2007 08 16 HPCHistoric Preservation Commission Agendas
are now available on the City's Web Page
@ www.la-auinta.orq
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
The Regular Meeting to be held in the East Conference Room at the
La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California
AUGUST 16, 2007
3:00 P.M.
Beginning Minute Motion 2007-006
I. 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 June 21, 2007.
....,". 001
Historic Preservation Commission Agenda
V. BUSINESS ITEMS:
A. Paleontological Resources Assessment of the Travertine Project, La Quinta,
Riverside County, California
Applicant: Hoffman Land Development
Consultant: SWCA Environmental Consultants
Location: Area roughly bounded by the extensions of Jefferson Street,
Madison Street, Avenue 60 and Avenue 63.
B. Class III Cultural Resources Inventory and Evaluation, Including Limited
Subsurface Testing of Archaeological Site Ca-Riv-7394 for the Proposed
Travertine Development Project
Phase I Report on Vineyards Within Section 33 of the Proposed Travertine
Development Project
Applicant: Travertine Corporation
Consultant: SWCA Environmental Consultants
Location: Area roughly bounded by the extensions of Jefferson Street,
Madison Street, Avenue 60 and Avenue 63.
C. Paleontological Evaluation Report and Mitigation Plan for a 3.4:± Acre Site,
Assessor's Parcel Number 770-020-012
Applicant: Dan Cline, Forward Architecture and Design
Consultant: George L. Kennedy, Ph.D., Brian F. Smith & Associates
Location: Northeast corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive
D. Phase I Cultural Resources Survey Report for a 3.4± Acre Site, Assessor's
Parcel Number 770-020-012
Applicant: Dan Cline, Forward Architecture and Design
Consultant: CRM Tech (Clarence Bodmer, Daniel Ballester, & Laura Hensley
Shaker).
Location: Northeast corner of Calle Tampico and Desert Club Drive
E. Updated Cultural Resources Report for St. Francis Church Parking Lot
Applicant: Prest Vuksic Architects
Consultant: CRM Tech (Michael Hogan, Ph.D.)
Location: Washington Street, 500 feet south of Avenue 47
VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL:
VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS:
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
., 002
PAReports - HPC\2007\6-16-07\HPC AGENDA.doe
Historic Preservation Commission Agenda
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Carolyn Walker, Secretary of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that the foregoing
agenda for the La Quinta Historic Preservation Commission meeting of Thursday, August
16, 2007, was posted on the outside entry to the Council Chamber, 78-495 Calle
Tampico, and the bulletin board at the La Quinta Cove Post Office, on Friday, August 10,
2007.
DATED: August 10, 2007
CAROLYId WALKER, Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\FIPC AGENDA.doc
MINUTES
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING
A Regular meeting held at the La Quinta City Hall Session Room
78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA
June 21. 2007
This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by
Chairperson Wilbur at 3:03 p.m. who asked for the roll call.
I. CALL TO ORDER
A. Roll Call.
Present: Commissioners Sharp, Wright, and Chairman
Wilbur
Absent: Commissioner Puente
Staff Present: Principal Planner Stan Sawa, Assistant
Planner Jay Wuu, and Secretary Carolyn
Walker
II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None
III. CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: Confirmed
IV. CONSENT CALENDAR:
A. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wright and Sharp to
approve the minutes of May 17, 2007, as submitted. Unanimously
approved.
V. BUSINESS ITEMS:
A. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for The La Quinta
Country Club Clubhouse
Applicant: Heinz U. Hofmann (La Quinta Country Club)
Consultants: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal)
Location: Northeast corner of Eisenhower Drive and Avenue 50.
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.
"•L� 004
P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 6-21-07.doc
Historic Preservation Commission
June 21, 2007
2. Commissioner Sharp asked if the site had been previously
surveyed. Staff said it had not because it was built prior to the
formation of the Historic Preservation Commission.
3. Chairman Wilbur asked if there was anyone, at the meeting,
representing the archaeology firm. Staff replied there was not.
He also commented on the similarity of the two reports.
4. Commissioner Wright agreed with staff's recommendation and
said he was glad the project was getting done.
5. Applicant's representative, George Prine, asked the Commission
if they would like to see the plans, to which the Commissioners
applied affirmatively. The Commissioners then had the
opportunity to look at the layout and landscaping of the new
clubhouse.
6. There being no further comments it was moved and seconded
by Commissioners Wilbur and Sharp to approve Minute Motion
2007-004 accepting the Archaeological Assessment.
Unanimously approved.
B. Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for The La Quinta
Country Club
Applicant Heinz U. Hofmann (La Quinta Country Club)
Consultants: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal)
Location: Northeast corner of Eisenhower Drive and Avenue 50
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 on the ancient Lake Cahuilla location.
3. Chairman Wilbur questioned the comment regarding "...full-time
monitoring is not necessary unless potential ly-fossiIiferous units are
encountered...... Staff clarified there would be full-time monitoring.
4. There being no further comments. It was moved and seconded by
Commissioners Wright and Sharp to adopt Minute Motion 2007-005
as submitted accepting the Paleontological Assessment. Unanimously
approved.
VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: None
•«...�'„ 005
VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS:
P:\CAROLYN\Hilt Pres Com\HPC 6-21-07.doc 2
Historic Preservation Commission
June 21, 2007
A. Comments on Commission Vacancies:
1. Commissioner Wright mentioned there were two Commission
vacancies discussed at the previous City Council meeting. He
said there were only two applicants, including him. The
positions were not advertised as "Professional" positions and
the second applicant, Ms. Peggy Redmon was a "Non
Professional" applicant. He suggested Commissioner Puente be
classified as "Professional" in order to allow Ms. Redmon the
opportunity of joining the Commission. He said the City
Attorney would be working with staff on various options
available.
2. Commissioner Sharp asked who the "Professionals" were on the
Commission and Robert Wright said it was he and Leslie
Mouriquand, who is no longer on the Commission.
3. Commissioner Wright asked staff to look into the matter and
Ms. Redmon was very qualified and very interested in the
position.
4. He added the Council conditionally approved Ms. Redmon's
appointment and hoped it could be cleared up by the
Commission's August meeting.
B. Comments on Going Dark:
Commissioner Wright suggested the Commission go dark in July
due; to the fact Maria will be out of the country and he: will be
on vacation.
2. The Commissioners agreed unanimously.
C. Comments on a visit to Point Happy:
1. Commissioner Sharp said he made a visit to Point Happy and
commented on the new gates. He said they were much stronger
and more efficient than the previous gates. He thought the
developer did a good job of replacement.
2. Commissioner Wright asked about the disposition of the old
gales. Staff said they had checked with the applicant and were
told the gates were so rusted and worn they had disintegrated.
006
P:\CAROLYN\Hist Pres Com\HPC 6-21-07.cioc 3
Historic Preservation Commission
June 21, 2007
VIII. ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by
Commissioners Wright and Sharp to adjourn this Regular Meeting of the
Historic Preservation Commission to the next Regular Meeting to be held on
July 19, 2007. This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was
adjourned at 3:21 p.m. Unanimously approved.
Submitted by:
Carolyn Walker
Secretary
007
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HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: AUGUST 16, 2007
ITEM: PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT OF THE
TRAVERTINE PROJECT, LA QUINTA, RIVERSIDE COUNTY,
CALIFORNIA
LOCATION: AREA ROUGHLY BOUNDED BY THE EXTENSIONS OF
JEFFERSON STREET, MADISON STREET, AVENUE: 60 AND
AVENUE 63
APPLICANT: HOFFMANN LAND DEVELOPMENT (TRAVERTINE
CORPORATION)
PALEONTOLOGICAL
CONSULTANT: SWCA ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS
BACKGROUND:
The study area is a property located at in the southwest portion of the City south of
the Quarry subdivision. A Specific Plan was approved for this property in 1995 to
allow a single family residential project. At that time a paleontological resources
assessment was not completed. An amendment to the Specific Plan will be submitted
for the project. Therefore, Staff requested this paleontological assessment be
completed. The Phase I (survey level) paleontological resources assessment for the
vacant property includes a paleological resources 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 amended
project application.
The property is an irregularly shaped vacant property, part of which has been used as a
vineyard until recently. The report states the parts of the eastern portion of the site
were probably along the shoreline of ancient Lake Cahuilla.
DISCUSSION:
A paleological records search for the property was conducted at the San Bernardino
County Museum and Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The; records
search indicated that no localities (fossils) have been recorded on the site or in the
vicinity of the study area, although fossil localities have been found north of Avenue
58 on both sides of Madison Street, north of this site.
P:Astan\hpc\rpt travertine paleo.doc
».._, 008
The on -foot field survey of the study area found numerous modern gastropod and
mollusk shells, found in ancient Lake Cahuilla sediments, along the southern boundary
of the study area, along the ROW of Access 3 and in the northernmost study area. No
vertebrate remains were observed during the field inspection within the study area.
The report concludes a small portion of the site is in an area of high paleontological
sensitivity, with most of the balance of the site in an area of low to high sensitivity
(sensitivity increases with depth). As such, the report concludes monitoring for
paleontological resources is necessary to ensure paleontological resources are
protected and compliance with CEQA requirements is achieved. The report includes
six mitigation measures or conditions to ensure that any paleontological resources are
properly handled.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Minute Motion 2007- , accepting the Paleontological Resources
Assessment of the Travertine Project, La Quinta Riverside County California, as
prepared and recommended by SWCA Environmental Consultants, subject to the
following additional requirements:
1 . 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 beings 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.
2. 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:
Paleontological Resources Assessment of the Travertine Project, La Quinta,
Riverside County, California
Prepared by:
��liyl AI7A
Stan Sawa, Principal Planner
-009
p\stan\hpc\hpc rpt travertine paleo.doc
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: AUGUST 16, 2007
ITEMS: CLASS III CULTURAL RESOURCES INVENTORY AND
EVALUATION, INCLUDING LIMITED SUBSURFACE
TESTING OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE CA-RIV-7394 FOR
THE PROPOSED TRAVERTINE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
PHASE I REPORT ON VINEYARDS WITHIN SECTION 33 OF
THE PROPOSED TRAVERTINE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
SUPPLEMENTAL REPORT ON CULTURAL RESOURCES
SURVEY ALONG ACCESS ROAD 3 (MADISON STREET)
AND ACCESS ROAD 4 (JEFFERSON STREET) FOR
PROPOSED TRAVERTINE DEVELOPMENT PROJECT
LOCATION: AREA ROUGHLY BOUNDED BY THE EXTENSIONS OF
JEFFERSON STREET, MADISON STREET, AVENUE 60 AND
AVENUE 63
APPLICANT: TRAVERTINE CORPORATION
ARCHAEOLOGICAL
CONSULTANT: SWCA ENVIRONMENTAL CONSULTANTS
BACKGROUND:
The study area is a property located at in the southwest portion of the City south of
the Quarry subdivision. A Specific Plan was approved for this property in 1995 to
allow a single family residential project. An amendment to the Specific Plan will be
submitted for the project. Because the last assessment was completed a number of
years ago, this new assessment has been completed. Also, additional land that is or
may be part of the project is included in the assessment. The Class III (Phase 1)
cultural resources assessment for the vacant property 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 amended project application.
DISCUSSION:
Approximately 917 acres were surveyed for this study (Attachment 1). This includes
property owned by or to be purchased by the Travertine Corporation, properly owned
by CVWD, and public lands administered by the Bureau of Land Management or
Bureau of Reclamation. Not all of this land is part of the proposed Travertine project.
PAReports - HPC�2007\8-16-07\rpt travertine archaeo.doc M., . ; 010
s
This report is called a "Class III" inventory. This terminology is the same as a Phase I
inventory which means it consists of a record search and on -site field survey. Class III
is terminology used when a Federal agency such as the ELM is involved as lead
agency.
While the study is a Class III (Phase 1) assessment a limited amount of subsurface
testing was done for one significant archaeological site (CA-RIV-7394) to determine its
geographic extent.
An archaeological records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern
Information Center of the California Historical Resources Information System at UC
Riverside. Within a one -mile radius, 30 cultural resources studies have been
conducted. Six of these studies have involved the project area with another six
involving portions of the project area. A total of 139 cultural resources have been
recorded within a one mile radius around and including the project area
Eighteen of these recorded sites and ten isolates have been previously recorded within
the project area. The report states five of the sites were investigated in detail due to
their significance.
An on -foot survey of the 917 acre study area was conducted including property owned
by Travertine. A 219 acre area planted in now abandoned vineyards was not
surveyed. However, they were subsequently surveyed as noted in a letter report
(supplemental to the main report) dated June 19, 2007 (Attachment 2). Also, a letter
report (supplemental to the main report) for proposed access roads 3 and 4 have been
submitted (Attachment 3). Results for both areas were negative for prehistoric and
historic -era resources.
As a result of the field survey, most of the recorded sites were relocated, with several
incorporated into one larger site. Eight previously unknown archaeological sites and
eight isolates were also identified. No historic -era resources were identified within the
survey area.
Seventeen test units (square holes 30 cm deep) were excavated at the largest
archaeological site (CA-RIV-7394) to determine the geographical extent of the site.
Results of this testing was negative for prehistoric resources.
The on -foot survey of the vineyards area did not result in the identification of any
cultural resources. Visibility was poor due to planting debris and it was noted fill dirt
had been added to the area. Additionally, on -foot survey results for the access road
areas were also negative.
Four local Native -American tribes were contacted for comment regarding their
knowledge of cultural resources in the area. The Torres -Martinez Desert Cahuilla
Indians indicated awareness of several cultural resources in close proximity to the
study area and requested a Native -American monitor be present during any monitoring.
.1...1 o i l
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\5-16-07\rpt travertine archaeo.doe
CONCLUSION:
The report notes the study area has high archaeological sensitivity and that monitoring
of any ground disturbing activities in native soil or sediments should occur throughout
the site. However, the preferred and recommended mitigation for each of these
archaeological sites is avoidance rather than destruction of them. The letter report for
the vineyards area, dated June 19, 2007 notes the proposed project has been
redesigned to avoid impacts to Site CA-RIV-7394 (a National Register eligible site), 12
additional sites, adjacent Native American trails, and a number of unevaluated
properties. Travertine Corporation will establish a planned conservation area that will
avoid these sites and include landscape elements that will form an access barrier
between the sites and the Travertine development.
The report conforms to the ARMR format for preparation of cultural resources surveys.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Minute Motion 2007- , accepting the Class III Cultural Resources Inventory
And Evaluation, including limited Subsurface Testing of Archaeological Site CA-RIV-
7394 for the Proposed Travertine Development Project, Phase I Report on Vineyards
within Section 33 of the Proposed Travertine Development Project, and Supplemental
Report on Cultural Resources Survey along Access Road 3 (Madison Street) and
Access Road 4 (Jefferson Street) for Proposed Travertine Development ProjeclI subject
to the recommended conditions in the report and following conditions:
1 . The site shall be; monitored during on- and off -site trenching and rough grading
by qualified archaeological and paleontological monitors. Proof of retention of
monitors, including a Native -American monitor shall be given to City prior to
issuance of first earth -moving or clearing permit. Monitors shall include a
minimum of one Native American monitor.
2. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Planning Department
prior to the issuance of the first production home building final inspection for
the project.
3. Collected archaeological resources shall be properly packaged for long term
curation, in polyethylene self -seal bags, vials, or film cans as appropriate, all
within acid -free, standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and
delivered to the City, unless the Native American tribes wish to have them, prior
to issuance of first building permit for the property. Materials will be
accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research
data, and the original graphics.
u.. 012
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\rpt travertine archaeo.doc
Attachments:
1. Class III Cultural Resources Inventory And Evaluation, including limited
Subsurface Testing of Archaeological Site CA-RIV-7394 for the Proposed
Travertine Development Project, prepared by SWCA Environmental Consultants
(Commissioners and Staff only)
2. Phase I Report on Vineyards within Section 33 of the Proposed Travertine
Development Project, prepared by SWCA Environmental Consultants
(Commissioners and Staff only)
3. Supplemental Report on Cultural Resources Survey along Access Road 3
(Madison Street) and Access Road 4 (Jefferson Street) for Proposed Travertine
Development Project
Prepared by:
Stan Sawa, Principal Planner
013
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BI #C
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: AUGUST 16, 2007
ITEM: PALEONTOLOGICAL EVALUATION REPORT AND MITIGATION
PLAN FOR A 3.4± ACRE SITE, ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER
770-020-012
LOCATION: NORTHEAST CORNER OF CALLE TAMPICO & DESERT CLUB
DRIVE
APPLICANT: DAN CLINE, FORWARD ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
CONSULTANT: GEORGE L. KENNEDY, Ph.D., BRIAN F. SMITH & ASSOCIATES
BACKGROUND:
The study area is a 3.4± acre site located at the northeast corner of Calle Tampico &
Desert Club Drive. The property is vacant, has been previously mass graded, and
currently has perimeter landscaping installed along the rights -of -way. There are
existing underground utility lines crossing the property and a telephone transformer is
located roughly at the center of the site. The property is bordered by Springtime Way
and the Adams Elementary School to the north, an existing commercial office center to
the east, Calle Tampico and vacant property to the south, and the Embassy Suites and
Casitas Santa Rosa to the west. This property is about 40 feet above mean sea level.
The City is currently processing an application proposing a retail commercial project
with three buildings for this location.
A Paleontological Resources Assessment has been submitted for the property. The
Assessment includes a ground survey and a review of significant finds from the area.
This Assessment, when accepted, will be part of the environmental review required by
the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project application IVUP 06-
035).
DISCUSSION:
Though a formal paleontological records search for the property was not conducted,
the consultant has provided a detailed review of the literature concerning documented
finds from the area, supported by examples of historical paleontological activity. The
consultant conducted a field survey on May 27, 2007 and reviewed the geotechnical
report prepared for the property. The consultant reviewed the boring logs and noted
that no shell material was reported from the borings and that no shell material was
observed on the surface of the subject property during the field survey.
014
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\ph 1 paleo VUP 06-035.doc
The report concludes that because the proposed site has a "high paleontological
resource sensitivity" based on the numerous fossiliferous collections obtained in the
vicinity, it recommended that periodic inspections of grading and excavation activities
be conducted during site preparations by a qualified paleontologist. If the
paleontologist does not encounter paleontological resources in the deepest grading
cuts or portions of utility trenches, then paleontological monitoring may be concluded.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Minute Motion 2007- , accepting the "Paleontological Evaluation Report
and Mitigation Plan for a 3.4 acre Parcel, City of La Quinta, Riverside County,
California," as prepared and recommended by Brian F. Smith and Associates 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, including a program of screen washing for micro invertebrate
fossils. 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. 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.
3. If the paleontologist does not encounter paleontological resources in the deepest
grading cuts or portions of utility trenches, then paleontological monitoring may
be concluded.
Attachments:
1 . Paleontological Resource and Monitoring Assessment for a 3.4 Acre Parcel, City
of La Quinta, Riverside County, California
Prepared by:
AncO4 J. Mogensen, 015
Principal Planner
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\ph 1 paleo VUP 06-035.doc
BI #D
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DATE: AUGUST 16, 2007
ITEM: PHASE I CULTURAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT FOR A 3.4±
ACRE SITE, ASSESSOR'S PARCEL NUMBER 770-020-0112
LOCATION: NORTHEAST CORNER OF CALLE TAMPICO & DESERT CLUB
DRIVE
APPLICANT: DAN CLINE, FORWARD ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN
CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (CLARENCE BODMER, DANIEL BALLESTER, & LAURA
HENSLEY SHAKER)
BACKGROUND:
The study area is a 3.4± acre site located at the northeast corner of Calle Tampico &
Desert Club Drive. The property is vacant, has been previously mass graded, and
currently has perimeter landscaping installed along the rights -of -way. There are
existing underground utility lines crossing the property and a telephone transformer is
located roughly at the center of the site. The property is bordered by Springtime Way
and the Adams Elementary School to the north, an existing commercial office center to
the east, Calle Tampico and vacant property to the south, and the Embassy Suites and
Casitas Santa Rosa to the west. The City is currently processing an application
proposing a retail commercial project with three buildings for this location.
A Phase I (survey level) Cultural Resources Assessment has been completed for the
property. The Assessment includes a record search and field survey of the property.
This Assessment will be part of the environmental review required by the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) for the project application.
DISCUSSION:
An archaeological and historic records search for the property was conducted at the
Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside. The results of the records search
indicated that a portion of the project site may have previously been surveyed and that
no archaeological sites or other cultural resources had been recorded on the property.
Within a one mile radius of the project site, the records search identified 40 other
previous studies resulting in the identification of 17 archaeological sites, 7 historic
buildings or groups of buildings, and 7 isolates. All of these identified archaeological
sites and isolates were determined to be pre -historic and Native American in nature.
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\ph 1 archaeo VUP 06-035.doc
016
A search was made of the U.S. General Land Office (GLO) records and historic maps
from the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) were reviewed. No buildings were identified
on the project site.
The on -foot field survey was conducted on October 19, 2006 by walking parallel
north -south transects spaced at ten meters apart. Ground visibility was rated as
ranging from poor to excellent (5 to 90%) visibility, with the poor rating due to
occasional pockets of dense vegetation. The results of this survey were negative for
prehistoric or historic resources older than 50 years.
The report includes a request of the Native American Heritage Commission for a check
of their Sacred Lands inventory. Nine local Native American representatives were
contacted. Two verbal responses were received. No specific sites of cultural concern
were identified in either of the responses.
The report includes a management summary, a section discussing the site's historic
and ethno-historic context, the natural setting, discussion, conclusion, and personnel
qualification appendices.
CRM TECH concluded that the proposed project will not cause a substantial adverse
change to any known historic resource, no further cultural resource investigation is
necessary, and has recommended that, should any cultural materials be unearthed, all
work in that area should be halted so that the materials can be examined and
evaluated by a qualified archaeological monitor. This property is eligible for exemption
from the California Environmental Quality Act under the in -fill development exemption
(Section 15332, Class 32) because it is less than 5 acres and has been previously
graded.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Minute Motion 2007- , accepting the "Cultural Resources Survey Report for
Assessor's Parcel Number 770-020-012 in La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as
prepared by CRM TECH, subject to the following conditions:
A. Should any cultural materials be unearthed during grading, all work in that area
should be halted so that the materials can be examined and evaluated by a
qualified archaeological monitor and the Planning Department shall be notified
immediately.
Attachments:
1. Cultural Resources Survey Report for Assessor's Parcel Number 770-020-012 in
La Quinta, Riverside County, California
M... ..
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\ph 1 archaeo VUP 06-035.doc 017
Prepared by:
An w J. Mogensen
�Ilcipal Planner
019
P:\Reports- HPC\2007\8-16-07\ph 1 archaeo VUP 06-035.doc
��
DATE:
ITEM:
LOCATION:
APPLICANT:
CONSULTANT:
BACKGROUND:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
AUGUST 16, 2007
UPDATED CULTURAL RESOURCES REPORT FOR ST. FIRANCIS
CHURCH PARKING LOT
WASHINGTON STREET, 500 FEET SOUTH OF AVENUE 47
PREST VUKSIC ARCHITECTS
CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Ph.D.)
The study area is a 29.16± acre site located on the west side of Washigton Street
about 500 feet south of Avenue 47. The vacant property is adjacent to the existing St.
Francis Catholic Church and is currently the site of a temporary grass parking lot. The
City is currently processing an application proposing a parking lot, landscaping,
retention basins, and future building pad for this location.
In 1998, a Phase I (survey level) Cultural Resources Assessment (in letter format) was
completed for the existing temporary parking lot on the subject property. The Historic
Preservation Commission recommended on December 17, 1998 to adopt the
recommendations of that report (Attachment 1).
Three prehistoric sites were uncovered during the field survey and testiing was
conducted on one of the sites due to the urgency of having the interim parking lot
prepared before the Christmas season. The testing uncovered surface artifacts but
concluded that the finds did not represent a true archaeological site because of
evidence that the artifacts uncovered were either washed or brought in over time. The
final report (Attachment 2) concluded that, due to the disturbed soils at the project's
location, no further monitoring should be required.
As the applicants are now proposing to build a permanent parking lot, landscaping,
retention basins, and future building pad on the project site, a follow up letter report
has been provided for the subject property (Attachment 3). The letter report provides a
detailed description of prior studies conducted for the project site and makes a
recommendation based upon the previous studies and findings. This Assessment will
be part of the environmental review required by the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) for the project application.
019
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8-16-07\SDP 06-860 St. Francis\ph 1 archaeo SDP 06-860.doc
DISCUSSION:
CRM TECH concluded that the existing sites have been adequately dealt with through
archaeological testing and mitigation procedures and has recommended that all
grading, grubbing, trenching, and/or other earth -moving activities be monitored by a
qualified archaeologist.
RECOMMENDATION:
Adopt Minute Motion 2007- , accepting the "Cultural Resources Survey Report for
St. Francis Church Parking Lot in La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared
by CRM TECH, subject to the following conditions:
A. The site shall be monitored during on- and off -site grading, grubbing, trenching,
and/or other earth -moving activities by a qualified archaeological monitor. Proof
of retention of monitors shall be given to the City prior to issuance of the first
earth -moving or clearing permit. The monitor shall be empowered to temporarily
halt or divert equipment to allow for City notification and analysis. The Planning
Department shall be immediately notified of any findings.
Attachments:
1. Staff Report to the Historic Preservation Commission regarding the Interim
Archaeology Report for St. Francis Church Temporary Parking Lot (1998)
2. Archaeological Testing and Mitigation Report for the Parking Lot at St. Francis
of Assisi Church in La Quinta, Riverside County, California (1999)
3. Follow -Up Letter Report regarding the St. Francis Church Parking Lot (2007)
Prepared by:
�-vyVV I/� -ser
Andrew J. Mogensen
Principal Planner
020
P:\Reports - HPC\2007\8- 1 6-07\SDP 06-860 St. Francis\ph 1 archaeo SDP 06-860.doc
ATTACHMENT #1
DATE:
ITEM:
LOCATION:
CONSULTANT:
DEVELOPER:
BACKGROUND:
HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION
STAFF REPORT
DECEMBER 17, 1998
INTERIM ARCHAEOLOGY REPORT FOR ST. FRANCIS CHURCH
TEMPORARY PARKING LOT
WEST SIDE OF WASHINGTON STREET, SOUTH OF 47T" AVENUE
AND NORTH OF 48TH AVENUE
CRM TECH, BRUCE LOVE, PH.D.
ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CHURCH
The Planning Commission, on December 8, 1998, approved a Minor Use Permit for
a temporary church parking lot located immediately south of the church, with the
condition that the Historic Preservation Commission review the interim report. The
Planning Commission requested that if there are any modifications to the conditions
of approval made by the HPC, that they be included in the final conditions of approval
for Minor Use Permit 98-104.
A Phase I archaeological survey was conducted on a vacant parcel located south of
the` existing church campus. The survey was conducted in preparation for an
expansion of the church campus. Three prehistoric sites were found during the survey
(RIV-2198, RIV-6134, and RIV-6135). Testing of the three sites has been
recommended.
One of the archaeological sites (RIV-6135) would be impacted by the proposed
parking lot. Due to the urgency of creating the parking lot for the holiday season,
testing was conducted on RIV-6135 on December 7, 1998, by CRM TECH.
Testing of the site included hand excavated units and trenching. All surface artifacts
were collected. The interim report states that the artifacts do not represent: a true
archaeological site because there is evidence of them having been washed in or
brought in over time. The area contained gravels, asphalt, and other debris indicating
that the site area did not have cultural integrity.
C: \MydatalhperptM UP98-104chu rch. wpd
.. 021
However, RIV-6134 lies adjacent to the proposed interim parking lot on the northwest
edge. A meeting of the project engineers and the archaeological consultant
determined that a proposed walkway at that location would be removed to avoid
disturbance of the site.
CONCLUSION:
Staff concurs with the interim report and its conclusions and recommendations.
The final report will be presented to the HPC when it has been received by the
Community Development Department.
RECOMMENDATION
Move to adopt a Minute Motion to accept the interim report in compliance with the
environmental review for Minor Use Permit 98- 104.
Attachment:
1 . Letter report dated December 9, 1998, CRM TECH, Bruce Love, Ph.D.
Prepared by:
t Le lid e Mouriquan , Associ e Planner
C:\Mydata\hperptM UP98-104church. wpd
Submitted by: % \
ci"',-z",
Christine di lorio, Plann g Manlager
022
1 CRM TECH
December 9, 1998
126
Barrett Road
Riverside
CA, 92507
T 909 784 3051
F 909 784 2987
Jerry Herman, Community Development Director
City of La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Re: Saint Francis of Assissi Church Parking Lot project
Dear Mr. Herman,
Lc:: �� I E�fII V/
DEC ?. J 1998
CITY OF tAgUiN?A
In October and November, 1998, CRM TECH performed a cultural resources survey on
a proposed parking lot development for the Saint Francis of Assissi Church on
Washington Street in the City of La Quinta (Love et al. 1998). As a result of that survey,
three archaeological sites were found, designated CA-RIV-2198 (a previously recorded
site), -6134, and -6135. Of these three sites, only CA-RIV-6135 would be impacted by the
"interim parking lot" proposed by the Church to be constructed prior to the upcoming
Christmas programs and services for which the installation of the parking lot: has
become an urgent need. The surface of this site, as originally recorded, contained
approximately 30 pottery sherds, five flakes of chipped stone, half a dozen fire -affected
rocks, and a light scattering of partially fired clay pieces, all lying on the surface (Love et
al. 1998:10, 12-13).
On December 7, 1998, CRM TECH performed a testing and evaluation program on Site
CA-RIV-6135 in order to determine if the site meets CEQA criteria for importance or
significance. Seven archaeological test pits were excavated, five of which went to 100
cm (3.3 feet) of depth. The other two were excavated to 40 cm and 60 cm respectively.
In addition to the test units, three backhoe trenches were excavated to a depth of two
meters (6.6 feet) in search of buried deposits. All surface artifacts were collected, test
unit and trench sidewalls were logged, and photographs were taken. The final report
with complete descriptions of methods and results is pending.
While the final report is in preparation, the conclusion of the test phase can be reported
at this time. The artifacts do not represent a true archaeological site because they show
evidence of having been washed in or hauled in over time. All artifacts were found
either on the surface or within the top 20 cros (8 inches) of the test units. Geologic
profiling of the units and trenches showed that the soil containing artifacts is highly
disturbed and is not the original soil of that location. It contains gravel, bits of asphalt,
1
023
and other debris indicating it had been transported to the site during past episodes of
flooding and/or hauling of fill dirt. The artifacts probably originated from the direction
of the major archaeological deposits known to exist closer to the intersection of
Highway 111 and Washington Street.
As a result, CRM TECH recommends to the City of La Quinta, Lead Agency for the
project, that Site CA-RIV-6135 does not meet CEQA criteria for importance and
therefore construction of the proposed "interim parking lot" will have "no effect" on
cultural resources.
It should be noted however, that another site recorded during the survey phase (CA-
RIV-6134), which has not yet been tested, lies adjacent to the "interim parkin; lot" on
the northwest edge of the project, and that during a meeting with Robert Ross; of Robert
Bein, William Frost and Associates and Betty Williams of Oliphant and Williams
Associates, it was agreed that a proposed walkway at that location would be removed
from the project plans in order to avoid said archaeological site. CRM TECH
recommends that the final design of the "interim parking lot" be reviewed to assure
that the untested recorded site is protected from disturbances.
Sincerely,
6-A
Bruce Love, Principal
CRM TECH
References:
Love, Bruce, Tom Tang, and Harry Quinn
1998 Cultural Resources Report, St. Francis of Assissi Church Parking Lot Site, City of
La Quinta, Riverside County, California. Ms. on file at Eastern Information Center,
University of California, Riverside.
„ 024
N
Attachment 3
\\; CRM TECH
J 4472 Oran(�,e Street
Riverside, CA 92501
April 25, 2007
John Vuksic
Prest Vuksic Architects
44530 San Pablo Avenue, Suite 200
Palm Desert, CA 92260
RE: St. Francis Parking Lot
To Whom It Concerns:
In October and November, 1998, CRM TECH performed a cultural resources study on the
proposed site of a parking lot to be constructed at the St. Francis of Assisi Church, City of La
Quinta, Riverside County, California. The project site consisted of 29.16 acres of undeveloped
land in the northeast quarter of the southwest quarter of Section 30, T5S R7E, San Bernardino
Base Meridian, as depicted in the USGS La Quinta, Calif., 7.5' quadrangle (see Fig. 1).
For that study, CRM TECH conducted a historical/archaeological resources records search, a
historical background review, and an intensive field survey of the project area. During the
course of the study, three prehistoric—i.e., Native American —archaeological sites, CA-RIV-
2198, -6134, and -6135, were encountered within the project area. Among these, it was found
that Site CA-RIV-2198 had been tested in 1991 and was determined not to meet CEQA criteria
for importance. The significance of CA-RIV-6134 and -6135, however, could not be determined
properly without further investigation. Therefore, CRM TECH recommended that an
archaeological testing program be completed on the latter two sites in order to determine the
extent and nature of the archaeological remains.
Later, between December, 1998, and August,1999, CRM TECH performed a combined
archaeological testing and mitigation program on Site CA-RIV-6135, a Native American
archaeological site, located in the project area of the proposed parking lot at St. Francis of Assisi
Church on Washington Street, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California.
Results of the archaeological procedures conducted on the Site CA-RIV-6135 indicated that the
artifacts did not represent a true archaeological site because the evidence indicated that they
had been washed in or hauled in over time. As a result, CRM TECH recommended to the City
of La Quinta the conclusion that Site CA-RIV-6135 did not meet CEQA criteria for a "historical
resource."
Finally, between March and June, 2001, CRM TECH performed an archaeological testing and
mitigation program on Site CA-RIV-6134, also located on the grounds of the St. Francis of Assisi
Church at 47-225 Washington Street. The results of the archaeological procedures conducted on
this site indicated that it qualified as a "historical resource," as defined by CEQA, due to the
important archaeological information it yielded during that study. However, the proposed
project's potential effects to the component of the site known to be significant was adequately
mitigated through data recovery, which had been accomplished during that study.
Tel: 951 794 3051 Fax: 951784 2987 Cell: 909 376 7843
�...' 025
Thus, based on the results of the findings of these studies, CRM TECH recommended that the
City of La Quinta may reach a determination that the project's effects on cultural resources were
either non-existent (in the case of Sites CA-RIV-2198 and -6135, which were determined to not
qualify as historical resources) or had been reduced to levels less than significant by data
recovery (in the case of Site CA-RIV-6134). However, due to the possibility of undetected
subsurface archaeological deposits occurring in the vicinity, CRM TECH further recommended
that all grading, grubbing, trenching, and/or other earth -moving activities associated with the
proposed project be monitoring by a qualified archaeologist.
Figure 2 shows the location of the sites that have been adequately dealt with through
archaeological testing and mitigation procedures. Note that the studies discussed in this letter
only cover the project area shown in Figures 1 and 2 and do not include areas not covered by
those studies. Also note that CRM TECH recommended that all earth -moving activities within
the project area be monitored by a qualified archaeologist.
Feel free to contact me if you have any questions or need additional information.
Cordially,
TMiel Hogan, h.D., RI'A
Principal
CRM TECH
CRM TECH reports discussed in this letter:
Survey report:
Love, Bruce, Bai "Tom" Tang, and Harry M. Quinn
1998 Cultural Resources Report: St. Francis of Assisi Church Parking Lot Site, City of La
Quinta, Riverside County, California. Report on file, Eastern Information Center, University
of California, Riverside.
Report on the archaeological testing and mitigation program on Site CA-RIV-6135:
Love, Bruce, Michael Hogan, Harry M. Quinn, and Kathryn Wright Bouscaren
1999 Archaeological Testing and Mitigation Report: Parking Lot at St. Francis of Assisi
Church, City of La Quinta, Riverside California, California. Report on file, Eastern
Information Center, University of California, Riverside.
Report on the archaeological testing and mitigation program on Site CA-RIV-6134:
Love, Bruce, Harry M. Quinn, and Mariam Dandul
2001 Archaeological Testing And Mitigation Report: Site CA-RIV-6134, St. Francis of
Assisi Church Property, City of La Quinta, Riverside County. Report on file, Eastern
Information Center, University of California, Riverside.
M 026
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Figure 1. 1998 project area (Based on USGS La Quinta, Calif., 1:24,000 quadrangle [USGS 19801)
2
" 027
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Figure 2. Locations of archaeological sites in the St. Francis of Assisi project area.
4
028