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2009 01 29 HPCHistoric Preservation Commission Agendas are now available on the City's Web Page @ www.la-auinta.orq HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION AG EN DA The Regular Meeting to be held in the Study Session Room at the La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California JANUARY 29, 2009 3:00 P.M. Beginning Minute Motion 2009-001 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 December 18, 2008. Historic Preservation Commission Agenda V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Historical/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for the Dune Palms Specific Plan Applicant: La Quinta Redevelopment Agency Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan, Principal) Location: South Side of Highway 111, Approximately 350 Feet East of Dune Palms Road. B. Phase I Historical/Archaeological Resources Surveys Report for the Travertine Acquisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta Applicant: Shea Homes, Inc. Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan and Bai "Tom" Tang, Principals) Location: On the East Side of the CVWD Dike #4 between Avenue 60 and Avenue 62. C. Phase II Cultural Resource Testing and Evaluation of CA-RIV-1339 The Travertine Project Tract 35996 Applicant: Shea Homes, Inc. Consultant: Michael Brandman Associates (Michael Dice, Principal Investigator) Location: On the East Side of the CVWD Dike #4 between Avenue 60 and Avenue 62 D. Paleontological Resources Assessment Resort for The Travertine Acauisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta Applicant: Shea Homes, Inc. Consultant: CRM TECH (Michael Hogan and Bai "Tom" Tang, Principals) Location: On the East Side of the CVWD Dike #4 between Avenue 60 and Avenue 62 VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS A. Attendance Update Vill. PLANNING STAFF ITEM A. Update on curation of City artifacts B. Quarterly Attendance Report IX. ADJOURNMENT P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\AGENDA.doc Historic Preservation Commission Agenda DECLARATION OF POSTING I, Carolyn Walker, Executive Secretary of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that the foregoing agenda for the La Quinta Historic Preservation Commission meeting of Thursday, January 29, 2009, 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, January 9, 2009. DATED: January 23, 2009 CAROLY WALKER, Executive Secretary City of La Quinta, California P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\AGENDA.doc MINUTES HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION MEETING A Regular meeting held in the Study Session Room at the La Quinta City Hall 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA December 18, 2008 This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was called to order by Chairwoman Puente at 3:04 p.m. who asked for the roll call. CALL TO ORDER A. Roll Call. Present: Commissioners Sharp, Wilbur, and Chairwoman Puente Absent: Commissioners Redmon and Wright Staff Present: Planning Director Les Johnson, Planning Manager David Sawyer, Principal Planner Stan Sawa, and Executive Secretary Carolyn Walker. II. PUBLIC COMMENT: None III, CONFIRMATION OF THE AGENDA: Confirmed IV. CONSENT CALENDAR: A. It was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilbur/Sharp to approve the minutes of November 20, 2008, as submitted. Unanimously approved. V. BUSINESS ITEMS: A. Discussion on Historic Preservation Tour Brochure. Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report, a copy of which is on file in the Planning Department. Commissioner Puente asked if a specific budget amount had been identified for work on the brochure. Planning Manager Sawyer said there was no specific budget. He suggested the amount would be PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 approximately the same as the cost of the (Bike Map) brochure provided to the Commissioners; since the Historic Tour brochure would look very similar. Staff also provided the City's Art Map to the Commissioners. Chairwoman Puente suggested there be a listing of the City's main historical resources with a small narrative explaining the history of the site. Commissioner Sharp asked if she meant this was to be included on the map. She replied yes. She added there should be some historical bullets which could include the description of the site, year built, and historical highlights. Commissioner Sharp suggested each brochure be printed in a different color for easy identification. Chairwoman Puente suggested they use the same map as the other brochures, but include a walking tour map which could possibly highlight other areas, such as Old Town. This would give the brochure multiple uses. Principal Planner Sawa said if there were enough locations, within a specified area, it might be possible to include a small map in the brochure. Commissioner Sharp suggested that might make the map too complex. He felt it should be kept very simple. Commissioner Wilber commented there really isn't a significant number of sites, and the Commission should think carefully of what should be of interest for historic content. Staff suggested the La Quinta Resort might be one of the sites to be considered. Commissioner Sharp commented on some previous Native American towns. Staff suggested the Commissioners might want to discuss whether there should be the addition of sites which no longer exist. Planning Manager Sawyer noted whether the purpose of the map is for either a walking tour or a driving tour. There wouldn't be a reason for including non-existent sites. PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 2 Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 Commissioner Wilber asked if staff knew the number of possible sites. Staff said the number would be less than shown on the bike map; possibly ten to fifteen sites. Planning Manager Sawyer referenced the La Quinta Resort and asked if the Commission wished to highlight the various elements, or the Resort as a whole. Discussion followed on the pros and cons of both approaches. Commissioner Sharp commented on the Hacienda del Gato and sites which are inaccessible. Staff suggested those types of sites could be included as list with a description and photo. Commissioner Wilbur suggested adding the Museum. Staff also suggested the veterinarian building which was a former lumberyard. Staff recapped the Commissioner's requests to add the La Quinta Resort, the Museum, the lumberyard (veterinary/residence), and the La Quinta Realty building. Chairwoman Puente suggested including Point Happy, but the comment was made that there wasn't really anything left of the original ranch. Staff suggested photos of former historical sites could be included, if there was space available. Commissioner Sharp commented about the trails that went back over the mountains, used by the Native Americans to obtain water from Indian Wells. He wanted to know if those types of features should be included as they were of great interest to him. Staff said they would research the information on the trails. Planning Manager Sawyer said if it was a feature that someone could actually go to and see, it should be considered. He gave the example of Point Happy if the trail could be identified and visualized it could be considered. Commissioner Sharp was just concerned that it be made known there was a Native American presence in the community, not just development. Chairwoman Puente added there were also Hispanic elements to the City's history. Commissioner Sharp added the Bradshaw Trail went through the Point Happy area. Staff said it would be possible to describe the portion that went through La Quinta. PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 3 Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 Commissioner Wilbur asked about the possibility of including homes in the Cove Area. Staff said that was a possibility. Commissioner Sharp asked about something called a "submarine" building. Staff explained what it was and how it was built; that it was basically a metal half -dome, canvas -lined building with water running down the sides to act as the building's air conditioning. Commissioner Wilbur asked about any references to General Patton or other famous people who have lived, or stayed, in La Quinta. Staff said possibly, in the Resort description, they could include a few people who have stayed there. Planning Manager Sawyer asked how far back the Commission wanted to go; using the example of the fish traps and geological aspects, such as the waterline. The Commissioners said that was a very interesting site and thought it should be included. Chairwoman Puente suggested there could be mention of the Native American tribes in the area. Staff said a paragraph could be added describing the tribes. There was general discussion as to whether there was anything historical left at the Fritz Burns Park; with particular reference to the Desert Club, and it was decided to leave it out. Staff commented on the restaurant building (El Ranchito) on Calle Estado and the Commission agreed it should be added. Planning Manager Sawyer said they will take the information given to them and rough out a first draft. Chairwoman Puente asked if the draft could be prepared for the next meeting. Staff said it would probably not be available until the February meeting. Commissioner Sharp said he liked the format of the map and suggested the maps should be available at the Museum. Commissioner Wilbur asked if the mural at the Museum had been completed. Staff did not know but would find out and report back at the next meeting. P:\Reports- HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 4 Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 Chairwoman Puente asked if the draft would be in the same format as the bike map. Staff said they would do a "rough" mock up for the Commissioners to look at. Commissioner Wilbur said Commissioners Redmon and Wright would probably have additional comments which would change the map. There was no further comment and it was agreed staff would prepare a draft of the map for the Commission to review at a future meeting. B. City Historic Context Statement Review Principal Planner Stan Sawa presented the information contained in the staff report a copy of which is on file in the Planning Department. Planning Manager Sawyer explained the process for preparation, finalization, and approval of the Historic Context Statement. Commissioner Wilbur asked what happens to the documents once they are approved. Staff explained it would be included in the 2009 CLG report. Commissioner Sharp said he thought the Context Statement would be a very interesting item to be available at the La Quinta Hotel. Staff responded it would be available at the local library. Commissioner Wilbur said the bibliography section did not identify the first Context Statement. Staff said the previous Historic Context Statement was never approved. The document they were currently discussing would be the first completed Context Statement to be finalized and approved. Commissioner Sharp commented on some of the texts referenced in the bibliography and the fact that he was unable to locate some of the books/references. Staff said some of the books, articles referred to are no longer available. Commissioner Sharp commented on the small amount of original casitas built because it said in the original text there were only six. There was discussion about when, and how many, original casitas were built. Staff gave some background on the hotel and its casitas. P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 5 Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 Commissioner Sharp commented on a layout he did on the Desert Club for the La Quinta Museum. He said the architecture of the Desert Club was high -art -deco, it was "steamboat modern". Staff explained the original home development concept had the museum building as the sales office; and the lumberyard building's downstairs area was administration, and upstairs contained the living quarters. Those were built along with a number of cove casitas. The Desert Club was built later partly as an amenity to the cove casitas' owners. The cove development was done separately from the La Quinta (Resort) Hotel. Commissioner Wilbur suggested the following amendments: Page 61, last paragraph - Whiie Many of the buildings have experienced seine modification over the decades (addit+eaS, FepaiFc alto atie s). Many of the buildings retain integrity of form, design, and materials. On Page 62, first paragraph — The original residences in the Cove are related by age and design and appeaF possibly may be eligible for designation as a City of La Quinta Historic District. Commissioner Sharp commented on an item on Page 51, where it talks about Mr. Kiner being married to an actress. He said it was not beneficial to have partial information. It would be better to remove the information if it is not complete. Planning Manager Sawyer said this was not written as a book, and still needed clarification in some areas. He commented on 1) Page 52, and a paragraph discussing the subdivision process and, ,2) Page 54 and a discussion of the La Quinta Hotel grounds. He said there was also a reference to a home on Avenida Obregon but the Statement doesn't list why that home was significant. He wanted to let the Commissioner's know that staff would further refine and make changes, on the Statement, then bring it back in a more finished format for the Commissioners' final comments. There being no further comments Commissioners agreed with staff's suggestions to finalize the Statement and bring it back to them for comment. PAReports- HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 6 Historic Preservation Commission December 18, 2008 VI. CORRESPONDENCE AND WRITTEN MATERIAL: There was discussion about the Mayor's letter which went to the Historic Preservation Conference organizers, welcoming them to the area during their Conference. Staff said a copy of the letter would be e-mailed to the Commissioners. VII. COMMISSIONER ITEMS Chairwoman Puente asked if the Commissioners would be receiving tickets to the Bob Hope Golf Classic. Staff said they would look into it and report back. Chairwoman Puente read an article, from the La Quinta Sun which included former HPC Commissioner, Barbara Irwin, leading a tour at the La Quinta Hotel. Vill. PLANNING STAFF ITEMS: None X. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners Wilbur/Sharp to adjourn this Meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission to the next Regular Meeting to be held on January 15, 2009. This meeting of the Historic Preservation Commission was adjourned at 3:49 p.m. Unanimously approved. Submitted by: Carolyn Walker Executive Secretary P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC_Draft_Min_12-18-08.doc 7 DATE: ITEM: LOCATION: APPLICANT: CONSULTANT: BACKGROUND: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT JANUARY 29, 2009 HISTORICAL/ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT FOR THE DUNE PALMS SPECIFIC PLAN SOUTH SIDE OF HIGHWAY 111, APPROXIMATELY 350 FEET EAST OF DUNE PALMS ROAD LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, PRINCIPAL) The study area is a 20± acre site located on the south side of Highway 111, approximately 350 feet east of Dune Palms Road. The property is vacant except for some sparse native desert vegetation. The northeast corner of the property contains some concrete pads, fencing, and asphalt roads that were part of a trailer park that existed on the site until recently. The property is proposed to be developed with 10 acres of auto related commercial along Highway 111 with the balance to be a multi -family complex with up to 200 residential units. A Phase I (survey level) Archaeological/Historical Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search, historical background, 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 application. The property sits at an elevation ranging from 55 to 60 feet above sea level. This would be above the highest shoreline of the ancient Lake Cahuilla which was at 42 feet above sea level. The site would have provided a favorable setting for Native American habitation during the last high stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla. DISCUSSION: An archaeological and historic records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside. Additional historic background research was conducted by reviewing archival records of the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) and historic maps of the Coachella Valley region. The records search indicated the portions of the study area have been included in five previous cultural resources surveys. As a result of these surveys, a prehistoric site was foulnd P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\Dune Palms ph 1 archeo rpt.doc approximately 30 feet west of the project site. The prehistoric site consisted of lithic flakes, burned and unburned animal bone, a mano fragment, an Olivella shell bead, and a small quantity of cremated prehistoric human remains. Further testing of that site found it to be significant because it dated back to a time somewhere between 1000 and 2000+ years ago. It is possible that subsurface components of that site could extend into this project site. No other cultural resources were found during previous surveys within or adjacent to the project site. Within one mile of the site the records search showed at least 80 previous cultural resource surveys, resulting in 100+ archaeological sites, 13 historic -era buildings, and 17 isolates (localities with fewer than three artifacts) being found. None of these sites or isolates was found in the immediate vicinity of the project area, but at least 20 of the previously recorded sites were within one -quarter mile of the project area highlighting the sensitivity of the area. No cultural resources or other objects more than 50 years of age were identified during the field survey of the project area. Much of the project area has been impacted by previous construction and agricultural activities. A request was made of the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC) for a check of their Sacred Lands file. They did not identify any Native American cultural resources in the vicinity of the project area. Eleven Native American representatives were contacted as identified by the NAHC. Three additional local Native American representatives were contacted. One response was received, with a request that any monitoring crew include a Native American archaeological monitor during earth -moving activities and that any discovery of native American remains or artifacts be treated as required by law. The report concludes that although no "historic resources" were encountered during the course of the study, the project location is part of an area that is highly sensitive for prehistoric cultural remains. The area has one of the densest clusters of archaeological sites in Riverside County. The prehistoric site discussed in this report (CAL-RIV 33-7839) just to the west of the project area is considered significant because it is one of the few confirmed Archaic Period (1000-2000 + years old) sites in the Coachella Valley and it has a relatively diverse artifact collection and fire -affected features. The presence of cremated human remains at that site also adds to the sensitivity of the area. It is possible that similar buried artifacts or features may exist on the project site. Therefore, CRM TECH recommends monitoring during grading and trenching operations. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2009- accepting the "Historic/Archaeological Resources Survey Report La Quinta Redevelopment Agency Dune Palms Specific Plan, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared by CRM TECH subject to the following conditions: 2 P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-15-09\Dune Palms ph 1 archeo rpt.doc 1. The project site shall be monitored during on- and off -site grubbing, trenching and rough grading by qualified archaeological monitors, including a Native - American. 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 upon the discovery of cultural resources to allow for City notification and analysis. 2. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the project. 3. Collected archaeological resources shall be properly packaged for long term curation, in polyethylene self -seal bags, vials, or film cans as appropriate, all within acid -free, standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and delivered to the City Planning department 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. 5. If prehistoric or historic resources are discovered during monitoring or the subsequent construction phase, the Planning Department shall be notified immediately. 6. All recommendations of CRM TECH as noted it their report shall be met. Attachment: 1. Historic/Archaeological Resources Survey Report, La Quinta Redevelopment Agency, Dune Palms Specific Plan, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California Prepared by: Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 3 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-15-09\Dune Palms ph 1 archeo rpt.doc HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: JANUARY 29, 2009 ITEM: PHASE I HISTORICAL/ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES SURVEY REPORT FOR THE TRAVERTINE ACQUISITION FOR SHEA HOMES TRILOGY AT LA QUINTA LOCATION: ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE CVWD DIKE #4 BETWEEN AVENUE 60 AND AVENUE 62 APPLICANT: SHEA HOMES, INC. CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN AND BAI "TOM" TANG, PRINCIPALS) BACKGROUND: The study area is a 9 acre parcel located in the southeast area of the city immediately west of and adjacent to Trilogy at La Quinta. The west boundary of the site is adjacent to a Coachella Valley Water District dike that keeps storm water runoff off of the subject and surrounding properties. The property is relatively level, undeveloped or used and occupied by scattered native shrubs and bushes. The City is currently processing an Environmental Assessment application to allow grading on this property. The property will eventually become part of the adjacent Trilogy residential project. A Phase I (survey level) Archaeological/Historical Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search, historical background, 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 and historic records search for the property was conducted at the Eastern Information Center located at UC Riverside. Additional maps and records were also researched. The records search indicated the study area has been included in at least two previous cultural resources surveys and prehistoric archaeological Site 33- 001339 (CA-RIV-1339) had been recorded within the study area in 1972 by Philip Wilke. The site was recorded as a surface scatter of ceramic sherds, with at least three sherd clusters representing possible cooking areas or cremations, in addition, several burn spots on the ground may be the remains of burned structures. ]On \P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt ph I archaeo shea.doc properties adjacent to the north and east of this property, prehistoric sites have been found. The prehistoric site to the east included one human cremation buried at 8.5 feet and estimated to be at least 2,500 years old. Within one mile of the site the records search showed at least 27 previous cultural resource surveys, resulting in 47 archaeological sites, three historic -era sites, and 63 isolated artifacts. A request was made of the Native American Heritage Commission for a check of their Sacred Lands file. Twelve Native American representatives were contacted. Two responses were received, with requests that any monitoring crew include a Native American archaeological monitor during earth -moving activities and that any discovery of native American remains or artifacts be treated as required by law. During the field survey, a sparse scatter of prehistoric artifacts was found in the northern portion of the project site. Based upon the artifact types and location, the report states they appear to belong to the larger assemblage of artifacts recorded in 1972. Wind-blown sand and looting may account for not all of the 1972 artifacts being relocated. The collection of artifacts from 1972 has not been analyzed and a report of the findings, including an evaluation of the sites significance has not been produced. The report notes that previous studies in the vicinity have found subsurface prehistoric materials, including a human cremation dating back at least 2,500 years. CONCLUSION: The report notes that Site 33-001339 (CA-RIV-1339), a previously recorded prehistoric archaeological site lies within the project area and is likely to be impacted by the proposed project. To determine whether this site qualifies as a historic resource under CEQA provisions, additional archaeological testing is recommended by CRM TECH. The report recommends what the minimum testing and evaluation should consist of. Generally, it consists of surface collection, subsurface excavations and subsequent laboratory analysis of any artifacts found. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2009- , accepting the "Historic/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for the Travertine Acquisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared by CRM TECH and subject to the recommendations contained in the report for a testing and evaluation program. 2 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt ph I archaeo shea.doc Attachment: Historic/Archaeological Resources Survey Report for the Travertine Acquisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California Prepared by: 'GGA" Stan Sawa, Principal Planner PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt ph I archaeo shea.doc BI # C DATE: ITEM: LOCATION: APPLICANT: CONSULTANT: BACKGROUND: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT JANUARY 29, 2009 PHASE II CULTURAL RESOURCE TESTING AND EVALUATION OF CA-RIV- 1339 THE TRAVERTINE PROJECT TRACT #35996 ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE CVWD DIKE #4 BETWEEN AVENUE 60 AND AVENUE 62 SHEA HOMES, INC. MICHAEL BRANDMAN ASSOCIATES (MICHAEL DICE, PRINCIPAL INVESTIGATOR) The study area is a 9 acre parcel located in the southeast area of the city immediately west of and adjacent to Trilogy at La Quinta. The west boundary of the site is adjacent to a Coachella Valley Water District dike that keeps storm water runoff off of the subject and surrounding properties. The property is relatively level, undeveloped or used and occupied by scattered native shrubs and bushes. The City is currently processing an Environmental Assessment application to allow grading on this property. The property will eventually become part of the adjacent Trilogy project. A Phase II testing and evaluation assessment has been completed for the property. This has been completed because the Phase I assessment prepared by CRM TECH found a cultural resources site (CA-RIV-1339) on the property that required additional testing to determine if the site qualifies as a historic resource under CEQA provisions. DISCUSSION: The site (CA-RIV-1339) consists of an irregular shape in the area of the center of the nine acre property (Exhibit 3 in report). Testing consisted primarily of excavation of 2 x 2m test units in seemingly productive areas of excavated in 10 cm thick levels until the strata is sterile (lacking in artifacts). Shovel strippings or scrapes were used to excavate the test units. The areas to be excavated as part of the testing process were defined by the density of artifacts collected during the surface collection phase. The densest areas were excavated first, and additional units were added to the area around those units. 1 P:\Reports - HPC\2009\ 1 -29-09\rpt ph 11 archaeo shea.doc The surface collection resulted in 53 potsherds, three rimsherds, two possible metate fragments, one possibly purposefully rounded ceremonial stone, a pecked and polished stone, a sample of pumice, and a sample of bivalves (shells). Subsurface testing resulted in 313 potsherds, 19 rimsherds, five charcoal samples, one stone flake, and four projective points. A possible groundstone, handstone, a worked stone, a pestle, and a possible polishing stone were also located. Four piles or oval clusters of granite rock were uncovered and likely were hearths for boiling water to cook the shells. This is where two of the charcoal samples were collected. The carbon dating estimated the range of the samples from 1520 to 1950, indicating there probably was some modern use of the area. No other artifacts were found around these features. During the Phase II walk -over of CA-RIV-1339, just outside of the south project boundary a set of cremated human remains was discovered. It was determined to be Native American remains. The Torres Martinez tribe arrived and blessed the remains and proceedings. Because it is off -site, it has not been disturbed or removed. CONCLUSION: The ceramic artifacts, according to Michael Brandman Associates (MBA), are the most significant aspect of the site. MBA recommends that additional research on the ceramic artifacts take place so that a better understanding of the pottery types can be achieved. Based on the findings, the site was occupied in the late 1500s to perhaps mid 1600s during the Patayan II or Patayan III period. The report concludes the site likely represents a short term temporary encampment where mussels were collected from the nearby ancient Lake Cahuilla and cooked. MBA recommends the off -site cremation site be protected in place during all grading or construction. If it cannot be protected, MBA recommends it be mitigated. The Torres Martinez tribe has requested that all artifacts and samples collected be given to the tribe upon conclusion of the analysis. MBA concludes that the site should not be considered significant under CEQA Guidelines and therefore permit processing may proceed. However, they do recommend five mitigation measures, including monitoring during grading and including Native American monitors (Page 29 of the report). Staff feels these measures are appropriate in this case. 2 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt ph 11 archaeo shea.doc RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2009- , accepting the "Phase II Cultural Resource Testing and Evaluation of CA-RIV-1339 The Travertine Project Tract #35996 City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared by Michael Brandman Associates and subject to the following standard conditions: 1. The site shall be monitored during on- and off -site trenching and rough grading by qualified archaeological monitors, including a Native -American 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. 2. The final report on the monitoring shall be submitted to the Planning Department prior to the issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy for the project. 3. Collected archaeological resources shall be properly packaged for long term curation, in polyethylene self -seal bags, vials, or film cans as appropriate, all within acid -free, standard size, comprehensively labeled archive boxes and delivered to the City prior to issuance of Certificate of Occupancy for the property. Materials shall be accompanied by descriptive catalogue, field notes and records, primary research data, and the original graphics. 4. - If prehistoric or historic resources are discovered during monitoring or the subsequent construction phase, the Planning Department shall be notified immediately. Attachment: 1. Phase II Cultural Resource Testing and Evaluation of CA-RIV-1339, The Travertine Project Tract #35996, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California Prepared by: 4;;�hGWn -54U-14 Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 3 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt ph 11 archaeo shea.doc BI#D HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION STAFF REPORT DATE: JANUARY 29, 2009 ITEM: PALEONTOLOGICAL RESOURCES ASSESSMENT REPORT FOR THE TRAVERTINE ACQUISITION FOR SHEA HOMES TRILOGY AT LA QUINTA LOCATION: ON THE EAST SIDE OF THE CVWD DIKE #4 BETWEEN AVENUE 60 AND AVENUE 62 APPLICANT: SHEA HOMES, INC. CONSULTANT: CRM TECH (MICHAEL HOGAN, AND BAI TANG, PRINCIPALS) BACKGROUND: The study area is a 9 acre parcel located in the southeast area of the city immediately west of and adjacent to Trilogy at La Quinta. The west boundary of the site is adjacent to a Coachella Valley Water District dike that keeps storm water runoff off of the subject and surrounding properties. The property is relatively level, undeveloped or used and occupied by scattered native shrubs and bushes. The property sits at approximately 30 feet below sea level and would have been underwater during the last high stand of ancient Lake Cahuilla. The City is currently processing an Environmental Assessment application to allow grading on this property. The property will eventually become part of the adjacent Trilogy residential project. A Phase I (survey level) Paleontological Resources Assessment has been completed for the property. The Assessment includes a record search and field inspection 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: A paleontological records search for the property was conducted at the Regional Paleontologic Locality Inventory located at the San Bernardino County Museum in Redlands and the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County in Los Angeles. The records search indicated that no paleontological localities (resources) have been recorded on or adjacent to the site. 1 P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt paleo shea.doc Several paleontological sites have been identified in the area of the project site in similar soil sediment. The project site is considered to be in an area moderate to high in potential for Holocene -age invertebrate fossils. An on -foot field survey was conducted and some local freshwater shells were encountered on the surface. Visibility was excellent over the site, but there was some soil disturbance along the north and east boundaries, probably due to Trilogy construction, and along the west side due to the dike construction. CONCLUSION: The area has a high potential for paleontological resources that could be impacted by the proposed project. CRM TECH in their report recommends that monitoring be done for all earth moving operations to mitigate these impacts. RECOMMENDATION: Adopt Minute Motion 2009- , accepting the "Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for Travertine Acquisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California", as prepared by CRM TECH, subject to the following conditions: A. The on- and off -site excavation, grading, trenching, etc. of areas identified as likely to contain paleontological resources as noted in the report, i.e., the undisturbed Lake Cahuilla beds, shall be monitored by a qualified paleontological monitor. If shells are present on the surface, a sample shall be collected prior to any earth -moving operations on the property, such as grubbing or surface grading. Additional bulk soil samples shall be taken from various depths during grading. All soil samples need to be wet screen processed with the specimens identified and curated with the City. Monitoring shall be restricted to the underlying lakebed settlements conductive to the preservation of fossils which might be present just below the surface. The monitor shall be prepared to quickly salvage fossils as they are unearthed to avoid construction delays. The monitor shall also remove samples of sediments that are likely to contain the remains of small fossil invertebrates and vertebrates. The monitor shall be empowered to temporarily halt or divert equipment to allow removal of abundant or large specimens. Proof that a monitor has been retained shall be given to City prior to issuance of first earth -moving permit, or before any clearing of the site is begun. B. Collected samples of settlements shall be washed to recover small invertebrates and vertebrate fossils. Recovered specimens shall be prepared so they can be identified and permanently preserved. 2 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt paleo shea.doc C. Specimens shall be identified, and given to the City for curation. D. A report of findings including an itemized inventory of recovered specimens shall be prepared upon completion of the steps outlined above and submitted to the City prior to the first occupancy of a residence in the project being granted by the City. The report shall include pertinent discussions of the significance of all recovered resources. The report and inventory, when submitted will signify completion of the program to mitigate impacts to paleontological resources. Attachment: 1. Paleontological Resources Assessment Report for The Travertine Acquisition for Shea Homes Trilogy at La Quinta, City of La Quinta, Riverside County, California, (Commissioners only) Prepared by: -- �G�1n1'Tti Stan Sawa, Principal Planner 3 PAReports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\rpt paleo shea.doc PI # A T4ty'4"4Qd"fw MEMORANDUM TO: HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION FROM: LES JOHNSON, PLANNING DIRECTO� SUBJECT: CURATION OF CITY ARTIFACTS DATE: JANUARY 29, 2009 The City's artifacts were previously stored in several locations and were not inventoried and documented in one central location. The Planning Department staff will now be overseeing the curation and documentation of all City artifacts in an air conditioned, secure location. Items previously held at consultants' offices will now be maintained at the City of La Quinta. The staff of the Community Services Department and the City's Museum are in agreement with these changes. Tit!t 4 4 Qum& PI#B MEMORANDUM TO: MEMBERS OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION FROM: LES JOHNSON, PLANNING DIRECTO DATE: JANUARY 29, 2009 SUBJECT: MEMBER ABSENCES A memo, regarding Member absences, was previously distributed to you on May 23, 2008. This memo is just a reminder that all members of Commissions and Committees need to be aware of the City's policy on absences. Listed below is the applicable Code section. The La Quinta Municipal Code, Section 2.06.020(B) states: Any member of a board or commission of this city may be removed from office at any time, with or without cause, by a majority vote of the city council. if a member absents him or herself from two consecutive regular meetings, or absents him or herself from a total of three scheduled meetings within any fiscal year, his or her office shall become vacant and shall be filled as any other vacancy. A board or commission member may request advance permission from the city council to be absent at one or more regular meetings due to extenuating circumstances, and/or may request the city council to excuse an absence after -the -fact where such extenuating circumstances prevented the member from seeking advance permission to be absent. if such permission or excuse is granted by the city council, the absence shall not be counted toward the above -stated limitations on absences. To avoid problems, if you are unable to attend a meeting, please provide us with a letter "seeking advance permission" for your absence. We will forward it to Administration for the Council's review. Keep in mind you must attend a meeting even if you have to be recused due to conflict of interest. You can re -join the meeting after the item has been heard. If you have any questions, or need clarification of this policy, please call me at 760-777- 7125. P:\Reports - HPC\2009\1-29-09\HPC Absence Comm. Memo.doc