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Home My WebLink AboutOrd 1159 and Res 08-62 and 08-63 GP, C/Z & PP/CUP 08-10 Agency & County of Riverside ��. �3,;.� �:�. � � �: .�...,....�..,.��...��..�� .i..i� ' �.V �_._.�S ErE� !��s�s r"'�'g:"j�.-m.>...nm.«-..n�..�.,.r,�a,,.......�.._-. CITY OF PALM DES T��y,;,� ,�, �,�� -�;;�� „_7_��:.�� DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY D ` �� STAFF REPORT REQUEST: Consideration for approval of: A. A General Plan Amendment from Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) to Public/Quasi-Public Facilities (PF); and B. A Change of Zone from Planned Residential-5 (P.R.-5) to Public Institution (P); and C. A Precise Plan of Design and a Conditional Use Permit to allow the construction and operation of a new 85,496 square foot Riverside County Sheriff Station with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad for emergency purposes. The project site is located on south side of Gerald Ford Drive, east of Monterey Avenue and west of Portola Avenue. The site includes a 10- acre portion of Assessor's Parcel Number 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald Ford Drive; and D. Adoption of Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates to the project, pursuant to Section 15074 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). SUBMITTED BY: Tony Bagato Principal Planner APPLICANT: Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 County of Riverside - Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 CASE NOS: GPA, C/Z, and PP/CUP 08-10 DATE: May 20, 2008 CONTENTS: Recommendation Executive Summary Discussion Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 2 of 9 Draft Resolution No. oa-�2, Exhibit A, General Plan Amendment Draft Ordinance No. ��59 , Exhibit A, Change of Zone Draft Resolution No. os-63 Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact Legal Notice Draft Initial Study Planning Commission Minutes, dated February 20, 2007 Planning Commission Resolution 2475 Comments from other departments Plans and Exhibits Recommendation: That the City Council, waiver further reading and: 1. Adopt Resolution No. O8_62 approving a General Plan Amendment from Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) to Public/Quasi-Public Facilities (PF). 2. Pass Ordinance No. Z�s9 to second reading approving a Change of Zone from Planned Residential-5 (P.R.-5) to Public Institution (P). 3. Adopt Resolution No. 0$-63 approving Precise Plan / Conditional Use Permit 08-10 and a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates to the project thereto. Executive SummarY: Approval of staff's recommendation will approve a General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit to allow the construction of a new 85,496 square foot Riverside County Sheriff Station on Gerald Ford Drive. Approval of the project includes a Draft Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact. The project has been reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission, Landscape Beautification Committee and the Architectural Review Commission. The Riverside Caunty staff has worked diligently with City staff to make sure the proposed project is compatible with the surrounding neighborhood and provides all the services and needs required by the Sheriff's Office. The proposed site plan supports the proposed use and the building design will provide a high quality, LEED-Certified Sheriff Station that will serve our community and surrounding jurisdictions. Staff has received a letter of support for the project from the City of Rancho Mirage and has not received any comments in opposition. G�Plann�ng�Tony Bagato�Word Files�FormalslStaff Reports�PP\PP 08-10 Sheriff StauoMGty Council�Gry Council SIaH Report.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 3 of 9 Discussion: I. BACKGROUND: A. Property Description: The site is located on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue. The project will be located on a 10-acre portion of Assessor's Parcel Number 653-740-001 (see Vicinity Map). The property is relatively flat with an approximate 12-foot slope across 300 feet from the west property line to the east. B. General Plan Designation and Zoning: The property is currently designated Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) in the City's General Plan and is zoned as Planned Residential-5 dwelling units per acre (P.R.-5). C. Adjacent Zoning and Land Use: North: P.R.S / Ponderosa Homes, single-family South: P.R.5 / Vacant, Palm Desert RDA property East: P.R.S /Vacant, Palm Desert RDA property West: P.R.5 / Marriot Shadow Ridge maintenance area II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION: The project includes a General Plan Amendment from Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) to Public/Quasi-Public Facilities (PF), a Change of Zone from Planned Residential-5 (P.R.-5) to Public Institution (P), and a Precise Plan of Design and a Conditional Use Permit to allow the construction and operation of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totaling approximately 85,496 square feet with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad for emergency purposes, 470 parking spaces, a hazardous waste storage area, a fleet fueling station, wash bay for oversize vehicles and bioswales for stormwater pollution management. Due to continued growth in the Coachella Valley, Riverside County is in need of an additional Sheriff Station to serve the cities of Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells, as well as unincorporated areas of the County. This facility will be a new regional station for Riverside County with an anticipated build-out in 2025 providing for an estimated 350 sworn and 100 non-sworn personnel for a total of 450 staff members. The station will be staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days per year. G:�Planning�Tony Bagato\Word Files\Formats\Staff RepoAs\PP�PP OB-10 Shenff StaUOMGity Council�Gty Council Slaff Report.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 4 of 9 A. Site Plan: Access to the property is provided by two right-in and right-out driveways on Gerald Ford Drive. The easterly driveway will have a left turn in and Riverside County will construct the median improvements to provide the new turning lane. Both driveways provide access to the visitor parking area in front of the Sheriff Station and to the 8-foot tall steel gates located on the west and east side of the Sheriff Station. As part of the project, the applicant will dedicate 10 feet of public right-of- way along the south side of Gerald Ford Drive to provide a third lane that will merge back to two lanes east of the project site. The proposed Sheriff Station will be set back between 135 to 165 feet from the new front property line (Gerald Ford Drive), approximately 370 feet from the rear property line, 64 feet 5 inches from the west property line and 99 feet 4 inches from the east properly line. The site plan also includes: an entry plaza with three flagpoles; 470 parking spaces (373 covered for staff, 93 for visitors and 4 for oversized vehicles); an outdoor trash bin area; a hazardous materials storage area; an outdoor break area; fueling station; wash bays; and a 20-foot by 20-foot bike impound structure with a rooftop helipad. The 20-foot by 20-foot bike- impound/helipad structure is located toward the west property line away from the surrounding residents. The Sheriff's Office has indicated that this helipad will be used for emergency purposes only. The Riverside County has also agreed to place a piece of art worth $100,000 on site to comply with the City's Art in Public Places program. Before the project is complete, the art piece will be reviewed and approved through the Art's in Public Places program. B. Building and Facilities Description: The project totals 85,496 square feet of floor area for all buildings and is as follows: • Sheriff Station Building totals 55,294 square feet • Evidence Warehouse totals 20,471 square feet • Central Plant totals 8,493 square feet • Bike-Impound structure totals 1,323 square feet with a 20-foot by 20- foot rooftop helipad. The main Sheriff Station building will contain staff offices, a public lobby and restrooms, meeting and counseling rooms, administrative support offices G:\PlanrnnglTony Bagato\Word Files\Formats\Staff Reports�PP\PP 08-70 Sheri(f Stahon�Gty Council\Ciry Council Staff Report.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 5 of 9 and facilities, electronic support rooms, employee break room / lunch rooms and restrooms, locker rooms, interview rooms, secure rooms and a secure weapons room. The evidence warehouse facility will contain secure storage, a property intake area, refrigerator/freezer space, air drying areas, and vehicle processing areas. The bike impound structure is approximately 38 feet 8 inches by 33 feet 4 inches. It will house bikes that are impounded and provides for an electric room and a helipad on the rooftop. The fueling area will initially contain one 10,000-gallon above ground fuel storage and dispensing nozzle system. Future growth will require one additional 10,000-gallon fuel storage and dispensing nozzle system in the same location. The wash bay will consist of a spray nozzle, drainage capture system (water clarifier), and two parking spots. The wash bay will be used for oversized vehicles such as trailers and emergency command vehicles. Patrol vehicles will be washed at a commercial car wash off-site. C. Architecture: The proposed building design can best be described as Desert Contemporary utilizing strong horizontal elements. Surtace elements consist of split-face block in different colors, finro types of stone veneer, manufactured stone, metal window trim and a rustic metal equipment screen on the rooftop, and wood trellis around the building. A material sample board will be available at the meeting. The proposed building has varying roof heights between 18 feet and 25 feet 6 inches measured from the finished floor. Due to the 12-foot grade change from the west to the east, the building height from Gerald Ford Drive will vary between 18 feet at the west property line and 33 feet at the east property line, measured from the curb. The bike-impound/helipad structure will be constructed out of split-face block wall with a hollow metal door. The total height of the structure is 14 feet 8 inches. An open stairway provides access from the ground floor to the helipad. On February 12, 2008, the project's architecture was reviewed and approved by the Architectural Review Commission (4-0-0-2, Commissioners Hanson and Lambell absent). G:�Planning\Tony Bagato�Word Files�FormalS�Staf1 Reports\PP\PP OB-10 Shenff Station�Ciry Council\City Council Staff Report.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 6 of 9 D. Landscaping: The proposed landscaping plan for the project provides for 9Q,066 square feet of drought tolerant landscaped area and natural bioswales for stormwater pollution management. On April 16, 2008, the City's Landscape Beautification Committee reviewed and approved the proposed landscape plan. E. LEED-Certified: The proposed project will meet the specifications of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. To accomplish LEED-Certification, the project is providing shielded parking lot light fixtures to reduce light pollution, natural bioswales to control stormwater runoff and pollution from the site, as well as filter pollutants from the site prior to the water percolating into the ground, solar panels located on the rooftop for natural renewable energy, and other LEED technologies, including the possible use of recycled or other green building materials. IV. ANALYSIS: The project includes a general plan amendment and change of zone to Public/Institution District, which states that the development standards are as approved. The following table provides the proposed project development standards. STANDARD ZONE PROJECT Coverage N/A 19% Building Height N/A 18' to 25' 6" Front Setback N/A 135 feet Rear Setback N/A 370 feet Side Setbacks N/A 64' 5" / 99' 4" Parking 280 470 Landscaping N/A 20% Although the zone does not provide any development standards, Riverside County staff has worked diligently with City staff to make sure the proposed project is compatibfe with the surrounding neighborhood and provides all the services and needs required by the Sheriff's Office. The project has been G�.\Planning\Tony Bagato\Wortl FileS\Formats\Staff Reports\PP\PP OB-70 Sherd(Slalion\Ciry CounCinGry Council Slaff RepoA.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 7 of 9 approved by the Planning Commission, Architectural Review Commission and Landscape Beautification Committee. The proposed site plan supports the proposed use and the building design wil! provide a high quality, LEED-Certified Sheriff Station that will serve our community and surrounding jurisdictions. Findings of Qpproval for Precise Plan and Conditional Use Permit: In accordance with the City of Palm Desert Zoning Ordinance 25.72.070, the following findings for a Conditional Use Permit are required to be made before granting a Conditional Use Permit: 1. The proposed location of the project is in accordance with the objectives of the Zoning Ordinance and the purpose of the district in which the site is located. Due to the continued growth of fhe Coache//a Valley and northern area of Palm Desert, there is a regional need for a new Sheriff Station to serve our community and neighboring cities and unincorporated areas of Riverside County. The proposed project is located in a Planned Residential zone (P.R.), but the applicant is requesting a Change of Zone to P, Public Institution. The purpose and intent of the Public/Institutional District is fo provide for the establishmenf of public facilities. A Sheriff's Station serves as a public safety resource to the general public and is considered a public facility. Chapter 25.38 of the City of Palm Desert's Municipal Code Section 25.38.020 (Pu61ic/Institutional District Permitted Uses) states no use shall be permitted without a conditional use permit. The proposed Sheriff Station is consistent with the purpose of the Public/Institutional District. 2. The proposed location of the project and the conditions under which it will be operated and maintained will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. The use of the Sheriff Station is permitted within the P, Public Institution zone, subject to a Genera!Plan Amendment and a Change of Zone, with a Conditional Use Permit (for the land use), and is consistent with the intent of the City's Zoning Ordinance as described above. The project will not be detrimenfal fo the public interest, health, safety, welfare and will not be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. The proposed project will, in fact, enhance public safety by providing police services in an area where they are not currently housed, and by situating the dispatch point on a thoroughfare from which rapid respvnse is G��Planning�Tony Bagalo\Word Files�Formats�Slaff Reports�PP\PP OB-70 Sheriff Station\Gty Councd�Cdy Councd Stafl Repon.tice Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 8 of 9 facilitated. The project will have a helicopter landing pad for emergency purposes, which is not currently available anywhere else in the City. An environmental assessment leading to a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared that concludes that there will be no adverse environmental effects. 3. The proposed project will comply with each of the applicable provisions of Title 25 (Zoning). The proposed use is consistent with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance and will comply with the Public Institution zone. Additionally, conditions have been added to the project to ensure that all the minimum requiremenfs of the Palm Desert Municipal Code are met. 4. The proposed project complies with the goals, objectives, and policies of the City's adopted General Plan. The applicant is requesting a General Plan Amendment to P.F., Public/Quasi-Public Facility. A primary objective stated in the Land Use Element of the Genera/ Plan under Public Services and Facilities Goals, Policies and Programs is Policy 1, which states the City shall pro-actively cooperate and coordinate with all providers of utility and public facilities and safety services in the community to assure adequate and quality levels of service. Program 1.A of the General Plan Land Use Element is that the City shall regularly coordinate and, as appropriate, cooperate with the various public and private providers responsible for utilities, police, fire, health and other protection and care services in fhe community. Policy 2 of the General Plan Land Use Element is that the City shall encourage the timely development of public services and facilities in a manner which assures adequate levels of service, while remaining compatible with existing and future land uses. This project maintains a land use that is consistent with the goals, policies, and programs of the General Plan. The project is consistent with the General Plan because the project proposes a public facilify use, which is compatible with the existing uses within the surrounding area, and offers an excellent service to the community. G:�Plann�ng\Tony Bagato\Word Files�Formats�StaH Reports\PP\PP 08-10 Shenff Stahon�C�ly Council�Gry Gouncil Staff Report.doc Staff Report Case Nos. GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 June 26, 2008 Page 9 of 9 V. ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW: For the purposes of CEQA, the Director of Community Development has determined that the proposed project as mitigated will not have a significant negative impact on the environment and staff has prepared a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact. Submitted by: Department Head: �� ,,. Tony Bag to, Lauri Aylaian, Principal Planner Director of Community Development Approv : ;;ITY COUNCIL�TION: APPROVED DENIED RECEIV�D OTH�R - o ` - - �� .No r � s� '��y. omer Croy '��'��'�'zl�� UATE �d - ACM for De�E�pment Services ��` � '��r � � � ," r��.�.,� �::,;��d:��r: �' �.��alt�: ..�.�..� ��`�;t'��.��"IED BY: �.�� Carlos L. Ortega ;ri�z.r�a1 on Fil� w� �i�y Clerk' � c'Jf-�a�,� City Manager G:\Planning\Tony Bagato\Word Files\Formats\Staff Reports\PP\PP OS-10 Sheriff Station\City Coundl\City Council Staff Report.doc RESOLUTION NO. 08_62 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING OF A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT FROM RESORT/HOTEL COMMERCIAL (C-R/H) TO PUBLIC/QUASI-PUBLIC FACILITIES (P�, EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED. CASE NO. GPA 08-10 WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 26"' day of June 2008, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY for approval of the above noted; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Pa{m Desert, California, did on the 20"' day of May 2008, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the said request and by its Resolution No. 2475 recommending approval of GPA 08-10; and WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act", Resolution No. 06-78, the Director of Communiry Development has determined that the project will not have a negative impact on the environment and a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for adoption, and WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said Ciry Council did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify approval of said request: 1. The proposed general plan amendment is consistent with the surrounding golf courses and single-family homes in the vicinity. 2. The general plan amendment is consistent with the goals and objective of the general plan. 3. The general plan amendment will not be detrimental to public peace, health, safety or general welfare. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, as follows: 1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of the City Council in this case. 2. That the Ciry Council does hereby approve GPA 08-10 as shown on Exhibit "A". 3. A Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact is hereby certified (Exhibit "B" attached). RESOLUTION NO. �g-1,2 PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert Ciry Council, held on this 26th day of June 2008, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: JEAN M. BENSON, Mayor ATTEST: RACHELLE KLASSEN, City Clerk City of Palm Desert, California 2 �--{ �� CE2q �R o a � , � '�� NN��R � —� ` �� Z u�i I = �PG4 V'aly G uWi m �� Gy O o . R ANA PL v � � v � OKEEFE i C9� M�h � GRANITA DR � y�y 4rQ � FT�R RUBE � R=M�R=hf � � TRAVERS ST � � � �- - - -- - - - - -- - - - -- - = - - - -- - - - - -- -- -- - - ---- -- -- -- -- - - - - -- - - �OS/PR� - - -- -- -- -- -- �- - - -- - - - - - - - - - -- - - -- GERALD FORDT R -- -- -- - - -- - - --. - . . \ 1 J I p � W I = � R� _ � li � G�� SCHOLAR LN W SCF10 ��O � p� � � . � � �� .� �� . • � � y � WINDF \ , . I � I I a� � � � C-R/H 0 � W � C � Proposed o GPA c a x " \\\� Resort/Hote/ Commercial(C-R/H) To Public/Quasi-Public Institution (PF) City of Palm Desert 08-,�O CITY COUNCIL Case No. `��t�� GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT RESOLUT/ON NO. 08-62 �� EX H I B I T A Date: RESOLUTION NO. os-62 EXHIBIT "B" MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the California Code of Regulations. CASE NOS: GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 County of Riverside - Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION: Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit to allow construction of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totaling approximately 85,496 square feet. The project site is located on south side of Gerald ford drive, east of Monterey avenue and west of Portola avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of assessor's parcel number 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald ford drive. The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert, California, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect on the environment. A copy of the Initial Study has been attached to document the reasons in support of this finding. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects, may also be found attached. LAURI AYLAIAN DATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 4 ORDINANCE NO. 1159 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 107, THE PALM DESERT ZONING MAP BY CHANGING THE ZONE FROM PLANNED RESIDENTIAL 5 (P.R.-5) TO PUBLIC INSTITUTION (P), EXHIBIT "A" ATTACHED. CASE NO. C/Z 08-10 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission by its Resolution No. 2475 has recommended approval of Case No. Change of Zone 08-10; and WHEREAS, at said public hearings, said City Council heard and considered all testimony and arguments of all interested persons. WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, DOES HEREBY ORDAIN, AS FOLLOWS: SECTION 1: That a portion of Ordinance No. 107 referencing Section 25.46.1 of the Zoning Ordinance, the Zoning Map (Chapter 35.46 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code) is hereby amended to read as shown on the attached Exhibit "A". SECTION 2: That a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact is hereby certified as shown on the attached Exhibit "B". SECTION 3: That the City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, is hereby directed to publish this ordinance in the Desert Sun, a newspaper of general circulation, published and circulated in the City of Palm Desert, California, and shall be in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its adoption. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City Council, held on this 26th day of June 2008, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: JEAN M. BENSON, Mayor ATTEST: RACHELLE KLASSEN, City Clerk City of Palm Desert, California Wr —_____ J 1 > I_ a. 0) a a — OC = co'O ixz W z c � ill 4NAPL P.R. _5_ � 18 icgt GRANITA DR 11111 TRAVERIST I City of Palm Desert GERALD FORD DR P.R.-5 P.R.-5 Case No. 08-10 CHANGE OF ZONE EXHIBIT A P.R.-5 SCHOLAR LN W Proposed Zoning Change z 1 0 CC PW . d W x N H L WIN )F Planned Residential 5 (P.R.-5) To Public Institution (P) CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO. 1159 Date: ORDINANCE NO. 1159 EXHIBIT "B" MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the California Code of Regulations. CASE NOS: GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 County of Riverside - Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION: Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit to allow construction of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totaling approximately 85,496 square feet. The project site is located on south side of Gerald ford drive, east of Monterey avenue and west of Portola avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of assessor's parcel number 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald ford drive. The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert, California, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect on the environment. A copy of the Initial Study has been attached to document the reasons in support of this finding. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects, may also be found attached. LAURI AYLAIAN DATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 3 RESOLUTION NO. os-s3 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, A PRECISE PLAN AND A CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF STATION TOTALING APPROXIMATELY 85,496 SQUARE FEET. THE PROJECT SITE IS LOCATED ON SOUTH SIDE OF GERALD FORD DRIVE, EAST OF MONTEREY AVENUE AND WEST OF PORTOLA AVENUE. THE SITE INCLUDES A 10-ACRE PORTION OF ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 653-740-001, ALSO KNOWN AS 73-700 GERALD FORD DRIVE. CASE NOS: PP/CUP 0&10 WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 26�' day of June 2008, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY for approval of the above noted; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the 20m day of May 2008, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the said request and by its Resolution No. 2475 recommended approval of PP/CUP 08-10; and WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act", Resolution No. 06-78, the Director of Community Development has determined that the project will not have a negative impact on the environment and a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for adoption, and WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify approval of said request: Precise Plan/Conditional Use Permit: 1. The proposed location of the project is in accordance with the objectives of the Zoning Ordinance and the purpose of the district in which the site is located. Due to the continued growth of the Coachella Valley and northern area of Palm Desert, there is a regional need for a new Sheriff Stafion to serve our community and neighboring cities and unincorporated areas of Riverside County. The proposed projecf is located in a Planned Residential zone (P.R.), buf the applicant is requesting a Change of Zone to P, Public Institution. The purpose and intent of the Public/Institutional District is to provide for the RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 establishment of public facilities. A Sheriffs Station serves as a public safety resource to the general public and is considered a public facility. Chapter 25.38 of the City of Palm Desert's Municipal Code Section 25.38.020 (Public/Institutional District Permitted Uses) states no use shall be permitted without a conditiona! use permit The proposed Sheriff Station is consistent with the purpose of the Public/Institutional District. 2. The proposed location of the project and the conditions under which it will be operated and maintained will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. The use of the Sheriff Station is permitted within the P, Public Institution zone, subject to a General Plan Amendment and a Change of Zone, with a Conditional Use Permit(for the land use), and is consistent with the intenr of the City's Zoning Ordinance as described above. The project will not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety, welfare and will not be materially injurious fo properties or improvements in the vicinity. The proposed project will, in fact, enhance public safety by providing police services in an area where they are not currently housed, and by situating the dispatch point on a thoroughfare from which rapid response is facilitated. The project will have a helicopter landing pad for emergency purposes, which is not currently available anywhere else in the City. An environmental assessment leading to a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared that concludes that there will be no adverse environmental effecfs. 3. The proposed project will comply with each of the applicable provisions of this Title 25 (Zoning). The proposed use is consistent with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance and will comply with the Public Institution zone. Additiona/ly, conditions have been added to the project to ensure that all the minimum requirements of the Palm Desert Municipal Code are met. 4. The proposed project complies with the goals, objectives, and policies of the city's adopted General Plan. The applicant is requesting a General Plan Amendment to P.F., Public/Quasi-Public Facility. A primary objective stated in the Land Use Element of ihe General Plan under Public Services and Facilities Goals, Policies and Programs is Policy 1, which states the City shall pro-actively cooperate and coordinate with all providers of utility and public facilities and safety services in the community fo assure adequate and quality levels of service. Program 1.A of the General Plan Land Use Element is that the City G:�Planning\Tony Baqato\Word Files�Formats\Staft Reports�PP�PP 08•10 Sherift Statim\Ciry Counal\Ciry Coundl PP_CUP Resdution.tloc 2 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 shall regularly coordinate and, as appropriafe, cooperate with the various public and private providers responsible for utilities, police, fire, health and other protection and care services in the community. Policy 2 of the General Plan Land Use Element is thaf the City shall encourage the timely development of public services and facilities in a manner which assures adequate levels of service, while remaining compatible with existing and future land uses. This project maintains a land use that is consistent with the goals, policies, and programs of the General Plan. The project is consistent wifh the General Plan because fhe project proposes a public facility use, which is compatible wifh the existing uses wifhin the surrounding area, and offers an excellent service to the community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, as follows: 1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of the City Council in this case. 2. That the City Council does hereby approve Precise Plan and Conditional Use Permit 08-10 subject to conditions. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City Council, held on this 26t� day of June 2008, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: NOES: ABSENT: ABSTAIN: JEAN M. BENSON, Mayor ATTEST: RACHELLE KLASSEN, Ciry Clerk Ciry of Palm Desert, California G\Planning\Tony Bagato\Word Files�Formats\Stafl Reparts�PP�PP 08-10 ShBnH Station\Ciry Counpl\City Counal PP_CUP Resdution.tloc 3 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL CASE NOS. PP AND CUP 08-10 Department of Communitv Development: 1. The development of the property shall conform substantially with exhibits on file with the Department of Community Development/Planning, as modified by the following conditions. 2. Access to trash/service areas shall be placed so as not to conflict with parking areas. Said placement shall be approved by applicable waste company and Department of Community Development and shall include a recycling program. 3. All sidewalk plans shall be reviewed and approved by the department of public works. 4. A detailed parking lot and building lighting plan shall be submitted to staff for approval, subject to applicable lighting standards, plan to be prepared by a qualified lighting engineer. 5. The project is subject to the Art in Public Places program per Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 4.10. 6. In the event that Native American cultural resources are discovered during project developmendconstruction, all work in the immediate vicinity of the find shall cease and a qualified archaeologist meeting Secretary of Interior standards shall be hired to assess the find. Work on the overall project may continue during this assessment period. If significant Native American cultural resources are discovered that require a Treatment Plan, the developer or his archaeologist shall contact the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. If requested by the Tribe, the developer or archaeologist shall, in good faith, consult on the discovery and its disposition (e.g. avoidance, preservation, return, or artifacts to tribe, etc.). Deaartment of Public Works: 1. All landscape maintenance shall be performed by the property owner who shall maintain the landscaping per the City approved landscape document package for the life of the project, consistent with the Property Maintenance Ordinance (Ord. 801) and the approved landscaped plan. 2. A complete preliminary soils investigation, conducted by a registered soils engineer, shall be submitted to, and approved by, the Department of Public Works prior to the issuance of a grading permit. 3. Signalization fees, in accordance with City of Palm Desert Resolution Nos. 79-17 and 79-55, shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permit. G:�Planning�7ony Bagato�Woid Files�Formats\Statt Repons�PP\PP OB-10 Shentt Station\Ciry Counal�Ciry Counpl PP_CUP Resdution.doc 4 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 4. In the event that the project is subject to Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF), the payment of said fees or certification of an exemption from TUMF by Coachella Valley Association of Governments shall be required prior to the close of escrow. 5. A standard inspection fee shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permits. 6. Drainage fees, in accordance with Section 26.49 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code shall be paid to issuance of grading permit. 7. Storm drain design and construction shall be contingent upon a drainage study prepared by a registered civil engineer that is reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Works prior to start of construction. 8. Complete grading and improvement plans and specifications shall be submitted to the Director of Public Works for checking and approval prior to issuance of any permits. 9. Any and all offsite improvements shall be preceded by the approval of plans and the issuance of valid encroachment permits by the Department of Public Works. 10. Pad elevations are subject to review and modification in accordance with Chapter 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. 11. Landscape installation shall be drought tolerant in nature and in accordance with the City's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (24.04). 12. Landscape plans shall be submitted for review concurrently with grading plans. CONSTRUCTION REGIUIREMENT 13. Full public improvements, as required by Section 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code, shall be installed in accordance with applicable City standards including: • Dedication and improvement of Gerald Ford Drive with a 75-foot half street section including 42-foot pavement width with a 5 to 1 taper easterly, 24-foot parkway with an 8-foot sidewalk-minimum 4-foot back from curb. • A left turn lane entering the easternmost driveway. Rights-of-way necessary for the installation of the above referenced improvements shall be dedicated to the city prior to the issuance of any permits associated with this project. G:�Planning\Tony Bagato\Wad Files\Formats\Staff Reports�PP�PP OB-10 ShenH Station\Ciry Coundl\City Council PP_CUP Rasdution.doc 5 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 14. All public and private improvements shall be inspected by the Department of Public Works and no Certification of Completion shall be granted until the improvements have been completed. 15. Applicant shall comply with provisions of Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 24.12, Fugitive Dust Control as well as Section 24.20, Storm water Management and Discharge Control. 16. Prior to the start of construction, the applicant shall submit satisfactory evidence to the Director of Public Works of intended compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction. Developer must contact Riverside County Flood Control District for informational materials. SPECIAL CONDITIONS 17. Westernmost driveway shall be offset to reduce conflicts with the Shadow Ridge driveway. 18. Slopes within the project shall not exceed 3:1 and a 2% slope within 12 feet from Gerald Ford Drive. 19. Agreements shall be made where conditions pertain to permit issuance and certificate of occupancy if other arrangements are made and the City is not the Lead Agency in these areas. Riverside Countv Fire Department: 1. With respect to the conditions of approval regarding the above referenced project, the Fire Department recommends the following fire protection measures be provided in accordance with City Municipal Codes, NFPA, UFC and UBC, or any recognized fire protection standards. The Fire Department is required to set a minimum fire flow for the remodel or construction of all buildings per UFC article 87. 2. A fire flow of 1500 gpm for a 1-hour duration at 20 psi residual pressure must be available before any combustible material is placed on the job site. 3. Provide or show there exists a water system capable of providing a gpm fire flow of 3000 gpm for commercial buildings. 4. The required fire flow shall be available from a wet barrel Super Hydrant(s) 4"x2- 1/2"x2-1/2", located not less than 25' nor more than 150' feet from any portion of a commercial building measured via vehicular travelway. G:Wlann�ng\Tony Bagato\Wortl Files�Formats\Statt Reports�PP�PP 08-10 SheriN Station\Ciry Counal\Ciry Coundl PP_CUP Resdution.dce 6 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 5. Water plans must be approved by the Fire Marshal and include verification that the water system will produce the required fire flow. 6. Install a complete NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system. This applies to all buildings with a 3000 square foot total cumulative floor area. The Fire Marshal shall approve the locations of all post indicator valves and fire department connections. All valves and connections shall not be less than 25' from the building and within 50' of an approved hydrant. Exempted are one and two family dwellings. 7. All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems and water- flow switches shall be monitored and alarmed per UBC Chapter 9. 8. Install a fire alarm system as required by the UBC Chapter 3. 9. Install portable fire extinguishers per NFPA 10, but not less than one 2A10BC extinguisher per 3000 square feet and not over 75' walking distance. A "K" rype fire extinguisher is required in all commercial kitchens. 10. All buildings shall be accessible by an all-weather roadway extending to within 150' of all portions of the e�erior walls of the first story. The roadway shall not be less than 24' of unobstructed width and 13'6" of vertical clearance. Where parallel parking is required on both sides of the street the roadway must be 36' wide and 32' wide with parking on one side. Dead-end roads in excess of 150' shall be provided with a minimum 45' radius turn-around 55' in industrial developments. 11. Whenever access into private property is controlled through use of gates, barriers or other means provisions shall be made to install a "Knox Box" key over-ride system to allow for emergency vehicle access. Minimum gate width shall be 16' with a minimum vertical clearance of 13'6". 12. All buildings shall have illuminated addresses of a size approved by the city. 13. All fire sprinkler systems, fixed fire suppression systems and alarm plans must be submitted separately to the Fire Marshal for approval prior to construction. 14. Conditions subject to change with adoption of new codes, ordinances, laws or when building permits are not obtained within 12 months. G:�Planning\Tony Bagato\Word Files�Formats\StaH Reports�PP�PP OB-10 Sheriff Station\Ciry Counpl\Ciry Counal PP_CUP ResWution.doc 7 RESOLUTION NO. 08-63 EXHIBIT "A" MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the California Code of Regulations. CASE NOS: GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 County of Riverside - Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION: Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit to allow construction of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totaling approximately 85,496 square feet. The project site is located on south side of Gerald ford drive, east of Monterey avenue and west of Portola avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of assessor's parcel number 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald ford drive. The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert, California, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect on the environment. A copy of the Initial Study has been attached to document the reasons in support of this finding. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects, may also be found attached. LAURI AYLAIAN DATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT G:\Planning\Tony Bagato\Word Files\Formats�StaH Reports�PP�PP 08-10 Shenfl Station\Ciry Council\City Coundl PP_CUP Resdution.doc 8 CItY OF Pfllffl DESERT I ]j-510 FRED WARING I�RIVt ' PALM nESER�I-,C��tfoRNu qzz6o-z578 reu 760 346—o6u F�x:760 ;qi-7og8 in(oCopal m-dcscn.org CITY OF PALM DESERT LEGAL NOTICE CASE NOS: GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY FOR PUBLIC REVIEW FOR THE PALM DESERT SHERIFF STATION PROJECT LOCATED IN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA Pursuant to Section 15072 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA)guidelines, this is to notify all interested parties that the City of Palm Desert has prepared Initial Study and draft Mitigated Negative Declaration(IS/MND)for the following project. PROJECT NAME AND DESCRIPTION: The proposed "Palm Desert Sheriff Station ProjecY' is the construction and operation of a new Sheriff Station of approximately 85,496 square fP�et with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad, parking for 470 vehicles, a fleet fueling station, wa�sh bay for oversize vehicles and bioswales for stormwater pollution management. By 2025 staffing would consist of 350 swom and 100 non-sworn personnel for a total of 450. The helipad would be used intermittently for emergency purposes. The current General Plan land use designation of Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) will be changed to PublidQuasi Public Facilities (PF) and General Plan zoning designation would change from Planned Residential, 5 units per acre(PR 5)to Public Institution(P). PROJECT LOCATION: The proposed project site is located in the Ciry of Palm Desert in eastern Riverside County, California. The site has frontage on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive, east of Monterey Avenue and west of Portola Avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of Assessor's Parcel Number 653-740-001. VICINTY MAP ON THE OTHER SIDE PUBLIC REVIEW PERIOD: The public review period extends from June 5, 2008 through June 25, 2008. Written comments about the proposed project must be received no later than June 25, 2008 and should be addressed to: Tony Bagato - Principal Planner, City of Palm Desert— Planning Department, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. PUBLIC HEARING: A hearing for the proposed project will be held during a regularly scheduled City Council meeting on Thursday, June 26 at 4:OOp.m. in the Civic Center Council Chamber, 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert,California 92260. AVAILABILITY OF ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTS: A copy of the Initial Study and related documents are available for review at the following locations: City of Palm Desert—Planning Department 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Pa/m Desert. CA 92260 Hours:8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (Closed major holidays) County of Riverside-Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507 Hours: 7:00 a.m.—5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (C/osed major holidays) PUBLISH: Desert Sun RACHELLE KLASSEN,City Clerk June 5,2008 Palm Desert,California � ,�., , ,::�. ^��, -� : �, �� d �� *� i ��t '�A�"4.A�f'�~�0'�ytS, - � �"�,<� ,,.��c ��,°< (�r,_;: �,��,�. ��v� :' ; '¢, � �y � � - P � A.�� 3�tiS t�, K � ' .� � Q .� "�S �"@6LMp�� ai� ` �,�at� .�,.Y �g'. k�.��^.Y L.i A�-.y P&��e�."� . �`�+`^� �� $ • ' � � ' w � '�d4.1.t'$L �• . �Y�.. .-S'�,�� . .. .. +!( . _.. .�•��4^.. .. ., ?��; a£�qa �'� , .. ..��ryl . ��. , �+ � L ��'��r�}��'��ra m . . , � . y�i � � � i�� , , ;>' �i;t � .�� r'�� '. � ��• ,. �'� ,s�sfYy,� + rC��:{�. �.j F s . . . .. , i. ' , ..�' � �?S �y; S,�� _ � R�� h(��S t �,. ^�� ,y� y' ` _. �rCl�Yt.:�t 'pY�°`'�i �..- �; ..f°,+.��ti . . . . :,-'�� # . :. �, ,`C�y` _. . 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' � e�_.� , . , ...�wr,�� , .,�. �- . p � .. iR��`f �y��•t $�.: �e, �, � i"� .,�'� ��hN ..' , ,; � ��`.`t.��. �' s. :t•'° .� �� i��i,�.., • � � �� ' � � . � • � � �� '� • � CI1Y Of � lf� DESERI � 73—SIO FRED WARING DRIVE � PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578 � TEL: 760 ;46—o6i� I ; Fi,x: 760 34i-7oq8 i info@palm-desert.org PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING NOTICE OF ACTION Date: May 22, 2008 Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency County of Riverside 73510 Fred Waring Drive Department of Facilities Management Palm Desert, California 92260 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, California 92507 Re: GPA, C/Z and PP/CUP 08-10 73-700 Gerald Ford Drive The Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert has considered your request and taken the following action at its regular meeting of May 20, 2008: PLANNING COMMISSION RECOMMENDED TO CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF CASE NOS. GPA, C/Z AND PP/CUP 08-10 BY ADOPTION OF PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION NO. 2475, SUBJECT TO CONDITIONS AS AMENDED. MOTION CARRIED 4-0. Any appeal of the above action may be made in writing to the City Clerk, City of Palm Desert, within fifteen (15) days of the date of the decision. This matter is tentatively scheduled for the June 26, 2008 City Council meeting. _ --" _� ;- ��/�`��- Lauri Aylaian, Secretary Palm Desert Planning Commission /tm cc: Coachella Valley Water District Public Works Department Building & Safety Department Fire Marshal ��oatl��e�� Y ( � PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTtON NO. 2475 A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDINCi TO CITY COUNCIL APPROVAL OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT, CHANGE OF ZONE, PRECISE PLAN AND A CONDlT10NAL USE PERMIT TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF STATION TOTALING APPROXIMATELY 85,496 SGIUARE FEET. THE PROJECT SITE IS LOCATED ON SOUTN SIDE OF GERALD FORD DRIVE, EAST OF MONTEREY AVENUE AND WEST OF PORTOLA AVENUE. THE SITE fNCLUDES A 10-ACRE PORTION OF ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 653-740-001, ALSO KNOWN AS 73- 700 GERALD FORD DRIVE. CASE NOS: GPA. CR, PP/CUP 08-10 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert, Califomia, did on the 20�' day of May 2008, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by the PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY for approva(of the above noted; and WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality AcY', Resolution No. 06-78, the Director of Community Development has determined that the project will not have a negative impact on the environment and a Mitigated Negative Declaration has been prepared for adoption, and WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and arguments, if any, of aN interested persons desiring to be heard, said Planning Commission did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify the recommendation to the City Council of said request: Preclse PIaNConditional Use Permit: 1. The proposed location of the project is in accordance with the objectives of the Zoning Ordinance and the purpose of the district in which the site is located. Due to ihe continued growth of ihe Coachella Valley and northern area of Palrn Desert, there is a regional need for a new Sheriff Station to serve our community and neighboring cities and unincorporated areas of Riverside County. The proposed project is locaied in a Planned Residential zone (P.R.), but the applicant is requesting a Change of Zone to P, Public Instiiuiion. The puipose and intent of the Public./Institutional Districf is to provide for the establishment of public facilities. A Sheriffs Station serves as a public PLANNING COMMISSIO. AESOLUTION NO. 2475 � ' safety resource to the general public and is considered a public facility. Chapter 25.38 of the City of Pa/m Desert's Municipal Code Section 25.38.020 (Public/InstrtufionaJ District Permitted Uses) states no use shall be permitted withoui a conditional use permit. The proposed Sheriff Station is consistent with the purpose of the Public/Institutiona/District 2. The proposed location of the project and the conditions under which it will be operated and maintained will not be detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare, or be materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. The use of the Sheriff Station is permitted within the P, Public Institution zone, subject to a General Plan Amendment and a Change of Zone, with a Conditional Use Permit(for the land use), and is consistent with the intent of the City's Zoning Ordinance as described above. The pro%ect will not be deirimental fo ihe public inieresi, health, safety, welfare and will not be maierially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity. The proposed project will, in fact, enhance public safety by providing police services in an area where they are not currently housed, and by situating the dispatch point on a ihoroughfare from which rapid response is facilitaied. The projeci will have a helicopier landing pad for emergency purposes, which is not currently available anywhere e/se in ihe City. An environmental assessment/eading to a Mitigaied Negative Declaration has been prepared that concludes thai there will be no adverse environmental effecis. 3. The proposed project will comply with each of the applicabte provisions of this Title 25 (Zoning). The proposed use is consistent with the intent of the Zoning Ordinance and will comp/y with the Public /nstifution zone. Additionally, conditions have been added to the project to ensure that a/l the minimum requirements of the Palm Desert Municipal Code are met. 4. The proposed project complies with the goals, objectives, and policies of the city's adopted General Plan. The applicant is requesting a General Plan Amendment to P.F., Public/Quasi-Public Facility. A primary objective stated in the Land Use Element of the General Plan under Public Services and Facilities Goals, Policies and Programs is Policy 1, which states the City shall pro-actively cooperate and coordinate with all providers of utility and public facilities and safety services in the communiry to assure adequate and quality /evels of service. Program 1.A of the General P/an Land Use E/emeni is that the Ciiy shall regularly coordinate and, as appropriate, cooperate with the various 2 . PLANNING COAAMI3� N RESOLUTION NO. 2475 C publk and prnrate providers responsib�e for utllfti�es, police, fire, hea/th and od�er protec�fon and care services in the oommunity. Polky 2 of the General Plan Land Use E/ement is that the City sha/l encourage the tlmely devebpment of public services and facilities in a manner whi�ch assures adequate levels of service, while remaining compafible with existing and future land uses. This projeci maintains a land use ihat is consistent with the goals, policies, and programs of the General Plan. The project is conslsient with the General Plan because the project proposes a public facility use, which is compaiible with the exisbng uses within the surrounding area, and offers an exceUent senrice to ihe community. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission of the City of Palm Desert.Califomia, as folbws: 1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the�indings of the Planning Commission in this case. 2. That the Planning Commission does hereby recommend to City Council approval of Case Nos. GPA, C2, PP and CUP 08-10, subject to conditions. PASSED, APPROVED AND ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert Planning Commission� held on this 20'"day of May, 2008, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: CAMPBELL, LIMONT, SCHMIDT, TANNER NOES: NONE ABSENT: NONE ABSTAIN: NONE � AN G. TANNER, Chairperson ATTEST: � _ - . _ _�7 �' / G� �...�� LAURI AYLAIAN, Secretary Palm Desert Planning Commission 3 PLANNING COMMISSI�_ riESOLUTION NO. 2475 � ' ' CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL CASE NOS. GPA, CR, PP AND CUP 08-10 Department of Communitv Develoament: 1. The development of the property shall conform substantially with exhibits on file with the Department of Community Development/Planning, as modified by the following conditions. 2, Access to trash/service areas shall be placed so as not to conflict with parking areas. Said placement shall be approved by applicable waste company and Department of Community Development and shall include a recycling program. 3. All sidewalk plans shall be reviewed and approved by the department of public works. 4. A detailed parking lot and building lighting plan shall be submitted to staff for approval, subject to applicable lighting standards, plan to be prepared by a qualified lighting engineer. 5. The project is subject to the Art in Public Places program per Palm Desert Municipal Code Chapter 4.10. 6. In the event that Native American cultural resources are discovered during project development/construction, all work in the immediate vicinity of the find shall cease and a qualified archaeologist meeting Secretary of Interior standards shall be hired to assess the find. Work on the overall project may continue during this assessment period. If significant Native American cultural resources are discovered that require a Treatment Plan, the developer or his archaeologist shall contact the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. If requested by the Tribe, the developer or archaeologist shall, in good faith, consult on the discovery and its disposition (e.g. avoidance, preservation, return, or artifacts to tribe, etc.). Deaartment of Public Works: 1 . All landscape maintenance shall be performed by the property owner who shall maintain the landscaping per the City approved landscape document package for the life of the project, consistent with the Property Maintenance Ordinance (Ord. 801) and the approved landscaped plan. 2. A complete preliminary soils investigation, conducted by a registered soils engineer, shall be submitted to, and approved by, the Department of Public Works prior to the issuance of a grading permit. 3. Signalization fees, in accordance with City of Palm Desert Resolution Nos. 79-17 and 79-55, shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permit. 4 � � ` PLANNING COMMISStuN RESOLUTION NO. 2475 � 4. In the event that the project is subject to Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF), the payment of said fees or certification of an exemption from TUMF by Coachella Valley Association of Governments shall be required prior to the close of escrow. 5. A standard inspection fee shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permits. 6. Drainage fees, in accordance with Section 26.49 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code shall be paid to issuance of grading permit. 7. Storm drain design and construction shall be contingent upon a drainage study prepared by a registered civil engineer that is reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Works prior to start of construction. 8. Complete grading and improvement plans and specifications shall be submitted to the Director of Public Works for checking and approval prior to issuance of any permits. 9. Any and all offsite improvements shall be preceded by the approval of plans and the issuance of valid encroachment permits by the Department of Public Works. 10. Pad elevations are subject to review and modification in accordance with Chapter 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. 11. Landscape installation shall be drought tolerant in nature and in accordance with the Ciry's Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (24.04). 12. Landscape plans shall be submitted for review concurrently with grading plans. CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENT 13. Full public improvements, as required by Section 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code, shall be installed in accordance with applicable City standards including: • Dedication and improvement of Gerald Ford Drive with a 75-foot half street section including 42-foot pavement width with a 5 to 1 taper easterly, 24-foot parkway with an 8-foot sidewalk-minimum 4-foot back from curb. • A left turn lane entering the easternmost driveway. Rights-of-way necessary for the installation of the above referenced improvements shall be dedicated to the city prior to the issuance of any permits associated with this project. 5 PLANNING COMMISSIO�. �ESOLUTION NO. 2475 � ' 14. All public and private improvements shall be inspected by the Department of Public Works and no Certification of Completion shall be granted until the improvements have been compteted. 15. Applicant shall comply with provisions of Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 24.12, Fugitive Dust Control as well as Section 24.20, Storm water Management and Discharge Control. 16. Prior to the start of construction, the applicant shall submit satisfactory evidence to the Director of Public Works of intended compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) General Construction Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction. Developer must contact Riverside County Flood Control District for informational materials. SPECIAL CONDITIONS 17. Westernmost driveway shall be offset to reduce conflicts with the Shadow Ridge driveway. 18. Slopes within the project shall not exceed 3:1 and a 2% slope within 12 feet from Gerald Ford Drive. 19. Agreements shall be made where conditions pertain to permit issuance and certificate of occupancy if other arrangements are made and the City is not the Lead Agency in these areas. Riverside Countv Fire Deaartment: 1. With respect to the conditions of approval regarding the above referenced project, the Fire Department recommends the following fire protection measures be provided in accordance with City Municipal Codes, NFPA, UFC and UBC, or any recognized fire protection standards. The Fire Department is required to set a minimum fire flow for the remodel or construction of all buildings per UFC article 87. 2. A fire flow of 1500 gpm for a 1-hour duration at 20 psf residual pressure must be available before any combustible material is placed on the job site. 3. Provide or show there exists a water system capable of providing a gpm fire flow of 3000 gpm for commercial buildings. 4. The required fire flow shall be available from a wet barrel Super Hydrant(s) 4"x2- 1/2"x2-1/2", located not less than 25' nor more than 150' feet from any portion of a commercial building measured via vehicular travelway. 6 '" PLANNING COMMISS�vN RESOLUTION NO. 2475 � 5. Water plans must be approved by the Fire Marshal and include verification that the water system will produce the required fire flow. 6. Install a complete NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system. This applies to all buildings with a 3000 square foot total cumulative floor area. The Fire Marshal shall approve the locations of all post indicator valves and fire department connections. All valves and connections shall not be less than 25' from the building and within 50' of an approved hydrant. Exempted are one and two family dwellings. 7. All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems and water- flow switches shall be monitored and alarmed per UBC Chapter 9. 8. fnstall a fire alarm system as required by the UBC Chapter 3. 9. Install portable fire extinguishers per NFPA 10, but not less than one 2A10BC extinguisher per 3000 square feet and not over 75' walking distance. A "K" type fire extinguisher is required in all commercial kitchens. 10. All buildings shall be accessible by an all-weather roadway extending to within 150' of all portions of the exterior walls of the first story. The roadway shall not be less than 24' of unobstructed width and 13'6" of vertical clearance. Where parallel parking is required on both sides of the street the roadway must be 36' wide and 32' wide with parking on one side. Dead-end roads in excess of 150' shall be provided with a minimum 45' radius turn-around 55' in industrial developments. 11. Whenever access into private property is controlled through use of gates, barriers or other means provisions shatl be made to install a "Knox Box" key over-ride system to allow for emergency vehicle access. Minimum gate width shall be 16' with a minimum vertical clearance of 13'6°. 12. All buildings shall have illuminated addresses of a size approved by the city. 13. All fire sprinkler systems, fixed fire suppression systems and alarm plans must be submitted separately to the Fire Marshal for approval prior to construction. 14. Conditions subject to change with adoption of new codes, ordinances, laws or when building permits are not obtained within 12 months. 7 ( pLANNING COMMISSIOti RESOLUTION NO. 2475 EXHIBIT "A" GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT EXHIBIT � � } --�� =I� �/ `�a,,,rar �3 �,� - /` �— Y�N � ' � �� i u1w� � � � " ~ : R-L �.�.■, ''"o�., �,.. ORANITA DR � Mlr � qR ■ I / -H � . . TRI,►,,.R._�T ■ � � �+ ..�.�...' ..�.�..�. :.....•.....�..........•...........�.. ' �7�� GERALD FORD DR .....•.-.--..-.-.��.........................r............�...•; \ � � \ � � � � ; �I i� . �� ; scMou►a ur w sc -- � , -............. l, � \ ;T�I a�� C-R/H S ;�� Proposed i; GPA � i� I I \ , I �� IResorf/Hotel Commerclal(C-R/H) , To I i Publlc/Quasl-Publlc Instituilon (PF) � Clty o!Pa/m Dc�ert CBSA NO. OS-1 O puNN/NQ COMM/SS/ON RESOL UT/ON NO. 2 4 7 5 6ENERAL P�AN AMENDMENT EXH i B IT A oat�: _ May 20,_zooe_________ 8 � PLANNING COMMISSIuN RESOLUTION NO. 2475 ( EXHIBIT "B" CHANGE OF ZONE AMENDMENT EXHIBIT ,�• �_�• � ' ' \,// �,,,,,�� y► �� -� � � � -4 � � � �^ �- � �� / v� � � � _ ; i °0�,,�� ; � � � P.R.�S� � �--� � ��j"5�, ,�. � `" � `--1—� �� '—! ��• � 'i '� ' �N� —�RU�t OwANITA ORJ 1y1► , � �R '~ �� I �---i �l�� 1 _ � � i,� --1 , � : � '. � , I ; ', 1 ` i�uwe�s sT 1 � � � I ' I ' • • GERALD FORD DR 3 ' P.R.-5 P. I JP.R.-Jr se��ue u�w �� - � � �� ,- , � � � � , , ► � -�L-� ' i � �� ! Proposfd �; ; Zonin� � � � Chang� i� j ,;� 1 P.R.-5 �\\� / j Planned Res�dentlal 3(P.R.-S) � To � �i � Publlc lnstltution(P) , , / � Clty o!Palm Dcsert OS-10 pLqNN/NQ COMM/SSION Case No. ' Ci1ANGE OF tONE RESOLUT/ON NO. 2475 _ . ; �� EXHIBIT B Dato: ..MaY 20, 2008 - ---- -- 9 PLANNINC3 COMMISSIC� AESOLUTION NO. 2475 `. ' EXHIBIT "C" MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the California Code of Regulations. CASE NO�: GPA, C2, PP/CUP 08-10 APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR: City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION: Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit to allow construction of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totaling approximately 85,496 square feet. The project site is located on south side of Gerald ford drive, east of Monterey avenue and west of Portola avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of assessor's parcel number 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald ford drive. The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert� Califomia, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect.on the environment. A copy of the Initial Study has been attached to document the reasons in support of this finding. Mitigation measures, if any, included in the project to avoid potentially significant effects, may also be found attached. _� , -. " . ,• -!`"�-' ; .� MAY 20. 2008 LAURI AYLAIAN DATE DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT 10 '� (' � MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 20. 2008 B. Case No. PMW 08-104 - MERNE KELLEY AND IRONWOOD OWNERS ASSOC. I, Applicant Request for approval of Parcel Map Waiver 08-104 to allow east and south lot line adjustments for Lot 40 for building purposes on property located at 73-566 Fox Tail Lane. C. Case No. PMW 08-133 -MONTEREY GATEWAY PARTNERS, LLC, Applicant Request for approval of Parcel Map Waiver 08-133 to allow a lot line adjustment between Parcels 6 and 9 of Parcel Map No. 34843 for property located at 34-250 Gateway Drive. Action: It was moved by Commissioner Limont, seconded by Commissioner Campbell, approving the Consent Calendar by minute motion. Motion carried 4-0. IX. PUBLIC HEARINGS Anyone who challenges any hearing matter in court may be limited to raising only those issues he, she or someone else raised at the public hearing described herein, or in written correspondence delivered to the Planning Commission at, or prior to, the public hearing. Reports and documents relating to each of the following items listed on the agenda are on file in the Department of Community Development and are availab/e for public inspection during normal business hours, Monday-Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Deserf, CA 92260, (760) 346-0611. � A. Case Nos. GPA, C/Z AND PP/CUP 08-10 - PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE DEPARTMENT OF FACILITIES MANAGEMENT, Applicants Request for approval of a General Plan Amendment from Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) to Public/Quasi-Public Facilities (PF); a Change of Zone from Planned Residential-5 (PR-5) to Public Institution (P); a Precise Plan of Design and Conditional Use Permit to alfow the construction and operation 3 ( ( MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 20, 200$ of a new Riverside County Sheriff Station totally approximately 85,496 square feet with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad for emergency purposes, 470 parking spaces, a hazardous waste storage area, a fleet fueling station, wash bay for oversize vehicles and bioswales for stormwater pollution management. The project site is located on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive, east of Monterey and west of Portola Avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of APN 653-740-001, also known as 73-700 Gerald Ford Drive; and adoption of a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates to the project, pursuant to Section 15074 of the Califomia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). Mr. Bagato reviewed the project in detail. He indicated that there were a couple of changes to the Department of Public Works conditions of approval which had been distributed to Commission. Based on the findings and environmental review, staff recommended approval. With regard to Leed certification and new Title 24 mandates coming down, Commissioner Limont asked what the difference was between the two and if there was a significant difference. Mr. Bagato clarified that Title 24 just dealt with energy. Leed certification went beyond energy. Energy was part of it. Bioswales would help toward the Leed certification. It was using green products, recycled material, but that wasn't part of Title 24. Title 24 was California's Energy Code. Ms. Aylaian added that to get points toward Leed certification for energy conservation, energy had to be conserved above and beyond what was required by the local jurisdiction; therefore, if they used Palm Desert's very restrictive energy code as a starting point, they would get zero points towards Leed certification. They had to go above and beyond that and be even more energy conserving. Commissioner Limont asked if this project was up and above that. Ms. Aylaian explained that there were six different areas to earn points. Energy conservation was one of the areas. She didn't believe they could get Leed certification without earning points in each of the areas and suggested that perhaps the applicant could address that more in depth, but she thought they had some points in that category, which would mean they were even more energy conserving, or that they've used alternative forms of renewable energy sources in the design. Mr. Bagato also noted that they were providing solar panels on the rooftops. 4 � � ( MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 20� 2008 Chairperson Tanner thought this facility would not be an incarceration center, and asked if there would be holding cells. Mr. Bagato replied that there would be some holding cells for short-term, but it would not be a jail facility. Chairperson Tanner noted that the plan was only using a third of the area and asked if there were future plans. Mr. Bagato explained that the whole parcel is owned by the Redevelopment Agency (RDA). The ten acres under discussion would be sold to the County for the Sheriff's Station. The rest of the land was vacant and dedicated for commercial. He confirmed that all they were reviewing was the shaded area identifying the Sheriff's Station and the rest of the site was currently zoned for Planned Residential, but identified as Resort Commercial in the General Plan. It was all owned by RDA. Chairperson Tanner asked for and received confirmation that the hours were 24 hours, 7 days a week. Commissioner Limont asked if staff was using an assumption that the helicopter would be there 12 times a year. Mr. Bagato said that was correct. Commissioner Limont asked about the ones currently going overhead that were emergency vehicles and where they came from. Mr. Bagato said there was someone from the Sheriff's Station in the audience that could answer that, but he thought they came from Indio. Commissioner Limont asked if they would be coming from this new facility. They weren't infrequent. Mr. Bagato deferred to the Sheriff's Station representative. Commissioner Limont noted that there were condos next door and possible development on the other. Chairperson Tanner thought that was a good question for the applicant. Mr. Bagato stated that it was his understanding that there wouldn't be a helicopter housed at this new facility, it was just for emergency pu rposes. Chairperson Tanner o ned the public hearing and asked the applicant to address the Commission. MR. BOB WOLF, HDR Architects in Pasadena, stated that they are the architects on the project and he was present to answer any questions. He stated that there were no specific holding cells in the project. The only restraints were some handcuff rings on the benches, but there would be no cells built in the facility; that would throw it into a completely different category. Commissioner Campbell asked about the helicopter. 5 � � ( MINUTES PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION MAY 20. 2008 Mr. Wolf said the Sheriff's Department was represented, but believed that the fleet was based in Thermal. There would be no specific helicopter based at the proposed facility. LT. FRANK TAYLOR, Assistant Chief of Police for the City of Palm Desert, explained that the helicopters that currently fly in the valley were provided by the Sheriff's Department and by Califomia Highway Patrol. Both of them were housed regularly down in Thermal and they wouldn't be housed at the Palm Desert facility at any time. The new Thermal station, which was in the planning stages, had a hanger setup for the Sheriff's Department helicopter to be housed down at that location. He hoped that answered the question. Those were the only two in the valley on a regular basis. There were no other questions. Chairperson Tanner asked for testimony in FAVOR. There was none. He asked if there was any testimony in OPPOSITION. There was none and he closed the public hearing and asked for Commission comments. Commissioner Campbell thought it was a great location for the building and to have the facility here in Palm Desert. She moved for approval. Commissioner Limont thought it fit with the architecture in the area. She asked if this would be County property once it was approved. Mr. Bagato confirmed that it would belong to Riverside County. Commissioner Limont seconded the motion. Action: It was moved by Commissioner Campbell, seconded by Commissioner Limont, adopting the findings as presented by staff. Motion carried 4-0. It was moved by Commissioner Campbell, seconded by Commissioner Limont, adopting Planning Commission Resolution No. 2475, recommending to City Council approval of GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10, subject to conditions as amended, and a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates thereto. Motion carried 4-0. 6 ' � � �`�OF PLAIyN�, f .•�•�• N.�' � 7te1,1�� o STATE OF CALIFORNIA . , GOVERNOR'S OFFICE o PLANNING AND RESEARCH � � � , ' �,' f �,�.,��, STATE CLEARINGHOUSE AND PLANNING UNI'T ARAI�LD SCHWARZENEGGER �U BRY�T GOVSRNOR DIREGTOR May 20,2008 RE�'�'I��T�� Tony Bagato �� 2 � L{IW City of Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency 73-510 Fred Waring Drive ;OMMUNI'! �� ;;:.,.� .;;r.1'�i�N'F Palm Desert,CA 92260 ��;T;OF YALN OESERT Subject: Palm Desert Sheriff Station Project SCH#: 200804 1 1 03 Dear Tony Bagato: 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 May 19,2008,and the comments from the responding agency(ies)is(are)enclosed. If this comment package is not in order, please notify the State Clearinghouse unmediately. 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 wluch are required to be carried out or approved by the agency. Those comments shall be supported by specific documentation." These comments are forwarded for use in preparing your fmal environmental document. Should you need more information or clarification of the enclosed comments, we recommend that you contact the commenting agency d'uectly. T'his letter aclmowledges 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)445-0613 if you have any questions regarding the environmental review process. Sincerely, �`��— Terry Ro rts Director, State Clearinghouse Enclosures cc: Resources Agency 140010th Street P.O.Box 3044 Sacramento,California 95812-3044 (916}445-0613 FAX(916}323-3018 www.opr.ca.gov , � Document Details Report ,. State Clearinghouse Data Bas. SCH# 2008041103 Project Tltle Palm Desert Sheriff Station Project Lead Agency Palm Desert, City of Type MN Mitigated Negative Declaration DescrfpUon � The project is construction and operation of a new Sheriff Station of approximately 85,496 square feet with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad, parking for 470 vehicles, a fleet fueling station, wash bay for oversize vehicles and bioswales for stormwater pollution management. 6y 2025 staffing would consist of 350 sworn and 100 non-swom personnel for a total of 450. The helipad would be used intermittently for emergency purposes. General Plan land use designation would change to Public/Quasi Public Facifities(PF)and zoning woufd change to Public Institution (P). Lead Agency Contact Name Tony Bagato Agency City of Paim Desert Redevelopment Agency Phone (760)346-0611 ext.483 Fax email Address 73-510 Fred Waring Drive CTty Palm Desert State CA Zip 92260 Project Location County Riverside Clty Palm Desert Reglon Cross SUeets Gerald Ford Drive,east of Monterey Avenue and west of Portola Avenue Parcel No. 653-740-001 Townshlp 4S Range 6E SecUon 32 Base SBB&M Proximity to: Highways 74, I-10 Airports Railways Union Pacific Wa terways Schoo/s Land Use Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H); Planned Residential, 5 units per acre(PR 5) Project Issues AestheticNisual;Agricultura{Land;Air Quality;Archaeologic-Historic; Biological Resources; Cumulative Effects; Drainage/Absorption; Economics/Jobs;Geologic/Seismic; Growth Inducing; Landuse; Minerals; Noise; Population/Housing Balance; Public Services; Recreation/Parks; Sewer Capacity; Soil Erosion/Compaction/Grading; Solid Waste;Toxic/Hazardous;Traffic/Circulation; Vegetation;Water Quality;Water Supply;Wildlife Reviewing Resources Agency; Regional Water Quality Control Board, Region 7; Department of Parks and Agencies Recreation; Native American Heritage Commission; Public lltilities Commission; Office of Historic Preservation; Department of Fish and Game, Region 6; Department of Water Resources; Department of Conservation;Califomia Highway Patrol;Caltrans, District 8; Caltrans, Division of Aeronautics; Department of Toxic Substances Control Date Received 04/18/2008 Start of Rev/ew 04/18/2008 End of Review 05/19/2008 Note: Blanks in data fields result from insufficient information provided by lead agency. F n . � DEPA,�LTNIENT O��ANSPQ �.'A.'�ION DIVISION OF AETtONAUTICS—M.S.�+t40 1120 N 3'TREET P,O.BOX 442873 Flss yow�pnwer; SACRAMENTO.CA 94273-0001 8e rnsrgy q,(/lclenc. PHONE (916)654�959 �AX (916)653-9531 'Z'TY 711 . ,�p�� Zs, Zoog RECEfVED �I��r APR 2 9 2008 J I�_�� Mr. Tony Bagato � City of Palm Desett Rcdevelopment Agency 73-510 Prcd Waring Drive STATE CLEARING HOUSE Palzxx DescR, CA 92260 Dear Mr. Bagato: ' Ciry o��a1r�n Desert's Mitigaced Negative Declaration for the Palm Aesert Sheriff Stati.on with a Heliport; SC�#2008041103 '�'he California Dcpsrtmen.t o�Transportation(Caitrans),Division of Aezonautics (Divisio�), reviewed the above-referenced document with r�spect to airpon-relat�d noise and safety impacts and r�gional avi.ataon ]and use planning i.ssues pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act(CEQA). The Division.�as technical ex�crtise in the aress af sirport operations safoty and airport land use comparibility. W� arc a fundin.g agency for airport pr.ojects and we have permit authority for. public-use and spocial-use aixports and hcliports. The project is the construetion and opez�ation of a new Sherif�'Stallon with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftoQ h�lipad(�elipart), 470 parking spots, a fleet fueling station, and a wash bay for oversizo vehicles. The project site xs ae the southeast cornex of Gerald Ford Drive and Shadow Ridge Road. Califomia Code of Regulat�ons, Title 21, Sect�ons 3525 through 3560, Aarports and Hcliport, promulgates State rules and regulations for aiXports and holiports iz�Califomia. Although Che project heliport js described as "emezgency," it does not appear to meet the State definition of an emergency h�liport, and therefore will rcquire t}ae issuance of a State hela.pon permit by the Division. Additionally, thc size of che proposed heliport does not meet thc rnini.mum standards for the stated�elicopcer that will use the pad(i.e., "design" hclicopcex), which would roquire a pad approximately 36 feet square. Increasing the size of the pad would requir�e at least some nainor xevisions to the overall lxoj�ct sice plan. Thc applicant should be advised to contact the Division's Aviation Safety Officer for Riversido County, Jeff Brown, at(9�6)654-4565,for assistance with the State permit requirements. �nformation rcgarding the State heliport pernvit p�ocess is also available on-line at http:l/www.dot.ca.govlhqlplanning/aeronaut/heliportpermit.html. Pri.oar to issuing a State heliport pexzni.t, the Division,must be assured tha[the progosal i.s in full complian.ce with CEQ�. To ensure that the eommunity will not be adversely impacted by heIicoptcr operations,flight paths should avoid noise-sensitive and peo�le intensi.ve uses. ,f�ccording to the Negative Dcclaration. (ND), the heliport will be used"infrequencly, at an estimated rate of once a month.or. less." Mitigation Measure N-2 states that heIicoptex take-off and landings from the facility wi�l avoid residential arcas to the greatest extent possible, and the Sheriff's Department will comply with all Feder.al Aviallon Regulations. Con.sider,acion given to thE issuc of com.pati.ble land uses in the vicirlity of a hel.iport should hel� to relicvc futurc conflicts between the heliport and i.ts neighbors. We request that [tie applicant provide detuled diagrarns �!',altrmi.r intprnvea mabilrry at�4fs Cct!{/omla" . i , ' Mr. Tony Bagato Apria 28, 2008 . Pagc 2 show�ng thc proposcd landing sitc and the approach and departure f�iight paths and their proxinoity to any existing or proposed noxsa sensitive or people intcnsive uses should be provided. �'he proposed flight paths sh.ould also not overtly thc�roposed fuel tanks. Califoznia Public Utilities Code Section 2�659 prohibits structural hazards near ai:por.ts and helipores. Str.uctures should not be at a height thac will result in penetration of the appmach �xnaginary surfaces. Exhibit 7 in thc ND portrayed a 20:1 obsrcvction clearanee surface. This imaginary surfacc, presuza�ably th�heliport "approach sur�ace" should be an 8:1 slope. Although stecper than the surface cuz�ntly depicted, the parlcing Iot tigh.ts and pmject Iandseapin�,need to be selected and located so thcy do not penetrate any of. the heliport inoaginary surfaccs. If the heli�ort is planned for opera�ion prior to comp)etion of the latez phases of construction activities, im�pacts to the heliport iu�naginary surfaces from tem�orary construction-re).ated impacts should also bo idendfied. The Federa�Aviation Admitistration (FAA)may xequire the filiung of a Notico of Proposed Construction or Alteration (Fo.�rm 7464-1)for cextain projcct-spec�c activitics in accordataco with Federal Aviation Regulations Paxc 77 "Objccts Affeccamg Navigable AiXspace:' Form 7460-1 is available ai https://oeaaa.faa.gov/oeaae/excernaUportal jsp and should bc submitted elcctronically. �'he FAA will require the filing of a Nohce o�Landing Area�Xoposal (Form 7480-�). A eopy of the form is avai�ahl.e on the FAA,website at http:/lwww.faa.gov/ARP/ane/for.nas17480-1.pdf. The�roposal z�aust be submitted to the Riverside County Air�wrt Land iJse Commission (ALUC) fo.r consideration. Thcse comments Xefleet the areas of coneern to the Divi.s�on with res�ect to aizport-related noise and safety impacts and regional airport land use planning issues. We advisc you to contact our Cal�ans District 8 officc concerni.ng surfaee traasportation issues. Thank you foz the opportunity to zeview and comment on.this proposal. If you have any quesdons, pleasc call me at(916) 654-5314. Sincerely, Orsginal Si�ted by . SA�TDY HESNARD Aviation Environrnental Specialist c: State Clearinghouse, Riverside County ALUC 'Calt�an�ttnproues mob�lixy acm,u�CaliTornra" � � '. STATE OF G ��FORWI♦ Amold Schrarzeneoaet(3nv�rep[ NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION 91 S CAPITOL MALL,ROOM S64 SACRAMENTO,CA�6814 (916)85&6261 Fnt(ots)66T-6.990 Web Slts�pel.pehG.�A,pQY smail:ds_nehcQpacbell.nd RECEIVED C��dr May 1, 2008 �(q-0� MAY - s Zoos � Mr.Tony Bagato,Prinapal Planner C�TY oF PALM DESERT STATE CLEARING HOUSE 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert,CA 92260 Re: �CH#2008041103: CE(]A Notice of Comoletion:Miti�ated Ne�ative Declaration for the Riverside CounN Sherriff Substation:located in the Citv of Patm Desert: Rivecside Countv.Catifomia Dear Mr. Bagato: The Native American Heritage Commission is the state agency designated to protect C�ifomia's Native American Cultural Resourc�s. The CaGfornia Ernironmer�l QuaYty Act(CE(JA)requires tt�at any project that causes a substantial adverse change in the signficance of an hisbrical resource,that indudes archaeologcal reso�rces, is a'signficarrt effect' requiring the preparation of an Environmerrtal Impact Report(EIR)per the Califomia Code of Regulations§15064.5(b)(c(CE(aA guidelines).Section 15382 of the 2007 CE(aA Guidelines defines a signficaM impad on the ernironmerrt as'a substa�al,or potentia�y sub�ar�tial,adverse c�ange in any of pfiysical condtions witliin an area.af�Cted by the proposed projec* induding...objects of historic or aesthetic significance." In order b�comply wiU�ttrs provision,the lead agency is required bo assess whgther the project will have an adverse impad on these resourc�s w+thin the'area of potential efFect(APEr,and iF so,to mitigaee fhat e4fed To adequatey assess the projec�relabed impacbs on hisborical resourc�s,the Commissian recarunends the fdlowing action: �l Contad the appropria�e Califomia Hisboric Resouroes Information Cer�ter(CHRIS)for passible'reoorded si6es'in locations where the developrnerrt will or might occur.. Conlad information ior the I�onna�Uon Cer�Der nearest you is available from the State Office of Historic Preaervation(916/653-7278)/htto://www.oh�.aarks.ca.aov.The record search will determine: ■ If a part or the entire APE has been previously suroeyed fnr cuttural resources. ■ If any known cuRural resources have already been recorded in or adjacent bo the APE. - ■ If the probability is low, moderabe,or high tt�at cuRural resourr:es are located in fhe APE. ■ If a survey is required bo determine whether previousty unrecorded ailtural resouroes are preser�t d lf an archaedogic�l imentory suney is required,the final stage is the preQaration M a professionat report detaili�g the fin�ngs and recommendations of fhe records search and field survey. ■ The final report carrtaining site forms,site significance,and miUgation measurers should be submitted immediately to the planning depefinent All infoRnation regarding sibe locations, Native American human remains,and associabed funerary objec�should be in a separabe oonfiderdial adden�m,and not be made availeble for pubic�sdosure. ■ The final writben repo�t should be submiUed wittiin 3 months after work has been completed�o the appropriate regional archaeological Information Center. � Contad the Native American Herihage Commission(NAHC)for. ' A Sacred Lands Fde(SLFj search of tfie projed area and information on tribal contac�s in the project viardty tftat may have addtional a�tb�r�resource intom�ation_Please provide this office with the following atation fortnat to agsist with the Sacred Lands Rle search request USGS 7.�minute auadran�le citation with name.tnwnshi�. ran9e and section: _ ■ The NAHC advises the use of Native American Motritas b ensure Fxoper ide�on and care gven culbural resources that may be discavered. The NAHC recanmends tt�at cor�ad be made wilh N�tive American Corrtachs o�the attached list to get their input on pote�lal projed lmpad(APE). In some cases,the existence of a Native American cufhiral resouroes may be knawn ony tio a local tribe(s). d Lack of surtace evidence af archeological resources does not predude their subsurface existence. • Lead agencies should indude in their mitigation plan provisions ior the iderfification and evaluation of acadentaliy d�scovered archeologic�l resourc:es,per Cal'ifomia Ernironmerdal Quality Ad(CE(aA)§15064.5(�. In areas of ide�fied arGhaeola�cal ser�tivRy, a certified archaedo�st and a cx►Ifiuralty affdiated Native American,with Ivwwledge in adhual resources,shouid monibor aY grounddishirbing ac6vities. ■ A cuituraly-affdia�bed Native American tribe may be the oNy souroe af information about a Sacred SibeMative American cuttural resource. • Lead agenaes should indude in thei�mfigation plan provisions for fhe dsposition of recovered artifacts, in consulCation with culturaliy affiliated Native Americans. � �, (. � Lead agenaes should indude provisions for discovery of Native American human remains or unmarked cemeteries in their mfigation plans. ' CEC�A Guidelines, Section 15064.5(d) requires the lead agency to work with the Natinre Americans identified by this Commission if the initial Study identifles the presence or Ukely presence of Native American human remains within the APE. CE(�A Guidelines provide for agreements with Native American, identified by the NAHC,to assure the appropriate and dignified treatment of Native American human remains and any associated grave liens. �1 Health and Safety Code§7050.5, Public Resources Code§5097.98 and Sec.§15064_5(d)of the Califomia Code of Regulations(CE(aA Guidelines)mandate procedures to be foHowed,indu�ng tt�at c�nstruction or excavation be stopped in the event of an acadental discovery of any human remains in a location otfier than a dedicated cemetery until the counly coroner or medical examiner can determine whether the remains are those of a Native American. . Note that§7052 of the Health 8�Safety Code shates that disburbance of Native American cemeteries is a felony. � L�ad aoenaes should consider avadance.as defined in 615370 of the Califomia Code of Re�ulations(CEQA Guidetinesl.when siardficant cutbural resourc�es are dscovered durin�the oourse of�roiect dannina and imdementation � Please feel free cor�d me at(9'16)653-6251 if you have any quesCions. 'nce ty, Dave Sin�eto Program Anatyst Attachment Ust of Native American Contacts Cc: State Clearinghouse � � �tive American Conta�ts ( Riverside County May 1, 2008 Cabazon Band of Mission Indians Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians John A. James, Chairperson Raymond Torres, Chairperson 84245 Indio Springs Parkway Cahuilla PO Box 1160 Cahuilia Indio . CA 9�-� Thermal . CA 92274 (760) 342-2593 (760) 397-0300 (760) 347-7880 Fax (760) 397-8146 Fax Cahuilla Band of Indians ToRes-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Anthony Madrigal, Jr., Chairperson Emest Morreo P.O. Box 391760 Cahuilla PO Box 1160 Cahuilla Anza , CA 92539 Thermal , CA 92274 tribaloouncii@cahuilla.net maxtm@aol.com (951) 763-2631 (760) 397-0300 (760) 397-8146 Fax (951) 763-2632 Fax Los Coyotes Band of Mission Indians Santa Rosa Band of Mission Indians Katherine Saubel, Spokesperson John Marcus, Chairman P.O. Box 189 Cahuiila P.O. Box 609 Cahuilla Wamer . CA 92086 Hemet � CA 92546 losooyotes@earthlink.net srtribaloffioe@aol.00m (760) 782-0711 (951) 658-5311 (760) 782-2701 - FAX (951) 659-6733 Fax Ramona Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians Augustine Band of Cahuilla Mission Indians Joseph Hamilton, vice chairman Mary Ann Green, Chairperson P.O. Box 391670 Cahuilla P.O. Box 846 Cahuilla Anza � CA 92539 Coachelta � CA 92236 admin@ramonatribe.com (760) 369-7171 (951) 763-4105 760-369-7161 (951) 763-4325 Fax Thls Ilst Is cument only es of the date of thta dxumerrt. Dlstrib�Abn of thls Ifst does rat refleve any person oi smditory responslbtllty ae de[ined In Sectlon TO50.5 of the Heatth and Safety Code,Sectlon 509T.94 of the Publlc Resouroes Code and Sec.Klon 509T.98 ot the Publlc Resources Code. Thla liet Is ony applfcabfe for oo�cUng local Nstive Amaricen with reQerd to cultural resources for the proposed, SCFIf2008041103;CE�IA NoUoe of Compfetlon;Mttlgated Negative Declaratbn;EA OB250003764;Palm Desert Sherltt 3ub�Uon;City of Palm DeaeR;Rlvers(de County,Callfomla. CIT` , OF R �IC MIR� ,�E �> � � � -. . . - . � May 16, 2008 � _.,. � ---- .- _� ;� NA� 1 � 2006 Mr. Tony Bagato, Principal Planner „p��,� . ... . . .......+�F'uT City of Palm Desert , : �` =';��'�ESERT Planning Department 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Dear Mr. Bagato, The City of Rancho Mirage has received and reviewed the proposed Mitigated Negative Declaration for the new Sheriff Station project. We understand the project to consist of a 85, 000 square foot building with helipad and several hundred parking spaces on a 10 acre site on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive, approximately midway between Monterey and Portola Avenues. The CEQA documentation appears complete with appropriate mitigation measures incorporated into the project. The City of Rancho Mirage has no substantive comments at this time. The project will enhance the cities ability to provide law enforcement services for our growing communities . Please forward a copy of the staff report when it becomes available. Thank you, � � _ �� /L�'L--r�i'� �' / Randy Bynder, AICP Community Development Director ADMIfVIC i RATIOfV CvMMUIVITV UEVELODf+lE�7T rlfYAfY�:E; HOUSiIrG AL'TH�'iR�TY PUDLIC �iDRARY PUDLiC WORKC i61 'i6Ui 324-•l51 1 ��el :760? 3�8�?'lfifi T��I 17fi0� 'I,'lL:i2(;I ��i ,%(ii�, 7I�)32!�:) r�� i�RU; 3•7' 7:�23 �el �,'6C1;• i r 0:i22•3 . i�ax. ;�76iii 32��St3�;0 i-[�lt_ �7G0! "i?;1�Jd�i Fz3x �i�SUI ��2�1�0�2f3 F.lx i�i6(i) IIG�;3:�'6� f��;x. �76C! J-�1 �G13 F1�x 176Q) 77Q 32b1 � 69-825 f+tGFFWAY ',11 2AfYCF+O MIRAGE. CA 92270 www.c� rancho-�7�ira��e ca us . � � 8TATE OF GAL IFORNI� _ Amdd Schrarianeeaer_G o ve rn or NATIVE AMERICAN HERITAGE COMMISSION 916 CAPfTOL MALL,ROOM 36� r BACRA�NiO,CA 968/4 �� s�esa-ers� Fax(91�6ti7-6.900 Web Sit��eoeoet.�.c�,�uY smNl:ds_�hc�pacbell.net May 1,2008 Mr. Tony Bagato,Principal Planner CITY OF PALM DE3ERT 73�10 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Re: SCH*2008041103:CEOA Notice of Comdetion:Mitis�ated Ne9ative Dedaration for the Riverside Countv Sherriff Substation:located in the Citv of Palm Desert Riverside Countv.Califomia Dear Mr.Bagato: The Native American Heritage Commission is the state agenry designabed to proted Califomia's Native American Cuttural Resources. The Calif�omia EnvironmeMal�uality Ad(CEQA)requires that any projed that causes a substantial adverse change in the signficance of an historical resource,that indudes archaeologcal resources,is a'signficant eflect'requiring the preparation of an Environmental Impact Report{EIR)per the Califomia Code of RegWations§15064.5(bxc(CEQA guidelines).Section 15382 of the 2007 CEQA Guidelines defines a signi6c:arn impac�on the ernironmeM as'a subs�ntial,or potentiaYy sub�tar�tial,adverse change in any of physical condfions wiltin an area atfecbed by the proposed project,indu�ng...objec�of historic or aesthetic significance.' In order bo oomply with this provision,fhe lead agency is required Lo assess vvhe�t►er the projed will have an adverse impad on fhese resources within the'area d potential etfect(APE)',and iF so,to mi�gabe that el�ect. To adequa�ely assess the projecFrelabed impac6a on histwical resources,the Commiseion reooRwnends the fdlowing acton_ � Contad tfie appropriabe Caaforr�ia FYsboric Resour�ces Infom�a6on Cenber(CHRIS)for possible'reoorded sibes'in locations where the developmerrt vMll w might occuc_ Contad infom�aition for the Irdwmation Cenber nearest you is available from the State Office of Historic Preservation(916/653-7278�htt�://www.oh�.narks.ca.aov.The record search will determine: ■ If a part or the entire APE has been previousiy surveyed for culbural resouroes. • If any known cultural resou�ces have akeady beer�recorded in or adjacerrt tio the APE_ ■ If the probability is low, moderate,or high that a�ihiral resources are locabed in the APE_ • If a survey is required bo determine whe4her previousiy unrecorded cultural resources are present � If an ar�haeo{ogcal inve�ory survey is required,the final stage is the preperation of a professional report detailing the fir�ngs and recammendations d the reoords sear�h and 5eld survey- • The firral report corKainmg si6e forms,sibe signiicance,and rtwbga6on measureis should be submitted immediately b�the planning department All information regarang siEe locations,Native Americ;an human remains,and associated funerary objec�stwuld be in a separabe oonfidential addendum,and not be made available for pubic�sdosure. ■ The final writben report sfw��d be submitDed vNttw�3 mordhs atber wak has been c�ompie�ed m�e apptop�iabe regional archaedogical Information Cenber. J Contad the Na�ve Arneric�n Herirage Commission(NAHC)tor. ' A Sacr+ed Lands File(SLF)search of the projed area and iniormation on tribal contacbs in the project vianily lhat may have addfional a�tural resouroe infomrabon. Please pravide this office with the fdlowing atation format tio assi4t wilh the Sacred Lands Fde search reque�t USCS 7.�minuMs ausd�ar►de citation wiit�name.bownshio.ranae and section: _ � The NAHC advises the use d Na6ve American Monibo�s to ensure proper identficaUon and care gven culhua! resources that may be discavered The NAFIC reoortKnends U�ait conFad be made wilh f�tive American Cot�c�ts on the a�ed I�St�o get tfieir input on potential project impad(APE). In some r.ases,the existence of a Native M�ericen a�ldual resouroes may be Ia�oMm oNy�o a local tribe(s). J Ladc of sufiace evide�ce d arr;heologcal resouroes does not predude U►eir subsurfaoe existence. ■ Lead agencies shaild i�chide in their rtti�a6on pian provisions for the identification and evaluation of acadentaYy disco�rered archeobgicai resources,per California Ernironme�l�uaYty Ad(CEOA)§15064.5(�. In areas af ider�fied archaedogcal sen�i0vity,a certified ard�aeolo�jst and a ailhiraly s�ed Native American,with Iviowledge in cx�hual resources,shaild monibor ar gour��sburbing adivides_ ■ A cutQ�rally-affiiated NaUve American tribe may be the oNy souroe af irdormaUon aba�t a Saa�ed SiGaMative American cx�lbural resource. ■ Lead agencies should indude in the�miOgation plan provisions for the dtsposiUon of recovered artifacls, in consuMation wilh c�turaNy af6liated Native Americans. � (� l �l Lead agenass should indude 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 witl�the Native Americans identified by this Commission ii the initial Study identifies the presence or likely presence of Native American human remains within the APE. CE(]A Guideii�es provide for agreemeMs with Native American, identified by tfie NAHC,to assure the appropriate and c�gnfied treatment of Native American human remains and any assocc:iated grave liens. � Heaith and Safety Code§7050.5,PuWic Resources Code§50A7.98 and Sec.§15064_5(d)of the Califomia Code of Regulations(CE(aA Guidelines)marxiabe procedures to be fdlawed,induang that oor�struction or excavation be stopped in the event of an acadental discovery of any human remains in a location other than a deacabed cemetery until the counly coroner or medcal examiner can determine whether the remains are those of a Native American. . Note that§7052 dthe Fleailh 8 Safely Code stabes fhat d�sturbance af Native American cemeUeries is a felony. �! Lead aaerxies stwuld�onsider avoidance.as defined in 615370 of the Caafornia Code of Reflulations lCEAA GuideY�sl_wt�an ai�iRcant a�hual�esources are ascavered durirw tt�e course of oroied dannin�and ir�demer�tation Please feel iree to at(916)65.36251 if you have any ques6ons. � cer Dave Singleton Program Maiyst Attachme� List of Native American CoMacts Cc: State Geadnghouse • �"�tive American Contacts �� ;, Riverside County May 1, 2008 Morongo Band of Mission Indians Michael Contreras, Cultural Resources-Project 49750 Seminole Drive Cahuilla Cabazon � CA 92230 Senano (951) 755-5206 (951) 922-8146 Fax Torres-Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Dian Chihuahua, Cultural Resouroes Coordinator P.O. Boxt 1160 Cahuilla Thermal . CA 92274 cuttural monitor@yahoo.com 760) 39�-0300 (760) 275-2686-CELL (760) 397-8146 Fax Cabazon Band of Mission Indians Judy Stapp, Director of Cultural Affairs 84-245 Indio Springs Parkway Cahuilla Indio � CA 9�-� Iweaver@cabazonindians.org (760) 342-2593 (760) 347-7880 Fax Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians THPO Richard Begay, Tribal Historic Perservation Officer 5401 Dinah Shore Drive Cahuilla Palm Sp�ings . CA 92264 (76�) 325-3400 �Eut 6906t (760) 699-6800 (760) 699-6925- Fax mIs Itst b curro�t only as or the dste of this docwne�t. Dlatrlbutfon of thls list does not relbve any person of smtutwy respo�sibHiry ss deflned In Sectbn 7050.5 ot the HeaHh and Seletp Code.Secfion 5097.94 of the PubNc Reswr�ces Code snd Se�tbn 5097.98 of the PuDllc Ftesot�ces Code. Thls Ilat Is only eppllcabls for confa�Unp local N�tive Amsrfcan�rMh reprd b cd4ral re�oueas ior the propwed, SCF{f200B041103;CEOA Notice d Complefbn:I�tlpeled Ne�Uvs Dedarallon;EA 0825000C�761:PaMn De�at Sherlff Substatloo;Clty of Palm Desa�Rfve�alda Countr.CaH�orni� ST�A1'E OF CALIFORNIA—BUSINESS TRANSPORTAT'ION AND HOUSING AGENCY ARVOLD SCHWARZENLGGER.Governor � DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPO�..ATION � DIVISION OF AERONAUTICS—M.S.#40 11201V STREET P. O. BOX 942873 Flex your powrr! SACRAMENTO,CA 94273-0001 Be energy e/�'i�irrtt� PHONE (916)654-4959 FAX (916)653-9531 TTY 711 Apri128, 2008 Mr. Tony Bagato City of Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Dear Mr. Bagato: City of Palm Desert's Mitigated Negative Declaration for the Palm Desert Sheriff Station with a Heliport; SCH#2008041103 The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division of Aeronautics (Division), reviewed the above-referenced document with respect to airport-related noise and safety impacts and regional aviation land use planning issues pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Division has technical expertise in the areas of airport operations safety and airport land use compatibility. We are a funding agency for airport projects and we have permit authority for public-use and special-use airports and heliports. The project is the construction and operation of a new Sheriff Station with a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad (heliport), 470 parking spots, a fleet fueling station, and a wash bay for oversize vehicles. The project site is at the southeast corner of Gerald Ford Drive and Shadow Ridge Road. California Code of Regulations, Title 21, Sections 3525 through 3560, Airports and Heliport, promulgates State rules and regulations for airports and heliports in California. Although the project heliport is described as "emergency," it does not appear to meet the State definition of an emergency heliport, and therefore will require the issuance of a State heliport permit by the Division. Additionally, the size of the proposed heliport does not meet the minimum standards for the stated helicopter that will use the pad (i.e., "design" helicopter), which would require a pad approximately 36 feet square. Increasing the size of the pad would require at least some minor revisions to the overall project site plan. The applicant should be advised to contact the Division's Aviation Safety Officer for Riverside County, Jeff Brown, at (916) 654-4565, for assistance with the State permit requirements. Information regarding the State heliport permit process is also available on-line at http://www.dot.ca.gov/hq/planning/aeronaut/heliportpermit.html. Prior to issuing a State heliport permit, the Division, must be assured that the proposal is in full compliance with CEQA. To ensure that the community will not be adversely impacted by helicopter operations, flight paths should avoid noise-sensitive and people intensive uses. According to the Negative Declaration (ND), the heliport will be used"infrequently, at an estimated rate of once a month or less." Mitigation Measure N-2 states that helicopter take-off and landings from the facility will avoid residential areas to the greatest extent possible, and the Sheriff's Department will comply with all Federal Aviation Regulations. Consideration given to the issue of compatible land uses in the vicinity of a heliport should help to relieve future conflicts between the heliport and its neighbors. We request that the applicant provide detailed diagrams "Callrmu irrtproves mobility across Califontia" !. i, � Mr. Tony Bagato April 28, 2008 Page 2 showing the proposed landing site and the approach and departure flight paths and their proximity to any existing or proposed noise sensitive or people intensive uses should be provided. The proposed flight paths should also not overfly the proposed fuel tanks. California Public Utilities Code Section 21659 prohibits structural hazards near airports and heliports. Structures should not be at a height that will result in penetration of the approach imaginary surfaces. Exhibit 7 in the ND portrayed a 20:1 obstruction clearance surface. This imaginary surface, presumably the heliport "approach surface" should be an 8:1 slope. Although steeper than the surface currently depicted, the parking lot lights and project landscaping need to be selected and located so they do not penetrate any of the heliport imaginary surfaces. If the heliport is planned for operation prior to completion of the later phases of construction activities, impacts to the helipoR imaginary surfaces from temporary construction-related impacts should also be identified. The Federal Aviation Administration (FA�4) may require the filing of a Notice of Proposed Construction or Alteration (Form 7460-1) for certain project-speci�c activities in accordance with Federal Aviation Regulations Part 77 "Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace." Form 7460-1 is available at https://oeaaa.faa.govloeaaa/externallportal.jsp and should be submitted electronically. The FAA will require the filing of a Notice of Landing Area Proposal (Form 7480-1). A copy of the form is available on the FAA website at http://www.faa.gov/ARP/ane/forms/7480-1.pdf. The proposal must be submitted to the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) for consideration. ' These comments reflect the areas of concern to the Division with respect to airport-related noise and safety impacts and regional airport land use planning issues. We advise you to contact our Caltrans District 8 office concerning surface transportation issues. Thank you for the opportunity to review and comment on this proposal. If you have any questions, please call me at (916) 654-5314. Sincerely, ��• L � �.f"��U� U SAND SNARD Aviation Environmental Specialist c: State Clearinghouse, Riverside County ALUC "Caltrans improues mobility across California° �.. �. CITY OF PALM DESERT INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM TO: Department of Community DevelopmenbPlanning Attention: Tony Bagato FROM: Phil Joy, Associate Transportation Planner SUBJECT: PP 8-10 RDA Sheriff Station-Conditions of Approval DATE: February 8, 2008 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS 1. All landscape maintenance shall be performed by the property owner and the applicant shall enter into a landscape maintenance agreement with the city for the life of the project, consistent with the Municipal Code and the approved landscape plan. 2. A complete preliminary soils investigation, conducted by a registered soils engineer, shall be submitted to, and approved by, the Department of Public Works prior to the issuance of a grading permit. BONDS AND FEES 3. Signalization fees, in accordance with City of Palm Desert Resolution Nos. 79-17 and 79-55, shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permit. 4. The project shall be subject to Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF ) Payment of said fees shall be at the time of building permit issuance. 5. A standard inspection fee shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permits. 6. Drainage fees, in accordance with Section 26.49 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code shall be paid prior to issuance of grading permits. DESIGN REQUIREMENTS 7. Storm drain design and construction shall be contingent upon a drainage study prepared by a registered civil engineer that is reviewed and approved by the Department of Public Works prior to start of construction. 8. Complete grading and improvement plans and specifications shall be submitted to Public Works for checking and approval prior to permit issuance. 9. Any and all offsite improvements shall be preceded by the approval of plans and the issuance of valid encroachment permits by the Department of Public Works. 10. Pad elevations are subject to review and modification in accordance with Chapter 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. i (. 11. Landscape installation shall be drought tolerant in nature and in accordance with the City s Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance (24.04 ) . 12. Landscape plans shall be submitted for review concurrently with grading plans. 13. Full public improvements, as required by Section 26 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code, shall be installed in accordance with City standards including: , Dedication and improvement of Gerald Ford Drive with a 75' half street section including 42' pavement width with a 5 to 1 taper easterly, 24' parkway with 8' sidewalk-minimum 4' back from curb. � A left turn lane entering the easternmost driveway. � Rights-of-way necessary for the installation of the above referenced improvements shall be dedicated to the city prior to the issuance of any permits associated with this project. CONSTRUCTION REQUIREMENTS 94. All public and private improvements shall be inspected by the Department of Public Works and no occupancy permit shall be granted until the improvements have been completed. 15. Applicant shall comply with provisions of Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 24.12, Fugitive Dust Control as well as Section 24.20, Storm water Management and Discharge Control. 16. Prior to the start of construction, the applicant shall submit satisfactory evidence to the Director of Public Works of intended compliance with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES ) General Construction Permit for storm water discharges associated with construction. Developer must contact Riverside County Flood Control District for informational materials. SPECIAL CONDITIONS 17. Westernmost driveway shall be offset to reduce conflicts with the Shadow Ridge driveway and eastern 18. Slopes within project shall not exceed 3 : 1, and 2% within 12' of the street. 19. Agreements shall be made where conditions pertain to permit issuance and certificate of occupancy if other arrangements are made and the city is not the lead agency in these areas. Phil Joy , � i' � CITY OF PALM DESERT �� ART IN PUBLIC PLACES INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM To: Tony Bagato, Principai Planner From: Deborah Schwartz, Public Art Coordinator Date: 01/30/08 Subject: Case No. PP 07-11 The Art In Public Places Department recommends that the public art fee for case number GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10, the Riverside County Sheriff Station (55,294 square feet for the station and 20,471 for a evidence warehouse for a total of 75,765 square feet) be used for an onsite public art project. We estimate that the total fee, 1%, is at minimum $45,500 and feel that this amount will allow for an appropriate public art project. � r . �'�'� CITY OF PALM DESERT � � BUILDING & SAFETY DEPARTMENT INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM To: Tony Bagato, Planning Manager From: Sam Szymanski, Senior Plans Examiner Date: January 30, 2008 Subject: GPA, CR, PP/CUP 0&10 I have reviewed the information provided and have the following comments: 1. The project must conform to the current State of California Codes. The following are the codes enforced at this time: 2007 CALIFORNIA BUILDING CODE (Based on 2006 IBC) 2007 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE (Based on 2006 UMC) 2007 CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE (Based on 2006 UPC) 2007 CALIFORNIA ELECTRICAL CODE (Based on 2005 NEC) 2007 CALIFORNIA ENERGY CODE 2007 CALIFORNIA BUILDING STANDARDS ADMINISTRATIVE CODE 2007 CALIFORNIA FIRE CODE 2. Compliance with Ordinance 1124, Local Energy Efficiency Standards. The requirements are more restrictive than the 2007 California Energy Code. Please obtain a copy of the Ordinance for further information. 3. All contractors and subcontractors shall have a current City of Palm Desert Business License prior to permit issuance per Palm desert Municipal Code, Title 5. (If applicable) 4. All Government Entities must comply with ADA Title II. oocumemt �--- �.. . AG �JA CALIENTE fs�AND OF CAHUILLA INUTANS ir-.it��i_ HiSr-,�a�c PK��E�..,�iu.ti January 28, 2008 ''�` ""� = �T��'�� • Tony Bagato ��i�l C ;i C�� Project Planner City of Palm Dese�t ;OMML�CI'� IJE':ELUPM1it:;. ��;r.�_ ;IyENT 73-510 Fred Waring drive CITY OF PALM DESERT Palm Desert, CA 92260 RE: General Plan Amendment No. 08-10, Palm Desert, Riverside County, CA. Dear Mr. Bagato: The Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians appreciates your efforts to include the Tribal Historic Preservation Office (THPO) in your project. The project referenced above is not within Reservation boundaries however, it is on lands included within the Tribal Traditional Use Area. We currently have no concerns with the project as planned. However, if during the course of the project, human remains are discovered, all activities near the burial must cease, and the remains must be protected from further impact. If the remains are determined to be Native American, please contact the THPO for further consultation. Again, the Agua Caliente Tribe appreciates your interest in our cultural heritage. If you have questions or require additional information, please call me at (760) 699-6907. You may also email me at ptuck(�a,aguacaliente.net. Cordially, ��' �� Patricia Tuck, Archaeologist Tribal Historic Preservation Office AGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAHUILLA INDIANS c: Agua Caliente Cultural Register X:\Consult Correspondence�20081Extemal\Traditonal Use Area\PalmDesert_S618_GPA08-10_01_23_OS.doc , . ; , . � _ _. . . , � . ` ( ` Vj AT Eq ESTABLISHED IN 1918 AS A PUBLIC A�eNCY ��sTR�C� COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT POST OFFICE BOX 1058 • COACHELLA,CALIFORNIA 92236•TELEPHONE(760)398-2651 • FAX(760)398-3711 DIRECTORS: OFFICERS: PETER NELSON,PRESIDENT STEVEN B.ROBBINS, PATRICIA A.LARSON,VICE PRESIDENT GENERAL MANAGER-CHIEF ENGINEER TELLIS CODEKAS MARK BEUHLER, USSELL K TAHARA January 24� ZOOH JULIA FERNANDEZ�,SECRE ARY DAN PARKS,ASSL TO GENERAL MANAGER REDWINE AND SHERRILL,ATTORNEYS File: 0163.1 0421.1 � :_ -. � -,�r�r�� 0721.1 , ��.� ,'.; ; �� Tony Bagoto Y " �— Department of Community Development �a � r 2Q� City of Palm Desert 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 '��'�i�j'�Y'QFA'At,e��Sr�B'r n��xT Dear Mr. Bagoto: Subject: GPA, C/2, PP/CUP 08-10 This area is designated Zone C on Federal Flood Insurance rate maps, which are in effect at this time by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Drainage from this area is contributory to the Mid-Valley Stormwater Project. The city may require mitigation measures to be incorporated into the development to prevent flooding of the site or downstream properties. These measures may include on-site retention of water from the 100-yeaz storm, dedication of right-of-way for regional flood control facilities or other participation in the financing of regional flood control facilities. This project lies within the Study Area Boundary of the Coachella Valley Water Management Plan (September 2002). The District will provide domestic water and sanitation service to this area and such service will be subject to the satisfaction of terms and conditions established by the District and exercised from time to time, including but not limited to fees and charges, water conservation measures, etc. This notice of domestic water and sanitation service availability can only be used and relied upon for the specific property for which it was issued and shall expire three (3) years from date of issuance. Domestic water and sanitation service remains at all times subject to changes in regulations adopted by the District's Board of Directors including reductions in or suspensions of service. TRUE CONSERVATION USE WATER WISELY , �. �.... Tony Bagoto Department of Community Development City of Palm Desert 2 January 24, 2008 Plans for grading, landscaping and irrigation systems shall be submitted to the District for review. This review is for ensuring efficient water management. The project lies within the Upper Whitewater River Subbasin Area of Benefit. Groundwater production within the area of benefit is subject to a replenishment assessment in accordance with the State Water Code. All water wells owned or operated by an entity producing more than 25 acre-feet of water during any year must be equipped with a water-measuring device. A District Water Production Metering Agreement is required to ensure District staff regularly read and maintain this water- measuring device. If you have any questions, please call Tesfaye Demissie, Stormwater Engineer, extension 2605. Yours v ry , �l/ � Mark L. Johnson Director of Engineering cc: Pa1m Desert Redevelopment Agency 73-510 Fred Waring Drive Palm Desert, CA 92260 Jeff Johnson Riverside County Department of Public Health 38-686 El Cemto Road Palm Desert, CA 92211 TD:md\eng�sw\08\jan\GPA-Ci2 040632-1 COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT ( � ��•�� CITY OF PALM DESERT � � COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT . INTEROFFICE MEMORAN�UM � ' � ;�:fl 2 :; «:; �`,'.� • , , � ',!�tiT TO: T(31�BAGATO, PRINCIPAL PLANNER ��rL�r�F�;.,�i,.��;,,E�LKT FROM: FRANKIE RIDDLE, DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROGRAMS SUBJECT: GPA, C/Z, PP/CUP 08-10 DATE: JANUARY 24, 2008 The subject plans have been reviewed to determine the need for a bus she{ter/stop at the project location and inclusion of required trash/recycling enclosure for each project. Bus Shelter: After reviewing the plans it has been determined that this project will be conditioned with a requirement for a bus shelter and turnout. However, if service is not provided in the area at the time of construction, then the condition will be reexamined by the City to determine if the need for public transit facilities still exists. Trash Enclosures: The plan does appear to reflect adequate trash enclosures. However, the plan must provide for a trash/recycling enclosure that is consistent with the Palm Desert Municipal Code and the construction of trash enclosures sha11 be consistent with PDMC, Chapter 8.12. Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services must review the plans to ensure that the vehicle circulation pattern is sufficient to service the complex, that the proposed orientation of the trash enclosures is such that Burrtec's trucks will be able to service dumpsters, and that the proposed number of enclosures meet the capacity needs of the complex/business. The Applicant may contact Jennifer at Burrtec at (760) 340-6445 regarding this issue. FRANKIE - DLE DIRECTOR OF SPECIAL PROGRAMS cc: Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works Russell Grance, Director of Building and Safety f ;. � CITY OF P �AL �I DESERI i 73-5�� FRED WARlNG DRIVE � PALM DESERT, CAL[FORNIA 92260-257H TEL: 760 346—o6�t Fnx: 76o 34i-7o98 , info�palm-deser�.org January 22, 2008 Jason Plotkin Project Manager County of Riverside, Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Ave. Riverside, CA 92507 Jason, Here are the landscape plans with comments from our Landscape Specialist Diane Hollinger. Please revise the plans and provide me with three new plans for comments. If you have any questions, please call me at (760) 346-0611 ext 480. Sincerely, Tony Bagato Principal Planner ��n�mo a nnn[n rw ( �� Palm Desert Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau In cooperation with Ri�•erside Counh�Fire Department 73710 Fred Waring Dr. Suite 102 Palm Desert Ca 92260 760-346-1870 Fax 760-779-195 Palm Desert Fire Marshal's Office 73710 Fred Waring Drive#102 Palm Desert CA 92260 (760) 346-1870 TO: --��r.� ;Z,d��] DATE: �l��,C�g � .�r J REF: (�,�_-��fj_pp� -�p1,�..-�s�sr� �t.}='C�� . �� o,�-rc.�, If circled, conditions apply to project � With respect to the conditions of approval regarding the above referenoed project, the fire department recommends the following fire protection measur�es be provided in accordance with City Municipal Code, NFPA, CFC, and CBC or any reoognized Fire Protection Standards: The Fire Department is required to set a minimum fire flow for the remodel or construction of all buildings per UFC artide 87. /� A fire flow of 1500 gpm for a 1-hour duration at 20 psi residual pressure must be available before any combustible material is placed on the job site. Provide or show there eizsts a water system capable of providing a gpnr flmv of.• 3. 1500 gpm for singte fami{y dwe{{ings 4. 2500 gpm for multifamily dwellings ��_3000 gpm for oommeraal buildings - - � � . The required fire flow shall be available from a wet barrel Super Hydrant(s) 4"z 2 %:"a 2 3/i",locatted not less then 25' nor more t6an: 6. 200' from any portion of a single family dwelling measured via vehicular travelway 7. 165' from any portion of a muftifamily dw�elling measured via vehicular travelway � 150' from any portion of a commercial building measured via vehicular traveiwa Water Plans must be approved by the Fire Marshal �d indude verification that the water system will produce the required fine flaw._ 10. Please be advised the proposed project may not be feasible since the existi�g water mains will not meet the r�equired fire flow. QInstall a complete NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system. This applies to all buildings with a 3000 square foot total cumuNative floor area. The Fire Marshal shall approved the locations of all post indicator valves and fire department connections. All valves and connections shall not be le.ss than 25' from t6e building and within 50' of an approved h drant. Exem ed ane one and tw�o fami dw�ellin . 2 All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems and Water-flow switches shall be monitored and alarmed per CBC Chapter 9. � Install a fire alarm system as required by the UBC Chapter 3. � Install portable fire extinguishers per NFPA 10, but not less than one 2A10BC extinguisher per 3000 square feet and not over 75' walking distance. A"K" type fire eatinguisher is required in all commercial kitchens. 15. Install a Hood/Duct automatic fire extinguishing system pe� NFPA 96 in all public and private cooking operations exvept single-family , . ( �l residential usage. 16. Install a dust collecting system per CFC Chapter 76 if conducting an operation that produces airbome partides. 17 All building shall be accessible by an all weather roadway extending to within 150' of all portions of the ezterior walls of t6e first story. The roadway shall not be less than 24' of unobstructed width and 13' 6" of vertical clearance. Where parallel parking is required on both sides of the street the roadway must be 36' wide and 32' wide with paricing on one side. Dead-end roads in excess of 150' shaU be provided with a mi�imum 45' radius turn-around 55' in industrial developments. 18 Whenever access into private property is oontrolled through use of gates, barriers or other means provisions shaY be made to install a "Knoa Box" key over-ride system to allow for emergency vehicle acxess. Minimum gate width shall be 16"with a minimum vertical dearance of 13'6". 19. A dead end single access over 500' will require a seoondary acxess, sprinklers or other mitigative measures approved by the Fire Marshal. Under no ciccumstance shall a dead end over 1300' be accepted. � A second access is required. This can be accomplished by iwo main access points from a main roadway or an emergency gate from an _ �aning development. 21. This project may require licensing by a state or oounty agency, to facilitate plan review the applicant shall prepare and submit to the Fire Marshal a letter of intent detailing the proposed usage and , �. � �, . o«x,pa�►c�,pe. � All buildings shall have illuminated addr�esses of a size appnoved by the city. � All fire sprinkler systems, fixed fire suppression systems and alarm plans must be submitted separately to the Fire Marshal for appr�oval prior to c�nstruction. � Conditions subject to change with adoption of new codes, ordinances, laws, or when building permits are not obtained within iwelve months. All questions regarding the meaning of these conditions should be referred to the Fire Marshal's Office at (760) 346-1870 in Palm Desert. Location: 73-710 Fred Waring Drive#102. Palm Desert CA 92260 Other: �.�{Mt�n��rni. �adTi't �ir�t-(.;�r}4l;l� t�� 3Z !JU"�' �-_-�� `Ch�� l�c i�_ S "�i�'� � -- Sinc:erely, Jorge Rodriguez Fire Marshal ..--------.._ _ _ __ �.._. r � �---'—.._... � � `. � CITY OF PALM DESERT COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT/ PLANNiNG REQUEST FOR C�MMENTS/CONDITiONS OF {'-'� JAN � i �n(►� DA1'E: Jenuary 9, 2008 , , TO: .,.�PU9UC WORKS(PJ) �BUILDING�SAFETY(SS) $Y:�. _Z __�_�-.� K FIRE AAARSHAL(NS) � LANDSCAPINQ(DHy X COM�AUNITY SERVICES(OS) � DEVELOPMENT SERVICES(FR) X REDEYELOPMENT(MA) K SHERIFF x PARKS 8 RECREATIQN(JS) x CVWD .�.ECONOMIC DEVELOPIiAENT(RAM) �OFFICE OF ENERGY MANAGEMEPR(PC) X WASTE MANAGEMENT �t31S(BR) APPLICANT: Patm Dese�t Redevefopment Agency �b�apP� . � � � QjG<<<, , ASSESSOR PARCEL NUMBER(s): 694-3t0-001 � � ;�' � s 1,1� PROPERTY ADDRESS: 73-700 Gerald Ford Dri �K�"l� 21�13� � Bp�3�' ,� CASE NO(s): GPA,C2, PP/CUP 08-10 ��pe��A�' f2�-�� p� � �.�.�� GENERAL PLAN DESlGNATION: Resort/Fiotel mercfal (C-WH} ..- ZONIN�3: Planned Residentiel 5 dwelling units per acre (P.R.5) PROJECT AECIUEST: Approval of a General Plen M�endment hom ResorVHotet Commercial (C-R/H) to PubIIcJCuasl-Publ� Fe�cllltles (PF�, a Change ot Zone from Plannsd Resldentlal 5 (P.R.S) to Publlc Institutlon (P}, a Procise Plan and Condidonal Use Permft for a new 35,294 squars foot Rlverslds Cour�ty Sheriff Statian wtth a 20,471 square foot evldenc� warohouae, 470 parking spaces, hazairdow wast� atorage aree, 6-toot mlcrowave communtcetton disc� and a 1,323 square foot Wke lmpound bullding and helipad. The attached data was prepared by the applicant and is being forwarded to you for comments ar►d recommended conditions of approvaf. The City is interested in the probable impacts on the environment (including land, air, water, mine�als, flora, fauna, nofse, objects of historical or aesthetic significance) and or recommended conditions of approval based on your expertise and area of concem. ALL COI�AMENTS AND RECOMMENDED CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL MUST BE SUBMITTED T�THIS OFFICE PRIOR TQ 5:00 P.M. ON JANUARY 30,2008. Should you have any questions regarding this project, please contact the project planner for the case described above. Project Planner: Tonv Baaato. Princi�al Planner Phone: f7fi01 346-0611 ext 480 Clty of Pelrn Desert, 73-510 Fred Waring Drlve, Palm Desert, CA 92280 G:1PlennnqlTa�y 8e�tawaa F�Ih�FamattlSaMreportsWPt3nenH SqtipnW�est ta Canmenu ar.a Cond�tims 00C .., � � � � DRAFT Initial Study � Palm Desert Sheriff Station � .� City of Palm Desert, County of Riverside, California r � . . ��. Y,��.� _ _ ��t� ..r .... r '= , Prepared for: .., County of Riverside Department of Facilities Management --� 3133 Mission Inn Avenue � Riverside, CA 92507 ,,,,, Contact: Claudia Steiding, Senior Environmental Planner ` � ... Prepared by: � Michael Brandman Associates M 340 South Farrell Drive, Suite A-210 .. , Palm Springs, CA 92262 ,�, Contact: Nancy M. Ferguson, Regional Manager � „� �� r. ' April �7, 2008 .. w w.. r � 1� �� . :°'•'� 73-5io Fit�.0 V�':�Ki�c� l�hi��f. . 1'.�l�t C)r.SF.iz�, C�[itc�ti�i:� qzzbu--?S;H � Tr.i.: 760 346-06<< i;�x: ;bo 3ai--7o98 � ic(oi«<�.ilni �Ic.rri.��r� NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION AND NOTICE OF AVAILABILITY FOR PUBLIC REVIEW FOR THE PALM DESERT SHERIFF STATION PROJECT IN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA Pursuant to Section 15072 of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) guidelines, this is to notify all interested parties that the City of Palm Desert has prepared Initial Study and draft Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND)for the following project. PROJECT NAME AND DESCRIPTION: The proposed "Palm Desert Sheriff Station Project" is the construction and operation of a new Sheriff Station of approximately 85,496 square feet with a , 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop helipad, parking for 470 vehicles, a fleet fueling station, wash bay for oversize vehicles and bioswales for stormwater pollution management. By 2025 staffing would consist of 350 sworn and 100 non-swom personnel for a total of 450.The helipad would be used intermittently for emergency purposes. The current General Plan land use designation of Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R!H) will be changed to Public/Quasi Public Facilities (PF) and General Plan zoning designation would change from Planned Residential, 5 units per acre (PR 5)to Public Institution (P). PROJECT LOCATION: The proposed project site is located in the City of Palm Desert in eastern Riverside County, California. The site has frontage on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive, east , of Monterey Avenue and west of Portola Avenue. The site includes a 10-acre portion of Assessor's Parcel Number 653-740-001. PUBLIC REVIEW PERIOD: The public review period extends from April 18, 2008 through May 17, 2008. Written comments about the proposed project must be received no later than May 17, 2008 and should be addressed to: Tony Bagato - Principal Planner, City of Palm Desert — Planning Department, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260. PUBLIC HEARING: A hearing for the proposed project will be held during a regularly scheduled Planning Commission Meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2008 at 6:OOp.m. in the Civic Center Council Chamber, 73510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California 92260. AVAILABILITY OF ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTS: A copy of the Initial Study and related documents are available for review at the following locations: City of Palm Desen—Planning Department 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260 Hours:8:00 a.m. -5:00 p.m. Monday fhrough Friday (Closed major holidays) County of Riverside-Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507 Hours: 7:00 a.m. —5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday (Closed major holidays) ,. ,, , DRAFT Initial Study Palm Desert Sheriff Station City of Palm Desert, County of Riverside, California ,�y��I�,� �► =� � + •'��'�. . � `�i �.: - �,� �� l� � Prepared for: . County of Riverside Department of Facilities Management 3133 Mission Inn Avenue Riverside, CA 92507 Contact: Claudia Steiding, Senior Environmental Planner Prepared by: Michael Brandman Associates 340 South Farrell Drive, Suite A-210 Palm Springs, CA 92262 ' Contact: Nancy M. Ferguson, Regional Manager �� . �� April 17, 2008 Table of Contents I. Project Information..................................................................................................................... 3 II. Applicable General Plan Land Use Policies and Zoning............................................................ 5 III. Environmental Factors Potentially Affected ............................................................................. 16 IV. Determination .......................................................................................................................... 16 V. Environmental Issues Assessment.......................................................................................... 18 Aesthetics .......................................................................................................................... 18 Agriculture Resources........................................................................................................21 AirQuality ..........................................................................................................................22 BiologicalResources .........................................................................................................27 CulturalResources ............................................................................................................ 30 Geologyand Soils..............................................................................................................33 Hazards and Hazardous Materials.....................................................................................40 Hydrology and Water Quality.............................................................................................43 LandUse And Planning .....................................................................................................47 MineralResources.............................................................................................................48 Noise..................................................................................................................................49 Populationand Housing.....................................................................................................53 PublicServices .................................................................................................................. 54 Recreation.......................................................................................................................... 56 Transportation/Traffic.........................................................................................................57 UtilityAnd Service Systems...............................................................................................59 Mandatory Findings of Significance...................................................................................63 VI. References ..............................................................................................................................66 VII. Earlier Analyses.......................................................................................................................67 Exhibits Exhibit1: Regional Location Map..........................................................................................................7 Exhibit2: Local Aerial Map....................................................................................................................8 Exhibit3: Local Parcel Map...................................................................................................................9 Exhibit4: Site Photographs .................................................................................................................10 Exhibit 5a: Site Plan with Landscaping Plan........................................................................................11 Exhibit 5b: Landscaping Plan Notes....................................................................................................12 Exhibit5c: Landscaping Details...........................................................................................................13 Exhibit6: Perspective Sketch..............................................................................................................14 Exhibit7: Helipad Plan.........................................................................................................................15 Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 1 of 67 EA#08250003764 Appendices (Included on attached CD) Appendix A—Air Quality Report— MBA Letter Report, Subject: Brief Air Quality Analysis for the Palm Desert Sheriff's Station (January 2008) Appendix B— Biological Resources Report— Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Project 20063764 City of Palm Desert, Riverside County, California (Michael Brandman Associates, July 2007) Appendix C —Cultural Resources Report— Phase I Cultural Resources Assessment and Paleontological Records Review Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Project 20063764 Palm Desert, Riverside County, California (Michael Brandman Associates (MBA}, August 2007) Appendix D — Geotechnical Report— Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, (CHJ Incorporated, June 12, 2007) Appendix E - Phase I Environmental Site Assessment— Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, South of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside County, California 92211, (EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007) Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 2 of 67 EA#08250003764 COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT FORM: INITIAL STUDY Environmental Assessment (E.A.) Number: 08250003764 Project Case Type(s) and Number(s): Project 08250003764, Palm Desert Sheriff Station Lead Agency Name: Ciry of Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency/ Planning Department Address: 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA. 92260 Contact Person: Tony Bagato, Principal Planner Telephone Number: 760-346-0611 ext. 483 Applicant's Name: Ciry of Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency Applicant's Address: 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260 I. PROJECT INFORMATION A. Project Background Due to the continued growth in the Coachella Valley, a new Sheriff Station is needed. The County of Riverside (County) Sheriff's Department believes that the proposed location is optimum to serve the cities of Palm Desert and Indian Wells as well as unincorporated areas of the County. To provide adequate service countywide, the Board of Supervisors has adopted a level of service of 1.2 swom officers per 1,000 residents. Although the City of Palm Desert has adopted a ratio of 1.5 sworn officers per 1,000 population, when considering the service area as a whole, the Sheriff's Department believes that the 1.2:1,000 is the minimum level of service for the area and has planned the new facility accordingly. In addition to serving the unincorporated areas in the Coachella Valley, the County of Riverside also provides contract law enforcement services to these and other incorporated cities. B. Project Location and Assessor Parcel Numbers (APNs) The proposed project site is located in eastern Riverside Counry, the Coachella Valley, in the City of Palm Desert (Exhibit 1 — Regional Location Map}. The site has frontage on the south side of Gerald Ford Drive, halfway befinreen Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue (Exhibit 2 — Local Aerial Map). The site abuts the eastern boundary of the Marriott Shadow Ridge residential development, in the area of its grounds maintenance facility. The project includes a 10-acre portion of Assessor's Parcel Number 653-740-001 (Exhibit 3— Local Parcel Map). C. Existing Conditions The project site is currently vacant and is located in an area that is rapidly developing with residential and commercial uses, particularly at the intersections of Gerald Ford Drive and Cook Street, and Gerald Ford Drive and Monterey Avenue, as well as along the north side of Gerald Ford Drive between the two major streets. Surrounding land uses currently include new residential development to the north, undeveloped land to the south and east, and a golf resort/residential area to the west. Site photographs (Exhibit 4) were taken during a field visit to the site on July 18, 2007. The project site is sparsely vegetated with one plant community - creosote bush scrub, and has the potential to support sensitive plant and wildlife species including: Coachella Valley milk-vetch, flat-seeded spurge, glandular ditaxis, slender woolly-heads, flat-tailed horned lizard, burrowing owl, prairie falcon, Palm Springs pocket mouse, and Coachella Valley round-tailed ground squirrel. The site is relatively flat to gently sloping toward the north and northeast. Elevation within the project site is approximately 300 feet above mean sea level. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 3 of 67 EA#08250003764 The soil on-site consists entirely of Myoma fine sands. There is a dirt road along the western boundary of the project site. The site is disturbed by wind and some off-road vehicle traffic. D. Project Description For a visual representation of the project layout, refer to the Site Plan with Landscaping Plan in Exhibit 5a, Perspective Sketch in Exhibit 6, and Helipad Plan in Exhibit 7. The proposed project includes the following features: • Approximately 85,496 square feet of floor area for all buildings as follows: o Riverside County Sheriff Station building (55,294 square feet); o Warehouse building (20,471 square feet) with central plant (8,493 square feet) operations unit attached; o Bike impound structure (1,323 square feet)with a 20- by 20-foot rooftop helipad; • Front and rear parking lots with 470 total parking stalls covered with pre-manufactured fabric shade structures; • Two access driveways with perimeter site access; • Eight-foot tall block wall on the east, south, and west property boundary coupled with 8-foot tall �olling steel gates at both staff entrances; • Fleet fueling station; • Wash bay for oversize vehicles (i.e., trailers and the mobile emergency command center); and • Bioswales for stormwater pollution management. Buildout (2025) staffing is estimated to be 350 sworn and 100 non-sworn personnel for a total of 450. During a regular Monday through Friday 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM shift, there wili 149 staff members on-site during shift change, and an estimated 132 visitors per day. The site will contain a total of 470 parking spaces, including 85 public parking spaces, 130 patrol vehicle spaces, 260 covered and secure personnel parking spaces, 4 oversized vehicle spaces, 6 Homeland Security parking spaces and others. Site features also include an entry plaza, an outdoor trash bin area, a small hazardous materials storage area, a secure outdoor break area, and a helipad. The main building will contain staff offices, a public lobby and restrooms, meeting and counseling rooms, administrative support offices and facilities, electronic support rooms, employee break rooms/lunchrooms and restrooms, locker rooms, interview rooms, secure rooms, and a secure weapons room. The warehouse facility will contain secure storage, refrigerator/freezer space, a property intake area, air drying areas, and vehicle processing areas. The fueling area will initially contain an approximately 10,000-gallon above ground fuel storage tank and dispensing nozzle system. An additional 10,000-gallon above ground fuel storage tank and dispensing nozzle system is planned for the future. The wash bay would consist of a spray noule, drainage capture system (water clarifier), and two parking spots. The water clarifier is used for the removal of water and particulate solids from lube oil and other hydrocarbon fluids. These solids are removed via replaceable cartridge-type elements. The wash bay will be used for oversized vehicles such as trailers and the emergency command vehicle rather than patrol vehicles. Patrol vehicles will be taken to a commercial car wash off-site. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 4 of 67 EA#08250003764 Development of this project will meet the specifications of the Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System. There are both environmental and financial benefits to earning LEED certification. LEED-certified buildings: • Lower operating costs and increased asset value. • Reduce waste sent to landfills. • Conserve energy and water. • Healthier and safer for occupants. • Reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions. • Qualify for tax rebates, zoning allowances and other incentives in hundreds of cities. • Demonstrate an owner's commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. For the proposed project, for example, to accomplish LEED light pollution reduction, the parking lot light fixtures will be specified with reflector or shielding to direct the light output onto the project site and minimize light spillage into adjacent properties. To address stormwater runoff issues associated with rooftops and parking lots, the County will develop the site using a system of bioswales to control stormwater runoff and pollution from the site as well as filter urban pollutants prior to water percolation into the ground. The swales will perform phytoremediation, which is a set of processes that uses plants to clean pollutants in groundwater, surface water, sediment and air. Bioswales may be lined with a living liner material that consists of lighfinreight fiber sod, reinforced with geotextile material that contains seeds of a variety of grasses and rhysomes that are specialized for the job of water purification and self-regeneration. Optionally, they could be hydroseeded or simply lined with composted material or rip rap. The swales will be filled with a variety of trees, shrubs and grasses. Pollutants coming from the projects rooftop and parking lot runoff such as sediments, heavy metals, fertilizers and pesticides would be captured by the bioswale system and broken down into harmless by-products, rather than polluting water resources. The County is also considering other LEED technologies, including possible use of recycled or other green building materials. E. Type of Project: Site Specific F. Total Project Area: 10 Gross Acres G. Assessor's Parcel No(s): 653-740-001 H. Street References: The project site is located south of I-10 and Gerald Ford Drive, east of Monterey Avenue and west of Portola Avenue, in Palm Desert in the County of Riverside, California. Residential Acres: NA Lots: N/A Units: NA Projected Number of Residents: N/A Commercial Acres: 0 Lots: N/A Sq. Ft. of Bldg. Area: Est. No. of Employees: N/A N/A Industrial Acres: N/A Lots: N/A Est. No. of Employees: N/A Other: Public Facilities Sq. Ft. of Bldg. Area: Est. No. of Employees: District 85,496 square feet 450 Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 5 of 67 EA#08250003764 I. Section, Township � Range Description or reference/attach a Legal Description: Section 32, Township 4 South, Range 6 East, San Bernardino Base Meridian. J. Brief description of the existing environmental setting of the project site and its surroundings: See Item C above. II. APPLICABLE GENERAL PLAN LAND USE POLICIES AND ZONING A. General Plan Designation(s): Current Land Use: Resort/Hotel Commercial (C-R/H) Proposed Land Use:Public/Quasi Public Facilities (PF) Current Zoning: Planned Residential, 5 units per acre (PR 5) Proposed Zoning: Public Institution (P) B. Land Use Planning Area Information 1. Sub-area, if any: The Project site is within the Western Coachella Valley Area Plan (WCVAP). 2. Policy Area, if any: Not applicable C. Area Plan Land Use Allocation Map Information 1. Area Plan, if any: Not applicable. 2. Area Plan Land Use Designation, if any: Not applicable. D. Adopted Specific Plan Information 1. Name and Number of Specific Plan, if any: Not applicable. 2. Specific Plan Planning Area, and Policies, if any: Not applicable. E. Existing Zoning: Planned Residential, 5 units per acre (PR 5)(City of Palm Desert) F. Proposed Zoning, if any: Public Institution (P) G. Adjacent and Surrounding Zoning: Planned Residential, 5 units per acre (PR 5) Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 6 of 67 EA#08250003764 ,�,.�:-- , .; .�. .. • ,.r j � . �'�� ' . ' � G � � Y �� • . . . ��#r .. ��;� M • � � � 4 r� �:�� r' ' ��.�' � . �.�� ,. � � . . 1 �� _-:.,�i,�� r � �` -�-� ., . . ..�..: � . � �. : � l�1. i;', .;i'f r• ;. . ��!►, �.r ' .,k :� �� .,, r, . . � -� ,'� , :� , -. f; .Y. g � � � � ��L ��• / • ��, • ' l / yl -.7 _ (� ,�.. '�� j6' � ! �t �I� � /`77��/ rjl� '��'rl �� .'r.�� i ,. 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'"��r a?r .*- � � � lM �IIA � __ �1 �- � �� Irr •� � � � r� '� l lJ J Q � U � � O " � � �y o O � � ':�`d `�' Z w t � '•X c cn "r .�t'`�V.:� �,� .� U _ '� d 7�,.•y.�;� � �.r• � � r� - L I � O k =,. - Q HiaoN � N w 9t�,�- ' �a �;: � � o 1 r . "�.., �.' t�. � �� N fi�� §.S•t_1 t{;•; �..ti? = p] r : . ' �h[�}'a'KS � �� O w p � . r'f+ , �r � O M L � L;. � Y�� .~ 'r ��.v '- (n �� N iif � _ �, ;; , _. -� ..._. .-:. .� ____ ;i ;; � ;; i: j:. � � ` Ii ;; ;; �� :, I .. , _ --- • �--- _. _, . _ , � I � � BICYCLES STORAGE/HELI PAD PLAN - SCf�1EME NO. 1 � �,. . . .,_: > , ,, ,. ,. ,, ,. . .-, . _. t - ,._- - -- -— ----� • --- -- _ _ — � SEC;TION Source:HDRArchitects, Inc. 2007 ��9�; Exhibit 7 .. ��ZLJLJ Helipad Plan Michacl Brandman Associates 2749.0012•01/2008�PDSShelipad7.cdr CITY OF PALM DESERT-PALM DESERT SHERIFF STATION III. ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED The environmental factors checked below ( x ) would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant ImpacY' or "Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages. ❑Aesthetics ❑Hazards and Hazardous ❑Public Services ❑Agricultural Materials ❑Recreation Resources ❑Hydrology and Water Quality ❑Transportation and Traffic �Air Quality ❑Land Use and Planning ❑Utilities and Service Systems �Biological ❑Mineral Resources ❑Other Resources �Noise �Mandatory Findings of Significance �Cultural Resources ❑Population and Housing �Geology/Soils IV. DETERMINATION On the basis of this initial evaluation: A PREVIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT/NEGATIVE DECLARATION WAS NOT PREPARED ❑ 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, described in this document, have been made 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. A PREVIOUS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT/NEGATIVE DECLARATION WAS PREPARED ❑ I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment NOTHING FURTHER IS REQUIRED because all potentially significant effects (a) have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or Negative Declaration pursuant to applicable legal 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. ❑ I find that although all potentially significant effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or Negative Declaration pursuant to applicable legal standards, some changes or additions are necessary but none of the conditions described in California Code of Regulations, Section 15162 exist. An ADDENDUM to a previously-certified EIR or Negative Declaration has been prepared and will be considered by the approving body or bodies. ❑ I find that at least one of the conditions described in California Code of Regulations, Section , 15162 exist, but I further find that only minor additions or changes are necessary to make the previous EIR adequately apply to the project in the changed situation; therefore a SUPPLEMENT TO THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required that need only contain the information necessary to make the previous EIR adequate for the project as revised. ❑ I find that at least one of the following conditions described in California Code of Regulations, Section 15162, exist and a SUBSEQUENT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required: (1) Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 16 of 67 EA#08250003764 Substantial changes are proposed in the project which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or negative declaration due to the involvement of new significant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified significant effects; (2) Substantial changes have occurred with respect to the circumstances under which the project is unde►taken which will require major revisions of the previous EIR or negative declaration due to the involvement of new signi�cant environmental effects or a substantial increase in the severity of previously identified signiticant effects; or (3) New information of substantial importance, which was not known and could not have been known with the exercise of reasonable diligence at the time the previous EIR was certified as complete or the negative declaration was adopted, shows any the following: (A) The project will have one or more significant effects not discussed in the previous EIR or negatiVe declaration; (B) Significant effects previously examined wilf be substantially more severe than shown in the previous EIR or negative declaration; (C) Mitigation measures or alternatives previously found not to be feasible would in fact be feasible, and would substantially reduce one or more significant ' effects of the project, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measures or alternatives; or, (D) Mitigation measures or alternatives which are considerably different from those analyzed in the previous EIR or negative declaration would substantially reduce one or more " significant effects of the project on the environment, but the project proponents decline to adopt the mitigation measures or alternatives. �—� . B OB Tony Bagat Date Principal Planner City of Palm Desert Community Development\Planning . Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 17 of 67 EA#08250003764 V. ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES ASSESSMENT In accordance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) (Public Resources Code Section 21000-21178.1), this Initial Study has been prepared to analyze the proposed project to determine any potential significant impacts upon the environment that would result from construction and implementation of the project. In accordance with California Code of Regulations, Section 15063, this Initial Study is a preliminary analysis prepared by the Lead Agency, the City of Palm Desert, in consultation with other jurisdictional agencies including the County of Riverside, to determine whether a Negative Declaration, Mitigated Negative Declaration, or an Environmental Impact Report is required for the proposed project. The purpose of this Initial Study is to inform the decision-makers, affected agencies, and the public of potential environmental impacts associated with the implementation of the proposed project. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact AESTHETICS Would the project: 1. Scenic Resources a) Have a substantial effect upon a scenic � � � � highway corridor within which it is located? b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings and unique or landmark features; � � � � obstruct any prominent scenic vista or view open to the public; or result in the creation of an aesthetically offensive site open to public view? Source: County of Riverside, Western Coachella Valley Area Plan (WCVAP), 2003, Figure 8, "Scenic Highways"; City of Palm Desert General Plan 2004; http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org (CUP download), site photos and architectural exhibits. FindinQs of Fact: a) The City of Palm Desert has identified scenic highway corridors as part of its open space conservation and outdoor recreation policies. The nearest County Eligible scenic highway is the I-10 freeway which is approximately '/z mile north of the project site. The project is not visible from the I-10 either because of intervening development or because of the berm that elevates the Union Pacific railroad tracks in the viciniry. The nearest state designated Scenic Highway is the Palms to Pines Highway (Highway 74) south of its intersection with Highway 111, located approximately 4'/2 linear miles south of the project site. The site is visible from the higher elevations as Highway 74 climbs from the low desert into the mountains; however, at that height and distance, all development blends together and the site is inconspicuous. No impact to scenic highways will occur with the proposed project. b) The Coachella Valley is a recreational resort area attracting substantial numbers of tourists " and travelers. Area residents in the past have expressed concerns regarding obstructions of scenic . vistas or views open to the public, including views of surrounding mountains. The City's Development Review process includes a number of elements to take into consideration when reviewing a • development along major streets and scenic corridors. These include such elements as architecture, landscaping, public art, setbacks screening of inechanical equipment, installation of trash enclosures, Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 18 of 67 EA#08250003764 and placement of utilities underground. No landmark or unique features are associated with this project. As part of the project design, the landscaping, architecture and building setbacks will be compatible , with the scenic setting and with adjacent land uses. Any roof mounted equipment will be shielded from ground view within a quarter of a mile. Outdoor rubbish disposal areas will be enclosed by an eight- foot tall masonry wall and an eight-foot tall solid gate which screens the bins from external view. The fueling tank will be screened from off property views by the perimeter wall fence. Utilities, except electrical lines rated 33kV or greater, will be installed underground. Construction related rubbish and debris will be stored and removed as required by City Municipal Code. Part of the landscaping design for the project includes bioswales that will be both aesthetically pleasing and functional. The swales will be planted with a special array of trees, shrubs and grasses. They will function to clean stormwater that flows into them from the parking lot, and will provide cool shade and interesting texture to the views. This project includes a helipad that will be located on top of the bike impound structure (see Exhibit 7 — Helipad Plan). It will be incorporated into the overall structure and will not be visible from the street or adjacent housing. Therefore, no significant impacts to scenic resources will occur with the proposed project. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 2. Mt. Palomar Observatory a) Interfere with the night time use of the Mt. � � � � . Palomar Observatory, as protected through Riverside Counry Ordinance No. 655? Source: Riverside County, Western Coachella Valley Area Plan (WCVAP), 2003, GIS database, and regional maps. Findin�s of Fact: � a) According to the WCVAP, the Mount Palomar Observatory, located 43 miles southwest in San Diego County requires darkness so that the night sky can be viewed clearly. The presence of the observatory necessitates unique nighttime lighting standards in several areas of Riverside County. �' The project area is inside this light management zone, as shown on WCVAP Figure 6, Mount Palomar . Nighttime Lighting Policy. The following policies are intended to limit light leakage and spillage that may obstruct or hinder the view. WCVAP Policy: WCVAP 15.1 Where outdoor lighting is proposed, require the inclusion of outdoor lighting features that would minimize the effects on the nighttime sky and wildlife habitat areas. WCVAP 15.2 Adhere to the lighting requirements of the County Ordinance Regulating Light Pollution for standards that are intended to limit light leakage and spillage that may interfere with the operations of the Palomar Observatory. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 19 of 67 EA#08250003764 As part of the project design, low pressure sodium vapor lighting or overhead high pressure sodium vapor lighting with shields or cutoff luminaries shall be utilized. Therefore, no significant impacts to the Mt. Palomar Observatory will occur with the proposed project. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 3. Other Lighting Issues a) Create a new source of substantial light or � � � � glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? b) Expose residential property to unacceptable � � � � light levels? Source: Site visit, Palm Desert Zoning Code (2004), Palm Desert Sheriff Station project site plans. Findinqs of Fact: a and b) The nature and intensity/densiry of the project is such that light and glare may increase from existing levels. The Sheriff Station would be operating 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, which would require nighttime (ighting. Security lighting would be necessary to protect the outdoor areas, both during construction and operation. The proximity of residential land uses makes light pollution a potential adverse impact. However, the City Municipal Code deals with the issue of lighting extensively, and compliance with the ordinances would be sufficient to prevent significant adverse effects. In addition to these standard conditions of approval, the Conditional Use Permit required for this project may address any site specific lighting issues. Lighting design for the project was based on the LEED Green Building Rating System requirements and the Palm Desert City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance. To accomplished LEED light pollution reduction, parking lot light fixtures are specified with reflector or shielding to direct the light output into the property of the project and minimize light spillage into adjacent property. To attain Palm Desert City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance, under Class V lighting, the parking lot lighting poles are 20 feet high, lighting fixtures comes with high pressure sodium (HPS) with an average not to exceed 3 foot-candles at the surface. Outside lighting shall be hooded and directed so as not to shine directly upon adjoining property. Landscaping and site features shall be designed to reduce glare from windows and vehicles. An 8-foot tall perimeter wall will block glare from vehicles and windows. Therefore, no significant impacts to other lighting issues will occur with the proposed project. , Mitiaation: None required. Monitorin�: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 20 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact AGRICULTURE RESOURCES Would the project: 4. Agriculture 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 agricultural use, or a Williamson Act (agricultural preserve) contract � � � � (Riv. Co. Agricultural Land Conservation Contract Maps)? c) Cause development of non-agricultural uses within 300 feet of agriculturally zoned property ❑ ❑ ❑ � (Ordinance No. 625 "Right-to-Farm")? d) Involve other changes in the existing environment which, due to their location or nature, � � � � could result in conversion of Farmland, to non- agricultural use? Source: Riverside County General Plan Figure OS-2 "Agricultural Resources", GIS database. Findinqs of Fact: a) The project site is located in the City of Palm Desert in an area rapidly developing with a mix of residential and commercial land uses, and is not designated as Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance. b) The project site is not under a Williamson Act contract and is not shown on a Riverside Counry Agricultural Land Contract Map. c) The site is not located in the vicinity of farmland, such that project would cause development within 300 feet of agriculturally zoned property. d) Development of the project site would not result in the conversion of Farmland to a non- agricultural use because the site is not designated as an agricultural use and is not located in the vicinity of any agricultural properties. Therefore, no significant impacts to agricultural resources will occur with the proposed project. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 21 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Signiflcant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No AIR QUALITY Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 5. Air Quality 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 non-attainment under an applicable federal or state ambient air quality � � � � standard (including releasing emissions which exceed quantitative thresholds for ozone precursors)? d) Expose sensitive receptors which are located within 1 mile of the project site to project ❑ � ❑ ❑ substantial point source emissions? e) Involve the construction of a sensitive receptor located within one mile of an existing substantial � � � � point source emitter? fl Create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people? ❑ ❑ � ❑ Source: South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) CEQA Air Quality Handbook Table 6-2, State Implementation Plan for PM�o in the Coache//a Valley, November 1990, MBA Letter Report, Subject: Brief Air Quality Analysis for the Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, February 5, 2008 (Appendix A). Findinqs of Fact: a) Affects to the Air Quality Management Plan will be less than significant with mitigation. This assessment uses four criteria for determining project consistency with the current Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP). According to the SCAQMD, there are two key indicators of AQMP consistency: 1) whether the project will result in an increase in the frequency or severity of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new violations, or delay timely attainment of air quality standards or the interim emission reductions specified in the AQMP; 2) whether the project will � exceed the assumptions in the AQMP based on the year of project build out and phase (SCAQMD 1993, Page 12-3); 3) whether the project complies with the control measures in the AQMP; and 4) whether the project complies with the SCAQMD regional thresholds. As illustrated in the . discussion below, the project is consistent with the applicable AQMP with mitigation. a1) ProjecYs Contribution to Air Quality Violations: As shown under Violations (b), the project . would not violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation after mitigation measures have been implemented. Therefore, the project meets the first criterion with mitigation. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 22 of 67 EA#08250003764 a2) Control Measures: The second criterion is compliance with the control measures in the AQMP. The AQMP contains a number of land use and transportation control measures including the following: the SCAQMD's Stationary and Mobile Source Control Measures; State Control Measures proposed by the California Air Resources Board (CARB); and Transportation Control Measures provided by Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) (AQMP 2003, Page 4-3). CARB's strategy for reducing mobile source emissions include the following approaches: new engine standards; reduce emissions from in-use fleet, require clean fuels, support alternative fuels and reduce petroleum dependency, work with U.S. EPA to reduce emissions from national and state sources, and pursue long-term advanced technology measures (AQMP 2003, Page 4-25). The measures implemented by CARB and SCAG effect the project indirectly by regulating the vehicles used and regulating public transportation. The project will indirectly comply with the control measures set by CARB and SCAG. The project will comply with all of the DistricYs applicable rules and regulations. The project will directly comply with SCAQMD rules through compliance with the following rules: • SCAQMD Rule 403 governs emissions of fugitive dust during construction and operation activities. Compliance with this rule is achieved through application of standard best management practices, such as application of water or chemical stabilizers to disturbed soils, covering haul vehicles, restricting vehicle speeds on unpaved roads to 15 miles per hour (mph), sweeping loose dirt from paved site access roadways, cessation of construction activity when winds exceed 25 mph, and establishing a permanent ground cover on finished sites. Rule 403 also requires submission of a Fugitive Dust Plan to the SCAQMD for projects that disturb over 100 acres of soil or move 10,000 cubic yards per day of material. However, this last requirement does not apply to the proposed project. • SCAQMD Rule 1108 governs the sale, use and manufacturing of asphalt and limits the Volatile Organic Compound (VOC) content in asphalt used in the South Coast Air Basin. Although this rule does not directly apply to the project, it does regulate the VOC content of asphalt used during construction. • SCAQMD Rule 1113 governs the sale, use, and manufacturing of architectural coating and limits the VOC content in paints and paint solvents. Although this rule does not directly apply to the project, it does regulate the VOC content of paints available during construction. a3) Compliance with SCAQMD Regional Thresholds: As shown in the Air Quality Analysis (Appendix A), construction and operational emissions are below the regional significance thresholds. Therefore, the project is compliant with the SCAQMD regional thresholds. In summary, mitigation is required to ensure that the project does not exceed localized significance thresholds during construction. The following mitigation is required: Mitiqation: AQ-1: Prior to the issuance of a grading permit, the project shall comply with SCAQMD Rule 403. The project shall also submit written documentation that during grading, the following shall be adhered to: a maximum of 5 acres per day shall be actively graded; disturbed areas , shall be watered a minimum of two times per day; apply soil stabilizers to inactive areas; and the speed on unpaved roads shall not exceed 10 mph. AQ-2: During project construction, the general contractor shall require all contractors not to idle construction equipment on-site for more than five minutes. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 23 of 67 EA#08250003764 Monitorinq: Monitoring to be provided by the Riverside County Department of Facilities Management and permitting agencies (i.e., SCAQMD). b) Air quality violations will be less than significant with mitigation. The proposed project has the potential to contribute to the violation of an existing air quality standard or an existing or projected air quality violation. The analysis of short-term and long-term emissions determined that the project related impacts will not exceed the SCAQMD regional emission thresholds. However, without mitigation, emissions of particulate matter (PM,o and PM2.5) during grading (construction) exceed the localized significance thresholds. Therefore, without mitigation measure AQ-1, the project has the potential to exceed an ambient air qualiry standard for PM,o and PM2.5 during grading. With mitigation, emissions of PM�o, PM2.5, NOx, and CO are below the localized significance thresholds during construction. Therefore, with mitigation, the project would not violate any air quality standard or contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation. c) Cumulative Impacts will be less than significant with mitigation. The following tiered approach is used to assess cumulative air quality impacts: 1. Consistency with the regional thresholds; 2. Project consistency with existing air quality plans; 3. Assessment of the cumulative health effects of the pollutants; and 4. Global climate change assessment. c1) Regional Thresholds: The regional significance analysis of operational and construction emissions demonstrated that emissions are under the SCAQMD regional significance thresholds. Therefore, the project would not contribute to a cumulative impact according to this tier. c2) Consistency with Air Quality Plans: As discussed above (a), the project is consistent with the air quality management plan with mitigation. Therefore, the project would not contribute to a cumulative impact according to this tier. c3) Cumulative Effects: The project area is in state nonattainment for ozone and PM,o. The Coachella Valley is also in serious federal nonattainment for PM�o and 8-hour ozone. The project- specific evaluation of emissions presented in the air quality analysis supports a conclusion that the air quality impacts for the proposed project are less than significant. This means that project emissions of ozone precursors, VOC and NOx, would not result in a significant cumulative effect to ozone concentrations. Additionally, with mitigation, emissions of PM�o and PM2,5 during construction would not exceed the localized significance thresholds, which mean that emissions are not great enough to contribute significantly to a cumulative impact. Therefore, project emissions would not result in cumulative effects and would therefore not result in cumulative health effects. c4) Global climate change assessment: Global climate change is a change in the average weather of the earth that can be measured by wind patterns, storms, precipitation, and temperature (AEP 2007). Global climate change is believed to be caused by greenhouse gases. The project contributes to this potential impact through its cumulative contribution of its emissions of greenhouse gases. The project will emit greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide from the exhaust of equipment used during construction and the automobiles accessing the project during operation. Additionally, the project will emit some greenhouse gases from the use of natural gas on- a site and through the indirect emissions of electricity generation. Emissions of carbon dioxide were estimated from the mobile vehicles and the area sources for the project and are contained in the air quality letter report (MBA 2008). Emissions of inethane and nitrous oxide are negligible from the project. Lighting design was based on the LEED Green Building Rating System requirements and the Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 24 of 67 EA#08250003764 Palm Desert City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance. To accomplished LEED light pollution reduction, parking lot light fixtures are specified with reflector or shielding to direct the light output into the property of the project and minimize light spillage into adjacent property. There are currently no published thresholds of significance for determining the project's contribution to global climate change. However, for this analysis, the threshold for measuring the projecYs significance is to compare regional emissions without the project to regional emissions with the project. The project consists of the construction of a sheriff station to serve the needs of a growing community. The sheriff station will serve as a base for officers. The community surrounding the proposed project site needs sheriff support. If the project were not built at the project site, there would still be a requirement for officers to patrol the project area, the patrol officers would simply be required to drive farther to reach the area. Considering this, the project would actually reduce the number of vehicle miles traveled for the employees, the patrol officers, and potentially, the visitors to the sheriff station. Therefore, it is likely that the project will actually reduce regional emissions of greenhouse gases. To encourage alternative forms of transportation, mitigation requiring bicycle parking on the project site is suggested. Other sources of greenhouse gases from the project are from indirect electricity generation to supply the projecYs electricity needs, indirect electricity generation from pumping the water on-site, and emissions from the waste from the project. The construction of the on-site buildings will be required to comply with current Title 24 standards, which improve energy efficiency. Another way to decrease the indirect electricity emissions for the project is to install solar panels. The project is located in the Coachella Valley, which has a high input of solar radiation available for electricity generation. Therefore, it is feasible for the County to install solar panels and mitigation is suggested in that regard. Electricity is also used to pump water to the project site and mitigation is suggested to reduce water consumption. The project is located in the desert and electricity demand for cooling is high. This demand can be decreased by the use of light building materials and roofing; mitigation is suggested in that regard. Additionally, methane, a greenhouse gas, is emitted from landfills. Therefore, mitigation encouraging the use of recycling is suggested to reduce the quantity of waste transferred to the landfill. The projecYs location will reduce vehicle miles traveled regionally, reducing greenhouse gas emissions in the region. Additionally, with mitigation, the project will increase its energy efficiency. Therefore, the project will not result in a significant impact in regard to global climate change. The project will not be subject to negative impacts from climate change as discussed in Assembly Bill 32, which include the exacerbation of air quality problems, a reduction in the quality and supply of water to the state from the Sierra snowpack, a rise in sea levels resulting in the displacement of thousands of coastal businesses and residences, damage to marine ecosystems and the natural environment, and an increase in the incidences of infectious diseases, asthma, and other human health-related problems. The project is not near the shoreline and will not be subject to a rise in sea levels. The project obtains its water supply from groundwater and therefore not be subject to a decrease in water from the Sierra snowpack. Mitipation: AQ-3 To reduce impacts to global climate change, the County shall do the following: • To encourage alternative forms of transportation, secure bicycle parking shall be installed on the project site, a minimum of one space per 20 vehicle parking spaces. Additionally, transit information shall be placed in the lobby. • To reduce cooling needs, the County shall use light-colored building materials and reflective roofing materials. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 25 of 67 EA#08250003764 • To reduce electricity requirements for the pumping of groundwater, grass is prohibited from the project site. Only drought-resistant plants shall be planted on the project site. Additionally, sprinklers shall be prohibited and drip irrigation from plastic tubing shall be used to water the plants. • To reduce waste, paper and beverage container recycling shall be implemented at the project. Monitorinq: Monitoring to be provided by the Riverside County Department of Facilities Management and permitting agencies (i.e., SCAQMD). The project would not 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). d) Impacts to Localized Significance Threshold (LST) will be less than significant with mitigation. Although the surrounding area contains sensitive receptors (residential uses), the project is not considered a substantial point source emitter. Assessment of the pollutant impact to sensitive receptors is done through compliance with the localized significance thresholds (LSTs) for the area. The LSTs represent the maximum emissions from a project that will not cause or contribute to an exceedance of the most stringent applicable state or national ambient air qualiry standard. The ambient air quality standards are set to protect the health of sensitive individuals. Therefore, if the concentrations of the pollutants are below the standards, then no significant health effects would be observed. Project related construction emissions are under the LSTs after the incorporation of mitigation. Therefore, no health effects would be observed during construction with mitigation. In addition, the construction of the project is subject to the SCAQMD's dust control regulations, which, when implemented, reduce the potential for dust emissions as well as prohibit significant emission of dust from construction activities. The construction equipment would emit diesel particulate matter, which is a carcinogen. However, the diesel particulate matter emissions are short term in nature. Determination of risk from diesel particulate matter is considered over a 70-year exposure time. Additionally, the nearest sensitive receptors (residences) would be located within approximately 80 feet from the project site. Therefore, considering the dispersion of the emissions and the short time frame, exposure to diesel particulate matter is anticipated to be less than significant. Gasoline fueling stations emit benzene, a known carcinogen. The SCAQMD has Emission Inventory and Risk Assessment Guidelines (2007), which contains cancer risk screening tables for below ground storage tanks. It was estimated that the annual throughput of gasoline would be 200,000 gallons. The screening tables display the cancer risk for 1,000,000 gallons of gasoline per year, 3.61 in one million. The actual throughput is about 20 percent of one million; therefore, it is anticipated that the cancer risk would be about 20 percent of what was estimated, or 0.7 in one million. The SCAQMD threshold for cancer risks from a facility is 10 in one million. Therefore, it is anticipated that the cancer risks associated with the fueling station are less than significant. To ensure that emissions during operation remain low at the project site, the following mitigation will reduce emissions from cars idling at the station. Mitiqation: AQ-4: During operation, there shall be "no vehicle idling" signs posted at the Sheriff Station and officers shall be informed of the no idling restriction. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 26 of 67 EA#08250003764 e) The project does not include the construction of residential, educational, or other similar sensitive receptors. fl The projects impacts regarding odors will be less than significant. The CEQA guidelines _ indicate that a significant impact would occur if the proposed project would create objectionable odors affecting a substantial number of people. Diesel emissions from construction equipment operating on the project site may create temporary objectionable odors. However, emissions will disperse rapidly from the project site and therefore should not be at a level to induce a negative response. Therefore, odor impacts to the project are anticipated to be less than significant. Monitorinq: Monitoring to be provided by the Riverside County Department of Facilities Management and permitting agencies (i.e., SCAQMD). Less than Potentially Signiftcant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES Would the project 6. Wildlife 8�Vegetation a) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted � � � � Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Conservation Communiry Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state conservation plan? b) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any endangered, or threatened species, as listed in � � � � Title 14 of the California Code of Regulations (Sections 670.2 or 670.5) or in Title 50, Code of Federal Regulations (Sections 17.11 or 17.12)? c) 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 (CDFG) or U. S. Wildlife Service (USFWS)? d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident ❑ ❑ ❑ � migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? e) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, ❑ ❑ ❑ � policies, and regulations or by the CDFG or USFWS? Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 27 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact f) 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, vemal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? g) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree ❑ ❑ ❑ � preservation policy or ordinance? Source: Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Project FM08250003764, Crty of Palm Desert, Riversrde County, Califorrrra, Mrchae/ Brandman Associates, September 2007, (Appendix B), Riverside County General Plan, 2003; City of Palm Desert General Plan, 2004. Findinqs of Fact: a) The project site is not located within any Conservation Area of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP). Therefore, this project has no Conservation Objectives that are required for compliance with the CVMSHCP. The Thousand Palms Conservation Area is the closest Conservation Area to the project site. This Conservation Area is located approximately two miles north of the site, north of Interstate 10. Additionally, there are no Essential Ecological Processes that occur in the vicinity of the project site. b-c) The project site contains one uniform plant community, creosote bush scrub (see Exhibit 5 in Appendix B). Creosote bush (Larrea tridentata) is the dominant shrub and is widely scattered throughout the site. Omamental plantings occur along the western boundary, adjacent to Shadow Ridge Drive. These plantings include native catclaw (Acacia greggii) and non-native pine trees (Pinus sp.). A dirt road occurs along the western boundary of the project site. The creosote bush scrub plant community can be described as an open plant community with widely spaced shrubs, usually with bare ground in between. Growth occurs during spring (rarely in summer or fall) if rainfall is sufficient. Growth is prevented by cold in the winter and limited by drought during other seasons. Many species of ephemeral herbs may flower in late March and April if the winter rains are sufficient. Other, less numerous species of annuals may appear following summer thundershowers. Additional native characteristic species that occur on the site include brittlebush (Encelia farinosa), desert lavender (Hyptis emory��, California croton (Croton californica), and plicate tiquila (Tiquila plicata). Seven special status plant species have been documented as occurring within the vicinity of the project site. Four sensitive species, Coachella Valley milk-vetch (Astragalus lentiginosus var. coachellae), flat-seeded spurge (Chamaesyce platysperma), glandular ditaxis (Ditaxis claryana), and slender woolly-heads (Nemacaulis denudata var. gracilis) have a moderate or high potential to occur on the project site. A description of each of these sensitive plant species is presented in Table 1 of the Habitat Assessment (Appendix B). No special status plant species were observed during the field survey. Known occurrences of sensitive plant species in the vicinity are shown in Exhibit 6 of the Habitat Assessment. One sensitive plant community, the Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodland, has been recorded to occur in the vicinity of the project site but does not occur on the project site. Desert fan palms do not occur on- site and the essential environmental components associated with Desert Fan Palm Oasis Woodlands, Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 28 of 67 EA#08250003764 such as steep sided canyons with permanent water, large springs, and/or alkaline soils, do not occur within the project site. Twenry-three sensitive wildlife species were reported as occurring within the vicinity of the project site. A summary of each of these sensitive wildlife species is presented in Table 2 of the MBA biological report (Appendix B). Five sensitive wildlife species, flat-tailed horned lizard (Phrynosoma mcallii), burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia), prairie falcon (Falco mexicanus), Palm Springs pocket mouse (Perognathus longimembris bangsi), and Coachella Valley round-tailed ground squirrel (Spermophilus tereticaudus chlorus) have a moderate or high potential to occur on-site. The project site contains suitable nesting habitat for avian species. The ornamental trees planted along Shadow Ridge Drive provide nesting habitat for many avian species such as house finch (Carpodacus mexicanus) and mourning dove (Zenaida macroura). No burrows were observed at the time of the survey that would provide suitable habitat for ground-nesting species such as burrowing owl. However, the site does provide suitable foraging habitat for burrowing owl. The following mitigation shall be incorporated to reduce impacts to nesting birds potentially occurring on the project site. Mitiqation: BIO-1: Pursuant to the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and CDFG Code, removal of any trees, shrubs, or any other potential nesting habitat shall be conducted outside the avian nesting season. The nesting season generally extends from early February through August, but can vary slightly from year to year based upon seasonal weather conditions. The site provides suitable nesting habitat for avian species and foraging habitat for burrowing owl. If construction of the proposed project is to occur during the nesting season, a pre- construction clearance survey for these species is required 30 days prior to any construction activities. Therefore, with implementation of mitigation measure BIO-1, impacts associated with development of the proposed project would be less than significant. Monitorinp: County of Riverside Department of Facilities Management construction schedule will indicate the need for a pre-construction survey, if required. d) The project site is not within a wildlife movement corridor. Under the CVMSHCP, the project site has not been designated as a Biological Corridor and Linkage. No impact will occur. e-f) The project site does not contain any riparian habitat or drainage features or bodies of water that would be considered jurisdictional by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) or the CDFG. No hydrophilic plant species were observed; therefore, it was not necessary to examine the other two wetland criteria (hydrology and soils). No jurisdictional wetlands will be impacted by the development of the project site. g) The project site is not located within any Conservation Area of the CVMSHCP. Therefore, this project has no Conservation Objectives that are required for compliance with the CVMSHCP. Additionally, there are no Essential Ecological Processes that occur in the vicinity of the project site. The City of Palm Desert does not have a local ordinance for the protection of biological resources. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 29 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact CULTURALRESOURCES Would the Project: 7. Historic Resources � � � � a) Alter or destroy an historic site? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource as defined in ❑ ❑ ❑ � California Code of Regulations, Section 15064.5? Source: National Register of Historic Places Vol. 1 & ll and California lnventory of Historic Resources 1976; Phase I Cultural Resources Assessment Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Projecf FM08250003764 Palm Desert, Riverside Counfy, California, Michael Brandman Associates, September 2007 (Appendix C). FindinQs of Fact: a-b) The project site is not identified as a historic site and no historic resources are know from the project site. Therefore, no impacts to historic resource would occur. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentlally Signiflcant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 8. Archaeological Resources � � � � a) Alter or destroy an archaeological site? b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource � � � � pursuant to California Code of Regulations, Section 15064.5? c) Disturb any human remains, including those � � � � interred outside of formal cemeteries? d) Restrict existing religious or sacred uses within the potential impact area? ❑ ❑ ❑ � Source: Phase I Cultural Resources Assessment, Palm Desert Sheriff Sfation, Project FM08250003764 Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, Michael Brandman Associates, September 2007 (Appendix C). FindinQs of Fact: a-d) On July 18, 2007, a MBA Staff Archaeologist conducted a records search at the Eastern Information Center, which is located at the Universiry of California, Riverside. The records search included current inventories of the following: • National Register of Historic Places (NRHP); • California Register of Historical Resources (CR); • California Historical Landmarks (CHL); • Califomia Points of Historical Interest (CPHI); Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 30 of 67 EA#08250003764 • California State Historic Resources Inventory (HRI); and • Archival maps for the City of Palm Desert and Counry of Riverside. The results of the cultural resource record search indicate that there are no previously recorded resources within the project area boundaries, and that there is one prehistoric isolated find and one historic age resource within a 1-mile search radius. In addition, the record search revealed that the entirery of the project area has not been previously surveyed, although three sizable studies have been conducted to the north of the project area. These three studies examined a total of 591 acres, and all returned negative findings. The project area was surveyed on July 18, 2007. The project area was examined using a block- transect technique, with 10 to 15 meter spacing. The project area is rectangular in shape, and is generally flat. The entirery of the project area is presently undeveloped. However the soils have been disturbed by vehicular activiry. The surface visibiliry was excellent, ranging from 75 to 100 percent. The project area is easily accessible from Gerald Ford Drive to the north or Shadow Ridge Road to the west. The rock rype observed in the project area consisted of small gravels not more than 3 centimeters in diameter, found within light brown sand. Numerous pebble-sized rock inclusions were noted throughout. Modern refuse was noted in the project area, especially near Gerald Ford Drive and along Shadow Ridge Road, including plastic fragments and bottle glass fragments. During the pedestrian survey, no prehistoric or historic resources were observed. Due to the results of the pedestrian survey, the lack of archaeological resources within the 1-mile records search radius despite sizable cultural resource surveys and the moderately disturbed nature of the soils in the project area, it is unlikely that the project area will exhibit intact, subsurface deposits. Therefore, a monitoring program is not recommended. There is always the small possibility that ground-disturbing activities during construction may uncover previously unknown buried human remains. Should this occur, federal laws and standards apply including Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA) and its regulations found in the Code of Federal Regulations at 43 CFR 10. In the event of an accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, California State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 dictates that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has made the necessary findings as to origin and disposition pursuant to CEQA regulations and Public Resources Code (PRC) Section 5097.98. It is always possible that ground-disturbing activities during construction may uncover previously unknown, buried cultural resources. See mitigation measures for details on required action. Mitiqation: CR-1: No monitoring program has been recommended for cultural resources. However, to ensure that unknown resources are not destroyed during grading or construction, the following notes shall appear on all pian documents: • In the event that buried cultural resources are discovered during construction, operations must stop in the immediate vicinity of the find and a qualified archaeologist must be consulted to determine whether the resource requires further study. • In the event of an accidental discovery or recognition of any human remains, California State Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 dictates that no further disturbance shall occur until the County Coroner has made the necessary findings as to origin and disposition pursuant to CEQA regulations and PRC Section 5097.98. Palm Desert Sheriff Sta6on Page 31 of 67 EA#08250003764 • No further grading shall occur in the area of the discovery until the Lead Agency approves the measures to protect these resources. With implementation of CR-1, potential impacts to archaeological resources would be less than significant. Monitorinq: Department of Facilities Management review during plan check and construction reports. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 9. Paleontological Resources a) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique � � � � paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? Source: Paleontological Resources Assessment Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Project FM08250003764 Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, Michael Brandman Associates, September 2007 (Appendix C); Riverside County General Plan, 2003; Paleontological Sensitiviry Resources Map. Findinqs of Fact: a) A paleontological assessment was undertaken by Mr. Eric Scott of the San Bernardino County Museum in July 2007. The assessment concluded that the project area is situated entirely upon surface exposures of recent dune sand. This lithologic unit has low potential to contain significant paleontological resources and is assigned low paleontological sensitivity. These recent deposits overlie older Pleistocene age sediments at an undetermined depth. Generally, these older Pleistocene sediments, often found at depths of 10 feet or more from the modern ground surface, have a high potential to contain significant nonrenewable paleontological resources. Excavations into these Pleistocene sediments throughout the region have previously yielded significant fossils of plants and extinct Pleistocene vertebrates. However, the surfacial older Pleistocene exposures in the vicinity consist of Ocotillo Conglomerate. This Ocotillo Conglomerate, while considered highly fossiliferous in some locales, is considered to have low potential to contain significant Paleontological resources within the present project area. This is due to the lack of significant fossils known from this Ocotillo Conglomerate in the nearby Indio and Mecca Hills areas. Thus, if the Pleistocene sediments presumed to be present in the project area conform to these assessments, it is unlikely that they would be fossiliferous. With this assumption in mind, the sensitiviry of the Pleistocene deposits within the project area has been assigned low sensitivity. The project area has been assigned a low sensitivity rating, therefore, no impacts to paleontological resources are anticipated to occur with the proposed project. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 32 of 67 EA#08250003764 GEOLOGY AND SOILS Definitions for Land Use Suitability Ratings Where indicated below, the appropriate Land Use Suitability Rating(s) has been checked. NA- Not Applicable S - Generally Suitable PS - Provisionally Suitable U - Generally Unsuitable R - Restricted Less than Significant Potentially with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact Would the project expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: 10. Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone or ❑ ❑ ❑ � County Fault Hazard Zones 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 substantia! evidence of a known fault? A-P Zones NA ❑ S � PS ❑ U❑ R ❑ CFH Zones NA ❑ S � PS ❑ U❑ R ❑ Source: Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow � Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for fhe County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D). FindinQs of Fact: The site is not located within the Alquist-Priolo Special Studies or County Fault Hazard Zones. According to the Geotechnical Investigation (2007), no active faults are shown on or in the immediate viciniry of the site on published geologic maps, and no evidence for active faulting on or immediately adjacent to the site was observed during the geologic field reconnaissance or on the aerial photographs reviewed. Therefore, no impact would occur with implementation of the proposed project. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 33 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 11. Liquefaction Potential Zone Seismic-related ground failure, including � � � � liquefaction? NA ❑ S � PS ❑ U ❑ R ❑ Source: WCVAP Figure S-3 "Generalized Liquefaction", GIS database; Geofechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Sfation, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D); Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, Soufh of Gera/d Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside County, California 92211, EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007 (Appendix E). Findinqs of Fact: The project is located within a low Liquefaction Potential Zone. Depth to groundwater at the site is estimated between 268 and 283 feet below ground level, and the soil permeability (drainage) is expected to be medium to high. Exploratory borings on the project site to a maximum depth of 51.5 feet did not encounter groundwater. No unconsolidated sandy alluvium soils were encountered on-site. These conditions are necessary to create liquefaction potential. These findings support the determination of low liquefaction potential. Mitiaation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 12. Ground-shaking Zone Strong seismic ground shaking? ❑ � ❑ ❑ NA ❑ S ❑ PS � U ❑ R ❑ Source: WCVAP Figure S-18 "Inventory of Hazardous Materials"; Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D); Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, South of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside County, California 92211, EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007 (Appendix E). Findinps of Fact: No major faults are known to exist in the immediate project vicinity. The Western Coachella Valley is traversed by several active and potentially active fault zones, including the San Andreas Fault, and has experienced several earthquakes of moderate magnitude since records have been kept. The primary seismic hazards which result are ground shaking and the potential for ground rupture along the surface trace of the fault. Secondary seismic hazards result from the interaction of ground shaking with existing soil and bedrock conditions, and include liquefaction, settlement, and landslides. The project is located within a ground shaking zone. The nearest seismic fault, the San Andreas Fault, is located 3.9 miles northeast of the site. At that distance, strong ground shaking can be expected at the Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 34 of 67 EA#08250003764 site resulting from earthquakes magnitude 7.0 to 7.5 on the fault. While the proximity of the fault to the project could subject it to strong ground motion, such motion would not be greater than at other sites in seismically active southern California. The Geotechnical Investigation concluded that the presence of dry and loose to medium dense sandy soils to depths of up to 30 feet do not provide uniform or adequate support for the proposed project. The characteristics of the soil cause unacceptable differential and/or overall settlement upon application of the anticipated sill surcharges and foundation loads. Removal and recompaction of site soils or replacement with more suitable soils would stabilize the project site. Mitiqation: GEO-1: Prior to grading, the County shall review the recommendations of the projecYs Geotechnical Investigation (CHJ 2007) with the Palm Desert City Engineer or Public Works Director. Recommendations include those for seismic design, general site grading and initial site preparation, preparation of fill areas and footing areas, compacted fills, shrinkage and subsidence, and foundation design to ensure public health and safety. Monitorinq: County of Riverside Facilities Management Department and City of Palm Desert review of Geotechnical Recommendations. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 13. Landslide Risk 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, collapse, or rockfall hazards? NA ❑ S � PS ❑ U ❑ R ❑ Source: WCVAP Figures 15, "Steep Slopes" and 16, "Slope Instabiliry"; site visit; Geotechnical lnvestigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D); Phase 1 Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, South of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside Counfy, California 92211, EEf Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007 (Appendix E). Findinqs of Fact: The project is not affected by landslide or rock falling risks as the project site is not adjacent to any cliffs or boulder covered slopes. Topography on the site is gently undulating, without boulders or steep slopes. Therefore there is no impact associated with development of the site. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 35 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Signiflcant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 14. Ground Subsidence 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 ground subsidence? Source: WCVAP Figure 14, "Seismic Hazards;" site visit; Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D); Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, South of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-009, Palm Desert, Riverside County, Califomia 92211, EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007 (Appendix E). Findinqs of Fact: Subsidence of the ground surface has been reported in some areas of California. Principal causes have been fluid withdrawal (oil, gas, and water), soil collapse, and oxidation of organic-rich soil. Organic-rich soils with significant collapse potential were not encountered during the geotechnical investigation, and oil and gas resources are not known in the areas of the site. However, due to the overdraft condition of the aquifer under the Coachella Valley, areas in the east valley, in Palm Desert, for example, are experiencing some subsidence. As such, further geotechnical evaluation may be warranted prior to development of the site. Mitiqation: See GEO-1 above. Monitorina: County Facilities Management Department and City of Palm Desert review of Geotechnical Recommendations. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Signiflcant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 15. Other Geologic Hazards � � � � Such as seiche, mudflow or volcanic hazard? Source: Site visit; Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D). Findinqs of Fact: The project is not affected by geological hazard such as seiche, mudflow or volcanic hazard, because the site is not located near a body of water (seiche), is not located in an area of steep topography (mudflow) and is not located in an area know to experience volcanic activity (volcanic hazard). MitiQation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 36 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 16. Slopes a) Change topography or ground surface relief ❑ ❑ ❑ � features? b) Create cut or fill slopes greater than 2:1 or � � � � higher than 10 feet? c) Result in grading that affects or negates ❑ ❑ ❑ � subsurface sewage disposal systems? Source: Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ, Inc., June 2007 (Appendix D). Findinqs of Fact: a) The project is not affected by significant topography, surface features, or steep slopes. The project site lies between 286 and 304 feet above sea level and exhibits a moderate slope down to the northeast. b) No cut or fill slopes greater than 2:1 are planned and there will be no cut equaling or exceeding 10 feet. c) Sewage mains are located within the Gerald Ford Drive street right-of-way. There is no existing subsurface disposal system on-site. Therefore no impacts associated with significant changes in topography would occur. Mitiaation: None required Monitorina: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 17. SOIIS a) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of ❑ ❑ ❑ � topsoil? b) 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? Source: U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service Soil Survey; Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, Califomia, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ Inc., June 2007, (Appendix D); site visit. Findinqs of Fact: a) The project is not affected by significant topography, surface features or slopes or expansive soils. Prior to commencement of grading the County will prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) which will include a discussion of potential impacts associated with soil erosion or loss Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 37 of 67 EA#08250003764 �- �. "" of topsoil during grading and construction. Best Management Practices (BMPs), such as the �... development of bioswales on-site, will be implemented to minimize erosion due to wind (fugitive dust) or water (sediments transported by stormwater). .. �,,, The proposed development will result in most of the site either covered by structures or paved for walkways, driveways, or parking. The remainder of the site will be developed with groundcovers and �.• plant materials resistant to erosion. Therefore, during operation of the facilities, erosion would be .. controlled. , , b) The site soils are typical desert soils not conducive to expansion. Therefore, impacts associates with expansive soils would not occur. � ! Mitiqation: None required. -M Monitorinq: None required. "�" Less than +„r Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No � Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 18. Erosion "' a) Change deposition, siltation or erosion which � � � � may modify the channel of a river or stream or "" the bed of a lake? � b) Result in any increase in water erosion either � � � � m.. on or off site? -�- Source: U.S.D.A. Soil Conservation Service Soil Survey; Geotechnical Investigation, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, °^� California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, CHJ, Inc., June, 2007 (Appendix r„ D); site visit. � Findinas of Fact: , a) No rivers, streambeds or lakes are associated on or adjacent to the project site. ,,,. b) Construction Conditions. The proposed project could result in short-term adverse construction related impacts to surface water quality. Grading and construction within the site will expose ground ' surfaces and increase the potential for erosion and off-site transport of sediment in stormwater runoff. Additionally, the use of heavy equipment, machinery, and other materials during construction could result in adverse water qualiry impacts if spills encounter stormwater, and polluted runoff enters ""' downstream receiving waters. Construction activities involving more than one acre are required to obtain coverage under the Statewide National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) "' permit for construction related activities from the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB). —. The permit requires the property owner/developer to prepare and implement a project-specific SWPPP, which includes BMPs intended to reduce erosion, sedimentation, and non-permitted • discharges of materials during construction. The BMPs to be used during construction rypically ,,.,, include gravel bags, silt fencing, and general housekeeping measures to prevent stormwater contact with construction materials. The County will develop and implement a SWPPP which demonstrates ... compliance with the State NPDES permit, and provide protection of water quality during the w„ construction phases; therefore, no significant impacts to water quality are expected as a result of construction activities. "' Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 38 of 67 EA#08250003764 .�» from the air qualiry concerns, couple with the implementation of the County's BMPs which are project design features, would reduce the effects of blowsand to less than significant. MitiQation: Air quality mitigation measures outlined in Section 5 will address the affects of blowing sand and particulate matter. Temporary erosion control measures shall be implemented immediately following site grading to prevent depositions of debris onto downstream or downwind properties, public rights of way, or drainage facilities. No further mitigation required. MonitorinQ: Refer to the Air Qualiry section for monitoring information. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Im act Incor orated Im act Im act HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS Would the ro'ect: 20. Hazards and Hazardous Materials 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) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response ❑ ❑ ❑ � plan or an emergency evacuation plan? d) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, � � � � substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? e) 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? Source: County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health; Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Riverside Counfy Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, Soufh of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside County, California 92211, EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007 (Appendix E); site visit, site plans. Findinqs of Fact: a) The project would include the regular use and transport of gasoline and ethanol fuels. There would be one 10,000-gallon gasoline tank installed at inception of the project and a second 10,000-gallon tank for gasoline or alternative fuel is planned for buildout conditions. According to the Sheriff's Department, the current Sheriff Station fleet records approximately 4,000 miles a day Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 40 of 67 EA#08250003764 average vehicle miles traveled. Both the fleet and the mileage are expected to double by buildout (2025). Based on fuel usage for the current patrol units (Ford Crown Victoria's that average 15 miles per gallon) the station would use an estimated 194,667 gallons of gasoline per year by 2025. Frequency of fuel deliveries would range from 10 to 20 deliveries or more per year. However, fueling stations have strict safety requirements and are regulated by multiple agencies. All fueling facilities have an incremental safety risk in terms of accidents, however, the County will install and maintain all required safery and security devices and systems to protect the public from these risks. The County would also comply with all other applicable safety regulations. The fuel station and the fuel storage tank for the emergency generator at the central plant include double wall tanks and will retain any spills. If there is ever a spill at the fuel storage tanks, it will be contained by the double wall and removed by a licensed hazardous waste handler subcontractor. Therefore, impacts in regard to the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials are considered to be less than significant. Aside from fuel storage there will be no routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials other than weapons and ammunition utilized by the Sheriff's Department for law enforcement, which is stringently controlled in secure storage facilities. Information regarding the security and storage of these materials is not available to the public, but the hazard risk is considered less than significant as a result of the stringent controls. b) As the project does involve hazardous materials, upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment could occur as a result of this project. However, for reasons described in section 20 a), above, the impact regarding accident conditions as a result of the project would be less than significant. c) The project would not impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or an emergency evacuation plan. The facility would provide fuel for emergency vehicles and a command center for emergency management operations. Therefore, emergency services would directly benefit as a result of the proposed project. The nearest north-south evacuation route is Monterey Avenue, just west of the project. The City's Multi-Hazard Functional Plan and the Palm Desert Hazard Management Plan provide detailed information on emergency response policies. There will be no impact regarding emergency evacuation as a result of the project. d) The project is not within '/< mile of an existing or proposed school. Handling of hazardous or acutely hazardous materials near schools would not occur as a result of the project. There will be no impact in this regard as a result of the project. e) A review of historical aerial photos, maps and title information was conducted. The Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (ESA) includes the Environmental Data Resources (EDA) report (see Appendix E). No potential risk sites were identified with a one mile radius of the project site. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 41 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact 21. Airports a) Result in an inconsistency with an Airport ❑ ❑ ❑ � Master Plan? b) Require review by the Airport Land Use � � � � Commission? c) 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? d) For a project within the vicinity of a private airstrip, or heliport, would the project result in a � � � � safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? Source: WCVAP Figure S-19 "Airport Locations" Findings of Fact: (a—c) The project is not within an airport influence area boundary or otherwise affected by airpo�t issues as identified in the WCVAP. The nearest airport is the Bermuda Dunes Airport, over six miles to the southeast. The Palm Springs International Airport is located approximately 10 miles to the west of the project site. There would be no conflicts with an airport land use plan as a result of the project. d) The project includes a helipad that would be used infrequently, at an estimated rate of once a month or less. Fu�ther, the Sheriff's Department will be required to adhere to all Federal Aviation Regulations (FARs). Therefore, impacts to public health and safety would be less than significant. Mitiqation: None required. MonitorinQ: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact 22. Wildland Fires a) 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? ❑ ❑ ❑ � Source: WCVAP Figure 13, "Wildfire Susceptibility" Findinqs of Fact: The project is not located within an identified High Fire Area. The project is in an urban, developing area. Natural vegetation growth on-site is sparse. The project will totally develop the site and there will be minimal fuel for wildfires. There will be no impact regarding wildfire as a result of the project. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 42 of 67 EA#08250003764 Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Signiflcant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY Would the project: 23.Water Quality Impacts a) Violate any water quality standards or ❑ ❑ � ❑ waste discharge requirements? b) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in ❑ ❑ � ❑ a manner that would result in substantial erosion or siltation on-or off-site? c) 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)? d) Create or contribute runoff water that would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or ❑ ❑ � ❑ provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? e) 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? f) Place within a 100-year flood hazard area structures which would impede or redirect ❑ ❑ ❑ � flood flows? g) Otherwise substantially degrade water � � � � quality? h) Include new or retrofitted Stormwater Treatment Control BMPs (e.g., water quality treatment basins, constructed treatment � � � � wetlands), the operation of which could result in significant environmental effects (e.g., increased vectors and odors)? Source: Palm Desert General Plan, Riverside County General Plan; FEMA Map Service Center; DOFM project description, WCVAP Figure 12: "Flood Hazards"; site visits, HDR Architecture drawings. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 43 of 67 EA#08250003764 � Findins�s of Fact: a) Construction Conditions. The proposed project could result in short-term adverse construction related impacts to surface water quality. Grading and construction within the site will expose ground surfaces and increase the potential for erosion and off-site transport of sediment in stormwater runoff. Additionally, the use of heavy equipment, machinery, and other materials during construction could result in adverse water quality impacts if spills encounter stormwater, and polluted runoff enters downstream receiving waters. Construction activities involving more than one acre are required to obtain coverage under the Statewide NPDES permit for construction related activities from the SWRCB. The permit requires the property owner/developer to prepare and implement a project- specific SWPPP, which includes BMPs intended to reduce erosion, sedimentation, and non-permitted discharges of materials during construction. The BMPs to be used during construction typically include gravel bags, silt fencing, and general housekeeping measures to prevent stormwater contact with construction materials. The County will develop and implement a SWPPP which demonstrates compliance with the State NPDES permit, and provide protection of water quality during the construction phases; therefore, no significant impacts to water qualiry are expected as a result of construction activities. Operational Conditions. Water that currently flows across the site or is absorbed into the soils will be conveyed through the proposed surface drain system. Once developed, on-site stormwater flows will come into contact with developed surfaces that may contain pollutants. The primary potential source areas for pollutants include streets, refuse storage areas, and outside storage areas. Common pollutant sources associated with this type of development are mostly associates with the parking lot and driveways, as well as around the fueling station. Pollutants can also include trash, food waste, and detergents (vehicle wash). The County will be required to prepare a Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) that addresses BMPs for controlling urban pollutants from exiting the site during a storm event, or in conjunction with runoff from landscape irrigation. The project has been designed to collect stormwater from the rooftops and parking lots on-site, prefilter the debris, separate and remove any oil from the water, and discharge the filtered water into meandering earthen bottom bioswales along the perimeter of the project site. The bioswales will be lined with landscape rock and vegetation to prevent soil erosion. Stormwater generated on-site would not enter the stormdrain system. According to the Palm Desert Comprehensive General Plan, Flooding and Hydrology Element (March 13, 2004), the project area falls in the City's Zone 3, Drainage Area #7. In that area, only accumulated street flows can be conveyed to the Mid-Valley Channel through the stormwater pipes. Line 7-1 conveys street flows north along the future continuation of Portola Avenue, 0.5 mile from the site. The design of the stormwater filtration and conveyance on the Precise Grading Plan provided with the site plan indicates the project would comply with NPDES requirements and would have a less than significant impact to water quality. With implementation of BMPs, this impact would be less than significant. b) The site is flat and does not contain any drainage or wetland features. No streams, rivers or significant drainage systems cross the site. There will be no impact to streams and rivers as a result of the project. Sheet runoff will be collected and retained on-site through a series of bioswales along the boundary of the site. These bioswales would act as linear retention basins and be developed with pervious material (sand and gravel) and vegetation. Landscaping for the project is designed to minimize sheet erosion by using erosion resistant gravel and fines in combination with weed barrier fabric. Any erosion and siltation would be minimal and would end up in the filtration system or the infiltration Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 44 of 67 EA#08250003764 basins on-site. These systems would be maintained regularly by the County to ensure they are kept in proper working order. The NPDES, which is administered locally by the Colorado River Water Qualiry Control Board (CRWQCB), mandates that adjacent properties shall not be adversely affected by runoff from a development project. This most basic requirement was considered in the development of the on-site stormwater management design. The grading plan indicates that the flows are not directed toward adjacent properties, but rather to the frontage of the fenced off project site. Therefore, there would be a less than significant impact in this regard. c) Vacant desert land existing on the project site would be replaced with buildings, driveways and paved parking structures, thereby reducing the area available for natural water percolation. However, the water detention system proposed for the site will induce percolation into the soil. The soil is sandy and very well drained, so there should be good penetration and little evapotranspiration losses. Therefore, impact to groundwater inflow will be less than significant. The Coachella Valley is currently in an aquifer overdraft condition. Aquifer overdraft can lead to subsidence of the land, causing property damage such as foundation cracks and damage to underground utilities. Subsidence from aquifer overdraft has been documented regularly in the project vicinity by the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). The project area obtains its water supply from CVWD, from groundwater wells. Because of the overdraft situation, water conservation programs are increasingly important. Therefore, in addition to following conservation program rules established in the service agreement with CVWD, and other conditions of approval established by the City, the County is investigating ways to recycle gray-water. The net impact on groundwater outflow for the proposed facility would be less than significant. d) The project will be connected to the CVWD sanitary sewer system and all stormwater runoff will be collected on-site and filtered through a holding/dispersal system that filters petroleum and other pollutants. After filtering, the stormwater will be released to the bioswales around the perimeter of the site. Bioswales are landscape elements designed to remove silt and pollution from surface runoff water. A bioswale has a depressed drainage area with gently sloped sides and is filled with vegetation, composting material, rock or rip rap. The wide and shallow ditch filled with vegetation is designed to maximize the time water spends in the swale, which aids the trapping of pollutants and silt. The bioswale for this project has a meandering channel alignment filled with vegetation which helps to slow the water even more. The swale also contributes to the breakdown of certain pollutants through biological processes in the plants and soil, thus correcting water quality. On-site and off-site stormwater drainage systems will not be impacted by a 100-year flood event. On- site detention is required to hold the estimated floodwater generated from a 100-year flood event. Stormwater will not enter the storm drain system. Due to these design features there will be no significant impact regarding stormwater runoff. e) The site is not within a 100-year flood zone and no residential development is included in this project. No impact regarding 100-year flood is anticipated as a result of this project. f) The site is not within a 100-year flood hazard area. No impact regarding 100-year flood is anticipated as a result of this project. g) Pollutants could be introduced into stormwater from discharge of fleet fueling and washing facilities and parking lot run-off on-site. To counteract this potential impact, the project would have an on-site oil and water separator to filter and collect any petroleum products before they could enter the stormwater containment system. Bioswales on-site would further clarify the water runoff. Similarly, the vehicle wash area would have pollution containment features (filters) which would allow for the Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 45 of 67 EA#08250003764 capture and cleansing of tainted water. Additionally, the Fire Department regulates fuel storage tanks. The sophisticated containment procedures and spill contingency plans required preclude contamination of stormwater by fuel, because accidental discharges are prevented through containment and are cleaned up in a timely manner through staff training, reporting and dry spill cleanup procedures. Further, the County would be required to comply with the wastewater discharge requirements of the NPDES permit, which includes long-term maintenance of filters, pipes and filtration systems. There is no external stormwater treatment facility associated with the project. A less than significant impact conceming stormwater pollution is anticipated as a result of this project. Due to the abundance of conditions of approval and regulations which apply to the fleet fuel facilities and oversized vehicle wash area from the Regional Water Qualiry Control Board (RWQCB) for example, no additional mitigation would be required. h) There are no drainages or wetlands associated with the site that could produce mosquitoes or other vectors. Stormwater runoff will be retained on-site. Stormwater detention features are included in the site design. The bioswales and dry wells could potentially hold water long enough to produce mosquitoes temporarily, but by performing the required maintenance on filters within the system, this will not be a significant problem. Soil infiltration rates for the Myoma fine sand that exists on-site is very well drained due to the high sand content. Therefore, no significant impact is anticipated. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Signiflcant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Signiflcant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact 24. Flood Plains Degree of Suitability in 100-Year Floodplains. As indicated below, the appropriate Degree of Suitability has been checked. NA- Not Applicable � U - Generally Unsuitable ❑ R— Restricted ❑ a) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including 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? b} Changes in absorption rates or the rate � � � � and amount of surface runoff? c) 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 (Dam Inundation Area)? d) Changes in the amount of surface water in � � � � any water body? Source: WCVAP Figure 12: "Flood Hazards"; site visits; architects concept drawings Findinqs of Fact: a) The drainage pattern of the project site would be altered to provide a controlled flow of stormwater to bioswales on-site. The altered drainage pattems are designed to be environmentally beneficial rather than adverse. The surrounding topography has a very gentle slope and no flooding Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 46 of 67 EA#08250003764 tendencies, so there will be no significant effect on drainage patterns off-site. The project is not influenced by flooding and drainage issues as identified in the WCVAP. The site is not located in a "Flood Zone" on the federal Flood Insurance Rate Maps. No stream course or river will be altered and there will be no run-off to cause flooding on or off-site. Stormwater will be detained on-site. Less than significant impact is anticipated. b) Natural absorption rates will be altered; however, the detention system designed for the project includes retention on-site that would re-introduce clarified stormwater into the ground. The County shall maintain required stormwater, flood control and drainage facilities in a safe condition, in good repair and in a manner capable of being operated as designed. Impacts are therefore less than significant. c) The site is not within a flood zone and is not downstream or adjacent to a dam or levee impounding water. Therefore, there is no significant risk or exposure of people to loss of life, injury or death related to flooding. No impact is anticipated as a result of this project. d) The site does not affect the amount of surface water in any water body. There is no water body on or near the site; therefore, there will be no impact associated with this issue. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact LAND USE AND PLANNING Would the project: 25. Land Use a) Result in a substantial alteration of the ❑ ❑ � ❑ present or planned land use of an area? b) Affect land use within a city sphere of influence and/or within adjacent city or ❑ ❑ � ❑ counry boundaries? Source: WCVAP; Riverside County Land Information System; City of Palm Desert General Plan; City of Palm Desert Zoning Code Findinas of Fact: a) The project will alter the City of Palm Desert designated land use in the Zoning Ordinance from Planned Development Residential to Public Facilities District. The surrounding area is currently being developed with Planned Development Residential projects particularly on the north side of Gerald Ford Drive. The site is currently vacant, owned by the City of Palm Desert and no other uses are proposed. The impact is less than significant to land use policy. b) The site is within the corporate limits of the City of Palm Desert. City officials have collaborated in selecting this site as an appropriate location for the Sheriff Station. No other city of sphere of influence is impacted. Impacts are less than significant as a result of this project. MitiQation: None required. Monitorinp: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 47 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 26. Planning a) Be consistent with the site's existing or ❑ ❑ � ❑ proposed zoning? b) Be compatible with existing surrounding � � � � zoning? c) Be compatible with existing and planned � � � � surrounding land uses? d) Be consistent with the land use designations and policies of the � � � � Comprehensive General Plan (including those of any applicable Specific Plan)? e) Disrupt or divide the physical arrangement of an established communiry (including a low- ❑ ❑ ❑ � income or minority community)? Source: WCVAP, GIS database, project materials, City of Palm Desert Zoning Code, 2004 and General Plan, 2004. Findinas of Fact: a) The project is located within the City of Palm Desert on land designated as Planned Residential (PR). The zoning of the project site will be changed to Public Facilities District, as specified by the City of Palm Desert. Therefore there will be consistency with the site's proposed zoning, and the project will have a less than significant impact. b) The layout of the project, the landscaping and architecture will be designed to reduce visual and physical impacts to the existing and future neighborhoods. Impacts would then be less than significant. (For details, see Site Plan with Landscaping Plan in Exhibit 5a and Perspective Sketch at Exhibit 6). c) Although there has been some concern about placing a Sheriff Station in a predominantly residential area, the project is compatible with existing and planned surrounding land uses. Residents expect police and fire department facilities in a planned residential setting. Therefore, the impact on surrounding land uses will be less than significant. d) Due to the style of government offered in Palm Desert, General Plan Amendments can be made as needed, and are not limited as they are in "general law" cities. Therefore the General Plan will be updated to reflect the Public Facilities District zoning of the site and the project will be consistent with the Comprehensive General Plan. This will result in no impact to the land use and zoning policies therein. e) No community is physically disrupted or divided by the project. The project is located on vacant land in befinreen separate residential communities. No access roads or contiguous features, such as links on a golf course, are segmented or eliminated. No impact in this regard as a result of this project. Mitiqation: None required. MonitorinA: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 48 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact MINERAL RESOURCES Would the project 27. Mineral Resources a) Result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource in an area classified or ❑ ❑ ❑ � designated by the State that would be of value to the region or 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? c) Be an incompatible land use located adjacent to a State classified or designated ❑ ❑ ❑ � area or existing surface mine? d) Expose people or property to hazards from proposed, existing or abandoned quarries or ❑ ❑ ❑ � mines? Source: Riverside Counry General Plan Figure MS-5 "Mineral Resources Area". FindinQs of Fact: The project site is not designated as a mineral resource zone nor does it contain potential mineral resources; the project is not located adjacent to an existing or abandoned mine or quarry. No impacts associates with mineral resources would occur. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigatlon Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact NOISE Would the project result in: Definitions for Noise Acceptability Ratings Where indicated below, the appropriate Noise Acceptability Rating(s) has been checked. NA- Not Applicable A - Generally Acceptable B - Conditionally Acceptable C - Generally Unacceptable D - Land Use Discouraged 28. Airport Noise a) 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? NA � A ❑ B ❑ C ❑ D ❑ Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 49 of 67 EA#08250003764 b) 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? NA� A❑ B ❑ C ❑ D ❑ Source: Riverside County General Plan Figure S-19 "Airport Locations", Counry of Riverside Airport Facilities Map Findinas of Fact: The project is not within two miles of a public airport, nor is it within an airport land use plan. The project is not within the vicinity of a private airstrip. The nearest airport to the project site is the Bermuda Dunes Airport, more than 6 miles to the southeast. The distance to the airport precludes a significant impact to the project site. The Palm Springs International Airport is located approximately 10 miles west of the project site. Although not associated with airports, a helipad has been proposed for the project in a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop area of the employee parking lot. The potential impacts of the helipad are discussed below under Impact 32a. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 29. Railroad Noise NA � A ❑ B ❑ C ❑ D ❑ ❑ ❑ � ❑ Source: WCVAP Figure 7 "Circulation Plan"; Riverside County General Plan S-21 Rail Facilities, Available Water, Oil and Natural Gas Pipelines Inventory Data"; Thomas Guide 2006 Edition; Site Visit Findinqs of Fact: The project is located approximately 0.5 mile south of a heavily-traveled Union Pacific Railroad line. Noise levels from the operation of the railroad line would not be expected to contribute to a substantial increase in noise at the proposed project based on the existing noise levels from traffic in the project area (see Section 32a below). In addition, intervening development would further reduce noise in the project area and serve to attenuate any noise from the railroad at the project site. Finally, the nature of the project is not considered a noise sensitive use. Therefore, based on these criteria, impacts from the Union Pacific Railroad would be less than significant. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 50 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact 30. Highway Noise � � � � NA � A ❑ B ❑ C ❑ D ❑ Source: Riverside County General Plan; site visit. Findinqs of Fact: Interstate Highway 10, a major east-west transcontinental freeway, is located approximately 0.5 mile north of the project. Although freeway traffic noise can be heard on-site, due to intervening existing development, ambient noise generated by the freeway is attenuated by distance and structures. In addition, as discussed under Section 32a below, existing noise levels from traffic in the project area are high, and freeway noise from I-10 would not contribute to a substantial noise increase. Therefore, impacts from the traffic on I-10 would be less than signifrcant. Mitipation: None required. Monitorinp: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Signiflcant with Mitlgation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 31. Other Noise NA � A ❑ B ❑ C ❑ D ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ � Source: Riverside County General Plan; project description and materials Findinqs of Fact: The project is not influenced by other unique noise issues as identified in the Riverside County General Plan, Noise Element. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Im act Incor orated Im act Im act _ 32. Noise Effects on or by the Project ❑ � ❑ a) A substantial permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? b) A substantial temporary or periodic increase ❑ � ❑ ❑ in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? c) 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? Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 51 of 67 E,4#08250003764 d) Exposure of persons to or generation of ❑ ❑ � ❑ excessive ground borne vibration or ground borne noise levels? Source: Project materials and description; site visit. Findinqs of Fact: a) and c): Long-term noise generated from the project is related primarily to the increase in vehicle traffic on the surrounding roadways and stationary noise associated with operation of the project. Existing and future noise levels along Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue are high (68.6 to 69.3 dBA CNEL). However, the project's contribution to roadway noise along these roadway segments is not substantial (between 0.3 to 0.8 dBA) and would not be perceptible. For this reason, project generated traffic noise along these roadway segments are not substantial. Project generated traffic noise has the greatest impact on Gerald Ford Drive. However, the project generated increase in noise levels along this roadway segment is less than 1 dBA and total roadway noise is within the City standards for residential land uses. For these reasons, project generated traffic noise impacts will not create a substantial permanent increase in noise levels or expose people to noise levels above the City standards. As mentioned under Section 28, above, a helipad has been proposed for the project in a 20-foot by 20-foot rooftop area of the employee parking lot. Helicopter descent and take-off would create substantial noise in the project area for brief periods. The Sheriff's Office has indicated that this helipad will be used for emergency purposes only. The aircraft that would be used at the helipad is the EADS Eurocopter AS350 63. Noise levels for this aircraft are not available in the manufacturer's specifications. However, noise levels from similar aircraft can be used to estimate noise levels for the AS 350 B3. Descent and take-off of this type of aircraft would be approximately 80 dBA at 250 feet from the aircraft landing area (increased by distance to 86 dBA at 125 feet and 92 dBA at 63 feet). Although the noise would be substantial and intrusive during landing and take-off, for the residential receptors to the north and east of the project site, the infrequency of use would make the impact similar to fly-overs of small aircraft and helicopters currently occurring in the area. Additionally, the location of the helipad has been designed to be oriented away from the existing urban residential uses to the north and east of the project site and further shielded from those areas by the office and warehouse structures; and therefore these buildings, along with distance, would serve to attenuate the noise levels from helicopter operation. Therefore, helicopter noise would not create a substantial permanent increase in noise levels at nearby residential receptors, although workers at the project site would experience brief impacts. Additionally, helicopter activity at the project site would not contribute to an increase in noise levels over existing noise levels from traffic (see discussion above) and would not be expected to cause an exceedance of City standards for the residential receptors to the north and east of the project site. b) Construction activities on the site may create substantial short-term noise increases near the project site. Construction periods would be of short duration. The most noise-intensive pe�iod would be when scrapers and dozers are used during grading. Equipment noise could reach 90 dB at 50 feet from such equipment when operating under full load. Under normal atmospheric losses, peak levels up to 65 dB may be heard as far as 1,000 feet from the operating equipment. Construction activiry impacts during the noisiest activities could thus extend as far as approximately 1,000 feet from the activity. Receptors at the single-family residences to the north and east and the resort complex to the west may experience temporary high-noise levels during peak construction periods, which may result in a temporary significant impact. Mitigation has been proposed below to reduce impacts to less than significant. d) Ground-borne vibration can result from both construction and operation of the project. The most perceptible ground-borne vibration from construction is typically associated with blasting Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 52 of 67 EA#08250003764 operations and the use of pile drivers, neither of which would be used during construction of the proposed project. However, typical construction equipment could cause vibration in the immediate project viciniry. Based on the distance to the nearest sensitive receptors, and the implementation of mitigation measure N-1 below, ground-borne vibration from project construction would not result in significant impacts. The project is not expected to result in increased truck traffic which would cause ground-borne vibration in the project vicinity. Therefore, there would be no impact from ground-borne vibration during operation of the proposed project. Mitiqation: N-1: Prior to grading plan approval, the grading plan shall state the following, 1) construction equipment shall be equipped with mufflers and maintained in accordance with the equipments' factory specifications, 2) during construction activities, the construction equipment muffler and maintenance records shall be on-site, 3) where practicable, noise- generating equipment shall be shielded from nearby noise-sensitive receptors by noise- attenuating buffers such as structures or haul trucks trailers, 4) on-site noise sources such as heavy equipment shall be located as far as possible from noise-sensitive receptors and shall be equipped with noise-reducing engine housings, 5) portable acoustic barriers able to attenuate at least 6 d6 shall be placed around noise-generating equipment located within 300 feet of existing residences, and 6) water tanks and equipment storage, staging, and warm-up areas shall be located as far from noise-sensitive receptors as possible. N-2: Helicopter take-off and landings from the facility will avoid residential areas to the greatest extent possible. The Sheriff's Department will comply with all Federal Aviation Regulations (FAR's) Monitorinq: Periodic noise monitoring reports shall be conducted and retained on file. Less than Significant Potentially with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact POPULATION AND HOUSING Would the project: 33. Housing a) Displace substantial numbers of existing � � � � housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? b) Create a demand for additional housing, particularly housing affordable to households � � � � earning 80% or less of the Counry's median income? c) Displace substantial numbers of people, necessitating the construction of replacement ❑ ❑ ❑ � housin elsewhere? d) Affect a City Redevelopment Project Area? ❑ e) Cumulatively exceed official regional or � � � � local population projections Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 53 of 67 EA#08250003764 fl Induce substantial population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or ❑ ❑ � ❑ indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? Source: Project description and materials, GIS database, viciniry maps, site visit. FindinQs of Fact: a) The site is undeveloped, vacant land. No housing will be displaced; therefore, there is no impact. b) The anticipated growth of staffing for the Sheriff Station is expected to be from a total of 203 at opening to 450 at buildout in the year 2025. Some of the additions to the staff will be persons already residing in the area and some will commute. A staff increase of 220 persons over a period of 15 years (averaging 14.7 per year) would create a less than significant demand on additional housing in the Coachella Valley. Almost all of the employees at the Sheriff Station will earn salaries equaling or exceeding 80 percent of the median income. Impacts are less than significant. c) The site is vacant; no one will be displaced and no replacement housing will be required. There will be no impacts. d) The site is within City Redevelopment Project Area 2; therefore, there will be no impacts. e) With a total of 220 anticipated new employees, the cumulative impacts to local or regional population growth projection is less than significant. fl The small number of projected new employees (220) does not represent substantial population growth and would not induce substantial population growth. Instead, the development of a new Sheriff's station in the Coachella Valley is a response to population growth. Mitipation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact PUBLIC SERVICES Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered government facilities or the 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: 34. Fire Services ❑ ❑ � ❑ Source: Riverside County General Plan, Safety Element Findinps of Fact: The Riverside County Fire Department serves the area. The nearest facility is at 73995 Country Club Drive in Palm Desert. The �re station includes one City engine and one City medic ambulance. Development of the Sheriff Station is not anticipated to significantly impact the level of service for this Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 54 of 67 EA#0B250003764 facility since the building will be constructed of fire resistant materials and will contain sprinkler . systems. Less than significant impact on fire services is anticipated. Mitiaation: None required. � Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Signiflcant with Mitigation Significant No ' Im act Inco orated Im act Im act 35. Sheriff Services ❑ � Source: Project description, development plans Findinqs of Fact: The project is a new Sheriff Station for the City of Palm Desert and will improve police services to the City. The impact is positive. . Mitiaation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Signiflcant Mitigation Significant No Im act Incor orated Im act Im act 36. Schools � ❑ Source: Riverside County General Plan; Desert Sands Unified School District. Findinps of Fact: The addition of 220 employees would result in a maximum of approximately 64 students (0.29 per household) over a period of 15 years into the various Coachella Valley school districts if each new employee resulted in the establishment of a new household. This increase of students within the entire school age population (over 60,000) in the Coachella Valley is less than significant. Mitipation: None required. Monitoring: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than � Significant with Mitigation Significant No Im act Incor orated Im act Im act 37. Libraries ❑ ❑ � Source: Project description Findinas of Fact: The 220 anticipated new employees of the Sheriff Station and their families represent less than two tenths of one percent of the population of the Coachella Valley and therefore an insignificant increase Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 55 of 67 EA#08250003764 in the potential clients of the Riverside County Library. Impacts on the library system will be less than significant. Mitiaation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Im act Inco orated Im act Im act 38. Health Services ❑ Source: Riverside County General Plan Findinas of Fact: The new employees and their families would be dispersed throughout the area and represent less than two tenths of one percent of the population of the Coachella Valley. Their impact on health services would be less than significant. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact _ RECREATION 39. Parks and Recreation a) Would the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or � � � � expansion of recreational facilities which . might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? b) Would the project include the use of „, existing neighborhood or regional parks or other recreational facilities such that ❑ ❑ ❑ � substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? � c) Is the project located within a C.S.A. or recreation and park district with a Community ❑ ❑ ❑ � Parks and Recreation Plan (Quimby fees)? Source: Riverside County Land Management System, Riverside Counry Codified Ordinances, Parks and Open Space Department Review. Findinqs of Fact: a-c) The project site is not within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park -� District, a public agency designated to receive land dedication or fees. The proposed project would not result in an increase in district population generating a need for additional parkland in neighborhood parks. The new employees and their families would be dispersed throughout the area Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 56 of 67 EA#08250003764 and represent less than two tenths of one percent of the population of the Coachella Valley. No impact on recreational facilities would occur with project implementation. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Im act Inco orated tm act Im act 40. Recreational Trails ❑ Source: City of Palm Desert Comprehensive General Plan, Parks and Recreation Element; RCIP, Western Coachella Valley Area Plan Findings of Fact: No recreational trails exist on or near the project site. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC Would the project 41. Circulation a) Cause an increase in traffic which is substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., resuft in ❑ ❑ � ❑ a substantial increase in either the number of . vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or con estion at intersections ? b) Result in inadequate parking capacity ❑ ❑ ❑ . c) Exceed, either individually or cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the � � � � county congestion management agency for . designated road or highways? d) 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? e) Alter waterborne, rail or air traffic? ❑ ❑ ❑ � � Substantially increase hazards to a design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous � � � � intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g. farm equipment)? g) Cause an effect upon, or a need for new or � � � ❑ altered maintenance of roads? Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 57 of 67 EA#08250003764 h) Cause an effect upon circulation during the � � � � project's construction? i) Result in inadequate emergency access or � � � � access to nearby uses? j) Conflict with adopted policies supporting alternative transportation (e.g. bus turnouts, ❑ ❑ ❑ � bicycle racks)? Source: Riverside County General Plan; City of Palm Desert General Plan, Circulation Element; project design, project purpose. Findinas of Fact: Patrol units will travel more miles than employees or visitors traveling to and from the Sheriff Station. For example, in Palm Desert, the patrol units average 1,300 miles per day (6 beats x 3 shifts) or 72 miles per day/car x 18 cars (Palm Desert Police Department, 2007). In Rancho Mirage, the patrol units average 630 miles per day (3 beats x 3 shifts) about 70 miles per day/car x 9 cars. In Indian Wells, the patrol units average 210 miles per day (1 beat x 3 shifts) about 70 miles per day/car x 3 cars. In Riverside Counry, patrol units average 1800 miles per day (3 beats x 3 shifts) about 200 miles per day/car x 9 cars (Palm Desert Police Department, 2007). This does not include other dedicated units (i.e., investigators, traffic enforcement, and special teams). Thus, to estimate the number of miles that the patrol deputies may drive per day at buildout, 16 cars times 72 miles per day per car equals approximately 1,152 miles per day. The project will result in a minor increase in local traffic in the vicinity of the traffic. Parking on-site will be adequate to handle Sheriff's personnel and visitors to the station. Because of the minor traffic volume generated, the project will not result in a degradation of the level of service standard in the area. No water, rail or air traffic would be affected. Other than the access drives into the project, there are no intersections or hazardous features created by the project. a) Palm Desert streets in the vicinity (Gerald Ford Drive and Portola Avenue) are of adequate "' width and are signalized at intersections to carry a normal urban traffic load of thousands of cars per day. In addition, the City plans to widen Gerald Ford Drive by 20 feet on each side of the street as development in the vicinity occurs. With shifts of a total of 149 personnel on-site at one time and a --• daily visitation rate of 132 people, the addition of this facility will not increase the ambient traffic by a significant percentage, especially during peak hours at buildout. _ b) Parking on-site as given in the program overview includes 470 spaces, including 85 for the visiting public. The remainder is secure spaces for Sheriffs vehicles and employees. Parking is adequate to serve the facility and should be a less than significant impact. c) Traffic impacts generated by the project are not anticipated to exceed the capacity of the level of service (LOS) at nearby intersections. Portola Road is ultimately projected to include an interchange with the I-10 Freeway and the next closest intersection along Gerald Ford Drive is the " intersection with Monterey Drive, also a connection to I-10. Each shift is 10 hours and there would be a two hour overlapping of shifts. Day shift is from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday. Even if these shift changes occur at peak hours, this project will have a less than significant impact on the level of service. d) There are no nearby airports and none of the nearby streets connect with airport facilities. � There is no impact from this project. e) There are no connections to waterborne, rail or air traffic associated with the project or nearby to the project. No impacts are anticipated. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 58 of 67 EA#08250003764 � There are no sharp curves or dangerous intersections created by the project. The entry drive will be constructed with adequate turn radii and sight distances. No adverse impacts are anticipated. g) The amount of tra�c generated by the project (less than 1,000 cars per day, with all shifts and all visitors) should not cause significant wear and tear on the existing roadway system. Normal maintenance and improvement by the City will address all required street improvements and repairs. h) The numbers and rypes of vehicles involved in project construction of this kind do not typically significantly hinder traffic flow as long as there is no street blockage. This project will not involve the closing of streets. Minor impacts will result from the delivery of equipment and building materials. Impacts will be less than significant. i) Street widths and intersections in the project vicinity are adequate for emergency access in the area. The site design is configured to allow easy emergency access if required. No impacts are anticipated. j) The design and implementation of this project would have no impact on alternative transportation policy. Bicycle racks and bus turnouts would be included in the project design. No impacts are anticipated. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Im act Inco orated Im act Im act 42. Bike Trails ❑ ❑ Source: WCVAP Figure 8, "Trails and Bikeway System"; site visit Findinas of Fact: � There are no designated bike paths or trails in the vicinity. Mitipation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact ' UTILITY AND SERVICE SYSTEMS Would the project � 43. Water a) Require or result in the construction of new water treatment facilities or expansion of � � � � existing facilities, the construction of which would cause significant environmental effects? Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 59 of 67 EA#08250003764 b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project from existing entitlements � � � � and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? Source: CVWD, City of Palm Desert, www.carcd.org/wisp/coachellavalley/index.htm, web article by the Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District citing Coachella Valley on water consumption. Findinqs of Fact: Water supply continues to be a very important issue in the Coachella Valley. Overdraft of the underground aquifers, which is the main source of water for the western Coachella Valley, currently occurs at a rapid pace. Projects such as the Mid Valley Pipeline, which will facilitate recycling of treated wastewater for golf course i�rigation, are currently in development. According to CVWD, a rypical golf course uses an average of 1,000 acre feet of water per year. The Mid Valley Pipeline will help recycle 35,000 acre feet of wastewater per year, allowing 50 golf courses to use recycled wastewater instead of only 12 that currently use it. This pipeline, scheduled to come online after 2010, will practically offset the overdraft conditions. In combination with programs to cut urban usage, the Coachella Valley will have enough groundwater to sustainably supply current and future growth, including the proposed project. According to the Sheriff's Department, estimated sta�ng for the proposed facility is 450 personnel total, with 149 staff on-site and 132 visitors each weekday at build-out. Based on an average of 10 gallons per person per day for public uses, the potable water consumption associated with the project would be approximately 2,810 gallons per day at buildout. Additionally, although the station would not be used as the fleet vehicle wash, a conservative estimate of 10 vehicles a month would be washed on-site. A hose bib with a spray nozzle would use approximately 150 gallons per vehicle (maximum hose bib output of 15 gallons per minute times 10 minutes per vehicle) and would service approximately 2 vehicles per week, for a total of 50 gallons per day. The total estimated water usage for the project is 2,859 gallons per day. The total annual water use for the project would be approximately 3.20 acre feet (1,043,650 gallons per year). The total CVWD annual consumption of � ground water is 374,361 acre feet. The water consumption by the proposed project represents 0.00085 percent of the current Coachella Valley water use. The water supply would come from groundwater supplied by CVWD. Based on these numbers, the project would not require construction of new water treatment facilities or the expansion of existing facilities. Existing entitlements are sufficient to supply the projects water needs. Landscaping typically uses a large percentage of overall water consumption on a property. The Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance for Palm Desert (PDMC 24.04) mandates specific conservation ' techniques. Water conservation policy would be observed in the design of the landscaping for the project so that excessive water needs would be avoided. Desert plants would be used instead of grass and subterranean irrigation would be installed (Exhibit 5). Recycled water could eventually be � used for landscaping needs so no well water would be used for irrigation. The Ciry of Palm Desert and the CVWD each have policies and plans to reduce water usage by at least 10 percent by 2010, to avoid groundwater overdraft. The adopted water conservation strategies are standard conditions of -- approval for any new development. The landscaping plans that are submitted to the city prior to development must reflect water conservation strategies. As a result, impacts would be less than significant. MitiQation: None required. „ Monitorinq: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 60 of 67 EA#08250003764 Less than Potentially Significant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Signiflcant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 44. Sewer a) Require or result in the construction of new wastewater treatment facilities, including septic � � � � systems, or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which would cause significant environmental effects? b) Result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may service the project that it has adequate � � � � capacity to serve the projecYs projected demand in addition to the provider's existing commitments? Source: Coachella Valley Water District; Palm Desert General Plan. Findinqs of Fact: (a and b): As a new facility, the project will be a new source of wastewater. A 12 inch sewer service pipe exists under Gerald Ford Drive adjacent to the northem property boundary, so only a lateral hookup is required. If 4,500 gallons of wastewater per day is used as a base, the project would create about 5 acre feet of wastewater per year. The CVWD provides wastewater collection and treatment services for the area, with effluent being conveyed to the CVWD Cook Street plant in Palm Desert. The CVWD has recently completed the expansion of the facility, doubling the capacity from 10 to 20 million gallons per day, and has upgraded sewer lines serving the City. The CVWD has also expanded its reclaimed wastewater distribution system for irrigation, adding additional golf course � customers, and is modifying operations to allow 24-hour delivery of tertiary treated water. The CVWD � reserves the right to place conditions of service in the service agreement in order to meet the stated service goals it has established. Therefore, impacts to wastewater treatment will be less than significant. "' Mitiqation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Less than Potentially Significant Less Than ._ Slgnificant with Mltigation Significant Impact Incorporated Impact No Impact 45. Solid Waste a} Is the project served by a landfill with � � � � �' sufficient permitted capacity to accommodate , the projecYs solid waste disposal needs? b) Comply with federal, state, and local N statutes and regulations related to solid � � � � wastes (including the CIWMP (County Integrated Waste Management Plan)? Source: Riverside County General Plan, Riverside County Waste Management Department website Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 61 of 67 EA#08250003764 Findinqs of Fact: . a-b) Burrtec Waste Industries, Inc. provides solid waste disposal services. A variety of residential and commercial services are available to meet recycling and waste reduction goals, including curbside recycling and household hazardous waste collection. Most solid waste is taken to Edom Hill Transfer Station, which is also managed by Burrtec. Burrtec also provides a resource recovery/recycling service to the communities. This includes provision of crates or other containers for the separation of cans, glass and newsprint by residents for once per week pickup. Trash generated by this facility will primarily consist of boxes and paper product. The County of Riverside would provide opportunities for recovery/recycling of cans, glass and paper because it is committed by policy to conserving, recycling and recovering materials. The amount of solid waste generated by the project during and after construction should be less than significant. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Potentially Signiflcant Less Than Significant with Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 46. Utilities a) Would the project impact the following facilities requiring or resulting in the construction of new facilities or the expansion of existing facilities; the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? • a) electricity ❑ ❑ � ❑ b) natural gas ❑ ❑ _ ❑ � � c) Communications systems ❑ � ❑ • d) Stormwater drainage? ❑ ❑ � ❑ ,� e) Street lighting? ❑ ❑ ❑ � f) Maintenance of public facilities, including � � � � roads? q) Other governmental services? ❑ ❑ ❑ � h) Conflict with adopted energy conservation � � � � plans? Source: U.S. Green Building Council website (www.usqbc.orQ/LEED/); communications with Riverside County Facilities Management District staff; site visit; site plan diagram (Exhibit 5a). Findinqs of Fact: a) The facility design will incorporate the latest available electrical energy conservation features, as feasible. Energy efficient technologies will reduce the need for the construction of new facilities or the expansion of existing facilities; the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects, to less than significant levels. Development of this project will meet the specifications of the LEED Green Building Rating System. There are both environmental and financial benefits to earning LEED certification. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 62 of 67 EA#08250003764 It is important to note the presence of high powered electrical transmission lines which run parallel to the site north of Gerald Ford Drive. During construction, labor crews will be instructed to avoid existing utility facilities and to observe active utility corridors and easements. Any placement of electrical and telephone lines underground would be coordinated with the affected utiliry as required. b) Although the project has the option to use natural gas as a source of power for some functions, its usage will not have an impact on the construction or expansion of new facilities outside the project. c) Although Sheriff Stations typically rely on a variery of communication systems, the project as proposed will not strain resources to the point where new facilities would be needed. This would reduce the impacts to communication facilities to less than significant. d) The project design will contain on-site stormwater retention features, such as bioswales. The architect/engineer will provide stormwater calculations and design the structure(s) so that the stormwater retention feature has sufficient capaciry to hold project generated stormwater. As a result, the impacts of the project regarding stormwater will be less than significant. e) The project will not create a need for additional street lighting, as the required lighting is part of the facility design. There will be no impact. f) The County has a facilities management plan in place for all facilities under its charge. This project will take advantage of that program, which is pre-existing. No further facilities will be required; therefore the affect of the project regarding maintenance of public facilities will be less than significant. g) No governmental services will be adversely affected as a result of this project. No impacts are anticipated. h) The Project does not conflict with adopted energy conservation plans; however, it should � support energy conservation efforts. The Ciry of Palm Desert is a forerunner in conservation efforts in . the Coachella Valley and statewide. The City seeks to reduce energy use citywide by 30 percent over the next 5 years. The impacts would be less than significant. _, Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinca: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Signiflcant Mitigation Significant No � Impact Incorporated Impact Impact MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE 47. 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, reduce the number or restrict the range of a rare, or endangered plant or animal to eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 63 of 67 EA#08250003764 Source: Staff review, Application materials FindinQs of Fact: The proposed project will pose no significant impacts to biological resources after mitigation is incorporated. Mitigation measures related to biological resources, as well as discussion of the issues, are further discussed in the Biological Resources section of this initial study, and in Appendix B. Mitiqation: Please refer to Section 6, Biological Resources. Monitorina: Please refer to Section 6, Biological Resources. Less than Significant Potentially with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact - 48. Does the project have the potential to achieve short term environmental goals, to the ❑ ❑ � ❑ disadvantage of long? Source: Staff review, project application. FindinQs of Fact: The proposed project will not achieve short-term environmental goals, to the disadvantage of long- term environmental goals. Wherever possible, long term, thoughtFul solutions have been sought to the environmental issues associated with this project. This is particularly true in regard to using bioswales to control runoff and prevent urban pollutants from migrating offsite. In addition, the County is committed to developing the project with other LEEDS measures including the use of green building materials where feasible and using biological water quality systems such as bioswales. Mitiaation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Less than Potentially Significant with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 49. Does the project have impacts which are ' individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of an individual 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 as defined in California Code of Regulations, Section 15130)? Source: Staff review, project application. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 64 of 67 EA#08250003764 Findinqs of Fact: The project may stimulate residential growth slightly, because the quantity of new jobs resulting from the project is an attractant. However, the impact to population will not be cumulatively significant. The project does not have impacts which are individually limited, but cumulatively considerable. Mitiqation: None required. Monitorinq: None required. Less than Significant Potentially with Less Than Significant Mitigation Significant No Impact Incorporated Impact Impact 50. Does the project have environmental effects which will cause substantial adverse � � � � effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? Source: Staff review, project application. Findinqs of Fact: The proposed project would not result in environmental effects which would cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly. Mitiaation: None required. Monitorina: None required. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 65 of 67 EA#08250003764 VI. REFERENCES Assembly Bill 32, California Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006. www.arb.ca.gov/cc/docs/ab32text.pdf Association of Environmental Professionals (AEP). Association of Environmental Professional: Altemative Approaches to Analyzing Greenhouse Gas Emissions and Global Climate Change in CEQA Documents. Hendrix, M. and C. Wilson of Michael Brandman Associates. June 29, 2007. Accessed online at: www.califaep.orq/content.asp?pid=81 Coachella Valley Resource Conservation District article accessed online at: www.carcd.orq/wisp/coachellavallev/index.htm, citing Coachella Valley on water consumption. CHJ, Inc, Geotechnical lnvestigafion, Proposed Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, Southeast of Shadow Ridge Road and Gerald Ford Drive, Palm Desert, California, Prepared for the County of Riverside, Job No. 07394-3, June 2007. City of Palm Desert website, accessed at: http://www.cityofpalmdesert.org (CUP download), article citing public water consumption City of Palm Desert, Comprehensive General Plan, 2004. City of Palm Desert, Zoning Code, 2004. Coachella Valley Water District website, accessed online at: http://www.cvwd.org/ County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health website. accessed online at: http://www.rivcoeh.org/opencros/index.htm l County of Riverside, General Plan, 2003. County of Riverside Codified Ordinances. Accessed online at: http://ordlink.com/codes/riversideco/index.htm Desert Sands Unified School District, Student Generation Rates. EEI Geotechnical, Phase I Environmental Site Assessment Riverside County Department of Facilities Management, Vacant Property, South of Gerald Ford Drive between Monterey Avenue and Portola Avenue, APN 653-740-001, Palm Desert, Riverside County, California 92211, EEI Project Number COR-70616, August 3, 2007. FEMA Map Service Center. 2007. accessed online at: http://msc.fema.gov/webapp/wcs/stores/servleUFemaWelcomeView?storeld=10001&catalogld=10001 8�langld=-1 HDR Architects, Inc. 2007. Palm Desert Sheriff Station design sheets 100,111,112,121,201,301,C-2, Planting Plan, L-01 and L-02. Michael Brandman Associates, Phase 1 Cultural Resources Assessment and Paleonfological Records Review Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Projecf FM08250003764 Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, September 2007. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 66 of 67 EA#08250003764 Michael Brandman Associates, Habitat Assessment and MSHCP Consistency Analysis Palm Desert Sheriff Sfation, Project FM08250003764, City of Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, September 2007. Michael Brandman Associates Paleontological Resources Assessment Palm Desert Sheriff Station, Project FM08250003764 Palm Desert, Riverside County, California, September 2007. Michael Brandman Associates, Letter Report, Subject: Brief Air Quality Analysis for the Palm Desert Sheriff's Station, February 5 2008. Palm Desert Police Station. 2007. Personal Communication with staff Riverside Counry Land Information System. Accessed online at: http://www3.tlma.co.riverside.ca.us/pa/rclis/viewer.htm Riverside County Waste Management Department website, accessed at: http://www.rivcowm.org/ South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) Califomia Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Air Quality Handbook Tab/e 6-2, Sfate /mplementation Plan for PM,o in fhe Coachella Valley, November 1990. � South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) California Environmental Quality Act - (CEQA)Air Quality Handbook, 1993. '" South Coast Air Qualiry Management District (SCAQMD). Appendix C, Emission Inventory and Risk , Assessment Guidelines for Gasoline Dispensing Stations. Attachments are located at www.aqmd.gov/hb/2007/January/070128a.html, Accessed January 11, 2008. South Coast Air Quality Management District. 2003. Final Localized Significance Threshold � Methodology. Appendix C Localized Significance Threshold Screening Tables 2003-2005. � www.aqmd.gov/ceqa/handbook/LST/LST.html, Accessed January 11, 2008 Thomas Guide 2006 Edition. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, Soil Survey of Riverside County, � Califomia, Coachella Valley Area, 1979. U.S. Department of the Interior, National Register of Hisforic Places Vol. 1 & ll and California Inventory of Historic Resources 1976. �' U.S. Green Building Council website, accessed online at: www.usQbc.orq/LEED/, 2008. Western Coachella Valley Area Plan (WCVAP}, Riverside County, 2003. Accessed online at: http://www.rcip.org/pdf_files/maps_09_24_03/lowres/Fig3_22wcoachel la.pdf VII. EARLIER ANALYSES Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, an effect has been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration - Califomia Code of Regulations, Section 15063 (c) (3) (D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: Earlier Analyses Used, if any: Not Applicable, all references are included in Section VI, References. Palm Desert Sheriff Station Page 67 of 67 EA#08250003764