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CC Resolution 2004-118 EA 2004-511 MND for TTM 31874 & SP 2004-073RESOLUTION NO. 2004-118 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31874 AND SPECIFIC PLAN 2004-073 ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2004-511 STONEFIELD DEVELOPMENT, INC. WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California, did, on the 19' day of October, 2004 hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider the request of Stonefield Development, Inc. for Environmental Assessment 2004-511 prepared for Tentative Tract 31874 and Specific Plan 2004-073, located at the northwest corner of Monroe Street and Avenue 53, more particularly described as: APN 767-200-011 WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta, California did on the 281h day of September, 2004, hold a public hearing to consider this request, and adopted Resolution 2004-070, recommending certification of this Environmental Assessment; and, WHEREAS, the Community Development Department published a public hearing notice in the Desert Sun newspaper on October 9, 2004, as prescribed by the Municipal Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to all property owners within 500 feet of the site; and WHEREAS, 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, findings, and reasons to certification of said Environmental Assessment: 1. The proposed applications will not be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the community, either indirectly, or directly, in that no significant unmitigated impacts were identified by Environmental Assessment 2004-511. Resolution No. 2004-118 Environmental Assessment 2004-511 Stonefield Development, Inc. Adopted: October 19, 2004 Page 2 2. The proposed project will not have the potential to degrade the quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of 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 rare or -endangered plants or animals or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory. Potential impacts associated with cultural and paleontologic resources can be mitigated to a less than significant level. The site does not contain significant biological resources. 3. There is no evidence before the City that the proposed project will have the potential for an adverse effect on wildlife resources or the habitat on which the wildlife depends. The site does not contain significant biological resources. 4. The proposed project does not have the potential to achieve short-term environmental goals, to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals, as the proposed project supports the long term goals of the General Plan by providing a variety of housing opportunities for City residents. No significant effects on environmental factors have been identified by the Environmental Assessment. 5. The proposed project will not result in impacts which are individually limited or cumulatively considerable when considering planned or proposed development in the immediate vicinity, as development patterns in the area will not be significantly affected by the proposed project. The construction of 101 residential units will not have considerable cumulative impacts. The project is consistent with the General Plan, and the potential impacts associated with General Plan buildout. 6. The proposed project will not have environmental effects that will adversely affect the human population, either directly or indirectly. The proposed project has the potential to adversely affect human beings, due to air quality and noise impacts. The Coachella Valley is in a non -attainment area for PM 10, and the site will generate PM 10; however, there are a number of mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts on air quality. Noise impacts have been addressed through a series of mitigation measures, which will lower the potential for significant impacts to less than significant levels. Resolution No. 2004-118 r-- Environmental Assessment 2004-511 Stonefield Development, Inc. Adopted: October 19, 2004 Page 3 7. There is no substantial evidence in light of the entire record that the project may have a significant effect on the environment. 8. The City Council has considered Environmental Assessment 2004-511 and said reflects the independent judgment of the City. 9. The City has on the basis of substantial evidence, rebutted the presumption of adverse effect set forth in 14 CAL Code Regulations 753.5(d). 10. The location and custodian of the City's records relating to this project is the Community Development Department located at 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California. NOW THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California, as follows: 1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of the City Council for this Environmental Assessment. 2. That it does hereby certify Environmental Assessment 2004-511 for the reasons set forth in this Resolution and as stated in the Environmental Assessment Checklist and Mitigation Monitoring Program, attached and on file in the Community Development Department. 3. That Environmental Assessment 2004-511 reflects the independent judgment of the City. PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council held on this 19th day of October, 2004, by the following vote, to wit: AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Adolph NOES: None ABSENT: None ,.__. ABSTAIN: None Resolution No. 2004-118 Environmental Assessment 2004-511 Stonefield Development, Inc. Adopted: October 19, 2004 Page 4 vi,u, LL DON ADO PH, Mayor City of La Quinta, California ATTEST: ��A' Ap J .CREEK, CIVIC, Clerk City of La Quinta, California (City Seal) APPROVED AS TO FORM: .1 14 Q. UT14ERINE JE N, City Attorney City of La Quinta, California 1. 2. 0 4. Environmental Checklist Form (EA 2004-511) Project title: Tentative Tract Map 31874, Specific Plan 2004-073 Lead agency name and address: Contact person and phone number: City of La Quinta 78495 Calle Tampico La Quinta, CA 92253 Stan Sawa 760-777-7125 Project location: Northwest comer of Avenue 53 and Monroe Street. APN: 767-200-001 5. Project sponsor's name and address: Stonefield Development 23333 Avenida de Caza Coto de Caza, CA 92679 6. General plan designation: Low Density Residential, with Agriculture/Equestrian Overlay* 7. Zoning: Low Density/Agricuitural/Equestrian* 8. Description of project: (Describe the whole action involved, including but not limited to later phases of the project, and any secondary, support, or off -site features necessary for its implementation. Attach additional sheets if necessary.) A proposal to subdivide 38.64 acres into 101 single family residential lots, as well as lots for, streets, retention basins, a well site and landscaped parkway. The site is proposed to have access from both Monroe Street and Avenue 53. The minimum lot size is proposed to be 9,600 square feet. Lot size ranges from 9,600 to 21,608, with most lots in the range of approximately 10,000 square feet. The project site is currently in the City's sphere of influenced, and undergoing annexation. 9. Surrounding land uses and setting: Briefly describe the project's surroundings: North: Vacant (Low Density Residential under construction) South: -Vacant (Low Density Residential, Golf Course Open Space) West: Vacant (Low Density Residential, Golf Course Open Space) East: Vacant (Agriculture County) 10. Other public agencies whose approval is required (e.g., permits, financing approval, or participation agreement.) Coachella Valley Water District *The property is currently in unincorporated Riverside County. Pre -annexation General Plan and Zoning designations were assigned to the property during the General Plan Update process, and have been assumed here. -1- ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED: The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated. by the checklist on the following pages. Aesthetics Biological Resources Hazards & Hazardous Materials Mineral Resources Public Services Utilities / Service Systems Agriculture Resources Cultural Resources Hydrology / Water Quality Noise Recreation Air Quality Geology /Soils Land Use / Planning Population / Housing Transportation/Traffic Mandatory Findings of Significance DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this initial evaluation: I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have. a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the X environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared. I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required. I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed. I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. z Signature Date EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:. 1) A brief explanation is required for all answers except "No Impact" answers that are adequately supported by the information sources a lead agency cites in the parentheses following each question. A "No Impact" answer is adequately supported if the referenced information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one involved (e.g., the project falls outside a fault rupture zone). A "No Impact" answer should be explained where it is based on project -specific factors as well as general standards (e.g., the project will not expose sensitive receptors to pollutants, based on a project -specific screening analysis). 2) All answers must take account of the whole action involved, including off -site as well as on -site, cumulative as well as 'project -level, indirect as well as direct, and construction as well as operational impacts. 3) Once the lead agency has determined that a particular physical impact may occur, then the checklist answers must indicate whether the impact is potentially significant, less than significant with mitigation, or less than significant. "Potentially Significant Impact" is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be significant. If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact" entries when the determination is made, an EIR is required. 4) "Negative Declaration: Less Than Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" applies where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from "Potentially Significant Impact" to a "Less Than Significant Impact." The lead agency must describe the mitigation measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant level (mitigation measures from Section XVII, "Earlier Analyses," may be cross-referenced). 5) 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. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case, a brief discussion should identify the following: a) Earlier Analysis Used. Identify and state where they are available for review. b) Impacts Adequately Addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. c) Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Measures Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. 6) Lead agencies are encouraged to incorporate into the checklist references to information sources for potential impacts (e.g., general plans, zoning ordinances). Reference to a previously prepared or outside document should, where appropriate, include a reference to the page or pages where the statement is substantiated. 7) Supporting Information Sources: A source list should be attached, and other sources used or individuals contacted should be cited in the discussion. -3- 8) This is only a suggested form, and lead agencies are free to use different formats; however, lead agencies should normally address the questions from this checklist that are relevant to a project's environmental effects in whatever format is selected. 9) The explanation of each issue should identify: a) the significance criteria or threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and b) the mitigation measure identified, if any, to reduce the impact to less than significance Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact I. AESTHETICS -- Would the project: a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a X scenic vista? (General Plan Exhibit 3.6) b) Substantially damage scenic resources, X including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state scenic highway? (Aerial photograph) c) Substantially degrade the existing X visual character or quality of the site and its surroundings? (Application materials) d) Create a new source of substantial X light or glare which would adversely affect day or nighttime views in the area? (Application materials) I. a)-d) Neither Avenue 53 nor Monroe Street are designated Image Corridors in the General Plan. The proposed subdivision will result in the construction of 101 single family residences on lots of approximately 10,000 square feet. There are no significant aesthetic landmarks in the area. The site is surrounded by properties designated for golf course and residential land uses at similar grades to the proposed project. The City regulates building height for single family homes to one or two stories, which will limit the potential mass associated with the site. The impacts associated with aesthetics are expected to be insignificant. The ultimate construction of single family homes on the site will result in a slight increase in light generation, primarily from car headlights and landscape lighting. The City regulates lighting levels and does not allow lighting to spill over onto adjacent property. Impacts will not be significant. -4- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact II. AGRICULTURE RESOURCES: Would the project: a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique X 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? (General Plan EIR p. III-21 ff.) X b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract? (Zoning Map) c) Involve other changes in the existing X environment which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use? (General Plan Land Use Map) II. a)-c) The proposed project site has been in agriculture, and is currently partially farmed. The property is not under Williamson Act contract. The property is isolated from other farmlands, and is in an area of the. City which is rapidly developing. The loss of 40 acres of partially utilized, isolated farmland is not expected to be significant. -5- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact III. AIR QUALITY: Would the project: a) Conflict with or obstruct X implementation of the applicable air quality plan? (SCAQMD CEQA Handbook) b) Violate any air quality standard or X contribute substantially to an existing or projected air quality violation? (SCAQMD CEQA'Handbook) c) Result in a cumulatively considerable X 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)? (SCAQMD CEQA Handbook, 2002 PM 10 Plan for the Coachella Valley) d) Expose sensitive receptors to X substantial pollutant concentrations? (Project Description, Aerial Photo, site inspection) e) Create objectionable odors affecting a X substantial number of people? (Project Description, Aerial Photo, site inspection) III. a), b) & c) The proposed project would result in 101 single family residential units on the site. These units are likely to generate approximately 1,055 vehicle trips per day'. Since automobile emissions are the largest contributor to air quality issues in the region, these vehicle trips will be the most significant generators of air pollutants as a result of the project. Based on this traffic generation, and an average trip length of 10 miles, the following emissions can be expected to be generated from the project site. "Trip Generation, 6t' Edition," Institute of Transportation Engineers, category 210. Single Family Residential, detached. -6- Moving Exhaust Emission Projections at Project Buildout (Dounds Der dav) Ave. Trip Total Total No. Vehicle Trips/Day Length (miles) miles/day 1,055 x 10 = 10,550 PM10 PM10 PM10 Pollutant ROC CO NOX Exhaust Tire Wear Brake Wear Grams at 50 mph 949.50 243,687.00 53,064.00 - 105.50 105.50 Pounds at 50 mph 2.10 54.50 11.18 - 0.23 0.23 SCAQMD Threshold (lbs./day) 75 550 100 150 Assumes 1,055 ADT. Based on California Air Resources Board's EMFAC7G Emissions Model. Assumes Year 2005 summertime running conditions at 75 °F, light duty autos, catalytic. As demonstrated above, the proposed project will not exceed any of SCAQMD's recommended daily thresholds. The project's potential impacts to air quality resulting from vehicular emissions are therefore expected to be less than significant. The City and Coachella Valley are a severe non -attainment area for PM 10 (Particulates of 10 microns or less). The Valley's 2002 PM10 Plan adopted much stricter measures for the control of dust both during the construction process and during project operations. These include the following, to be included in conditions of approval for the proposed project: CONTROL MEASURE TITLE & CONTROL METHOD BCM-1 Further Control of Emissions from Construction Activities: Watering, chemical stabilization, wind fencing, revegetation, track -out control BCM-2 Disturbed Vacant Lands: Chemical stabilization, wind fencing, access restriction, revegetation BCM-3 Unpaved Roads and Unpaved Parking Lots: Paving, chemical stabilization, access restriction, revegetation BCM-4 Paved Road Dust: Minimal track -out, stabilization of unpaved road shoulders, clean streets maintenance The proposed project will generate dust during construction. Under mass grading conditions, this could result in the generation of 972.6 pounds per day, for a limited period while grading operations are active, assuming that the site will be mass graded, If the site is graded in sections, impacts are expected to be lower. The contractor will be required to submit a PM10 Management Plan prior to initiation of any earth moving activity. In addition, the potential impacts associated with PM 10 can be mitigated by the measures below. 1. Construction equipment shall be properly maintained and serviced to minimize exhaust emissions. -7- 2. Existing power sources should be utilized where feasible via temporary power poles to avoid on -site power generation. 3. Construction personnel shall be informed of ride sharing and transit opportunities. 4. Imported fill shall be adequately watered prior to transport, covered during transport, and watered prior to unloading on the project site. 5. Any -portion of the site to be graded shall be pre -watered to a depth of three feet prior to the onset of grading activities. 6. Watering of the site or other soil stabilization method shall be employed on an on- going basis after the initiation of any grading activity on the site. Portions of the site that are actively being graded shall be watered regularly to ensure that a crust is formed on the ground surface, and shall be watered at the end of each work day. 7. Any area which remains undeveloped for a period of more than 30 days shall be stabilized using either chemical stabilizers or a desert wildflower mix hydroseed on the affected portion of the site. 8. Landscaped areas shall be installed as soon as possible to reduce the potential for wind erosion. Landscape parkways on Monroe Street and Avenue 53 shall be installed with the first phase of development on the site, as shall the project's perimeter wall. 9. SCAQMD Rule 403 shall be adhered to, insuring the clean-up of construction - related dirt on approach routes to the site. 10. All grading activities shall be suspended during first and second stage ozone episodes or when winds exceed 25 miles per hour Implementation of these mitigation measures will ensure that impacts associated with PM 10 are mitigated to a less than significant level. III. d) & e) The project will consist of residential units and will not result in objectionable odors, nor will it expose residents to concentrations of pollutants. -8- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact IV. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES -- Would the project; a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either X directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Game or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? ("General Biological Resources Assessment..." Natural Resources Assessment, Inc. May 2004) b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any X riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Game or US Fish and Wildlife Service? ("General Biological Resources Assessment..." Natural Resources Assessment, Inc. May 2004) c) Have a substantial adverse effect on X federally protected wetlands as defined by Section 404 of the Clean Water Act (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? ("General Biological Resources Assessment..." Natural Resources Assessment, Inc. May 2004) d) Interfere substantially with the X movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? ("General Biological Resources Assessment..." Natural Resources Assessment, Inc. May 2004) e) Conflict with any local policies or X ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? ("General Biological Resources =9- Assessment..." Natural Resources Assessment, Inc. May 2004) f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, X Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? (General Plan Exhibit 6.3) IV. a)-f) A biological resource study was prepared for the proposed project site 2. The study included a records search as well as on -site investigation. The on site investigation included particular focus on identifying burrowing owl on the site, as well as sensitive plants. A protocol survey for burrowing owl was not completed. The study concluded that the site's long term use as farm land, and its isolated nature in regards to natural habitat make it of poor value for native species habitat. The study did not identify burrowing owl on the property, and identified only common species throughout. Because of the site's use as farm land, impacts to biological resources are expected to be negligible. 2 "General Biological Resources Assessment Stonefield 40 Acres," prepared by Natural Resources Assessment, Inc., May 2004. -10- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact V. CULTURAL RESOURCES -- Would the project: a) Cause a substantial adverse change in X the significance of a historical resource as defined in ' 15064.5? ("Phase I Cultural Resources Investigation...," Keith Companies, June 2004) b) Cause a substantial adverse change in X the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to ' 15064.5? ("Phase I Cultural Resources Investigation...," Keith Companies, June 2004) c) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique X paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? ("Paleontologic Assessment..." San Bernardino County Museum, February 2004) d) Disturb any human remains, including X those interred outside of formal cemeteries? "Phase I Cultural Resources Investigation...," Keith Companies, June 2004) V. a)-b) & d) A cultural resource survey and associated report were prepared for the project site3. The survey found one isolate on the property, as well as one circa 1925 shotshell. These finds are considered indicative of the potential for sub -surface artifacts. Therefore, the report recommends the imposition of the following mitigation measure: 1. A qualified archaeological monitor shall be present during all earth moving and grading activities. The monitor shall be empowered to stop or redirect activities on the site should a resource be identified. A final report shall be filed with the Community Development Department prior to issuance of a certificate of occupancy for the first house on the project site. Monitors shall include a Native American monitor. Proof of retention of monitors shall be given to the Community Development and Public Works Departments prior to issuance of first earth -moving or clearing permit. 2. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Community Development Department prior to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy for the project. 3. Collected archaeological resources shall be properly packaged for long term curation, in polyethylene self -seal bags, vials, or film cans as .appropriate, all within acid -free, "Phase I Cultural Resources Investigation of 40 Acres......," prepared by the Keith Companies, June 2004. -11- standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and delivered to the City prior to issuance of first Certificate of Occupancy for the property. Materials shall be accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research data, and the original graphics. The project contractor is required by state law to report a finding of human remains. _ should such a find be made during project grading. Law enforcement officials are responsible for the proper investigation and disposal of remains. V. c) A paleontologic survey was prepared for the proposed project site 4. The study found that the project site is within the historic lake bed of ancient Lake Cahuilla. The study further found both mollusk shells and undated bone fragments which may or may not be fossils.. Development of the site could result in significant impacts to paleontologic resources without mitigation. In order to assure that these potential impacts are mitigated to a less than significant level, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented. 1. A paleontologist shall be present on site during all earth moving and trenching activities in areas of undisturbed lakebed soils. The paleontologist shall be empowered to stop or redirect earth moving activities to adequately investigate potential resources. The paleontologist shall be required to submit to the Community Development Department, for review and approval, a written report on all activities on the site prior to occupancy .of the first building on the site. 2. Proof of retention of monitors shall be given to City prior to issuance of first earth - moving or clearing permit. 3. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Community Development Department prior to the issuance of the first production home building permit for the project. 4. Collected paleontological resources shall be properly packaged for long term curation, in polyethylene self -seal bags, vials, or film cans as appropriate, all within acid -free, standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and delivered to the City prior to issuance of first building permit for the property. Materials will be accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research data, and the original graphics. 4 "Paleontological Assessment Stonefield Development," prepared by the San Bernardino Museum, February 2004. -12- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact VI. GEOLOGY AND SOILS -- Would the project: a) Expose people or structures to potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving: i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, X as delineated on the most recent Alquist- Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault? (MEA Exhibit 6.2) ii) Strong seismic ground shaking? (MEA X Exhibit 6.2) iii) Seismic -related ground failure, X including liquefaction? (MEA Exhibit 6.3) iv) Landslides? (MEA Exhibit 6.4) X b) Result in substantial soil erosion or X the loss of topsoil? (MEA Exhibit 6.5) d) Be located on expansive soil, as X defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building. Code (1994), creating substantial risks to life or property (MEA Exhibit 6.1) e) Have soils incapable of adequately X supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative waste water disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of waste water? (General Plan Exhibit 8.1) VI. a)-e) The project site lies in a Zone IV groundshaking zone. The property, as with the rest of the City, will be subject to significant ground movement in the event of a major earthquake. Structures on the site will be required to meet the City's and the State's standards for construction, which include Uniform Building Code requirements for seismic zones. The City Engineer will require the preparation of site -specific geotechnical -13- analysis in conjunction with the submittal of grading plans. This requirement will ensure that impacts from ground shaking are reduced to a less than significant level. The site is located in an area having a potential for liquefaction hazards. In order to assure that liquefaction issues are mitigated to a less than significant level, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented: 1. Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the applicant shall submit, for review and approval by the City Engineer, a liquefaction study which determines the depth to groundwater at the project site, and recommends any special construction techniques to assure that structures on the site will be protected in a seismic event. Portions of the project site are located in an area of very severe blow sand potential. The mitigation measures included above under air quality are designed to mitigate the potential impacts associated with blow sand at the project site to a less than significant level. The site is not subject to landslides, nor does it have expansive soils. The proposed project will be required to connect to the CVWD sanitary sewer system, and septic tanks will not be installed. With implementation of the above mitigation measure, impacts associated with soils and geology are expected to be less than significant. .14- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact VII. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS --Would theproject: a) Create a significant hazard to the X public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? (Application materials) b) Create a significant hazard to the X public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? ("Report of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment..." Earth Systems Southwest, Jan. 2004) c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle X hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one -quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? ("Report of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment..." Earth Systems Southwest, Jan. 2004) d) Be located on a site which is included X 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? ("Report of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment..." Earth Systems Southwest, Jan. 2004) e) For a project located within an airport X 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? (General Plan land use map) f) For a project within the vicinity of a X private airstrip, would the project result in a safety hazard for people residing or working in the project area? (General Plan -15- land use map) g) Impair implementation of or X physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? (General Plan MEA p. 95 ff) h) Expose people or structures to a X 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? (General Plan land use map) VII. a)-h) The construction of 101 residential units on the proposed project site will not result in significant impacts associated with hazardous materials. The City implements the standards of Household Hazardous Waste programs through its waste provider. These regulations and standards ensure that impacts to surrounding areas, or within the project itself, are less than significant. The site is not in an area subject to wildland fires. The site's use as farm land has been analysed in a Phase I Environmental Assessments. Recommendations have been made in that study regarding a storage area which may require further study. Since the potential impacts associated with this storage area are not known, the following mitigation measure shall be implemented to reduce the potential impacts to a less than significant level. 1. Prior to issuance of grading permits, a Phase II investigation of the storage areas for prior pesticide use and potential spillage shall be completed, and any clean up required, if necessary, shall be completed. 5 "Report of Phase I Environmental Site Assessment..." prepared by Earth Systems Southwest, January, 2004. -16- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact VIII. HYDROLOGY AND WATER UALITY -- Would the project: a) Violate any water quality standards or X waste discharge requirements? (General Plan EIR p. III-187 ff.) b) Substantially deplete groundwater X 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)? (General Plan EIR p. III-187 ff. c) Substantially alter the existing X drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off -site? ("Preliminary Hydrology..." TKC, June 2004) d) Substantially alter the existing X drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river, or substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in flooding on- or off -site? ("Preliminary Hydrology..." TKC, June 2004) e) Create or contribute runoff water X which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff? ("Preliminary Hydrology..."TKC, June 2004) f) Place housing within a I00-year flood X -17- hazard area as mapped on a federal Flood Hazard Boundary or Flood Insurance Rate Map or other flood hazard delineation map? (General Plan EIR p. III-87 ff.) g) Place within a 100-year flood hazard X area structures which would impede or redirect flood flows? (Master Environmental Assessment Exhibit 6.6) VIII. a) & b) Domestic water ,is supplied to the project site by the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). The development of the site will result in the need for domestic water service for residential units, both for domestic water and landscaping irrigation. The CVWD has prepared a Water Management Plan which indicates that it has sufficient water sources to accommodate growth in its service area. The CVWD has implemented or is implementing water conservation, purchase and replenishment measures which will result in a surplus of water in the long term. The project proponent will be required to implement the City's water efficient landscaping and construction provisions, including requirements for water efficient fixtures and appliances, which will ensure that the least amount of water is utilized within the homes. The applicant will also be required to comply with the City's NPDES standards, requiring that potential pollutants not be allowed to enter surface waters. These City standards will assure that impacts to water quality and quantity will be less than significant. VIII. c) & d) The City requires that all projects retain the 100 year storm on site. In order to achieve this requirement, a preliminary hydrology study was completed 6. The study analyzed the potential storm flows resulting from a 100 year storm, and the required capacity of the retention basin to accommodate those volumes. The study found that a retention basin capable of containing 3.16 acre feet was required. The retention basins within the project (shown as lots R & Q on the map) has been sized to accommodate this volume, with Lot Q as the primary area, and Lot R acting as additional capacity. The City Engineer will review the final hydrology study for the proposed project, and approve its findings prior to recordation of the map. Impacts associated with storm water drainage are therefore not expected to be significant. VIII. e)-g) The site is not located in a flood zone as designated by FEMA. 6 "Preliminary Hydrology & Hydraulics Report," prepared by the Keith Companies, June 2004. -18- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact IX. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would the project: a) Physically divide an established X community? (Aerial photo) b) Conflict with any applicable land use X plan, policy, or regulation of an agency with jurisdiction over the project (including, but not limited to the general plan, specific plan, local coastal program, or zoning ordinance) adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? (General Plan Land Use Element) c) Conflict with any applicable habitat X conservation plan or natural community conservation plan? (Master Environmental Assessment p. 74 ff.) IX. a)-c) The project site is currently in agriculture, and will not impact any existing community. The proposed project is consistent with the General Plan designation for the property, and will result in a total of 101 single family homes. This type of development is consistent with surrounding existing and approved development. No impacts are expected as a result of project implementation. The project site is outside the boundary of the mitigation fee for the Coachella Valley Fringe -toed Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. -19- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact X. MINERAL RESOURCES -- Would the project: a) Result in the loss of availability of a X known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state? (Master Environmental Assessment p. 71 ff.) b) Result in the loss of availability of a X locally -important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? (Master Environmental Assessment p. 71 ff.) X. a) & b) The proposed project site is within the MRZ-1 Zone, and is therefore not considered to have potential for mineral resources. -20- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XI. NOISE Would the project result in: a) Exposure of persons to or generation X of noise levels in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? ("Preliminary Noise Study," Urban Crossroads, April 2004) b) Exposure of persons to or generation X of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels? ("Preliminary Noise Study," Urban Crossroads, April 2004) c) A substantial permanent increase in X ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ("Preliminary Noise Study," Urban Crossroads, April 2004) d) A substantial temporary or periodic X increase in ambient noise levels in the project vicinity above levels existing without the project? ("Preliminary Noise Study," Urban Crossroads, April 2004) e) For a project located within an airport X 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? (General Plan land use map) f) For a project within the vicinity of a X private airstrip, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels? (General Plan land use map) XI. a)-f) A noise study was prepared for the proposed project. The study found that noise levels for lots on Avenue 53 are expected to remain below the City's standard of 65 dBA 7 "40 Acre Residential Development Preliminary Noise Study," prepared by Urban Crossroads, April, 2004. -21- CNEL. However, noise levels for lots on Monroe Street, without mitigation, will reach 69.7 dBA CNEL, which exceeds the City's standards. The study also analyzed the potential well site (shown as Lot P on the Tract Map), and the noise generation potential from equipment on that site. The study found that with mitigation, potential impacts associated with noise from the well site could be mitigated to less than significant levels. The study also considered the potential impacts to second story construction from roadway noise on Monroe and Avenue 53. Noise levels are expected to reach between 62.6 and 69.2 dBA CNEL without mitigation. Although the building construction itself can provide from 12 to 20 dBA CNEL noise attenuation, the potential second stories of homes on Monroe and Avenue 53 could still exceed the City's 45 dBA CNEL interior noise standard without the provision of a mechanical ventilation system, to allow a "windows closed" condition. In order to assure that the potential impacts associated with noise at the project site are reduced to a less than significant level, the study recommends the implementation of the following mitigation measures: 1. A 6 foot high wall shall be constructed, at a minimum, along the northern property line of lot 13, the eastern property lines of lots 4 through 12, the southern property line of lot 8, the northern property line of lot 7, the southern property line of lot 4, and the eastern property line of lot 3. The wall shall be of solid construction, in block or similar material, with no breaks or openings. 2. All second story units located along Avenue 53 and Monroe shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation system (air conditioning). 3. A final noise study shall be submitted with building permits for the proposed project. Noise will also be generated from the project site during construction. Lands surrounding the property, however, are currently vacant, and planned for a golf course community. Should this community be built before the proposed project, it will include the construction of a wall, which should provide sufficient attenuation of the temporary noise impacts associated with construction of the proposed project. With implementation of the mitigation measures above, impacts associated with noise shall be reduced to less than significant levels. The proposed project site is not located within the vicinity of an air strip or airport. -22- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XII. POPULATION AND HOUSING — Would the project: a) Induce substantial population growth X in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? (General Plan, p. 9 ff., application materials) b) Displace substantial numbers of X existing housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (General Plan, p. 9 ff., application materials) c) Displace substantial numbers of X people, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? (General Plan, p. 9 ff., application materials) XII. a)-c) The construction of 101 residential units will not generate growth in the City, but will. rather accommodate growth pressures caused by commercial and other types of projects in the area. -23- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XIII. PUBLIC SERVICES a) Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: Fire protection? (General Plan MEA, p. 57) X Police protection? (General Plan MEA, p. 57) X Schools? (General Plan MEA, p. 52 ff.) X Parks? (General Plan; Recreation and Parks X Master Plan) Other public facilities? (General Plan MEA, X p. 46 ff.) XIII. a) Buildout of the site will have a less than significant impact on public services. The proposed project will be served by the County Sheriff and Fire Department, under City contract. Buildout of the proposed project will generate sales and property tax which will offset the costs of added police and fire services, as well as the costs of general government. The project will be required to pay the mandated school fees and park in lieu fees in place at the time of issuance of building permits to reduce the impacts to those services. -24- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XIV. RECREATION -- a) Would the project increase the use of X existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? (Application materials) b) Does the project include recreational X facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? (Application materials) XIV. a) & b) The proposed project includes interior open space areas which will be available to residents for recreational purposes (lots R and Q, proposed for retention basins). In addition, park in lieu fees will be collected to address the project's impacts on the City's recreational facilities. &.411 Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XV. TRANSPORTATION/TRAFFIC -- Would the project: a) Cause an increase in traffic which is X substantial in relation to the existing traffic load and capacity of the street system (i.e., result in a substantial increase in either the number of vehicle trips, the volume to capacity ratio on roads, or congestion at intersections)? (General Plan EIR, p. III-29 ff.) b) Exceed, either individually or X cumulatively, a level of service standard established by the county congestion management agency for designated roads or highways? (General Plan EIR, p. III-29 ff.) c) Result in a change in air traffic X patterns, including either an increase in traffic levels or a change in location that results in substantial safety risks? (No air traffic involved in project) d) Substantially increase hazards due to a X design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? (Tentative Tract Map 31874) e) Result in inadequate emergency X access? (Tentative Tract Map 31874) f) Result in inadequate parking capacity? X (Tentative Tract Map 31874) g) Conflict with adopted policies, plans, X or programs supporting alternative transportation (e.g., bus turnouts, bicycle racks)? (Project description) XV. a)-g) The project site has the potential to generate 1,055 average daily trips. The proposed project is consistent with the General Plan and Zoning designations placed on the property by the City. The General Plan EIR included lands in the City's sphere in its -26- analysis, and found that both Monroe and Avenue 53 would operate at acceptable levels at General Plan buildout. The proposed project, therefore, will have less than significant impacts on traffic and circulation in the area. The project does not include inadequate parking or unsafe designs. The site is located within the service area of SunLine Transit, and Gan be served by it. Overall impacts to, traffic are expected to be less than significant. -27- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XVI. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS. Would the project: a) Exceed wastewater treatment X requirements of the applicable Regional Water Quality Control Board? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) b) Require or result in the construction of X new water or wastewater treatment facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) c) Require or result in the construction of X new storm water drainage facilities or expansion of existing facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental effects? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) d) Have sufficient water supplies X available to serve the project from existing entitlements and resources, or are new or expanded entitlements needed? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) e) Result in a determination by the X wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project=s projected demand in addition to the provider=s existing commitments? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) f) Be served by a landfill with sufficient X permitted capacity to accommodate the project=s solid waste disposal needs? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) g) Comply with federal, state, and local X statutes and regulations related to solid waste? (General Plan MEA, p. 58 ff.) -28- XVI. a)-g) Utilities are available at the project site. The service providers for water, sewer, electricity and other utilities have facilities in the immediate vicinity of the site, and will collect connection and usage fees to balance for the cost of providing services. The construction of the proposed project is expected to have less than significant impacts on utility providers. -29- Potentially Less Than Less Than No Significant Significant w/ Significant Impact Impact Mitigation Impact XVII. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE -- a) Does the project have the potential to X 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 or eliminate important examples of the major periods of California history or prehistory? b) Does the project have the potential to X achieve short-term, to the disadvantage of long-term environmental goals? b) Does the project have impacts that are X individually limited, but cumulatively considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means that the incremental effects of a project are considerable when viewed in connection with the effects of past projects, the effects of other current projects, and the effects of probable future projects)? c) Does the project have environmental X effects which will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings, either directly or indirectly? XVII. a) Potential impacts associated with cultural and paleontologic resources can be mitigated to a less than significant level. The site does not contain significant biological resources. XVII. b) The proposed project supports the long term goals of the General Plan by providing a variety of housing opportunities for City residents. XVII. c) The construction of 101 residential units will not have considerable cumulative impacts. The project is consistent with the General Plan, and the potential impacts associated with General Plan buildout. -30- XVH. d) The proposed project has the potential to adversely affect human beings, due to air quality and noise impacts. Since the Coachella Valley is in a non -attainment area for PM 10, and the site will generate PM 10, Section III), above, includes a number of mitigation measures to reduce the potential impacts on air quality. Noise impacts have been addressed through a series of mitigation measures, which will lower the potential . for significant impacts to less than significant levels. XVIII. EARLIER ANALYSES. .Earlier analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering, program EIR, or other CEQA process, one or more effects have been adequately analyzed in an earlier EIR or negative declaration. Section 15063(c)(3)(D). In this case a discussion should identify the following on attached sheets: a) Earlier analyses used. Identify earlier analyses and state where they are available for review. Not applicable. b) Impacts adequately addressed. Identify which effects from the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and state whether such effects were addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis. Not applicable. c) Mitigation - measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant with Mitigation Incorporated," describe the mitigation measures which were incorporated or refined from the earlier document and the extent to which they address site -specific conditions for the project. 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