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2004 06 17 HPCHISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION hl OF AG EN ®A The Regular Meeting to be held in the Session Room at the La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California JUNE 17, 2004 3:00 P.M. Beginning Minute Motion 2004-012 CALL TO ORDER A. Pledge of Allegiance B. Roll Call II. PUBLIC COMMENT This is the time set aside for citizens to address the Historic Preservation Commission on matters relating to historic resources within the City of La Quinta which are not Agenda items. When addressing the Historic Preservation Commission, please state your name and address and when discussing matters pertaining to prehistoric sites, do not disclose the exact location of the site(s) for their protection. III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: A. Approval of the Minutes for the meeting of May 20, 2004 win 0 1 19W1,011*&yrr:M&i A. Phase I Cultural Resources Survev for the La Quinta Family Apartments and Phase I Paleontological Survey for the La Quinta Family Apartments; Applicant: UHC La Quinta LP Archaeological Consultant: TRC Companies (Greig Parker, RPA) Location: East of Dune Palms Road, approximately 650 feet south of Highway 111. B. Paleontological Resources Assessment for Tentative Tract 32201; Applicant: Choice enterprise Archaeological Consultant: CRM Tech (Harry Quinn) Location: Northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 60. C. Historical/Archaeological Resources and Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-011; Applicant: DUC Housing Partners Archaeological/Paleontological Consultant: CRM Tech Location: North side of Avenue 58, approximately one-half mile west of Madison Street. VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS: A. Discussion of establishing dates for training VIII. ADJOURNMENT . oU2 MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING A Regular meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall Session Room 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA May 20, 2004 This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Chairperson Leslie Mouriquand at 3:03 p.m. who led the flag salute and asked for the roll call. CALL TO ORDER A. Pledge of Allegiance. B. Roll Call. Present: Commissioners Puente, Sharp, Wilbur, and Chairperson Mouriquand Absent: It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Puente and Wilbur to excuse Commissioner Wright. Unanimously approved. Staff Present: Planning Manager Oscar Orci, Principal Planner Stan Sawa, Associate Planner Martin Magana, and Secretary Carolyn Walker. II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: None IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: A. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Puente and Wilbur to approve minutes of the April 22, 2004, Historic Preservation Commission as submitted. Unanimously approved. V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Tentative Tract Map 32072 Applicant: RJT Homes Archaeological Consultant: CRM TECH Location: Southeast corner of Jefferson Street and Avenue 52 P:\CAROLYMHist Pres Com\HPC 5-20-04.doc t I U 3 Last printed 6/11 /04 11 :52 AM Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on fill; in the Community Development Department. 2. Commissioner Wilbur commented on the first condition regarding earth -moving and grading. He asked if that meant the relocation of a large quantity of earth. Staff replied the condition refers to any type of earth moving or clearing of vegetation, and trenching. 3. Commissioner Sharp commented the Commission was aware this is a sensitive area and was in favor of an archaeologist monitoring the site. 4. Commissioner Puente and Chairperson Mouriquand agreed with staff's recommendations. 5. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Puente and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-007 accepting the Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Tentative Tract Map 32072, Assessors Parcel Numbers 772-410-021 and 022, in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, subject to conditions. Unanimously approved. B. Archaeological and Paleontological Survey Report on Tract 31852 Applicant: Ehline Company Archaeological Consultant: L & L Environmental, Inc. Location: Northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 52 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Commissioner Sharp asked what a lacustrine adaptation was. Chairperson Mouriquand replied it referred to a lake environment. Commissioner Sharp said he thought this was a very interesting report, full of history and cultural background. 004 2 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 3. Commissioner Puente asked who appointed the archaeological monitor. Chairperson Mouriquand replied the applicant is required to contract with someone who is on the County List for professional monitoring. When tribal monitoring is required, the tribe appoints someone who is qualified. Staff added the applicant has to provide the City with evidence of the monitor's qualifications. 4. Commissioner Puente commented on the amount of artifacts collected and wanted to know where they were being stored. Staff replied artifact storage was an item that needed to be discussed. New laws are now in effect regarding how cities can collect and store resources. There will have to be discussion on whether the artifacts can be stored locally. 5. Commissioner Wilbur asked if there was any response from the Native Americans. Staff replied they contacted the Cabazon Band of Mission Indians and the Native American Heritage Commission. They received no comments back. 6. Chairperson Mouriquand commented on the fact that Archeological and Paleontological Resources Reports require two different disciplines with different criteria. When they are combined in one report, it becomes difficult to read and can create a problem if something of significance is found requiring detailed discussion. She had additional comments on the archaeology portion but chose to include them in the upcoming conference call with the archaeologist. She added the report needed to relate the history, activities, and the project site in order to determine the significance and eligibility for both the State and National Registers. She found the report lacking and incomplete. 7. Project Archaeologist, Kristie R. Blevins, was unable to attend the meeting and was introduced, via a conference call, to answer any questions the Commissioners had. 00'. 3 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 8. Chairperson Mouriquand asked Ms. Blevins about her comments on past ranching and agricultural activities and how she had arrived at her conclusions. Ms. Blevins replied there were remnants of what appeared to be ranching activities, including a cactus garden and various animal pens. Chairperson Mouriquand asked Ms. Blevins what these things dated to. Ms. Blevins replied they are modern. 9. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if a records search had been done, through the General Land Office (GLO), searching for homesteading and other types of land granting activities on the property. Ms. Blevins replied it had not. She did the records search through the historical map and properties available at the Eastern Information Center. 10. Chairperson Mouriquand said she did not find any general contextual discussion on the local history in the report and the whole historic period was not considered in the report. Ms. Blevins replied they focused more on the prehistoric period because of the prehistoric pottery found on the property. Chairperson Mouriquand commented this was supposed to be a Cultural Resources Investigation and should have included not only the prehistory, but the historic period. Ms. Blevins replied that was correct. 11. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if the Torres Martinez or Augustine Band of Indians had been contacted as pant of the project scoping and consultation effort. Ms. Blevins replied she thought a letter had been sent to the Cahuilla Band. Chairperson Mouriquand said the Cahuilla Band is located in the Anza Valley and a Scoping Letter should have gone to the Cabazon Band. Ms. Blevins replied she was not familiar with this part of the report. She believed her associates had made contact with Rob Wood of the Native American (Heritage Commission to find out who and where to make contact. She didn't personally speak to Rob Wood so she didn't know what went on with that particular conversation, but could find out. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if they sent a request: to the Native American Heritage Commission for a sacred land search. Ms. Blevins replied she thought it was done over the phone and not in a formal letter. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested she 06�; 0 4 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 might want to put it in writing to the Native American Heritage Commission. They could then respond, in writing, with comments and an attached list identifying the appropriate Bands to consult. 12. Chairperson Mouriquand stated the Commission needed to have the RPA (Registered Professional Archaeologist) sign and certify the report. Ms. Blevins replied the signatory, Leslie Nay Irish, is the Principal. Chairperson Mouriquand stated Ms. Irish was not a qualified Archaeologist, according to the Secretary of the Interior's Standards. The report has to be signed by sornebody who is duly qualified to certify these kinds of reports, as well as certification by the Paleontologist. Ms. Blevins replied it would be done. 13. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested the report be handed back to the Consultant for completion and correction and resubmitted for review at the next Commission meeting. Ms. Blevins was told staff would be sending a letter, with comments, on the reports for her revision. 14. Staff restated the following items needed to be addressed: a) A General Land Office records search for any homesteaded properties. b) Discussion of local history and the historic and prehistoric period context. c) Discussion of the local archaeology and how the site relates to it. d) Correct the Native American reference from the Cahuilla Band of Mission Indians to the Cabazon Band. Provide Scoping Letters to the Cabazon, Torres Martinez and Augustine Indian Bands. Provide written responses and include in Appendix. CO7 5 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 e) There was mention of a prickly pear cactus garden, and discussion of how the past activities on the property were associated with ranching and agriculture. Provide clarification of the nature of the ranching, or the agriculture, and whether they were historic activities. f) There were generalized discussions on the different paleontology, Indian sections, archaeology, but the conclusions were not complete on identification and how the project relates to the site area. g) Supply source references of historical maps used. h) All reports listed on the reference list. 15. Ms. Blevins asked how soon they could expect the comments back. Staff replied as soon as the minutes could be done they would transmit the letter with general comments, and suggestions including the excerpts from the minutes. 16. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilbur and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-008 to return the Phase I Archaeological and Paleontological Survey Report on Tract 31852 to L & L Environmental for completion, with revisions as stated above, for the Commission's review at a future meeting. Unanimously approved. C. Phase I Archaeological Survey Report for Tentative Tract Map 31087 Applicant: Tahiti Partners Archaeological Consultant: L & L Environmental, Inc. Location: South side of Darby Road, east of Washington Street 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Commissioner Sharp commented this was a heavily developed area. 1103 G Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 3. Commissioner Puente asked when a Phase II was required. Chairperson Mouriquand explained the Phase II was required when there was something found requiring additional efforts to determine its significance. Also, when the monitor has evidence there may be subsurface artifacts. Subsurface testing may be needed to decide how to craft the mitigation or preservation treatment. 4. Commissioner Puente said in one of the recommendations mentioned under 5.3.1) Archaeology Recommendations (1), Page 16 of the report, there was a request to develop a mitigation plan. Did this mean the archaeologist was anticipating they would be likely to find something? 5. Chairperson Mouriquand replied that was standard language used in the industry. This phrasing allows for justification of monitoring if something is found. If monitoring is recommended, the monitor works with the client and their grading schedule to design an appropriate level of mitigation and monitoring. Some projects don't warrant a full-time monitor. Sometimes the focus is in a certain area. Sometimes you do spot checks to customize the monitoring program to fit the needs of the project. That would be what they were discussing in this report. Staff replied that was right. Ms. Mouriquand added this project would require a lower level of monitoring effort than required for a village site. 6. Commissioner Wilbur commented the surrounding area seems to have some considerable sites and it would be particularly unique if this site had nothing. 7. Chairperson Mouriquand replied from all the past research, and surveys in that area, it is a highly sensitive area. The parcel may be surrounded by development, but that does not mean there might not be something subsurface on the property. She concurred that monitoring would be appropriate even though nothing was found at the Phase I level. You have to consider what the probability is of something being found on the site. rl 009 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 8. Chairperson Mouriquand made the following comments to Report Archaeologist, Ms. Kristie Blevins: a) A General Land Office (GLO) records search needed to be done for any homestead or land grant historic activities on the property. b) A discussion was needed of the local history as part of the cultural resources investigation procedure. c) Scoping letters to the Cabazon, Torres Martinez and Augustine Indian Bands should be provided. d) There were references to past ranching and agricultural activities. An explanation should be provided of what evidence was on the property for consideration of past ranching and agricultural activities. 9. Chairperson Mouriquand asked about the report comment saying most of the study area had been developed. Was this referring to the radius or the project itself? Ms. Blevins replied it referred to the radius. 10. Chairperson Mouriquand continued the Cultural Context discussion on the Paleo-Indian Period, the Archaic Period, and the Late Prehistoric Period needed to be more relevant to the local area, to create the local, cultural context. The Late Prehistoric discussion was very short. It referenced the Luiseho, and the generalized San Luis Rey complex, but it didn't discuss Cahuilla, late prehistory archaeology and culture at all. It didn't discuss prehistory at all or tie it into the Cahuilla or local tribes. There was mention of Luiseno and San Luis complex, which is considered regional, but there is no discussion of the local area. 11. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if there was a source of references for the historical maps. Ms. Blevins replied the historic maps would have been from the Eastern Information Center (EIC). 12. Chairperson Mouriquand said there was discussion about Federal Laws. Was this because there was Federal involvement in this project, or is this a CEQA project. Staff replied this was a CEQA project. 010 8 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 13. Chairperson Mouriquand had some additional comments centered on the historic period and explanation of the ranching that was identified as being associated with the parcel. She suggested, rather than going over each item, staff could provide Ms. Blevins with a commentary to assist her in revising the report. Ms. Blevins replied that would be very helpful. 14. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Sharp and Puente to adopt Minute Motion 2004-009 to return the Phase I Archaeology Survey Report for Tentative Tract Map 31087, to L & L Environmental for completion, with revisions as stated above, for the Commission for review at a future meeting. Unanimously approved. D. Interim Phase II Cultural Archaeological Test Program for Tentative Tract Map 32201 Applicant: Choice Enterprise Archaeological Consultant: Archaeological Advisory Group Location: Northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 60 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Commissioner Sharp asked if the tamarisks had been taken out. The applicant's representative, Dave Saccullo, 74-923 Highway 1 1 1, Suite 114, Indian Wells, California, introduced himself and replied the tamarisks had not been taken out. He had been notified he needed a Paleontology Report which was currently being done by Mike Hogan of CRM TECH, and should be available by June 1, 2004. Mr. Saccullo asked if he had the Paleontologist submit a letter verifying there have been no relevant sites at this location could he go ahead with clearing and grubbing. Staff indicated that the client's position as long as the Paleontological Report and monitoring were done it would be acceptable. They would need to check to make certain that the person doing the monitoring was qualified. Dave Saccullo said Mike Hogan's firm would be doing the Archaeology and Paleontology monitoring. 011 9 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 3. Chairperson Mouriquand commented he would probably have Harry Quinn doing the monitoring as Mr. Hogan was not a qualified Paleontologist. 4. Commissioner Wilbur asked what the protocol was for Interim Phase II reports from staff's experience. Staff replied they have been submitted in the past and accepted. In this case, since the results did not reveal artifacts they would be comfortable accepting the Interim Report. If anything is found, or the status changes, it would be brought back to the Commission. 5. Commissioner Sharp was concerned about what would be found under the tamarisks, but was happy the project would be monitored. Mr. Saccullo said they would have a monitor and contact the proper tribal entities as necessary. 6. Chairperson Mouriquand had no further comments and agreed with staff's recommendations. 7. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Puente and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-010 accepting the Interim Phase II Archaeological Test Program for Tentative Tract No. 32201, as prepared by Archaeological Advisory Group, subject to conditions. Unanimously approved. E. A Cultural Resources Investigation of the Point Happy Ranch Project Area (Tentative Tract Map 31348) Applicant: Madison Development Archaeological Consultant: McKenna, et al Location: 46-201 Washington Street (located on the west side of Washington Street, approximately 300 feet south of Highway 1 1 1) 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairperson Mouriquand stated the report is a nice contribution to the history of La Quinta. 012 10 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 3. Archaeological Consultant Jeanette A. McKenna was present and pointed out the photo on the cover of the report was that of Mrs. Louise Neeley. 4. Commissioner Wilbur said he knew this report would go to the Library and Historic Museum, but he suggested a copy be given to each of the City Council members to demonstrate what can be done. Chairperson Mouriquand commented there was a large expense attached to producing reports this detailed. She suggested one copy be presented at a Council meeting to let them know it would be filed in the Community Development Department for their review. Staff replied there was protocol on how the Council was informed of certain matters. They are included in a weekly update. Chairperson Mouriquand agreed it would save printing expenses and would be a more efficient way to notify the Council. 5. Commissioner Sharp thanked the Archaeologist for such a nice scholarly piece of work. He thought the work was so well done a copy should go to the Chamber of Commerce and the La Quinta Hotel. It was a historical document and should be shared. Chairperson Mouriquand said a copy should be put in the Library. 6. Ms. McKenna said the Historical Society might be able to use this report, possibly as a fund raiser. She added, one of her employees was in graduate school and would be using portions of this report in her thesis. Commissioner Sharp asked if the Commission would be able to obtain copies of that report. Ms. McKenna replied it would be possible. She clarified the research was being done on Mrs. Neeley's family and their impact on the history of the Valley. She said their family history was very amazing the more you looked into it. She said you're very impressed when you read the transcripts, hear her speak about her parents, her grandparents, where they came from, what they did, how they got here, and how quickly they came from living in tents, to a generation later, all being college graduates. 013 11 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 7. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested Council be informed the report will become part of a thesis. The message to Council should be there is academic value in doing these kinds of investigations rather than just to obtain building permits and entitlements for projects. Efforts of this nature can lead to valuable contributions to local history and academic study. The City should be proud of, and encourage more of this activity and possibly look into promoting a scholarship fund. It's too bad there isn't a copy of the 1997 Revisions to the Draft Context Statement because a lot of those things have been addressed and cleaned up and I think the archaeologists are using the 1996 version. However, this is an outstanding effort and a lot of work went into this. She thanked Ms. McKenna and her staff. 8. Ms. McKenna said a copy of the video was given to staff, but she has the original, if additional copies needed to be maide. She also commented it was amazing the information that could be obtained when the General Land Office and the County records were used. 9. Commissioner Sharp commented there had previously been a movement in the area, about a City of La Quinta Pageant. He said he could see a Pageant being produced from this historical information. 10. Chairperson Mouriquand asked the Commission to recall the reason this report was commissioned. The previous reports did not go far enough, and the Commission requested a more detailed effort be done. That was accomplished in this document. She asked if the Commission and staff ifelt this property had been adequately documented. Staff replied there had been two efforts. One was to document all that was possible, including Mrs. Neeley's information, and the other was to consider the possibility of inclusion in the Register. Chairperson Mouriquand asked for Ms. McKenna's recommendations as to where the Commission needed to go next. 014 12 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 11. Ms. McKenna replied monitoring would have to continue and commented on the following process to nominate a site: for the State Register. The Ranch meets the minimum requirements of criteria 1, 2 and the potential for 4. Criteria 3 was discounted which was the architecture, because of the deterioration of the buildings, the addition of things that had nothing to do with Point Happy and the significant removal of elements to Point Happy to where you had such a small fraction left it was really hard to say it was representative of what Point Happy and the Clark years would have represented. 12. Staff asked Ms. McKenna to explain the four criteria to the Commission. Ms. McKenna stated Criterias 1 and 2 are the associations with events and persons and gave examples of people and events that fit the criteria. She said Criteria 4 is sort of a catchall which allows for the potential of buried resources and the ability to do additional research. She then gave examples of several local family histories which would help qualify the project for Criteria 4. She said the project met three of the four criteria for the California Register of Historic Resources. It would take a stronger case to qualify for the National Register. She didn't think it would qualify unless something really significant came up during the monitoring, but this was certainly a California Historic Landmark. 13. Staff commented the next step would be to go through the nomination process. The applicant and the applicant's representative could help in doing this as we would need to get the primary record from them as well as a letter from this Commission and the balance of documentation for nomination. Staff asked if that was the Commission's wishes. The Commissioners unanimously agreed. 14. Commissioner Sharp asked why the Duponts were not included in the report. Ms. McKenna replied she did not go into a lot of detail because she was zeroing in on this particular property. She did the same thing with Miss Marble. They had a lot of information, but had to draw the line as to where they were going to limit the documentation. Mrs. Neeley and her oral history made reference to all the movie people. O1� 13 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 15. Chairperson Mouriquand said there was approximately three hours of video and she would like to see it. She mentioned possibly the rest of the Commissioners, as well as Council, might like to see it. Staff said they were working out some form of accountability as to who had the video, possibly a check out system. They suggested another appropriate system would be to check with the City Clerk to see if they had any measure, or method to duplicate the video to perhaps a DVD or CD Rom. Staff will look into it and get back to the Commission. 16. Ms. McKenna made a comment about their attempts to add some interest, to the video, by pretending they were Huell Howser. This, however, did make an honest case for the Commission to ask Mr. Howser to come back and re -do the interview. If he were to interview Mrs. Neeley, about early La Quinta, it would be a good story. She suggested a copy of the tape be sent to him. 17. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested, in lieu of checking out the videos, possibly a movie night could be planned for all the Commissioners to see it. They could then decide how to proceed as far as promoting and designating the report and video. She said staff could have copies made and devise a check out system as well as archive some copies. Duplicate copies could be provided to the Library and other appropriate places. 18. Ms. McKenna said they spliced together the original cassettes to make the copy they have now. She suggested the original could be made available if staff had means of burning a CD. 19. Applicant's representative, Ed Alderson asked how many copies were made. Ms. McKenna replied an original and three copies, two of which were given to the City, and one to Ms. Neeley. 20. Staff said they would check to find out what is available on the City's media system. 016 14 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 21. Staff said they would bring back an outline, with as much information as possible, on the nomination procedures for a State Historic Landmark. They were unsure if the Council needed to provide a letter, but would check on this. Chairperson Mouriquand said the Commission had SHPO powers, as a CLG, and could write the letter. Staff stated they would begin putting the primary records together and bring the information back to the Commission. Ms. McKenna asked if the applicant could gain any tax credit through the Mills act. Chairperson Mouriquand answered there were no Mills Act contracts in place in La Quinta, but it needs to come back for discussion as the project might qualify. Possibly staff could look into this and forward the information to the property owner so they could see how this would benefit them because it required property owner's authorization to proceed. It would definitely be to the owner's advantage for property taxes. 22. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilbur and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-011 accepting the Cultural Resources Investigation of the Point Happy Ranch Project Area as submitted. The Commission also directed staff to seek the nomination for California Historic Landmark for the Point Happy Ranch Site. Unanimously approved with Commissioners Puente and Wright being absent. VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: None VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS: A. Commissioner Sharp stated he was concerned about the rescheduling of Gary Resvaloso's presentation. The Commission had not heard anything further and wanted to know the status of Mr. Resvaloso's upcoming presentation. Staff replied they had made numerous contacts with Mr. Resvaloso's office, but had nothing definite yet. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested staff send a letter to Mr. Resvaloso inviting him to make his presentation at an upcoming meeting. She added the Commission could also invite representatives from the Augustine, Santa Rosa, and Cabazon Bands to attend a future meeting. 017 15 Historic Preservation Commission May 20, 2004 B. Commissioner Wilbur commented that at the last meeting there was a discussion about May being Historic Preservation Month and with La Quinta being the only city in the Valley with CLG status there; should be a news release about the Commission's Ten Year Anniversary and accomplishments. The point being May is almost over. One thing about public relations is if it isn't timely, it isn't used. Staff commented they spoke to the City Administration about the Commission's direction for a presentation and/or a plaque and was advised that although this Commission has done a wonderful job, this was not possible as it was not done for the other Commissions. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested staff try to get a newspaper article out before the end of the month. Possibly a few words about the Commission being 10 years old, and some of their accomplishments as well as the fact the Commission has just concluded the Point Happy Report. Staff asked if the Commission needed to see the article before it went out. Commissioner Wilbur has a Public Relations background and offered to take a look at it. C. Commissioner Sharp asked about presentation of information/notes from the California Preservation meeting the Commission attended earlier this month. Chairperson Mouriquand suggested each Commissioner make a five minute presentation, at the June 17`" meeting of the information they received at the Conference. Vill. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Sharp and Wilbur to adjourn this Regular Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission to the next Meeting to be held on June 17, 2004. This meeting of the Historical Preservation Commission was adjourned at 4:34 p.m. Unanimously approved. Submitted by: Carolyn Walker Secretary 013 16 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: JUNE 17, 2004 ITEMS: 1.) PHASE I CULTURAL RESOURCES SURVEY FOR THE LA QUINTA FAMILY APARTMENTS (SDP 03-788) 2.) PHASE I PALEONTOLOGICAL SURVEY FOR THE LA QUINTA FAMILY APARTMENTS (SDP 03-788) LOCATION: EAST SIDE OF DUNE PALMS ROAD, APPROXIMATELY 650 FEET SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 111 APPLICANT: UHC LA QUINTA L.P. ARCHAEOLOGICAL CONSULTANT: TRC COMPANIES (GREIG PARKER, RPA) PREVIOUS REVIEW: These reports, originally submitted by La Quinta Family Apartments L.P., were reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission on November 20, 2003. At that time the Commission requested revisions to the reports prior to accepting them (see Attachment 1). Previously, the two surveys were contained in a single document. A new applicant has submitted individual reports to address the archaeological and paleontological concerns of the Commission. BACKGROUND: The study area is an "L" shaped property consisting of approximately 10 acres on which the applicant wishes to construct a 200-unit apartment complex. In order to process the applications for approval, an Environmental Assessment is being prepared. This requires a Phase I cultural resources assessment be prepared and accepted by the City of La Quinta. REVISED ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY ANALYSIS: An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System at UC Riverside. The study area has not been surveyed. Seven prehistoric and historic sites have been recorded within a .25 mile radius around the project area. Artifacts P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt sdp 03-788 revised ph Ldoc found during those surveys include pottery sherds, fire -affected rock, flakes, animal bone, concrete house slab, glass, ceramics, and metal fragments. The report has been revised slightly to address the local cultural setting of the Coachella Valley. The report largely provides general information regarding the prehistoric setting of the coastal region. A Sacred Lands search was conducted at the California Native American Heritage Commission in Sacramento with no previously recorded Native American Sacred Sites on or within the vicinity of the project area. The revised report does not indicate that any local tribes were contacted. An on -foot survey of the entire property was conducted by walking the site at 15- meter interval. The survey yielded no physical evidence of prehistoric or historic (more than 50 years old) occupation of the study area. The report concludes the site has a high potential for subsurface cultural resources because of the numerous resources found in the vicinity and recommends that an archaeological monitor be present for all ground disturbing activities. REVISED PALEONTOLOGICAL SURVEY ANALYSIS: For the original report a record search was only conducted at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The revised report states a record search was also conducted at the San Bernardino County Museum. Neither facility identified any known vertebrate fossils on the project site. However, they did note fossils have been found in the vicinity. The original report recommended that monitoring be conducted for subsurface excavations greater than 10 meters (approximately 30 feet). The revised report recommends that a site specific mitigation plan be prepared requiring monitoring of excavations that extend deeper than the upper layers of Quaternary sand dune deposits. This depth is recommended because it would be the level that the ancient lake bed would be at. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the La Quinta Family Apartments Cultural Resources survey as presented, subject to the recommendations in the report and the following conditions: A. The site shall be monitored during on and off -site trenching and rough grading by qualified archaeological monitors. Proof of retention of monitors shall be given to the City prior to issuance of first earth - moving or clearing permit. B. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Community Development Department for approval by the Historic P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt sdp 03-788 revised ph I.doc Preservation Commission prior to the issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy for the project. C. Collected archaelogical 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 Certificate of Occupancy for the property. Materials shall be accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research data, and the original graphics. 2. Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the La Quinta Family Apartments Paleontological Resources Survey as presented, subject to the recommendations in the report and the following conditions: A. On and off site monitoring in areas identified as likely to contain paleontological resources shall be conducted by a qualified paleontological monitor if excavation is greater than 10 meters deep. The monitor shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays and to remove samples of sediments that are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. The monitor shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large; specimens. Proof of retention of monitor shall be given to City prior to issuance of first earth -moving permit, or before any clearing of the site is begun. B. Recovered specimens shall be prepared to the point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. C. A report of findings with an appended itemized inventory of specimens shall be submitted to the City prior to first occupancy of a residence being granted by the City. The report shall include pertinent discussions of the significance of all recovered resources where appropriate. The report and inventory, when submitted, will signify completion of the program to mitigate impacts to paleontological resources. D. Collected resources and related reports, etc. shall be given to the City for depository into the City museum which is to be constructed. Packaging of resources, reports, etc. shall comply with standards commonly used in the paleontological industry. 021 P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt sdp 03-788 revised ph I.doc Attachments: 1 . Minutes from the HPC meeting of November 20, 2003 2. La Quinta Family Apartments Cultural Resources Survey, prepared by TRC Companies (Greig Parker, RPA) 3. La Quinta Family Apartments Paleontological Resources Survey, prepared by TRC Companies (Karina Hankins) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 024. P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt sdp 03-788 revised ph I.doc ATTACHMENT #1 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting November 20, 2003 15. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilb 'r/Wright to adopt Minute Motion 2003-017 acc pting the Interim Archaeological Testing and Mi igation Report (Phase II) for Specific Plan 2003-067. animously approved. C. Phase I Cultural Resources Assessment for the La Quinta Family Apartments (SDP 2003-7881 Applicant: La Quinta Family Apartments, L.P. Archaeological Consultant: TRC Companies - Greig Parker, RPA Location: East side of Dune Palms Road, approximately 650 feet south of Highway 111. 1. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Community Development Department. 2. Chairperson Mouriquand asked the elevation of the site. Staff replied it appeared to be 60 feet. 3. Chairperson Mouriquand said she had some concerns about the report. In particular, the fact the report calls for paleontological monitoring if they go below 10 meters. That would be over 30 feet. She had some questions about that depth measurement. She asked if the project was above, below, or at shoreline on this project. Staff replied it appeared to be above. Discussion followed about the question of depth and location of depth explained in the report. 4. Chairperson Mouriquand stated the report referred to significant vertebrate fossils at that 10 meter depth. She asked about the invertebrate fossils. Staff replied the Commission could change the depth to what they felt would be appropriate. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if they would have to be within the Lakebed area before paleontological monitoring was required. Staff replied it has previously been done that way. 023 P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 11-20-03.doc Historic Preservation Commission Meeting November 20, 2003 5. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if there would be any deep holes in the project. Staff replied there would not be. She said she didn't see a problem with following the recommendation. She noted for reference the map on Page 6 will need to be on a 1:1 ratio if they are going to file it with the Eastern Information Center. In reviewing the Cultural Setting Discussion, starting on page 7 and going through Page 9, the consultant used' the Palma complex, the Steedas tradition, the San Luis Rey complex which are cultural time periods which are not of this area, but of the coastal areas. They don't fit in the Coachella Valley. She noticed the consulting firm was from Concord, with a local representative in Orange County. She suggested there be some communication with the consultant to use the appropriate cultural discussions to fit the Coachella Valley. Staff replied they would send the consultant a letter advising them of same. 6. Chairperson Mouriquand asked the Commission if they wanted to reject the report and ask the consultant to correct the deficiencies. The Commissioners agreed. 7. Commissioner Sharp added the map needed to be fixed. It showed two trailer parks in close proximity and the report says "...on the site of a former trailer park...... Staff commented the map was not accurate. 8. Commissioner Wright commented the Commission needs to be consistent as these were the same requirements asked of other consultants. Staff replied the project was currently on hold for re -design and staff would request the corrections. 9. Commissioner Puente asked for clarification on the question of the 10 meter depth requirement. Chairperson Mouriquand said there was little likelihood the developer would ever dig that deep so it wasn't a problem. The project is at 60 foot elevation. The shoreline was at 42 feet above mean sea level so they got a margin of 18 feet or so. They probably were within the shoreline marsh environment. There may be some vertebrates in P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 1 1-20-03.doc 0 2 4 Historic Preservation Commission Meeting November 20, 2003 there, but you're also going to have a lot of invertebrates such as snails and bi-valves, but you could also encounter those on the surface. We have been considering the little bi-valves, etc. as part of our paleontological/fossil record' connected with the Ancient Lake. She then asked if there was a paleo letter included from the Museum so the Commission would also know the primary source of information. Staff said it didn't appear as though there was a letter. She stated they should have included that as well to separate the Paleo from the Archaeo. 10. Commissioner Wright asked if staff could write them a letter explaining how the Commission would like the report to be laid out, as a standard report. Staff replied they would. 1 1 . Chairperson Mouriquand stated they did follow the ARMR format. She read a part of the report stating a search was conducted at UCR, but they did not do a paleo records search at San Bernardino County Museum which is where the local records would be located. She suggested the consultant be asked why they didn't use that Museum which would have our local paleontological archives. 12. Commissioner Puente asked if the Commission could request the 10 meter qualification be removed. Chairperson Mouriquand said it would be a simple thing to decide if the grading was at 42 feet or lower, as that would determine whether the City's normal paleontological monitoring condition would apply. 13. Commissioner Sharp asked how that affects the project if they go 30 feet into the ground. Chairperson Mouriquand said with the proposed development they are not going to go that deep. 14. Commissioner Wright commented the 30 foot figure may have been one of the standard conditions used in the consultant's local area. P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 11-20-03.doc Historic Preservation Commission Meeting November 20, 2003 15. Chairperson Mouriquand stated the qualifications of Corrina Hinkins were missing from the packet. She suggested her Statement Of Qualifications be provided. She also asked the map be fixed to a 1:1 ratio and the appropriate local cultural setting replace the one which is a coastal discussion. 16. Staff asked if they needed to include the question about using the Los Angeles County Museum instead of the San Bernardino County Museum. Chairperson Mouriquand replied yes, since this Museum is the local repository for paleontology and is appropriate for our area. They need to expand and clarify on this choice. 17. Chairperson Mouriquand commented when she read through the report discussion it seemed rather skimpy and did not show a thorough understanding of the history of the area. The historical discussion does not give enough detail. 18. Commissioner Wright said the Commission has certain standards and all reports should be consistent. 19. Commissioner Sharp said it seemed to him, in previous projects around this area, there were Indian Villages and it is a very sensitive area. Chairperson Mouriquand agreed and stated there had been a lot of sites found in that area. She commented she was surprised nothing was found. 20. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright/Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2003-018 continuing the Phase I Cultural Resources Assessment for the La Quinta Family Apartments (SDP 2003-788) with the following recommendations: a. A letter be sent to the consultant advising them of the requirements needed in the Archaeological /Paleontological report to the Commission and requesting they separate the two reports. b. Clarify recommendation of 10 meter depth. C. Correct map area and adjust the ratio to 1 :1 P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 1 1-20-03.doc U 2 U Historic Preservation Commission Meeting November 20, 2003 d. Replace cultural information from Los Angeles with appropriate cultural discussion derived from local sources. e. Include qualifications of the person doing survey (Corrina Hinkins) f. Request consultant include a paleontological letter from the San Bernardino County Museum. g. Change cultural setting to reflect appropriate Coachella Valley Native American occupation. Unanimously approved. VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL A. Information on the California Preservation Conference was istributed. Discussion followed as to who would be able. to V. COMMISSPQNER ITEMS A. Update n Point Happy Ranch. Staff explained the gate was determin to be non -historic. The applicant is: 1). designing gates simi r to those currently in place; 2). working with the Historical S iety on the oral history; 3). Jeanette McKenna is working on th National Register eligibility. The project recently went before e City Council and was continued due to circulation concekns. VL ADJOURNMENT There being no further bus lf Commissioners Wright/Sharp \\ Historic Preservation Commis; held on December 18, 20 Preservation Commission was approved. Submitted by, Carolyn Walker Secretary ess, it was moved and seconded by o adjourn this Regular Meeting of the i n to the next Regular Meeting to be D This meeting of the Historic ad urned at 3:53 p.m. Unanimously P:\CAROLYN\Nisi Pres Com\HPC 11-20-03.doc 027 HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: JUNE 17, 2004 ITEM: PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT FOR TTM 32201 LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF MADISON STREET AND AVENUE 60 APPLICANT: CHOICE ENTERPRISE. PALEONTOLOGICAL CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (HARRY QUINN) BACKGROUND: The property is a rectangular 6+acre parcel in south La Quinta at the northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 60. A Phase I (survey level) paleontological resources assessment has been completed for a Tentative Tract map application that is being processed by the City. This will be part of the Environmental Assessment required by the California Environmental Quality Act for the project application. The assessment includes a records search and field reconnaissance of the property. A Phase I (survey level) cultural resources (archaeological/historical) assessment was accepted at the meeting of April 22, 2004 with a Phase 11 Testing report accepted at the meeting of May 20, 2004. The study area is located at approximately 25 to 40 feet below mean sea level and was previously covered with water during the high stands of Ancient Lake Cahuilla (at maximum 42 feet above mean sea level). DISCUSSION: A paleontological records search for the property was conducted at Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM) in (Redlands and CRM TECH's library. According to the report, SBCM had not completed their records search at the time of the writing of this report and therefore a response was not obtained from SBCM. CRM TECH reviewed SBCM responses from other properties in the vicinity. The Commission may wish to wait for a response or place a condition that would require a response prior to final CEQA action by the City Council. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities exist within the study area but paleontological localities exist in the vicinity. 0%8 p[\stan\hpc\rpt ph 1 tt 32201 paleo.doc The field survey conducted by CRM TECH consisted of systematically walkiing over the site at 15-meter intervals and visually observing the site for fossils. Surface visibility was 80-100% throughout the project site. Scattered fresh water mollusk shells and shell fragments were observed on the surface of the project site. No fish bones or other vertebrate fossil remains were found. Based on what was found during the field survey and previous discoveries in the vicinity, the report concludes the project site to be an area of high paleontological sensitivity for primarily Holocene -age lacustrine invertebrate fossils. Therefore, the report recommends surface collection of the fresh water mollusk and monitoring of the site during tree removal, grading and other earth -moving activities. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the Paleontological Resources Assessment Report (for Tentative Tract 32201), as prepared by CRM TECH, subject to the recommendations contained in the report and the following conditions: 1 . On- and off -site monitoring of earth -moving and grading in areas identified as likely to contain paleontological resources shall be conducted by a qualified paleontological monitor. The monitor shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays and to remove samples of sediments that are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. The monitor shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large specimens. Proof that a monitor has been retained shall be given to City prior to issuance of first earth - moving permit, or before any clearing of the site is begun. 2. Recovered specimens shall be prepared to the point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. 3. A report of findings with an appended itemized inventory of specimens shall be submitted to the City prior to the first occupancy of a residence being granted by the City. The report shall include pertinent discussions of the significance of all recovered resources where appropriate. The report and inventory, when submitted will signify completion of the program to mitigate impacts to paleontological resources. 4. Collected resources and related reports, etc. shall be given to the City for curation. Packaging of resources, reports, etc. shall comply with standards commonly used in the paleontological industry. U L .j pl\stan\hpc\rpt ph 1 tt 32201 pareo.doc Attachment: Paleontological Resources Assessment Report (for Tentative Tract 32201) City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: �. '�30AIOI Stan Sawa, Principal Planner (130 p[\stan\hpc\rpt ph 1 tt 32201 paleo.doc HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: JUNE 17, 2004 ITEM: 1.) HISTORICAL/ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT — ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 762-240-011 2.) PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT - ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 762-240-011 LOCATION: NORTH SIDE OF AVENUE 58, APPROXIMATELY ONE-HALF MILE WEST OF MADISON STREET APPLICANT: DUC HOUSING PARTNERS CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) BACKGROUND: The study area is a 10± acre parcel located in the southern part of the city :south of PGA West. Several structures, including a modern -era single family residence and garage/shed exist in the center portion of the site. There is no indication noted in the report that the property had any other use or had been used for agricultural purposes. The City is currently processing applications to allow a single family residential development on the property. Phase I (survey level) archaeological/historical and paleontological resources assessments have been completed for the property. The assessments include record searches and field reconnaissance of the property. These assessments will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project application. ARCHAEOLOGICAL DISCUSSION: An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside. The records search indicated that the northernmost portion of the project area may have been previously surveyed, but no cultural resources had been recorded on or adjacent to the site. Within one mile of the site, the records search showed 25 + previous surveys, resulting in 15 prehistoric sites, three historic -era sites and several isolated finds. None of these previously recorded sites are located in the immediate vicinity of this project area. Historical background research was conducted at the Science Library Map Room at UC Riverside and at the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Office in Moreno Valley. The search did not indicate any historic use of the property to the present day. U31 P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt ph 1 tt 32072 paleo.doc The on -foot field survey was conducted by walking parallel north -south transects spaced fifteen meters apart. The results of this survey were negative for prehistoric or historic resources. The historic research found that the existing structures on the site were constructed after 1959 and not considered potential historic resources. The report concludes that no cultural resources exist on the property and therefore, no additional investigation is needed, unless buried resources are found during earth - moving operations. The report does not quantify the likelihood of unearthing buried cultural materials. Therefore, Staff recommends monitoring by a qualified archaeologist. PALEONTOLOGICAL DISCUSSION: The study area is located at approximately 30 feet above mean sea level and was previously covered with water during the high stands of Ancient Lake Cahuilla (at maximum 42 feet above mean sea level). A paleontological records search for the property was conducted at the San Bernardino County Museum, Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County and CRM TECH's library. The records search indicated the area contains lake avid fluvial sediments known as Lake Cahuilla beds, but no paleontological localities (sites) have been recorded on the project site, but sites have been identified in the vicinity. The on -foot field survey did not find any paleontological resources on the surface of the project site. The report concludes the study areas ancient lake beds have a low potential for vertebrate fossil remains but a high potential for invertebrate remains, such as fresh water. Because of this fact, Paleontological monitoring of earth -moving activities is warranted. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-01 1 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to the following conditions: A. The site shall be monitored during on- and off -site trenching and rough grading by qualified archaeological monitors. Proof of retention of monitors shall be given to the City prior to issuance of first earth -moving or clearing permit. B. 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. P:\stan\hpc\hpc rpt ph 1 tt 32072 paleo.doc '',' 0 3 2 C. Collected archaelogical 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 Certificate of Occupancy for the property. Materials shall be accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research data, and the original graphics. 2. Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-011 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to the following conditions: A. On- and off -site monitoring of earth -moving and grading in areas identified as likely to contain paleontological resources shall be conducted by a qualified paleontological monitor. The monitor shall be equipped to salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays and to remove samples of sediments that are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. The monitor shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large specimens. Proof that a monitor has been retained shall be given to City prior to issuance of first earth -moving permit, or before any clearing of the site is begun. B. Recovered specimens shall be prepared to the point of identification and permanent preservation, including washing of sediments to recover small invertebrates and vertebrates. C. A report of findings with an appended itemized inventory of specimens shall be submitted to the City prior to the first occupancy of a residence being granted by the City. The report shall include pertinent discussions of the significance of all recovered resources where appropriate. The report and inventory, when submitted will signify completion of the program to mitigate impacts to paleontological resources. D. Collected resources and related reports, etc. shall be given to the City. Packaging of resources, reports, etc. shall comply with standards commonly used in the paleontological industry. 11. U33 pl\stan\hpc\hpc rpt ph 1 tt 32072 paleo.doc Attachments: 1 . Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-011 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) 2. Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762- 240-01 1 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: GbGnn. 51 1AN -& Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 034 pl\stan\hpc\hpc rpt ph 1 tt 32072 paleo.doc