includes provisions for limited lighting, and policies and programs provided in the Community Design Element specifically require that outdoor lighting be sensitive to dark sky principles. The proposed General Plan Land Use Map designates the Santa Rosa Mountains as Open Space. This designation significantly restricts the potential for development. These measures will limit development to the valley floor and preserve the high visual quality of the Santa Rosa Mountains. 3. Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures further assure that buildout of the General Plan will have limited impacts n the City's visual resources. III-155 Visual resources Litigation Measures M TN/City of Palm Desert Draft Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts Plan EIR d M tG at onlMeasures A. Overhead utility lines shall be undergrounded to the greatest extent possible throu h the establishment of an undergrounding program and guidelines. g B. The City shall coordinate with utility providers, including but not limited to Southern California Edison, the Imperial Irrigation District, The Gas Company, and Verizon to assure that utility infrastructure, including water wells, substations, and switching/control facilities are effectively screened to preserve scenic viewsheds and limit visual clutter. C. Outdoor lighting shall be limited to the minimum height, number of fixtures, and intensity needed to provide sufficient security and identification in each development, making every reasonable effort to protect the community's night skies. D. Signage shall be limited to the locations, sizes, and maintenance requirements necessary to Provide functional identification. azY E. Commercial and mixed use development projects shall incorporate safe, convenient vehicular and pedestrian circulation, screened outdoor storage/loading and other unsightly areas, protected and enhanced outdoor seating areas, appropriate lighting levels, limited signage, and landscaping designs that preserve and enhance visual resources. F. Commercial and mixed use development shall be designed with particular attention to limitin the lighting impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods. g G. All grading and development proposed within scenic viewsheds, including hillsides, shall be regulated to minimize adverse impacts to these viewsheds. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall maintain and amend the Municipal Code as necessary to assure the design parameters to which public and private development projects must conform are clearly defined. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, City Council. K. Public Services and Facilities Schools 1• Existing Conditions Public education services and facilities are provided to the General Plan study area by two school districts: Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) and Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD). DSUSD serves most of the developed portion of the study area, including lands south of Frank Sinatra Drive, and lands located north of Interstate-10 and east of Washington Street. The PSUSD district includes the remainder of the study area, including northwestern Palm Desert and the Thousa Palms and Sky Valley communities. nd III-156 "I Public Serves and Facilities Schools M w 3• Mitigation Measures 7N/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts draft General Plan MeasuresEi A. Developers will continue to be assessed the statutory school mitigation fees for residential commercial development. and & In the event that developers in the planning area attempt to utilize Mello -Roos or other types public facilities financing districts, both school districts shall be included in discussionof determine whether funding streams may be used for school facilities. The Districts hav s to following alternatives available to mitigate significant impacts to area schools: a the agreement between school districts and the state toProvidefor - This act is an the construction, reconstruction, or replacement of school facilities by the State Allocation Board. First priority for future state funding will go to districts with 1) a substantial enrollment in year- round schools, 2) the ability to raise 50 percent of project costs, and 3) the opening of a new facility as a year-round school. _LeacP-P�irrtiaep erranQe ents - Many districts may enter into lease -purchase arrangements with private builders of portable classrooms (Section 39240 and 39290 of the State Education Code). This method can also be used to finance capital outlay. An additional advantage of lease -purchase agreements is that they offer the benefits of long-term debt financing without obtaining voter approval of special taxes or benefit assessments. Mello -Roos Community Facilities ec* Provisions for this funding option are located in Government Code Section 55311 et. seq. A school district must initiate proceedings to declare itself a community facilities district to benefit from this Act. A community facilities district is defined as a governmental entity established to carry out specific activities within specifically defined boundaries. Such a district may engage in the purchase, construction or rehabilitation of an real or tangible property with an estimated useful life of five years or longer. y Mitigation Monitoring/ Reporting Program A. The City of Palm Desert will consult and cooperate with the Desert Sands n Unified School Districts to continue to monitor public schools in the G eralnd Palm Springs perfor and to determine the extent of overcrowding, security issues, low mance on standardized study area, tests, and other adverse impacts on area schools. standardized Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Cit Coun Unified School District, Palm Springs Unified School District y cil, Desert Sands 1II-159 Public Services and Facilities Library TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Libraries 1. Existing Conditions Palm Desert lic Lihrary The Palm Desert Public Library is a branch of the Riverside County Library System and is located at 73- 300 Fred Waring Drive. The library encompasses approximately 20,000 square feet of a 40,000 square foot facility, which it shares with the College of the Desert Library. Although their books and resources are physically separated, the two libraries have a reciprocity agreement and also share an online research database and checkout desk. The Palm Desert Public Library contains approximately 75,000 volumes and is staffed by five full-time employees, 15 part-time employees, and approximately 35 volunteers. The library operates a youth story -time program and adult computer classes, and supports the County- wide Literacy Program, which is managed from the Indio Public Library. The Palm Desert Public Library is a multi -agency facility, which is part of the Riverside County Library System. Each year, approximately 2.7% of the City's 1% property tax revenue is paid to Riverside County for basic library operations and services. The City also allocates General Fund revenues to pay for additional library services, which are above and beyond those provided under the County contract. Specifically, these funds cover expenses for three additional hours of operation on Thursdays, a volunteer program and coordinator, special events programs, and a special events coordinator. College of the Desert T 'brary The College of the Desert (COD) opened its on -campus library concurrent with the aforementioned community library in January, 1996. As described above, the library shares a building and reciprocity agreement with the Palm Desert Public Library. All library services are available to COD students and the general public. The COD Library contains more than 50,000 volumes. Other features include a computer lab, local history room, children's story room, community meeting room and seminar rooms. The City is responsible for funding a portion of ongoing maintenance and structural improvements to the library. Thousand Palms Public Libraa The Thousand Palms Branch of the Riverside County Library is located at 72-715 La Canada Way. The library is staffed by one full-time branch manager, two part-time employees, and eight volunteers. Special community programs include children's story -time, crafts and reading clubs. The County and residents of Thousand Palms are raising funds and applying for grants with hope of constructing a permanent library facility in about 2005 or 2006. The new facility would be located on a donated parcel of land on Robert Road. 2. Project Impacts The County of Riverside seeks to maintain an unadopted standard of 2 volumes and 0.5 square feet of library space per capita.' Buildout of the General Plan is anticipated to generate approximately 148,387 ' Gary Christmas, Riverside County Librarian, personal communication March, 2000. III-160 PubliFV c Police 60wices and Facilities TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts a Draft ti General Plan a EIR residents6. Based on this projected population and the County's unadopted level of service standards, the General Plan study area will require about 74,194 square feet of library space and about 296,774 volumes at buildout. It should be noted that, General Plan buildout population is dependent upon actual levels of development in the General Plan study area. 3• Mitigation Measures A. The Cityand County unty shall continue to monitor and evaluate the existing usage rate and level of services provided at the libraries in the General Plan study area to determine the need for additional services and facilities. B. The City shall consult and coordinate with Riverside County to determine appropriate miti ation fees necessary to provide adequate library services. g Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City and County shall continue to monitor library needs and utilization to provide essential library services to the residents of the General Plan study area. Responsible Parties: City Manage, County Librarian Police Protection 1• Existing Conditions The City of Palm Desert contracts with the Riverside County Sheriff's Department for police protection services. The City Police Department operates out of the Palm Desert Station located at 73 520 Fred Waring Drive. The Palm Desert Station also functions as the Sheriff's base of operations for the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells, and unincorporated County lands west of Washington Street including the Thousand Palms and Sky Valley communities. Lands east of Washington Street, including the Bermuda Dunes community, are served by staff based at the Indio Station of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. ny Police protection services are provided to the City on a 24-hour daily basis. The Palm Desert force comprises a total of 70 sworn officers and provides about 1.75 sworn officers for evepolice residents, which is comparable to the regional average and provides an every 1,000 Protection. The average response time for the highest priority emergency effective level in police P y rgency calls (code 1) is 4.6 minutes. 2• Project Impacts Adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan could potentially generate Population of approximately 148,387 residents.' The proposed General Plan intendsffiprovide rovide a police t staffing ratio of at least 1.5 sworn officers per 1,000 residents. In order to meet this prefer-redoliceratio at t 6 Based on exiting and potential new dwelling units associated with proposed General Plan buildout, household, added to the existing Ibid. City population of 43,917 and Planning area population of 22,756.and 2.43 persons per Ill-16l Pub1,Services and Facilities Fire TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Proposed Fire Stations The City has begun setting aside funds for a new fire station to be constructed in the vicinity of Cook Street and Interstate-10. The station will provide additional fire protection coverage to development in this vicinity, including the Coachella Valley Campus of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). It is anticipated that the station would be constructed within the next five years, however the actual construction schedule will depend upon future levels of development. Fire Marshall Services One of the most important services provided by the Fire Department to the City is that of the Fire Marshal, who is responsible for providing project review services for adequate access, building siting and internal circulation for fire and other emergency vehicles, the need for sprinklers and minimum fire flows from hydrants, and other design issues associated with fire protection. The Fire Marshal also coordinates department fire inspectors, who inspect each commercial building in the City at least once each year. The Fire Marshal and inspection staff are provided office space at Station 50 in Rancho Mirage and serve the three contract cities. 2. Project Impacts Continued development and population growth in the General Plan study area is anticipated to increase demand for fire protection services. Additional fire protection services will include increase in staffing, firefighters, fire stations, fire trucks, and rescue vehicles. Increased demand for fire protection services associated with development in rural areas of the General Plan study area will also involve expansion of water mains and the provision of new fire hydrants. Additional fire protection services could result in significant costs to the City. As with police department costs, increases in property and sales tax revenues will provide funding sources for increased service. As the General Plan study area builds out, it will be necessary to evaluate these impacts to fire protection services. 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall continue to promote close coordin ation ination with the Fire Department for the timely expansion of services and facilities. B. The Fire Department shall continue to main tain mutual aid agreements with the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells for additional fire protection support. C. The Fire Department p shall continue to review new development proposals and assess the Department's capacity to provide sufficient fire protection services. This shall include, but is not limited to, review of internal circulation patterns, street names and numbering systems. D. The City and the Fire Department shall continue to enforce fire codes and other applicable standards and regulations during review of building plans and conducting building inspections. INK Public vices and Facilities Fire TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures E. The siting of industrial facilities which involve storage of hazardous, flammable or explosive materials shall be conducted in a manner that will ensure the highest level of safety in strict conformance with the Uniform Fire Code and other applicable regulations. F. Coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company to assure adequate water supplies and pressure for existing and proposed development. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting program A. The Riverside County Fire Department shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with all applicable fire protection requirements. Responsible Parties: Riverside County Fire Department Health Care Facilities and Services 1• Existing Conditions In addition to a number of local physicians' offices and urgent care facilities, several large health care facilities are located in the vicinity of the General Plan study area. A discussion of major health care facilities is provided below. The Eisenhower Medical Center on Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is the closest medical facility to the subject property. The medical center complex encompasses 98t acres consisting of several facilities, which include the Eisenhower Medical Center, the Annenberg Center for World Health Sciences, the Betty Ford Center for Chemical Dependency, the Dolores Hope Outpatient Care Center and the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center. The medical center currently has 261 beds, an intensive care unit and emergency room. The complex also includes the Community Blood Bank and other office and research buildings. The Andrew Allen Surgical Pavilion is a state-of-the-art medical surgical facility with ten operating rooms. Desert Regional Medical Center is located at 1150 N. Indian Avenue in Palm Springs. It is a private, non-profit hospital that is licensed for 388 beds and has a 24-hour emergency room and Level II Trauma Care facility. The hospital has a Home Health Care department that provides in -home nursing care and household maintenance services. It also includes the Hospice of the Desert Communities, which offers services for the terminally ill. The Comprehensive Cancer Center of the Desert is a department of the Desert Regional Medical Center, which provides services to cancer -diagnosed individuals. John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital islocated at 47-111 Monroe Street in Indio. In addition to the many medical and health services offered at JFK, a 24 hour emergency room and a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient services are also available. The hospital, with its recent building addition, is currently licensed for 162 beds and includes 16 beds in the ICU unit and 24 beds in the medical/surgical unit. III-166 r .1 L, Public Services and Facilities Health care TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts Builout of the proposed General Plan is not expected to have any significant adverse impacts on the medical facilities in the area. As independent facilities, Valley hospitals will continue to plan for growth in order to accommodate population increases associated with the implementation of the proposed General Plan. It is expected that all three of the Valley hospitals will expand as needs are identified and that regional health care facilities will be able to adequately service the future population. 3. Mitigation Measures Regional and local medical health care facilities will continue to plan for growth, and therefore no mitigation measures are necessary. Solid Waste Management 1. Existing Conditions Solid waste collection and disposal services are provided by Waste Management of the Desert through an exclusive franchise agreement with the City of Palm Desert. Waste Management also serves the Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes and Sky Valley communities, which are within the General Plan study area. Commercial pick-up is offered up to six days per week, and residential pick-up is typically once per week. Waste Management offers additional services to large waste generators, including restaurants, retailers, hotels and resorts. Trash collected in the City and planning area is disposed at the Edom Hill Landfill approximately miles northwest of the Palm Desert city limits. The landfill is owned and operated by RiversideC County, and accepts waste from most Coachella Valley communities. The current operating permit allows for a maximum of 2,651 tons of waste per day. During 2000, the landfill received an average of 1,295 tons per day. In March 2000, the remaining capacity of the landfill was approximately 4.5 million cubic yards. The landfill is nearing its maximum capacity and is expected to close in 2004. The City of Palm Desert and other Coachella Valley communities are actively planning for and selecting viable alternative landfill sites. Alternatives considered include Eagle Mountain Landfill, Mesquite Landfill, Badlands Landfill, Lamb Canyon and the El Sobrante Landfills. In 1997, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the Eagle Mountain Landfill and Recycling Center. The landfill will encompass'2,164 acres and a total capacity of 708 million tons with a life expectancy of 100 years. Litigation has delayed construction of the Eagle Mountain Landfill and Recycling Center, therefore, the City must continue to pursue other options for the immediate future. The Mesquite Landfill in Imperial County is also being purchased by the Los Angeles County Sanitation District and is expected to have a capacity similar to that of the Eagle Mountain Landfill. Its construction is also being delayed by litigation, and the future of both these landfills remains unclear. 1 III-167 Publ Services and Facilities too Wast ater TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department shall maintain close contact with project developers to assure the provision and maintenance of recycling containers that correspond with current City programs and those planned in the future. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Waste Management of the Desert Wastewater Collection and Treatment 1. Existing Conditions Wastewater collection and treatment services are provided by the Coachella Valley Water District to the City of Palm Desert, and majority of the General Plan study area. Wastewater is transmitted through sewer trunk lines generally ranging in size from 4 to 24 inches, relying primarily on gravity flow. Effluent from the City is conveyed to CVWD's Cook Street treatment plant (Water Reclamation Plant No. 10), which has a current capacity of 18 million gallons per day. Effluent from Bermuda Dunes, Del Webb's Sun City and other development north of Miles Avenue is conveyed to the treatment plant located at Madison Street and Avenue 38 (Water Reclamation Plant No. 7). This plant treats approximately 2.4 million gallons of wastewater per day, and has a capacity of 5 million gallons per day. CVWD continually increases the capacity of its plants by constructing new treatment ponds, aeration plants and other structures. While much of the General Plan study area is connected to CVWD's sewer system, several areas still rely on septic systems for wastewater disposal. These areas include Sky Valley and scattered residential development in the Thousand Palms area. Wastewater contains contaminants, such as nitrogen, bacteria and organic chemicals that have the potential to degrade the quality of groundwater and render it unsuitable for human consumption. The long-term use of septic tanks has been associated with contamination of groundwater supplies in limited areas of the Coachella Valley. In 1994, the City adopted Chapter 8.60 of the Municipal Code, an ordinance which requires all properties, buildings and structures to abandon existing septic tanks, seepage pits and/or cesspools and to connect to the available public sewer system prior to the sale or transfer of ownership. The sewer connection ordinance also establishes a certificate of compliance process to document abandoning of the on -lot system and connection to the community sewer system. Tertiary Treated Water In an effort to alleviate the impacts of development on groundwater supplies, CVWD has implemented the use of tertiary (third stage) treated wastewater for use in golf course, landscape and other irrigation. Wastewater is typically treated to secondary levels and reintroduced into the groundwater table through percolation ponds, with passage through sands and soils providing a final stage of filtration. Tertiary treated water undergoes an additional stage of treatment, making it immediately suitable for irrigation purposes and decreasing, to some extent, the demand for groundwater resources. III-170 Publibtw3ervices and Facilities *40*1 Wastewater I TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts draft aft genial Plan asE Rures The Cook Street wastewater treatment plant has a tertiary water capacity of 15 million gallons per day (mgd). The Cook Street plant generates from 1.2 to 7.8 mgd of tertiary treated water, with the average being approximately 4.4 mgd. The treatment plant at Madison Street and Avenue 38 generates from 0.8 to 2.5 mgd of tertiary treated water, and has a maximum current capacity of 2.5. This plant is planned for expansion to treat 5 mgd within the next few years. 2• Project Impacts Buildout of the proposed General Plan will result in an increased demand on existing wastewater collection and treatment facilities. Domestic wastewater flows average about 100 gallons per capita per day-9 Based on this factor and the estimated buildout population of 148,387 residents, the General Plan study area has the potential to generate approximately 14,838,700 gallons of wastewater per day. Actual wastewater generation rates will be dependent upon future levels of development. The increase in demand for wastewater collection and treatment services at General Plan buildout may represent a potential significant increase over the current level of service provided. However, buildout of the General Plan study area is anticipated to occur gradually, therefore it is safe to assume that the increase in demand to wastewater collection and treatment services will not be experienced at one time. Nonetheless, it is necessary that the City and the Coachella Valley Water District continue to monitor growth trends in the General Plan study area to assure that wastewater services are adequate, as well as to determine the need and funding for additional facilities. 3• Mitigation Measures A. All development shall be connected to the city-wide sewer possible. Septic systems shall be prohibited where soil conditions do not system, tote greatest extent permit percolation. B. The City shall investigate and evaluate alternative methods of financing a city-wide sewer system and converting existing septic systems to sewer, including redevelopment funds, assessments and other funding mechanisms. C. The City shall cooperate and coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District to assure that adequate wastewater collection and treatment facilities ate provided to serve development in the General Plan study area. . D. The City shall coordinate with Coachella Valley Water District to monitor the demand for tertiary treated water within the General Plan study area, and shall investigate the feasibility of providing tertiary treated water as demand warrants. 9 « Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook," prepared by John G. Rau and David C. Wooten, 1980. 111-171 *40 Public Seces and Facilities Wastewater TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Draft lPlan es Conditions, Impacts dMitigat'onMeasures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department and Public Works shall confer nate with the Coachella Valley Water District to develop plans for implementing city- idersewer service. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, City Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Water District Domestic Water Services 1• Existing Conditions Coachella Valley Water District The Coachella Valley Water District CVWD ) provides City of Palm Desert, including Thousand Palms, and Del dWebb's Sun City. Comestic water Vs to the majority of the deep wells to extract groundwater from the Whitewater River Subbasin. CVWD's domestic waterlsystem, hich serves the City, includes SO wells with anaverage depth of 900 feet. CVWD also has a total of 27 reservoirs serving the General Plan study area, with an average capacity of 1.8 million gallons. Some of these reservoirs may also serve pressure zones which extend beyond the study area. The largest i.e. main or trunk) water lines are generally located along section lines, with smaller lines branching individual sections. g into The Coachella Valley Water District also provides domestic water services to the Sky Valle community, in the northern portion of the General Plan planning area. Due to high concentrations of undesirable minerals, CVWD does not extract water for domestic use from the Desert Hot S rin Subbasin, which underlies the community of Sky Valley. Rather, water delivery infrastructure in this gs area includes main lines that transmit water from CVWD wells located in the Mission Creek Subbasin west of Palm Drive. Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company + The Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company t community, except for development along Wash ng on Streetswhi h iswaterse served b servicestC the Bermuda Dunes i wells, drilled to depths of 750 to 800 feet, can each produce 1,700 to 3,200 gallons VWof Df is five active water minute. Three of the production wells discharge water directly into the water distributions stem, whiiceh conveys water through distribution water mains ranging in size from 4 to 12 inches in diameter. The two other wells deliver water directly into a water reservoir near the intersection of 41" Avenue an Hermitage Drive. The reservoir has a capacity of one million gallons. Myoma Dunes operates a d t well, which is used solely by the Bermuda Dunes Airport and is not connected tthe e water delivery h system. 2• Project Impacts Continued increases in water demand generated by development in the Coachella Valley, including General Plan study area, could have significant cumulative impacts on the region's groundwater supply. the The Coachella Valley Water District has developed water usage factors for a variety of land uses based III-172 I Cl Ell Put c Services and Facilities Don*tic Plater TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Im acts and Mitigation Measures on usage per acre. Table I11-46 illustrates these factors, and the associated acreages within the General Plan study area. Table III-46 General Plan Buildout Water Con Annual Consumption Factor (ac- to ment T ft/ac1 r) Course Developments and Large iential Lots (_ 0.5 ac) 7.: tments and Condominiums 6 : lential (Lots < 0.5 ac) 0 Is and Motels 8 . less Offices 51 line Stations 5 1 :market Shopping Centers. 4J c Schools 4 l Shopping Areas 3 trial Parks & Auto Dealers 2.4 sum non Acres Total Annual Consumption (ac-W r) 16 24,504 180,349 1 3,795 24,136 14,698 89,511 ' '5 329 919 2,882 5,376 1 186 895 'S 521 1,454 2,261 4,435 7 1,100 47,5061 2,717 312.562 According to CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the General Plan will result in usage of 312,562 acre feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum Buildout of all land uses, and is therefore expected to be conservative. It should be noted that increases in water consumption will occur gradually, over the life of the General Plan study area. Actual impacts to domestic water services are dependent upon the levels and types of development that will occur in the General Plan study area. Section III-E provides a comprehensive discussion regarding impacts to water resources and quality in the General Plan study area. 1 3. Mitigation Measures A. All future development projects shall be reviewed by the City, Coachella Valley Water District or Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company to evaluate potential impacts of development activities on local groundwater resources. B. The City shall require the development of on -site stormwater retention/detention enhance infiltration of runoff and the replenishment of groundwater subbasibasins to C. The City, Coachella Valley Water District, and M oma Dunes ny shall encourage the use of drought tolerant landscaping i public and private develop development means of water conservation. All development plans shall be required to adhere to the City's landscape ordinance. 1 111-173 Public Serv' 's and Facilities Domestic Wa , TN/City of Palm Desert General Plan EIR aft Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts drMitigation Measures D. The City shall encourage and/or require the installation of low -flush toilets, low -flow showerheads and faucets in all new construction, in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Community Development Department shall review all development proposals to assess the potential for adverse effects on water quality and quantity. All development proposals shall be required to mitigate any significant impacts. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company, Developers Electricity 1• Existing Conditions Southern California Edison Southern California Edison (SCE) provides electricity to the majority of the Palm Desert General Plan study area. Its service area includes most of the City of Palm Desert, excluding a portion of the California State University/San Bernardino (CSSB) Coachella Valley Campus site, Avondale Country Club and other limited areas south of US Interstate-10 (see Imperial Irrigation District discussion below), and lands west of Ford Avenue in Sky Valley. SCE's electric power is primarily generated outside the Coachella Valley, however, it does purchase wind -generated power from local producers. SCE's facilities include high -voltage transmission lines, which range up to 115 kilovolts (kv) in the City of Palm Desert and up to 500 kv in the northern portion of the General Plan planning area. Lower - voltage distribution lines, which are typically gauged at about 12 kv in the study area , provide electricity to individual residences and other users. Three substations are located within the City of Palm Desert and are used to step down voltage for local distribution. The substations include: 1) Silver Spur Substation, located south of Haystack Road and west of Portola Avenue; 2) Palm Village Substation, located south of Highway 111 and east of Deep Canyon Road; and 3) Concho Substation, located south of Country Club Drive and east of Cook Street, near the Indian Ridge Country Club. In addition, some circuits from the Santa Rosa Substation, located west of Monterey Avenue and north of Clancy Lane in Rancho Mirage, feed into the City of Palm Desert. Imperial Irrigation District Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is a non-profit, community -owned utility district that serves customers in Imperial County and parts of Riverside and San Diego counties. IID provides electric service to a limited portion of the Palm Desert General Plan study area, including the Avondale Country Club, most of the CSSB Coachella Valley Campus, Sun City, Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes and the eastern portion of Sky Valley. IID obtains its power from a combination of hydroelectric, thermal, diesel, and 111-174 Pub*6 Services and Facilities *4041 Electricity TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existing Conditions, Im acts draft General Plan a EI 3• Mitigation Measures ures A• Developers shall coordinate and cooperate with Southern California Edison and Impe Irrigation District in implementing load management programs which level the demand oad al generating capacities. Every effort shall be made to assure the highest level of energy conservation available. B. Any proposed development in the General Plan study area shall be subject to the require the Uniform Building Code and Title 24 of the California Administrative Code. menu of C. Project developers shall be required to utilize energy efficient design to minimize su solar gains and reduce air conditioning loads. miner time D. The use of energy efficient lighting fixtures in developments within the General Plan stud shall be required, y area Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting program A. The Community Development Department, Public Works Department, and Building Department shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with Title 24 energy conservation code requirements. Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District and the City Community Development Department shall provide Responsible Parties: City Communitcient developers with references for energy effideartmentsi n. y Development Department, Public Works De Building Department, Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District P B. Prior to the undergrounding of utility lines, all affected utility companies shall be contac detailed information about system restrictions, district boundaries, and scheduling. ted for Responsible Parties: Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District, Verizo California, The Gas Company, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company Natural Gas 1, Existing Conditions The Southern California Gas (SCG) Company provides natural gas services and facilities to the City of Texas Palm Desert and its General Plan study area. Locally used natural gas originates in Tex and is transported to the Coachella Valley via three east -west trending high pressure gas transmission li which cross the valley just north of Interstate-10 and continue west to Los Angeles. The line nes, one 30-inch line and two 24-inch lines, with pressures of 2,000 pounds per square inch (Psi) s include Within the General Plan study area, high pressure gas lines are located beneath Washington Street, Highway 111, Sierra del Sol (serving Thousand Palms), and Dillon Road (serving Sky Va are typically steel lines with pressures of 300 psi. The Washington Street and Sierra del Sol lines tap directly into the major transmission lines north of I-10. Medium pressure distribution lines tap are located J I1I-176 Publici64 rvices and Facilities140 Naturaas TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures within the rights -of -way of Country Club Drive, Fred Waring Drive, Monterey Avenue, Cook Street, and Highway 74. These lines range from 38 to 42 psi, and are typically constructed of 4-inch plastic, although older lines may be made of steel. Although most of the City of Palm Desert is connected to the natural gas system, lands west of the Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, parallel to Highway 74, are not served. Residents in this area use propane gas as an alternative fuel source. The Gas Company estimates the average household in its service area consumes 6,600 cubic feet of natural gas per month. Table III-48 illustrates natural gas consumption factors established by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Table III-48 Natural Gas Consumption Factors Land Use Monthly Consumption Rate Single Family Residential Multiple 6,665.0 cf/unit/month Family Residential 4,011.5 cf/sq.ft./month Retail/Shopping Center 2.9 cf/ sq.ft /month Office Hotel/Motel 2.0 cf/ sq.ft /month Industrial 4.8 cf/ sq.ft /month 4.8 cf/ on .ft /month Note: Industrial usage factor used is equivalent to the highest commercial usage factor provided by SCAQMD. Source: 9, April 1993 SCAQMD Air Quality Handbook, Appendix to Chapter 2. Project Impacts An increase in demand for natural gas services is anticipated as the General Plan study area builds out. Natural gas consumption is estimated at 614,046,131 cubic feet per month at General Plan buildout. This figure represents both existing and future developments in the General Plan study area, and assumes buildout at moderate densities. Actual natural gas consumption will be determined by future levels of development, individual project designs, and the effectiveness of energy -conserving measures. Development facilitated by the proposed General Plan will increase the rate of consumption of this non- renewable source and will contribute to cumulative impacts on the long-term availability of natural gas. However, General Plan buildout, in and of itself, is not expected to significantly impact natural gas supplies or the provider's ability to deliver it. 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall strictly enforce Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, which addresses energy conservation in new developments. B. Developers shall install the most efficient furnaces, water heaters, pool heaters and other equipment that use natural gas. Developers shall also encourage the use of kitchen appliances III-177 v Publi�,,,, y'ervices and Facilities Naturai Gas `` TN/City of Palm Desert Section III - Existingt nConditions, Impacts and MitigalMeasureess that utilize natural gas and shall investigate the possibility of using alternative energy, sources including solar and co -generation technologies. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Community Development and Public Works Department shall inspect all detailed project plans to assure conformance with Title 24 energy conservation code requirements. The Community Development Department shall coordinate with The Gas Company to provide developers with references for energy efficient design. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Public Works Department The Gas Company Telephone Service 1• Existing Conditions Verizon California provides local residential and business telephone services to the General Plan stud area. The Verizon California headquarter is in Thousand Oaks, however local customer service facilities are located in the cities of Palm Springs and Indio. Verizon services include a variety of basic and special features, including local and long distance services, calling cards, business 800 numbers, and voicemail, as well as state-of-the-art data services such as internet and high-speed DSL connections. The General Plan study area includes three central switching offices, which function as the backbone of the communications system and are responsible for the connection of telephone and data transmissions. Central offices are located in Palm Desert, on the north side of Highway 111, between San Jose and San Juan Avenues; in Bermuda Dunes, on the east side of Washington Street at Avenue of the States; and in Thousand Palms, on the west side of Arbol Real, between La Canada Way and Ramon Road. Calls to the Sky Valley area are handled out of a central switching office in Desert Hot Springs. 2• Project Impacts Growth facilitated by the proposed General Plan will generate additional demands on existing infrastructure and will require the expansion of telephone services to areas not currently served. However, no significant impacts are anticipated with the implementation of the proposed General Plan that will affect the ability of Verizon, California to provide telecommunication services in the General Plan study area, 3• Mitigation Measures A. Developers shall provide required right-of-way for new Verizon conduit systems to rovide telephone services to their sites. P III-178 Soc 'rcononic Resources I 9NWou Measures *410 TN/City of Palm Desert. Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures persons are likely to purchase their homes, and will occupy units built on lands designated Low Density residential, which will generate an additional 24,905 units in the City, and 14,261 units in the Sphere and planning area. In comparison with the Current General Plan, which has the potential to generate 9,663 medium and high density units within the City limits, and 15,570 medium and high density units in the Sphere and planning area, the Preferred Alternative land use plan represents an increase of 47% in the potential for the City to house its employees in the Medium and High Density Residential land use categories alone. 3. Mitigation Measures The Draft General Plan includes a number of policies which will serve to guide the City's economic health in the next several years. The City's aggressive economic development policy will continue to facilitate the creation of jobs and associated revenues. A. The City shall monitor the employment generated by its commercial and industrial land uses, and periodically analyse this generation in comparison to the residential land use allocations to encourage the provision of adequate housing for as many of its workers as practical. B . The City shall evaluate new development or redevelopment to assure that these uses complement, support and are compatible with the City's core economic assets. C. The City shall consider economic implications of annexations as part of the approval process for annexation requests. D. The City shall continue to encourage the development of hotels, resort hotels and timeshare projects in the City. E. The City shall continue to encourage the development of new and expanded educational facilities of all levels in the City. F. The City shall be aggressive in its retention of existing businesses and recruitment of new businesses that complement the City's core economic assets. G. The City shall coordinate its Capital Improvement plans to assure the provision of adequate infrastructure to support and facilitate development of commercial and light industrial projects which expand the City's economic base. H. All projects shall contribute their fair share of on- and off -site improvements required to support their site. I The City shall routinely review and revise, as necessary, the allocation of revenues re uired to mitigate the impacts of growth. q III-203 Socio—P •nosic Resources Mitigabodn Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures J. Prior to any annexation effort, the City shall evaluate the feasibility of annexing land to assure its economic and fiscal viability. K. The City Zoning Ordinance and Development Code shall be updated, revised and expanded to assure analysis regimes and standards and guidelines that assure adequate protection of the City's core economic interests and especially the preservation of the natural environment. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program A. The City shall continue to monitor economic growth and focus its Economic Development efforts in areas of retail, resort and educational services. Responsible Parties: City Council, Redevelopment Agency, City Manager. B. The City shall analyse land use development patterns annually, and determine whether amendments to the land use map are required to encourage a balance of housing and jobs. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department C. The City shall prepare economic feasibility analyses for all potential annexation efforts, as part of the decision -making process for annexations. 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Form A Notice of Completion & Environmental Document Transmittal Mail to: State Clearinghouse, P. O. Box 3044, Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 SCH # (916) 445-0613 state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure Assessment Dist.2004-02 Lead Agency: C i t- v o f Pa I in D es e r t Contact Person: Philip Drell Mailing Address: 77_� 0 F r P d W a r �g D r i v e Phone: (7 6 0) 3 4 6— 0 61 t e x t 4 81 City Palm Desert---- --- zip 92201 County: Riverside ---- Project Location: (See Map) — — — — — — — County: _ Riverside Cross Streets: Gerald Ford/Monte Assessor's Parcel No.various Within 2 Miles: State Hwy #: I —10 Airports: City/Nearest Community: _Palm Desert e Y_._.........................._._ Zip Code: 9 2 2 6 0 Total Acres: 3 5 0 2 9 Tw Section: �[ _....__ __._._..------—p. S _ Range: 6 E Base: — S. B-. ------- Waterways: Railways: UnionPacific Schools: CalState SB/Palm De t _____ ser Document Type------------------------------------ CEQA: ❑ NOP ❑ Supplement/Subsequent EIR ❑ Early Cons NEPA: ❑ NOI Other: ❑Joint Document (Prior SCH No.) ❑ Neg Dec M Other M i t . N e g —.D e c . ❑ EA ❑ Final Document ❑ Draft EIS ❑ Draft EIR ❑ Other ❑ FONSI ---------------------------------- Local Action Type: ❑ General Plan Update ❑ Specific Plan ❑ General Plan Amendment ❑ Master ❑ Rezone ❑ Annexation Plan ❑ Prezone ❑ ❑ Redevelopment General Plan Element ❑ Planned Unit Development ❑ Use Permit ❑ ❑ Community Plan ❑ Site Plan Coastal Permit ❑ Land Division (Subdivision, etc.) M OtherA -------------------------------------- s s e m n D i s t Development Type See list of infrastructure improvements — ❑ Residential: Units Acres ❑ Office: Sq.ft. Acres M Transportation: Type local Streets Employees ❑ Commercial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Mining: Mineral ❑ Power: Type ❑ Industrial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees Watts -. M Waste Treatment: Type s e w e ❑ Educational ❑ Recreational r D e s ❑ Hazardous Waste: Type - ® Water Facilities: Type Wa t i n MGD M Other: storm drainage lines ------------------------- Funding (approx.): Federal $ State $ ----------------------------------------- Total $ 5 0 , 000 , 000 Project Issues Discussed in Document: M Aesthetic/Visual ❑ FloodPlain/Flooding M Agricultural Land ❑ Forest Land/Fire Hazard ❑ Schools/Universities M Water Quality M Air Quality M Geologic/Seismic ❑ Septic Systems ❑ Water Supply/Groundwater M Sewer M Archeological/Historical M Minerals ❑ Wetland/Riparian ❑ Soil Erosion/Compaction/Grading ® Wildlife ® Noise ❑ Drainage/Absorption M Population/Housing Balance ❑ Solid Waste ❑ Growth Inducing ® Toxic/Hazardous ❑ Economic/Jobs M Public Services/Facilities ❑ Fiscal M Land Use M Traffic/Circulation M Cumulative Effects M Recreation/Parks ----------------------------------------- ❑ Vegetation Capacity ❑ Other Present Land Use/Zoning/General Plan Designation: Land Use: Vacant; Zoning: Planned Residential 5_13 du/ac & Planned Commercial/Industrial Project Description: Formation of assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Initial Study including streets, traffic signals, landscaping, water, sewer and stormdrain improvements. January2004 IN Reviewing Agencies Chect Resources Agency Boating & Waterways Coastal Conservancy Colorado River Board Conservation Fish & Game Forestry & Fire Protection Office of Historic Preservation Parks & Recreation Reclamation Board S.F. Bay Conservation & Development Commission Water Resources (DWR) Business, Transportation & Housing Aeronautics California Highway Patrol __S_CALTRANS District #_B_ Department of Transportation Planning (headquarters) Housing & Community Development Food & Agriculture Health & Welfare Health Services State & Consumer Services General Services Form A, continu. KEY S = Document sent by lead agency X = Document sent by SCH ,/ = Suggested distribution Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board California Waste Management Board SWRCB: Clean Water Grants SWRCB: Delta Unit SWRCB: Water Quality SWRCB: Water Rights Regional WQCB # ( ) Youth & Adult Corrections Corrections Independent Commissions & Offices Energy Commission Native American Heritage Commission Public Utilities Commission Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy State Lands Commission Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Other ----------------------------------------- Public Review Period (to be filled in by lead agency) Starting Date August 28, 2006 Ending Date September 28, 2006 Signature Date August 25, 2006 Lead Agency (Complete if applicable): Consulting Finn: Address: City/State/Zip: Contact: Phone: () Applicant: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: ( ) For SCH Use Only: Date Received at SCH Date Review Starts Date to Agencies Date to SCH Clearance Date Notes: Form A cm Notice of Completion & Environmental Document Transmittal Mail to: State Clearinghouse, P. O. Box 3044, Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 (916) 445-0613 state.clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov Project Title: sG'&on ,R5 rU sip- 1PL a n of �y►dWf� s`iptr�aul� W S�+Q I Lead Agency: G &-I o F �t kNn V eSer*t Contact Person - _ Mailing Address: % 3T r'l D 1Frea VJ ar 114!h �. Phone: (76 0 City: 'FhtWl 6Ce—Jt Zip: County: LIZIQ -------------- Project Looation: L. .i & e- yvu4-Q SCH # -D22 County: _12lV+ejPficGe _ City/Nearest Community: �t tv►�4r--.-____-_.._ _-_- Cross Streets eeyA" T=oeA / Ih/l_O vckGN! Zip Code: JO 2,,6 49 Total Acres: Assessor's Parcel No. Section: Twp. .J S Range: 6 15 Base: Within 2 Miles: State Hwy #: Waterways: Airports: Railways: ( ;� � fi 4 Schools: S 5t Document Type: CEQA: ❑ NOP ❑ Supplement/Subsequent EIR NEPA: ❑ NOI Other: ❑ Joint Document ❑ Early Cons (Prior SCH No.) ❑ EA ❑ Final Document ❑ Neg Dec Other Pgft 0111� . Dim ❑ Draft EIS ❑ Other ❑ Draft EIR ❑ FONSI ----------------------------------------- Local Action Type: ❑ General Plan Update ❑ Specific Plan ❑ Rezone ❑ Annexation ❑ General Plan Amendment ❑ Master Plan ❑ Prezone ❑ Redevelopment ❑ General Plan Element ❑ Planned Unit Development ❑ Use Pennit ❑ Coastal Permit ❑ Community Plan ❑ Site Plan ❑ Land Division (Subdivision, etc.) 2-6therbsc#- — — — — — — — — — -- — — — �—, J— — — — Development Type: � ps'f" d� tr► 7 ktLVd. — — -- — — — — — — — 1 s l-O Cww�g — — ❑ Residential: Units Acres B.-Transportation: Type toad s" y-e-As. ❑ Office: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Mining: Mineral ❑ Commercial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Power: Type Watts ❑ Industrial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees BKVaste Treatment: Type S tu-9 -er' 1 Ly1.GS ❑ Educational ❑ Hazardous W ste: Type ❑ Recreational 53o Other: 5 a. G?'Water Facilities: Type N it y4gs MGD ----------------------------------------- Funding (approx.): Federal $ State $ Total $ 0oo 000 — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — Project Issues Discussed in Document: — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — 1A Aesthetic/Visual ❑ Flood Plain/Flooding ❑ Schools/Universities g% Water Quality Agricultural Land ❑ Forest Land/Fire Hazard ❑ Septic Systems ❑ Water Supply/Groundwater j1Q Air Quality PL Geologie/Seismic 1W Sewer ❑ Wetland/Riparian W Arelreological/Historical IW Minerals ❑ Soil Erosion/Compaction/Grading fid Wildlife ❑ Coastal Zone IR Noise ❑ Solid Waste ❑ Growth Inducing ❑ Drainage/Absorption )Q Population/Housing Balance fit Toxic/Hazardous Ff Land Use ❑ Economic/Jobs or Public Services/Facilities X Traffic/Circulation J29 Cumulative Effects ❑ Fiscal j19 Recreation/Parks — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — — ❑ Vegetation Capacity — — — — — — — — — — — ❑ Other — — — — — — — — — — — Present Land Use/Zoning/General Plan Designation: ----------------------------------------- Project Description: i A1n Of ".S tS,1 *-t L.?"'" `[l anuary 2004 �v, lw Reviewing Agencies Che%.at Resources Agency Boating & Waterways Coastal Conservancy Colorado River Board Conservation Fish & Game Forestry & Fire Protection Office of Historic Preservation Parks & Recreation Reclamation Board S.F. Bay Conservation & Development Commission Water Resources (DWR) Business, Transportation & Housing Aeronautics California Highway Patrol CALTRANS District # Department of Transportation Planning (headquarters) Housing & Community Development Food & Agriculture Health & Welfare Health Services State & Consumer Services General Services Form A, continue KEY S = Document sent by lead agency X = Document sent by SCH ✓ = Suggested distribution Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board California Waste Management Board SWRCB: Clean Water Grants SWRCB: Delta Unit SWRCB: Water Quality SWRCB: Water Rights Regional WQCB # Youth & Adult Corrections Corrections Independent Commissions & Offices Energy Commission Native American Heritage Commission Public Utilities Commission Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy State Lands Commission Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Other Public Review Period (to be filled in by lead agency) Starting Date 1�0-\4 Ending Date Signature Lead Agency (Complete if applicable): Consulting Firm: Address: Applicant: Address: il-:� �-t Date �z For SCH Use Only: Date Received at SCH Date Review Starts Date to Agencies Date to SCH Clearance Date Notes: Form A Notice of Completion & Environmental Document Transmittal Mail to: State Clearinghouse, P. O. Box 3044, Sacramento, CA 95812-3044 (916) 445-0613 state. clearinghouse@opr.ca.gov Project Title: — scx # Lead Agency:___,_ Contact Person: Mailing Address: Phone: City: Zip: County: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Project Location: County: City/Nearest Community: Cross Streets Zip Code: Total Acres: Assessor's Parcel No Section: Twp. Range: Base: Within 2 Miles: State Hwy #: Waterways: Airports: Railways: Schools: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Document Type: - - - - - - - CEQA: ❑ NOP ❑ Supplement/Subsequent EIR NEPA: ❑ NOI Other: ❑ Joint Document ❑ Early Cons (Prior SCH No.) ❑ EA ❑ Final Document ❑ Neg Dec ❑ Other ❑ Draft EIS ❑ Other_ ❑ Draft EIR ❑ FONSI - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Local Action Type: ❑ General Plan Update ❑ Specific Plan ❑ Rezone ❑ Annexation ❑ General Plan Amendment ❑ Master Plan ❑ Prezone ❑ Redevelopment ❑ General Plan Element ❑ Planned Unit Development ❑ Use Permit ❑ Coastal Permit ❑ Community Plan ❑ Site Plan ❑ Land Division (Subdivision, etc.) ❑ Other - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Development Type: - - - - - - - - - - - ❑ Residential: Units Acres ❑ Transportation: Type ❑ Office: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Mining: Mineral ❑ Commercial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Power: Type Watts ❑ Industrial: Sq.ft. Acres Employees ❑ Waste Treatment: Type ❑ Educational ❑ Hazardous Waste: Type ❑ Recreational ❑ Other: ❑ Water Facilities: "Type MGD ----------------------------------------- Funding (approx.): Federal $ State S Total S Project Issues Discussed in Document: ❑ Aesthetic/Visual ❑ Flood Plain/Flooding ❑ Schools/Universities ❑ Water Quality ❑ Agricultural Land ❑ Forest Land/Fire Hazard ❑ Septic Systems ❑ Water Supply/Groundwater ❑ Air Quality ❑ Geologic/Seismic ❑ Sewer ❑ Wetland/Riparian ❑ Archeological/Historical ❑ Minerals ❑ Soil Erosion/Compaction/Grading ❑ Wildlife ❑ Coastal Zone ❑ Noise ❑ Solid Waste ❑ Growth Inducing ❑ Drainage/Absorption ❑ Population/I lousing Balance ❑ Toxicillazardous ❑ Land Use ❑ Economic/Jobs ❑ Public Services/Facilities ❑ Traffic/Circulation ❑ Cumulative Effects ❑ Fiscal ❑ Recreation/Parks ❑ Vegetation Capacity ❑ Other Present Land Use/Zoning/General Plan Designation: - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Project Description: January 2004 `fir Reviewing Agencies Checklist Resources Agency Boating & Waterways Coastal Conservancy Colorado River Board Conservation Fish & Game Forestry & Fire Protection Office of Historic Preservation Parks & Recreation Reclamation Board S.F. Bay Conservation & Development Commission Water Resources (DWR) Business, Transportation & Housing Aeronautics California Highway Patrol CALTRANS District # Department of Transportation Planning (headquarters) Housing & Community Development Food & Agriculture Health & Welfare Health Services State & Consumer Services General Services Public Review Period (to be filled in by lead agency) Starting Date Signature Lead Agency (Complete if applicable): Consulting Firm: Address: City/State/Zip: Contact: Phone: ( ) Applicant: Address: City/State/Zip: Phone: ,W,. Form A, continued KEY S = Document sent by lead agency X = Document sent by SCH ✓ = Suggested distribution Environmental Protection Agency Air Resources Board California Waste Management Board SWRCB: Clean Water Grants SWRCB: Delta Unit SWRCB: Water Quality SWRCB: Water Rights Regional WQCB # Youth & Adult Corrections Corrections Independent Commissions & Offices Energy Commission Native American Heritage Commission Public Utilities Commission Santa Monica Mountains Conservancy State Lands Commission Tahoe Regional Planning Agency Other Ending Date Date For SCH Use Only: Date Received at SCH Date Review Starts Date to Agencies Date to SCH Clearance Date Notes: RESOLUTION NO. 06- 138 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT IN CONNECTION WITH THE PROPOSED SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT TO MAKE ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS WITH RESPECT THERETO AND TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION IN CONNECTION THEREWITH RECITALS: WHEREAS, the owners of certain property located within the City of Palm Desert, as shown on Exhibit A, attached hereto, have requested the City Council to initiate proceedings pursuant to the Municipal Improvement Act of 1913 (Division 12 of the Streets and Highways Code, commencing with Section 10,000) (the "1913 Act") to form an assessment district to be known as the "Section 29 Assessment District" for the purpose of acquiring, constructing and installing certain public infrastructure improvements (sewer and water lines, street improvements, storm drainage) of special benefit to the properties in the Assessment District; and WHEREAS, City staff has prepared an initial study (the "Initial Study") for the project, as defined in paragraph 8, and Exhibit A of the Initial Study (the "Project'), including formation of the Assessment District and financing the facilities described therein, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act, commencing with Section 21000 of the California Public Resources Code and the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, Article 5 of Chapter 3 of Division 6 of Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations, (collectively "CEQA"). The Initial Study concluded that the Project would not result in any significant adverse environmental impacts with the implementation of certain mitigation measures. Therefore a Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared and circulated for a 30-day public review and comment period, during which the City received comment letters from the Coachella Valley Water District, the Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT: Recitals. The above recitals are all true and correct. 2. CEQA. a. The City Council of the City, the lead agency for the Project, has considered the Mitigated Negative Declaration and comment letters from the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), the Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities RESOLUTION NO. 06- 13s Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, and the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). b. The CVWD and the SCAG letters raised no environmental issues c. Responses to the environmental issues raised by Native American Heritage Commission, the State of California Public Utilities Commission, the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District were provided in the staff report to the City Council. Those responses, in addition to other documentation in the administrative record, provide substantial evidence to support the conclusion that the project will not have the potential for significant impacts provided that certain mitigation measures are implemented. d. The City Council hereby finds, in its independent judgment after considering all relevant evidence in the record of proceedings for the Project, including without limitation the information set forth in the Mitigated Negative Declaration, the Initial Study and the staff report, that there is not substantial evidence supporting a fair argument that the Project may actually produce any significant environmental impacts that cannot be mitigated to a less than significant level through implementation of those mitigation measures identified in the Mitigated Negative Declaration. Therefore, the City Council finds that the Project will not have a significant environmental effect. e. The City Council finds that the Mitigated Negative Declaration reflects the City Council's independent judgment and analysis. F. The City Council hereby adopts the Mitigated Negative Declaration and the Mitigation, Monitoring and Reporting Plan for the proposed Project, attached hereto as Exhibit "B" and incorporated herein by reference. 3. Notice of Determination. The City Council hereby directs staff to prepare a Notice of Determination, to file that Notice with the County Clerk in accordance with Section 15075(d) of the California Environmental Quality Act Guidelines, and to pay the applicable Fish and Game filing fee within five (5) days of the adoption of this Resolution. 4. Other Acts. The officers of the City are hereby authorized and directed, jointly and severally, to do any and all things, and to execute and deliver any and all documents which they may deem necessary or advisable, in order to effectuate the purposes of this Resolution, and any such actions previously taken by such officers are hereby ratified and confirmed. P6401\1033\9215S1v1 2 RESOLUTION NO. 06-138 PASSED AND ADOPTED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, on thel2th day of October 2006, by the following vote: I - AYES: BENSON, KELLY, SPIEGEL, and FERGUSON NOES: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE ATTEST: -4 IE-5 -W"ASSE %..# RA NOTL' L -K, City Clerk City of Palm Desert, California P6401\1033\92158IvI EXHIBIT "A" P6401\1033\921581v1 A-1 ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST FORM 1, Project Title: Section 29 Master Plan of InfrastrUCtUre, Assessment District 2004-02 2. Lead Agency Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm DesertCA 92260 3. Contact Person and Phone Number: Philip Drell (760) 346-0611 ext. 481 4. Project Location: Area generally bounded by Gerald Ford Drive Portola Avenue Monterey Avenue, 35U' Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive (see attached man) 5. Project Sponsor's Name and Address: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm DesertCA 92260 6. General Plan Designation: R-L, R-M/R-HO, C-R 7. Zoning: PR-5 PCD. SI 8. Description of Project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheet(s) if necessary.) Formation of an assessment district to finance public infrastructure improvements described in Exhibit A. 9. Surrounding Land Uses and Setting: (Briefly describe the project's surroundings.) The area is surrounded by commercial residential resort and industrial land uses. 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement): Palm Springs Unified School District Coachella Valley Water District California Department of Transportation ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Agriculture Resources Air Quality Biological Resources F1 Cultural Resources Geology / Soils Hazards & Hazardous Materials Hydrology / Water Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources Noise Population / Housing El Public Services Recreation ❑ Transportation / Traffic Utilities / Service Systems Mandatory Findings of Significance CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\.1TB\2005\22625.1 Page 1 of 15 FORM "J" DETERM'.17`y1ATIO11 (To be completed by the Lead Agency): On the basis of this initial evaluation: n I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the enviromnent, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. ® I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. -%a �, Signature Date Philip Drell Printed Name For EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS: A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g. the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g. the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect is significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). CITY (STANDARD)1SACUTB\?005\22625.1 Page 2 of 15 FORM "J" Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program E1R, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analyses Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g. general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. Supporting Information Sources. A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. The explanation of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance. SAMPLE QUESTION Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Issues: Impact Incorporated Impact Impact AESTHETICS. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on ❑ ❑ ❑ a scenic vista? b) Substantially damage scenic ❑ ❑ ❑ resources, including, but not limited to, tress, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? c) Substantially degrade the existing ❑ visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? d) Create a new source of substantial ❑ ❑ ❑ light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\-)005\22628.1 Page 3 of 15 FORM "d" Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact AGRICULTURE RESOURCES. In determining whether impacts to agricultural resources are significant environmental effects, lead agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997) prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an optional model to use in assessing impacts on agriculture and farmland. Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique ® ❑ ❑ Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use? b) Conflict with existing zoning for ❑ ❑ agricultural use, or a Williamson ❑ t� Act contract? c) Involve other changes in the existing ❑ ❑ ❑ environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non- agricultural use? AIR QUALITY. Where available, the significance criteria established by the applicable air quality management or air pollution control district may be relied upon to make the following determinations. Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the applicable air El❑ ❑ quality plan? b) Violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an El ❑ existing or projected air quality violation? c) Result in a cumulatively net increase of any ❑ ❑ El criteria pollutant for which the project region is nonattaimmnt under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005L2628.1 Page 4 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: d) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? e) Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? c) Have a substantial adverse effect on federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? Potentially Significant Impact El 0 ❑� Less Than Significant With Less Than Mitigation Significant No Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Lfr J u MR- ❑■ X X [NJ 0 CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\-005\22628.1 Page 5 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conseivation plan? CULTURAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in § 15064.5? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to § 15064.5? c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? d) Disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries? GEOLOGY AND SOILS. Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? iii) Seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction? iv) Landslides? b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? Less Than Significant Poteiitiall With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ III ❑ ❑ ❑ 2 ❑ ❑ ❑ L� ❑ c' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ z` ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑/ CITY (STANDARD)\SACVTB�-1005\1-2625.1 Page 6 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18 1 B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property? e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS. Would the project: a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorpoorrated Impact Impact ❑ Er( ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ U ❑ ❑ ❑ 2' ❑ ❑ ❑ C� ❑ ❑ ❑ Er CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\'-7005\22628.1 Page 7 of 15 FORM "J Less Than Significant 1_'oienhilly With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact e) For a project located within an FJ El airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two mules of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? f) For a project within the vicinity of a El airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? g) Impair implementation of or ❑ ❑ ^�, physically interfere with an adopted LM' emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? h) Expose people or structures to a ❑ significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires, including where wildlands are adjacent to urbanized areas or where residences are intermixed with wildlands? HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY. Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards discharge O ^� or waste requirements? L� b) Substantially deplete groundwater El El or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that there would be a net deficit in aquifer volume or a lowering of the local groundwater table level (e.g., the production rate of pre-existing nearby wells would drop to a level which would not support existing land uses or planned uses for which permits have been granted)? c) Substantially alter the existing El El drainage pattern of the site or area, ❑ including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site? CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\2005\.?2628.1 Page 8 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: d) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? e) Create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned storm water drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? f) Otherwise substantially degrade water quality? g) Place housing within a 100-year flood hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? h) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? i) Expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving flooding, including flooding as a result of the failure of a levee or dam? j) Expose people or structures to inundation by seiche, tsunami, or mudflow? LAND USE AND PLANNING. Would the proj ect: a) Physically divide an established community? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Imppacc°t Impact ❑ ❑ 52 , ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ ❑ ❑ 21, ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ffr ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ 2r ❑ ❑ ❑ [T` CITY (STANDARD)\SAC'\JTB\2005\22628.1 Page 9 of 15 FORM " 7" Issues: b) Conflict with any applicable land use plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? c) Conflict with any applicable habitat conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? MINERAL RESOURCES. Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally -important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? NOISE. Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? b) Exposure of persons to or generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundbome noise levels? c) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? d) A substantial temporary or periodic increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ 2-, ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ C' ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ c/ ❑ ❑ ❑ 5?� U I Y (STANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 10 of 15 FORM " J" Less Than SigniEcal Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Issues: Impact hrcorporated Impact Impact e) For a project located within an ❑ ❑ ❑ airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two mules of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? f) For a project within the vicinity of a ❑ ❑ ❑ [[� private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? POPULATION AND HOUSING. Would the proj ect: a) Induce substantial population ❑ ❑ growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of road or other infrastructure)? b) Displace substantial numbers of ❑ ❑ ❑ existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? c) Displace substantial numbers of ❑ ❑ ❑ people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? PUBLIC SERVICES. Would the project: a) . Result in substantial. adverse ❑ ❑ ❑ physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? ❑ ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\.ITB\2005\�)2625.1 Page 11 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: Police protection? Schools? Parks? Other public facilities? RECREATION. Would the project: a) Increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? b) Does the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which have an adverse physical effect on the environment? TRANSPORTATION / TRAFFIC. Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? b) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? c) Result in a change in air traffic patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? d) Substantially increase hazards due to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? Less Than S lgnlficatlt Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact^ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ [a/ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ Er ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ (51ANDARD)\SACVTB\2005\22628.1 Page 12 of 15 FORM "J Issues: e) Result in inadequate emergency access? f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ I &°f ❑ ❑ ❑ Fkr ❑ ❑ ❑- Er b) Require or result in the construction ❑ ❑ ❑ LJ of new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? c) Require or result in the construction ❑ ❑ ❑ [[ of new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? d) Have sufficient water supplies ❑ ❑ ❑ available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? In making this determination, the City shall consider whether the project is subject to the water supply assessment requirements of Water Code Section 10910, et. sea. (SB 610), and the requirements of Government Code Section 664737 (SB 221). CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JT13\2005\22628.I Page 13 of 15 FORM " 7" Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Issues: Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact e) Result in a determination by the El ❑ wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project's projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? 0 Be served by a landfill with El sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate the project's solid waste disposal needs? g) Comply with federal, state, and local El El statutes and regulations related to solid waste? MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) Does the project have the potential El ❑ to substantially degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species; cause a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels; threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community; substantially reduce the number or restrict the range of an endangered, rare or threatened species; or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have the potential El 0 ❑ to achieve short-term environmental goals to the disadvantage of long- term environmental goals? c) Does the project have impacts that ❑ are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in cormection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects.) CITY (STANDARD)\SAC\JTB\2005\.y2628.1 Page 14 of 15 FORM "J" Issues: d) Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Less Than Significant Potentially With Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact ❑ ❑ ❑ CITY (STANDARD)\SACUTB\7-005\22625.1 Page 15 of 15 FORM 47" CU C� 0 C) CU a z l� nnH// CZ I F Q W Q F W ,JJgz S Ic � CV t I W V l � Q W � o �- C4 v �oQ W UL) Q Q z 0 IW Cal O CL W ► w i a _o z oo o < oz O a NZQI� w � N xQ a Wi �W w _ J LL a 0ll LLNO�� r=-� 3 ► OJ <N O=LL I °� 2H U Wm a gµUµw°�Fw� O �WO a �5�Uvy aina how q > K w U °wyL$���gHot( W QOO O °W� Z Wl °O . ,. 00 Lav, U 0 LLO LL t�t//��Oqq(�L fn 181�W� 38Z W W 03V ¢ d O ► w zO m p OarWp w H. l av7 0o q!KN� F ��3ZO� U UO� qJ 0. (W��S� M wyDFQ'�WZ¢&1 aF�WaWCw w �ZW 6K G O0 �W0 O U .UU z 0. L z co - U UUUUy =�sw �pxi — w3sY 00-� uQ �SSOUjwwLLi220 a o i0 zLL0000aa¢aziao UQ UrcK 6¢UF repo=wwUD� rc�� a mmo��ss wwww a o00000 vE oqy oao4o44044494 X Monterey Avenue (South of 35t" Avenue to "A" Street): • Additional Right of Way dedication on east side • East side Street Improvements include: o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvements include 0 18-inch water main • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation Gerald Ford Drive (East of Gateway Drive to Portola Avenue): • Additional Right of Way dedication on north side (East of Dolce Development) • North side Street Improvement o Lane widening o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Median turn pocket to Gateway Drive o Median turn pocket to The Gallery Development o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main 0 • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue • Traffic Signal at Gerald Ford Drive and Gateway Drive Portola Avenue (North of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Street Median and landscaping o Meandering Sidewalk 0 Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 10-inch sewer main North of Dinah Shore to 1-10 • Storm Drain Improvements o Extension of existing 42-inch storm drain pipe from Gerald Ford to Dinah Shore o Install 96-inch storm drain pipe north from Dinah Shore to the Retention basin • Power Pole relocation • SCE Easement relocation • Traffic Signal at Portola Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Gateway Drive (North of Gerald Ford Drive to 35th Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication (North of "A" Street) • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping 0 Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main North of "A" street to 35th Avenue Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe north of "A" street to 35th Avenue. Traffic Signal at Gateway Drive and 351h Avenue 35th Avenue (West of Monterey Avenue to Dinah Shore Drive): • Full Right of Way dedication (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) • Full Street Improvements (from Gateway to Dinah Shore, South half West of Gateway drive to Monterey ) o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 54-inch thru 66-inch storm drain pipe East of Gateway Drive to Dinah Shore • Traffic Signal at 35th Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive Dinah Shore Drive (south of 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Street median and landscaping o Signing and Striping o Meandering Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement o 18-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 10-inch sewer main from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 84-inch thru 96-inch storm drain pipe from 35th Avenue to Portola Avenue "A" Street (West of Monterey Avenue to Gateway Drive): • North Right of Way dedication • North Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping o Sidewalk o Street Lights (at intersections) • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive • Storm Drain Improvements 0 Install 30-inch storm drain pipe from Lowes east property line to Gateway Drive "B" Street (Dolce Avenue) (West of Gateway Drive to "C" Street): • Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement o 12-inch water main "C" Street (South of 351h Avenue to "B" Street): • Full Right of Way dedication • Full Street Improvements o Curb and Gutter o Signing and Striping • Water Improvement 0 12-inch water main • Sewer Improvement o 8-inch sewer main from "B" Street to 35�h Avenue • Storm Drain Improvements o Install 36-inch storm drain pipe "I-10" Crossing (Sewer main upgrade of from 12-inch VCP to 18-inch Stainless Steel): • Sewer Improvement o Replace existing 12-inch VCP sewer main with 18-inch Stainless Steel pipe Retention Basin • Acquisition of Retention Basin • Retention Basin Modification o Reshape retention basin o Add slope protection o Construct pipe outlet structure INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 GENERAL COMMENTS The public improvements identified in the project description attached hereto as Exhibit A, along with the future commercial and residential projects that will be served by those improvements, were substantially identified and discussed in the General Plan and Environmental Impact Report (SCH #2003051103). Many of the mitigation measures identified in the General Plan Final EIR, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety, will be applicable to the Project and future associated developments. The General Plan mitigation measures are identified in the attached Exhibit B, and are incorporated herein by reference, to the extent that each applies to this Project. 1. 2. AESTHETICS The project site elevation falls southwest to northwest by approximately 80 feet. The combination of grading design, landscaping and low profile architecture for future development will preserve views of the regions scenic mountains from surrounding properties. The Project will involve installation of street lighting and incidental lighting associated with future residential and commercial development. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AES-1. The lighting funded and constructed by this Project shall comply with the City's Municipal Code Chapter 24.16 regulations regarding lighting levels and horizontal and vertical light trespass. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES The Project site does not contain any agricultural resources, therefore no significant impacts will occur. 3. AIR QUALITY The undeveloped site is currently covered by large sand dunes which, in conjunction with other such landforms located in the general area, are the primary source of blow sand contributing to periodic violations of PM10 standards in the area. Construction activities associated with installation of the improvements to be funded and constructed through the Project have the potential to increase the amount of blow sand and PM10. The INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 strict compliance with the City's Fugitive Dust Ordinance Chapter 24.12 and the 2002 Coachella Valley State Implementation Plan prepared by AQMD during construction and the ultimate stabilization of the sand dunes resulting from future development will reduce potential impacts on the site and areas downwind. Further, upon completion of the future developments planned for the area, increases in landscaped and otherwise covered ground will reduce the amount of blow sand generated by winds over the site. The potential impact of construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project can be mitigated to a less than significant level by adherence to the following mitigation. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure AQ-1. During stabilization of the sand dunes and construction activity, all contractors shall comply with the City's Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance, set forth in Chapter 24.12 of the Municipal Code and the 2002 Coachella State Implementation Plan prepared by the Air Quality Management District. 4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES The project site is within the development fee area designated by the Coachella Valley Fringe -Toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan and HCP designed to protect critical sand dune habitat for the Fringe -Toed Lizard and associated dune flora and fauna. The General Plan EIR acknowledges that, in 1985, ten Coachella Valley cities, including the City of Palm Desert, adopted the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan (HCP), which established a preserve for the species of approximately 18,038 acres. (General Plan EIR at p. 111, 105-106.) Further, the biological study completed for the General Plan concludes that "[s]and sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan do not need surveys to detect the presence of the fringe -toed lizard." And that "payment of the mitigation fee of $600/acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan." (Palm Desert General Plan Update Biological Report, Lawrence F. Lapre, PhD, June 29, 2001, at p. 23.) MITIGATION Mitigation Measure BIO-1. The $600.00 per acre mitigation fee required by the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan shall be paid before lands to which the fee applies are disturbed. 2 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 5. CULTURAL RESOURCES The project site is located on a large, dry sand dune ridge, and the site contains no evidence of cultural resources. Based on the Palm Desert General Plan EIR cultural resources survey, the area is not within areas designated as "high sensitivity for prehistoric or archaeological resources" or "relatively high sensitivity for historic structures or archaeological resources from pre-1940 era." (See General Plan Draft EIR, Exhibit III- 14.) Therefore, no significant impacts in this regard are expected. 6. GEOLOGY AND SOILS The project site is four miles from the San Andreas fault, therefore, like all other property in the region, it is subject to the potential for ground shaking. The General Plan EIR identifies the site as low risk for liquefaction. (See General Plan EIR, Exhibit III-10.) Compliance with mitigation measures set for in the General Plan will mitigate any impacts to less than significant levels. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure GEO-1. The proposed Project and future development will comply with the City's grading and building codes and implement the following mitigation measures listed in the General Plan EIR as applicable to the Project or components thereof: A. The City shall establish and maintain an information database containing maps and other information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazards occurring within the City boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area. B. Proper structural engineering, which takes into account the forces that will be applied to structures by anticipated ground motions, shall provide mitigation for ground shaking hazards. Seismic design shall be in accordance with the most recently adopted editions of the Uniform Building Code and/or International Building Code, and the seismic design parameters of the Structural Engineers' Association of California. C. Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment on the valley floor shall include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address settlement, liquefaction, and collapsible soils. These hazards can generally be mitigated by proper excavation, compaction and foundation design. 3 INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading and building codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control devices, overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional groundwater conservation measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from groundwater overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in conformance with the latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at the time construction occurs. Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate watering of soils prior to and during grading, and limiting the area of dry, exposed soils during grading (see also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rock falls and/or slope failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards. H-1. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H-2. During site grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site. Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 feet or more below the existing site grade. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soils engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, organic material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescribed by the soils engineer and watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisture content. E INITIAL STUDY ENVIRONMENTAL CHECKLIST DISCUSSION SECTION 29 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2004-02 J. Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to not less than 90% of the laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557-78. The project soils engineer shall observe the placement of fill and take sufficient tests to verify the moisture content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. In -place soil density should be determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method D-1556-64 (74), or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and Safety Department. K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary cuts for retaining walls or utility installations in excess of 5 feet may result in gross failure of the cut and may possibly damage equipment and injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected during grading to provide additional recommendations for safe construction. L. Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 (horizontal to vertical). Fill slope surfaces shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum density by either over -filling and cutting back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical methods. M. Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are recommended for the support of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structures must be evaluated based on structure design and on -site soil conditions. N. Positive site drainage shall be established during finish grading. Finish lot grading shall include a minimum positive gradient of 2% away from structures for a minimum distance of three (3) feet and a minimum gradient of 1 % to the street or other approved drainage course. O. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This 5 backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. 8. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS The Project site is vacant land, and there is no evidence to suggest that hazardous materials are or have been present on the site. Further, the types of uses contemplated for the site, and specifically the improvements to be undertaken by the Project, do not have the potential to have any significant impacts in this regard. 9. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY The Project will result in, and enable, creation of impervious surfaces and which would reduce the amount of percolation and change the site's drainage conditions. The Project envisions the construction of a number of drainage improvements so that the drainage needs of future development of the site are met. The Project contemplates construction of drainage facilities and retention basins that will accommodate a 100-year storm. Because the Project involves these drainage improvements that will accommodate future service needs, no significant impact will result, and there is no need for further mitigation. 10. LAND USE PLANNING The Project's improvements, as well as the future residential/commercial uses which they will serve, are consistent with the goals and policies of the General Plan, and will assist in the General Plan's implementation. 11. MINERAL RESOURCES There are no known mineral resources in the vicinity of the Project, therefore no significant impact is expected to occur. 0 NJ RI I ; I, 12. NOISE The improvements contemplated by the Project are generally not noise producing, and therefore, no significant impacts are expected in that respect. Construction activities associated with the improvements will generate noise, but due to the general lack of sensitive receptors in the area, and the fact that construction noise will be temporary, the impacts will not be significant. The project will be subject to City ordinances controlling construction hours. 13. POPULATION AND HOUSING The Project improvements are designed to serve a mix of residential and commercial uses which will help balance employment and housing demands in the University Park area. Further, the improvements will enable growth and development consistent with the General Plan for the area. Therefore, the growth accommodated by the improvements has already been accounted for in regional models that rely on the City's General Plan, and no impacts beyond those already considered by the General Plan EIR will occur. 14. PUBLIC SERVICES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on public services, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the current system of mitigation fees, including fire facility, school, park, child care, transportation, drainage, etc., in addition to general fund and Redevelopment Agency revenues, are adequate to maintain the current level of public services without significant environmental impacts. 15. RECREATION Future residential development that will be served by the Project improvements will increase public recreation demand. However, the improvements include a number of recreational facilities that will serve these future residents as well as customers and employees at the commercial and other non-residential land uses. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure REC-1. Construction of a 10-acre neighborhood park developed in conjunction with a Palm Springs Unified School District elementary/middle school meets the General Plan goal of five acres per rA 1,000 projected population and will address potential impacts of the future development enabled through the Project Improvements. 16. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Commercial and residential development facilitated by the project will generate significant new vehicle trips onto the regional system, however many of the improvements contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the future development. The Project includes the completion of all necessary long-term General Plan Circulation Element street improvements to insure that traffic is distributed in a safe and efficient manner with Level of Service D or better as specified in the General Plan EIR. Further, the future development has the potential to impact regional transportation systems. However, those impacts will be mitigated to less than significant impacts through payment of the Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF). During construction of the improvements contemplated by the Project, there is the potential for short term impacts to transportation and traffic due to street closure needs, including the potential for detours. This short term impact will be mitigated to less than significance through preparation of street closure and traffic plans which shall be reviewed and approved by the City's Public Works Department prior to commencement of any activities within a public right-of-way. Project will include installation of a sewer line under Interstate 10. The construction process will ensure the structural integrity of the roadway and not impact traffic flow. MITIGATION Mitigation Measure TRANS-1. Future development shall pay Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF) as required by that program to mitigate project impacts throughout the region. Mitigation Measure TRANS-2. Prior to commencement of any improvement project within a public right-of-way, a traffic control and safety plan shall be prepared and submitted to the City's Public Works Department (or California Department of Transportation, if applicable) for review and approval. The traffic control and safety plan shall strive to enable efficient circulation in the vicinity of the Project to the extent possible. 17. UTILITIES The future development served by the project will incrementally increase demand on some utility services, however many of the improvements i i • contemplated by the Project are being undertaken to ensure that adequate service levels will exist for the development. Further, the applicants for future development will pay the necessary connection and service fees which will offset demand impacts. 18. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE a) The improvement Project has the potential to degrade habitat for the Fringe -toed lizard, however, through mitigation fees that fund and establishment and maintenance of a permanent preserve through and approved Habitat Conservation Plan, the does not rise to the level of significance. Further, the improvements associated with the Project do not have the potential to substantially degrade the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species or cause such species to drop below self-sustaining levels. For the reasons stated above there is no evidence in support of finding this significance threshold met for this Project. b) The Project will assist in implementation of the City's long-term General Plan for the area, therefore the Project does not achieve short- term goals to the detriment of long term goals. c) The improvements proposed by the Project, when considered in conjunction with the future planned development, will not have a cumulatively significant effect. The Project and future developments are consistent with the General Plan which contemplates this growth. Therefore, the impacts of the Project have already been contemplated by the City's General Plan, as well as the regional plans which rely on the projections of the General Plan, such as transportation plans and air quality plans. Cumulative impacts of this Project together with other projects, will not be cumulatively significant. �9 Land Use COmpatibil.ityLitigation Measures TNICity of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts a Draft General On MeasuresPlan m Summary of Impacts Impacts to the City of Palm Desert and adjacent land uses associated with the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan are not anticipated to be significant. The proposed land use plan incorporates a mix of land uses thoughtfully developed to be compatible with one another and with the surrounding environment. Spatial organization of the lands within the General Plan study area involved logical transition of adjoining residential densities from areas of lower to higher densities. The proposed land use plan recognizes the need to insulate sensitive land uses (residences, schools, etc. from areas of transportation noise by establishing a buffer of less sensitive uses, such as the business park buffer between residential areas and the Interstate- 10/Union Pacific corridor. High -density residential areas occur in close proximity to commercial developments and major roads for convenient transportation access. The University Park planning area provides complimentary land uses located close to commercial and business park development that can provide convenient shopping and employment opportunities, but buffer local residents from noise and traffic associated with nearby arterial roads and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Plan is also responsive to the need to preserve the Santa Rosa Mountains and other conservation areas as undeveloped open spaces. In general, the proposed General Plan will increase the number of housing units in the City, b providing additional lands for high and medium residential density development. The housing increase is expected to be primarily generated in the University Park planning area. The proposed General Plan also demonstrates increases in industrial, open space, and public/quasi-public acreages and shows reduction in commercial acreages. a the proposed General Plan constitutes a considerable increase in the number of housing structures in t Planning area. Additional homes will result from conversion of Open Space -Rural 1 du/4 he ( 0 acre), under the existing General Plan, to Desert Estates (1 du/10 acre) in the proposed General Plan. residential increases will result from proposed lands for medium to high density development, rimer located north of the I-10 freeway. The proposed General Plan also results in the decrease of cop primarily industrial and open space acreages. However, it will slightly increase public/quasi-public acreages. commercial, 3• Mitigation Measures No significant land use incompatibilities are anticipated to result from the adoption and implementation of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan, and mitigation measures are not necessaryto ad area of concern. The General Plan incorporates a wide range of Policies p ntation dress this of which will address land use compatibility issues as they arise. However,i programs, to lamentation Potential changes in land use are adequately measures shall that y assessed, the following Mitigation implemented. Il be A. Individual proposed projects, especially those involving a mix of residential a nd Other well as those located nearby or adjacent to sensitive lands or uses, shall be fully evaluated uses, as duringesse the project review process to assure that all land use compatibility issues are addressed d and III-17 Land Use CompatPlf)il tT-,Traffic/Circulation TN/City of Palm Desera, Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. The City shall require a noise impact assessment and mitigation plan which minimizes impacts to outdoor living space and assures a maximum interior noise level of 45 CNEL, from all future residential development occurring on lands within an existing 65 dBA or higher noise contour. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall identify potential adverse of unacceptable noise exposures, evaluate and assure the effectiveness of proposed mitigation programs, and assure construction is in accordance with approved noise mitigation plans. Said plan shall be approved by the Community Development Department as part of its review, and the effectiveness of the proposed mitigation program shall be demonstrated as part of the Building Department's inspection process. Results shall be recorded and maintained with building inspection records. Responsible Parties: City Community Development and Building Departments B. Traf ic/Circulation Introduction In conjunction with the preparation of the Draft General Plan, a region -based, City/study area -focused traffic study was also prepared? A wide variety of data were assembled to measure existing traffic conditions on the various roadways studied. A focused version of the CVATS Traffic Model was used to analyse existing conditions and to project future conditions for the Preferred Alternative General Plan, as well as for the current General Plan and two other alternative plans. The following discussion provides some essential background information to facilitate a better understanding of the analysis, which follows. Levels of Service The capacity of a segment of roadway or an intersection is typically characterized as "Level- of - Service". As gauged for mid -block travel, Level -of -Service (LOS) is a qualitative measure describing the character and efficiency of the flow of traffic. For intersections, the LOS is defined quantitatively, as the number of seconds the vehicle is delayed in passing through the intersection. LOS includes a range of alphabetical connotations "A" through "F', used to characterize roadway operating conditions. LOS A represents the best/free-flow conditions and LOS F indicates the worst/system failure. Intersections represent the most constrained portion of the roadway network. The Highway Capacity Manual expresses the Level of Service at an intersection in terms of delay or waiting time to get through the various intersection approaches. For signalized intersections, average total delay per vehicle is used to determine the LOS. Intersection LOS is defined quantitatively in Table III-7 below. A more detailed discussion of LOS values can be found in the General Plan Traffic Study in the EIR Technical Appendices. Mid -block Levels of Service are represented as volume to capacity ratios, or vehicle demand divided by roadway capacity. In general terms, as the ratio approaches 1.00 or maximum capacity, the roadway approaches LOS F. However, it is important to keep in mind that for mid -block, the LOS is meant to Z Palm Desert General Plan Update Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5, 2003. III-18 Land Use CompatibilitygTraffic/Circulation Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III ® Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures All -Weather Access Major drainages that affect roadway access both within the City and the planning area include the Whitewater River, Palm Valley Stonnwater Channel, Deep Canyon Stormwater Channel, San Pascual Channel, Mid -Valley Stormwater Channel, Thousand Palms Flood Control Project and Thousand Palms Canyon Wash, cove neighborhoods and in areas north of Highway 111. Whitewater River: The Whitewater River is the principal drainage affecting all-weather access in the City, with currently all-weather crossings existing at only Monterey Avenue. Crossings of the Whitewater River at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are currently improved to pass through lower (less than 100-year) storm flows. The Whitewater River Crossing at Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is also all-weather. In addition, all-weather access is also available across the Whitewater River at Washington Street and Miles Avenue, in La Quinta and Indian Wells, respectively. The City of Palm Desert has plans to design and build all-weather crossing across the Whitewater River at both Portola Avenue and Cook Street as funding becomes available. Based upon the availability of existing all- weather crossings along the Whitewater River, improvements at Portola Avenue and Cook Street are warranted. Mid -Valley Stornwater Channel: In the planning area, this drainage facility is designed to run along the south side of the Union Pacific Railroad right-of-way. Existing and planned improvements will convey flows under elevated roadways/approaches to I-10 interchanges. No significant access issues are associated with this drainage facility either now or in the future. Thousand Palms: The community of Thousand Palms and the area generally north of I-10 is subject to both sheetflow and channelized flooding from drainage originating in the Indio Hills. The Thousand Palms Canyon Wash conveys flows, which originate north of the Indio Hills and along the south -facing slopes of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. The US Army Corps of Engineers and the Coachella Valley Water District recently completed design analysis and project approvals for an area -wide flood control project, which will protect the vast majority of homes and businesses in the community of Thousand Palms from upstream flooding. 3. Mitigation Measures As discussed above, intersections constitute the most constrained portion of the roadway network in the City and balance of the planning area. The following table provides a detailed analysis of the improvements (mitigation measures), both those already programmed and new/additional improvements that are needed to provide acceptable levels of service. It should be noted that although improvements are cited that will bring some intersections to LOS C, these improvements are not needed in most instances in order to achieve acceptable levels of service. III-46 wau4w u u wQul ul u T u Q u wcQuu I ul Quul ul ul cal u u u u u u a, "0 kn M 'f CCNI M00 26 � ry `n 0% c �O 1, [, M U M r1 M M N c*1 d M 4 N N cn M �p M ch Q N M N �y 00 00 N N It 00 �t O �p M N Vy yy M M N M M N M N tYi •-, N A O n p F 0 0 0 0 n • F M N N M M M p N M M M en O N N N O A p .r N N N CIO CD C,4 ---- p F o M M M M M Cl) M H �� v? 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N N N N N N N N O N -r C4 W 44 Cd {d E 4 y FFFFE.FFFE,FF � O p cad d0 '1i y y y Qj C C y y h cu C"3 to N 1;..2 3g O Ou as cUC., a a.d aocot U cn 4C�ua 3u�3 3 c'o �~��.� ., �S �Sh 2oova x >3a33v3w33"� �Q N a c 3be `~ o U � > A �a� Q v O y 48. ° o I 1 01 Ll: Laud Use Compatibility-Tra fic/Circulati.on Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert A Section III -Existing Conditions, Tmpacis anteaft d General Plan es ion Measures Mitigation via Roadway/intersection Improvements As set forth in the Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan, the City shall make a good faith effort to assure that intersections operate at LOS D or better. The improvements set forth in Table III-15, above, are mitigation measures designed to reduce Post 2020 (buildout) traffic impacts to levels of insignificance (LOS D). The improvements include the provision of new or additional turn lanes and through lanes, and in a few instances limitations on pedestrian green -time or access on certain legs of intersections. None of the prescribed limitations on pedestrian access are a significant impediment to pedestrian use and are located at intersections with the highest volumes and widest cross sections. On -Going Monitoring and Analysis The programmatic level of the General Plan study suggests that on -going and project -specific traffic monitoring is required to assure adequate levels of service in the long-term. The City shall periodically monitor conditions along roadway segments where General Plan level analysis indicates high levels traffic congestion. In these areas of the roadway network intersection and progression analysisshall also be conducted to advance infrastructure planning to address areas of existing and anticipated traffic congestion. Mitigation via Alternative Modes of Transportation With the limited exception of the consideration of busing of students to schools, the traffic impact analysis conducted for the General Plan update does not consider the effects of the use of mass transit, biking or pedestrian -accessible land use planning on traffic volumes or roadway operations. As noted in the General Plan Traffic Study: "While the model is not intended to reflect vehicle trip reduction characteristics associated with the benefits of such a system combined with the proper mix of land uses, an especially well developed non -motorized transportation system could potentially reduce vehicle traffic substantially.i' The General Plan Traffic Study also cites the continuing imbalance between the production and attraction of trips in the University Park planning area, caused by an abundance of commercial, es of home -based production institutional and industrial trip attractors and the limited number of sourc (residences). The study cites the unquntifiable but substntial potential for vehicle trip reduction from the compact mix of land uses, which promotes the use of buses, bike paths and pedestrian access. Bu c e� As set forth in the general Plan Circulation Element, the City shall continue to coordinate and cooperate with the Sunline Transit Authority to expand and optimize the use of bus transit through the expansion of bus routes, the construction of user-friendly bus stops and shelters, and through joint ventures between Sunline and major potential users, including the colleges, retail and employment centers. City of Palm Desert General Plan Traffic Study. Prepared by Urban Crossroads, Inc. September 5, 2003. III-51 Land Lice CO -spa rab:I. I �a VY-A fftff-a c/C' Y_�at�O M�.tagat�on -Measures iatle °gty o I'alnq � r�sP� a. Draft General Piaui EIR x` Section III -- Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Golf Cart and Bike Paths The City golf cart path network is also a potentially significant alternative mode of transportation. The City shall continue to enhance the accessibility to and use of the golf cart and bicycle path network to the greatest extent practicable. Mitigation via Implementation of General Plan Policies and Programs The Circulation Element of the Draft Comprehensive General Plan includes fourteen (14) policies and twenty-nine (29). programs, which are designed to enhance the operation and efficiency of all aspects of r the transportation system serving the planning area. Policies and programs address the on -going monitoring and management of traffic volumes and operating conditions, and the timing of required improvements to maintain acceptable levels of service. Summary of Mitigation The Draft General Plan, this EIR and the general Plan Traffic Study provide both programmatic and concrete/prescriptive actions and measures that are expected to reduce transportation impacts associated with the implementation of the proposed General Plan below levels of significance. In conjunction with the existing various regional transportation initiatives coordinated through the City and CVAG, the performance of transportation systems serving the City and planning area can be further enhanced. The continued thoughtful integration of land uses will also increase opportunities for mass transit and non - motorized means of transportation. Controlling access onto major arterial roadways will also serve to preserve capacity and limit the costs associated with expanded roadway infrastructure. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall review and update the master plan of roads, including standards for ultimate rights -of -way and pavement width, and provide a schedule for securing right-of-way and constructing improvements consistent with the.projected needs and standards set forth in the Circulation Element and Program EIR. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, Public Works Department B. The Cityshall establish and maintain ongoing consultation and coordination with adjoining g g J g planning and engineering staffs of adjoining cities and transportation planning agencies to study and 'implement effective means of preserving and improving capacity along major roadways. Coordination efforts may include synchronized signalization, consolidation of access drives and restriction of access, construction of additional travel and turning lanes, raised median islands, and improvements to critical intersections. , Responsible Parties: Public Works Department, Community Development Department, Adjoining Cities, CVAG, Riverside County, CalTrans ' C. The City shall periodically evaluate the operating conditions at each of the Interstate-10 interchanges serving the City, including Monterey Avenue, Cook Street, future Portola Avenue and Washington Street, and shall make recommendations to responsible agencies regarding needed improvements. Responsible Parties: Public Works Department, Community development Department, CalTrans, Riverside County, CVAG III-52 Land Use Compatibility—Traffic/Circulation Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures D. The City shall pro -actively consult and coordinate with CVAG, SCAG and CalTrans and represent the City in transportation planning meetings to assure that City policies, programs and strategies are given full consideration in resolving regional transportation issues affecting the community. Responsible Agency: City Council, Community Development Department, Public Works Department, CVAG, SCAG, CalTrans E. The City shall continue to pro -actively promote the mass transit system expansion and innovation through ongoing consultation and coordination with the SunLine Transit Agency and CVAG. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency, CVAG F. The City shall continue to consult and coordinate with the SunLine Transit Agency and encourage the development of rideshare and other alternative, high occupancy transit programs for employers with sufficient numbers of employees, and for individuals seeking to locate potential rideshare partners. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department, SunLine Transit Agency G. The City monitor the effectiveness of land use planning proposals that integrate the assemblage of land uses, optimizes nearby interactions, reduces the need for travel outside the neighborhood, and shortens trips to work, shopping, public services and public park facilities. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Redevelopment Agency, Chamber of Commerce H. The City monitor the effectiveness of its master plan of bicycle -ways and multi -use trails, including secure bicycle and golf cart storage facilities, and other support facilities which increase bicycle and golf cart use. Responsible Parties: Community Development Departments, Public Works Department 1• The City shall monitor the planning and development of all-weather crossings as part of the community's Master Drainage Plan and its implementation. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Water District J• The City shall periodically review roadway design specifications, design standards and guidelines for public and private streets, and their effectiveness at meeting existing and anticipated demand, reducing traffic speeds in neighborhoods, and facilitating safe and efficient use of bicycles and other alternative modes of transportation. Responsible Parties: Community development department, Public Works Department, Planning Commission, City Council III-53 0 Soils and Geology —Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert .Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts MR The buildout of the General Plan will increase the potential for a number of geologic and seismic hazards within the General Plan study area. The construction of all types of structures in varying terrain 14 could expose persons and property to hazards relating to subsidence, slope instability and rock fall, and seismic hazards. Soils The General Plan study area includes lands adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains, the Indio Hills and the Little San Bernardino Mountains, where slope failure and rock fall could occur. Limited development potential exists for the southern portion of the City, which is generally designated for Open Space land uses. In the northern portion of the planning area, residential development could occur in close proximity to slopes. Development in these areas should include the preparation of site specific analysis to assess the potential impacts of rock fall and slope stability prior to construction of structures for projects which might be down -gradient from such hazard areas, as shown in Exhibit III-12. Alluvial fan deposits and blowing sand deposits throughout the General Plan study area are vulnerable to collapse and/or hydrocompaction. When saturated, these soils could lose cementation and cause damage to structures and foundations that are built upon them. In areas proposed for development, site - specific studies must be conducted to evaluate the collapse potential. Subsidence in the Coachella Valley is closely associated with groundwater overdraft. Structures sensitive to slight changes in elevation, such as canals, sewers and drainage improvements are generally sensitive to the effects of subsidence and may be damaged if subsidence occurs. Mitigation of subsidence and its potential impacts will require a regional approach to groundwater conservation and recharge. The northern portion of the planning area is highly susceptible to wind erosion. Increased development and surface disruption resulting from grading and construction loosens soils and increases the amount of dust and other small particles in the air. However, in the long-term, the installation of landscaping associated with new development will contribute to the stabilization of drifting sand. The City currently requires the preparation of erosion control plans as part of the grading permit process, providing site - specific mitigation for this hazard with each development. Project -specific erosion control measures must continue to be implemented to protect on -site soils. The potentially adverse health im acts associated with suspended dust and blowsand are further discussed in Section III-H, Air Quality. p Seismicity Two Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones occur within the General Plan study area. In addition, the area will be subject to significant ground acceleration and potential damage from significant earthquakes Within the next 50 years. Earthquakes can trigger slope instability, liquefaction, settlement and flood inundation, and can cause a variety of localized, but no less destructive hazards such as urban fires, dam failures, and toxic chemical releases. Smaller structures could be shifted from their foundations and cause gas leeks and fires. III-69 Soils and GeOlO Y TN/City of Palm Desert Dfaft General Dian EII Section III — Existing conditions, impacts and Mitigation Measures The greatest hazard with smaller structures is that of unreinforced masonry buildings. The City has identified and caused to be retrofitted four such structures. The City Department of Building and Safety adopted the 1997 Uniform Building Code (UBC). New development in the City will be subject to this, or later versions of the UBC and/or International Building Code, and should be able to resist major earthquakes without collapsing, although structural damage could occur. Liquefaction Liquefaction hazards in the City and planning areas are considered generally low, except in the northern portion of the planning area, in a small area between the Indio Hills and the Little San Bernardino Mountains. This area could develop with limited residential development with buildout of the General Plan. The City should require site specific liquefaction studies as development is proposed in these areas. The analysis will include mitigation measures should liquefaction be considered likely on these properties. ' 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall establish and maintain an information database containing maps and other information which describe seismic and other geotechnical hazards occurring within the City boundaries, sphere -of -influence and planning area. I B. Proper structural engineering, which takes into account the forces that will be applied to structures by anticipated ground motions, shall provide mitigation for ground shaking hazards. I Seismic design shall be in accordance with the most recently adopted editions of the Uniform Building Code and/or International Building Code, and the seismic design parameters of the Structural Engineers' Association of California. C. Proposals for development on wind or stream -deposited sediment on the valley floor shall include site -specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address settlement, liquefaction, and collapsible soils. These hazards can generally be mitigated by proper excavation, compaction and foundation design. D. The City shall continue to require expansive soils testing as part of its grading and building codes, and shall assure the implementation of mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, such as the use of reinforcing steel in foundations, drainage control devices, overexcavation and backfilling with non -expansive soils. E. The City shall continue to support and encourage local and regional groundwater conservation measures in an effort to mitigate potential subsidence resulting from groundwater overdraft (see also Water Resources discussion in Section III-F). F. All grading permit requests shall include a PM10 Management Plan in conformance with the latest approved Coachella Valley PM10 requirements in place at the time construction occurs. Blowing dust and sand during grading operations shall be mitigated by adequate watering of soils prior to and during grading, and limiting the area of dry, exposed soils during grading (see also Air Quality discussion in Section III-H). III-70 Soils and Geology Mitigation Measures 'ITT/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan E Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measureess G. Where development is proposed adjacent to or in close proximity to steep slopes, site -specific geotechnical studies shall be conducted to evaluate the potential for rock falls pe failure, and to establish mitigation measures which minimize these hazards, and/or slope yH. All development proposed within Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zones shall comply with State requirements for site -specific study, including trenching to locate fault traces, and to submit this analysis prior to any development approval for the property. H. Dunn site g grading, all existing vegetation and debris shall be removed from areas that are to receive compacted fill. Any trees to be removed shall have a minimum of 95% of the root systems extracted. Man-made objects shall be overexcavated and exported from the site Removal of unsuitable materials may require excavation to depths ranging from 2 to 4 fee more below the existing site grade. t or I. All fill soil, whether on site or imported, shall be approved by the individual project soil engineer prior to placement as compaction fill. All fill soil shall be free from vegetation, or anti s material, cobbles and boulders greater than 6 inches in diameter, and other debris. Approved soil shall be placed in horizontal lifts of appropriate thickness as prescri watered or aerated as necessary to obtain near -optimum moisturebed by the soils engineer and content. g J• Fill materials shall be completely and uniformly compacted to not less than 90 f the laboratory maximum density as determined by ASTM test method D-1557-78. The project soils engineer shall observe the placement of fill and take sufficient tests to verify the moisture content, uniformity, and degree of compaction obtained. In -place soil density shout determined by the sand -cone method, in accordance with ASTM Test Method D- d be 1556-64 (74), or equivalent test method acceptable to the City Building and Safety Department. K. Finish cut slopes generally shall not be inclined steeper than 2: Attempts to excavate near -vertical temporary cuts for retaining walls or utility tinstallati l to tns in excess of 5 feet may result in gross failure of the cut and may installations in injure workers. All cut slopes must be inspected duringy possibly damage equipment and recommendations for safe construction. grading to provide additional L• Finish fill slopes shall not be inclined steeper than 2:1 vertical). Fill shall be compacted to 90% of the laboratory maximum enstytal byteither over fillinloae surfaces f back to expose a compacted core or by approved mechanical methods. g nd cutting M- Foundation systems that utilize continuous and spread footings are recommended of one and two-story structures. Foundations for higher structures must e evaluated r the support structure design and on -site soil conditions. based on N. Positive site drainage shall be established Ishall include a during finish ' minimum positive rng grading. Finish lot rad' g adient of 2% away from structures for a minimum disgtance of three (3) feet and a minimum gradient of 1% to the street or other approved drainage course. Soils and Geology Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert aft General Plan EIR - Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts andMitigation Measures O. An adequate subdrain system shall be constructed behind and at the base of all retaining walls to allow for adequate drainage and to prevent excessive hydrostatic pressure. P. Utility trench excavations in slope areas or within the zone of influence of structures should be properly backfilled in accordance with the following recommendations: a) Pipes shall be bedded with a minimum of 6 inches of pea gravel or approved granular soil. Similar material shall be used to provide a cover of at least 1 foot over the pipe. This backfill shall then be uniformly compacted by mechanical means or jetted to a firm and unyielding condition. b) Remaining backfill may be fine-grained soil. It shall be placed in lifts not exceeding 6 inches in thickness or as determined appropriate, watered or aerated to near optimum moisture content, and mechanically compacted to a minimum of 90% of the laboratory maximum density. c) Pipes in trenches within 5 feet of the top of slopes or on the face of slopes shall be bedded and backfilled with pea gravel or approved granular soils as described above. The remainder of the trench backfill shall comprise typical on -site fill soil mechanically compacted as described in the previous paragraph. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting , A. During any project site preparation, the City Engineer and Building Department staff shall conduct site inspections to ensure compliance with applicable City ordinances and conditions of approval, as well as any additional erosion control mitigation measures specified in this document. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, Building Department, developer, grading contractor. B. Subsequent to preparation of final development plans and specifications, but prior to grading and construction, the foundation plans should be reviewed by the City Engineer to verify compatibility with site geotechnical conditions and conformance with recommendations contained herein. The need for additional subsurface exploration will be determined on a project by project basis. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. C. When appropriate, rough grading of a project site shall be performed under geological and engineering observation of the geological consultant and/or the City Engineer. Rough grading includes, but is not limited to, grading of everexcavation cuts, fill placement, and excavation of temporary and permanent cut slopes. Responsible Parties: City Engineer, geotechnical consultant. D. As determined appropriate by the City Engineer and consulting geologist, the geotechnical consultant and/or the City Engineer shall perform the following observations during site grading and construction of foundations to verify or modify, if necessary, conclusions and recommendations in the project's geotechnical report: III-72 Hydrology TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts andDraft General Plan EIR Measures I. Observation of all grading operations. 2. Geologic observation of all cut slopes. I Observation of all key cuts and fill benching. 4. Observation of all retaining wail back cuts, during and followin com 1 5. Observation of all surface and subsurface drainage systems. g P etion or excavation. 6. Observation of backfill wedges and subdrains for retaining walls. 7. Observation of pre -moistening of subgrade soils and placement of sand cus hion and vapor barrier beneath the slab. 8. Observation of all foundation excavations for the structure or retaining walls prior to placing forms and reinforcing steel. 9. Observation of compaction of all utility trench backfill. Responsible Parties: City Engineer and/or geotechnical consu ltant. D. Hydrology 1. Existing Conditions Hydrology is significantly influenced by the geography and climate of a Particular Valley and the City of Palm Desert occur in a low desert basin, flanked b to isolate the region from moist and cool maritime air massesP r locale. The Coachella subtropical desert climate. The desert floor receives a veryy cal mountain ranges that coming on shore to the west, creating a inches per year. In some years, no measurable rainfall has been reported. Ingeneral, low mean annual rainfall, ranging from 4 to 6 during the winter months, between December and March. The surroundinmount precipitation occurs receive rainfall that increase with elevation. The mountains and upper elevations o study area are generally cooler, with about a S°F drop in temperatureg mountain slopes generally elevation. Daytime temperatures in the valley reach u to 12 ° f the General Plan with every 1,000-foot increase in and winter temperatures rarely fall below freezing. p 5 F occasionally during the summer miner season Although the Coachella Valley has a low mean average rainfall, the region i generated by occasional high -intensity thunderstorms and tropical storms, occurring late summerg s susceptible to flash floods and early fall. Dry ground surfaces can become saturated by intense and excessive resulting in substantial reduction of percolation rates and increasing Primarily during asphalt and other im rainfall, pervious surfaces associated with development lso contribute Permeable rainwater runoff.covered by Potential landslides, and debris or mudflows can occur in hill or soils are weighed down by d water. Flash flooding in the Coachella Valley is generally limited toareas when aw rated extending from mountain canyons, floodways and floodplains adjacent drainages. Flooding on alluvial fans can be ashes velocities and spread across wide unchanne a Pa areas. G' nt to rivers and low-lying Particularly damaging because floodwaters move at high fans, the hazard p y g g even that most of the City is situated on alluvial posed b flooding is significant if not mitigated. Flooding can also be an attribute of unusually warm conditions the snow pack on adjacent mountains to melt rapidly. In faoccurring in early spring, which cause Coachella Valley originates from snow melting off the fact, nearly all of the surface water in the Bernardino and Can Jacinto Mountains. The water is usua llslopes of the San Bernardino, Little San y absorbed by porous sands and gravels on III-73 Hydrology Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 2. Project Impacts Potential flooding problems in the City of Palm Desert, its sphere -of influence and planning area are associated with storm flows in the Whitewater River and its tributaries, flooding on the alluvial fans, and to runoff associated with the Indio Hills and the foothills of the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains. Ongoing growth and urbanization in the General Plan study area will result in the creation of additional impervious surfaces such as paved roads, parking lots, and sidewalks which can cause an increase in the amount of runoff generated. Since the bedrock formation of the hills and mountains surrounding and occurring in the General Plan study area have low permeability, heavy runoff from these areas during intense storms may be inevitable. Future development facilitated by the proposed General Plan could also potentially alter and/or disturb existing drainage patterns, which can result in the accumulation of considerable amounts of debris in the event of a major storm. Large developments may incorporate a network of channels which can include golf courses, greenbelts and other open space areas to convey and collect on -site runoff. The proposed General Plan utilizes land use planning as an effective strategy to manage potential flood hazards and protect lives and properties in areas subject to flooding. The adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan will facilitate the regulated development of various land uses and ' roadways, and will put in effect policies, programs and mitigation measures which directly address the flood hazards facing the City. The foremost goal of the proposed General Plan is to protect the general health, safety and welfare of the community from potential flood and associated hazards. Its focus includes the evaluation of the potential for and extent of major future flooding. The City will coordinate with FEMA in the redesignation of the 100-year flood plains within the General Plan study area. The Plan also calls for the protection of groundwater resources from polluted runoff by implementing the NPDES permitting process. The proposed Plan acknowledges and addresses the need for and availability of adequate access and evacuation routes in the event of a major community disaster or threat. While the Iproposed General Plant aims to protect the community for flood hazards, it has also recognized that there are opportunities for the provision of open space and multiple uses, wildlife, pedestrian and equestrian corridors within major drainages. In general, the implementation and adoption of the proposed General Plan is not anticipated to result in substantial adverse hydrological impacts. Through thoughtful planning and coordination land use development intensities are regulated and improvements and construction of new storm water facilities are identified. Moreover, the policies and plans of the proposed General Plan seek to establish and enhance inter -agency planning cooperation, and facilitate the development of effective and cost- effective local and regional drainage facilities. 3. Mitigation Measures The City will continue to review and assess hydrology analyses on a project -by project basis. The findings of these studies will be integrated into the project master drainage plans appro riatel and th City will have the opportunity to require additional on -site flood control facilities as necessary. e III-81 Hydrology Mitigation Measures TNICity of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIIt Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures The proposed General Plan intends to provide a comprehensive assessment of flooding and other hydraulic hazards in the community, and complete facilities and services effectively protecting lives and property. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented to reduce potential impacts associated with flooding and hydrology to less than significant levels: A. The City shall continue to update hydrologic conditions in the General Plan study area, and plan and pro -actively coordinate with other responsible agencies in upgrading the City's local and regional drainage system. B. The City shall implement the recommendations of the 1993 Master Drainage Plan study. Local regulations and guidelines shall be established which are consistent with the Master Plan of Drainage, direct the management of runoff, and provide for local drainage facilities support the effective use of regional drainage facilities. C. The City shall monitor and periodically update the Master Plan of Drainage to reflect changes in local and regional drainage and flood conditions. ' D . The City shall develop, update and maintain Capital Improvement Plans for drainage management based upon the Master Drainage Plan project descriptions. ' E. The City shall place the highest priority for improvements to be implemented through the Master Drainage Plan on the following stormwater facilities: Whitewater River Channel, the Palm Valley Channel, the Deep Canyon Channel, and City of Indian Wells drainages located to the east of the City. F. The City shall evaluate the need for requiringan upgrade from a - ply' 25 year on -site retention to a 100-year on -site retention in crucial locations of the General Plan, as described by the Master Drainage Plan. G. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with responsible regional agencies in achieving multi- use agreements of major drainage facilities, including debris basins and flood control channel and designing safe and attractive recreational facilities, which are consistent with the functional requirements of these facilities. H. The City shall require all new development to incorporate adequate flood mitigation measures, such as grading that prevents adverse drainage impacts to adjacent properties, on -site retention of runoff, and the adequate siting of structures located within flood plains. I. The City will ensure that adequate, safe, all-weather crossings over drainage facilities and flood control channels are provided where necessary, and are maintained for access during major storm events. J. The City shall investigate the possibility of participating P y p pating in the nationwide inventory and evaluation of bridges to address the potential impacts of bridge scour during major flood events. III-82 0 Water Quality/Resources TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Engineer shall regularly, and at least once a year, report to the City Council on ro re made to developing local drainass ge plans and implementing drainage control projects. The status of regional drainage plans and facilities affecting flood control in the City shall also be reported upon. Responsible Agencies: City Engineer, City Council, CVWD B . The City Engineer shall review and approve project -specific hydrology Tans for development P Y gy studies and mitigation P p proposals, and assure their adequacy with regard to stormwater management and pollution control. Responsible Agencies: City Engineer ' E. Water Quality/Resources 1. Existing Conditions Complex tectonic forces have created the unique physiographic form of the Coachella Valley. The region is characterized as a deep trough which has been progressively filled with sands and gravel that have eroded from the surrounding mountains and hills. Over millions of years, this sediment -filled basin has functioned as a repository for rainfall, mountain runoff and occasional inundation from the Colorado River. Although considered as one of the driest regions in the United States, the Coachella Valley is underlain by a large groundwater basin that stores fresh water. This basin is identified by the Department of Water Resources as the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin. The Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin extends from the surface drainage divide at the west end of San Gorgonio Pass to the Salton Sea on the southeast and includes over 690 square miles.10 The Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin is divided into distinct subbasins and subareas. The subbasins are the San Gorgonio Pass, Mission Creek, Whitewater River, and Desert Hot Springs. Subbasin boundaries are generally defined by seismic faults that restrict the lateral movement of groundwater, including the Mission Creek and Banning strands of the San Andreas Fault Zone. It is estimated that between the high ground water elevations that occurred during the 1935-1936 season and a depth of 1,000 feet below the ground surface, the Coachella Valley Ground Water Basin has a capacity for storing about 39,000,000 acre-feet of ground water." Whitewater River Subbasin The Whitewater River subbasin, the largest groundwater repository for the Coachella Valley, underlies the City of Palm Desert and a substantial portion of the valley floor. It is the primary groundwater repository serving the Palm Desert General Plan study area. In general, the Whitewater River subbasin extends from the junction of Interstate-10 and Highway 111, to the Salton Sea approximately 70 miles to the east and encompasses approximately 400 square miles. The subbasin is bounded on the north and 10 "Coachella Valley Investigation, Bulletin 108," Department of Water Resources, July 1964. 11 Ibid. III-83 Water Quality/Resources Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Plan ® iection III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Draft Mitigat onlMeasureess Based on CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the General Plan will result in usage of 312,562 acre feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum buildout of all land uses, and is therefore expected to be conservative. Development of new projects in the General Plan study area will result in gradual increases in water consumption. Implementation and buildout of the proposed General Plan will contribute to the cumulative impacts of urban development on groundwater resources in the Coachella Valley, includin the continued reduction in the amount of potable groundwater in storage. g As CVWD develops and implements the mitigation measures included in their Water Management Plan, a number of conservation methods are likely to be implemented which will reduce the total consumption in the District's service area. The Management Plan's Preferred Alternative results in the reversal of current overdraft conditions in the long term, and the accommodation of city buildouts throughout the Valley. g Impacts to water quality resulting from the adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan I are anticipated to be comparable to, or slightly greater than those resulting from the buildout of the current General Plan. Groundwater contamination could also potentially result from the additional ' development facilitated by the proposed General Plan. The policies and programs of the proposed General Plan aim to reduce impacts to water resources to less than significant levels and assure the continued implementation of federal, state, local and other applicable pollution control standards. 3• Mitigation Measures Water Conservation With increasing demands on limited water supplies in the Coachella Valley; efforts to reduce per consumption area priority. One of the best opportunities for water conservation is the implementation of water -efficient landscaping design and management. The City has adopted a Water -Efficient Landscape Ordinance, as required by the California Water Conservation in Landscaping Act of 1990 (Section 24.04 of Palm Desert Municipal Code). The ordinance establishes minimum water -efficient landscape requirements for all new and rehabilitated public and private landscape projects. The ordinance also requires development project proponents to submit landscape construction plans, irrigation design plans and landscape maintenance schedules for review and approval by the Public Works Department. In some cases, landscape irrigation audits and soils analyses are required. The City is also in the process of preparing a Parking Lot Tree Ordinance, which will identify specific landscaping requirements for parking lots that will also be responsive to water conservation goals. The Public Works Department will be responsible for reviewing proposed parking lot landscaping plans for their conformance with this ordinance. toilets and low -flow showerheads and faucets in new construction. The City also complies with State law which, since 1992, has mandated the installation of low -flush The Coachella Valley Water District has been instrumental in developing and imp lementin re ional water conservation programs. CVWD offers water audits to farms g g associations in an effort to identify wasteful water usage and improve efficiency. It alsogo views I III-92 Water Quality/Resources Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Plan E Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts a draft Mit gat onlMeasureess landscape plans for major housing and commercial developments, and offers landscape workshops other educational programs to homeowners associations and students. CVWD P rkshois and gardens to demonstrate the effective use of native plants and efficient irrigation nsy tems. T ains o treatment and use of reclaimed and recycled water has further reduced the adverse impacts of development treatment groundwater resources. opment on General Mitigation Measures Groundwater subbasins do not respect jurisdictional boundaries, and the threat of groundwater depletion or contamination must be viewed from both a regional and local perspective. Effective sto rm g management helps to protect groundwater quality, and protection of the region's major o water watersheds will help assure and optimize long-term natural recharge to the Whi mountain groundwater repositories. tewater River and other The conservation and wise use of water resources will continue to be a central development planning in Southern California. The City of Palm Desert has developed evelo theme of community programs that encourage and/or require water -efficient landscaping and irri ation design, policies and water -conserving home appliances and fixtures. The Cityplays a g esign, as well as protection of this essential, finite and valuable resource. P Y n important role in the long-term The goals, policies and programs of the proposed Palm Desert maintain a dependable supply of safe, high -quality domestic water to meet he al Plan update aim to provide and the General Plan study area. The followingneeds of all segments of Potential impacts to water resources, associated with the implementatiomeasures n ofll th implemented to reduce to less than significant levels. he proposed General Plan, L A. The City shall continue to implement it's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance to conservation and comply with State Assembly Bill 325 (AB 325), by requiring the use optimize native and other drought -tolerant planting materials and efficient irrigation systems. B. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with the Coachella Valley Water District to expand and strengthen educational/public relations programs regarding the importance of water and water -efficient landscaping. er conservation ' C. The City shall require the use of water conserving PP fiappliances and fixtures such as low -flush toilets, and low -flow showerheads and faucets, and require the application of technologies in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safetywater-conserving ode,Title0, f California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections Code, Title a Coe in all new developments. of Title 24 of the State D. The City shall support CVWD's continuation and expansion of use of tertiary treated wastewater as a means of reducing demand for groundwater recharge efforts and E. The City shall coordinate with the CV" regarding g ter resources. tertiary treated wastewater treatment and distribution facilities ties to serve use d future expansion of development projects in the City. a existing and new III-93 Biological Resources Existing Conditions TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures F. The City shall consult and coordinate with CVWD regarding the expansion and funding of sewer service to unconnected areas, and consider approaches and mechanisms that facilitate financing and construction of these facilities. G. The City shall require that all existing and new development be connected to the sewage treatment system of the Coachella Valley Water District. H. The City shall establish and enforce regulations and guidelines for the development and maintenance of project -specific on -site retention/detention basins, which implement the NPDES program, enhance groundwater recharge, complement regional flood control facilities, and address applicable community design policies. I. The City shall evaluate all proposed land use and development plans for their potential to create groundwater contamination hazards from point and non -point sources, and shall confer with other appropriate agencies, as necessary, to assure adequate review. J. The City shall actively encourage and shall participate in the development of water management and conservation strategies, coordinating with CVAG and its member jurisdictions, the Coachella Valley Water District, Desert Water Agency and Mission Springs Water District on water supply and conservation programs. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. All development proposals shall be reviewed bythe Community Development Department and City Engineer to assess potential adverse impacts on water quality and quantity. All developments shall be required to mitigate any significant impacts. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, City Engineer, Developers, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company. B . The Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company shall coordinate and cooperate with local, state and federal agencies to assure the protection of groundwater aquifer from excessive extraction. ' Responsible Parties: Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water District F. Biological Resources 1. Existing Conditions The biological resources within and surrounding the City of Palm Desert were assessed in a comprehensive study prepared for the Palm Desert General Plan Update.19 Preparation of the said biological resources study involved literature review which included the California Natural Diversity Data Base (CNDDB), the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan, Administrative Draft Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), botanical and wildlife 19 "Palm Desert General Plan Update, Biological Report," prepared by Dr. Lawrence F. LaPre, June 29, 2001. III-94 , Biological Resources Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Plan Section Ili - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Draft Mi gtaonlMeasuress The goals of the Plan include standardized mitigation and compensation measures for species of concern on a regional basis, and meeting the requirements of federal and state protection laws for endangered species. Adoption of the MSCHP is anticipated to limit the need for individual project review of the potential effects of development activities on species of concern. 2. Project Impacts Potential Impacts to Plant Communities Grading and development of lands within the General Plan study area could Potentially result in the destruction of entire populations of common and sensitive plant species. Elimination, depletion and modification of natural communities such as sand dunes and sand fields could result in significant impacts to species with extreme limited distribution such as the Coachella Valley milk vetch. Introduction of non-native plant species associated with landscaping could result in native plant species competing for water, nutrients and space. Adverse impacts to Glandular ditaxis plant species could occur with development projects at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Potential Impacts to Invertebrates and Reptiles Potential impacts to invertebrates and reptiles are associated with continued urbanization in the General Plan study area. The Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard, flat -tailed horned lizard, and the Coachella giant sand treader cricket are known to inhabit desert sand dunes and sandy flats. Urban development may lead to disruption, fragmentation and even permanent loss of habitat which will substantiallyaffect individuals or an entire animal population. These species are also subject to impacts from traffic and off highway vehicles and crushing from grading and construction activities. Potential Impacts to Birds Increased urbanization will result in significant impacts to both common and sensitive es in the General Plan study area. Bird species are susceptible to domestic pet predation, shootingandcapture by humans and electrocution from high voltage P by Pesticides which causes the thinning of eggs ells, and introduction of parasitebances to s breeding ntribute to the decline of of bird population. Habitat for the Burrowing Owl is destroyed or becomes fragmenteddewch n development occurs in lands containing sand dunes and sand fields. Birdspecies thatwhen hilly or mountainous terrain are subject to impacts associated with development within or ad'cenithabit t and slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Flood control could affect migratoryriparian birds such to the Summer Tanager, Yellow Warbler, Least Bell's Vireo and Yellow -Breasted Chatch as the Potential Impacts to Mammals Development activities include the clearing of lands of all vegetation and wildlife. Th study area supports a diverse range common and sensitive mammals which are subject to a General Plan impacts resulting from urbanization of the surrounding environment. S � adverse encroachment on the hillsides of the Santa Rosa Mountains has already resulted in bighorn Studies have supported that habitat acquiring food and water from project developments. Animal and plant species inhabiting g sheep Rosa Mountains are also susceptible to human disturbances including shooting,c ng the Santa The loss of sand dunes and sand field habitats will affect capture or collection. Springs Round -tailed Ground Squirrel. Small mammals become 1preda Springs targetsPockeMouse and the Palm off -road vehicles and highway vehicles also contribute to the decline of gets for domestic pets and mall mammal population. III-109 Biological Resources Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Landscaping of project development may include plants that are toxic to mammals through contact or ingestion. 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall continue to support and participate in the development of the Coachella Valley Multi -Species Habitat Conservation Plan. B. The City shall designate all mountainous areas of the Santa Rosa Mountains, generally following the toe of slope, as Open Space for the protection of bighorn sheep and other species occurring in these habitats. C. Undeveloped lands that have not been graded, cleared or farmed at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains should be surveyed at the appropriate season for the presence of Glandular Ditaxis and the desert tortoise. D. The City shall not require fringe -toed lizard surveys for proposed projects on sand sheets, dunes and hummocks within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley fringe -toed lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. The payment of the mitigation fee of $600 per acre will satisfy requirements of the federal Habitat Conservation Plan. E. Proposed projects within sand deposits throughout the northern General Plan study area should be surveyed at the appropriate season for potential presence of blowsand endemics, including the flat -tailed horned lizard, giant sand -treader cricket, and the Coachella Valley milk vetch. F. The City should require surveys for the gray vireo during the spring nesting season to evaluate potential impacts to this restricted -range bird species. Surveys for the dotted blue should also be required for evaluation of discretionary permits. Surveys for these particular bird species are applicable to development proposals within Section 36, T6S, R6E. G. Developments - such as country clubs should be encouraged to establish grove plantings of untrimmed palm trees, which could provide roost sites for the southern yellow bat. H. Biological surveys for bats should be performed on projects involving reconstruction of bridges to determine if significant roost are present. I. The City should require water conservation and recycling for the Royal Carrizo, Pinyon Crest, and Chapman Ranch areas, in order to ensure adequate water supply for the endangered desert slender salamander. J. The City should consider the requirement that a barrier be constructed around the perimeter of any new project where the toe of slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains meets the valley floor. This would protect bighorn sheep and prevent additional habituation and reliance on food and water from developed areas. Informal consultation or review by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Game should be completed prior to imposition of this III-110 E Biological Resources Mitigation Measures recommendation. This barrier is sheep recovery plan. Section Ili _ TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan es Conditions, Impacts and t o MitiganMe Measures one of the recommended conservation actions in the bighorn K. The City shall encourage and cooperate in the establishment of multi drainage channels and utility easements to provide wildlife corridors use corridors that use interconnections between open space areas, rs and public access L. The City shall prepare and maintain a comprehensive list of plant native and non-native, drought tolerant trees, shrubs and grounant ver materials at r that complement, which shall include environment. A list of prohibited plant materials shall also be prepared complement the local Mitigation Monitoring(Re ortin P g Program A. The City shall review information database and mapping system of habitats occurring within the General Plan study area, which shallbe accurate plants, animals and updated. accurately and regularly Responsible Parties: Community Development Department GIS Staff B • The Initial Study review process will be utilized to assess of Projects on biological resources. Impacts shall be cle P ential impacts of development recommended where appropriate. alY documented and mitigation measures Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting C. The City shall assure that all required biological re Biologist limited to off -site mitigations and/or the a g source mitigation actions, including but not building permits. P yment of impact fees are satisfied, prior to issuance of Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting ' D• Inspection during development and grading Biologist assure the preservation and incorporation of native and other a shall monitor compliance with grading limits, and ' materials into all areas of the project according to the approved landscape desert landscape Responsible Parties: Community Development Department,� ply' Developer/Consulting Biologist 1 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft Section III —Existing Conditons, Im acts Plan EIR d Mitigation Measures G. Cultural Resources Analysis of cultural resources within the Palm Desert General Plan study area involved the preparation of a cultural resources study for the City by CRM Tech. The study is included in Appendix C of this document. 1• Existing Conditions The Patin Desert General Plan is part of a region that has witnessed human occupation for thousands of years. Cultural resources in the General Plan study area consist of Native American settlements that were established before and after the arrival of Euro an - features that were built and used as early as the 1700'ss by European ssetttl 11 as historical structures and Pre -Historic Settlement in the Study Area The "pre -historic" period represents the time prior to the arrival of non -Native American o les. The pre -historic period in Coachella Valley is generally divided into the Archaic Period and Late peoples. Period. The Archaic Period occurred before 1,000 A.D. while the Late Prehistoric Period is defined as occurring after 1000 A.D. until around the late 1700s. The introduction of pottery by the Colorado River tribes to the region, around 1000 A.D., established the transition point between the Archaic and Late Prehistoric Periods and also indicates interaction between the Coachella Valley tribes and the Colorado River tribes. The Cahuilla, a Takic-speaking people of hunters and gatherers, is the most recent identifiable native culture to evolve in the Coachella Valley region. Anthropologists have divided the Cahuilla into three groups according to their geographic setting: the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio Pass/Palm Springs area; the Mountain Cahuilla of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains; and the Desert Cahuilla of the eastern Coachella Valley, as, far south as today's Salton Sea. Each lineage had its own food harvesting areas, ceremonial house and chief. However, a number of lineages are known to have cooperated with one another for trade, intermarriage, and ceremonies. During the prehistoric period, important cultural developments include the change from burial practices to cremations around 500 B.C. and the introduction of the bow and arrow, probably around 500 A.D. Historical linguistic studies suggest that between 1000 BC and 500 AD, a migration of Takic speakers from the Great Basin region of Nevada, Utah, and eastern California into southern California took place. The first official land survey of the Coachella Valley was conducted by Deputy U.S. Surveyors Hen ry Washington, James McDonald, and John LaCroze in 1855-1856. The surveyors noted a number of man- made features inthe study area, including the ruins of an Indian village near today's Thousand Palms Oasis. They also identified several trails, one of which crossed the middle portion of the study area along the Whitewater River, close to the city center of present-day Palm Desert. The trail was part of the Cocomaricopa Trail, which was later "discovered" by Euro-Americans as the Bradshaw Trail. The 1855-1856 surveys, also indicates that there were no active native or non-native settlements in the stud area. The nearest settlement to the study area was the Palma Seca well, an Indian rancheria, which served as an important stop on the Bradshaw Trail during the 1860s and 1870s and is located in the present-day city of Indian Wells. 1ii_ 1 1 7 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIIi Section III —Existing Conditions, impacts and Mitigation Measure, During the 1770's, the Spaniards crossed through Cahuilla territory as they explored for new land routes between Mexico and northern California. It is considered that initial contact between the Cahuilla and Europeans took place during this period. Over time, conflicts over land ownership, religious and cultural practices and exploitation led to the deterioration of the relationship between the Cahulla and Europeans. In the early 1860s, a smallpox epidemic, to which the Cahuilla had no immunity, decimated the Cahuilla population, which declined to about 2,500 individuals. Today, Native Americans of the Pass and Desert Cahuilla heritage are mostly affiliated with one or more of the Indian reservations in the Coachella Valley, including the Torres Martinez, Augustine, Agua Caliente, Cabazon, and Morongo, most of which are in close proximity to the City of Palm Desert. Historic Settlement in the Study Area During the late 18" century, Spain was determined to colonize California before other European nations. Along the coast of California, religious missions and military strongholds were established by Spanish explorers. By 1700's, Spanish and Mexican explorers crossed through the Coachella Valley as they searched for easily passable supply routes from Mexico to colonies on the northern Monterey Peninsula of California. In 1822, Mexico secured its independence from Spain under the Treaty of Cordova, and Spanish forces were driven out of Mexico and California. In 1823-1825, Jose Romero, Jose Maria Estudillo, and Romualdo Pacheco led an expedition in search of a route to Yuma, Arizona and became the first noted European explorers to travel through the Coachella Valley. In 1848, the United States defeated Mexico in the Mexican -American War and gained control of California. At the same time, the discovery of gold and the appeal of cattle ranching led to an influx of new settlers to the state. California was admitted to the Union in 1850. The first U.S. Government surveys were conducted in the Coachella Valley in 1855-56 by Henry Washington, John La Croze and James G. McDonald, who observed a number of trails and roads crossing the Valley. The Cocomaricopa Trail passed through the Coachella Valley along the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, and connected the ,coastal region of California with the Colorado River. The trail was originally an Indian trade route and was revealed by the Maricopa Indians to the Europeans in 1821. In 1862, the trail was "rediscovered" by William David Bradshaw as the shortest route between the California coast and gold mines near the Colorado River, and it became known as the Bradshaw Trail. The trail served as the primary thoroughfare for stagecoaches traveling between coastal southern California and the gold fields near present-day Ehrenberg, Arizona. It also became part of the U.S. Mail route between Los Angeles and Santa Fe, New Mexico. By the late 1876-77, however, the completion of the transcontinental railroad and the depletion Paz gold mines brought an end to the heyday of this historic wagon road. Traffic declined of nearlthe y nothing by 1880, but ranchers and miners continued to use it for local transport. In the early twentieth century, with the coming of the automobile age, the role of the Bradshaw Trail was revived in the form of the Ocean -to -Ocean Highway. Today, State Highway 111 closely follows the course of the Bradshaw Trail . TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Non -Indian settlement in the Coachella Valley expanded during the 1870s and 1880s, with the establishment of railroad stations along the Southern Pacific line and the implementation of the Homestead Act and Desert Land Act, which opened public land for claims. With the utilization of underground water sources, farming became the dominant economic activity in the Coachella Valley. The date palm, the region's main agricultural staple, was first introduced around 1900, and by the late 1910s the date palm industry had firmly established itself in the region. Starting in the 1920s, however, a new industry featuring equestrian camps, resort hotels and eventually country clubs began spreading throughout the Valley. The General Plan study area remained unsettled and devoid of any evidence of land development until the turn of the twentieth century. The only features recorded during that time were the Southern Pacific Railroad, Bradshaw Trail, and another trail near the northern tip of the Planning Area at the mouth of West Wide Canyon. Several railroad construction workers' camps were present by the early 1900s. In 1910, improvements to the Bradshaw Trail (the forerunner of today's Highway 111) further paved the way for settlement and growth in the "cove communities" region of the Coachella Valley. By 1914, a railroad station named Edom, which contained a post office, was established in the General Plan Planning Area. The construction of the Colorado River Aqueduct by the Metropolitan Water District, between 1933 and 1939 brought a number of permanent and temporary features to the northernmost portion of the Planning Area. Among these were roads, power transmission lines, waterlines, and construction camps. The remains of one of eight construction camps, Camp Thousand Palms, have been discovered at the mouth of East Deception Canyon in the foothills of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. By 1941, several rural settlements had been established in the area between the Southern Pacific Railroad (now. Union Pacific) and the Indio Hills. Among these were Thousand Palms, Edom, Myoma, the Ferguson Ranch, the Thousand Palms Oasis, the Bar Bell Ranch, the Chuckwalla Ranch, and the Hunter Palms Ranch. The small community of Palm Village was established south of the railroad, on the north side of Highway 111. The Founding of the City of Palm Desert The City of Palm Desert was founded on the south side of Highway I II in 1945-1946 by the four Henderson brothers, Randall, Carl, Clifford, and Phil. The Henderson brothers were involved in early development, and organized the Palm Desert Corporation to promote their new desert town, and by ' 1947, the population was sufficient to establish a post office. In 1951, Palm Village and Palm Desert merged into a single community, forming the present urban core of the city. Around that time, the community of Cahuilla Hills emerged on the west side of Highway 74, just southwest of Palm Desert. In addition, several tracts of land south of the railroad and in the area between the Little San Bernardino Mountains and the Indio Hills were settled. After four unsuccessful attempts, the City of Palm Desert was incorporated in 1973 and became the 17' incorporated city in Riverside County. r3 Legend ff TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Archaeological Resources in the Study Area Historical maps, previous cultural resource surveys, aerial photographs, topographic maps and other cultural records were consulted to determine the presence of known archaeological resources in the General Plan study area. A total of 138 archaeological sites have been identified and recorded in the General Plan study area, 125 of which are prehistoric (Native American) sites. Several isolated artifacts have also been identified. The majority of prehistoric sites in the General Plan study area represent Native American habitation activities, including ceramic and lithic scatters, bedrock milling features, rock cairns, trails, roasting pits, and fire hearths. One quarry site has also been identified. Most of these sites are located along the sides of canyons at the edge of the Santa Rosa Mountains, such as Coyote Cree mountain and desert resources. k and Deep Canyon, or in the Indio Hills. These areas would have offered Native Americans access to water and other important Archaeological Reso �rcPs nsitivity Asses ment Anthropologists and Cahuilla cultural authorities have identified nine locations within the General Plan study area that are of potential Native American cultural significan e3ixlof these areas occur within the Santa Rosa Mountains in the southern portion of the City's sphere. Six of thee, and three are situated in the Indio Hills in northern portion of the General Plan study are associated with canyons, which offered water on at least a seasonal basis. These findings sugg stnem that the various canyons in the Santa Rosa Mountains and Indio Hills, and the alluvial fans at the canyon mouths, should be regarded as highly sensitive for prehistoric archaeological resources. Potentially sensitive areas are shown in Exhibits III-114 and III-15. r Historic Resources in the Study Area Historically significant sites are generally more than forty-five to fifty years of age, but range from the period of the earliest European contact (around the late 1770s in the Coachella Valley) to about the end of World War H. Potentially significant historic sites range from permanent trails and highways to living areas and small-scale remains of single activities. Analysis of previous cultural resources studies indicates that, of the 138 archaeological sites recorded in the General Plan study area, 13 are historic -era sites. These are primarily comprised of trash scatters, although structural foundations, a road, and a water conveyance system have also been recorded. Among the historic sites are the Southern Pacific Railroad and other nearby features associated with the railroad. Several sites associated with the construction of the Colorado River Aqueduct in the 1930s have been recorded in the vicinity of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. From 1981 to 1983, the Riverside County Historical Commission coordinated a countywide historical resources reconnaissance, which led to the recordation of 30 historic sites in the General Plan study area. These include a well site that dates back to 1912, the Cavanagh Adobe building that was built in the 1920s, and single-family residences constructed in the 1930s and 1940s. Most of these sites are located near the city center of Palm Desert, although several are near the community of Thousand Palms. Although the City of Palm Desert does not maintain a list of officially recognized or designated local historical landmarks, the Historical Society of Palm Desert has compiled a list of 21 sites of local historical significance. The list includes sites ranging from early homesteads to mid -twentieth century III-117 TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures urban development. They are concentrated in the central urban core of the City, and only a few are located in outlying areas. The majority of the sites were recorded on the California Historical Resource Information System during the countywide survey in the 1980s. Historic Resources Sensiti�a Assessment Historic structures dating from the late 1940s and early 1950s are concentrated around the urban core of the City, and structures of similar vintage are likely to be found in outlying communities, such as Thousand Palms and Cahuilla Hills. For historic structures, or historic -period archaeological remains dating before 1940, the most sensitive areas in the planning area are along the Colorado River Aqueduct, between the Indio Hills and the Southern Pacific Railroad, and around the original community of Palm Village north of Highway 111. Nonetheless, the possibility of finding historic resources in other areas cannot be ruled out. Potentially sensitive areas are identified in Exhibits III-14 and III-15. Programs Administered by the City of Palm Desert The City of Palm Desert is an active participant in the preservation of its cultural resources. In 1978, the City formed the Historical Commission and appointed four members to carry out the responsibilities of coordinating and preserving memorabilia associated with the founding and development of the City. This led to the incorporation of the Historical Society of Palm Desert in March 1979, which has played an important role in the City's historic preservation efforts since then. Today, the Historical Society maintains numerous archival records pertaining to the City's development, which is housed in the City's historic fire station located at 72-861 El Paseo and is staffed by about 38 volunteers. Historic Preservation Ordinance in 1984, the Palm Desert City Council formally adopted Ordinance 401, a historic preservation ordinance which outlines the definitions and criteria of "historic site" and "historic district." The ordinance requires the maintenance of a seven -member Historic Site Preservation Board to identify and protect properties meeting these definitions and criteria. The Board also has the authority and the responsibility to initiate the designation of historic sites or districts, review projects that may affect such sites, and issue temporary stays on demolition or exterior alterations of potentially historic structures. 2. Project Impacts Historically significant sites and structures are those that are 45 years of age or older and provide evidence of past human activities. Based on California Environmental Quality Act ( CEQA) Guidelines, Appendix K, cultural resourcep must be evaluated for their importance or significance.' " An important archaeological resource" is defined by CEQA as one which: A. Is associated with an event or person of. 1. Recognized significance in California or American history, or 2. Recognized scientific importance in prehistory; B. Can provide information which is both of demonstrable public interest and useful in addressing scientifically consequential and reasonable or archaeological research questions; "California Environmental Quality Act — Statutes and Guidelines." Prepared by the Governor's Office of Planning and Research, State of California, June 1992. Appendix K: Archaeological Impacts. III-118 Cultural Resources Mitigation Measures a ft` NICity of Palm Desert Plan E Section III -� Existing Conditions, Impacts andrMitigatt'onlMeasureess C. Has a special or particular quality such as oldest, best example, largest, or last surviving ex of its kind; example p D. Is at least 100 years old and possesses substa ntial stratlgraphic integrity; or, E. Involves important research questions that historical research has shown can be answered only with archaeological methods. y Based on the findings of the cultural resources study for the proposed General Plan update, the Desert General Plan study area includes lands of high sensitivity for prehistoric and archaeological artifacts, as well as historic structures or historic -period archaeological remains. g The study identifies that areas of high sensitivity for prehistoric and archaeological remains occur in the various canyons in the Santa Rosa Mountains and Indio Hills and the alluvial fans at the canyon mouths which would have provided the Native populations access to mountain and desert reso urces, as well as water sources in the canyons. However, it should be noted that the proposed General Plan Update designates the majority of these lands for men conservation, and limited lands designated for development are assigned very low densities. p t Areas particularly sensitive for historic structures or historic -period archaeological remains dating before 1940 are located along the Colorado River Aqueduct, between the Indio Hills and the Sou Pacific Railroad, and around the original community of palm Village. Historic structures from the ern 1940s and early 1950s most likely occur in the urban core of the city, along with Outlyingcommunis late such as Thousand Palms, Cahuilla Hills and the Sky Valley area. As mentioned above, the Citycontinues to participate in the preservation of cultural resources by implementing Historic Preservation Ordinance 401 and by establishing the Historic Site Preservation Board. The Historical Societ of P Desert has also played an important role in the City's historic preservation efforts. y alm Future development projects in the General Plan study area could potentially indirect disturbance or destruction of sensitive archaeological and historic resources. Site surveys and/or be conducted on all future development projects, if deemed necess Yshould significance of archaeological and historic resources.y, to determine the presence and 3• Mitigation Measures Continued development and urbanization of the proposed Palm Desert General Plan planning decrease the opportunities for documenting and preserving archaeological and historic site The City of Palm Desert has the responsibility to assure that eve p mng area will s and artifacts. cultural resources Properly and creatively within its jurisdiction. The California Environ ort is made t l manage Act (CEQA) identifies the manner in which the City must review and address i mental Quality archaeological and historic resources. Projects involving a federal agency, federal fun issues related to federal assistance must conform to Section 106 of the National Historic Preservationfunding or other 1966. In addition, the following mitigation measures are recommended to reduce t Act (NHPA) of cultural resources to less than significant levels. potential impacts to 14at igat .®n Measilres `ICl/City o Palm Deseef Draft General Flan EIR. Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures A. All development or land use proposals, which have the potential to disturb or destroy sensitive cultural resources, shall be evaluated by a qualified professional and, if necessary, comprehensive Phase I studies and appropriate mitigation measures shall be incorporated into project approvals. B . The City should establish a transmittal system with the Eastern Information Center (EIC) in which the City may send a location map to the EIC for a transmittal -level records search when a development proposal is in its initial review phase. The transmittal shall. identify the presence or absence of known cultural resources and/or previously performed studies in and near the project area. The EIC shall also offer recommendations regarding the need for additional studies, where necessary. C. The City shall expand and enhance its historic preservation efforts by preparing a historic preservation plan and by considering participation in the Certified Local Government program. D. The City shall also incorporate historic preservation concerns into its zoning ordinance. E. The City shall establish and maintain an inventory of archaeological and historical resources within its jurisdiction, including those identified by the Eastern Information Center (EIC) at the University of California, Riverside and in focused cultural resources studies. F. The City shall protect sensitive archaeological and historic resources from vandalism and illegal collection to the greatest extent possible. The City shall maintain mapping and similar information, which identifies specific locations of sensitive cultural resources, in a confidential manner, and access to such information shall be provided only to those with appropriate professional or organizational ties. G. The City shall support the listing of eligible structures or sites as potential historic landmarks and their inclusion in the National Register of Historic Place. The City will consult and cooperate with the Palm Desert Historical Society and other appropriate cultural organizations in identifying and prioritizing sites which are eligible for listing as a historic landmark or inclusion in the National Register of Historic Places. H. The City shall develop an application process for City -sponsored incentives to maintain and enhance significant buildings and sites, and provide property owners with information and guidance on eligibility requirements. J. In the event that archaeological resources are unexpectedly discovered during construction, the City shall require that development cease, and a professional archaeologist shall be employed to examine and document the site to determine subsequent activities and appropriate mitigation measures. III-120 Air Quality Existing Conditions TN/City of Palm Desert Plan E Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts draft Mit gat onlMeasureess Mitigation Monitoring /Reporting Program A. Potential impacts of development projects on cultural resources shall be evaluated through the Initial Study review process. Impacts shall be clearly documented and mitigation measures recommended where appropriate. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Developer/Consulting Archaeologist, UC-Riverside Eastern Information Center. B . City Staff shall review cultural resources reference materials and update City records and inventories on an annual basis to assure timely and adequate maintenance of the database. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, and UC-Riverside Eastern Information Center. H. Air Quality The air quality of a particular locale is a significant factor to public health and welfare. Over the past two decades, air quality improvements have occurred in Southern California and the Coachella Valley. However, the region continues to experience significant air pollution problems, particularly those associated with suspended particulates. The City of Palm Desert and other surrounding communities demonstrate their commitment to improving air quality in the region by implementing air quality management programs. 1. Existing Conditions The Coachella Valley is located within a meteorologically and geographic area. The surrounding mountains shield the valley from coastal influen es fromthe west, and create ea hot, low- lying desert environment. The valley is also prone to air inversions, in which a layer of stagnant air is trapped near the ground where it is further loaded with pollutants. This process, when combined with chemical aerosols and other pollutants emitted by automobiles, furnaces and other sources, can result in considerable haziness and increased pollutant levels. The Coachella Valley is also subject to strong and sustained winds that pick up and transport large quantities of sand and dust, depositing these materials on buildings, fabrics and automobiles thereby reducing visibility and damaging property. Extensive wind-borne soil can dirty streets, pit windshields and damage landscaping. Dust on vegetation can interfere with plant respiration and stunt growth. The adverse health effects in humans can be severe and include reduced lung capacity and functioning. Air Quality Management and Regulation Air quality management in the proposed General Plan study area is governed by federal and s quality standards and regulations pertaining to a variety of air pollutants. tate air The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) implements the federal Clean Air Act CAA), which is intended to ensure that all Americans have the basic health and environmental protections ( with to air quality. The CAA establishes minimum air pollution standards, but allows states to weregard pact and III-121 Air Quality Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures project emissions should be compared to the projected future baseline (without mitigation) for the years corresponding to project phasing and/or buildout year.' 3 The projected future baseline for the Coachella Valley will be affected less by future growth in the Palm Desert General Plan area and more from growth in other valley communities with large amounts of affordable land available for development, including the aforementioned cities of Desert Hot Springs, La Quinta, Indio, Coachella, and the unincorporated areas. 3. Mitigation Measures The South Coast Air Quality Management District, CVAG and the City of Palm Desert share responsibility for monitoring air pollutant levels and regulating air pollution sources. Preservation of the environment and protection of the general public from harmful air pollutants involves monitoring and mitigating activities, which contribute to the degradation of local and regional air quality. A range of mitigation measures developed by federal, state and local agencies can be put into effect throughout the life of the General Plan to reduce pollutant emissions associated with General Plan buildout. The ongoing implementation and updating of California Title 24 Building Codes, combined with more efficient use of energy, can contribute to the reduction of impacts of pollutant emissions from heating, cooling, power plants and the consumption of natural gas. Alternative methods of electrical power generation have and will continue to replace the need for additional fossil fuel -based generating capacity. In the State of California automobile smog checks are mandatory and are designed to ensure vehicle compliance with existing emissions standards. It is feasible that improvements to combustion technology and an overall decline in air pollutant will occur in the future. Cleaner fuels and more efficient transportation vehicles are expected to continue to evolve. Impacts to air quality associated with the adoption and implementation of the General proposed neral Plan are potentially significant if left unmitigated. Within the context of the anticipated future baseline, mitigation measures set forth below are provided to reduce General Plan air quality impacts to less than significant levels: A. The City shall coordinate and cooperate with CVAG and SCAQMD in the ongoing monitoring and management of major pollutants affecting the City and region, with particular focus on PM,o, and shall provide all required reporting to be ultimately included in SCAQMD's annual report. B . The City shall develop and maintain its General Plan Land Use Element to assure that air pollution point sources, such as manufacturing facilities, are located at an appropriate distance from residential areas and other sensitive land uses and receptors. C. The City shall encourage project developers to develop site plans that integrate buffer zones between sensitive receptors and point source emitters such as highways and industrial sources. " CEQA Air Quality Handbook," prepared by South Coast Air Quality Management District, April 1993. III-137 Air Quality Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Conditions, Impacts drMitigation General lPlan es Measures D. The City shall review all development proposals for potential adverse effects on air quality an as appropriate, require detailed air quality analyses and mitigation measures to address any potentially significant impacts. Mitigation measures and dust control plans shall be approved b the City prior to the issuance of grading, construction, demolition or other permitsy . E. The City shall encourage the incorporation of energy -efficient design measures in site plans, including appropriate site orientation to assure solar access, and the use of shade and windbreak trees to enhance the use of alternative energy systems and to reduce the need for excessive heating and cooling. F. The City shall develop and maintain a diversified transportation system that maximizes system efficiencies, minimizes vehicle miles traveled, and reduces the impact of motor vehicles on local air quality. G. The City shall continue to promote the development ' as well as community -wide multi -use tx'ailsPdedica d bike lanessman-oriented retail centers, ths, and other desirable alternatives to motor vehicle traffic. These components shall e ilf cart ntegrated teg ated and periodically updated in the General Plan Circulation Element. H. The City shall implement and coordinate with the SCAQMD and CVAG to assure ade uate monitoring of the effectiveness of transportation management programs of employers, includin use of Sunline and other public transportation, coordinated carpooling, g employee flex -time and other components. As future demand warrants, gthe f City halllf promote and support the development of a Park -and -Ride program to decrease existing and future traffic levels within the community. I• The City shall encourage' the use of clean alternative energy sources for transportation, heating, cooling and electrical generation, to the greatest extent practical and shall encourage and coordinate with its franchise service providers and other public and private service providers to do same. P J • The City shall continue to implement the Fugitive Dust Control Ordinance appcable to construction, grading and demolition activities, on -going land uses, and off_ lle reduce PM10 emissions to the greatest extent practical. road vehicuse to, K. The City shall continue to provide an effective street sweeping program that combats the cumulative impacts of blowsand, transportation -related dust generation, and nuisance dust that result from natural windstorm events. L. The City shall require the implementation of air quality control measures identified in the , current Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan. most M. A PMIo Management Plan for construction operations shall be submitted with all devel proposals. The plan shall include dust management controls such as: opment watering the site and equipment morning and evening III-138 0 Air Quality Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palen Desert Draft General Plan EIIt Section III Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures • spreading soil binders on disturbed areas, unpaved roads, and parking areas • operating street -sweepers on paved roads adjacent to site • re-establishing ground cover on construction site through seeding and watering • paving construction access roads, as appropriate N. To minimize construction equipment emissions, the City shall assure that developers and contractors shall, as appropriate, implement the following: • wash off trucks leaving the site • require trucks to maintain two -feet of freeboard • properly tune and maintain construction equipment • use low sulphur fuel for construction equipment O. To reduce construction -related traffic congestion, developers and contractors shall, as appropriate, implement the following: • encourage rideshare incentives for construction personnel • configure construction parking to minimize traffic interference • minimize obstruction of through -traffic lanes • provide a flag person to ensure safety at construction sites, as necessary • schedule operations affecting roadways for off-peak hours, as practical P. To minimize indirect -source emissions, developers may also: • implement energy conservation measures beyond state and local requirements • install low -polluting and high -efficiency appliances • install solar water heaters, to the greatest extent feasible • install energy -efficient street, landscape and parking lot lighting • include energy costs and design efficiency into capital expenditure analyses • landscape, with native and other appropriate drought -resistant species to reduce water consumption and to provide passive solar benefits Q. To minimize building energy requirements, developers shall implement the following: • assure the thermal integrity of buildings and, as appropriate, reduce the thermal load with automated time clock or occupant sensors • use efficient window glazing, wall insulation and ventilation methods • use most efficient heating and other appliances, such as water heaters cooking equipment, refrigerators, furnaces and boiler units • incorporate appropriate passive solar design and solar heaters • use devices that minimize the combustion of fossil fuels • capture waste heat and re-employ this heat, to the greatest extent practicable Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department shall coordinate with South Coast Air Quality Management District and CVAG to facilitate the maintenance and expansion of the Coachella Valley's existing air quality monitoring equipment. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCAQMD, CVAG Air Quality Mitigation. Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures B. The appropriate code enforcement division shall record, consolidate and retain all complaints it receives concerning air quality degradation from construction sites, vehicle emissions, industrial generators, and other sources of air quality impacts. A report on air quality complaints and identified problems shall be provided in the annual review of the General Plan. In addition, development may be temporarily halted until inadequate controls or unacceptable conditions are corrected to the satisfaction of the City and/or SCAQMD. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, SCAQMD, CVAG C. The City Public Works Department shall monitor the performance of the City's roadways system, identify areas of congestion and inefficient traffic movement, and develop recommendations to enhance the performance of all components of the City transportation system. Responsible Parties: City Public Works Department, SCAQMD, CVAG I. Noise ' The noise environment can have a significant influence on the health and comfort of a community. Assessment of the noise environment in the General Plan study area involved the preparation of a noise study by Urban Crossroads. The study examines the existing noise environment in the General Plan study area and projects the future noise impacts associated with General Plan buildout. This study is included in its entirety in Appendix E of this document. 1. Existing Conditions Noise is simply defined as unwanted sound. Excessive noise affects physical health, psychological well being, social cohesion, property values and economic productivity. The effects of noise on people include subjective effects, such as annoyance and nuisance; interference with activities such as conversation and sleep; and psychological effects, ranging from startle to hearing loss. Noise generators include components of urbanization such as construction equipment and activities, motor vehicles, air and rail traffic, mechanical equipment, household appliances and other sources. Generally, the City of Palm Desert enjoys a quiet noise environment, with existing community noise being dominated primarily by constant motor vehicle traffic on highways and major arterials. The noise environment of the General Plan study area is also affected by local airport operations. Given its aviation at the Palm Springs Regional Airport occasionally has an intrusive but location, the Bermuda Dunes Airport has the greatest impact in the General Plan study area. Commercial in impact on t the community's noise environment. However, current airport master plan improve to further reduce airport noise exposure in Palm Desert. ments are projected Freight rail service along the Union Pacific Railroad lines located immediately south of and parallel to I- 10 are also responsible for generating substantial noise levels in the community. Other community noise generators include industrial operations, construction activities, special event noise, live music, home III-140 1 Noise Nitlgatlon Neas7ares TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Commercial and Industrial Noise Commercial and industrial activities generate noise resulting from loading and docking operations, truck operations, and mechanical equipment installed both outside and inside buildings. Sensitive noise receptors adjacent to commercial and industrial land uses are anticipated to experience the significant impacts of noise associated with commercial and industrial activities. The review of commercial and industrial projects, particularly those in close proximity to sensitive receptors, for land use and noise compatibility issues is critical as the General Plan study area continues to expand. The use of new technologies, combined with the design requirements imposed by the City, including screening and enclosures for stationary equipment, will help to mitigate potential impacts associated with General Plan buildout. Construction Noise Construction noise constitutes a short-term impact on adjacent land uses. However, significant noise impacts could result from construction activities such as heavy construction equipment, that can generate noise levels ranging from 68 dBA to 100 dBA when measured at 50 feet from the noise source. 3. Mitigation Measures Continued growth and development in the General Plan study area will result in significant impacts associated with noise. Strategic land use and transportation planning, project design mitigation, and acoustical barriers contribute highly to the management of the City's noise environment. Noise Ordinance In 1985, the City of Palm Desert adopted Title 9, Chapter 9.24 of its Municipal Code, which established community -wide noise standards to emphasize the value of an acceptable noise environment. The City Noise Control Ordinance provides regulations for noise measurement and monitoring and cites special provisions of, and exemptions to, the ordinance. It is intended to regulate excessive noise from existing uses and associated activities, and to serve as a reference guide for identifying other pertinent noise regulations. The Palm Desert Noise Control Ordinance provides definitions of key terms and establishes exterior noise level standards on a time -of -day basis along with adjustments for intensity and duration. According to the City Noise Ordinance, the exterior noise one -hour standard for residential land uses is 55 dB between 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. and 45 dB between 10 p.m. to 7 a.m. Violations of the Noise Control Ordinance are considered as a nuisance and subject to the procedures, remedies and penalties set forth in the City's Violations/Infractions Ordinance. Noise Barriers Because of the linear qualities of noise, barriers, such as walls, can be effective in reducing its impacts. It is important to note, however, that noise barriers must be of sufficient height and length to obstruct the noise source entirely (generally in Palm Desert this noise source will be the City's roadways). Reductions of 10 to 15 dB can be achieved with effective, solid walls which block the line of site from a home to the adjacent roadway. The noise standards in the General Plan are intended to guide the location of future noise generators and sensitive land uses. The following mitigation measures shall be implemented to reduce impacts associated with noise to less than significant level: Noise Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Dealt General Plan EIId Section III —Existing Conditions, impacts and Mitigation Measures Categorical Mitigation Measures The following discussion describes the specific mitigation measures, which are stated on a categorical basis to address identified impacts. Construction Noise A . The City shall restrict grading and construction activities that may affect residential neighborhoods and other sensitive land uses to specified days of the week and times of the day. B. All construction equipment operating in the General Plan study area shall be fitted with well maintained functional mufflers to limit noise emissions. C. To the greatest extent feasible, earth moving and hauling routes shall be located away from nearby existing residences. D. Any portion of development in the General Plan study area involving blasting or pile driving operations shall have a focused acoustical study conducted, to establish the level and duration of off -site noise and vibration impacts and appropriate mitigation measures. On -Site Sta ioUU WS So' ..Ps E. The design, selection and placement of the mechanical equipment for various buildings within the General Plan study area shall include consideration of the potential noise impact on nearby residences, both within the any development and in the surrounding community. F. Silencers and/or barriers shall be provided where necessary at outdoor equipment, such as cooling towers, air cooled condensers and refrigeration compressors/condenser units, and at the air intake and discharge openings for building ventilation systems. G. Appropriate sound barriers shall be provided surrounding any and all public facilities capable of generating disturbing levels of noise, such as water pumping stations. Off -Site Taffic Noise H. Potential noise impacts shall be considered in the final site plans for all proposed projects within the General Plan study area. Factors to be considered shall include the strategic arrangement of housing to provide necessary shielding of outdoor living areas, the incorporation of additional setbacks from roadways, and/or the construction of additional noise barriers. I. Project designs shall be required to include measures which assure that interior noise levels for residential development do not exceed 45 CNEL, as required by Title 25, California Noise Insulation Standards. J. Land uses that are compatible with higher noise levels shall be located adjacent to the City's major arterial roads and highways, including the Interstate-10 corridor, to maximize noise related land use compatibility. III-152 Noise s Mitigation Measures TNICity of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures K. The City shall require the preparation of a noise impact analysis for all commercial and industrial projects which are to be located adjacent to residential land uses or other sensitive land use designations. The required noise impact analysis shall evaluate potential impacts of the project and provide for adequate mitigation measures to assure that City standards for residential and/or other sensitive land uses are maintained. L. The City shall encourage a City-wide circulation pattern which places primary traffic loads on major arterials and preserves local neighborhood noise environments by limiting roadways to local traffic to the greatest extent practical. Mitigation Monitorin a ortin � p g Program A . Establish and periodically update an inventory of existing significant noise sources and incompatible areas, and develop procedures to reduce the noise effects on these areas, where economically and aesthetically feasible. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department B. Periodically review land use patterns and the community noise environment, and amend the land use map as appropriate to assure reasonable and use/noise compatibility. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, City r Council C. In areas subject to potentially significant noise impacts, the City shall require new development to monitor and document compliance with all applicable noise level limits. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department Pre -Construction D. During project -specific site planning and building design, ensure acoustical analysis takes into consideration the following: a selection and placement of mechanical equipment for all buildings, a shielding and buffering of mechanical equipment for all buildings, a strategic location of attached residences to provide shielding of outdoor living spaces, o theme wall is constructed to noise barrier specifications, a designate acceptable truck/construction equipment route(s), as appropriate, a construction drawings shall include exact acoustical specifications for window glass in buildings with unshielded first and second floor windows which experience noise exposures above CNEL 65 and, o verify that design plans of specific projects within the General Plan study area comply with State Code requirements of unit -to -unit airborne sound isolation Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor and City Community Development Department Noise Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General plan Elie. Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures During Construction E. Ensure functional mufflers on all construction equipment. Responsible Parties: Developer, General Contractor, Building Department F. Ensure that designated truck/construction equipment routes are being utilized. Responsible Parties: General and Grading Contractor, Building Department G. Ensure construction equipment operates duringthe hours set in the Noise Ordinance except in p emergencies. Responsible Parties: General Contractor, Building Department I Visual Resources I 1. Existing Conditions Regional Setting The City of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley benefit from significant viewsheds created by the area's geology. On the north, the Valley is bordered by the San Bernardino and Little San Bernardino Mountains, as well as the Indio Hills. Much of this land, which borders the General Plan study area, has been protected as open space in perpetuity by the creation of the Joshua Tree National Monument. The Indio Hills are south of the Little San Bernardino Mountains. Edom Hill rises to an elevation of 1,614 feet. The Indio Hills are upgradient from the planning area, and can be seen from many parts of the General Plan study area. Edom Hill, located easterly of the planning area, rises to an elevation of just over 1,600 feet above sea level. The San Jacinto Mountains comprise the western boundary of the Coachella Valley, along with the significant peak of San Gorgonio. The San Jacinto Mountains rise sharply from the Valley floor, and represent the steepest gradient in North America. The San Jacinto range, although clearly visible from most parts of the City, is not immediately adjacent to the General Plan study area. The General Plan study area is bordered on the south by the Santa Rosa Mountains. The highest peaks in this range include Toro Peak, at 8,717 feet above sea level, and Santa Rosa Peak at 8,000 feet above sea level. Through the City, Highway 111 follows roughly the toe of slope of this range, which provides a stunning backdrop to the City's built environment. The San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains were designated a National Monument by Congress in 2000, ensuring their preservation as a valuable scenic resource for the long term. Local Setting The majority of the City and planning area are located on the Valley floor, at elevations close to sea level. Only the southern part of the City, located east and west of Highway 74, occurs at more significant elevations, in the Santa Rosa mountains. Development in south Palm Desert, from El Paseo to Bighorn Country Club, occurs on the alluvial fan which falls from the Santa Rosa foothills to the Visual Resources Project Impacts TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Valley floor. The balance of the City and planning area, further south, is designated for open space land uses, and will not experience development. The development which has occurred in the City and in adjacent communities abuts the Santa Rosa mountains, and has created a striking contrast visible from most of the Valley, and therefore its most significant visual resource. In the northern porti on n of the study area, development to date has been limited beyond Interstate 10. This area is characteristic of the wind-blown sand dunes created by climatic conditions in the area, and has limited visual value. 2. Project Impacts Buildout of the Preferred Alternative is expected to result in the continuation of development as currently occurs in the City. The generally suburban and resort -oriented nature of residential and commercial development will not change significantly with buildout of the General Plan. The General Plan also does not propose to significantly change the generally low-rise, and thus low density, types of structures which have been built in the past. All development, however, will continue to change the appearance of the Valley floor, and has the potential to significantly impact the City's scenic viewsheds. This is particularly true in areas of the study area which have been traditionally under or undeveloped, in the area north of Interstate 10 to the San Bernardino Mountains. Careful consideration of the character of this area is important to its future integration into the built environment of the City. The proposed General Plan includes a number of policies and programs, located in the Community Design Element, which ensure that the construction of all types of structures in the future will be sensitive to scenic viewsheds, surrounding development, and the City's character. The Plan either regulates development, or requires that the zoning ordinance and municipal code be amended to include standards for development. The northern portion of the study area is also particularly susceptible to the impacts associated with light and glare. Since this area is currently under -developed, night time lighting is limited, and generally consists primarily of car headlights and outdoor security lighting. As this area develops, the night time lighting levels are likely to increase, and change its visual character. The General Plan includes provisions for limited lighting, and policies and programs provided in the Community Design Element specifically require that outdoor lighting be sensitive to dark sky principles. The proposed General Plan Land Use Map designates the Santa Rosa Mountains as Open Space. This designation significantly restricts the potential for development. These measures will limit development to the valley floor and preserve the high visual quality of the Santa Rosa Mountains. 3. Mitigation Measures The following mitigation measures further assure that buildout of the General Plan will have limited impacts n the City's visual resources. III-155 Visual Resourees IN/City Draft General Piaui Ells Section III --- Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Meastires A. Overhead utility lines shall be undergrounded to the greatest extent possible through the establishment of an undergrounding program and guidelines. B. The City shall coordinate with utility providers, including but not limited to Southern California Edison, the Imperial Irrigation District, The Gas Company, and Verizon to assure that utility infrastructure, including water wells, substations, and switching/control facilities are effectively screened to preserve scenic viewsheds and limit visual clutter. C. Outdoor lighting shall be limited to the minimum height, number of fixtures, and intensity needed to provide sufficient security and identification in each development, making every reasonable effort to protect the community's night skies. D. Signage shall be limited to the locations, sizes, and maintenance requirements necessary to provide functional identification. E. Commercial and mixed use development projects shall incorporate safe, convenient vehicular and pedestrian circulation, screened outdoor storage/loading and other unsightly areas, protected and enhanced outdoor seating areas, appropriate lighting levels, limited signage, and landscaping designs that preserve and enhance visual resources. F. Commercial and mixed use development shall be designed with particular attention to limiting the lighting impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods. G. All grading and development proposed within scenic viewsheds, including hillsides, shall be regulated to minimize adverse impacts to these viewsheds. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City shall maintain and amend the Municipal Code as necessary to assure the design parameters to which public and private development projects must conform are clearly defined. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, Planning Commission, City Council. K. Public Services and Facilities Schools 1. Existing Conditions Public education services and facilities are provided to the General Plan study area by two school districts: Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) and Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD). DSUSD serves most of the developed portion of the study area, including lands south of Frank Sinatra Drive, and lands located north of Interstate-10 and east of Washington Street. The PSUSD district includes the remainder of the study area, including northwestern Palm Desert and the Thousand Palms and Sky Valley communities. Draft General plan EIP_ Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures 4 3. Mitigation Measures A. Developers will continue to be assessed the statutory school mitigation fees for residential and commercial development. B: In the event that developers in the planning area attempt to utilize Mello -Roos or other types of public facilities financing districts, both school districts shall be included in discussions to determine whether funding streams may be used for school facilities. The Districts have the following alternatives available to mitigate significant impacts to area schools: erov F. Greene State School Building Lease -Purchase Law - This act is an agreement between school districts and the state to provide for the construction, reconstruction, or replacement of school facilities by the State Allocation Board. First priority for future state funding will go to districts with 1) a substantial enrollment in year- round schools, 2) the ability to raise 50 percent of project costs, and 3) the opening of a new facility as a year-round school. Lease -Purchase Arrangements - Many districts may enter into lease -purchase arrangements with private builders of portable classrooms (Section 39240 and 39290 of the State Education Code). This method can also be used to finance capital outlay. An additional advantage of lease -purchase agreements is that they offer the benefits of long-term debt financing without obtaining voter approval of 0 special taxes or benefit assessments. Mello -Roos Community Facilities Act - Provisions for this funding option are located in Government Code Section 55311 et. seq. A school district must initiate proceedings to declare itself a community facilities district to benefit from this Act. A community facilities district is defined as a governmental entity established to carry out specific activities within specifically defined boundaries. Such a district may engage in the purchase, construction or rehabilitation of any real or tangible property with an estimated useful life of five years or longer. Mitigation Monitoringt Reporting Program A. The City of Palm Desert will consult and cooperate with the Desert Sands and Palm Springs Unified School Districts to continue to monitor public schools in the General Plan study area, and to determine the extent of overcrowding, security issues, low performance on standardized tests, and other adverse impacts on area schools. Responsible Parties: Community Development Department, City Council, Desert Sands Unified School District, Palm Springs Unified School District iiT_ I SQ Public Services and Facilities Library TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Conditions, Impacts andraft Mit gat onGeneral Plan � s Measure Libraries 1• Existing Conditions Palm Desert Pu lic ihrary The Palm Desert Public Library is a branch of the Riverside County Library System and is located at 73- 300 Fred Waring Drive. The library encompasses approximately 20,000 square feet of a 40,000 square foot facility, which it shares with the College of the Desert Library. Although their books and resources are physically separated, the two libraries have a reciprocity agreement and also share an online research database and checkout desk. The Palm Desert Public Library contains approximately 75,000 volumes and is staffed by five full-time employees, 15 part-time employees, and approximately 35 volunteers. The library operates a youth story -time program and adult computer classes, and supports the County- wide Literacy Program, which is managed from the Indio Public Library. The Palm Desert Public Library is a multi -agency facility, County Lirary System. Each year, approximately 2.7% of the City's 1 % property t x evenude eof thee sl pad to Riverside County for basic library operations and services. The City also allocates General Fund revenues to pay for additional library services, which are above and beyond those provided under the County contract. Specifically, these funds cover expenses for three additional hours of operation on Thursdays, a volunteer program and coordinator, special events programs, and a special events coordinator. College of the ecPrt T ihrAr., The College of the Desert (COD) opened its on -campus library concurrent with the of community library in January, aforementioned ary, 1996. As described above, the library shares a building and reciprocity agreement with the Palm Desert Public Library. All library services are available to COD students and the general public. The COD Library contains more than 50,000 volumes. Other features include a computer lab, local history room, children's story room, community meeting room and seminar rooms. The City is responsible for funding a portion of ongoing maintenance and structural improvements to the library. Thou sand The Thousand Palms Branch of the Riverside County Library library is staffed by one full-time branch manager, two p lstime emp oyees,located at5 and ei La CanaWay. volu t e se Special community programs include children's story -time, crafts and reading clubs. The County and residents of Thousand Palms are raising funds and applying for grants with hope of constructinga permanent library facility in about 2005 or 2006. The new facility would be located on a donated parcel of land on Robert Road. 2• Project Impacts The County of Riverside seeks to maintain an unadopted standard of 2 volumes and 0.5 square feet of 1' library space per capita. s Buildout of the General Plan is anticipated to generate approximately 148,387 5 Gary Christmas, Riverside County Librarian, personal communication March, 2000. III-160 1 Public Services and Facilities Police TN/City of Palm Desert Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts a Draft General Plan EI easures LW residents6. Based on this projected population and the County's unadopted level of service standards, the General Plan study area will require about 74,194 square feet of library space and about 296,774 volumes at buildout. It should be noted that, General Plan buildout population is dependent upon actual levels of development in the General Plan study area. 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City and Count shall Y continue to monitor and evaluate the existing usage rate and level of services provided at the libraries in the General Plan study area to determine the need for additional services and facilities. fees necessary to provide adequate library services. B. The City shall consult and coordinate with Riverside County to determine appropriate mitigation Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Cit y and County shall continue to monitor library needs and utilization to provide essential library services to the residents of the General Plan study area. Responsible Parties: City Manage, County Librarian r Police Protection 1• Existing Conditions The City of Palm Desert contracts with the Riverside County Sheriff' protection services. The City Police Department operates out of the Palm Desert)Sta on located at1ce 73-520 Fred Waring Drive. The Palm Desert Station also functions as the Sheriff's base of operations for the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells, and unincorporated County lands west of Washington Street, including the Thousand Palms and Sky Valley communities. Lands east of Washington Street, including the Bermuda Dunes community, are served by staff based at the Indio Station of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department. Police protection services are provided to the City on a 24-hour daily basis. The Palm Desert police force comprises a total of 70 sworn officers and provides about 1.75 sworn officers for every 1,000 residents, which is comparable to the regional average and provides an effective level of police protection. The average response time for the highest priority emergency calls (code 1) is 4.6 minutes. 2• Project Impacts Adoption and implementation of the proposed General Plan could potentially generate a buildout Population of approximately 148,387 residents.' The proposed General Plan intends to provide a police - staffing ratio of at least 1.5 sworn officers per 1,000 residents. In order to meet this preferred ratio at G Based on exiting and potential new dwelling units associated with proposed General Plan buildout, and 2.43 persons r household, added to the existing City population of 43,917 and Planning area population of 22,756. p pe Ibid. 111-161 Public Services and Facilities Fire 0 TN/City of Palm Desert Section III -Existing Draft Plan EIR NNE Conditions, Impacts a dMitigation Mon.. res Proposed Fire Stations The City has begun setting aside funds for a new fire station to be constructed in the vicinity of Cook Street and Interstate-10. The station will provide additional fire protection coverage to development in this vicinity, including the Coachella Valley Campus of California State University, San Bernardino (CSUSB). It is anticipated that the station would be constructed within the next five years, however the actual construction schedule will depend upon future levels of development. Fire Marshall Services One of the most important services provided by the Fire Department to the City is that of th Marshal, who is responsible for providinga Fire and internal circulation for fire and other emergency vehicles, serthe need for sprinklers ices for adequate and access, building siting flows from hydrants, and other design issues associated with fire protect on. The Fire minimum fire also coordinates department fire inspectors, who inspect each commercial building in the City at le sit once ar each year. The Fire Marshal and inspection staff are provided office space at Station 50 in Rancho Mirage and serve the three contract cities. 2• Project Impacts Continued development and population growth in the General Plan study area is anticipated to increase demand for fire protection services. Additional fire protection services will include increase in staffing, firefighters, fire stations, fire trucks, and rescue vehicles. Increased demand for fire protection services associated with development in rural areas of the General Plan study area will also involve expansion of water mains and the provision of new fire hydrants. Additional fire protection services could result in significant costs to the City. As with police department costs, increases in property and sales tax revenues will provide funding sources for increased service. As the General Plan study area builds out, it will be necessary to evaluate these impacts to fire protection services. 3• Mitigation Measures A. The City shall continue to promote close coordination with the Fire Department for the timely r expansion of services and facilities. B. The Fire Department shall continue to maintain mutual aid agreements with the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells for additional fire protection support. C. The Fire Department shall continue to review new development proposals and assess the Department's capacity to provide sufficient fire protection services. This shall include, but is not limited to, review of internal circulation patterns, street names and numbering systems. D. The City and the Fire Department shall continue to enforce fire codes and other applicable standards and regulations during review of building plans and conducting building inspections. III-165 Fire TN/City of Palin Desea Draft General Plan EIP Section III -- Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures E. The siting of industrial facilities which involve storage of hazardous, flammable or explosive materials shall be conducted in a manner that will ensure the highest level of safety in strict conformance with the Uniform Fire Code and other applicable regulations. F. Coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company to assure adequate water supplies and pressure for existing and proposed development. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Riverside County Fire Department shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with all applicable fire protection requirements. Responsible Parties: Riverside County Fire Department Health Care Facilities and Services 1. Existing Conditions In addition to a number of local physicians' offices and urgent care facilities, several large health care facilities are located in the vicinity of the General Plan study area. A discussion of major health care facilities is provided below. The Eisenhower Medical Center on Bob Hope Drive in Rancho Mirage is the closest medical facility to the subject property. The medical center complex encompasses 98t acres consisting of several facilities, which include the Eisenhower Medical Center, the Annenberg Center for World Health Sciences, the Betty Ford Center for Chemical Dependency, the Dolores Hope Outpatient Care Center and the Barbara Sinatra Children's Center. The medical center currently has 261 beds, an intensive care unit and emergency room. The complex also includes the Community Blood Bank and other office and research buildings. The Andrew Allen Surgical Pavilion is a state-of-the-art medical surgical facility with ten operating rooms. Desert Regional Medical Center is located at 1150 N. Indian Avenue in Palm Springs. It is a private, non-profit hospital that is licensed for 388 beds and has a 24-hour emergency room and Level II Trauma Care facility. The hospital has a Home Health Care department that provides in -home nursing care and household maintenance services. It also includes the Hospice of the Desert Communities, which offers services for the terminally ill. The Comprehensive Cancer Center of the Desert is a department of the Desert Regional Medical Center, which provides services to cancer -diagnosed individuals. John F. Kennedy Memorial Hospital islocated at 47-111 Monroe Street in Indio. In addition to the many medical and health services offered at JFK, a 24-hour emergency room and a wide variety of inpatient and outpatient services are also available. The hospital, with its recent building addition, is currently licensed for 162 beds and includes 16 beds in the ICU unit and 24 beds in the medical/surgical unit. Public Services and Facilities Health care TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Draft General Plan EIR Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation onMeasures 2• Project Impacts Builout of the proposed General Plan is not expected to have any significant adverse impacts on the medical facilities in the area. As independent facilities, Valley hospitals will continue to plan for growth in order to accommodate population increases associated with the implementation of the proposed General Plan. It is expected that all three of the Valley hospitals will expand as needs are identified and that regional health care facilities will be able to adequately service the future population. 3• Mitigation Measures Regional and local medical he alth care facilities will continue to plan for growth, and therefore no mitigation measures are necessary. Solid Waste Management g ment 1• Existing Conditions Solid waste collection and disposal services are provided by Waste Management of the Desert through an exclusive franchise agreement with the City of Palm Desert. Waste Management also serves the Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes and Sky Valley communities, which are within the General Plan stud area. Commercial pick-up is offered up to six days per week, and residential pick-up is typically once per week. Waste Management offers additional services to large waste generators, including restaurants, retailers, hotels and resorts. Trash collected in the City and planning area is disposed at the Edom Hill Landfill, approximately four miles northwest of.the Palm Desert city limits. The landfill is owned and operated by Riverside Count and accepts waste from most Coachella Valley communities. The current operating g permit allows y P for a maximum of 2,651 tons of waste per day. During 2000, the landfill received an average of 1,295 tons per day. In March 2000, the remaining capacity of the landfill was approximately 4.5 million cubic yards. The landfill is nearing its maximum capacity and is expected to close in 2004. The City of Palm Desert and other Coachella Valley communities are actively planning for and selecting viable alternative landfill sites. Alternatives considered include Eagle Mountain Landfill, Mesquite Landfill, Badlands Landfill, Lamb Canyon and the El Sobrante Landfills. In 1997, the Riverside County Board of Supervisors approved the Eagle Mountain Land Recycling Center. The landfill will encompass'2,164 acres and a total capacity of 708 million t fill and a life expectancy of 100 years. Litigation has delayed construction of the Eagle Mountain Landfill tons with Recycling Center, therefore, the City must continue to pursue other options for the immediate 11 and future. The Mesquite Landfill in Imperial County is also being purchased by the Los Angeles Count District and is expected to have a capacity similar to that of the Eagle Mountainy Sanitation construction is also being delayed by litigation, and the future of both these landfills remains unclear. Its III-167 Public Services and Facilities Wastewater `17N/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III - Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department shall maintain close contact with project developers to assure the provision and maintenance of recycling containers that correspond with current City programs and those planned in the future. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Waste Management of the Desert Wastewater Collection and Treatment 1. Existing Conditions Wastewater collection and treatment services are provided by the Coachella Valley Water District to the ' City of Palm Desert, and majority of the General Plan study area. Wastewater is transmitted through sewer trunk lines generally ranging in size from 4 to 24 inches, relying primarily on gravity flow. Effluent from the City is conveyed to CVWD's Cook Street treatment plant (Water Reclamation Plant j No. 10), which has a current capacity of 18 million gallons per day. Effluent from Bermuda Dunes, Del Webb's Sun City and other development north of Miles Avenue is conveyed to the treatment plant located at Madison Street and Avenue 38 (Water Reclamation Plant No. 7). This plant treats approximately 2.4 million gallons of wastewater per day, and has a capacity of 5 million gallons per day. CVWD continually increases the capacity of its plants by constructing new treatment ponds, aeration plants and other structures. While much of the General Plan study area is connected to CVWD's sewer system, several areas still j rely on septic systems for wastewater disposal. These areas include Sky Valley and scattered residential '■ development in the Thousand Palms area. Wastewater contains contaminants, such as nitrogen, bacteria and organic chemicals that have the potential to degrade the quality of groundwater and render it unsuitable for human consumption. The long-term use of septic tanks has been associated with contamination of groundwater supplies in limited areas of the Coachella Valley. In 1994, the City adopted Chapter 8.60 of the Municipal Code, an ordinance which requires all properties, buildings and structures to abandon existing septic tanks, seepage pits and/or cesspools and to connect to the available public sewer system prior to the sale or transfer of ownership. The sewer connection ordinance also establishes a certificate of compliance process to document abandoning of the on -lot system and connection to the community sewer system. Tertiary Treated Water In an effort to alleviate the impacts of development on groundwater supplies, CVWD has implemented the use of tertiary (third stage) treated wastewater for use in golf course, landscape and other irrigation. Wastewater is typically treated to secondary levels and reintroduced into the groundwater table through percolation ponds, with passage through sands and soils providing a final stage of filtration. Tertiary treated water undergoes an additional stage of treatment, making it immediately suitable for irrigation purposes and decreasing, to some extent, the demand for groundwater resources. L7 III-170 I Public Services and Facilities Wastewater TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing Draft General Plan EIR Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation onMeasures The Cook Street wastewater treatment plant has a tertiary water capacity of 15 million all (mgd). The Cook Street plant generates from 1.2 to 7.8 mgd of tertiary treated water, wi the per day being approximately 4.4 mgd. The treatment plant at Madison Street and Avenue 38 generates the average g ntes from 0.8 to 2.5 mgd of tertiary treated water, and has a maximum current capacity of 2.5. This plant ' for expansion to treat 5 mgd within the next few years. P is Planned 2• Project Impacts Buildout of the proposed General Plan will result in an increased demand on exists collection and treatment facilities. Domestic wastewater flows average a existing wastewater day-9 Based on this factor and the estimated Buildout population of 148,387 residents, the per capita per study area has the potential to generate approximately 14,838,700 gallons of wastewater per d ,the General Plan wastewater generation rates will be dependent upon future levels of development. P day. Actual The increase in demand for wastewater collection and treatment services at G represent a potential significant increase over the current level eneral Plan Buildout may the General Plan study area is anticipated to occur gradually, thereforerit is sa However, Buildout of increase in demand to wastewater collection and treatment services will not be experienced safe to assume that the Nonetheless, it is necessary that the City and the Coachella Valley Water District continueat one time. growth trends in the General Plan study area to assure that wastewater services are adequate, to monitor to determine the need and funding for additional facilities. q , as well as 3• Mitigation Measures A. All development shall be connects d to possible. Septic systems shall be prohibited tw ere soilhe s conditions de sewersystem, do not perto the greatest extent mit percolation. B The City shall investigate and evaluate alternative methods of financing a city-wide s system and converting existing septic systems to sewer, including redevelopmentfunds, assessments and other funding mechanisms. C. The City shall cooperate and coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water adequate wastewater collection and treatment facilities ate rovid d t District to assure that General Plan study area. P o serve development in the D. The City shall coordinate with Coachella Valley Water District the tertiary treated water within the General Plan study area, dhall nest ga e,easibility of the f errand for providing tertiary treated water as demand warrants, 9 "Environmental Impact Analysis Handbook," prepared by John G. Rau and David C. Wooten, 1980. III- l 71 Public Services and Fa.�Atlitieo Wastewater ` TJ/O�ts, oi'Palm %esen Draft General Plan EII ti Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The City Community Development Department and Public Works shall confer and coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District to develop plans for implementing citywide sewer service. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, City Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Water District Domestic Water Services 1. Existing Conditions Coachella Valley Water District The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) provides domestic water services to the majority of the City of Palm Desert, including Thousand Palms, and Del Webb's Sun City. CVWD utilizes deep wells to extract groundwater from the Whitewater River Subbasin. CVWD's domestic water system, which serves the City, includes 50 wells with an average depth of 900 feet. CVWD also has a total of 27 reservoirs serving the General Plan study area, with an average capacity of 1.8 million gallons. Some of these reservoirs may also serve pressure zones which extend beyond the study area. The largest (i.e., main or trunk) water lines are generally located along section lines, with smaller lines branching into individual sections. The Coachella Valley Water District also provides domestic water services to the Sky Valley community, in the northern portion of the General Plan planning area. Due to high concentrations of undesirable minerals, CVWD does not extract water for domestic use from the Desert Hot Springs Subbasin, which underlies the community of Sky Valley. Rather, water delivery infrastructure in this area includes main lines that transmit water from CVWD wells located in the Mission Creek Subbasin west of Palm Drive. Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company The Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company provides domestic water services to the Bermuda Dunes community, except for development along Washington Street, which is served by CVWD. Its five active wells, drilled to depths of 750 to 800 feet, can each produce 1,700 to 3,200 gallons of potable water per ' minute. Three of the production wells discharge water directly into the water distribution system, which conveys water through distribution water mains ranging in size from 4 to 12 inches in diameter. The two other wells deliver water directly into a water reservoir near the intersection of 41" Avenue and Hermitage Drive. The reservoir has a capacity of one million gallons. Myoma Dunes operates a sixth well, which is used solely by the Bermuda Dunes Airport and is not connected to the water delivery system. 2. Project Impacts Continued increases in water demand generated by development in the Coachella Valley, including the General Plan study area, could have significant cumulative impacts on the region's groundwater supply. The Coachella Valley Water District has developed water usage factors for a variety of land uses, based Public Services and Facilities Domestic Water TN/City of Palm Desert Section III —Existing ConditiImpacts drMitigat onaft lMeasurePlan s ons, on usage per acre. Table III-46 illustrates these factors, and the associated acreages within the General Plan study area. OR Table III.46 General Plan Buildout Water Consum tion Annual Consumption Total Annual Develo men t T Factor (ac- Consumptio oIf Course Developments and Large ft/ac/ r Acres (ac- ft/ r) esidential Lots C 0.5 ac) artments and Condominiums 7.36 24,504 180,349 esidential (Lots < 0.5 ac) 6.36 3,795 240136 otels and Motels 6.09 14,698 89,511 usiness Offices 8.76 329 21 5.85 882 Gasoline Stations 5.12 919 5,376 Su ermarket Sho in Centers. blic Schools 4.81 186 895 Retail ShOPPing Areas 4.3 521 2,261 ndustrial Parks & Auto Dealers 3.05 1,454 4,435 Total 2.47 1,100 2,717 47,506 312,562 According to CVWD's usage factors, the buildout of the General Plan will result in usage acre feet of water annually. This analysis assumes maximum buildout of all land uses, and fore of 312,562 eforeis ther expected to be conservative. It should be noted that increases in water consumption will occur gradually, over the life of the General Plan study area. Actual impacts to domestic water services are dependent upon the levels and types of development that will occur in the General Plan study area. Section III-E provides a comprehensive discussion regarding impacts to the General Plan study area. P water resources and quality in 3• Mitigation Measures A. All future development projects shall be reviewed by the City, Coachella or Myoma Dunes Mutual -Water Comp an t Valley Water District activities on local groundwater resources.y °evaluate potential impacts of development B. The City shall require the development of on -site stormwater retention/detention basins to enhance infiltration of runoff and the replenishment of groundwater subbasins. C. The City, Coachella Valley Water District, and Myoma Dunes Mutual Water encourage the use of drought tolerant landscaping in public and private develop development a means of water conservation. All development plans shall be required to adhere to the Cit 's ordinance. y landscape 111-173 Draft General Plan Effi Section ill — Existing Conditions, Inipacts and Mitigation Measure D. The City shall encourage and/or require the installation of low -flush toilets, low -flow showerheads and faucets in all new construction, in conformance with Section 17921.3 of the Health and Safety Code, Title 20, California Administrative Code Section 1601(b), and applicable sections of Title 24 of the State Code. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Community Development Department shall review all development proposals to assess the potential for adverse effects on water quality and quantity. All development proposals shall be required to mitigate any significant impacts. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes MutualWater Company, Developers Electricity 1. Existing Conditions Southern California Edison I Southern California Edison (SCE) provides electricity to the majority of the Palm Desert General Plan study area. Its service area includes most of the City of Palm Desert, excluding a portion of the California State University/San Bernardino (CSSB) Coachella Valley Campus site, Avondale Country Club and other limited areas south of US Interstate-10 (see Imperial Irrigation District discussion below), and lands west of Ford Avenue in Sky Valley. SCE's electric power is primarily generated outside the Coachella Valley, however, it does purchase wind -generated power from local producers. SCE's facilities include high -voltage transmission lines, which range up to 115 kilovolts (kv) in the City of Palm Desert and up to 500 kv in the northern portion of the General Plan planning area. Lower - voltage distribution lines, which are typically gauged at about 12 kv in the study area, provide electricity to individual residences and other users. Three substations are located within the City of Palm Desert and are used to step down voltage for local distribution. The substations- include: 1) Silver Spur Substation, located south of Haystack Road and west of Portola Avenue; 2) Palm Village Substation, located south of Highway I I I and east of Deep Canyon Road; and 3) Concho Substation, located south of Country Club Drive and east of Cook Street, near the Indian Ridge Country Club. In addition, some circuits from the Santa Rosa Substation, located west of Monterey Avenue and north of Clancy Lane in Rancho Mirage, feed into the City of Palm Desert. Imperial Irrigation District Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is a non-profit, community -owned utility district that serves customers in Imperial County and parts of Riverside and San Diego counties. IID provides electric service to a limited portion of the Palm Desert General Plan study area, including the Avondale Country Club, most of the CSSB Coachella Valley Campus, Sun City, Thousand Palms, Bermuda Dunes and the eastern portion of Sky Valley. IID obtains its power from a combination of hydroelectric, thermal, diesel, and 111-174 Public Rua E1ra- ViA' u_Y T'N/C'iq, of,Palna 4.Joc-'sea Draft ;enteral Plata Ell&:. Section III — E isting Londitims, Impacts and Mitigatiota Measiwb, 3. Mitigation Measures A. Developers shall coordinate and cooperate with Southern California Edison .and Imperial Irrigation District in implementing load management programs which level the demand load on generating capacities. Every effort shall be made to assure the highest level of energy conservation available. B. Any proposed development in the General Plan study area shall be subject to the requirements of the Uniform Building Code and Title 24 of the California Administrative Code. C. Project developers shall be required to utilize energy efficient design to minimize summer time solar gains and reduce air conditioning loads. D. The use of energy efficient lighting fixtures in developments within the General Plan study area shall be required. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Community Development Department, Public Works Department, and Building Department shall inspect all detailed project plans for conformance with Title 24 energy conservation code requirements. Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District and the City Community Development Department shall provide developers with rdferences for energy efficient design. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Public Works Department, Building Department, Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District B. Prior to the undergrounding of utility lines, all affected utility companies shall be contacted for detailed information about system restrictions, district boundaries, and scheduling. Responsible Parties: Southern California Edison, Imperial Irrigation District, Verizon California, The Gas Company, Coachella Valley Water District, Myoma Dunes Mutual Water Company Natural Gas 1. Existing Conditions The Southern California Gas (SCG) Company provides natural gas services and facilities to the City of Palm Desert and its General Plan study area. Locally used natural gas originates in Texas and is transported to the Coachella Valley via three east -west trending high pressure gas transmission lines, which cross the valley just north of Interstate-10 and continue west to Los Angeles. The lines include one 30-inch line and two 24-inch lines, with pressures of 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi). Within the General Plan study area, high pressure gas lines are located beneath Washington Street, Highway 111, Sierra del Sol (serving Thousand Palms), and Dillon Road (serving Sky Valley). These are typically steel lines with pressures of 300 psi. The Washington Street and Sierra del Sol lines tap directly into the major transmission lines north of I-10. Medium pressure distribution lines are located Public Services and Facilities Natural Gas TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III -- Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures within the rights -of -way of Country Club Drive, Fred Waring Drive, Monterey Avenue, Cook Street, and Highway 74. These lines range from 38 to 42 psi, and are typically constructed of 4-inch plastic, although older lines may be made of steel. Although most of the City of Palm Desert is connected to the natural gas system, lands west of the Palm Valley Stormwater Channel, parallel to Highway 74, are not served. Residents in this area use propane gas as an alternative fuel source. The Gas Company estimates the average household in its service area consumes 6,600 cubic feet of natural gas per month. Table III-48 illustrates natural gas consumption factors established by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). Table III-48 Natural Gas Consumption Factors Land Use Monthly Consumption Rate Single Family Residential 6,665.0 cf/unit/month Multiple Family Residential 4,011.5 cf/sq.ft./month Retail/Shopping Center 2.9 cf/ sq.ft /month Office 2.0 cf/ sq.ft /month Hotel/Motel 4.8 cf/ sq.ft /month Industrial 4.8 cf/ sq.ft /month Note: Industrial usage factor used is equivalent to the highest commercial usage factor provided by SCAQMD. Source: SCAQMD Air Quality Handbook, Appendix to Chapter 9, April 1993 2. Project Impacts An increase in demand for natural gas services is anticipated as the General Plan study area builds out. Natural gas consumption is estimated at 614,046,131 cubic feet per month at General Plan buildout. This figure represents both existing and future developments in the General Plan study area, and assumes buildout at moderate densities. Actual natural gas consumption will be determined by future levels of development, individual project designs, and the effectiveness of energy -conserving measures. Development facilitated by the proposed General Plan will increase the rate of consumption of this non- renewable source and will contribute to cumulative impacts on the long-term availability of natural gas. However, General Plan buildout, in and of itself, is not expected to significantly impact natural gas supplies or the provider's ability to deliver it. 3. Mitigation Measures A. The City shall strictly enforce Title 24 of the California Administrative Code, which addresses energy conservation in new developments. B. Developers shall install the most efficient furnaces, water heaters, pool heaters and other equipment that use natural gas. Developers shall also encourage the use of kitchen appliances III-177 'I.1'4AA(y of P lm# beseat braft 60110ral Halt Eft, Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures that utilize natural gas and shall investigate the possibility of using alternative energy, sources, including solar and co -generation technologies. Mitigation Monitoring/Reporting Program A. The Community Development and Public Works Department shall inspect all detailed project plans to assure conformance with Title 24 energy conservation code requirements. The Community Development Department shall coordinate with The Gas Company to provide developers with references for energy efficient design. Responsible Parties: City Community Development Department, Public Works Department, The Gas Company Telephone Service 1. Existing Conditions Verizon California provides local residential and business telephone services to the General Plan study area. The Verizon California headquarter is in Thousand Oaks, however local customer service facilities are located in the cities of Palm Springs and Indio. Verizon services include a variety of basic and special features, including local and long distance services, calling cards, business 800 numbers, and voicemail, as well as state-of-the-art data services such as internet and high-speed DSL connections. The General Plan study area includes three central switching offices, which function as the backbone of the communications system and are responsible for the connection of telephone and data transmissions. Central offices are located in Palm Desert, on the north side of Highway 111, between San Jose and San Juan Avenues; in Bermuda Dunes, on the east side of Washington Street at Avenue of the States; and in Thousand Palms, on the west side of Arbol Real, between La Canada Way and Ramon Road. Calls to the Sky Valley area are handled out of a central switching office in Desert Hot Springs. 2. Project Impacts Growth facilitated by the proposed General Plan will generate additional demands on existing infrastructure and will require the expansion of telephone services to areas not currently served. However, no significant impacts are anticipated with the implementation of the proposed General Plan that will affect the ability of Verizon, California to provide telecommunication services in the General Plan study area. 3. Mitigation Measures A. Developers shall provide required right-of-way for new Verizon conduit systems to provide telephone services to their sites. Socio®Economic Resources Mitigation Measures TN/City of Palm Desert Draft General Plan EIR Section III ® Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures persons are likely to purchase their homes, and will occupy units built on lands designated Low Density residential, which will generate an additional 24,905 units in the City, and 14,261 units in the Sphere and planning area. '■� In comparison with the Current General Plan, which has the potential to generate 9,663 medium and high density units within the City limits, and 15,570 medium and high density units in the Sphere and planning area, the Preferred Alternative land use plan represents an increase of 47% in the potential for the City to house its employees in the Medium and High Density Residential land use categories alone. 3. Mitigation Measures The Draft General Plan includes a number of policies which will serve to guide the City's economic health in the next several years. The City's aggressive economic development policy will continue to facilitate the creation of jobs and associated revenues. A. The City shall monitor the employment generated by its commercial and industrial land uses, and periodically analyse this generation in comparison to the residential land use allocations to encourage the provision of adequate housing for as many of its workers as practical. B . The City shall evaluate new development or redevelopment to assure that these uses complement, support and are compatible with the City's core economic assets. C. The City shall consider economic implications of annexations as part of the approval process for annexation requests. D. The City shall continue to encourage the development of hotels, resort hotels and timeshare projects in the City. E. The City shall continue to encourage the development of new and expanded educational facilities of all levels in the City. F. The City shall be aggressive in its retention of existing businesses and recruitment of new businesses that complement the City's core economic assets. G . The City shall coordinate its Capital Improvement plans to assure the provision of adequate infrastructure to support and facilitate development of commercial and light industrial projects which expand the City's economic base. H. All projects shall contribute their fair share of on- and off -site improvements required to support their site. I• The City shall routinely review and revise, as necessary, the allocation of revenues required to mitigate the impacts of growth. III-203 :.4aa A�il:w"a e� f ICtty of Palm Desea Draft General Plan EIII _ Section III — Existing Conditions, Impacts and Mitigation Measures J. Prior to any annexation effort, the City shall evaluate the feasibility of annexing land to assure its economic and fiscal viability. K. The City Zoning Ordinance and Development Code shall be updated, revised and expanded to assure analysis regimes and standards and guidelines that assure adequate protection of the City's core economic interests and especially the preservation of the natural environment. Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program A. The City shall continue to monitor economic growth and focus its Economic Development efforts in areas of retail, resort and educational services. Responsible Parties: City Council, Redevelopment Agency, City Manager. B. The City shall analyse land use development patterns annually, and determine whether amendments to the land use map are required to encourage a balance of housing and jobs. Responsible Parties: City Council, Community Development Department C. The City shall prepare economic feasibility analyses for all potential annexation efforts, as part of the decision -making process for annexations. I Responsible Parties: City Council, City Manager, Community Development Department. III-204 FIWM1 1 [v EXHIBIT "B" MITIGATION, MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN [see attached] P6401\1033\921581v1 $_ 1 Environmental Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program for Section 29 Master Plan of Infrastructure, Assessment District 2004-02 AUTHORITY This Environmental Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program has been prepared pursuant to Section 21081.6 of the California Environmental Quality Act, known as CEQA (Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.), to provide for the monitoring of mitigation measures required of the University Park CFD 2005-1 Project, as set forth in the Mitigated Negative Declaration prepared for the project. This report will be kept on file in the offices of the City of Palm Desert, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California 92260. MONITORING SCHEDULE Prior to the issuance of permits, while detailed development plans are being prepared for approval by City staff, City staff will be responsible for ensuring compliance with mitigation monitoring applicable to the project design phase. City staff will prepare or cause to be prepared reports identifying compliance with mitigation measures. Once construction has begun .and is underway, monitoring of the mitigation measures associated with construction will be included in the responsibilities of designated City staff, who shall prepare or cause to be prepared reports of such monitoring periodically until construction has been completed. Once construction has been completed, the City will monitor the project as appropriate and provided in the monitoring plan. FORMAT OF MITIGATION MONITORING MATRIX The mitigation monitoring matrix on the following pages identifies the environmental issue areas for which monitoring is required, the required mitigation measures, the time frame for monitoring, and the responsible monitoring agencies. 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O am�o 'a C m = O� _ v — o .i N s 'p ° 0 O N a C .i m > a ;! o OW 41 N -C m m C a o. m O L Ci-a m e _.. o ° 3 N N= '. •.i N � c = o u .Q C p� i O C.� O m e a o ,°„ c e a O n, v a e 'w L. L.- e a °ua•c-a3 C IL IL a IL t axi o 'A'_ sm..Q c o yo��pa> p a =._ = 0 >° a► a e E O 2 a os,°Ly° a�mN='c a ° 0) a 0 _ = v =a e CL > L V .i O C t w cC3'a�a a o Z = C9 �° ° N It kn 00 N o_ 0 a Express USAAirbill Trekg 0771,�,49980 Number 1 From Plaasapentandp—hard. Sender's FedEx Date 0 8/ 2 5/ 0 6 Account Number 121484048 - Sars Name Philip Drell Phone(760) 346— Company City of Palm Desert Address 73-510 Fred Waring Drive oepUFl— S,ateRoom cityPalm Desert state CA ZIP 92260 2 Your Internal Billing Reference First24 characters will appear on hoince. 3 To Recipients Name State of CA Clearinahpl&We 1 Office of Planning & Research Address 1400 Tenth Street, Room 209/212 To 'HOLD' at FedEx location, prim FedEx address. We cannot dower to P.O. boxes or P.O. ZIP codes. 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Riverside County Planning Department Region R6, Environ. Services Div. 82-675 Highway 111, Room 209 4665 Lampson Avenue, Suite J Indio, CA 92201 Los Alamitos, CA 90720 13. SCAQMD 2. CA Regional Water Quality Control Energy & Environment Section Board/Colorado River Basin 21865 E. Copley Drive Region 7 Diamond Bar, CA 91765 73-720 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 14. So. California Association of Governments Environmental Review Section 3. City of Rancho Mirage 818 W. 7th Street, 12th Floor Community Development Dept. Los Angeles, CA 90017 69-825 Highway 111 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270 15. Southern California Edison Attn: Frank Jasso 4. Coachella Valley Mosquito 36100 Cathedral Canyon Drive Abatement District Cathedral City, CA 92234 43-420 Trader Place Indio, CA 92210 16. Southern California Gas Company 1981 W. Lugonia Avenue 5. Coachella Valley Recreation & Park Redlands, CA 92353 District 45-305 Oasis Street 17. State of California Clearinghouse Indio, CA 92201 Office of Planning & Research 1400 Tenth Street, Room 209/212 6. Coachella Valley Water District Sacramento, CA 95814 P.O. Box 1058 Coachella, CA 92236 18. Sunline Transit Agency Attn: Eunice Lovi 7. CVAG 32-505 Harry Oliver Trail 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 200 Thousand Palms, CA 92276 Palm Desert, CA 92260 19. Time Warner Cable 8. Department of Transportation Attn: Regina Mata District 8 75181 Mediterranean 464 West 4th Street, 6th Floor Palm Desert, CA 92211 San Bernardino, CA 92401-1400 20. Union Pacific Railroad 9. FEMA Administrator 45--050 Pacific Street 1111 Broadway, Suite 1200 Indio, CA 92201 Oakland, CA 94607 21. Verizon California 10. Palm Springs Unified School District 45-590 Jackson Street 333 S. Farrell Drive Indio, CA 92201 Palm Springs, CA 92262 22. Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services 11. Riverside County Clerk/Recorder 41-575 Eclectic Street P.O. Box 751 Palm Desert, CA 92260 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 23. William Strausz 355 S. Grand Avenue, 40th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90071 REQUEST FOR COMMENT MAILING LABELS INDEX E A Eisenhower Medical Center Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians Environmental Impact Assessment B F FEMA Administrator C CA Building Industry Association H CA. Dept. of Fish & Game, Region R6 CA. Dept. of Fish & Game, Habitat Cons. CA. Dept. of Transp., Dist. 7 EIR Rev. CA. Regional Water Control Board Reg. 7 Imperial Irrigation District Cahuilla Band of Indians Center for Biological Diversity Center for Natural Lands Mgmt. City of Indian Wells Joshua Tree National Park City of Indio City of La Quinta City of Rancho Mirage K Coachella Valley Mosquito Abatement Dist Coachella Valley Rec. & Park District Coachella Valley Water District L College of the Desert CVAG M D Dep. of Transp. District 8 1' N Dep. of Transp. Office of Local Assistance D.S. U.S.D. O Qo„ �o +• i i is r�ionnr, 1 P V Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce Verizon California Palm Desert Fire Department Palm Desert Historical Society Palm Springs Cemetery District W Palm Springs Unified School District . Waste Management PSUSD Facilities Planning & Dev. Q R Request for comments and conditions of approval Riverside County Clerk/Recorder RC Economic Development. Agency RC Library Palm Desert Branch Riverside County Planning Dept. RC Waste Resources Mgtm. District S SCAQMD Sky Valley Homeowners' Association So. CA. Association of Gov'ts. So. CA Edison So. CA Gas Company State of CA Clearinghouse Sun Line Transit Agency Supervisor Roy Wilson T Time Warner Cable Thousand Palms Community Council U Union Pacific Railroad United States Postal Service U.S. Army Corps. of Engineers US Fish and Wildlife Service ERD Qo„icofi• 1 1 i1 rionnr. 1)