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2004 08 19 HPC� T Lai o� Twit Qu&r(v F GZ CF`y OF TN�v HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AG EIS ®A The Regular Meeting to be held in the Session Room at the La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California AUGUST 19, 2004 3:00 P.M. Beginning Minute Motion 2004-017 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 July 15, 2004 �. -00.1 V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Archaeological Survey and Testing, Assessor's Parcel No. 770-040-012 (SP 04-071); and Paleontological Resources Assessment Report, Assessor's Parcel No. 770- 040-012 (SP04-071)• Applicant: Pacific Retirement Services Archaeological Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal and Harry Quinn, Geologist/Paleontologist) Location: Southeast corner of Washington Street and Avenue 50 B. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report, Assessor's Parcel No. 767-580-015 (TT 32742); and Paleontological Resources Assessment Report, Assessor's Parcel No. 767- 580-015 (TT 32742). Applicant: Village Properties Archaeological Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal, and Harry Quinn, Geologist/Paleontologist) Location: West side of Monroe Street between Mountain View Lane and Brown Deer Park. C. Historical/Archaeological Rsources Survey Report Assessor's Parcel No. 762- 240-015 (TT 32225); and Paleoloaical Resources Assessment Report Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240- 015 (TT 32225). Applicant: Earth Systems Southwest for Vince D' Ambra Archaeological Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal and Harry Quinn, Geologist/Paleontologist) Location: Northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 58 D. Archaeological Mitigation and Data Recovery Report — Site CA-RIV-5158 (TT 32398); and Paleontological Resources Assessment Report — Site CA-RIV-5158 (TT 32398) Applicant: Robert Schumacher Archaeological Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal) Location: Northeast corner of Monroe Street and Avenue 60 VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS: VIII. ADJOURNMENT 002 MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING A Regular meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall Session Room 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA July 15, 2004 This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Chairperson Leslie Mouriquand at 1:14 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 Sharp, Wilbur, Wright and Chairperson Mouriquand Absent: It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright and Wilbur to excuse Commissioner Puente. Unanimously approved. Staff Present: Planning Manager Oscar Orci, Principal Planner Stan Sawa, and Secretary Carolyn Walker. II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: A. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilbur and Sharp to reorganize the Agenda by taking Item I.C. after Item V.B. Unanimously approved. IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: A. Commissioner Sharp asked a question about Business Item A, #17, specifically the portion stating "Chairperson Mouriquand asked if the applicant, or staff, could forward a copy of this report to the three Indian Tribes..." He asked if this had been done. Staff replied the applicant was required to submit proof, but it had not been received. In response to Commissioner Sharp, staff indicated that proof of monitoring is required before the permit is issued. 0C,3 P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\7-15-04.doe Last printed 8/16/04 3:08 PM Historic Preservation Commission July 15, 2004 It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Sharp and Wilbur to approve the minutes of June 17, 2004 as submitted. Unanimously approved. V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Revised Phase I Archaeological Survey Report on the Bermuda Dunes Property. Applicant: Tahiti Partners Archaeological Consultant: L & L Environmental, Inc. (Leslie Nay Irish, Principal) Location: South side of Darby Road, east of Washington Street and Palm Royale Drive. 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 indicated the staff report said the Paleo/Indian, North American, Archaic and late Prehistoric Periods were being deleted from the report. Pages 6 and 7, in the revised report, have been included, and not deleted. Staff replied there had been some confusion since the titles were taken out, but the information was left in the report. The local historic information was included. 3. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if there was any further information on Iona McKenzie; was there any potential significance about her as a local person. Staff replied she owned property west and south of this development and there had been some research done previously by CRM TECH on one of those projects, but there was no significant findings. 4. Commissioner Sharp said there had been a post office near by. 5. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if the applicant did any level of research as to whom Iona McKenzie was as it was not indicated in the report. 6. Commissioner Sharp said staff indicated Ms. McKenzie was a large landholder and was mentioned in previous area reports. 2 » -` 004 Historic Preservation Commission July 15, 2004 7. Commissioner Sharp stated he wished to commend the consultant on their efforts to contact the Native Americans. He was glad to see an effort being made to improve communications with the local Tribes. 8. Chairperson Mouriquand said the consultants are required, by the Heritage Commission, to contact the local Tribes or show evidence of the attempt. 9. Commissioner Sharp asked how deep the applicant planned to dig; was there going to be any subterranean excavation? Staff replied this project was a standard, single-family subdivision, slab on grade construction, with no extraordinary excavation. 10. It was as moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-017 approving the; report as submitted. Unanimously approved. B. Revised Phase I Archaeological and Paleontological Survey Report_ on Tentative Tract Map 31852 Applicant: Ehline Company Archaeological Consultant: L & L Environmental, Inc . (Leslie Nay Irish, Principal) 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. Project Consultant, Anna Hoover of L & L Environmental, on a conference call, answered questions from the Commissioners. 3. Chairperson Mouriquand asked if the applicant knew when the property was farmed. Ms. Hoover replied it was a modern addition. The corral and the prickly pear cactus were not found in the 2002 aerial. They had been added within the last two years, which was stated in the report. 005 3 Historic Preservation Commission July 15, 2004 4. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2004-018 accepting the Revised Phase I Archaeological and Paleontological Survey Report for Tentative Tract Map 31852. Unanimously approved. B. Election of Chair and Vice Chair. Chairperson Mouriquand opened the nominations for Chair. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright and Sharp to nominate Allan Wilbur as Chair. There being no other nominations, the nominations were closed and Allan Wilbur was unanimously elected Chair. Chairperson Mouriquand opened the nominations for Vice Chair. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Sharp and Wright to nominate Leslie Mouriquand as Vice Chair. There being no other nominations, the nominations were closed and Leslie Mouriquand was unanimously elected Vice Chair. VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS: A. Commissioner Sharp asked if persons attending the meeting could be identified. Staff replied these are public meetings and persons in attendance are not required to identify themselves unless they :speak. VIII. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright/Sharp to move this Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission to the La Quinta City Council Chambers for the Special ARMR Format Training Session. The next Regular Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission meeting will be held on August 19, 2004. The July 15, 2004, meeting of the Historical Preservation Commission was adjourned at 1:45 p.m. Unanimously approved. Submitted by: Carolyn Walker Secretary ,.— -' 006 4 MAI DATE: ITEM: LOCATION APPLICANT: CONSULTANT BACKGROUND: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT AUGUST 19, 2004 ARCHAEOLOGICAL SURVEY AND TESTING AT ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 770-040-012 (SP 04-071) SOUTHEAST CORNER OF WASHINGTON STREET AND AVENUE 50 PACIFIC RETIREMENT SERVICES CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) The study area is a 7+acre parcel located on the southeast corner of Washington Street and Avenue 50. The property is vacant with desert shrubs and trees growing on the property. The City is currently processing applications to allow a senior retirement development on this property and the property on the northwest corner of the intersection. A Phase I (survey level) Archaeological/Historical Resources Assessment has been completed for the property in accordance with the ARMR format. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. Additionally, a Phase 2 Testing Program has been conducted on a prehistoric site found in the study area during the field reconnaissance. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. DISCUSSION: An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside and in the CRM TECH library. The records search indicated the study area has been surveyed in 1980 and 2000. In the 2000 study (McKenna 2000) three isolates were recorded on the property. A scatter of historic -era debris was also noted on the property at that time. A large prehistoric (Native American) site has been recorded in close proximity to the east. Within one mile of the site, the records search showed 15 previous surveys, resulting in 55 prehistoric sites, one historic -era sites and two isolated finds. None of these previously recorded sites are located in the project area. �.. 00.4 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1,2 archaeo.doc 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 indicated that no human activities have occurred on the property. The on -foot field survey was conducted by walking parallel north -south transects spaced fifteen meters apart. As a result of this survey one prehistoric site (CA-RIV- 7408) and historic -era site (CA-RIV-741 1 H) was identified and recorded. The historic - era site appears to be a one-time disposal of a residents' trash from the mid Twentieth Century. It was determined that the prehistoric site needed further investigation to determine significance. A research design was prepared for the testing procedures. The testing of the site consisted of re -surveying the site, a surface collection of artifacts, and excavation of 10 shovel test pits (25 x 25 cm) and 8 test units (1 x 1 m). Surface collection consisted of ceramic sherds, chipped stone pieces, rocks and fire - affected clay. The excavations resulted in additional artifacts including the same as those noted above, as well as a shell bead, and several animal bones. The report concludes that the site does not hold potential to provide any important data regarding the prehistory of the area. Furthermore, the historic -era trash scatter could not be related to any historic figures or events of recognized significance in national, state or local history. Therefore, the report states the sites do not constitute "historic resources". However, it is acknowledged that the site is highly sensitive for cultural resources and recommends monitoring of earth -moving activities. There is no indication in the report that the Native American Heritage Commission or local Native American tribes have been contacted for comment. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Archaeological Survey and Testing at Assessor's Parcel No 770-040-012 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. The Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians shall be contacted to determine if a tribe member is to be included as an archaeological monitor. ., 008 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1,2 archaeo.doc 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. 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. Attachment: 1. Archaeological Survey and Testing at Assessor's Parcel No. 770-040- 012, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner P:\Reports - HPC\B-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1,2 archaeo.doc DATE: ITEM: LOCATION: APPLICANT: CONSULTANT: BACKGROUND: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT 11 Iel�b� li E'> �,[iZ�rJ PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 770-040-012 (SP 04-071) SOUTHEAST CORNER OF WASHINGTON STREET AND AVENUE 50 PACIFIC RETIREMENT SERVICES CRM TECH (HARRY M. QUINN GEOLOGIST/ PALEONTOLOGIST), The study area is a 7+acre parcel located on the southeast corner of Washington Street and Avenue 50. The property is vacant with desert shrubs and trees growing on the property. The City is currently processing applications to allow a senior retirement development on this property and the property on the northwest corner of the intersection. A Phase I (survey level) Paleontological Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. The report states the study area is located along what was the northern shoreline of the ancient Lake Cahuilla. DISCUSSION: A paleontological records search for the property was conducted at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM) in Redlands and CRM TECH's library. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities have been found on the property or within a one -mile radius of the subject property, but have been found in sediments similar to those on the site. The field survey conducted by CRM TECH consisted of systematically walking over the site at 15-meter intervals and visually observing the site for fossils. Much of the site has been previously disturbed by various activities. On an intact sand dude fresh water mollusks were observed on the surface. The report does not indicate that fish bones or other vertebrate fossil remains were found. 010 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1 paleo.doc 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 grading and other earth -moving activities. Based on the results of the study, the report concludes a surface collection of the freshwater mullusk remains should be completed prior to any earth -moving activities. Furthermore, paleontological monitoring of all earth -moving and trenching activities is recommended in the report. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No 762-240-015 in the City of L3 Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to the following conditions: 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 the City prior to issuance of the 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. P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1 paleo.doc Attachment: 1. Archaeological Survey and Testing at Assessor's Parcel No. 7 70-040- 012, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt sp 04-071 ph 1 paleo.doc HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: AUGUST 19, 2004 ITEM: HISTORICAL/ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 767-580-015 (TT 32742) LOCATION: WEST SIDE OF MONROE STREET BETWEEN MOUNTAIN VIEW LANE AND BROWN DEER PARK APPLICANT: VILLAGE PROPERTIES CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) BACKGROUND: The study area is a 14± acre parcel located in the southern part of the City on the west side of Monroe Street between Avenues 54 and 56. A modern -era modular residence and trailer exist in the western portion of the site along with a row of eucalyptus trees bordering the west property line. There is indication noted in the report that the property had been used for agricultural purposes in the past. More than half of the site is covered with tall grasses, brush and abandoned crops. The City is currently processing applications to allow a single-family residential development on the property. A Phase I (survey level) Archaeological/Historical Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. DISCUSSION: An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the (Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside and in the CRM TECH library. The records search indicated the study area has not been surveyed and no cultural resources had been recorded on or adjacent to the site. Within one mile of the site, the records search showed 15 previous surveys, resulting in six prehistoric sites, two historic -era sites, three historic -era buildings and 26 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. The historic research found 013 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 archaeo.doc that the existing structures on the site were constructed after 1972 and not considered potential historic resources. 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, although poor surface visibility made it impossible to conclude positively that no artifacts are present on the ground surface. There is no indication in the report that the Native American Heritage Commission or local Native American tribes have been contacted for comment. The report concludes that although no cultural resources were found on the property the property is situated in an area that is highly sensitive for subsurface archaeological remains and therefore, recommends monitoring during grading and trenching operations by a qualified archaeologist. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-011 in the City of La Ouinta, 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 the first earth -moving or clearing permit. The Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians shall be contacted to determine if a tribe member is to be included as an archaeological monitor. 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. C. 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, standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and delivered to the City prior to issuance of the 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. W'. 014 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 archaeo.doc Attachment: Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report Assessor's Parcel No. 767 -580-015, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 015 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 archaeo.doc HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: AUGUST 19, 2004 ITEM: PALEOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 767-580-015 (TT 32742) LOCATION: WEST SIDE OF MONROE STREET BETWEEN MOUNTAIN VIEW LANE AND BROWN DEER PARK APPLICANT: VILLAGE PROPERTIES CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (HARRY QUINN, GEOLOGIST/PALEONTOLOGIST) BACKGROUND: The study area is a 14± acre parcel located in the southern part of the City on the west side of Monroe Street between Avenues 54 and 56. A modern -era modular residence and trailer exist in the western portion of the site along with a row of eucalyptus trees bordering the west property line. There is indication noted in the report that the property had been used for agricultural purposes in the past. More than half of the site is covered with tall grasses, brush and abandoned crops. The City is currently processing applications to allow a single-family residential development on the property. A Phase I (survey level) Paleontological Resources Assessment has been completed for the property The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. The study area is located at approximately 30 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 the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM) in Redlands and CRM TECH's library. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities have been found on the property. The closest localities found have been just outside a one -mile radius of the subject property. The field survey conducted by CRM TECH consisted of systematically walking over the site at 15-meter intervals and visually observing the site for fossils. Surface visibility was poor because of the dense plants that covered portions of the project site. Scattered fresh water snail shells and snail and mussel shell fragments were observed I_ 016 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 paleo.doc on the surface of the project site. The report does not indicate that 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. The SBCM states the study area has a "high paleontological sensitivity" and concludes the proposed project to have a "high potential to impact significant nonrenewable fossil resources", primarily Holocene -age lacustine invertebrate fossils. Based on the results of the study, the report concludes a surface collection of the freshwater mollusk remains should be completed prior to any earth -moving activities. Furthermore, paleontological monitoring of all earth -moving and trenching activities is recommended. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 767-580-015 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to 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 the City prior to issuance of the 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. 017 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 paleo.doc 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. Attachment: 1. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report Assessor's Parcel No. 767 -580-015, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: 'S- Ulm 4: G30AAM Stan Sawa, Principal Planner R• 018 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32742 ph 1 paleo.doc BI C HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: AUGUST 19, 2004 ITEM: HISTORICAL/ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 762-240-015 (TTM 32225) LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF MADISON STREET AND AVENUE 58 APPLICANT: EARTH SYSTEMS SOUTHWEST FOR VINCE D' AMBRA CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) BACKGROUND: The study area is an 8+-acre parcel located on the northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 58. The property is vacant with remains of a residence evident. There is an indication noted in the report that the property had been used for agricultural purposes. The City is currently processing applications to allow a single-family residential development on the property. A Phase I (survey level) Archaeological/Historical Resources Assessment has been completed for the property in accordance with the ARMR format. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. DISCUSSION: An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside and in the CRM TECH library. The records search indicated the study area has not been surveyed and 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 indicated that two structures have existed on the property 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 1. 019 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 archaeo.doc resources. The remains of the more recent structure and a concrete standpipe, typical of those used in early agricultural activities were found. No historic -era artifacts were observed on the ground nor was there any indication of subsurface artifactual deposits. There is no indication in the report that the Native American Heritage Commission or local Native American tribes have been contacted for comment. The report states that although the remains of the structure may date from the 1941- 1959 period and that there is a standpipe of an unknown age, there is no potential shown to qualify these as "historic resources". No well defined historic context, sufficient integrity to relate to its past or associated artifact deposits can be made. The report concludes that since no "historic resources" were encountered during the course of the study, CRM TECH is not recommending monitoring during grading and trenching operations. The HPC policy has been to require monitoring in this part of the City. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-015 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. The Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians shall be contacted to determine if a tribe member is to be included as an archaeological monitor.. B. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Cornmunity Development Department 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. O20 R\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 archaeo.doc Attachment: 1. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report Assessor's Parcel No. 762 -240-015, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner M.. 021 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 archaeo.doc HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: AUGUST 19, 2004 ITEM: PALEOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NO. 762-240-015 (TT 32225) LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF MADISON STREET AND AVENUE 58 APPLICANT: EARTH SYSTEMS SOUTHWEST FOR VINCE D' AMBRA CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (HARRY QUINN, GEOLOGIST/PALEONTOLOGIST) BACKGROUND: The study area is an 8+acre parcel located in the northwest corner of Madison Street and Avenue 58. The property is vacant with remains of a residence evident. There is an indication noted in the report that the property had been used for agricultural purposes. The City is currently processing applications to allow a single-family residential development on the property. A Phase I (survey level) Paleontological Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. The study area is located at approximately 45 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. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities have been found on the property. Two localities found have been within a one -mile radius of the subject property. The field survey conducted by CRM TECH consisted of systematically walking over the site at 15-meter intervals and visually observing the site for fossils. Surface visibility was fair to excellent (70-100%) on the project site. Abundant fresh water mollusks were observed on the surface of the project site. The report does not indicate that fish bones or other vertebrate fossil remains were found. 022 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 paleo.doc 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. The SBCM states the study area has a "high paleontological sensitivity" and concludes the proposed project has a "high potential to impact significant nonrenewable fossil resources", primarily Holocene -age lacustine invertebrate fossils. Based on the results of the study, the report concludes a surface collection of the freshwater mollusk remains should be completed prior to any earth -moving activities. Furthermore, paleontological monitoring of all earth -moving and trenching activities is recommended in the report. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel No. 762-240-015 in the City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to 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 the City prior to issuance of the 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. "{ 023 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 paleo.doc 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. Attachment: 1. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report Assessor's Parcel No. 762 -240-015, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner a 024 P:\stan\hpc\rpt tt 32225 ph 1 paleo.doc LIM HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: AUGUST 19, 2004 ITEM: ARCHAEOLOGICAL MITIGATION AND DATA RECOVERY REPORT FOR SITE CA-RIV-5158 ITT 32398) LOCATION: NORTHEAST CORNER OF MONROE STREET AND AVENUE 60 APPLICANT: ROBERT SCHUMACHER CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) BACKGROUND: The study area is 110 acre in size and proposed for development with a residential and commercial project. The property is a portion of 1,279 acres previously surveyed by CRM TECH for a larger project (Coral Mountain) that was within Riverside County's jurisdiction, but is now within the City's boundaries. This property is being split off from that larger project to allow the proposed development. CRM TECH's recent field survey of the property found and expanded upon a previously recorded (1987) prehistoric site (CA-RIV-5158). Ceramic sherds, flakes of jasper, obsidian, chalcedony, a stone pestle, and a quartz core, from which flakes were struck during tool making, were found. In order to allow the processing of the applications to allow development on this property, CRM TECH has prepared a Phase 2 testing program on this archaeological site in accordance with the ARMR format. This will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. DISCUSSION: A research design was prepared for the testing procedures. The testing of the site consisted of re -surveying the site, a surface collection of artifacts, and excavation of 10 shovel test pits (25 x 25 cm), 26 excavation units (1 x 1 m) and three trenches. Surface collection consisted of ceramic sherds, chipped stone pieces, fragments of formed tools and groundstone milling tools, fire -affected clay and rocks. The excavations resulted in additional artifacts including the same as noted above, as well as shells, bone and charcoal. The report states the variety of artifact types recovered suggests this site was an encampment area sometime after the ancient Lake Cahuilla receded. It was probably 025 \\CLQADMFSI\PLANNING\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32398 ph 2 arch aeo.doc associated with a larger village site with the occupants likely ancestors of today's Desert Cahuilla Indians. The report states identification of Site CA-RIV-5158 has been determined to constitute a "historic resource," as defined by CEQA, which required this Phase 2 testing and program prior to approval of the proposed project. With this testing and the evaluation conducted to date, mitigation to a level less than significant has been achieved. The result of this report acknowledges that the site is highly sensitive for cultural resources and therefore, monitoring during earth -moving activities is recommended. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Archaeological Mitigation and Data Recovery Report Site CA-RIV-5158 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. The Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians shall be contacted to determine if a tribe member is to be included as an archaeological monitor. 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. 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. Attachment: Archaeological Mitigation and Data Recovery Report Site CA-RIV-5158, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: 1/aw,GAU)7, Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 026 \\CLQADM FS 1 \PLAN N I NG\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32398 ph 2 archaeo.doc DATE: ITEM: LOCATION: APPLICANT: CONSULTANT: BACKGROUND: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT AUGUST 19, 2004 PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT SITE CA-RIV-5158 (TT 32398) NORTHEAST CORNER OF MONROE STREET AND AVENUE 60 ROBERT SCHUMACHER CRM TECH (HARRY QUINN, GEOLOGIST/PALEONTOLOGIST) The study area is 110 acre in size site and proposed for development with a residential and commercial project. A Phase I (survey level) Paleontological Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search and field reconnaissance of the property. This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project applications. The property is vacant, but was used as agricultural land until sometime in the recent past. The study area is located at approximately 80 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 the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County, San Bernardino County Museum (SBCM) in Redlands and CRM TECH's library. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities have been found on the property. The closest localities found have been outside a one -mile radius of the subject property. The field survey conducted by CRM TECH consisted of systematically walking over the site at 50-meter intervals and visually observing the site for fossils. The northern portion of the site contained a significant amount of fill dirt and some dense shrubs covered other areas. Surface visibility was good on the balance of the site. Scattered fresh water snail shells and snail and mussel shell fragments were observed on the surface of the project site. The report does not indicate that fish bones or other vertebrate fossil remains were found. n27 P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32398 ph 1 paleo.doc 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. Based on the results of the study, the report concludes a surface collection of the freshwater mollusk remains should be completed prior to any earth -moving activities. Furthermore, paleontological monitoring of all earth -moving and trenching activities is recommended. Staff concurs and has incorporated conditions of approval to reflect the report's conclusion. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2004- , accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel Nos. 764-024-002, -003, -004, and -005, City of La Quinta Riverside County, California", as prepared and recommended by CRM TECH, and subject to 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 the City prior to issuance of the 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. P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32398 ph 1 paleo.doc Attachment: 1 . Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Assessor's Parcel Nos. 764-024-002, -003, -004, and -005, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California (Commissioners only) Prepared by: SwVZ Stan Sawa, Principal Planner s P:\Reports - HPC\8-19-04\rpt tt 32398 ph 1 paleo.doc