2022 03 08 PC
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 1 of 5 MARCH 8, 2022
PLANNING COMMISSION
AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, MARCH 8, 2022, AT 5:00 P.M.
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SPECIAL NOTICE
Teleconferencing and Telephonic Accessibility In Effect
Pursuant to Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-08-21 executed by the Governor of
California, and subsequently Assembly Bill 361 (AB 361, 2021), enacted in response
to the state of emergency relating to novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)
and enabling teleconferencing accommodations by suspending or waiving specified
provisions in the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.), members
of the public, Planning Commission, the City Attorney, City Staff, and City
Consultants may participate in this meeting by teleconference.
Members of the public may listen to this meeting by tuning-in live via
http://laquinta.12milesout.com/video/live.
Members of the public wanting to address the Planning Commission, either for
a specific agenda item or matters not on the agenda, are requested to follow the
instructions listed below:
Written public comments – can be provided in-person during the meeting or
emailed to the Planning Commission Secretary, Tania Flores, at
TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov, preferably before 3:00 p.m. on the day of the
meeting, and will be distributed to the Planning Commission and incorporated into
the agenda packet and public record of the meeting, but will not be read during the
meeting unless, upon the request of the Chairperson, a brief summary of any public
comment is asked to be read, to the extent that the Commission Secretary can
accommodate such request.
Planning Commission agendas and
staff reports are now available on the
City’s web page: www.LaQuintaCA.Gov
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 2 of 5 MARCH 8, 2022
If emailed, the mail subject line must clearly state “Written Comments” and the
email should list the following:
1) Full Name 4) Public Comment or Agenda Item Number
2) City of Residence 5) Subject
3) Phone Number 6) Written Comments
***** TELECONFERENCE PROCEDURES *****
Verbal Public Comment via Teleconference – members of the public may
attend and participate in the meeting by teleconference via Zoom and use
the “raise your hand” feature when public comments are prompted by the
Chairperson; the City will facilitate the ability for a member of the public to be
audible to the Planning Commission and general public and allow him/her/they to
speak on the item(s) requested. Please note – members of the public must unmute
themselves when prompted upon being recognized by the Chairperson, in order to
become audible to the Planning Commission and the public. Only one person may
speak at a time by teleconference and only after being recognized by the
Chairperson.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
Or by phone: (253) 215 – 8782
It would be appreciated that any email communications for public comments related
to the items on the agenda, or for general public comment, are provided to the City
at the email address listed above prior to the commencement of the meeting. If
that is not possible, and to accommodate public comments on items that may be
added to the agenda after its initial posting or items that are on the agenda, every
effort will be made to attempt to review emails received by the City during the course
of the meeting. The Chairperson will endeavor to take a brief pause before action is
taken on any agenda item to allow the Commission Secretary to review emails and
share any public comments received during the meeting. All emails received by the
City, at the email address above, until the adjournment of the meeting, will be
included within the public record relating to the meeting.
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CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL: Commissioners Caldwell, Currie, Hassett, McCune, Proctor, Tyerman
and Chairperson Nieto
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 3 of 5 MARCH 8, 2022
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the Planning Commission on any
matter not listed on the agenda by providing written public comments either in-
person or via email as indicated above; or provide verbal public comments
either in-person or via teleconference by joining the meeting virtually at
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand”
feature when prompted by the Chairperson or Commission Secretary. Members of
the public attending the meeting in-person are requested to complete a “Request
to Speak” form and submit to the Commission Secretary. Please limit your
comments to three (3) minutes (or approximately 350 words). The Planning
Commission values your comments; however, in accordance with State law, no
action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda unless it is an
emergency item authorized by the Brown Act [Government Code § 54954.2(b)].
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1. PRESENTATION FROM CITY ATTORNEY REGARDING STATE SENATE BILL 9
CONSENT CALENDAR
NOTE: Consent Calendar items are routine in nature and can be approved by one
motion.
PAGE
1. APPROVE MEETING MINUTES OF JANUARY 11, 2022 6
BUSINESS SESSION
PAGE
1. REVIEW GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL
PROGRESS REPORTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2021 AND RECOMMEND
THAT CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZE SUBMITTAL TO THE STATE
13
STUDY SESSION – NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS
For all Public Hearings on the agenda, any person may provide public comments in
support or opposition of a project(s). If you challenge a project(s) in court, you
may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public
hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to the public
hearing.
A person may submit written comments either in-person or via email at
TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov; or provide verbal comments during the public hearing
either in-person or via teleconference by joining the meeting virtually at
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand”
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 4 of 5 MARCH 8, 2022
feature when prompted by the Chairperson. Members of the public attending the
meeting in-person are requested to complete a “Request to Speak” form and
submit it to the City Clerk prior to consideration of the item.
PAGE
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-
0002 AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004 FOR A NEW
8,337 SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL CONDOMINIUM BUILDING ON
VACANT LOT IN CALEO BAY PARK COMMERCIAL CENTER; CEQA:
DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT HAS DETERMINED THE
PROJECT IS CONSISTENT WITH EA 2004-528; LOCATION:
NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 48 AND CALEO BAY DRIVE
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REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS – NONE
STAFF ITEMS
1.VERBAL UPDATE ON CITYWIDE PROJECTS
COMMISSIONERS’ ITEMS – NONE
ADJOURNMENT
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The next regular meeting of the Planning Commission will be held on March 22,
2022, commencing at 5:00 p.m. with the Call to Order, at the City Hall Council
Chamber, 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, California.
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Tania Flores, Planning Commission Secretary, do hereby declare that the foregoing
Agenda for the La Quinta Planning Commission meeting of March 8, 2022, was
posted on the City’s website, near the entrance to the Council Chamber at 78495
Calle Tampico, and the bulletin boards at the Stater Brothers Supermarket at 78630
Highway 111, and the La Quinta Cove Post Office at 51321 Avenida Bermudas, on
March 4, 2022.
DATED: March 4, 2022
TANIA FLORES, Planning Commission Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA Page 5 of 5 MARCH 8, 2022
Public Notices
The La Quinta City Council Chamber is handicapped accessible. If special equipment is
needed for the hearing impaired, please call the Planning Division of the Design and
Development Department at (760) 777-7023, twenty-four (24) hours in advance of the
meeting and accommodations will be made.
If special electronic equipment is needed to make presentations to the Commission,
arrangements should be made in advance by contacting the Planning Division of the
Design and Development Department at (760) 777-7023. A one (1) week notice is
required.
If background material is to be presented to the Commission during a Planning
Commission meeting, please be advised that ten (10) copies of all documents, exhibits,
etc., must be supplied to the Planning Commission Secretary for distribution. It is
requested that this takes place prior to the beginning of the meeting.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the Commission regarding any
item(s) on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at the Design and
Development Department’s counter at City Hall located at 78-495 Calle Tampico, La
Quinta, California, 92253, during normal business hours.
PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 1 of 7 January 11, 2022
PLANNING COMMISSION
MINUTES
TUESDAY, JANUARY 11, 2022
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the La Quinta Planning Commission was called to order at 5:01
p.m. by Chairperson Nieto.
This meeting provided teleconferencing accessibility pursuant to Executive Orders
N-60-20 and N-08-21 executed by the Governor of California, and subsequently
Assembly Bill 361 (AB 361, 2021), enacted in response to the state of emergency
relating to novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) and enabling
teleconferencing accommodations by suspending or waiving specified provisions in
the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.).
PRESENT: Commissioners Caldwell (via teleconference), Currie, Hassett,
McCune, Proctor, Tyerman, and Chairperson Nieto
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: Design & Development Director Danny Castro, Public Works
Director/City Engineer Bryan McKinney, Planning Manager Cheri
L. Flores, Senior Planner Carlos Flores, Associate Planner Siji
Fernandez, Commission Secretary Tania Flores, Assistant City
Attorney Travis Van Ligten (via teleconference)
CONSULTANTS: Planning Consultant Nicole Criste with Terra Nova Planning &
Research, Inc.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Commissioner McCune led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Alena Callimanis, La Quinta – provided information regarding
water conservation, levels, and usage; opposed the Coral Mountain Resort project
due to water consumption concerns; provided drone footage of proposed site.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA – Confirmed.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 1
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 2 of 7 January 11, 2022
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS, AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATION – None.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1.APPROVE MEETING MINUTES OF OCTOBER 26, 2021
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Commissioners Proctor/Currie to
approve the Consent Calendar, as presented. Motion passed unanimously.
BUSINESS SESSION – None.
STUDY SESSION – None.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1.ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
2021-0007 (SDP 2004-816, AMENDMENT NO. 2) AND MINOR
ADJUSTMENT 2021-0010 TO AMEND SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
PLANS FOR BELLA AT PIAZZA SERENA; CEQA: THE PROJECT IS
CONSISTENT WITH PREVIOUSLY CERTIFIED MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION PREPARED FOR PIAZZA SERENA (EA2001-417).
LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 58 AND MONROE
STREET
DECLARATIONS REGARDING COMMISSION PUBLIC CONTACT – None.
Associate Planner Fernandez presented the staff report which is on file in the Design
and Development Department.
Staff answered questions regarding the Minor Adjustments (MA) requested for lots
9 and 40; reductions in square footage of the units in the proposed plans, elevation
height changes, garage sizes and measurements, and how square footage is
calculated for projects; the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) project letter citing
submittal requirements; CEQA compliance and consistency with previously
approved Mitigated Negative Declaration; reasons for the MA requested and the
ability to add a residential pool to each lot; public response letters and what
changes were made due to these letters; exterior landscaping plans; short-term
vacation rental permit allowance; solar energy provisions.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING OPEN AT 5:44 P.M.
Applicant Edgar Gomez of Richmond American Homes provided a brief presentation
regarding the history of this phase of the project; existing homeowner and
homeowner association outreach addressing architectural, landscaping, and square
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 3 of 7 January 11, 2022
footage concerns; IID and Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) ability to service
the project; consistency with the residential standards, zoning code, general plan
policies, and site and landscape design criteria; phasing and timeline for
construction buildout and landscaping; reason for the changes to square footage
of individual units; proposed location of the model homes; managing Homeowner’s
Association for the new phase of the development; the Contemporary Prairie
elevation architecture and design consistency; construction access through
emergency access gate; pool and landscaping packages; supply chain issues and
material shortages; interest and pre-sale units.
Director Castro noted the Commission’s review and consideration of this item was
regarding the Site Development Permit Amendment request to amend the single
family residential plans for Bella at Piazza Serena.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Alena Callimanis, La Quinta – declined public comment as her
questions were answered.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Carl Coggins, La Quinta – opposed the project due to garage
capacity, and the design and architecture of the proposed homes.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: David Crouse, La Quinta – opposed the project due to
appearance, size and quality of the proposed homes including garage sizes;
fireplaces as options rather than standard; price point affecting the values of the
existing and surrounding homes.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Charles Hawkins, La Quinta – expressed appreciation for existing
homes within Piazza Serena; provided a brief history of the project; opposed the
project due to reduction in square footage of proposed homes.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Tamara Hay, La Quinta – opposed the project due to the
reduction in square footage and expected base price of the proposed homes;
inconsistency with architectural design of plans within the project; lack of
communication with Applicant.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Donald Imoto, La Quinta – opposed the project due to decreased
square footage and inconsistency of the proposed architectural design with the
existing homes.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Fonda Lacerra, La Quinta – opposed the project due to
decreased square footage and discrepancy in calculations of living space versus
total building footprint; expressed concerns regarding the reputation of Applicant.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: David Nola, La Quinta – opposed the project due to lack of
communication from the Applicant, decreased square footage of the proposed units
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 4 of 7 January 11, 2022
and inconsistency with existing units and surrounding communities; use of the
emergency access road for construction and safety concerns; reputation of the
Applicant.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Phillip Reyes, La Quinta – declined public comment as all
concerns had been addressed.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Raymond Curt Starkweather, La Quinta resident and President
of the Piazza Serena Homeowner’s Association – opposed the project due to
decreased square footage and inconsistency of the architectural design of the
proposed units with the existing homes.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: John “Randy” Young, La Quinta – opposed the project due to
decreased square footage of proposed units.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Rosalie Young, La Quinta – declined to speak stating her
husband addressed her concerns.
PUBLIC SPEAKER VIA TELECONFERENCE: Natalie Kennel, La Quinta – opposed the
project due to the negative reputation of the Applicant; lack of Applicant’s area
specific knowledge and experience; lack of communication from Applicant;
decreased garage size and capacity.
Staff answered Commission questions regarding changes to the livable square
footage versus building footprint square footage; Applicant responded to
Commission questions and Public Speaker comments regarding calculated square
footage, the Applicant’s reputation, and knowledge of the area.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT 6:50 P.M.
Commission discussion followed regarding architectural design; discrepancy of
calculating livable square footage versus building footprint square footage; the
Commission’s purview of consideration; market for smaller sized homes; amending
the conditions of approval to include items discussed; real estate values of smaller
homes.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING RE-OPEN AT 6:58 P.M.
Applicant provided additional information regarding the request for the
amendment. Staff provided additional information regarding the Commission’s
purview as it related to this item and the La Quinta Municipal Code; Minor versus
Major modification process and the 10% rule.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 5 of 7 January 11, 2022
PUBLIC SPEAKER: David Nola, La Quinta – opposed the project amendment due to
decreased livable square footage and the affects this will have on the value of the
existing homes within the project; the reputation of the Applicant.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Tommi Lacerra, La Quinta – opposed the project due to
decreased square footage and the affects this will have on value of existing homes
within the project and surrounding developments.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Jason Trada, La Quinta – opposed the project due to poor
salesmanship and lack of trust of the Applicant; decreased square footage and the
effects on the home values of the existing homes.
Applicant responded to comments made regarding the anticipated price points of
the proposed homes with floor plans as presented.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING RE-CLOSED AT 7:10 P.M.
Commission discussion followed regarding exterior landscape; the quantity of plan
type most affected by reduction in square footage; affects the proposed changes
would have on the value of the existing homes; the need for compromise to finish
the project; emergency access point for construction access; need for side-by-side
comparison of square footage including livable space, garage size, and footprint of
each plan.
Commissioner Caldwell recommended a motion for continuance to allow for the
Commission’s and public concerns to be addressed by the Applicant and City Staff.
Assistant City Attorney Van Ligten provided instruction on procedures for
continuing the hearing. Commission and staff discussed square footage
calculations.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING RE-OPEN AT 7:17 P.M.
Staff, Commission, and Applicant discussed timeline for continuation of this item.
Assistant City Attorney Van Ligten clarified the differences between denying this
request or continuing the item and what the Commission’s purview would be if the
item was to be continued.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Chairperson Nieto/ Commissioner
Hassett to continue the Public Hearing for consideration of adoption of a Resolution
to approve a new architectural plan set for Bella at Piazza Serena, a Minor
Adjustment to setbacks on two lots, and find the project consistent with previously
certified Mitigated Negative Declaration, to a date certain of February 8, 2022.
Motion passed unanimously.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 6 of 7 January 11, 2022
2.CONSIDER NEGATIVE DECLARATION (EA2021-0010), AND GENERAL
PLAN AMENDMENT 2020-0001, FOR THE 2022-2029 HOUSING
ELEMENT UPDATE AND UPDATES TO 2035 GENERAL PLAN CHAPTER
IV, ENVIRONMENTAL HAZARDS (SAFETY ELEMENT), TAKE PUBLIC
TESTIMONY, AND CONTINUE TO FEBRUARY 8, 2022; CEQA: A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION WAS PREPARED UNDER ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 2021-0010; LOCATION: CITY-WIDE
DECLARATIONS REGARDING COMMISSION PUBLIC CONTACT – None.
Planning Consultant Criste presented the staff report which is on file in the Design
and Development Department.
Staff answered questions regarding the removal of discretionary findings from
permitting requirements found on page 104 of the agenda packet and the City’s
ability to make findings related to development standards, general plan, and zoning
ordinances; identifying and allocating sites for affordable housing; the City’s ability
to facilitate an increase in affordable housing access; identified properties to RHNA
requirements and utilization of available properties; costs associated with building
affordable housing and how those figures are calculated; specific sites removed
from a previous prospective affordable housing list; zoning amendments required
for affordable housing overlay and development standards; converting private
housing to affordable housing; state versus local control over findings; the status
of Season La Quinta at Mira Flores.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING OPEN AT 8:11 P.M.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: None.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT 8:12 P.M.
The Commission expressed appreciation to Planning Consultant Criste and the
Planning Staff for their work on preparing the Housing Element for consideration.
CHAIRPERSON NIETO DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING RE-OPEN AT 8:13 P.M.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Commissioners McCune/Proctor
to continue the Public Hearing to consider adoption of a Resolution recommending
City Council approval of a Negative Declaration (EA2021-0010), and a General Plan
Amendment (GPA2020-0001) for the 2022-2029 Housing Element Update and
updates to the 2035 General Plan Chapter IV, Environmental Hazards (Safety
Element), to a date certain of February 8, 2022. Motion passed unanimously.
STAFF ITEMS – None.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MINUTES Page 7 of 7 January 11, 2022
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS – None.
COMMISSIONERS’ ITEMS
Commissioner McCune requested Assistant City Attorney Van Ligten provide
additional clarification relating to the calculating of residential square footage by
various entities including the County Tax Assessor, City, and Real Estate Agents at
a future meeting.
Chairperson Nieto requested additional information on State legislature as it relates
to housing including SB8, SB9 and SB10.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved and seconded by Commissioners
Proctor/Currie to adjourn the meeting at 8:20 P.M. Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
TANIA FLORES, Commission Secretary
City of La Quinta, California
12
BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 1
City of La Quinta
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: March 8, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: REVIEW GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL
PROGRESS REPORTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2021 AND RECOMMEND THAT
CITY COUNCIL AUTHORIZE SUBMITTAL TO THE STATE
RECOMMENDATION
Review and comment on the General Plan and Housing Element Annual
Progress Reports.
Recommend that the City Council authorize submittal of the General
Plan and the Housing Element Annual Progress Reports to the State
Office of Planning and Research (OPR) and Department of Housing and
Community Development (HCD).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
State Law requires incorporated communities to adopt a General Plan
that regulates the land development within the City’s boundary and
sphere of influence.
The 2035 La Quinta General Plan (General Plan) was adopted by Council
on February 19, 2013.
A General Plan Annual Progress Report (General Plan APR) has been
prepared to update the Planning Commission (PC) and Council on
implementation.
The Housing Element Annual Progress Report (Housing APR) has been
prepared in compliance with the State regulations.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
General Plan APR
California Government Code Section 65300 requires the City to prepare and
adopt a comprehensive, long-term General Plan. The General Plan addresses
lands within the City’s boundaries and its sphere of influence (Attachment 1).
Staff prepared the General Plan APR to inform the Planning Commission (PC)
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and Council on the status of the General Plan implementation. Staff has
presented General Plan progress reports to PC every year since 2017.
The General Plan APR was prepared according to the guidelines established by
OPR and provides General Plan implementation status since adopted on
February 19, 2013. The General Plan APR reviews all goals, policies and
programs for the mandated elements: Land Use, Circulation, Housing,
Conservation, Open Space, Safety, and Noise. Additionally, the General Plan
APR reviews all optional elements such as the Livable Community, Economic
Development, Parks, Recreation, and Trails, Air Quality, Biological Resources
and Cultural Resources elements. All goals/policies are listed with their current
status. Updates to implementation efforts are highlighted in yellow in the
General Plan APR (Attachment 2).
General Plan implementation occurs regularly by all City Departments through
the development and implementation of City programs, and PC and Council
review of development projects for consistency with the General Plan.
Implementation of General Plan goals, policies and programs may require new
initiatives that extend beyond the development review process.
Implementation efforts in 2021 included:
Construction underway of the Talus (SilverRock) development;
SilverRock Event Center Park construction completed and open;
X Park Skate Park construction underway and near completion;
Al Fresco program to assist businesses with outdoor dining and sales
continues.
Housing APR
Preparing and submitting the Housing APR to HCD and OPR is required by all
cities pursuant to SB 35 and AB 879, enacted in 2017. Codified as Government
Code 65400, this legislation requires cities to prepare an annual Housing
Element Progress Report that outlines annual building activity, housing
development applications received, and progress towards achieving a city’s
Regional Housing Needs Allocation, or RHNA (Attachment 3). The City has
made significant progress towards achieving its RHNA for this cycle. The
current report shows the City meeting its 91-unit very low-income allocation
goal, 61-unit low income allocation goal, and 146-unit above moderate income
allocation goal, but still short of its 66-unit moderate income allocation goal.
Recent General Plan Updates
The General Plan Housing and Safety Elements were recently updated and
adopted to include the updated goals, policies and programs for
implementation of the City’s new RHNA for the 2022-2029 housing cycle and
14
additional state requirements regarding climate change, flood risk, and fire
hazards. The review of these updated policies will be incorporated into the
APR’s next year.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The General Plan APR and Housing APR are not subject to CEQA as the
reports are not considered a project as defined in Section 15378(b)(2) of the
Public Resources Code.
Prepared by: Cheri Flores, Planning Manager
Approved by: Danny Castro, Design and Development Director
Attachments: 1. La Quinta General Plan Map
2. General Plan Annual Progress Report
3. Housing Element Annual Progress Report Summary
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II-1
Source: City of La Quinta General Plan, 05.07.2012 06.26.12City of La Quinta General Plan
Land Use Map
La Quinta, California
Exhibit
ATTACHMENT 1
116
2021General Plan
Annual Progress
Report
A ccepted by City Council
consent Item #
ATTACHMENT 2
17
i
Table of Contents
Section Page Number
Table of Contents i
List of Abbreviations ii
General Plan Elements
Land Use x
Circulation x
Livable Community x
Economic Development x
Housing x
Parks, Recreation, and Trails x
Air Quality x
Energy and Mineral Resources x
Biological Resources x
Cultural Resources x
Water Resources x
Open Space and Conservation x
Noise x
Soils and Geology x
Flooding and Hydrology x
Hazardous Materials x
Emergency Services x
Water, Sewer, and Utilities x
Public Facilities x
18
ii
List of Abbreviations
Abbreviation Meaning
ALRB Architecture and Landscape Review Board
GP General Plan
SOI Sphere of Influence
PUD Planned Unit Development
SP Specific Plan
CVWD Coachella Valley Water District
IID Imperial Irrigation District
CVMSHCP Coachella Valley Multi Species Habitat Conservation Plan
CIP Capital Improvement Plan
STVR Short Term Vacation Rental
ALUC Airport Land Use Commission
ATP Active Transportation Plan
PAT Process Action Team
PMP Pavement Management Plan
CVAG Coachella Valley Association of Governments
LOS Level of Services
LQMC La Quinta Municipal Code
TSM Transportation Systems Management
JPA Joint Powers Authority
CEQA California Environmental Quality Act
TMO Transportation Management Organization
GHG Greenhouse Gas
BRT Bus Rapid Transit
NEV Neighborhood Electric Vehicles
GPS Global Positioning System
GIS Geographic Information Systems
EIR Environmental Impact Report
RHNA Regional Housing Needs Assessment
AHO Affordable Housing Overlay
LIHTC Transition Low Income Housing Tax Credit
HUD Housing and Urban Development
HCD California Department of Housing and Community Development
EDA Riverside County Economic Development Agency
MVK Martha’s Village and Kitchen
CVRM Coachella Valley Rescue Mission
LIHEAP Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
HERO Home Energy Renovation Opportunity
DRD Desert Recreation District
SCAQMD South Coast Air Quality Management District
TAC Toxic Air Contaminant
LED Light Emitting Diode
CNG Compressed Natural Gas
MBTA Migratory Bird Treaty Act
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iii
FY Fiscal Year
SB California Senate Bill
AB California Assembly Bill
NPDES National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
dbA A-weighted Sound Level
CNEL Community Noise Equivalent Level
CM City Manager
EOP Emergency Operations Plan
EOC Emergency Operations Center
FEMA Federal Emergency Management Agency
CERT Community Emergency Response Team
DIF Development Impact Fees
ISO Insurance Services Office
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Policy/Programs Description Status
Goal LU-1
Policy LU-1.1 The Land Use Map shall implement the goals and policies of the Land Use Element and the other
Elements of the General Plan.
Complete and Ongoing. The Land Use Map is updated on a periodic basis to be
sure the land use patterns in the City reflect the goals and policies of the
General Plan.
Program LU-1.1a Maintain consistency between the Land Use Map and Zoning Map, consistent with the Zoning
Designations Consistency Matrix.
Complete and Ongoing. Zone Change and General Plan Amendment Proposals
are reviewed for consistency. Updated Overall Zoning Map Fall 2016
Program LU-1.1b The Zoning Ordinance will include design standards in all zoning districts that assure high
quality development.
Complete and Ongoing. Design guidelines are in effect for the Highway 111
area. Specific Plans include separate design guidance approved by the Planning
Commission and City Council. Citywide single-family residential design
guidelines have been adopted.
Policy LU-1.2 All land use decisions shall be consistent with all applicable General Plan policies and programs
and shall uphold the rights and needs of property owners as well as those of the general public.Ongoing. Required by law and findings during project approval.
Policy LU-1.3 The City Council shall review the City's Sphere of Influence every five years
Ongoing. The General Plan was last updated in 2013 and the Sphere of
Influence was considered then. No changes in the conditions of the Sphere of
Influence have warranted it's review and there are currently no interests in
annexation.
Policy LU-1.4
No annexation affecting lands in the southern Sphere of Influence (also known as Vista Santa
Rosa) shall occur until a Master Plan for this area has been adopted, unless the annexation is
required for municipal purposes.
No annexations in this area have been proposed since adoption of the General
Plan Update.
Program LU-1.4a The Master Plan for Vista Santa Rosa will include an active and aggressive community
participation program to ensure that community character is reflected in the Plan.
No master plan has been initiated due to limited interest by development
community for annexation.
Program LU-1.4b The Master Plan for Vista Santa Rosa can be initiated by the City or by property owners or
developers who are willing to fund the project.No master plan has been initiated.
Policy LU-1.5
All annexation applications by land owners shall include fiscal analysis that fully addresses the
fiscal impact of the proposed annexation. Subsequently, all annexation applications shall also
include a Development Agreement application or mechanism other that demonstrates how the
annexation will be revenue neutral or revenue positive for the City.
Ongoing. No annexations have been proposed in the City since adoption of the
General Plan Update. This policy will be applied to annexation requests.
Applicants will be required to submit fiscal analysis and enter into development
agreements when annexing properties. If annexation is City initiated, City will
obtain fiscal analysis.
Goal LU-2
Policy LU-2.1 Changes and variations from the Zoning Ordinance in a Specific Plan will be offset by high
quality design, amenities and mix of land uses.
Complete and Ongoing, Planned Unit Development (PUD) standards have been
codified to further encourage mixed land use development. Encourage
applicants to incorporate innovative, high quality design, amenities and mixed
land uses in Specific Plans and Amendments.
LAND USE
Land use compatibility throughout the City.
High quality design that complements the City.
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Policy LU-2.2
Specific Plans shall be required for projects proposing the integration of recreation, tourist
commercial and residential uses; and for all projects proposing flexible development standards
that differ from the Zoning Ordinance.
Ongoing. Specific Plans are encouraged by Staff for new development, As an
alternative the PUD ordinance has been adopted to allow flexible development
standards.
Program LU-2.2a Maintain detailed requirements for the preparation of Specific Plans in the Zoning Ordinance
Complete. The Zoning ordinance has Specific Plan requirements. Review cases
to make sure they are in compliance with Specific Plan requirements in the
zoning ordinance.
Program LU-2.2b The Planning Director will determine substantial conformance in approved Specific Plans Ongoing. Planning staff reviews cases to determine which are substantially
conforming. Design and Development Director has final approval.
Program LU-2.2c
The Planning Director has the authority to waive the need for a Specific Plan Amendment under
the following circumstances: When changes to the land use allocation are less than 5%; When
the off-site circulation pattern and turning movements will not be altered by the proposed
change; When the change is considered minor in nature and does not conflict with the purpose
and intent of the Specific Plan; or When no new land use is proposed.
Ongoing and case-by-case. Planning staff reviews cases to determine which
need Specific Plan Amendments. Design and Development Director has final
approval. Review Specific Plan cases during pre-application reviews to
determine if specific plans are necessary.
Policy LU-2.3 The City's outdoor lighting ordinance will be maintained.
Ongoing. Standards are built into the Zoning ordinance to allow for the lighting
ordinance to be maintained. Applicants prepare photometric study to prove
compliance as required by application submittal requirements.
Policy LU-2.4 Planning for all major community facilities shall carefully consider the potential impacts to
adjacent development, particularly residential development.Ongoing. Review of impacts required under CEQA unless exempt.
Program LU-2.4a Maintain standards for municipal facilities, utility substations, schools and similar public facilities
in the Zoning Ordinance.
Complete. Section 13.24.110 of the Municipal Code discusses requirements for
utilities, also Chapter 9.90 of the Municipal Code has standards for development
of major community facilities.
Policy LU-2.5 Public and utility projects shall be subject to the same standards as the development
community.
Complete. Section 13.24.110 of the Municipal Code discusses requirements for
utilities, also Chapter 9.90 of the Municipal Code has standards for development
of major community facilities.
Policy LU-2.6 Participate in efforts to preserve and protect sensitive resources throughout the City and
its Sphere of Influence, in support of the CVMSHCP.
Complete and Ongoing. Chapter 3.34 of the Municipal Code includes
requirements for paying the local development mitigation fee in support of the
CVMSHCP. Also addressed through CEQA process; review of locations of
Conservation Areas. Add Conservation Areas on Permit Software mapping app.
Program LU-2.6a Maintain and enforce the Hillside Preservation Ordinance
Ongoing. Section 9.110.070 has development standards for the Hillside
conservation Overlay District in order to preserve hillsides. Add Hillside
Conservation Overlay on Permit Software mapping app.
Program LU-2.6b Amend the Land Use Map as necessary to ensure the preservation of sensitive resources
through the designation of open space.
Complete. Open space areas are currently designated on the Zoning and
General Plan Land Use Maps.
Program LU-2.6c Encourage the use of native landscaping and "links" golf courses that preserve areas of natural
terrain and native vegetation.
Complete and ongoing. Section 8.13 of the Municipal Code includes regulations
for water efficient landscaping which promotes the use of native landscaping.
Policy LU-2.47 Continue to include park facilities planning in neighborhood planning efforts Ongoing. Zoning ordinance includes common area open space requirements.
Program LU-2.7a Continue to utilize the Quimby Act to charge park fees and allow for park development.Ongoing. Quimby fees are collected prior to final Map recordation. Updated
sheet on website with latest population factor reflected from 2010 Census data.
Program LU-2.7b Incorporate park planning into annexation studies and annexation community outreach efforts.No annexations have been proposed in the City since adoption of the General
Plan Update.
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Goal LU-3
Policy LU-3.1 Encourage the preservation of neighborhood character and assure a consistent and compatible
land use pattern.
Ongoing. All applications are reviewed for compatibility with neighbors.
Findings must also include compatibility.
Program LU-3.1a Periodically review land use designations to assure that changes in the community and
marketplace are met.
Ongoing. Currently, the land use designations are appropriate. Village Build Out
Plan completed 2016. Continue researching changes in planning and
development, such as changes in recreational preferences of residents and the
aging population, and allow for changes in land use designations as necessary.
Planning works with City Manager's office regarding Highway 111 land uses.
Program LU-3.1b Apply the City's discretionary powers and site development review process consistently to
assure that subdivision and development plans are compatible with existing residential areas.
Complete and Ongoing. The project review process allows for this. Plan check
process to assure plans are following the standards.
Policy LU-3.2 Density transfers may occur in Specific Plans when common area amenities and open space are
provided.Complete. Currently, Specific Plans allow for a density transfer process.
Policy LU-3.3
Maintain residential development standards including setbacks, height, pad elevations and other
design and performance standards that assure a high quality of development in the Zoning
Ordinance.
Complete. Chapters 9.50 and 9.60 of the Municipal Code set forth residential
development standards. Plan check process assures plans are following the
standards. City-wide residential guidelines approved.
Program LU-3.3a
Provide incentives in the Zoning Ordinance for creative and high quality development; projects
that reduce the dependence on automobiles; projects that incorporate trails and paths for
pedestrians and bicycles; and projects that incorporate transit and alternative transportation
facilities into their designs.
Complete. PUD and Mixed Use standards have been codified to further
encourage mixed land use development and to allow for flexible development
standards .
Goal LU-4
Policy LU-4.1 Encourage compatible development adjacent to existing neighborhoods and infrastructure.Ongoing. All applications are reviewed for compatibility with neighbors.
Findings must also include compatibility.
Program LU-4.1a Continue to use creative planning techniques, including the merger of small residential lots in
the Cove, to encourage development in existing neighborhoods.Case-by-case basis.
Policy LU-4.2 Capital improvement projects for developed areas in the City should be of first priority, to
encourage infill development.
Ongoing. CIP program identifies public projects that are planned for and
prioritized by need.
Program LU-4.2a Require necessary improvement/extension of intervening roadways and infrastructure to serve
new development.Ongoing. Conditions of Approval are the method for instituting this program.
Goal LU-5
Policy LU-5.1 Use development incentives to achieve a mix of housing, including affordable housing.Ongoing and case-by-case. Density bonuses, Mixed Use, PUD and SP
regulations allow for a mix of housing.
Program LU-5.1a
Monitor the progress made to achieve Housing Element mandated goals for the provision of
housing and consider amendments to the General Plan when necessary to help achieve those
goals.
Ongoing. Yearly report is prepared evaluating housing in the City. Provide
Annual reports to Planning Commission and City Council on progress towards
Housing Element goals.
Policy LU-5.2 Consider changes in market demand in residential product type to meet the needs of current
and future residents.
Ongoing. Trends in the market are being followed, such as less younger people
are buying homes and are more interested in mixed use type development.
Recent residential development modifications for Signature at PGA West,
Rancho Santana, Stone Creek, Carmela, and numerous others have been
considered and approved based on changing consumer demands.
A broad range of housing types and choices for all residents of the City.
Safe and identifiable neighborhoods that provide a sense of place.
Maintenance and protection of existing neighborhoods.
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Program LU-5.2a Periodically review and update, as needed, the standards of the Zoning Ordinance to allow for
changes in residential product types without the need for a Specific Plan.
Complete. PUD regulations have been added to the zoning ordinance to promote
changes in housing types without going through the Specific Plan process
Program LU-5.2b Include detailed residential development standards in the Mixed Use Overlay zoning district.Complete. Section 9.140.090 of the Municipal Code includes regulations for
Mixed Use residential development.
Goal LU-6
Policy LU-6.1 Commercial land use designations shall allow a full range of retail, office, resort and institutional
businesses in the City.
Complete. The commercial zones in the City allow for a full range of retail,
office, resort and institutional businesses in the City.
Program LU-6.1a
As part of the update of the Economic Development Plan, review the Land Use Map regularly to
assure that sufficient lands are designated for commercial uses which support the needs of the
community and surrounding areas.
Ongoing.
Program LU-6.1b Encourage the integration of a wide range of support services at employment centers, including
child care, occupational health, fitness facilities and convenience retail shops.
Complete. Mixed use regulations have been added to the zoning ordinance to
promote support services.
Program LU-6.1c Maintain economic and demographic statistical data and make this data available to the
development community and other interested parties.
Complete and ongoing. City website has demographic data on it which is
available for anyone to view and is updated on a regular basis as information is
available.
Policy LU-6.2
Maintain commercial development standards in the Zoning Ordinance including set backs,
height, pad elevations and other design and performance standards that assure a high quality
of development.
Complete. Chapters 9.90 and 9.100 include development regulations for
commercial development.
Policy LU-6.3 Support and encourage the expansion of the resort industry as a key component of the City's
economic base.
Ongoing. New hotels are proposed for the Silverrock site and Short term
vacation rental (STVR) program has been instituted, which collects TOT. A new
hotel was constructed on Highway 111.
Program LU-6.3a Provide standards for a broad range of tourist commercial land uses in the Zoning Ordinance.Complete. A variety of uses is provided for in Chapter 9.80 of the Municipal
Code for tourist commercial development.
Policy LU-6.4 Support the development of a broad range of non-polluting, carefully planned industrial uses.Complete. The Commercial Park district of the City allows for light industrial
uses.
Program LU-6.4a Include provisions for industrial development including development standards, permitted and
conditionally permitted land uses in the Zoning Ordinance.
Based on demand for industrial development which has been low. Develop new
standards for Industrial zoning district upon consideration of a masterplan for
the Vista Santa Rosa area.
Policy LU-6.5 Industrial lands shall be located along major transportation corridors, and in areas that
maximize all available infrastructure.Complete. Land Use map is consistent with this.
Policy LU-6.6 Encourage the development of vocation and technical programs in the educational system to
help the industrial sector find qualified local employees.No activity, limited demand in the City for industrial uses.
Policy LU-6.7 Consider the airport Master Plan in all development proposals adjacent to the Jacqueline
Cochran Airport.Ongoing. Required by law.
Program LU-6.7a Standards for development adjacent to airports shall be developed which maximize the need for
public safety.
No activity. The Airport Land Use Commission has development regulations in
place to accommodate public safety. This will be necessary for future projects
in the Sphere of Influence adjacent to the Jacqueline Cochran Airport.
A balanced and varied economic base which provides a broad range of goods and services to the City's residents and the regio
24
Program LU-6.7b Projects located within the influence area of the Airport's Land Use Plan will include review and
analysis of their conformance with the Land Use Plan in their application submittal.
Ongoing. Projects sent to the ALUC if within a protection zone within the airport
land use plan.
Goal LU-7
Policy LU-7.1 Encourage the use of mixed use development in appropriate locations.Ongoing and case-by-case.
Program LU-7.1a Establish a Mixed Use Overlay for all the commercial zoning designations.Complete. Mixed Use Overlay adopted in 2016.
Policy LU-7.2 Mixed Use developments within 300 feet of Highway 111 must include retail commercial
development for at least 75% of the ground floor leasable area.Complete. Included in 2016 zoning update.
Policy LU-7.3 Encourage the use of vacant pads in existing commercial development on Highway 111 for
residential use.
Ongoing and case-by-case basis. Highway 111 Corridor Plan contains
implementation strategies to encourage this.
Program LU-7.3a Amend the Zoning Ordinance to include standards for high density residential development
within commercial zones.Complete. Added in 2016.
Policy LU-7.4 Develop incentives for Mixed Use projects.Complete. Added with Mixed Use Overlay in 2016.
Program LU-7.4a Consider density bonuses, modified parking requirements, expedited entitlement and building
permit processing and fee waivers for Mixed Use projects.Complete. Added with Mixed Use Overlay in 2016.
Policy LU-7.5 Develop a Master Non-Motorized Transportation Plan for the Village.
Complete and Ongoing. Complete Street improvements are constructed which
include installing roundabouts, sidewalks, mid-block crossings and drainage
improvements.
Policy LU-7.6 Review and amend, as necessary, the Village Design Guidelines to allow maximum flexibility for
Mixed Use projects.
Complete. Village Design Guidelines were rescinded to allow more flexibility in
design in the Village. Mixed Use Overlay standards apply to the Village
Commercial District.
Policy LU-7.7 Continue to allow off-site parking through the payment of in lieu fees in the Village, as well as
other creative parking alternatives.
Complete. Parking studies in the Village are conducted on a semi-annual basis
to determine parking needs. Flexible standards added to zoning ordinance in
2016.
Program LU-7.7a Plan for and fund a City parking structure in the Capital Improvement Program.Complete. Included in Capital Improvement Program (CIP).
Policy LU-7.8 Encourage the expansion of transit service to meet commuter needs.Staff works with Sunline during project review process.
Program LU-7.8a Expand transit opportunities on Highway 111 and to the Village to allow a broad range of
services (including special event shuttle services).Coordinate with Sunline during Highway 111 and Village PAT discussions.
Innovative land uses in the Village and on Highway 111.
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Policy/Program Description Status
Goal CIR-1
Policy CIR-1.1 Maintain and regularly update a complete General Plan masterplan of roads, which includes provisions for as
many modes of travel as possible.Complete and Ongoing. Currently in General Plan
Program CIR-1.1.a Annual Monitoring of the roadway network, maintain a CIP Ongoing. New 5yr CIP approved in 2021.
Program CIR-1.1.b Establish and maintain a roadway pavement program (PMP) with timelines and schedules for maintenance of
existing roads and establish funding levels each fiscal year.Ongoing. Finalized 2021 PMP Update
Program CIR-1.1.c The General Plan Traffic Impact Analysis and associated modeling shall be updated every two years or as
determined appropriate by the City Engineer.
No Activity. Update of traffic model has not occurred since 2012. Not needed
at this time.
Policy CIR-1.2 General plan street classifications- Highway 111, Major Arterial, Primary Arterial, Secondary Arterial,
Modified Secondary, Collector Complete. Currently in General Plan
Policy CIR-1.3 PW standard plans setting forth roadway standards and specs shall be updated and maintained for ROW,
lane dimensions and multi-use path design
Complete and Ongoing. Engineering Bulletins and Standards. VMT criteria
adoted June 2020 was added
Policy CIR-1.4 PW director authorized to make consistency findings to permit modifications that do not compromise
operational capacity of subject roadway or intersections Ongoing and Case-by-Case
Policy CIR-1.5 Where the construction of multi-use paths is called for but is determined to be infeasible sidewalks shall be
constructed along at least one side of these roadways.
Ongoing. Implemented on a case by case basis and based on roadway
improvements and available right of way
Policy CIR-1.6 Maintain LOS-D, unless infeasible and/or conflict with other goals.Ongoing. City enforces this standard for development
Policy CIR-1.7 Allow flexible LOS standards in recognition of constraints on roadway expansion and as a means of creating
streets that balance all modes of travel.Case-by-Case. At times this is permitted.
Policy CIR-1.8
LOS E and F conditions may be determined acceptable during peak travel periods and a level of service
exemption or GP consistency determination may be approved if other feasible roadway improvements can be
constructed and/or management programs implemented that mitigate for the loss and achieve acceptable
LOS. Exemptions shall not affect the implementation of previously approved roadway and intersection
improvements.
Case-by-Case. At times this is permitted.
Policy CIR-1.9
Coordinate and cooperate with Caltrans, CVAG, Riverside County and adjoining cities to assure adequate
transportation infrastructure, systems management coordination, preservation of capacity and maximized
efficiency along Washington Street, Jefferson Street, Highway 111, Fred Waring Drive, Harrison Street and
other major roadways.
Ongoing. Consultant traffic engineer cooperates with adjoining agencies,
signal timing and other concerns. Street improvement projects between
jurisdictions.
Program 1.9.a
Maintain a liaison with adjoining cities, Caltrans, CVAG Riverside County planning and engineering staff to
study and implement effective means of preserving and improving capacity along Washington Street,
Jefferson Street, Highway 111, Harrison Street and other major roadways serving inter-city traffic.
Strategies shall include but are not limited to synchronized signalization, consolidation of access drived and
restriction of access, construction of additional travel and turning lanes, raised median islands, and other
improvements to critical intersections.
Ongoing. Consultant traffic engineer cooperates with adjoining agencies,
signal timing and other concerns. Street improvement projects between
jurisdictions.
Policy CIR-1.10 Establish and maintain minimum standards of roadway geometries, points of access and other improvements
that facilitate movement of traffic onto and off of the roadway network.Complete and ongoing. City implements these standards.
Program CIR-1.10.a
Review new and redeveloping projects along all major roadways with the intent of limiting access and
aligning and/or consolidating access drives in a manner which minimizes conflicting turning movements and
maximizes the use of existing and planned signalized intersections.
Ongoing. Currently achieved with development review.
CIRCULATION
A transportation and circulation network that efficiently, safely and economically moves people, vehicles, and goods using facilities
that meet current demands and projected needs of the City.
26
Program CIR-1.10.b
On Major Arterials the minimum intersection spacing shall be 2,600 feet in residential areas, and may be
1,060 feet for commercial frontage. Intersection spacing may be reduced to 500 feet at the Whitewater
Channel and La Quinta Evacuation Channel. The design speed shall be 55 miles per hour (mph). Left turn
median cuts may be authorized if the proposed turn pocket does not interfere with other existing or planned
left turn pockets. Right in/right out access driveways shall exceed the following minimum separation
distances (in all cases, distances shall be measured between the curb returns: More than 250 feet on the
approach left to a full turn; more than 150 feet on the exit leg from a full turn intersection; more than 275
feet between driveways. All access configurations shall be subject to City Engineer review and approval.
Ongoing. Currently achieved with development review.
Program CIR-1.10.c
On Primary Arterials the minimum intersection spacing shall be 1,060 feet. The design speed shall be 45
mph. Left turn median cuts may be authorized if the proposed turn pocket does not interfere with other
existing or planned left turn pockets. Right in/right out access driveways shall exceed the following
minimum separation distances (in all cases, distances shall be measured between curb returns): More than
250 feet on the approach leg to a full turn intersection; More than 150 feet on the exit leg from a full turn
intersection; More than 275 feet between driveways. All access configuration shall require City Engineer
review and approval.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10.d
On Calle Tampico, between Eisenhower Drive and Washington, and on Eisenhower Drive, between Calle
Tampico and Avenida Bermudas, full turn intersections may be permitted at a minimum distance of 500 feet,
if the intersection complies with an approved Corridor Signal Plan.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10.e
On Secondary Arterials, the minimum intersection spacing shall be 600 feet. The design speed shall be 40
mph. Full access to adjoining property shall be avoided and shall exceed the following minimum separation
distances (in all cases, distances shall be measured between curb returns): More than 250 feet on the
approach leg to a full turn intersection; More than 150 feet on the exit leg from a full turn intersection; more
than 250 feet between driveways.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10.f
On Collectors, the minimum intersection spacing shall be 300 feet. The design speed shall be 30 mph.
Access driveways shall exceed there following minimum separation distances (in all cases, distances shall be
measured between the curb returns): -More than 250 feet on the approach leg to a full turn intersection; -
more than 150 feet on the exit leg from a full turn intersection; -more than 250 feet between driveways.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10g On Local streets, the minimum intersection spacing shall be 250 feet. The design speed shall be 25 mph.
All access configurations shall be subject to City Engineer review and approval.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10h
Within subdivisions, private streets may be designed to provide a reduced minimum paved width of 28 feet
with no on-street or restricted on-street parking, subject to City Engineer and Fire Department approval, and
in consideration of other improvements that encourage pedestrian and bicycle use.
Ongoing. Implemented with development projects during development
review.
Program CIR-1.10.i Standards for all City streets, intersections and other appurtenances shall be maintained in the City
Municipal Code.Complete. Maintained in the LQMC
Program CIR-1.10.j
The City Engineer shall establish and maintain a traffic-calming program that details acceptable traffic
calming devices or concepts in residential neighborhoods. The City may review and finalize the 2008
"Neighborhood Traffic Management Program" for this purpose.
No official program in place, however, individual projects may implement
traffic-calming strategies.
Program CIR-1.10.k Confer and coordinate with CVAG in efforts to secure state and federal funding sources for preservation and
expansion of capacity on State Highway 111 and other important City arterials.Ongoing. Done as part of Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Program CIR-1.10.l New streets, which are extensions of existing streets, shall carry the same name for their entire length.Ongoing. As needed for development projects
Policy CIR-1.11 Apply Transportation Systems Management (TSM) strategies to intersections and roadway segments as a
cost-effective means of optimizing the City's transportation infrastructure.Ongoing. Done as part of Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Program CIR-1.11.a Prepare a preliminary TSM assessment of candidate intersections and roadways, and prioritize projects for
application of TSM solutions.Ongoing. Done as part of Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
27
Program CIR-1.11.b As part of the five-year Capital Improvement Program, incorporate TSM projects into other roadway
improvements and enhancement projects.Ongoing. Done as part of Capital Improvement Program (CIP)
Program CIR-1.11.c Prepare project-specific TSM strategies that take advantage of simply and low-cost solutions first, and
optimize the hierarchy of TSM solutions.Ongoing. Incorporated into City's practice
Policy CIR-1.12
As a means of reducing vehicular traffic on major roadways and to reduce vehicle miles traveled by traffic
originating in the City, the City shall pursue development of a land use pattern that maximizes interactions
between adjacent or nearby land uses.
Ongoing. Encouraged during development review process.
Program CIR-1.12.a Locate land uses that provide jobs and housing near each other to allow the use of alternative modes of
travel and produce shorter work commutes.
Complete. General Plan identifies land use. Mixed Use overlay in place to
encourage this. As of June 2020, city has a VMT policy
Program CIR-1.12.b Encourage, and where appropriate require, mixed-use and contiguous commercial development to provide
optimum internal connections between uses.Case-by-Case
Program CIR-1.12.c New development shall provide pedestrian and bicycle connections to adjacent streets, and assure that
infrastructure and amenities accommodate pedestrian and bicycle use.Ongoing and reviewed as part of development project review.
Program CIR-1.12.d Update and facilitate use of the City's home occupation ordinance as a means of reducing the need for
travel.Home Occupation ordinance in effect and currently being used.
Program CIR-1.12.e Encourage major employers to evaluate telecommuting opportunities, either home-based or at local centers
as well as part-time options for employees.No activity.
Policy CIR-1.13 Coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District and its consultants regarding its flood control facilities to
assure the accommodation of all-weather crossings along critical roadways.Ongoing. Plans for such facilities incorporated within CIP
Program CIR-1.13.a Cooperate in the planning and development of all-weather crossing as part of the community's Master
Drainage Plan implementation.Ongoing. Incorporated within CIP
Policy CIR-1.14 Private streets shall be developed in accordance with development of all-weather crossings as part of the
community's Master Drainage Plan implementation.Case-by-case
Program CIR-1.14.a Private street shall be developed in accordance with development standards set forth in the Municipal Code,
relevant Public Works Bulletins and other applicable standards and guidelines.Ongoing. Enforced during development review process.
Policy CIR-1.15 Truck routes shall avoid or minimize potential impacts to residential neighborhoods shall be designated and
limited to those shown on Exhibit 11-5.Ongoing. Truck Route Map enforced, permits need for oversized loads.
Policy CIR-1.16 Continue to implement the Image Corridor treatments throughout the City (See Exhibit 11-4) and identify
new image corridors for streets brought into the City through annexation.Ongoing and case-by-case. Implemented on a project by project basis
Program CIR-1.16.a Standards for all Image Corridor shall be maintained in the City Municipal Code.Ongoing. Projects reviewed for General Plan Consistency by Staff, Planning
Commission and Council.
Program CIR-1.16.b Where applicable, Image Corridor standards shall be superseded by the Village Design Standards in that land
designation.Village Design Guidelines rescinded. Image Corridor standards apply.
Program CIR-1.16.c.Secure easements adjacent to public road right-of-way along Image Corridors to enhance view protection
and corridor accessibility.Not actively securing easements but setbacks are enforced.
Policy CIR-1.17
In order to preserve the aesthetic values on the City's streets, optimum landscape setbacks shall be
maintained along all designated General Plan Image Corridors and shall be identified in the City's Municipal
Code.
Complete. Currently in LQMC and enforced
Policy CIR-1.18 Calle Cadiz, Calle Barcelona and Calle Amigo, in the Village area, shall be allowed to remain at a maximum
50-foot right-of-way.Complete
Policy CIR-1.19 The City Engineer shall review individual development proposals located at critical intersections, and shall
have the authority to request additional right-of-way if necessary.Case-by-case
Policy CIR-1.20 Building height limits along City Image Corridors shall be identified in the City's Municipal Code.Complete
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Policy CIR-1.21
Facilitate the design, installation and maintenance of a community locational/directional sign program to
efficiently direct traffic to high use areas, including the civic center, parks, SilverRock golf course, Jacqueline
Cochran Regional Airport, and other facilities and major attractions and destinations in and around the City.
Complete. Wayfinding signs installed.
Policy CIR-1.22
Coordinate and cooperate with the Riverside County Airport Commission (for the Jacqueline Cochran Airport)
and the Palm Springs Regional Airport Authority to assure these airports continue to meet the City's existing
and future transportation, commercial and emergency response needs.
Complete and Ongoing. Representation by Council and resident
representative on airport committees
Program 1.22.a
Consult and coordinate with the County in updating the Jacqueline Cochran Regional airport Master Plan and
encourage the expansion of facilities to accommodate commercial aircraft serving the eastern portions of the
Valley.
Ongoing. Councilmember sits on the Jacqueline Cochran regional airport
authority- JPA.
Goal CIR-2
Policy CIR-2.1
Encourage and cooperate with Sunline Transit Agency on the expansion of routes, facilities, services and
ridership especially in congested areas and those with high levels of employment and commercial services,
and encourage the use of most energy efficient and least polluting transportation technologies.
Ongoing. Council person on Sunline Board; Done with development projects.
Program CIR-2.1.a Consult and coordinate with Sunline Transit Agency on immediate and long-term transit issues, and assure
pro active representation on the Agency Board and its decision making process.
Ongoing. Council person on Sunline Board; accomplished during development
review of development projects.
Program CIR-2.1.b Initiate consultation and as necessary meet with Sunline staff to identify areas where additional routes and
increased levels and types of transit service are warranted by existing and future development.Ongoing. Coordinated through the development review process.
Program CIR-2.1.c
When reviewing development proposals, consult and coordinate with SunLine and solicit comments and
suggestions on how bus stops and other public transit facilities and design concepts, including enhanced
handicapped access should be integrated into project designs.
Ongoing. Coordinated through the development review process.
Program CIR-2.1.d
When reviewing large-scale development proposals, consult and coordinate with Sunline to encourage the
development of rideshare and other alternative, high occupancy transit programs for employers with
sufficient numbers of employees.
Ongoing. Coordinated through the development review process.
Program CIR-2.1.e
Encourage and proactively support the efforts of SunLine in organizing a Transportation Management
Organization (TMO) among employers to provide an on-going information network, develop a rideshare plan,
and determine opportunities for transit/shuttle operations.
Ongoing. Information network coordinated by City of La Quinta Human
Resources with Sunline for city employees.
Program CIR-2.1.f Encourage SunLine to continue its efforts to utilize the most energy efficient and least polluting
transportation technologies, including fuel cells, hybrid and other advanced technologies.
Ongoing. Councilperson on Sunline Board has authority to advocate for this
program.
Policy CIR-2.2
Encourage reduction of greenhouse has (GHG) emission by reducing vehicle miles traveled and vehicle hours
of delay by increasing or encouraging the use of alternative modes and transportation technologies, and
implement and manage a hierarchy of Complete Street multimodal transportation infrastructure and
programs to deliver improved mobility and reduce GHG emissions.
Complete and ongoing. City has created complete streets and trails, bikability
plans. City expanding guidelines/critera for building of master plan for golf
carts on city streets
A circulation system that promotes and enhances transit, alternative vehicle, bicycle and pedestrian networks.
29
Program CIR-2.2.a
Create an interconnected transportation system that allows a shift in travel from private passenger vehicles
to alternative modes, including public transit, golf carts/NEVs, ride-sharing, bicycling, bicycle-sharing, and
walking. To the extent practicable apply the following: a. Ensure transportation centers that are multimodal,
facilitate changes in travel modes, and are conveniently located. Convenient locations may be in the
vicinities of: 1. Washington/Fred Waring/Via Sevilla 2. Miles/Adams 3 Adams/111/47th 4. 47th/Caleo Bay 5.
Washington/ Calle Tampico 6. Eisenhower/Avenida Montezuma b. Support SunLine bus routes and service,
to include Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) along Highway 111 and along Harrison Avenue. c. Expand golf cart/NEV
routes, and bicycle routes to connect residential and activity centers with transportation centers. d. Support
and encourage community car-sharing to provide "station cars" and/or golf carts/NEVs for short trips
to/from transit centers. e. Include parking spaces for car-share vehicles at convenient locations accessible to
public transit. f. Ensure transit stops are safe and sheltered, with adequate seating, lighting, trash
receptacles, cleaning and maintenance. g. Implement transit-preferential measures such as transit signal
priority and bypass lanes. h. Support "Smart bus" technology, using GPS and electronic displays at transit
stops to provide customers with "real-time" arrival and departure time information. i. Implement bicycle-
preferential measures such as deployment of video detection at traffic signals, and development of bicycle
stations at transportation centers. k. Adopt bicycle parking standards that accommodate at least 5% of
project parking demand at all public and commercial facilities. l. Conduct bicycle and pedestrian safety
educational program to teach drivers, riders, and walkers the laws, riding protocols, routes, safety tips, and
"healthy community" benefits
Ongoing. Working with CVAG and other agencies to implement. Adding bike
lane markings during slurry seal projects. City expanding golf cart/NEV routes
and bicycle routes to connect residential and activity centers with road and
restriping projects
Program CIR-22.b
Modify the Zoning Ordinance to encourage integrated, shared and reciprocal parking design and
management as a means of better matching parking availability with varying parking demand distributed
during the day.
Complete. Zoning Ordinance allows shared parking but does not include
guidance for reciprocal parking design. Reviewed on a case-by-case basis with
design review.
Program CIR-2.2.c
The City's Zoning Ordinance shall be amended to specifically address vehicular and pedestrian
interconnection between adjacent commercial properties in order to facilitate access between adjacent or
nearby businesses and increase efficiency and safety. Zoning Ordinance amendments shall also address
opportunities to provide direct pedestrian access between commercial and adjacent residential development.
Zoning ordinance only provided provisions for connectivity in mixed use
overlay projects. However, staff reviews on a case-by-case basis and
encourages connectivity where possible.
Program CIR-2.2.d
Promote ridesharing programs that shift demand to the greatest available source of unused travel capacity -
empty seats in private vehicles. Require the designation of parking spaces for ride-sharing vehicles at
employment and activity centers in conditions of approval.
Ongoing. The Human Resources Division coordinates potential ridesharing
opportunities for city employees with SunLine.
Program CIR-2.2.e
Adopt a comprehensive parking policy that encourages the use of alternative transportation, including
requiring new commercial and retail developments to provide preferred parking for electric vehicles and
vehicles using alternative fuels.
Building code requires spaces to be marked for Clean Air Vehicles and to be
built for electric vehicle charging capacity. City will continue to follow
guidance of California Building Code (CBC) in requirements for alternative
parking
Program CIR-22.f Modify the Zoning Ordinance to incorporate parking space maximums.Complete. Implemented with 2017 Zoning Text Amendments.
Program CIR-22.g Modify the Zoning Ordinance to recognize and provide a parking credit program for developments that
provide spaces and facilities for golf carts, NEVs and bicycles.
Complete and ongoing. Parking credit program in mixed use overlay develop
a credit program for other developments and include in Municipal Code.
Program CIR-2.2.h
During consideration of the Zoning Ordinance updates, explore opportunities for Transit Oriented
Development Overlay Zones within one-quarter mile radii of intersections where existing or future bus lines
intersect, including at Highway 111/Adams and Highway 111/Harrison Street.
Complete. Mixed Use Overlay adoption in 2016.
Policy CIR-2.3
Develop and encourage the use of continuous and convenient pedestrian and bicycle routes and multi-use
paths to places of employment, recreation, shopping, schools, and other high activity areas with potential for
increased pedestrian, bicycle, golf cart/NEV modes of travel
Case-by-case. City coordinates with CVAG for development of the CVLINK
and Avenue 48 and Music Line
Program CIR-2.3.a
Maintain and periodically update the Circulation element master plan of bikeways, golf cart routes and multi-
use paths, and develop or require the development of secure bicycle and golf cart/NEV storage facilities, and
other supporting facilities which increase bicycle and golf cart/NEV use.
Ongoing. City recently updated golf cart/NEV map and corresponding
municipal code section.
Program CIR-2.3.b
The construction of bikeways shall conform to the Caltrans manual "Planning and Design Criteria for
Bikeways in California." Bikeways shall be a minimum of 6 feet in width. Alternative designs required by
constraints may be acceptable, as approved by the Public Works Director.
Ongoing. Staff ensures conformance based on new and planned bikeways.
30
Program CIR-2.3.c Sidewalks shall be provided on both sides of all arterial, secondary and collector streets, except where there
is a multi-use path on one side.Complete. This is the current standard enforced.
Program CIR-2.3.d
Golf carts shall be permitted on designated routes, as depicted in Exhibit II-7 and Exhibit II-8, and on all
public local streets. Specific street crossings for golf carts from the cove onto collector and arterials shall be
designated by the City Engineer.
Complete. Signs identify golf cart access on arterial streets with 8 ft bike
lanes
Policy CIR-2.4 The City shall set an example for the community in the implementation of ridesharing programs and those
that encourage the use of alternative modes of travel by City employees.
Ongoing. The Human Resources Division coordinates potential ridesharing
opportunities for city employees with SunLine.
Program CIR-2.4.a
To the extent practical, prepare and implement a ridesharing plan for City employees to serve as an example
for area employers. This plan should include meaningful incentives for employees to walk, bike, or rideshare
to complete their work commutes.
Ongoing. The Human Resources Division coordinates potential ridesharing
opportunities for city employees with SunLine. No incentives available.
31
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal SC-1
Policy SC-1.1 Continue to work with the CVWD on water conservation measures.Ongoing. Regular contact with CVWD applications and landscape plans routed to CVWD
for plan check
Program SC-1.1a Review the Landscape Ordinance every two years, and update as necessary to maintain
consistency with State and CVWD standards.
Complete. Currently the landscape ordinance is in compliance with CVWD and State
standards. It is also reported to the state annually.
Program SC-1.1b
Develop joint incentive programs with CVWD for water conservation programs, including
landscaping retrofits for individual homes and master planned projects, irrigation improvements
and indoor plumbing fixtures. Consider allocating City funds to these incentive programs on a
matching basis with CVWD.
No activity.
Policy SC-1.2 Reduce water consumption at a minimum consistent with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan
(also see Air Quality Element).No activity. Review GHG plan to assure water consumption reduction is consistent.
Program SC-1.2a Implement quantifiable water conservation measures at all City facilities.Ongoing. City hall currently implements low flow fixtures in all areas that use water.
Program SC-1.2b Consider financial incentives for new development and existing homes and projects as funds
allow.Complete and ongoing. Incentives are included in the Mixed Use Zoning Overlay
Program SC-1.2c Aggressively pursue grants and other outside funding sources for City-funded and private sector
water conservation improvements.No activity.
Policy SC-1.3 Encourage the use of more environmentally friendly storm water management techniques such as
bioswales, permeable surfaces and other methods as they are developed, in all new development.
Ongoing. Currently the design and development department reviews this in design
review or pre application reviews
Program SC-1.3a The Public Works Department shall prepare and distribute materials on environmentally friendly
storm water management techniques for new development.Ongoing. Handouts displayed and provided at the Hub
Policy SC-1.4 Reduce Greenhouse Gas emissions at a minimum consistent with the Greenhouse Gas Reduction
Plan (also see Air Quality element).
No activity. Encourage applicants to incorporate energy saving measures, solar planels
into developments
Program SC-1.4a Require all new development proposals to demonstrate consistency with the Greenhouse Gas
Reduction Plan.No activity. Add requirement to application submittal.
Program SC-1.4b Revise the Transportation Demand Ordinance to current standards, and implement it with all new
qualifying projects.Complete. Included in Zoning Code update 2017
Program SC-1.4c
Develop programs to encourage and incentivize the installation of energy efficient appliances and
fixtures, green roofs, white roofs and solar panels on residential, commercial, institutional and
resort buildings.
No activity. Since IID is the electricity provider, they have incentives for energy
efficiency for buildings
Policy SC-1.5 All new development shall include resource efficient development principles.Ongoing. Design and Development encourages energy efficiency in design with
applications
Program SC-1.5a All new development shall be constructed to meet or exceed Cal Green Building Codes.Ongoing. The Building division staff plan checks for developments to meet Title 24
codes. 2019 Cal Green Code adopted.
Program SC-1.5b Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide incentives and development standard concessions for
mixed use or energy efficient design.
Complete. PUD ordinance and Mixed Use Overlay was passed to allow for more mixed
use projects.
Program SC-1.5c New development projects shall include vehicular, pedestrian and bicycle connections to the
greatest extent possible, both through the project and connecting adjacent projects.
Ongoing. Encouraged during initial submittals and checked via plan check on a project
by project basis
LIVEABLE COMMUNITY
A community that provides the best possible quality of life for all its residents.
32
Program SC-1.5d New commercial and mixed use projects shall incorporate useable public spaces, and interconnect
those public spaces consistent with resource efficient design principles.
Ongoing. Encouraged during initial submittals and checked via plan check on a project
by project basis
Policy SC-1.6 Expand the City's alternative transportation network.
Ongoing. Planning and Engineering Services consistently working towards expanding
alternative transportation network. Currently golf cart and bike routes are marked with
special markings to alert residents of interconnecting routes. Prepare for autonomous
vehicles and Citywide Active Transportation Plan.
Program SC-1.6a Assess the current gaps in the City's multi-use path and sidewalk system, and program
improvements to connect those gaps into the Capital Improvement Program.Ongoing. City Council includes $25,000 in yearly budget for sidewalks including gaps
Program SC-1.6b Encourage existing walled communities to include pedestrian gates and paths to adjacent
development to improve connectivity.No activity.
Program SC-1.6c Expand the Golf Cart Routes to interconnect throughout the City to the greatest extent possible.Completed. Staff updated the City's Golf Cart Map in late 2020.
Program SC-1.6d Work with SunLine Transit Agency to expand service into La Quinta neighborhoods ahead of
demand.
Ongoing. Interagency review required during development review process with Sunline
to determine where service is needed
Policy SC-1.7 Encourage the retrofitting of existing buildings and projects with resource efficient design
principles to the greatest extent possible.Ongoing and case-by-case
Program 1.7a Amend the Zoning Ordinance to provide incentives for the redevelopment of existing projects to
include residential development, pedestrian and other design features.
Complete. Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance and Mixed Use Overlay was
passed to allow for more mixed use projects.
Program 1.7b
Develop an enhanced program for the processing of entitlements for redevelopment projects
which incorporates substantial resource efficient components, or propose conservers ion to mixed
use.
No activity. Identify potential code amendments that would allow faster development
review process.
Program 1.74c Develop a financial incentive program for creative redevelopment of commercial projects into
mixed use projects, particularly those that provide added economic development to the City.
Complete and Ongoing. PUD ordinance and Mixed Use Overlay was passed to allow for
more mixed use projects. Limitations to financial incentives due to loss of
redevelopment.
Policy SC-1.8 Expand the City's participation in Healthy City programs.Ongoing. Wellness center has programs available for residents
Program SC 1.8a Implement Healthy City principles throughout the community, to the greatest extent feasible.
Ongoing. Maintenance and expansion of bicycle infrastructure. Village Active
Transportation improvements currently constructed. City provides guides for trails and
City park facilities. City provides reduces rebates for Fritz Burns pool and SilverRock
golf course to residents. Prepare Citywide Active Transportation Plan.
Program SC 1.8b Coordinate park and trail improvement plans to assure connectivity between parks and the
neighborhoods they serve.Ongoing. Facilities Department reviews park and trail plans on a monthly basis.
Program SC-1.8c Encourage farmers' markets outside the Village, accessible to all parts of the City.
No activity. Work with the existing certified farmer's market and Community Resources
Department on other opportunities for farmer's market. Delays due to COVID-19 on this
outreach.
Program SC-1.8.d Plan and implement a community garden project at the Civic Center. Monitor its success, and
implement at other City parks if successful.
Ongoing. wellness center has a community garden available for residents. Monitor the
success of the community garden work with Riv Co Resource Conservation District
Program SC-1.8e Work with Desert Sands and Coachella Valley school districts to improve food selection in lunch
programs, exercise programs, and Safe Routes to School programs.No activity. Work with community resources for outreach programs.
33
Policy/Programs Description Status
Goal ED-1
Policy ED-1.1
The Land Use Element shall maintain a balance of land use designations to address
economic needs, meet market demand, and assure a wide range of development
opportunities.
Complete and Ongoing. General Plan Map adopted with General Plan Update in
2013. City considers proposed changes to General Plan land use map with
development projects on a case-by-case basis.
Program ED-1.1.a Use the City's GIS capabilities to annually monitor the remaining capacity of vacant and
under-utilized lands to assure that sufficient inventory exists to address market needs.
Ongoing. Planning maintains GIS database and coordinates with the City
Manager's office on mapping needs.
Program ED-1.1.b
Development proposal review for commercial development shall include consideration of
the proposal's compatibility with surrounding existing uses, its efficient and revenue-
generating use of the land, and its compatibility with the City's Economic Development
Plan
Ongoing. Staff, Planning Commission, and Council review development
proposals and are required to make findings regarding compatibility with
surrounding uses. The City Manager's office analyzes new commercial
development proposals. There is no updated Economic Development Plan.
Policy ED-1.2 Support and assist in the retention of existing businesses, and the recruitment of new
businesses.
Ongoing. City Manager's office conducts regular business outreach and
marketing assistance. There are limited resources to assist existing and new
businesses due to elimination of redevelopment.
Program ED-1.2.a Continue to annually update and implement the City's Economic Development Plan Not updated.
Program ED-1.2.b
Participate, where feasible and justifiable, in public/private partnership or other means
for the retention of existing businesses, and the development of new projects which
generate significant economic activity.
Ongoing. Public/private partnership occur on a case-by-case basis. During the
State mandated business shutdown, the City worked with private businesses on
financial assistance along with Al Fresco program to operate outdoors.
Program ED-1.2.c Focus marketing and publicity efforts on the commercial and resort sectors, as revenue
generation sources.
Ongoing. City Manager's office coordinates with businesses and resorts on
marketing and publicity.
Program ED-1.2.d
Every five years, in the Economic Development Plan, complete an analysis of existing
commercial projects to identify under-performing locations, and develop strategies and
public/private partnership to improve or redevelop these projects.
Ongoing. Monitoring of existing commercial projects and underperforming
locations conducted by City Manager's office.
Program ED-1.2.e
Establish a program to regularly monitor City costs and revenues based on existing
development and projected development allowed under the Land Use Map. Consider
amendments to the Land Use Map to increase revenue generation potential, based on the
cost revenue analysis and sound economic forecasting.
No cost revenue analysis or economic forecasting program established. The
City has adopted a Mixed use Overlay to increase revenue generation potential.
Program ED-1.2.f Improve and enhance the City's application process for commercial development
proposals
Complete and Ongoing. Planning applications have been streamlined. Other
streamline efforts that benefit commercial development proposals include the
2016 Development Code Tune Up and subsequent yearly updates. The City
adopted the Village Build Out Plan EIR to streamline environmental review of
development projects. City is entering its fifth year of implementing full online
entitlement process and enocurages developments to be submitted online.
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
A balanced and varied economic base which provides fiscal stability to the City, and a broad ranger of goods and
services to its residents and the region
34
Policy ED-1.3 Encourage the expansion of the Village as a specialty retail, dining, and residential
destination.
Ongoing. The City Manager's office markets city owned properties for future
development. The City adopted the Village Build Out Plan EIR to streamline
environmental review of development projects. The City adopted Village Code
amendments that allow for a reduction of on-site parking on a case-by-case
basis.
Program ED-1.3.a:
Maintain, in the Zoning Ordinance, standards and guidelines that encourage the
development of a pedestrian-friendly, interconnected neighborhoods with a balance of
residential and commercial development
Complete and Ongoing. A Zoning Consistency Analysis was performed and the
Zoning Map has been brought into compliance with the General Plan map. The
Zoning Code includes standards for pedestrian friendly interconnected
neighborhoods.
Program ED-1.3.b Include the Village in the Mixed Use Overlay in the Zoning Ordinance Complete. Mixed Use Overlay adopted and includes the Village Commercial
Zoning District.
Program ED-1.3.c Continue to sponsor and support special events in the Village and at the Civic Center, as
a means of attracting visitors to the area.
Ongoing. The City leads or supports Village events on a regular basis. 2017
events include Art on Main, Brew in LQ, and Village Make. 2019 events included
Tacos and Tequila, farmers market, Art on Main, and Art Festival. Events
during 2020 were not able to occur, outside of the art festival in the Village.
Policy ED-1.4 Support and facilitate the reuse and redevelopment of commercial projects on Highway
111
Ongoing. Staff coordinate with the auto dealerships on landscape and signage
improvements. The Mixed Use Overlay was adopted that provides
opportunities for redevelopment with a combination of commercial and
residential. The City conducted and completed a visioning effort for the
Highway 111 corridor. City recently sold Highway 111 City property to
Residence Inn by Marriott, which was entitled and currently constructed and
operational.
Program ED-1.4.a As provided in the Land Use Element establish comprehensive standards for Mixed Use
development in commercial zones.
Complete. A Mixed Use Overlay was adopted in 2016 for all commercial
districts.
Program ED-1.4.b
Development proposals for the reuse and redevelopment of existing projects shall be
encouraged to implement creative design, include pedestrian access, and facilitate transit
and alternative transportation.
Ongoing. Planning staff encourages creative designs, pedestrian access and
alternative transportation for all development projects. The Mixed Use Overlay
encourages these design elements for potential projects.
Policy Ed-1.5 Projects proposed on commercial land shall be evaluated for their job creating and
revenue generating potential.
Ongoing. City Manager's office requests fiscal analysis for proposed
commercial developments and Staff considers job creating and revenue
generation during entitlement findings.
Program ED-1.5.a The City may require the preparation of fiscal impact analyses for commercial projects
when deemed appropriate in the application review process.
Ongoing. Staff will require fiscal impact analyses when deemed appropriate for
commercial projects.
Policy ED-1.6 Assure that all revenues due to the City are collected
Ongoing. The Finance Department requires that all revenue due to the City are
collected. The Finance Department currently working to ensure residential
development projects that require remitting mitigation payment to the City are
doing so.
Program ED-1.6.a Establish and maintain a comprehensive program to enforce the payment of transient
occupancy tax, sales tax, and other fees and licenses to the City.
Ongoing. The City ensures collection of payments due to the City. The City
has an existing professional contract to ensure homes used for short term
rentals are licensed and operate in compliance with the City's short term rental
requirements.
Policy ED-1.7
All annexation applications by land owners shall include a fiscal analysis that fully
addresses the fiscal impacts of the proposed annexation. Subsequently, all annexation
applications shall also include a Development Agreement application or other mechanism
that demonstrates how the annexation will be revenue neutral or revenue positive for the
City.
Ongoing. This policy will be applied with annexation requests. There are
currently no annexation requests and limited inquiries to the City.
35
Policy ED-.18 Aggressively lobby for the passage of legislation that restores redevelopment funds to
local jurisdictions, or provides other equivalent economic development tools
Ongoing. The City has an existing contract with a lobbyist consistent with this
policy.
Goal ED-2
Policy Ed-2.1 Actively pursue the build out of the SilverRock Resort
Ongoing. Purchase and Sale Agreement executed with the SilverRock
Development Company for development of the SilverRock Resort. Site
Development Permits have been approved for the 140 room Montage hotel,
200 room Pendry hotel, Golf Course Clubhouse, 10 golf villas, 29 Montage
braded single-family residential units, 66 Pendry branded condominium units,
shared services and meeting facility. Entitlements for Montage and Pendry
have been approved. Grading has started and building permits have been
approved and vertical construction is underway.
Program ED-2.1.a
Through the City's Economic Development Plan, annually review the land use allocation
within SilverRock's Specific Plan to assure that future development meets market need
and generates a long term revenue stream for the City.
Ongoing. The City Manager's office reviews the SilverRock Specific Plan
annually to assure the development meets market need and generates long-
term revenue stream for the City.
Program ED-2.1.b Continue to promote professional and amateur golf tournaments, activities and events
that publicize SilverRock in the local, state and national media.
Ongoing. The City's Manager's Office marketing team assist to promote golf
tournaments and other events on a regular basis.
Policy ED-2.2 Support increased room occupancy at the City's existing hotels and resorts.
Ongoing. The City has created a branding and marketing program to attract
tourists and increase hotel room occupancy. The City has also implemented a
transit occupancy tax incentive program with the City's hotels.
Program ED-2.2.a Continue to participate in co-op marketing and include the City's resorts and hotels in
City-sponsored marketing and advertising efforts.
Ongoing. The City is engages businesses and resorts in City-sponsored
marketing. The City collaborates with Coachella Valley Visitor's Bureau to
promote the City of La Quinta as a tourist destination.
Program ED-2-2.b Incorporate short term vacation rentals into the City's transient occupancy tax revenues Complete. The City has implemented a short term vacation rental program
and collects transient occupancy tax revenues.
Program ED-2.2.c Consider incentive programs for hotel remodeling and refurbishing, tied to increased
transient occupancy tax revenue generation in the future.No action.
Policy ED-2.3 Actively pursue the development of additional hotel properties in all economic ranges, to
accommodate all segments of the visitor market.
Ongoing. Hotel uses are encouraged in commercial districts and in potential
land use amendments. City recently sold City property to Residence Inn by
Marriott, which was entitled and constructed.
The continued growth of the tourism and resort industries in the City
36
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal H-1
Policy H-1.1 Identify adequate sites to accommodate a range of product types, densities, and prices to
address the housing needs of all household types, lifestyles, and income levels.Complete
Program 1.1.a
To address the City’s RHNA allocation for extremely low income households, 26 of the 68 new
units at the Washington Street Apartments will be designated for extremely low income
households. The additional 19 units identified in the RHNA will be given priority either at
Washington Street Apartments, or at projects on sites identified in the Vacant Land Inventory.
Renovation and expansion of Washington Street Apartments was completed in
November 2019, resulting in the rehabilitation of existing 72 units and construction of
68 new units, for a total of 140 units. Twenty-four (24) of the 68 new units were
designated for extremely low income households. The additional 19 units identified in
the RHNA were not constructed. The program will be modified to address the 2022-
2029 RHNA allocation.
Policy H-1.2 Focus housing growth within existing City boundaries until it is necessary to pursue annexation
or development in planning areas for affordable housing.No change
Policy H-1.3
Direct new housing development to viable areas where essential public facilities can be
provided and employment opportunities, educational facilities, and commercial support are
available.
Complete and Ongoing. Added Mixed Use to Zoning in 2017
Goal H-2
Policy H-2.1 Increase housing choices for lower and moderate income households.
Ongoing. Coral Mountain Apartments complete. Washington Street Apartments
construction complete. City Manager's office supports affordable housing efforts and
increasing choices.
Policy H-2.2 Support public, private, and nonprofit efforts in the development of affordable housing.On-going. City Manager's office supports affordable housing efforts.
Policy H-2.3 Pursue a variety of forms of private, local, state, and federal assistance to support development
of affordable housing.On-going. City Manager's office supports affordable housing efforts.
Program H-2.3.a-
Collaborative Partnerships
The City shall meet with parties interested in affordable housing development to discuss types
of incentives available and requirements for obtaining assistance, discuss appropriate sites for
affordable housing, and foster professional collaboration between the City and affordable
housing stakeholders.
The City Manager’s office supports affordable housing efforts and coordinates regularly
with affordable housing partners such as Lift to Rise. The City will continue to assist
affordable housing developers in securing third party financing. During the 2014-2021
planning period, Coral Mountain Apartments was completed with Desert Cities
Development. This program was successful.
Program H-2.3.b-
Affordable Housing Renter-
to-Owner Transition
Low Income Housing Tax Credit (LIHTC) provides federal tax credits for private developers and
investors that agree to set aside all or a portion of their units for low income households. LIHTC
projects can transition from rental to ownership units. The units must remain rentals for 15
years, at which time some projects convert to ownership units. Typically a portion or all of the
rent paid for the 5 years prior to the conversion is put toward the purchase of the unit. This
enables lower income households to invest in the property in which they have been living and
benefit from its appreciation.
Existing stalled condominium and townhome projects are prime opportunities for low income
tax credits to be used for renter-to-owner programs.
Investigation into the use of LIHTCs to finance affordable single-family attached rental
development was not completed.
HOUSING
Provide housing opportunities that meet the diverse needs of the City’s existing and projected population.
Assist in the creation and provision of resources to support housing for lower and moderate income households.
37
Program H-2.3.c-
Affordable Housing Renter-
to-Owner Transition
There are many resources that the City, nonprofits, or for-profit developers may utilize to
subsidize the construction and maintenance of affordable housing.
Information about financial resources and partnership opportunities available for
subsidizing the construction and maintenance of affordable housing was not provided
on the City’s website. However, it continues to be a priority, and City staff plans to
accomplish this task by 2022.
Program H-2.3.d-Sweat
Equity and Shared Equity
Sweat equity and shared equity programs provide lower and moderate income households with
ownership assistance. Sweat equity refers to the exchange of time and effort, usually in the
form of construction activities, for an affordable ownership opportunity.
The City has worked with both Habitat for Humanity and the Coachella Valley Housing
Coalition in the development of sweat equity homes in the past. However, no units
were built in collaboration with the City during the 2014-2021 planning period.
Goal H-3
Policy H-3.1
Remove unnecessary regulatory constraints to enable the construction or rehabilitation of
housing that meets the needs of La Quinta residents, including lower income and special needs
residents.
Complete. Development Code Tune Up in 2017-2020 helped remove unecessary
regulatory constraints.
Policy H-3.2 Coordinate the development of affordable housing with the provision of key utilities to ensure
prompt and adequate service.Ongoing and case-by-case
Policy H-3.3 Incentivize the development of affordable housing to facilitate the development of housing for
the City’s lower and moderate income households.
Complete. Mixed Use added to Zoning in 2017, Affordable housing overlay included in
Municipal Code.
Program H-3.3.a-Priority
Water and Sewer Service
In compliance with state law, the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) must create
procedures to provide priority water and sewer service to lower income residential project. The
law also prohibits the denial or conditioning the approval of service without adequate findings,
and requires future water management plans to identify projected water use for lower income
residential development.
CVWD is responsible for compliance with state law. The City will provide the adopted
Housing Element to CVWD, notify them of changes and future updates, and continue
to coordinate with them in the processing of applications in a timely manner.
Program H-3.3.b-Reduced
Parking Standards
There are several potential opportunities to reduce parking standards for special types of
development in La Quinta. While the City already has special parking standards for multifamily
senior housing, there is potential to further reduce those requirements, particularly for lower
and moderate income senior housing.
The compact, mixed-use character of the Village area may also foster opportunities for parking
reductions or joint-use opportunities. Lower and moderate income households may own fewer
vehicles than above moderate income households, and be more inclined to walk or use public
transportation. Incentives such as reduced parking requirements could be offered for affordable
housing developments.
The City updated Incentive Based Parking Adjustments (Zoning Code Section
9.150.050) in 2017 which allows a reduction in parking spaces of up to fifteen percent,
subject to approval by the Planning Commission. Section 9.150.050.B addresses
opportunities for parking reductions in the Village Build-Out Plan Area, including
potential reductions of fifty percent and other variations subject to approval by the
director. The program is complete.
Program H-3.3-c-
Encourage Lot
Consolidation
Several small lots in the Village Commercial would have improved development potential
through lot consolidation. The City will study, identify, and adopt regulatory incentives to
encourage and facilitate lot consolidation. Potential incentives include fee deferral or
reductions, City--
‐
assisted parcel assemblage and mergers, parking requirement reduction, and
relief from various other development standards that could potentially increase the cost of the
project.
The City completed the La Quinta Village Build-Out Plan and EIR in 2017. Ordinance
No. 553 amended several chapters of the Municipal Code related to development
standards for the Plan area; development standards are provided in Section 9.70.110.
Projects in the Plan area are encouraged to implement the standards and incentives of
Section 9.140.090, the mixed use overlay, which encourages development on lot
assemblages or lots greater than one acre. Per Section 9.140.090.F, mixed use
development can benefit from density bonuses, modified parking requirements,
expedited permit processing, and fee reductions. Parking requirement reductions and
variations in the Village Build-Out Plan area are addressed in Section 9.150.050.B.
The regulatory portion of this program is complete.
Goal H-4
Policy H-4.1 Protect the quality of La Quinta's neighborhoods through the rehabilitation of both affordable
and market-rate homes.
Ongoing. Rehabilitation of Washington Street Apartments (affordable housing)
completed in 2019.
Create a regulatory system that does not unduly constrain the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing
affordable to all La Quinta residents.
Conserve and improve the quality of existing La Quinta neighborhoods and individual properties.
38
Policy H-4.2 Promote financial and technical assistance to lower and moderate income households for
housing maintenance and improvements.
Ongoing. City provides information on the HERO program. City staff to conduct
research on technical assistance available by agencies.
Policy H-4.3 Encourage the retention and rehabilitation of existing single-family neighborhoods and mobile
home parks that are economically and physically sound.
Ongoing. City staff to conduct research on opportunities to preserve single-family
neighborhoods and mobile home parks.
Policy H-4.4 Enhance neighborhoods that presently provide affordable housing with drainage, lighting and
landscape amenities, and parks and recreation areas.
Ongoing. Landscape improvements opportunities identified in the City's Capital
Improvement Program. Parks are distributed throughout the City.
Program H-4.4.a-Housing
Condition Monitoring
To better understand the City’s housing needs the quality and condition of the housing stock
must be inventoried on a regular basis. The inventory should focus on older neighborhoods,
such as those south of Calle Tampico, west of Washington Street, and north of Highway 111.
There was no activity during the 2014-2021 planning period. City staff will conduct a
housing condition survey in the 2022-2023 Fiscal Year.
Program H-4.4.b-County of
Riverside Senior
Residential Rehabilitation
The Minor Senior Home Repair program allocates grants up to $250 per year for lower income
seniors for minor housing repairs, such as painting doors or trim, or repairing a window. The
Enhanced Senior Home Repair Program provides major rehabilitation and repair for low income
seniors, providing a one--
‐
time grant for repairs to homes owned and occupied by seniors
and/or persons with disabilities. The maximum level of assistance for this program is $3,000
per year
The City does not operate its own senior home repair program; however, the City
Manager’s office coordinates with lower income households and refers them to the
Riverside County Economic Development Agency, as appropriate.
Program H-4.4.c-County of
Riverside Home Repair
Grant
The County of Riverside Economic Development Agency Home Repair Program provides lower
income households with up to $6,000 for home repairs such as a new roof, new air--
‐
conditioner, or a handicap ramp. As a jurisdiction in Riverside County, lower income La Quinta
households are eligible for this grant
To the extent that these County programs have been funded, the City has referred
homeowners to the appropriate County staff.
Program H-4.4.d-
Rehabilitation Resources
List
Lower and moderate income homeowners may need assistance in affording important home
repairs and improvements. The City can assist these households by compiling and sharing a
listing of local, state, and federal programs offering rehabilitation assistance.
City staff has not prepared a list of rehabilitation resources for home repairs and
improvements but does coordinate with lower income households and refers to
appropriate agencies for services.
Goal H-5
Policy 5.1 Provide the regulatory framework to create an environment in which housing opportunities are
equal.
Complete and ongoing. City complies with all housing laws. City staff to update
Municipal Code as needed.
Policy 5.2 Encourage and support the enforcement of laws and regulations prohibiting discrimination in
lending practices and in the sale or rental of housing.
Ongoing. The City complies with all housing laws. City distributes County fair housing
information.
Policy 5.3 Encourage support services for the Coachella Valley’s senior and homeless populations through
referrals and collaborative efforts with non--
‐
profits and other jurisdictions.
Ongoing. City participates in CVAG's homelessness programs and provides financial
assistance to MVK and CVRM for homeless prevention services.
Policy 5.4 Assist in the creation of a continuum of care for the homeless population and those
transitioning into permanent housing.
Ongoing. City participates in CVAG's homelessness programs. The City has housed
three homeless families in Coral Mountain apartments through the Homeless
Prevention Program.
Policy 5.5 Improve quality of life for disabled persons by facilitation relief from regulatory requirements
that may create barriers to accessible housing and promoting universal design.Complete. Amended Zoning for reasonable accommodation.
Program H-5.5.a-Regional
Facilities for the Homeless
Continue to support and collaborate with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments
Homelessness Committee efforts to create a regional homeless facility that will provide housing
as well as supportive services. The Strategic Plan created by the Homelessness Committee
establishes a continuum of care for the Coachella Valley.
The City participated in and collaborated with CVAG's Homelessness Committee to
provide supportive programs for homeless people in the Coachella Valley. After the
closure of Roy’s Desert Resource Center in 2017, CVAG contracted with a non-profit to
operate its Coachella Valley Housing First program and initiated the CVHEART program
to coordinate and expand regional homelessness efforts. The City worked with
homeless shelters and re-housing programs directly and through CVAG.
Provide equal housing opportunities for all persons.
39
Program H-5.5.b-
Transitional Housing and
Permanent Supportive
Housing
Transitional housing typically accommodates homeless people for up to two years as they
stabilize their lives and does not meet emergency needs. Transitional housing includes training
and services that are vital for rehabilitating and enriching the lives of the formerly homeless.
Transitional housing facilities provide families and individuals with a safe place within which to
rebuild their lives and prepare for independence. Permanent supportive housing is affordable
housing with on- or off-site services that help a person maintain a stable, housed, life.
Several zoning ordinance amendments were completed in the 2014-2021 planning
period. The amendments define homeless shelters and transitional shelters; allow
transitional and supportive housing with a conditional use permit in the Medium
Density, Medium-High Density, and High Density Residential zones; and allow
transitional shelters with a conditional use permit within Regional Commercial and
Major Community Facilities zones. Emergency shelters are allowed in all commercial
zones. This program was completed.
Program H-5.5.c-Fair
Housing Referrals
Fair housing organizations provide dispute resolution and legal assistance to tenants and
landlords in conflict. Such services are particularly important for lower and moderate income
households unable to afford counsel.
City staff referred residents to the County Fair Housing Council as needed. The City
website provides information on the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County (FHCRC)
and how to contact the FHCRC.
Program H-5.5.d-Directory
of Services
While numerous services are available to special needs and lower income households, it can be
difficult to readily have access to these resources. A directory provides the contact information
necessary to seek housing assistance.
The City website includes directories of affordable rental and ownership housing
developments, as well as information about senior home purchase loan programs,
personal finance resources, and other housing resources. City housing staff will
continue to add additional information as needed.
Goal H-6
Policy H-6.1 Promote higher density and compact developments that increase energy efficiency and reduce
land consumption.Complete. Zoning added Mixed Use and PUD in 2017.
Policy H-6.2 Facilitate housing development and rehabilitation that conserves natural resources and
minimizes greenhouse gas emissions.
Complete. GHG Reduction Plan adopted with General Plan includes conservation
measures.
Policy H-6.3 Encourage and enforce green building regulations or incentives that do not serve as constraints
to the development or rehabilitation of housing.
Complete. Building Code is adopted per State requirements. 2020 Update includes
solar and green building requirements.
Policy H-6.4 Focus sustainability efforts on measures and techniques that also assist the occupant in
reducing energy costs; therefore reducing housing costs.
Complete. GHG Reduction Plan adopted with General Plan includes conservation
measures.
Policy H-6.5
Use and encourage emerging technologies to reduce high demands for electricity and natural
gas including use of passive solar devices and where feasible other renewable energy
technologies (e.g., biomass, wind, and geothermal).
No activity required. Title 24 Energy Code required building design address energy
efficiency. 2020 Code requires residential solar.
Program H-6.5.a-Green
and Sustainable La Quinta
Program
Continue to implement the Green and Sustainable La Quinta Program.
The Green and Sustainable La Quinta Program includes providing information on the
City’s website about home improvement programs, financial resources and rebates,
recycling programs, water and energy conservation measures, and other resources
that facilitate resource conservation and greenhouse gas emission reductions. The City
adopted and enforces the 2019 California Building Code and California Green Building
Code that require design standards that encourage solar protection to directly result in
energy conservation. The City also implements the policies and programs of its
Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan and General Plan.
Program H-6.5.b-Energy
Conservation Partners
In working toward a sustainable La Quinta, the City and its residents will need to collaborate
with utilities and service providers. Partnerships with the Coachella Valley Water District,
Imperial Irrigation District, Southern California Gas, Burrtec Waste and Recycling Services,
Sunline Transit District, Coachella Valley Association of Governments, Southern California
Association of Governments and other entities will be an important component of making La
Quinta a more livable city.
The City coordinates with utility companies to promote and implement energy
conservation programs in residential construction. The City website includes
descriptions of and contact information for home improvement energy conservation
measures and financing programs, including rebates, offered by SoCalGas, Imperial
Irrigation District, CVWD, and Burrtec Waste and Recycling. Development plans and
construction activities are closely coordinated with utilities during planning and
operational purposes.
Provide a regulatory framework that facilitates and encourages energy and water conservation through sustainable site planning,
project design, and green technologies and building materials.
40
Program H-6.5.c-Imperial
Irrigation District Programs
The Imperial Irrigation District (IID) is proactive in energy savings via conservation programs,
product rebates, and general tips. An average home owner can save up to 10 percent on
energy/energy bills by taking advantage of IID programs. Home owners can utilize the free
“Check Me!” program, which checks the refrigerant charge and airflow of their air
conditioning/heating units. IID also offers a rebate on the purchase of higher efficiency air
conditioning units, high efficiency refrigerators, programmable thermostats, and ENERGY STAR
equipment. City staff has held several meetings with IID representatives to discuss
opportunities for collaboration to conserve energy in La Quinta, including water management
opportunities for golf courses and golf-oriented communities.
The City’s Going Green website provides information on IID programs and rebates
through links to their websites, including the Residential ENERGY STAR product rebate
program. IID continues to offer free, in-home residential and commercial energy
audits and follow-up lists of recommendations intended to reduce electricity
consumption and costs. The City promotes these programs through meetings with
Homeowners’ Association boards and various City sponsored events to encourage La
Quinta residents and businesses to sign up for energy audits and reduction programs.
However, IID’s future is currently unknown; in addition to continuing to recommend
IID as a conservation resource, the City will need to explore additional opportunities
for residents to acquire energy savings via conservation programs, products, rebates,
and general tips.
Program H-6.5.d-
Weatherization Assistance
The Federal Department of Energy’s Weatherization Assistance Program, in conjunction with
state and local programs, provide low or no cost weatherization and insulation services to
reduce the heating and cooling costs for low income households.
The City website and distribution materials/flyers describe and provide contact
information for Imperial Irrigation District’s free energy audits for homes, home
energy efficiency surveys, financing programs and tax credits, and rebates and
incentive programs. The City also promotes SoCalGas’ free energy and water
conservation kit for residential customers and no-cost, energy-saving home
improvements for income-qualified homeowners and renters. This program is
successful
41
Program/Policy Description Status
Goal PR-1
Policy PR-1.1 Expand or modify community services to meet the health, well-being, and
recreational needs of the community.
Ongoing. Additional trailhead improvements at the top of the Cove and new event site
at SilverRock are completed. X Park currently near completion with anticipated March
2022 opening. Space planning contract for Fritz Burns Park being approved. Re-
purposing of existing skate park at La Quinta Park to another amenity planned for FY
2022/23. Contract for the Cultural Campus Improvements and Village Master Plan
starting.
Policy PR-1.2 Continue to provide a minimum standard of 5 acres of parkland for every 1,000
residents.
Complete. Not including SilverRock, the City maintains over 236 acres of parks and
open space. Current population is 41,000 or 201 acres. Staff to continue to monitor
park acreage with new development
Program PR-1.2.a Annually review parks and recreational facilities as part of the City's long-range
planning.
Ongoing. Facilities Department does this monthly and examined as part of the annual
budget process. X Park and SilverRock public parks part of long-term planning efforts.
Program PR-1.2.b
Identify those areas where residents live more than one-half mile from a public or
private park, nature preserve, or other recreational area and identify acquirable
parcels of land that could be developed into parks within underserved areas.
Complete and Ongoing. Facilities Department utilizes a map from the 2007
Community Services Master Plan for capital improvement projects that identifies park
service radius. North La Quinta and Cove communities are adequately served. Private
communities are not directly served and include their own private amenities. There
have been no significant population changes since the 2007 Community Services
Master Plan.
Policy PR-1.3 Identify all visible financing mechanisms for the funding of construction,
maintenance, and operation of parks and recreational facilities.
Complete and Ongoing. Facilities Department monitors funds available from Quimby
park fees, Art in Public Places funds, and the General Fund.
Policy PR-1.4 The design and construction of parks and recreational facilities shall comply with all
the development standards that apply to privately constructed facilities.Ongoing. Construction plans reviewed through Engineering and Building permitting
Policy PR-1.5 Coordinate with partner agencies and neighboring communities to expand
recreational opportunities and access to recreational facilities.
Ongoing. City works with Desert Recreation District, Boys and Girls Club, YMCA,
County, Coachella Valley Water District, and youth sports associations to expand
recreational opportunities. Coordinate additional trailhead improvements at the top of
the Cove with CVWD. Expanded pool operations with DRD for year-round operations.
Program PR-1.5.a Continue to work with adjacent cities and the County of Riverside on the Regional
Bicycle Trails Master Plan and future regional sports facilities
Ongoing. Staff works with CVAG on the regional non-motorized transportation plan
and CV Link. Continue Bike lane Striping and pavement management. Coordinate bike
lane continuity with adjacent cities. Staff works with CVAG on Avenue 48 Art and
Music Line Project currently in design
PARKS RECREATION TRAILS
A comprehensive system of parks, and recreation facilities and services that meet the active and passive needs of all
residents and visitors.
42
Program PR-1.5.b Continue to explore the potential for the joint use of recreational facilities with the
Desert Sands and Coachella Valley Unified School District.
Complete. The City has a partnership with the Desert Sands Unified School District for
joint use of Sports Complex and Paige Middle School fields. City also works with
County and DRD for shared events and programs.
Program PR-1.5.c Continue to work with adjacent cities and the Coachella Valley Water District to
utilize the Whitewater Channel as an intercity trail opportunity.
Ongoing. City and CVAG working together to begin La Quinta portion of CV Link
improvements. The connection under the Adams street bridge has already been
completed. Dune Palms bridge will accommodate CV Link as well as planning for
additional connectors.
Policy PR-1.6 Encourage patterns of development that promote safe pedestrian and bicycle access
to schools, public parks, and recreational areas.
Ongoing. Pavement Management Plan that is coordinated with our Capital
Improvement Program. Planning staff, Planning Commission and Council evaluate
development projects to address safe connections.
Policy PR-1.7 Identify opportunities to integrate public health concerns into parks and trails
planning.
Ongoing. Park and trail planning implementation ensures positive public health
outcomes.
Policy PR-1.8 Promote a healthy and active lifestyle for all residents.Ongoing. Wellness Center facility and programs promote this policy. Community
Resources provides events and programs for healthy and active lifestyles.
Program PR-1.8.a Strive to provide residents with affordable access to fitness facilities such as the
public pool, fitness center, and golf course.
Complete. SilverRock golf access available at discounted rate to residents at $55
versus $135 nonresident. Wellness Center fitness facility discounted at $75 for
membership. Fritz Burns pool discounted at $2 for children and $3 for adults.
Community Resources provides events and programs for healthy and active lifestyles.
Fritz Burns pool was expanded to year-round operations.
Program PR-1.8.b Promote the consumption of healthy foods by encouraging healthful foods to be sold
at concessions in all public buildings and parks.
Ongoing. At annual meeting with sports association staff encourages health food
options for concession stands. Human Resources provides opportunities and programs
for staff and Community Resources provides opportunities and programs for the
public.
Program PR-1.8.c Promote and improve public access to farmers markets and grocery stores that sell
fresh produce and healthy foods.
Complete. Farmer's Market in Old Town initiated by City of La Quinta. Fresh produce
and healthy foods available in various stores near Cove and Highway 111. City staff
participates with a booth at the Farmers Market.
43
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal AQ-1
Policy AQ-1.1 Coordinate with the South Coast Air Quality Management District to assure compliance with air
quality standards.Case by case basis when AQMD Permits are required.
Program AQ-1.1.a Particiapate in monitoring, managing, and eforcing SCAQMD rules for criteria pollutants, TACs,
GHGs and all other regional air pollutants of concern.
CEQA mitigation measures when required. Dust control plans when grading
occurs. Implementation of the City of La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan
Policy AQ-1.2 Work to reduce emissions from residential and commercial energy use by encouraging
decreased consumption and increased efficiency.Implementation of the 2016 building code
Program AQ-1.2.a
Work directly with the major utility providers, including The Gas Company, Imperial Irrigation
District and the Coachella Valley Water District to develop incentives and rebates to encourage
energy savings, subject to funding availability.
Contact with utilities has been sporadic.
Program AQ-1.2.b Encourage Imperial Irrigation District to diversify and expand the use of alternative energy
sources. No activity.
Policy AQ-1.3 Work to reduce emissions from mobile sources by encouraging a decrease in the number of
vehicle miles traveled.
Implementated by following Muni Code Chapter 6.12 Mobile Source Air
Pollution Reduction
Program AQ-1.3.a Work with Sunline Transit Agency to expand public transportation routes.SunLine is included in project reviews, and provides comments.
Program AQ-1.3.b Encourage public and private schools to establish alternative transportation programs for
students.No private schools have been developed. Village traffic calming completed.
Program AQ-1.3.c Adopt and implement a Transportation Demand Management Ordinace for businesses with 50
or more employees.
Fulfilled by Ordinace No. 550. Muni Code Chapter 9.180 "Transportation
Demand Management"
Program AQ-1.3.d Expand routes for golf carts and other neighborhood electric vehicles and plan for access and
recharging facilities at retail, recreational, and community centers.
Highway 111 Corridor Plan completed. Includes golf cart access and
parking. Potential for golf cart path extensions to include CV Link.
Program AQ-1.3.e Expand pedestrian and bicycle routes and provide safe and convenient access to retail,
recreational, and community centers.Highway 111 Corridor Plan completed. Traffic calming in Village completed.
Program AQ-1.3.f
Facilitate mixed use development concepts in specific identified areas of the community to allow
the combination of residential and non-residential uses, such as live-work-shop designs, as
described in the Land Use Element.
Village Master Plan and EIR complete. Highway 111 Corridor Plan includes
mixed use opportunities.
Program AQ-1.3.g
Where permitted by the Land Use plan, and where appropriate, encourage high density
residential development within walking distance to commerical, educational and recreational
opportunities.
Highway 111 Corridor Plan completed. Centre @ La Quinta residential
project approved next to Walmart.
AIR QUALITY
A reduction in all air emissions generated within the City.
44
Policy AQ-1.4 Protect people and sites that are especially sensitive to airborne pollutants (sensitive receptors)
from polluting point soucres. Case by case basis when CEQA is processed for projects.
Program AQ-1.4.a Uses such as manufacturing, auto body shops, and other point source polluters should be
reasonably separated from sensitive receptors.Ordinance 550 modified auto uses and limits them to commercial zones.
Policy AQ-1.5 Ensure all construction activities minimize emissions of all air quality pollutants. All development projects must be in complaince with CEQA requirements.
Program AQ-1.5.a All grading and ground distrubance activities shall adhere to established fugitive dust criteria. All development projects must be in complaince with CEQA requirements.
Program AQ-1.5.b Fugitive Dust Control Plans shall be reviewed and approved for development projects. All development projects must be in complaince with CEQA requirements.
Policy AQ-1.6 Proposed development air quality emissions of criteria pollutants shall be analyzed under CEQA.All development projects must be in complaince with CEQA requirements.
Policy AQ-1.7 Greenhouse gas emissions associated with a development project shall demonstrate adherence
to the City's GHG Reduction Plan. No activity. Enforced through CEQA.
Policy AQ-1.8 The City shall adopt a comprehensive greenhouse gas reduction plan that sets forth reduction
targets, timelines, and measures to achieve targets. Adopted with General Plan. Update required.
Program AQ-1.8.a Implement the GHG reduction measures detailed in the GHG Reduction Plan. No activity.
Program AQ-1.8.b Establish a comprehensive database to maintain an inventory of city government resource use
and conservation with interdepartment access.No activity. work with CM and Facilities to inventory resources
Program AQ-1.8.c
Coordinate with Burrtec to establish and implement programs that divert wastes from landfills,
such as the composting of food waste and plant debris and the expanded re-use and recycling
of materials, to reduce methane emissions.
Annual reporting per State requirements.
45
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal EM-1
Policy EM-1.1 Strongly encourage conservation of energy sources.case-by-case
Program EM-1.1.a Review and amend, as appropriate, Zoning Ordinance procedures and standards to include site
orientation, solar control and use of passive heating and cooling techiniques. No activity
Policy EM-1.2 Support the use of alternative energy and the conversion of traditional energy sources to
alternative energy.Ongoing.
Program EM-1.2.a
Encourage installtion of alternative energy devices on new and existing development. Programs
may include City-funded incentive programs; matching fund programs with IID, The Gas
Company and alternative energy providers, as well as other programs as they become
available.
CIP - 201313 - Citywide Preventative Maintenance Plan Improvements - Phase
II is meant to install newer systems to more energy efficient resulting in energy
cost reductions.
Program EM-1.2.b
As funding and applicability allows, incorporate Compressed Natural Gas (CNG), hybird or
electric vehicles into the City fleet as vehicles are replaced with a target to complete the
converson by 2035.
City is researching implementation of hybrid and electric vehicle fleet to meet
2035 target.
Program EM-1.2.c Continue participation in the Sunline Transit Agency, and promote the use of alternative fuel
technologies for its buses.
Sunline Transit Agency continues to provide public transportation via two
service lines, Line 111 and Line 70. All busses are CNG and there is a hydrogen
cell bus.
Program EM-1.2.d As appropriate, incorporate LED or other energy-efficient lighting in signals and lights
throughout the City. Implemented.
Program EM-1.2.e Explore opportunities to provide a CNG and other alternate fuel fueling station in the City.No activity
Program EM-1.2.f Implement, as appropriate, energy-efficient improvements in City buildings and facilities using
Energy Efficiency Conservation Block Grant or similar funds.
CIP - 201313 - Citywide Preventative Maintenance Plan Improvements - Phase
II is meant to install newer systems to more energy efficient resulting in energy
cost reductions.
Goal EM-2
Policy EM-2.1 Preserve mineral resources identifed by the Department of Mines and Geology to the greatest
extend possible. No activity
Program EM-2.1.b
Review and amend the Zoning Ordinanace as appropriate to require that mineral extraction
occuring in the city be subject to the requirements of the California Surface Mining and
Reclamation Act (SMARA), and the City's Zoning procedures.
Section 16.02.010 provides for this
ENERGY AND MINERAL RESOURCES
The sustainable use and management of energy and mineral resources.
The conservation and thoughtful management of local mineral deposits to assure the long-term viability of limited resources.
46
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal Bio-1
Policy Bio-1.1 Continue to implement the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP).Enforced by the City through building permits.
Program Bio-1.1.a Building permits shall not be issued for projects required to pay the MSHCP local development
mitigation fee until such time as the fee has been paid to the City.Enforced by the City through building permits.
Program Bio-1.1.b
For lands identifed by the MSHCP as slated for conservation within the City, the Planning
Department will refer land owners and developers to the Coachella Valley Association of Government
and/or Coachella Valley Conservation Commission for guidance and permitting assistance.
City completed participation in the CVCC bighorn sheep barrier EIR. Future
construction planned.
Program Bio-1.2.c Prior to the issuance of any ground disturbing permit for fallow lands outside Conservation areas,
the City will require a protocol compliant survey for burrowing owl. Enforced through CEQA process.
Policy Bio-1.3 Publicly owned conservation lands, including those for the MSHCP, shall be designated as Open
Space on the Land Use Map. Currently designated as such.
Policy Bio-1.4 Comply with the requirements of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA)Enforced through CEQA process.
Program Bio-1.4.a
Throughout the City, prior to the removal of vegetation on development site between March and
August, a qualified biologist shall determine wheter any bird nests or young occur on the site, and if
they occur, provide mitigation measures compliant with the MBTA.
Enforced through CEQA process.
Policy Bio-1.5
Comply with the regulatory requirements of the California Department of Fish and Game, the US
Army Corps of Engineers, and the Regional Water Quality Control Board as they relate to "waters of
the State of California" and/or "waters of the United States."
Enforced through CEQA process.
Program Bio-1.5.a Prior to the initiation of any project within any defined blueline stream as identifed on Exhibit III-3,
the City will require that consultation and/or permitting by CDFG be demonstrated in writing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Policy Bio-1.6 Native desert plant materials should be incorporated into new development project to the greatest
extent possible. Invasive, non-native species shall be discouraged. Enforced through landscape plan checks
Policy Bio-1.7 Sensitive habitat areas, including conservation areas for the MSHCP, should be buffered from urban
development to the greatest extent possible. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program Bio-1.7.a Use zoning standards and the design review process to assure that adequate buffers are provided in
environmentally sensitve areas. Enforced through CEQA process.
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
The protection and preservation of native and environmentally significant biological resources and their habitats.
47
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal CUL-1
Policy CUL-1.1 All reasonable efforts should be made to identify archaeological and historic resources in the City. Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program CUL-1.1.a
Any development application for a vacant site, or a site previously or currently used for agricultural
purposes, shall be accompanied by a Phase I archaeological and/or historic analysis conducted by a
qualified archaeologist. Such analysis shall be paid for by the project proponent.
Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program CUL-1.1.b
City staff will maintain open channels of consultation with local Native American tribes, the Eastern
Information Center at the University of California, Riverside, the Historical Society, and the
Coachella Valley History Museum.
Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process, SB18 and AB52.
Program CUL-1.1c City staff shall maintain a database of known prehistoric resources in the City. No Activity
Program CUL-1.1.d The City shall update its historic inventory at a minimum of every 10 years, subject to available
funding.
Ongoing. The City will begin work on a RFP process for an update to its historic
inventory.
Policy CUL-1.2 Assure that significant identified archaeological and historic resources are protected.Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program CUL-1.2.a The City will be proactive in the protection of archaeological and historic resource preservation
funding, including regional, state and federal funds.No Activity
Program CUL-1.2.b Consider the use of all potential sources of funding for archaeological and historic resource
preservation funding, including regional, state and federal funds.No Activity
Program CUL-1.2.c Encourage owners of qualified historic buildings to take advantage of tax credits and other programs
for the preservation and restoration of historic structures. Case-by-case
Program CUL-1.2.d Continue to implement the Historic Preservation Ordinance.Complete and ongoing. Historic preservation ordinance amended in 2016
Policy CUL-1.3 Educate the public about the City's history and paleontology. Ongoing. The La Quinta Museum hosts historical programs
Program CUL-1.3.a Encourage property owners and others to nominate qualified properties to the City's historic
inventory. Case-by-case
Program CUL-1.3.b Continue to support efforts at curation and exhibition of the City's history.Ongoing. Implemented by La Quinta Museum. City sponsors a permanent
exhibit of the City's History at City Hall beginning in 2017.
Program CUL-1.3.c Consider expanding collections to include paleontological resources. Ongoing. Implemented by La Quinta Museum.
Program CUL-1.3.d Encourage the Desert Sands and Coachella Unified School Districts to include local history and tribal
history in the community. No Activity
Policy CUL-1.4 Make all reasonable efforts to identify paleontological resources in the City.Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process on a case by case basis.
CULTURAL RESOURCES
The protection of significant archaeological, historic, and paleontological resources which occur in the City.
48
Program CUL-1.4.a
Any development application for a vacant site located on soils identified as Lake Cahuilla Beds or
Pleistocene shall be accompanied by a Phase I paleontogical analysis conducted by a qualified
geologist or paleontologist.
Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program CUL-1.4.b
As part of the geotechnical analysis conducted for grading and building permits, soil borings shall be
examined by a qualified geologist or paleontologist to assure that no Pleistone or older soils occur at
depth in areas to be excavated. Monitoring shall be required if Pleistone or older soils will be
impacted by excavations.
Ongoing. Conditions of Approval will be required for development projects that
require soil borings for geotechnical analysis to be examined by qualified
geologists or paleontologists.
Policy CUL-1.5 All reasonable efforts should be made to preserve paleontological resources in the City. Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
Program CUL-1.5.a Significant paleontological resources identified on a site shall be professionally collected, catalogued
and deposited with a recognized repository. Ongoing. Enforced through CEQA process.
49
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal WR-1
Policy WR-1.1 Support the Coachella Valley Water District in its efforts to supply adequate domestic water to
residents and businesses. Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Program WR-1.1.a
The City shall continue to implement its Water Efficient Landscaping Ordinance and Building Codes,
and update them as needed to meet or exceed State standards for water efficiency and
conservation.
Ongoing. Water efficient landscape ordinance updated in 2016.
Implemented with new or revised landscape plans.
Program WR-1.1.b Continue to work with CVWD to implement independent and joint programs, rebates, and discounts
that promote water conservation.No activity. No resources available to supplement CVWD rebate programs.
Policy WR-1.2 Support the Coachella Valley Water District in its efforts to recharge the aquifer.Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Program WR-1.2.a Support CVWD's efforts to increase recharge at its La Quinta facility and elsewhere in its district. Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Program WR-1.2.b
Work with CVWD to implement new or improved recharging techniques in golf course and lake
design, turf and agricultural irrigation recharging techniques in golf course and lake design, turf and
agricultural irrigation methods, and the use of tertiary treated water for irrigation and other uses.
CVWD continues to expand tertiary treatment. Project approvals limit water
feature and similar high consumption uses.
Policy WR-1.3 Support the Coachella Valley Water District in its efforts to expand tertiary treated (i.e.
reclaimed)water distribution. Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Program WR-1.3.a Work with CVWD to provide tertiary treated water for future recreational facilities and landscaping
irrigation to the greatest extent possible. Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Policy WR-1.4 Protect stormwater from pollution and encourage its use to recharge the aquifer.Ongoing. City enforces NPDES requirements
Program WR-1.4.a Implement federal, regional and local standards pertaining to the discharge and treatment of
pollutants in surface water for all development projects. Ongoing. City enforces NPDES requirements
Program WR-1.4.b Coordinate with CVWD in its review of projects which impact drainage channels.Ongoing. Continue coordination with CVWD
Program WR-1.4.c Require on-site retention for new development projects to the greatest extent possible, to provide
added recharge of the aquifer.Ongoing. New developments are required to provide on-site retention.
Policy WR-1.5 Development within drainage areas and stormwater facilities shall be limited to recreational uses
such as golf courses, lakes, sports or play fields and similar uses.
Ongoing. Watercourse or open space designation allow only for golf
courses, lakes, sports or play fields and similar uses.
Policy WR-1.6 Encourage the use of permeable pavements in residential and commercial development projects.Case-by-case. Encouraged when development applications are submitted.
WATER RESOURCES
The efficient use and conservation of the City's water resources.
50
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal OS-1
Policy OS-1.1 Identify and map lands suitable for preservation as passive and active open space.Ongoing. None identified beyond what is shown in GP Land Use Map.
Program OS-1.1.a Identify lands suitable for preservation as natural open space on the General Plan Land Use map. Ongoing. None identified beyond what is shown in GP Land Use Map.
Program OS-1.1.b Confer with adjoining communities and other responsible agencies to periodically review and update
information on regional open space, and to coordinate preservation efforts.Ongoing. Coordinated through CVAG
Policy OS-1.2 Continue to develop a comprehensive multi-purpose trails network to link open space areas. Interactive trail map in place. Participation in CV Link ongoing
Program OS-1.2.a
Coordinate with, and obtain approval from, local utility providers, including the Coachella Valley
Water District, to use flood control and utility easements as a trails network which links open space
and recreation areas.
Ongoing. CV Link plans under way on CVWD bank.
Program OS-1.2.b Explore opportunities for additional trails connectivity adjacent to and along watercourses, irrigation
canals, and flood control improvements.Ongoing. CV Link plans under way on CVWD bank.
Policy OS-1.3
The City shall encourage community involvement and volunteerism in open space maintenance and
improvement as a means to leverage local funds, improve open space and increase public
awareness of the City's Open Space areas.
Ongoing. City supports local programs that increase public awareness of
the City's Open Space areas and support trail clean up activities.
Goal OS-2
Policy OS-2.1 Unique and valuable biological resources should be preserved as open space, to the greatest extent
practical. Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Policy OS-2.2
Where appropriate, geological hazard zones, including but not limited to earthquake fault lines,
areas susceptible to liquefaction, floodways, and unstable slopes should be preserved as open
space.
Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process. Site-specific
geotechnical reports required
Policy OS-2.3 Encourage the preservation of open space in privately owned development projects.Ongoing. Implemented with individual development applications.
Program OS-2.3.a Utilize flexible development standards, density incentives, and/or other means to encourage the
provision of open space in new planned developments. Complete. Planned Unit Development entitlements requires Open Space.
Goal OS-3
Policy OS-3.1
To the greatest extent possible, prohibit development on lands designated as open space which are
elevated and visually prominent from adjacent developed areas or are located within or in close
proximity to areas identified as critical wildlife habitat.
Complete and ongoing. Implemented through the Hillside Preservation
Ordinance.
Program OS-3.1.a Continue to implement the Hillside Preservation Ordinance. Ongoing. City legally required to enforce this ordinance.
Program OS-3.1.b Minimize the loss of open space resources. Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Policy OS-3.2
Any development that is permitted within areas designated as Open Space should minimize grading
for structures and access and should be visually subordinate to and compatible with surrounding
landscape features.
Ongoing. Implemented through Hillside Preservation Ordinance.
OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION ELEMENT
Preservation, conservation and management of the City's open space lands and scenic resources for enhanced recreational,
environmental and economic purposes.
Good stewardship of natural open space and preservation of open space areas.
Preservation of scenic resources as vital contributions to the City's economic health and overall quality of life.
51
Policy OS-3.3 Explore and utilize a variety of measures to preserve privately owned properties within hillside and
alluvial fan areas, including private covenants, deed restrictions, and land transfers.Ongoing. Implemented through Hillside Preservation Ordinance.
Program OS-3.3.a
Identify agencies and property owners which hold fee simple title to properties located in hillside and
alluvial fan areas, and encourage agreements which assure that such lands remain undeveloped in
perpetuity.
Ongoing. Implemented through Hillside Preservation Ordinance.
52
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal N-1
Policy N-1.1 Noise standards in the City shall be consistent with the Community Noise and Land Use
Compatibility scale described in this Element.
Complete. Ordinance No. 550 was adopted on November 15, 2016. The
amendment was implemented in order to comply with the General Plan
2035 EIR.
Program N-1.1.a Propose to City Council an amendment to the Municipal Code (Section 9.100.210) to allow 65 dBA
CNEL for sensitive land uses.Complete. Implemented by Ordinance No, 550.
Policy N-1.2
New residential development located adjacent to any roadway identified in Table IV-4 as having a
building out noise level in excess of 65 dBA shall continue to be required to submit a noise impact
analysis in conjunction with the first Planning Department application, which demonstrates
compliance with the Community Noise and Land Use Compatibility scale.
Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Policy N-1.3
New non-residential development located adjacent to existing residential development, sensitive
receptors or residentially designated land, shall be required to submit a noise impact analysis in
conjunction with the first Planning Department application, which demonstrates that it will not
significantly impact the adjacent residential development or residential land.
Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Program N-1.3.a Provide accommodation for special events in the public interest, such as concerts and festivals,
which may temporarily exceed the maximum allowable decibel level.
Ongoing. Enforced through Special Event Permit process. Applied to
American Express golf tournament and concerts, etc.
Policy N-1.4
All Mixed Use projects shall be required to submit a noise impact analysis in conjunction with the
first Planning Department application, which demonstrates compliance with the City's noise
standards.
No activity. No mixed use projects reviewed.
Policy N-1.5 All noise impact analysis will include, at a minimum, short-term construction noise and noise
generated by the daily operation of the project at build out. Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Policy N-1.6 The City may require remedial noise control plans and/or improvements for areas experiencing noise
in excess of adopted City standards.No activity. Not needed at this time.
Program N-1.6.a Remedial improvements will be included in the Capital Improvement Program.No activity
Policy N-1.7 Noise impact analysis shall be included in all City Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) and developer-
required roadway widening projects to demonstrate compliance with City noise standards. Ongoing. Implemented through CEQA process.
Policy N-1.8 Maintain a truck route plan restricting truck travel to arterial roadways. Ongoing. Enforced by Engineering Division
NOISE
A healthful noise environment which complements the City's residential and resort character.
53
Policy/Program Description Status
Goal GEO-1
Policy GEO-1.1 The City shall maintain and periodically update an information database and maps that identify local
and regional geologic and seismic conditions.No activity
Program GEO-1.1.a
The City shall periodically confer with the California Division of Mines and Geology, Riverside County,
neighboring communities, and other appropriate agencies to improve and routinely update the
database.
No activity
Policy GEO-1.2
The City shall continue to require that development in areas subject to rockfall, landslide,
liquefaction and/or other geotechinical hazards described in this Element, prepare detailed
geotechnical analyses that include mitigation measues that minimize such hazards.
Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Policy GEO-1.3 The City shall require that development in areas subject to collapsible or expansive soils conduct soil
sampling and laboratory testing and implement mitigation measures that minimize such hazards. Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Program GEO-1.3.a
The Building and Safety Department shall review and determine the adequacy of soils and/or other
geotechnical studies conducted for proposed projects and enforce the implementation of mitigation
measures.
Ongoing. Currently implemented.
Policy GEO-1.4 The City shall require that all new structures be built in accordance with the latest adopted version
of the Building Code. Ongoing. Enforced by Building Division.
Policy GEO-1.5 The City shall continue to require that structures that pose a safety threat due to inadequate seismic
design are retrofitted or removed from use, according to law.Case-by-case.
Policy GEO-1.6 The City shall coordinate and cooperate with public and quasi-public agencies to ensure that major
utilities continue to be functional in the event of a major earthquake.Ongoing. Enforced through EOP.
Program GEO-1.6.a
The City shall maintain working relationships and strategies between the Public Works Department,
utility providers, and other appropriate agencies to strengthen or relocate utility facilities and take
other appropriate measures to safeguard major utility distribution systems.
Ongoing. Enforced through EOP.
SOILS AND GEOLOGY
Protection of the residents' health and safety and of their property, from geologic and seismic hazards.
54
Policy/Program Description Status
GOAL FH-1
Policy FH-1.1 The City shall monitor and update its 2009 Master Drainage Plan every 5 years, or as needed, to
reflect changes in local and regional drainage and flood conditions. Public Works currently monitors
Policy FH-1.2 The City shall coordinate efforts to update floodplain mapping in all areas of the City, particularly
those where potential flood impacts are not yet known.Public Works currently monitors
Policy FH-1.3 The City shall continue to implement development standards that provide for a reduction in runoff
from developed lands and are consistent with local and regional stormwater management plans. Implemented as development applications are submitted.
Program FH-1.3.a
New development shall continue to be required to construct on-site retention/detention basins and
other necessary stormwater management facilities that are capable of managing 100-year
stormwater flows.
Implemented as development applications are submitted.
Policy FH-1.4 The City shall coordinate with CVWD regarding the implementation of measures which protect bridge
crossings from the scouring and erosive effects of flooding.Continued coordination with CVWD.
Program FH-1.4.a The Public Works Department will work with CVWD to inspect bridge crossings for scour damage
during and after significant flooding events.Continued coordination with CVWD.
Program FH-1.4.b The City shall coordinate with the appropriate state agencies to participate in the state’s bridge
scour inventory and evaluation program.Public Works currently monitors
Policy FH-1.5 The City shall coordinate with CVWD to minimize the potential for the occurrence of inundation from
levee or water tank failure, including seismically induced inundation.Continued coordination with CVWD.
Program FH-1.5.a
The City shall annually request a status update from the Coachella Valley Water District of their
monitoring of the structural safety of the levees around Lake Cahuilla and along the Coachella Valley
Stormwater Channel and the La Quinta Evacuation Channel.
Continued coordination with CVWD.
Program FH-1.5.b
The City shall annually request a status update from the Coachella Valley Water District of their
monitoring of the structural integrity of above-ground water tanks and reservoirs, and where
needed, the implementation of bracing techniques to minimize potential structural damage and/or
failure.
Continued coordination with CVWD.
Policy FH-1.6
Major drainage facilities, including debris basins, retention/detention basins, and flood control
facilities shall provide for the enhancement of wildlife habitat and community open space to the
greatest extent feasible, while still maintaining their functional qualities.
landscaping required in new projects
Policy FH-1.7 New critical facilities shall not be constructed within the boundaries of the 100-year flood plain.Village Master Plan of Drainage updated in 2016-2017.
Policy FH-1.8 Development within drainage areas and stormwater facilities shall be limited to recreational uses
such as golf courses, lakes, sports or play fields, and similar uses.
Watercourse or open space designation allow only for golf courses, lakes,
sports or play fields and similar uses.
Policy FH-1.9
The City shall periodically monitor and update, as needed, evacuation routes to ensure safe ingress
and egress for residents and emergency vehicles in the Cove and southern neighborhoods in the
event of a major flood.
Implemented by Emergency Operations Plan
FLOODING AND HYDROLOGY
Protection of the health, safety and welfare of the community from flooding and hydrological hazards.
55
Policy/Program Description Status
GOAL HAZ-1
Policy HAZ-1.1 The storage, transport, use and disposal of hazardous materials shall comply with all City, County,
State and federal standards.
Ongoing. Burrtec Waste & Recycling Services provides an e-waste disposal
program and the Riverside County 24-hour hotline provides the LQ
residents with proper disposal facilities.
Program HAZ-1.1.a Continue to coordinate with all appropriate agencies to assure that local, State and federal
regulations are enforced.Ongoing. Coordinated through fire department
Program HAZ-1.1.b
Development plans for projects which may store, use or transport hazardous materials shall
continue to be routed to the Fire Department and the Department of Environmental Health for
review.
Ongoing. Implemented through the CEQA process.
Program HAZ-1.1.c The City’s Emergency Services Division shall maintain a comprehensive inventory of all hazardous
waste sites within the City, including underground fuel storage tanks.
County of Riverside Environmental Health Hazardous Waste division keeps
inventory for City.
Policy HAZ-1.2 To the extent empowered, the City shall regulate the generation, delivery, use and storage of
hazardous materials.
Ongoing. Implemented through Fire & Police, County Environmental
Health. County of Riverside Environmental Health Hazardous Waste
division keeps inventory for City. Regulation happens at initial permitting
process only, but not on regular basis.
Program HAZ-1.2.a All facilities which produce, utilize, store or transport hazardous materials shall be constructed in
strict conformance with all applicable Building and Fire Codes.Ongoing. Implemented through building plan checks
Policy HAZ-1.3 Support Household Hazardous Waste disposal.Ongoing. coordinate with burrtec
Program HAZ-1.3.a Continue to work with the County to assure regular household hazardous waste disposal events are
held in and around the City.Regular events scheduled in cooperation with Burrtec, CVAG.
Program HAZ-1.3.b Educate the City’s residents on the proper disposal of household hazardous waste through the City’s
newsletter and by providing educational materials at City Hall.
Ongoing. Burrtec provides an e-waste disposal program and the Riverside
County 24-hour hotline provides La Quinta residents with proper disposal
facilities.
HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Protection of residents from the potential impacts of hazardous and toxic materials.
56
Policy/Program Description Status
GOAL ES-1
Policy ES-1.1
The City shall continue to work with the Riverside County Fire Department to accurately forecast
future needs and provide adequate and timely expansion of services and facilities based on service
capabilities and response times.
Ongoing. Fire Department participates in project review with City staff for
development projects.
Program ES-1.1.a Maintain the Fire Facilities component of the City’s Development Impact Fee to assure that new
development pays its fair share of future fire stations.Ongoing. Currently enforced.
Policy ES-1.2 New development proposals shall continue to be routed to the Fire Department to assure that
project access and design provide for maximum fire and life safety.Ongoing. Fire Department participates in project review.
Policy ES-1.3 The City shall continue to work with the Fire Department to maintain or improve the current ISO
rating in order to reduce insurance premiums for City residents and businesses.
Fire Department coordinates fire rating with ISO, based on facilities and
response times.
Policy ES- 1.4 The City shall coordinate with adjacent jurisdictions to consider joint funding of fire facilities based
upon service area.Complete and ongoing. Existing reciprocal agreements in place
Policy ES-1.5 The City shall continue to work with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to accurately forecast
future needs and provide adequate and timely expansion of services and facilities.
Ongoing. City does this on an annual basis and with new development
proposals.
Policy ES-1.6
New development proposals shall continue to be routed to the Police Department to assure that
project access and design provide for defensible space and maximum crime prevention while
maintaining City design standards and codes.
Ongoing. Police Department participates in project review.
Policy ES-1.7
The City shall coordinate with the Sheriff’s Department to assure that community-based policing and
community programs that encourage resident participation are implemented to the greatest extent
possible.
Ongoing. Part of contract review with sheriff. A community service officer
is contracted for this purpose.
Policy ES-1.8 The City should maintain an emergency response program consistent with State law, and coordinate
with surrounding cities, Riverside County and other emergency service providers.
Ongoing. Enforced by the EOC and quarterly Operational Area Plannign
Committee Meetings.
Program ES-1.8.a Periodically review and update the Emergency Operations Plan to address the City’s growth in
population and built environment, as well as new emergency response techniques.Ongoing. Implemented by Public Safety Division
Program ES-1.8.b
Coordinate all emergency preparedness and response plans with neighboring cities, the County of
Riverside, local health care providers and utility purveyors, and the California Emergency
Management Agency (CalEMA).
Ongoing. Implemented through EOC and quarterly Operational Area
Planning Committee Meetings.
Program ES-1.8.c Continue coordinated training for City Emergency Response Team members, Community Emergency
Response Team (CERT) volunteers, and related response agency personnel.
Ongoing. Continued training at City. The basic 20 hour FEMA CERT training
course is offered year round thru Riverside County Office of Emergency
Services
Policy ES-1.9 Critical facilities, such as police and fire stations, hospitals and clinics, schools and utility
substations, should be sited away from identified hazard areas.Complete. General Plan Land Use Map implements this.
Program ES-1.9.a Review and amend, as appropriate, development regulations to ensure critical facilities are not
located in an area identified in the General Plan as a hazard area.Case-by-case
Policy ES-1.10 The City should provide education programs and literature to its residents, business people and
property owners on earthquake preparedness, fire safety, flooding hazards and other emergencies.
Ongoing. Public Safety Division within the Community Resources
Department is responsible for this.
EMERGENCY SERVICES
An effective and comprehensive response to all emergency service needs.
57
Program ES-1.10.a
Maintain and distribute emergency preparedness information and handouts at City Hall, the Senior
Center and Library, and at community events. Additionally, the City’s website and other media
resources shall be utilized to inform and educate residents and business owners on emergency
preparedness matters.
Ongoing. Public Safety Division within the Community Resources
Department provides information and training to the public.
Program ES-1.10.b
The Emergency Services Division will continue to coordinate city-wide emergency response exercises
as appropriate, as well as training programs for City staff and Community Emergency Response
Team (CERT) volunteers, and will publicize training sessions to City residents and business owners.
Ongoing. Continued training at City. The basic 20 hour FEMA CERT training
course is offered year round thru Riverside County Office of Emergency
Services
58
Policy/Program Description Status
GOAL UTL-1 Domestic water facilities and services which adequately serve the existing and long-term needs of the City.
Policy UTL-1.1 The City should coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District to assure that sufficient water
supplies are available to sustain current and future development.Ongoing. CVWD participates in project review.
Program UTL-1.1.a
Work with the Coachella Valley Water District to expand the availability of tertiary treated water, non-
potable canal water, and encourage its use for landscape irrigation purposes, especially for irrigating
golf courses and other large landscaped areas.
Ongoing. CVWD continues to expand tertiary treatment. Project approvals
limit water features and similar high consumption uses.
Program UTL-1.1.b
Continue to work with CVWD on water conservation programs (such as landscaping conversion and
smart irrigation control) to reduce domestic water use, which will result in the need for fewer
domestic water facilities and services to adequately serve the existing and long-term needs of the
City.
Ongoing. Water efficient landscaping ordinance; building code
requirements. All landscape plans must be approved by CVWD. Water
efficiency certification is required of landscape businesses.
Policy UTL-1.2 The City should encourage the conservation of water.
Ongoing. Water efficient landscaping ordinance; building code
requirements. All landscape plans must be approved by CVWD. Water
efficiency certification is required of landscape businesses.
Program UTL-1.2.a
Develop programs, both in conjunction with the Coachella Valley Water District and independently,
to allow and encourage the retrofitting of existing water-intensive appliances and irrigation systems
in existing development.
No Activity. Limited resources to support these programs.
Program UTL-1.2.b City and private sector development projects shall implement water efficient landscaping plans
which meet or exceed current water efficiency standards.
Ongoing. Water efficient landscaping ordinance; building code
requirements. All landscape plans must be approved by CVWD. Water
efficiency certification is required of landscape businesses.
Policy UTL-1.3 New development shall reduce its projected water consumption rates over “business-as-usual”
consumption rates.
Ongoing. Water efficient landscape ordinance requires water efficiency.
2020 Building Code expands water efficiency requirements.
Policy UTL-1.4
Review and amend Development Standards to require that all new development demonstrate a
reduction of domestic water consumption equivalent to, or exceeding, the CalGreen Tier One
standards in effect at the time of development.
2020 Building Code expands water efficiency requirements.
GOAL UTL-2 Sanitary sewer facilities and services which adequately serve the existing and long-term needs of the City.
Policy UTL-2.1 All new development should be required to connect to sanitary sewer service.Ongoing. This is a requirement.
Program UTL-2.1.a
Review and amend Development Standards and Review Procedures to ensure coordination with the
Coachella Valley Water District and assurance that existing sewer service along with the extension of
sewer service is capable of meeting the needs of current and forecasted development.
Ongoing. All new projects located in proximity to sewer are required to
connect or expand sewer systems in order to be part of the exisiting sewer
system.
Policy UTL-2.2 Septic systems for the treatment of sewage should be replaced with sanitary sewer service
throughout the City.
All new projects located in proximity to sewer are required to connect or
expand sewer systems in order to be part of the exisiting sewer system.
Conitnued coordination with CVWD regarding status of septic tanks.
Program UTL-2.2.a Coordinate with the Coachella Valley Water District and encourage the elimination of septic systems
where they occur within the City.
All new projects located in proximity to sewer are required to connect or
expand sewer systems in order to be part of the exisiting sewer system.
Conitnued coordination with CVWD regarding status of septic tanks.
WATER, SEWER, & UTILITIES
59
Policy/Program Description Status
GOAL PF-1 Public facilities and services that are available, adequate and
convenient to all City residents.
Policy PF-1.1 The City shall expand or modify municipal services to meet the needs of the community Ongoing. Annually with City Budget
Policy PF-1.2 Periodically evaluate the demand for municipal services and facilities, and include construction and
expansion of these facilities to assure timely completion.Ongoing. Implemented through DIF and CIP. Annually with City Budget
Program PF-1.2.a The City will annually review municipal facilities as part of its Capital Improvement Program
planning.Ongoing. CIP updated annually.
Policy PF-1.3 The City shall identify all viable financing mechanisms for the funding of construction, maintenance
and operation of municipal facilities.Ongoing. Implemented for each CIP project.
Program PF-1.3.a The Development Impact Fee program shall be monitored regularly to assure it is providing current
and effective funding contributions to the City.Ongoing. DIF program evaluation is currently in progress.
Policy PF-1.4 The design and construction of municipal facilities shall comply with all the processes and
development standards that apply to privately constructed facilities.Ongoing. Implemented as projects are constructed.
Policy PF-1.5 The City shall continue to coordinate with the County of Riverside to assure that library facilities and
services are expanded as demand warrants.
Ongoing. Community Resources Department regularly coordinates with
the library
Policy PF-1.6 The City shall coordinate with the Desert Sands and Coachella Valley Unified School Districts and
encourage the Districts to plan for and construct new schools to meet demand.Ongoing. Community Resources coordinates with school districts
Program PF-1.6.a Development proposals will continue to be routed to the appropriate District for review and
comment early in the planning and entitlement process.
Ongoing. School Districts are provided project plans and opportunity to
comment.
Program PF-1.6.b The City shall continue to support the payment of school impact fees by all eligible new
development projects.Ongoing. School fees must be paid prior to building permit issuance.
Program PF-1.6.c The City shall modify the Land Use Map to show new school facilities as Major Community Facilities
as new schools are developed.Ongoing. Included in Land Use Map.
Policy PF-1.7
The City shall continue to explore the potential for the joint purchase or use of recreational facilities
with the Desert Sands and Coachella Valley Unified School Districts, as well as the Coachella Valley
Recreation and Park District.
Ongoing. Public Works Department currently does this.
PUBLIC FACILITIES
60
CITY OF LA QUINTA - HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL PROGRESS REPORT-
2021 CALENDAR YEAR
The Housing Element Annual Progress Report (APR) was prepared to identify the
City’s progress in satisfying its share of the regional housing needs and Housing
Element programs. This report was prepared to be consistent with the guidelines
by the State Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD). The
APR includes the following information:
1. Housing Development Applications Submitted (Table 1)
a. Includes data on housing units and developments for which an
application was submitted and deemed complete during the 2021
Calendar Year;
b. Applications are for discretionary entitlements or building permits.
Table 1
2021 Housing Development Applications Submitted
New Building
Permit
Applications
New Entitlement
Project
Applications*
Single Family
Detached 430 646
Single Family
Attached 13 0
2-4 Units 0 0
5+ Units 0 0
Mobile Homes 0 0
Total Number
of Units
443 646
*Entitlement project applications received in 2021 include the following:
1. Avenue 58 Townhomes – 82 units
2. Tract 38083 Griffin Ranch – 37 units
3. Barton Tract 38316 – 392 units
4. Andalusia Tract 38188 – 50 units
5. Cantera – 85 units
ATTACHMENT 3
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2. Annual Building Activity Report Summary (Tables 2 and 3)
a. Includes data for very low, low, moderate and above moderate-income
housing and mixed-income projects;
b. Includes data on net new housing units and developments that have
received an entitlement, building permit or certificate of occupancy
during the 2021 Calendar Year.
Table 2
2021 Annual Building Activity Report Summary
Very Low
Income
Low
Income
Moderate
Income
Above
Moderate
Income
Total
Number of
Units
Single
Family
Detached
0 0 0 269 269
Single
Family
Attached
0 0 0 0 0
2-4 Units 0 0 0 0 0
5+ Units 0 0 0 0 0
Mobile
Homes
0 0 0 0 0
Total
Number of
Units
0 0 0 269 269
Table 3
Accessory Dwelling Unit Activity
Number of
Applications Received
Number of Permits
Issued
10 8
3. Regional Housing Needs Allocation Progress (Tables 4 & 5)
a. Provides a summary of permitting activity in the current planning cycle
(2014-2021);
b. Includes permitting activity, by affordability, for the 2021 Calendar
Year.
62
The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) prepared a Regional
Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) to identify the housing needs for each
jurisdiction within the SCAG region. SCAG, through the RHNA process assigned
La Quinta a share of the region’s new housing units that should be constructed
in the 2014-2021 planning period to satisfy regional housing needs. SCAG
determined the City’s share of RHNA to be 364 units.
Table 4
Total RHNA Need by Income 2014-2021
Very Low Low Moderate Above
Moderate
Total
91 61 66 146 364
25% 16% 18% 40% 100%
Table 5
City’s Progress in Meeting its Share of RHNA for Period 2014-2021**
Reporting
Year
Very Low Low Moderate Above
Moderate
Total
2014 36 138 2 0 176
2015 -- -- -- -- --
2016 -- -- -- -- --
2017 0 0 0 102 102
2018 68 4 123 195
2019 0 0 6 131 137
2020 0 0 0 195 195
2021
(January
through
October)
0 0 0 203 203
Total Units 104 138 12 754 1,008
Projected
Need
(RHNA)
91 61 66 146 364
Remaining
Need 0 0 54 0 54
** The 5th Cycle ended in October 2021 therefore, units issued after October
were not included in this cycle’s RHNA count but will be included in next
cycle’s count.
63
4.Sites Identified or Rezoned to Accommodate Shortfall Housing Need
a.Includes information regarding a shortfall of housing sites identified in
the housing element, an unaccommodated need of sites or identification
of additional sites;
b.The Housing Element does not identify any of these sites.
5.Program implementation status
a.Includes status/progress of housing element program and policy
implementation;
b.This information is included in Attachment 2.
6.Commercial development bonus approved
a.Pertains to commercial development that has agreed to contribute
affordable housing through a joint project or two separate projects
encompassing affordable housing where a development bonus has been
implemented through an agreement with the City;
b.The City does not have any projects in this category to report for
Calendar Year 2021.
7.Locally owned lands from the Housing Element Sites Inventory
a.Cities are required to include a listing of sites owned by the locality that
were included in the housing element sites inventory and were sold,
leased, or otherwise disposed of during the reporting year;
b.The City has no such sites.
8.Locally Owned Surplus Sites
a.Cities are required to create an inventory of surplus lands and all lands
in excess of its foreseeable needs, if any, located in all urbanized areas
and urban clusters, as designated by the United States Census Bureau,
within the jurisdiction of the city that the city or any of its departments,
agencies, or authorities owns or controls;
b.The City has no such sites.
9.Local Early Action Planning (LEAP) Reporting
a.Recipients of LEAP grants shall annually report on the status of
proposed uses on those funds;
b.A breakdown and status of those funds are as follows:
i.Housing Element Update Consultation ($70,000) – Task Complete;
ii.Rezoning/Upzoning Analysis ($40,000) – Task Currently Ongoing;
iii.Sample Site Planning Affordable Housing ($40,000) – Task
Currently Ongoing.
64
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1
City of La Quinta
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING: March 8, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE TENTATIVE TRACT MAP
2021-0002 AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004 FOR A NEW 8,337
SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL CONDOMINIUM BUILDING ON VACANT LOT IN
CALEO BAY PARK COMMERCIAL CENTER; CEQA: DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT HAS DETERMINED THE PROJECT IS CONSISTENT WITH EA 2004-
528; LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 48 AND CALEO BAY DRIVE
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to approve Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002 (TTM 38062) and
Site Development Permit 2021-0004 subject to the Findings and Conditions of
Approval and find the project consistent with previously adopted Mitigated
Negative Declaration for Environmental Assessment 2004-528.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The proposed project consists of a new 8,337 square foot (sf) commercial
single story building on a vacant pad within an 0.83 acre existing,
partially built out commercial center on the northwest corner of Avenue
48 and Caleo Bay Drive (Attachment 1).
The proposed Tentative Tract Map is to subdivide the new building for
condominium purposes to create six individually owned tenant spaces
within the building, and to revise three parcels within the center to allow
for the new building to be on its own parcel with associated parking.
The new building will be the third of five planned commercial buildings
within the commercial center. Two previous buildings were entitled,
constructed, and operational, and included construction of all offsite
improvements, parking, and landscaping.
In order to approve the project, the Planning Commission must make
findings relating to architectural design, site design, landscape design,
and for the project’s consistency with the zoning, General Plan and
Subdivision Map Act. (Attachment 2)
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
Caleo Bay Park Commercial Center (Center) was originally approved under
Parcel Map 31248 for the area bounded by Caleo Bay, Avenue 48, and
65
Washington Street (Attachment 3). The map subdivided the property into 7
lots, with the existing Walgreen’s being the first building constructed. On
November 23, 2004, the City of La Quinta Planning Commission approved
SDP2004-825 and Environmental Assessment (EA) 2004-528 which approved a
second commercial building within this center, a 10,000 sf office building which
was constructed and is currently filled with multiple tenants (ex: Cork & Fork,
Old Fashioned Barbershop, and Caleo Bay Orthodontics). This approval also
included construction of the offsite improvements, parking lots, and landscaping
for the entirety of the Center, and three (3) vacant pads to be ready for future
entitlement and construction. SDP reviews are required for each of the
buildings that would be constructed on the vacant pads.
The applicant is requesting SDP approval for architecture, site and landscape
design of the proposed building on one of these vacant pads (Attachment 4).
The applicant is also requesting TTM approval to revise the parcels within the
Center to ensure this building and future building are within their own parcel
and have associated parking and for the new office building to be comprised of
individually owned commercial condominiums (Attachment 5).
Site Development Permit
Architectural Design
The applicant is proposing a Contemporary Mediterranean architectural style
that is similar and compatible with the other existing buildings within the Center
(Attachment 4, Page 7). The project uses similar color palette, stone veneer,
and roof caps, and incorporating pop outs, varying wall planes, and roof lines.
The building meets all development standards of the underlying Community
Commercial (CC) zone, including height and setback standards. The building
has a maximum height of 30’ for portions of the site, below the 40’ height limit
within the CC zone, with a lower building height of 21’-8” within the first 150’
from Avenue 48 to meet City Image Corridor development standards.
Site Design
The proposed building fits onto an existing vacant pad within the Center. The
project fits the layout approved under previous entitlement and utilizes all of
the existing built-out infrastructure in the Center, such as utilities, circulation
access, and parking. No off-site improvements are needed.
Landscaping
Although the Center has existing perimeter landscaping, additional landscaping
adjacent and surrounding the new building is proposed. The project landscaping
includes a combination of trees, shrubs, accents, and groundcover that are
drought tolerant and compatible with landscaping found throughout the City
66
and found throughout the Center (Attachment 4, Page L1). The plant palette
includes Mexican Fan Palms, Purple Lantana, and Agave. The Mexican Fan
Palms are incorporated in a manner consistent with the existing commercial
building in the Center.
Parking
The total required parking for the entire Center has already been constructed,
which is comprised of a total of 198 parking spaces, including 32 covered
parking spaces (Attachment 4, Page 1). The Center has sufficient parking for
the 8,377 sf proposed building, and will include parking directly adjacent to the
building.
Tentative Tract Map
The applicant requests Tentative Tract Map approval to subdivide the building
for condominium purposes and revise the parcel lot lines within the Center.
The map would do two things:
1)Create six (6) individually owned tenant spaces for the new building,
ranging in size from 1,065 sf to 1,800 sf
2)Revise three (3) parcels within the Center to allow for the new building
to be on its own parcel with associated parking.
Staff has reviewed and ensured consistency with the Subdivision Map Act per
the findings (Attachment 2), subject to Conditions of Approval.
AGENCY AND PUBLIC REVIEW
Public Agency Review
The applications were distributed to City staff and outside agencies. All written
comments received are on file and available for review with the Design and
Development Department. All applicable comments have been adequately
addressed and/or incorporated in the recommended Conditions of Approval.
Public Notice
This project was advertised in The Desert Sun newspaper on February 25,
2022, and mailed to all property owners within 500 feet of the site. No written
comments have been received as of the date of this writing. Any written
comments received will be handed out at the Planning Commission hearing.
67
FINDINGS
In order to approve the project, the Planning Commission must make findings
relating to architectural design, site design, landscape design, CEQA
compliance, and for the project’s consistency with the zoning and General Plan.
(Attachment 2 – SDP and TTM findings)
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The La Quinta Design and Development Department has determined that this
project is consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration (EA 2004-528)
adopted by the La Quinta Planning Commission on November 23, 2004, via
Resolution 2004-091. The build out of the entire center was analyzed as part of
this EA, and this proposed project is consistent with build out analyzed.
Prepared by: Carlos Flores, Senior Planner
Approved by: Danny Castro, Design and Development Director
Attachments: 1. Project Information
2. TTM and SDP Findings
3. Vicinity Map
4. Site Development Permit Plan Set
5. Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
68
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT
MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062) AND SITE
DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004 FOR A NEW
8,337 SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL
CONDOMINIUM BUILDING ON VACANT LOT IN
CALEO BAY PARK COMMERCIAL CENTER ON
NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 48 AND
CALEO BAY DRIVE
CASE NUMBERS:
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
APPLICANT: DR. STEVE PHAN
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta,
California did, on March 8, 2022, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to
consider a request by Dr. Steven Phan for approval of a Site Development
Permit and Tentative Tract Map for a new 8,377 square foot commercial
condominium building and revision of existing parcels located on northwest
corner of Avenue 48 and Caleo Bay Drive more particularly described as:
APN 643-200-040, -041, & -042
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a
public hearing notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on February 25, 2022, as
prescribed by the Municipal Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to
all property owners within 500 feet of the site; and
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all
testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be
heard, the Planning Commission did make the following mandatory findings
to justify approval of said Tentative Tract Map:
1.Tentative Tract Map 38062 is consistent with the La Quinta General
Plan. The Tentative Tract Map is consistent with the Community
Commercial land use designation as set forth in the General Plan.
69
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
Project: Caleo Bay Park
Adopted:
Page 2 of 5
2.The design and improvement of Tentative Tract Map 38062 is
consistent with the La Quinta General Plan with the implementation
of recommended conditions of approval to ensure consistency for
the suites proposed on the lots created herein.
3.The design of Tentative Tract Map 38062 is not likely to cause
substantial environmental damage, nor substantially and avoidably
injure fish or wildlife or their habitat. The La Quinta Design and
Development Department has determined that this project is
consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration (EA 2004-528)
adopted by the La Quinta Planning Commission on November 23,
2004, via Resolution 2004-091. The build out of the entire center
was analyzed as part of this Mitigated Negative Declaration, and
this proposed project is consistent with build out analyzed.
4.The design of Tentative Tract Map 38062 and type of improvements
are not likely to cause serious public health problems, insofar as the
project will be required to comply with all laws, standards and
requirements associated with sanitary sewer collection, water
quality and other public health issues.
5.The design and improvements required for Tentative Tract Map
38062 will not conflict with easements, acquired by the public at
large, for access through or use of property within the proposed
subdivision. All roadway improvements, easements, if any and
surrounding improvements will be completed to City standards.
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all
testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be
heard, said Planning Commission did make the following mandatory findings
pursuant to Section 9.210.010 of the Municipal Code to justify approval of
said Site Development Permit:
1.Consistency with General Plan
The proposed development is consistent with the General Plan land
use designation of General Commercial. The City’s General Plan
policies relating to the General Commercial designation encourage
commercial uses in the City and the proposed use maintains those
policies. The proposed project is consistent with:
70
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
Project: Caleo Bay Park
Adopted:
Page 3 of 5
- Goal ED-1 as it will contribute to a balanced and varied
economic base which provides fiscal stability to the City, and
a broad range of goods and services to its residents and the
region.
- Program ED-1.1.b as it considers the proposal’s compatibility
with surrounding existing uses, as this is a continuation of an
existing commercial center.
- Goal LU-2.1 in that the project design incorporates high
quality design that complements and enhances the City. The
architecture and landscaping are consistent with rest of the
City and rest of the commercial center itself.
2.Consistency with Zoning Code
The proposed development, as conditioned, is consistent with the
development standards of the City’s Zoning Code in terms of site
plan and landscaping. The Site Development Permit has been
conditioned to ensure compliance with the Zoning Code’s
development standards, including standards for parking lot design,
amount of parking required, and height standards, including City’s
image corridor standards. The development meets all development
standards of the underlying Community Commercial zone.
3.Compliance with California Environmental Quality Act
The La Quinta Design and Development Department has determined
that the project is consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration
(EA 2004-528) adopted by the La Quinta Planning Commission on
November 23, 2004, via Resolution 2004-091. The build out of the
entire center was analyzed as part of this Mitigated Negative
Declaration, and the proposed project is consistent with build out
analyzed.
4.Architectural Design
The proposed project, as conditioned, is consistent in design with
the Zoning Code, with development in the Community Commercial
zone, and with development within the existing commercial center.
The architectural design of the project, including but not limited to
the architectural style, scale, building mass, materials, colors,
architectural details, roof style, and other architectural elements, are
compatible with surrounding development and with the quality of
design prevalent in the City.
71
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
Project: Caleo Bay Park
Adopted:
Page 4 of 5
5.Site Design
The site design of the project, including architectural style, features,
materials, and color palette, and other site design elements are
compatible with surrounding development and with the quality of
design prevalent in the Community Commercial zone and the City.
6.Landscape Design
The proposed project is consistent with the landscaping standards
and plant palette and implements the standards for landscaping and
aesthetics, including drought tolerant desert landscaping, established
in the General Plan and Zoning Code.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Planning Commission
of the City of La Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings
of the Planning Commission in this case; and
SECTION 2. That the above project is determined to be consistent with the
Mitigated Negative Declaration (EA 2004-528) adopted by the La Quinta
Planning Commission on November 23, 2004, via Resolution 2004-091; and
SECTION 3. That it does hereby approve Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
(TTM 38062), for the reasons set forth in this Resolution and subject to the
attached Conditions of Approval [Exhibit A].
SECTION 4. That it does hereby approve Site Development Permit 2021-
0004, for the reasons set forth in this Resolution and subject to the attached
Conditions of Approval [Exhibit B]; and
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of
the City of La Quinta Planning Commission, held on March 8, 2022, by the
following vote:
72
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
Project: Caleo Bay Park
Adopted:
Page 5 of 5
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_________________________________
STEPHEN T. NIETO, Chairperson
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
_______________________________________________
DANNY CASTRO, Design and Development Director
City of La Quinta, California
73
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 1 OF 11
GENERAL
1.The applicant agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of
La Quinta (“City”), its agents, officers and employees from any claim,
action or proceeding to attack, set aside, void, or annul the approval of
this Tentative Tract Map, or any Final Map recorded thereunder. The City
shall have sole discretion in selecting its defense counsel.
The City shall promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action or
proceeding and shall cooperate fully in the defense.
2.This Tentative Tract Map, and any Final Map recorded thereunder, shall
comply with the requirements and standards of Government Code §§
66410 through 66499.58 (the “Subdivision Map Act”), and Chapter 13 of
the La Quinta Municipal Code (“LQMC”).
The City of La Quinta’s Municipal Code can be accessed on the City’s Web
Site at www.laquintaca.gov.
3.Prior to the issuance of any grading, construction, or building permit by
the City, the applicant shall obtain any necessary clearances and/or
permits from the following agencies, if required:
Riverside County Fire Marshal
La Quinta Public Works Department (Grading Permit, Green Sheet
(Public Works Clearance) for Building Permits, Water Quality
Management Plan (WQMP) Exemption Form – Whitewater River
Region, Improvement Permit)
La Quinta Design and Development Department
Riverside Co. Environmental Health Department
Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD)
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Imperial Irrigation District (IID)
California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB)
State Water Resources Control Board
SunLine Transit Agency (SunLine)
South Coast Air Quality Management District Coachella Valley
(SCAQMD)
74
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 2 OF 11
The applicant is responsible for all requirements of the permits and/or
clearances from the above listed agencies. When these requirements
include approval of improvement plans, the applicant shall furnish proof
of such approvals when submitting those improvements plans for City
approval.
4. This Tentative Tract Map shall expire 36 months after approval, March 8,
2025, unless an extension is granted per La Quinta Municipal Code
Section 13.12.160.
5. The applicant shall comply with applicable provisions of the City’s NPDES
stormwater discharge permit, LQMC Sections 8.70.010 et seq.
(Stormwater Management and Discharge Controls), and 13.24.170
(Clean Air/Clean Water); Riverside County Ordinance No. 457; the
California Regional Water Quality Control Board – Colorado River Basin
Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011 and the State Water Resources
Control Board’s Order No. 2012-0006-DWQ.
A. The applicant shall include provisions for all of the following Best
Management Practices (“BMPs”) (LQMC Section 8.70.020
(Definitions)):
1) Temporary Soil Stabilization (erosion control).
2) Temporary Sediment Control.
3) Wind Erosion Control.
4) Tracking Control.
5) Non-Storm Water Management.
6) Waste Management and Materials Pollution Control.
B. The BMPs shall remain in effect for the entire duration of project
construction until all improvements are completed.
6. Developer shall reimburse the City, within thirty (30) days of
presentment of the invoice, all costs and actual attorney’s fees incurred
by the City Attorney to review, negotiate and/or modify any documents
or instruments required by these conditions, if Developer requests that
the City modify or revise any documents or instruments prepared initially
by the City to effect these conditions. This obligation shall be paid in the
time noted above without deduction or offset and Developer’s failure to
make such payment shall be a material breach of the Conditions of
Approval.
75
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 3 OF 11
7. Developer shall reimburse the City, within thirty (30) days of
presentment of the invoice, all costs and actual consultant’s fees incurred
by the City for engineering and/or surveying consultants to review and/or
modify any documents or instruments required by this project. This
obligation shall be paid in the time noted above without deduction or
offset and Developer’s failure to make such payment shall be a material
breach of the Conditions of Approval.
PROPERTY RIGHTS
8. Prior to issuance of any permit(s), the applicant shall acquire or confer
easements and other property rights necessary for the construction or
proper functioning of the proposed development. Conferred rights shall
include irrevocable offers to dedicate or grant access easements to the
City for emergency services and for maintenance, construction and
reconstruction of essential improvements. Said conferred rights shall also
include grant of access easement to the City of La Quinta for the purpose
of graffiti removal by City staff or assigned agent in perpetuity and
agreement to the method to remove graffiti and to paint over to best
match existing. The applicant shall establish the aforementioned
requirements in the right of way documents for the development or other
agreements as approved by the City Engineer.
9. Pursuant to the aforementioned condition, conferred rights shall include
approvals from the master developer over easements and other property
rights necessary for construction and proper functioning of the proposed
development not limited to access rights over proposed and/or existing
parking, access aisles that access public streets and open space/drainage
facilities of the development. Said rights shall also include reciprocal
access and reciprocal parking rights within Tentative Tract Map 38062
and easements for utility lines to the satisfaction of the City Engineer.
10. Where public facilities are placed on privately-owned setbacks, the
applicant shall offer for dedication blanket easements for those purposes
on the Final Map.
11. The applicant shall offer for dedication those easements necessary for the
placement of, and access to, utility lines and structures, drainage basins,
mailbox clusters, park lands, and common areas on the Final Map.
76
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 4 OF 11
12. Direct vehicular access to Avenue 48 and Caleo Bay is restricted, except
for those access points identified on the tentative tract map, or as
otherwise conditioned in these conditions of approval. The vehicular
access restriction shall be shown on the recorded final tract map.
13. The applicant shall cause no easement to be granted, or recorded, over
any portion of the subject property between the date of approval of the
Tentative Tract Map and the date of recording of any Final Map, unless
such easement is approved by the City Engineer.
IMPROVEMENT PLANS
14. As used throughout these Conditions of Approval, professional titles such
as “engineer,” “surveyor,” and “architect,” refers to persons currently
certified or licensed to practice their respective professions in the State of
California.
15. Improvement plans shall be prepared by or under the direct supervision
of qualified engineers and/or architects, as appropriate, and shall comply
with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.040 (Improvement Plans).
16. The following improvement plans shall be prepared and submitted for
review and approval by the Public Works Department. A separate set of
plans for each line item specified below shall be prepared. The plans
shall utilize the minimum scale specified, unless otherwise authorized by
the City Engineer in writing. Plans may be prepared at a larger scale if
additional detail or plan clarity is desired. Note, the applicant may be
required to prepare other improvement plans not listed here pursuant to
improvements required by other agencies and utility purveyors.
A. Final WQMP (Plan submitted in Report Form)
B. On-Site Commercial Precise Grading 1" = 20' Horizontal
NOTE: A through B to be submitted concurrently.
(Separate Storm Drain Plans if applicable)
Other engineered improvement plans prepared for City approval that are
not listed above shall be prepared in formats approved by the City
Engineer prior to commencing plan preparation.
77
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 5 OF 11
“On-Site Commercial Precise Grading” plan is required to be submitted
for approval by the Building Official, Planning Manager and the City
Engineer.
“On-Site Commercial Precise Grading” plans shall normally include all on-
site surface improvements including but not necessarily limited to finish
grades for curbs & gutters, building floor elevations, parking lot
improvements and accessibility requirements.
17. Improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance with City
adopted standards, supplemental drawings and specifications, or as
approved by the City Engineer. Improvement plans for streets, access
gates and parking areas shall be stamped and signed by qualified
engineers.
18. The City maintains standard plans, detail sheets and/or construction
notes for elements of construction which can be accessed via the Public
Works Development “Plans, Notes and Design Guidance” section of the
City website (www.laquintaca.gov). Please navigate to the Public Works
Department home page and look for the Standard Drawings hyperlink.
19. Upon completion of construction, and prior to final acceptance of the
improvements by the City, the applicant shall furnish the City with
reproducible record drawings of all improvement plans which were
approved by the City. Each sheet shall be clearly marked "Record
Drawing" and shall be stamped and signed by the engineer or surveyor
certifying to the accuracy and completeness of the drawings. The
applicant shall have all approved mylars previously submitted to the City,
revised to reflect the as-built conditions. The applicant shall employ or
retain the Engineer of Record during the construction phase of the project
so that the EOR can make site visits in support of preparing "Record
Drawing". However, if subsequent approved revisions have been
approved by the City Engineer and reflect said "Record Drawing"
conditions, the Engineer of Record may submit a letter attesting to said
fact to the City Engineer in lieu of mylar submittal.
GRADING
20. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.050
(Grading Improvements).
78
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 6 OF 11
21. Prior to occupancy of the project site for any construction, or other
purposes, the applicant shall obtain a grading permit approved by the
City Engineer.
A. To obtain an approved grading permit, the applicant shall submit
and obtain approval of all of the following:
B. A grading plan prepared by a civil engineer registered in the State
of California,
C. A preliminary geotechnical (“soils”) report prepared by a
professional registered in the State of California,
D. A Fugitive Dust Control Plan prepared in accordance with LQMC
Chapter 6.16, (Fugitive Dust Control), and
E. A WQMP prepared by an authorized professional registered in the
State of California, and
All grading shall conform with the recommendations contained in the
Soils Report, and shall be certified as being adequate by soils engineer,
or engineering geologist registered in the State of California.
The applicant shall furnish security, in a form acceptable to the City, and
in an amount sufficient to guarantee compliance with the approved
Fugitive Dust Control Plan provisions. Additionally, the applicant shall
replenish said security if expended by the City of La Quinta to comply
with the Plan as required by the City Engineer.
22. The applicant shall maintain all open graded, undeveloped land in order
to prevent wind and/or water erosion of such land. All open graded,
undeveloped land shall either be planted with interim landscaping, or
stabilized with such other erosion control measures, as were approved in
the Fugitive Dust Control Plan.
23. Building pad elevations on the precise grading plan submitted for City
Engineer’s approval shall conform with the pad elevation shown on the
tentative map, unless the pad elevations have other requirements
imposed elsewhere in these Conditions of Approval. Pad elevation will
need to be shown on final precise grading plan.
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 7 OF 11
24. Prior to any site grading or regrading that will raise or lower any portion
of the site by more than plus or minus five tenths of a foot (0.5’) from
the elevations shown on the Site Development Permit Preliminary
Grading Plans, the applicant shall submit the proposed grading changes
to the City Staff for a substantial conformance finding review.
25. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for any building lot, the
applicant shall provide a lot pad certification stamped and signed by a
qualified engineer or surveyor with applicable compaction tests and over
excavation documentation.
Each pad certification shall list the pad elevation as shown on the
approved grading plan, the actual pad elevation and the difference
between the two, if any. Such pad certification shall also list the relative
compaction of the pad soil.
DRAINAGE
26. Stormwater handling shall conform with the approved hydrology and
drainage report for Caleo Bay Park, or as approved by the City Engineer.
27. Stormwater may not be retained in landscaped parkways or landscaped
setback lots. Only incidental storm water (precipitation which directly falls
onto the setback) will be permitted to be retained in the landscape
setback areas. The perimeter setback and parkway areas in the street
right-of-way shall be shaped with berms and mounds, pursuant to LQMC
Section 9.100.040(B)(7).
28. The applicant shall comply with applicable provisions for post construction
runoff per the City’s NPDES stormwater discharge permit, LQMC Sections
8.70.010 et seq. (Stormwater Management and Discharge Controls), and
13.24.170 (Clean Air/Clean Water); Riverside County Ordinance No. 457;
and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board – Colorado River
Basin (CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011.
A. For post-construction urban runoff from New Development and
Redevelopments Projects, the applicant shall implement
requirements of the NPDES permit for the design, construction and
perpetual operation and maintenance of BMPs per the approved
Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for the project as
required by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board –
80
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 8 OF 11
Colorado River Basin (CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-
2013-0011.
B. The applicant shall implement the WQMP Design Standards per
(CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011 utilizing
BMPs approved by the City Engineer. A project specific WQMP shall
be provided which incorporates Site Design and Treatment BMPs
utilizing first flush infiltration as a preferred method of NPDES
Permit Compliance for Whitewater River receiving water, as
applicable.
C. The developer shall execute and record a Stormwater
Management/BMP Facilities Agreement that provides for the
perpetual maintenance and operation of all post-construction
stormwater BMPs.
UTILITIES
29. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.110
(Utilities).
30. The applicant shall obtain the approval of the City Engineer for the
location of all utility lines within any right-of-way, and all above-ground
utility structures including, but not limited to, traffic signal cabinets,
electric vaults, water valves, and telephone stands, to ensure optimum
placement for practical and aesthetic purposes.
31. Underground utilities shall be installed prior to overlying hardscape. For
installation of utilities in existing improved streets, the applicant shall
comply with trench restoration requirements maintained, or required by
the City Engineer. The applicant shall provide certified reports of all utility
trench compaction for approval by the City Engineer. Additionally, grease
traps and the maintenance thereof shall be located as to not conflict with
access aisles/entrances.
CONSTRUCTION
32. The City will conduct final inspections of habitable building only when the
buildings have parking lot improvements and (if required) sidewalk
access to publicly-maintained streets. The improvements shall include
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 9 OF 11
required traffic control devices, pavement markings and street name
signs.
FINAL MAPS
33. Prior to the City’s approval of a Final Map, the applicant shall furnish
accurate mylars of the Final Map that were approved by the City’s map
checker on a storage media acceptable to the City Engineer.
LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION
34. The applicant shall comply with LQMC Sections 13.24.130 (Landscaping
Setbacks) & 13.24.140 (Landscaping Plans).
35. The applicant shall provide landscaping in the required setbacks,
retention basins, and common lots. Said landscaping shall be constantly
maintained by the center owner with damaged, dead or dying plant
material immediately replaced with healthy plant material of equivalent
size.
36. Landscape and irrigation plans for landscaped lots and setbacks,
medians, retention basins, and parks shall be signed and stamped by a
licensed landscape architect.
37. All new and modified landscape areas shall have landscaping and
permanent irrigation improvements in compliance with the City’s Water
Efficient Landscape regulations contained in LQMC Section 8.13 (Water
Efficient Landscape).
38. Lighting plans shall be submitted with the final landscaping plans for a
recommendation to the Planning Manager for his approval. Exterior
lighting shall be consistent with LQMC Section 9.100.150 (Outdoor
Lighting). All freestanding lighting shall not exceed 18 feet in height, and
shall be fitted with a visor if deemed necessary by staff to minimize
trespass of light off the property. The illuminated carports shall be
included in the photometric study as part of the final lighting plan
submittal.
39. All water features shall be designed to minimize “splash”, and use high
efficiency pumps and lighting to the satisfaction of the Planning Manager.
They shall be included in the landscape plan water efficiency calculations
per Municipal Code Chapter 8.13.
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 10 OF 11
40. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be completely screened from
view. Utility transformers or other ground mounted mechanical
equipment shall be fully screened with a screening wall or landscaping
and painted to match the adjacent buildings.
41. The applicant shall submit the final landscape plans for review,
processing and approval to the Design and Development Department, in
accordance with the Final Landscape Plan application process. Final
Landscape Plans shall be consistent with the Preliminary landscaping
plans shown in Site Development Permit 2021-0004, including tree
container size being a minimum 24” box size. Planning Manager approval
of the final landscape plans is required prior to issuance of the first
building permit unless the Planning Manager determines extenuating
circumstances exist which justifies an alternative processing schedule.
NOTE: Plans are not approved for construction until signed by the
appropriate City official, including the Planning Manager and/or City
Engineer.
42. The applicant or his agent has the responsibility for proper sight distance
requirements per guidelines in the AASHTO “A Policy on Geometric
Design of Highways and Streets, 5th Edition” or latest, in the design
and/or installation of all landscaping and appurtenances abutting and
within the private and public street right-of-way.
MAINTENANCE
43. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.160
(Maintenance).
44. The applicant shall make provisions for the continuous and perpetual
maintenance of common areas, perimeter landscaping up to the curb,
access drives, sidewalks, and stormwater BMPs.
FEES AND DEPOSITS
45. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.180
(Fees and Deposits). These fees include all deposits and fees required by
the City for plan checking and construction inspection. Deposits and fee
amounts shall be those in effect when the applicant makes application for
plan check and permits.
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT A
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
ADOPTED:
PAGE 11 OF 11
46. Permits issued under this approval shall be subject to the provisions of
the Development Impact Fee and Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee
programs in effect at the time of issuance of building permit(s).
FIRE
47. Fire Lane marking: Identification and marking of fire lanes, including curb
details and signage shall be in compliance with Riverside County Fire
Department Standards.
48. Requests for installation of traffic calming designs/devices on fire
apparatus access roads shall be submitted and approved by the Office of
the Fire Marshal. Ref. CFC 503.4.1
49. Construction Permits Fire Department Review: Submittal of construction
plans to the Office of the Fire Marshal for development, construction,
installation and operational use permitting will be required. Final fire and
life safety conditions will be addressed when the Office of the Fire Marshal
reviews these plans. These conditions will be based on occupancy, use,
California Building Code (CBC), California Fire Code, and related codes,
which are in effect at the time of building plan submittal.
50. Fire Sprinkler System: Existing fire sprinkler system shall be maintained
and tested in compliance with NFPA 25 requirements. Modifications to the
fire sprinkler system will require separate deferred submittal to the Office
of the Fire Marshal.
51. Fire Alarm and Detection System: Existing water flow monitoring alarm
system shall be maintained and tested in compliance with NFPA 72.
Modification to the fire alarm system will require separate deferred
submittal to the Office of the Fire Marshal.
52. Addressing: It is suggested to update the unit addressing to be in
compliance with USPS and Riverside County Fire Department standards.
Alpha-numerics are no longer supported. (Suggested 101, 102, 103, 104,
105, 106 and 107)
84
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 1 of 13
GENERAL
1. The applicant agrees to defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City of
La Quinta (“City”), its agents, officers and employees from any claim,
action or proceeding to attack, set aside, void, or annul the approval of
this Site Development Permit. The City shall have sole discretion in
selecting its defense counsel.
The City shall promptly notify the applicant of any claim, action or
proceeding and shall cooperate fully in the defense.
2. Site Development Permit 2021-0004 shall comply with all applicable
conditions and/or mitigation measures for the following related
approvals:
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
Environmental Assessment 2004-528
In the event of any conflict(s) between approval conditions and/or
provisions of these approvals, the Design and Development Director shall
adjudicate the conflict by determining the precedence.
3. This Site Development Permit shall expire on March 8, 2024, and shall
become null and void in accordance with Municipal Code Section
9.200.080, unless the required ministerial permits have been issued. A
time extension may be requested per LQMC Section 9.200.080
4. Prior to the issuance of any grading, construction, or building permit by
the City, the applicant shall obtain any necessary clearances and/or
permits from the following agencies, if required:
Riverside County Fire Marshal
La Quinta Public Works Department (Grading Permit, Green Sheet
(Public Works Clearance) for Building Permits, Water Quality
Management Plan (WQMP) Exemption Form – Whitewater River
Region, Improvement Permit)
La Quinta Planning Division
Riverside Co. Environmental Health Department
Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD)
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Imperial Irrigation District (IID)
California Regional Water Quality Control Board (CRWQCB)
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 2 of 13
State Water Resources Control Board
SunLine Transit Agency
South Coast Air Quality Management District Coachella Valley
(SCAQMD)
The applicant is responsible for all requirements of the permits and/or
clearances from the above listed agencies. When these requirements
include approval of improvement plans, the applicant shall furnish proof
of such approvals when submitting those improvements plans for City
approval.
5. The applicant shall comply with applicable provisions of the City’s NPDES
stormwater discharge permit, LQMC Sections 8.70.010 et seq.
(Stormwater Management and Discharge Controls), and 13.24.170
(Clean Air/Clean Water); Riverside County Ordinance No. 457; the
California Regional Water Quality Control Board – Colorado River Basin
Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011 and the State Water Resources
Control Board’s Order No. 2012-0006-DWQ.
A. The applicant shall include provisions for all of the following Best
Management Practices (“BMPs”) (LQMC Section 8.70.020
(Definitions)):
1) Temporary Soil Stabilization (erosion control).
2) Temporary Sediment Control.
3) Wind Erosion Control.
4) Tracking Control.
5) Non-Storm Water Management.
6) Waste Management and Materials Pollution Control.
B. The BMPs shall remain in effect for the entire duration of project
construction until all improvements are completed.
6. Developer shall reimburse the City, within thirty (30) days of
presentment of the invoice, all costs and actual attorney’s fees incurred
by the City Attorney to review, negotiate and/or modify any documents
or instruments required by these conditions, if Developer requests that
the City modify or revise any documents or instruments prepared initially
by the City to effect these conditions. This obligation shall be paid in the
time noted above without deduction or offset and Developer’s failure to
make such payment shall be a material breach of the Conditions of
Approval.
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 3 of 13
7. Developer shall reimburse the City, within thirty (30) days of
presentment of the invoice, all costs and actual consultant’s fees incurred
by the City for engineering and/or surveying consultants to review and/or
modify any documents or instruments required by this project. This
obligation shall be paid in the time noted above without deduction or
offset and Developer’s failure to make such payment shall be a material
breach of the Conditions of Approval.
PROPERTY RIGHTS
8. Prior to issuance of any permit(s), the applicant shall acquire or confer
easements and other property rights necessary for the construction or
proper functioning of the proposed development.
9. Pursuant to the aforementioned condition, conferred rights shall include
approvals from the master developer over easements and other property
rights necessary for construction and proper functioning of the proposed
development not limited to access rights over proposed and/or existing
parking lot that access public streets and open space/drainage facilities of
the master development.
10. The applicant shall furnish proof of easements, or written permission, as
appropriate, from those owners of all abutting properties on which
grading, retaining wall construction, or other encroachments will occur.
IMPROVEMENT PLANS
11. As used throughout these Conditions of Approval, professional titles such
as “engineer,” “surveyor,” and “architect,” refers to persons currently
certified or licensed to practice their respective professions in the State of
California.
12. Improvement plans shall be prepared by or under the direct supervision
of qualified engineers and/or architects, as appropriate, and shall comply
with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.040 (Improvement Plans).
13. The following improvement plans shall be prepared and submitted for
review and approval by the Public Works Department. A separate set of
plans for each line item specified below shall be prepared. The plans
shall utilize the minimum scale specified, unless otherwise authorized by
the City Engineer in writing. Plans may be prepared at a larger scale if
additional detail or plan clarity is desired. Note, the applicant may be
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 4 of 13
required to prepare other improvement plans not listed here pursuant to
improvements required by other agencies and utility purveyors.
A. Final WQMP (Plan submitted in Report Form)
B. On-Site Commercial Precise Grading 1" = 20' Horizontal
NOTE: A through B to be submitted concurrently.
(Separate Storm Drain Plans if applicable)
Other engineered improvement plans prepared for City approval that are
not listed above shall be prepared in formats approved by the City
Engineer prior to commencing plan preparation.
“On-Site Commercial Precise Grading” plan is required to be submitted
for approval by the Building Official, Planning Manager and the City
Engineer.
“On-Site Commercial Precise Grading” plans shall normally include all on-
site surface improvements including but not necessarily limited to finish
grades for curbs & gutters, building floor elevations, parking lot
improvements and accessibility requirements.
14. Improvements shall be designed and constructed in accordance with City
adopted standards, supplemental drawings and specifications, or as
approved by the City Engineer. Improvement plans for streets, access
gates and parking areas shall be stamped and signed by qualified
engineers.
15. The City maintains standard plans, detail sheets and/or construction
notes for elements of construction which can be accessed via the Public
Works Development “Plans, Notes and Design Guidance” section of the
City website (www.laquintaca.gov). Please navigate to the Public Works
Department home page and look for the Standard Drawings hyperlink.
16. Upon completion of construction, and prior to final acceptance of the
improvements by the City, the applicant shall furnish the City with
reproducible record drawings of all improvement plans which were
approved by the City. Each sheet shall be clearly marked "Record
Drawing" and shall be stamped and signed by the engineer or surveyor
certifying to the accuracy and completeness of the drawings. The
applicant shall have all approved mylars previously submitted to the City,
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 5 of 13
revised to reflect the as-built conditions. The applicant shall employ or
retain the Engineer of Record during the construction phase of the project
so that the EOR can make site visits in support of preparing "Record
Drawing". However, if subsequent approved revisions have been
approved by the City Engineer and reflect said "Record Drawing"
conditions, the Engineer of Record may submit a letter attesting to said
fact to the City Engineer in lieu of mylar submittal.
GRADING
17. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.050
(Grading Improvements).
18. Prior to occupancy of the project site for any construction, or other
purposes, the applicant shall obtain a grading permit approved by the
City Engineer.
A. To obtain an approved grading permit, the applicant shall submit
and obtain approval of all of the following:
B. A grading plan prepared by a civil engineer registered in the State
of California,
C. A preliminary geotechnical (“soils”) report prepared by a
professional registered in the State of California,
D. A Fugitive Dust Control Plan prepared in accordance with LQMC
Chapter 6.16, (Fugitive Dust Control), and
E. A WQMP prepared by an authorized professional registered in the
State of California, and
All grading shall conform with the recommendations contained in the
Soils Report, and shall be certified as being adequate by soils engineer,
or engineering geologist registered in the State of California.
The applicant shall furnish security, in a form acceptable to the City, and
in an amount sufficient to guarantee compliance with the approved
Fugitive Dust Control Plan provisions. Additionally, the applicant shall
replenish said security if expended by the City of La Quinta to comply
with the Plan as required by the City Engineer.
19. The applicant shall maintain all open graded, undeveloped land in order
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 6 of 13
to prevent wind and/or water erosion of such land. All open graded,
undeveloped land shall either be planted with interim landscaping, or
stabilized with such other erosion control measures, as were approved in
the Fugitive Dust Control Plan.
20. Building pad elevations on the precise grading plan submitted for City
Engineer’s approval shall conform with the pad elevation shown on the
Site Development Permit Preliminary Grading Plans, unless the pad
elevations have other requirements imposed elsewhere in these
Conditions of Approval. Pad elevation will need to be shown on final
precise grading plan.
21. Prior to any site grading or regrading that will raise or lower any portion
of the site by more than plus or minus five tenths of a foot (0.5’) from
the elevations shown on the Site Development Permit Preliminary
Grading Plans, the applicant shall submit the proposed grading changes
to the City Staff for a substantial conformance finding review.
22. Prior to the issuance of a building permit for any building lot, the
applicant shall provide a lot pad certification stamped and signed by a
qualified engineer or surveyor with applicable compaction tests and over
excavation documentation.
Each pad certification shall list the pad elevation as shown on the
approved grading plan, the actual pad elevation and the difference
between the two, if any. Such pad certification shall also list the relative
compaction of the pad soil.
DRAINAGE
23. Stormwater handling shall conform with the approved hydrology and
drainage report for Caleo Bay Park, or as approved by the City Engineer.
24. Stormwater may not be retained in landscaped parkways or landscaped
setback lots. Only incidental storm water (precipitation which directly falls
onto the setback) will be permitted to be retained in the landscape
setback areas. The perimeter setback and parkway areas in the street
right-of-way shall be shaped with berms and mounds, pursuant to LQMC
Section 9.100.040(B)(7).
25. The applicant shall comply with applicable provisions for post construction
runoff per the City’s NPDES stormwater discharge permit, LQMC Sections
8.70.010 et seq. (Stormwater Management and Discharge Controls), and
90
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 7 of 13
13.24.170 (Clean Air/Clean Water); Riverside County Ordinance No. 457;
and the California Regional Water Quality Control Board – Colorado River
Basin (CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011.
A. For post-construction urban runoff from New Development and
Redevelopments Projects, the applicant shall implement
requirements of the NPDES permit for the design, construction and
perpetual operation and maintenance of BMPs per the approved
Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for the project as
required by the California Regional Water Quality Control Board –
Colorado River Basin (CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-
2013-0011.
B. The applicant shall implement the WQMP Design Standards per
(CRWQCB-CRB) Region Board Order No. R7-2013-0011 utilizing
BMPs approved by the City Engineer. A project specific WQMP shall
be provided which incorporates Site Design and Treatment BMPs
utilizing first flush infiltration as a preferred method of NPDES
Permit Compliance for Whitewater River receiving water, as
applicable.
C. The developer shall execute and record a Stormwater
Management/BMP Facilities Agreement that provides for the
perpetual maintenance and operation of all post-construction
stormwater BMPs.
UTILITIES
26. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.110
(Utilities).
27. The applicant shall obtain the approval of the City Engineer for the
location of all utility lines within any right-of-way, and all above-ground
utility structures including, but not limited to, traffic signal cabinets,
electric vaults, water valves, and telephone stands, to ensure optimum
placement for practical and aesthetic purposes.
28. Underground utilities shall be installed prior to overlying hardscape. For
installation of utilities in existing improved streets, the applicant shall
comply with trench restoration requirements maintained, or required by
the City Engineer. The applicant shall provide certified reports of all utility
trench compaction for approval by the City Engineer. Additionally, grease
91
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 8 of 13
traps and the maintenance thereof shall be located as to not conflict with
access aisles/entrances.
CONSTRUCTION
29. The City will conduct final inspections of habitable building only when the
buildings have parking lot improvements and (if required) sidewalk
access to publicly-maintained streets. The improvements shall include
required traffic control devices, pavement markings and street name
signs.
LANDSCAPE AND IRRIGATION
30. The applicant shall comply with LQMC Sections 13.24.130 (Landscaping
Setbacks) & 13.24.140 (Landscaping Plans).
31. The applicant shall provide landscaping in the required setbacks,
retention basins, and common lots. Said landscaping shall be constantly
maintained by the center owner with damaged, dead or dying plant
material immediately replaced with healthy plant material of equivalent
size.
32. Landscape and irrigation plans for landscaped lots and setbacks,
medians, retention basins, and parks shall be signed and stamped by a
licensed landscape architect.
33. All new and modified landscape areas shall have landscaping and
permanent irrigation improvements in compliance with the City’s Water
Efficient Landscape regulations contained in LQMC Section 8.13 (Water
Efficient Landscape).
34. Lighting plans shall be submitted with the final landscaping plans for a
recommendation to the Planning Manager for his approval. Exterior
lighting shall be consistent with LQMC Section 9.100.150 (Outdoor
Lighting). All freestanding lighting shall not exceed 18 feet in height, and
shall be fitted with a visor if deemed necessary by staff to minimize
trespass of light off the property. The illuminated carports shall be
included in the photometric study as part of the final lighting plan
submittal.
35. All water features shall be designed to minimize “splash”, and use high
efficiency pumps and lighting to the satisfaction of the Planning Manager.
92
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 9 of 13
They shall be included in the landscape plan water efficiency calculations
per Municipal Code Chapter 8.13.
36. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be completely screened from
view. Utility transformers or other ground mounted mechanical
equipment shall be fully screened with a screening wall or landscaping
and painted to match the adjacent buildings.
37. The applicant shall submit the final landscape plans for review,
processing and approval to the Design and Development Department, in
accordance with the Final Landscape Plan application process. Final
Landscape Plans shall be consistent with the Preliminary landscaping
plans shown in Site Development Permit 2021-0004, including tree
container size being a minimum 24” box size. Planning Manager approval
of the final landscape plans is required prior to issuance of the first
building permit unless the Planning Manager determines extenuating
circumstances exist which justifies an alternative processing schedule.
NOTE: Plans are not approved for construction until signed by the
appropriate City official, including the Planning Manager and/or City
Engineer.
38. The applicant or his agent has the responsibility for proper sight distance
requirements per guidelines in the AASHTO “A Policy on Geometric
Design of Highways and Streets, 5th Edition” or latest, in the design
and/or installation of all landscaping and appurtenances abutting and
within the private and public street right-of-way.
MAINTENANCE
39. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.160
(Maintenance).
40. The applicant shall make provisions for the continuous and perpetual
maintenance of all private on-site improvements, perimeter landscaping,
access drives, sidewalks, and stormwater BMPs.
FEES AND DEPOSITS
41. The applicant shall comply with the provisions of LQMC Section 13.24.180
(Fees and Deposits). These fees include all deposits and fees required by
the City for plan checking and construction inspection. Deposits and fee
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PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 10 of 13
amounts shall be those in effect when the applicant makes application for
plan check and permits.
42. Permits issued under this approval shall be subject to the provisions of
the Development Impact Fee and Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee
programs in effect at the time of issuance of building permit(s).
RIVERSIDE COUNTY FIRE MARSHAL
43. Fire Hydrants and Fire Flow: Provide water system plans to show there
exists or proposed improvements of fire hydrant(s) capable of delivering
the minimum fire flow, per CFC Appendix B Table B105.1 and Table
B105.2 as amended by LQMC, within 400 feet to all portions around the
proposed structure. Minimum fire hydrant location and spacing shall
comply with the CFC and NFPA 24. Reference 2019 California Fire Code
(CFC) 507.5.1.
A. 3-feet clearance: Fire hydrants and other Fire Protection Equipment
shall be provided with a minimum 3-feet radius clearance around
the circumference of the device. (CFC 507.5.5, 509.2.1 & 912.4.2)
44. Fire Lane marking: Identification and marking of fire lanes, including curb
details and signage shall be in compliance with Riverside County Fire
Department Standards.
45. Requests for installation of traffic calming designs/devices on fire
apparatus access roads shall be submitted and approved by the Office of
the Fire Marshal. Ref. CFC 503.4.1
46. Construction Permits Fire Department Review: Submittal of construction
plans to the Office of the Fire Marshal for development, construction,
installation and operational use permitting will be required. Final fire and
life safety conditions will be addressed when the Office of the Fire Marshal
reviews these plans. These conditions will be based on occupancy, use,
California Building Code (CBC), California Fire Code, and related codes,
which are in effect at the time of building plan submittal.
47. Fire Sprinkler System: All new commercial structures 3,600 square feet or
larger will be required to install a fire sprinkler system. Ref. CFC 903.2 as
amended by the City of La Quinta.
A. Private Fire Mains: The provided site plan shows 2 separate FDC/PIV
underground sprinkler supply lines serving the B/C building
94
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 11 of 13
arrangement. Likely, the project building could utilize just 1 of these
supplies for the whole building. If this single use option is
considered, the unused FDC/PIV assembly and all underground
piping shall be removed.
B. Riser Room: If a system riser is to be concealed by means of a wall,
soffit, column, or other building construction, it shall be provided with
18-inches of clearance to each side and to the front of the system
riser. Access shall be provided by means of a door with the minimum
dimensions of 2-feet, 6-inches in width and 6-feet, 8-inches in height.
This door shall be located on the exterior of the building and provide
direct access to the fire riser room or area.
48. Fire Alarm and Detection System: A water flow monitoring system and/or
fire alarm system may be required and determined at time of building
plan review. Ref. CFC 903.4, CFC 907.2 and NFPA 72
49. Knox Box Access: Buildings shall be provided with a Knox Box. The Knox
Box shall be installed in an accessible location approved by the Office of
the Fire Marshal. Ref. CFC 506.1
50. Addressing: All commercial buildings shall display street numbers in a
prominent location on the address side and additional locations as
required. Ref. CFC 505.1 and County of Riverside Office of the Fire
Marshal Standard #07-01
CONSTRUCTION
51. Plans shall be prepared to the applicable code at the time of submittal for
building permit. Structure is not exempt from permitting, plans with
engineering shall be provided. As of January 1, 2019, Commercial
Projects are required to be prepared by a Licensed Architect or Engineer.
On each sheet of submitted Plans, provide the preparer’s name and
telephone number and wet-signature and his/her stamp as prescribed by
California Business and Professions Code '5536.
52. Any building, structure, facility, complex or improved area, or portions
thereof, which are used by the general public shall be provided barrier
free design to ensure that these improvements are accessible to and
usable by persons with disabilities. Plans shall fully detail how the
proposed facility complies with the California Accessibility Standards
defined in Title 24 Chapter 11B and Federal ADA Regulations.
95
PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022- EXHIBIT B
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL - RECOMMENDED
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
PROJECT: CALEO BAY PARK
ADOPTED:
Page 12 of 13
A. Parallel Type Curb Ramp to the Accessible Parking Does Not Comply in
the Location Currently Proposed, the Changes in Level Caused by the
Curb Cut Create Additional Hazards.
B. Ramp Along the Accessible Route to the Public Right of Way Does Not
Comply with Top and Bottom Landing Requirements.
53.The provisions of California Green Building Standards Code outline
planning, design and development methods that include environmentally
responsible site selection, building design, building siting and
development to protect, restore and enhance the environmental quality
of the site and respect the integrity of adjacent properties, please provide
compliance information on plans as applicable. Include planning and
design requirements of division 5.1, and the applicable water efficiency
and conservations and the material conservation and resource efficiency
for exterior items of division 5.3, and 5.4 respectfully.
54.Building Division has reviewed this Preliminary Review Application to help
expedite the review and approval of your project during the permitting
stage. Additional comments may be required based on further
information being provided for review.
55.The City will conduct final inspections of habitable building only when the
buildings have parking lot improvements and (if required) sidewalk
access to publicly maintained streets. The improvements shall include
required traffic control devices, pavement markings and street name
signs.
96
ATTACHMENT 1
PROJECT INFORMATION
CASE NUMBER: TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2021-0002 (TTM 38062) &
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2021-0004
APPLICANT: DR. STEVEN PHAN
REQUEST: ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE A TENTATIVE
TRACT MAP AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT FOR
NEW 8,337 SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL
CONDOMINIUM BUILDING ON VACANT LOT IN
EXISTING CENTER
LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 48 AND CALEO BAY
DRIVE; APN 643-200-040, -041, & -042
CEQA: DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT HAS
DETERMINED THE PROJECT IS CONSISTENT WITH EA
2004-528; LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF
AVENUE 48 AND CALEO BAY DRIVE
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION: GENERAL COMMERCIAL
ZONING
DESIGNATION: COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
SURROUNDING
ZONING/LAND USES: NORTH: COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
EXISTING MEDICAL
SOUTH: LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
EXISTING RESIDENTIAL
EAST: LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
EXISTING RESIDENTIAL
WEST: COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
EXISTING COMMERCIAL
97
ATTACHMENT 2
FINDINGS
Tentative Tract Map 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
FINDINGS:
1.Tentative Tract Map 38062 is consistent with the La Quinta General
Plan. The Tentative Tract Map is consistent with the Community
Commercial land use designation as set forth in the General Plan.
2.The design and improvement of Tentative Tract Map 38062 is
consistent with the La Quinta General Plan with the implementation
of recommended conditions of approval to ensure consistency for
the suites proposed on the lots created herein.
3.The design of Tentative Tract Map 38062 is not likely to cause
substantial environmental damage, nor substantially and avoidably
injure fish or wildlife or their habitat. The La Quinta Design and
Development Department has determined that this project is
consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration (EA 2004-528)
adopted by the La Quinta Planning Commission on November 23,
2004, via Resolution 2004-091. The build out of the entire center
was analyzed as part of this Mitigated Negative Declaration, and
this proposed project is consistent with build out analyzed.
4.The design of Tentative Tract Map 38062 and type of improvements
are not likely to cause serious public health problems, insofar as the
project will be required to comply with all laws, standards and
requirements associated with sanitary sewer collection, water
quality and other public health issues.
5.The design and improvements required for Tentative Tract Map
38062 will not conflict with easements, acquired by the public at
large, for access through or use of property within the proposed
subdivision. All roadway improvements, easements, if any and
surrounding improvements will be completed to City standards.
98
Site Development Permit 2021-0004
FINDINGS
1.Consistency with General Plan
The proposed development is consistent with the General Plan land
use designation of General Commercial. The City’s General Plan
policies relating to the General Commercial designation encourage
commercial uses in the City and the proposed use maintains those
policies. The proposed project is consistent with:
- Goal ED-1 as it will contribute to a balanced and varied
economic base which provides fiscal stability to the City, and
a broad range of goods and services to its residents and the
region.
- Program ED-1.1.b as it considers the proposal’s compatibility
with surrounding existing uses, as this is a continuation of an
existing commercial center.
- Goal LU-2.1 in that the project design incorporates high
quality design that complements and enhances the City. The
architecture and landscaping are consistent with rest of the
City and rest of the commercial center itself.
2.Consistency with Zoning Code
The proposed development, as conditioned, is consistent with the
development standards of the City’s Zoning Code in terms of site
plan and landscaping. The Site Development Permit has been
conditioned to ensure compliance with the Zoning Code’s
development standards, including standards for parking lot design,
amount of parking required, and height standards, including City’s
image corridor standards. The development meets all development
standards of the underlying Community Commercial zone.
3.Compliance with California Environmental Quality Act
The La Quinta Design and Development Department has determined
that the project is consistent with the Mitigated Negative Declaration
(EA 2004-528) adopted by the La Quinta Planning Commission on
November 23, 2004, via Resolution 2004-091. The build out of the
entire center was analyzed as part of this Mitigated Negative
Declaration, and the proposed project is consistent with build out
analyzed.
4.Architectural Design
The proposed project, as conditioned, is consistent in design with
the Zoning Code, with development in the Community Commercial
99
zone, and with development within the existing commercial center.
The architectural design of the project, including but not limited to
the architectural style, scale, building mass, materials, colors,
architectural details, roof style, and other architectural elements, are
compatible with surrounding development and with the quality of
design prevalent in the City.
5.Site Design
The site design of the project, including architectural style, features,
materials, and color palette, and other site design elements are
compatible with surrounding development and with the quality of
design prevalent in the Community Commercial zone and the City.
6.Landscape Design
The proposed project is consistent with the landscaping standards
and plant palette and implements the standards for landscaping and
aesthetics, including drought tolerant desert landscaping, established
in the General Plan and Zoning Code.
100
¯
SITECaleo BayWashington StreetAvenue 48
ATTACHMENT 3
VICINITY MAP 101
ATTACHMENT 4
102
103
NOPARKINGNOPARKINGNOPARKINGC A L E O B A YA V E N U E 4 8EX. BLDGEX. BLDGFF:62.50PAD: 62.0FF:62.20PAD: 61.71A1B23456W A S H I N G T O N S T .TYPICAL SECTIONCALEO BAYTYPICAL SECTIONAVENUE 48S1CORNER OF WASHINGTON ST. & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.4193SITE PLAN104
105
106
107
108
109
C A L E O B A YNOPARKING NOPARKINGA V E N U E 4 8EX. BLDGEX. BLDGNORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.4193PRECISE GRADING PLANFORCALEO BAY PARKNORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY &AVENUE 48, LA QUINTA, CA 92253GENERAL NOTES ” ’ ” ” “” GRADING NOTES“” “” PAVING NOTESVICINITY MAPINDEX MAP LEGENDS & ABBREVATIONS PROJECT DATALEGAL DESCRIPTIONADDRESSOWNERFEMAUTILITIESSHEET INDEXEARTHWORK QUANTITIES:EARTHWORK NOTES:SOILS AND GEOLOGIST CERTIFICATION1TITLE SHEET CONSTRUCTION NOTES & QUANTITIES NOTICE TO CONTRACTOR:110
NOPARKINGC A L E O B A YFF:62.50PAD: 62.0FF:62.20PAD: 61.7AABBCCDDFFEEA V E N U E 4 8
NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.41932PRECISE GRADING PLAN CONSTRUCTION NOTES NOTE :OVER-EXCAVATION NOTE:111
FF:62.50FF:62.50FF:62.50FF:62.20FF:62.20FF:62.20NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.41933CROSS SECTIONS SECTION A-A SECTION B-B SECTION C-C SECTION D-D SECTION E-E SECTION F-F NOTE:112
NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.41936" X 6" DECK DRAIN DETAIL CONCRETE RAMP WALL DETAIL12' WIDE "STEP-OFF" CONCRETETRUNCATED DOMES DETAILADA ACCESSIBLE RAMP4DETAIL SHEETMAXWELL DRYWELL SYSTEM DETAILITEM NUMBERSModified MaxWell IV Drainage System Detail And Specifications2'
5'4' ØMANHOLE CONE - MODIFIED FLAT BOTTOM.MOISTURE MEMBRANE - 6 MIL. PLASTIC. APPLIESONLY WHEN NATIVE MATERIAL IS USED FORBACKFILL. PLACE MEMBRANE SECURELYAGAINST ECCENTRIC CONE AND HOLESIDEWALL.BOLTED RING & GRATE - DIAMETER AS SHOWN.CLEAN CAST IRON WITH WORDING "STORMWATER ONLY" IN RAISED LETTERS. BOLTED IN 2LOCATIONS AND SECURED TO CONE WITHMORTAR. RIM ELEVATION ±0.02' OF PLANS.GRADED BASIN OR PAVING (BY OTHERS).COMPACTED BASE MATERIAL -1-SACK SLURRYEXCEPT IN LANDSCAPED INSTALLATIONS WITHNO PIPE CONNECTIONS.PUREFLO DEBRIS SHIELD - ROLLED 16 GA.STEEL X 24" LENGTH WITH VENTED ANTI-SIPHONAND INTERNAL .265" MAX. SWO FLATTENEDEXPANDED STEEL SCREEN X 12" LENGTH.FUSION BONDED EPOXY COATED.PRE-CAST LINER - 4000 PSI CONCRETE 48" ID. X54" OD. CENTER IN HOLE AND ALIGN SECTIONSTO MAXIMIZE BEARING SURFACE.0,1
'5,//('6+$)7.SUPPORT BRACKET - FORMED 12 GA. STEEL.FUSION BONDED EPOXY COATED.OVERFLOW PIPE - SCH. 40 PVC MATED TODRAINAGE PIPE AT BASE SEAL.DRAINAGE PIPE - ADS HIGHWAY GRADE WITHTRI-A COUPLER. SUSPEND PIPE DURINGBACKFILL OPERATIONS TO PREVENT BUCKLINGOR BREAKAGE. DIAMETER AS NOTED.BASE SEAL - GEOTEXTILE, OR CONCRETESLURRY.ROCK - WASHED, SIZED BETWEEN 3/8" AND 1-1/2"TO BEST COMPLEMENT SOIL CONDITIONS.FLOFAST DRAINAGE SCREEN - SCH. 40 PVC0.120" SLOTTED WELL SCREEN WITH 32 SLOTSPER ROW/FT. DIAMETER VARIES 120" OVERALLLENGTH WITH TRI-B COUPLER.0,1
6+$)7 - DRILLED TO MAINTAINPERMEABILITY OF DRAINAGE SOILS.FABRIC SEAL - U.V. RESISTANT GEOTEXTILE - TOBE REMOVED BY CUSTOMER AT PROJECTCOMPLETION.ABSORBENT - HYDROPHOBIC PETROCHEMICALSPONGES. MIN. 128 OZ. CAPACITY.FREEBOARD DEPTH VARIES WITH INLET PIPEELEVATION. INCREASE SETTLING CHAMBERDEPTH AS NEEDED TO MAINTAIN ALL INLET PIPEELEVATIONS ABOVE OVERFLOW PIPE INLET.34517126897101114156" Ø13ESTIMATED TOTAL DEPTH WITH 10' PENETRATION INTO PERMEABLE SOILS
SETTLING CHAMBER DEPTHOPTIONAL INLET PIPE (MAXIMUM 4", BY OTHERS).EXTEND MOISTURE MEMBRANE AND COMPACTEDBASE MATERIAL OR 1 SACK SLURRY BACKFILLBELOW PIPE INVERT.18OVERFLOW HEIGHT
13INLET PIPE INVERT
16119 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.10.11.12.13.14.15.16.17.18.19.Manufactured and Installed byTORRENT RESOURCESAn evolution of McGuckin Drillingwww.torrentresources.comARIZONA 602/268-0785NEVADA 702/366-1234CALIFORNIA 661/947-9836AZ Lic. ROC070465 A, ROC047067 B-4, ADWR 363CA Lic. 528080, C-42, HAZ.NV Lic. 0035350 A - NM Lic. 90504 GF04U.S. Patent No. 4,923,330 - Trademark 1974, 1990, 2004®NOTE: DRAWING NOT TO SCALE25'
10'
20'
5'113
NOPARKINGC A L E O B A YFF:62.50PAD: 62.0FF:62.20PAD: 61.7A V E N U E 4 8
NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.41935EROSION CONTROL PLANEROSION CONTROLCONSTRUCTION NOTES QUANTITIES CONCRETE WASHOUT CONTAINER(CASQA WM-8)LEGEND: SILT FENCE (CASQA SE-1)FOR AREA DRAIN INLETTYPICAL PROTECTION STREET SANDBAG DETAIL & 114
NOPARKINGC A L E O B A YFF:62.50PAD: 62.0FF:62.20PAD: 61.7A V E N U E 4 8
NORTHWEST CORNER OF CALEO BAY & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.41936HORIZONTAL CONTROL PLAN115
CALEO BAY
AVENUE 48DESCANSO LNVIA FIRENZE
VIA NICE
VIA JARDIN VIA FLORENCEVIA MONTIGO
VIA MONTANA
WASHINGTON STVISTA CIELOVISTA LAGUNA
VIAHERMOSACLLFLORISTAVIA SOLA
N
A SITEVICINITY MAPI1CORNER OF WASHINGTON ST. & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.4193TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 38062TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 38062FORCALEO BAY PARKCORNER OF WASHINGTON STREET &AVENUE 48, LA QUINTA, CA 92253SHEET INDEXATTACHMENT 5116
NOPARKINGNOPARKINGNOPARKINGC A L E O B A YA V E N U E 4 8EX. BLDGEX. BLDGFF:62.50PAD: 62.0FF:62.20PAD: 61.71A 1B23456TYPICAL SECTIONCALEO BAYTYPICAL SECTIONAVENUE 48CORNER OF WASHINGTON ST. & AVENUE 48LA QUINTA, CA 92253CALEO BAY PARKSAXON ENGINEERING SERVICES, INC2605 TEMPLE HEIGHTS DRIVE, SUITE A, OCEANSIDE, CA 92056TEL: 949.366.2180 FAX: 800.653.4193TENTATIVE TRACT MAP NO. 38062T1EASEMENT NOTES:117
POWERPOINTS
PLANNING
COMMISSION
March 8, 2022
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
1
Planning Commission Meeting
March 8, 2022
Pledge of Allegiance
1
2
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
2
Public Comment - Teleconference
Join virtually via Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
“Raise Hand” to speak
Or join via phone: (253) 215 - 8782
*9 = Raise Hand to speak when addressed
*6 = Unmute when prompted
Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.
How to “Raise Hand” via Computer
3
4
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
3
How to “Raise Hand” via Smart Phone App
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
SB 9
(Statutes of 2021)
Presented to City of La Quinta Planning Commission
March 8, 2022
Bill Ihrke / City Attorney / Rutan & Tucker, LLP
bihrke@rutan.com
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
4
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (Stats. 2021, Ch. 162)
• Ministerial Approval for Eligible Duplexes and Lot Splits, subject
to Objective Standards
• SB 9 Duplex (Two-Unit) Housing Development
(Gov. Code §65852.21):
• Demolition of existing structure restricted to only 25% of existing
exterior structural walls, unless city ordinance allows more or
unoccupied for 3+ years
• Rentals must be longer than 30 days
• May require a percolation test if residential units will be connected to
onsite wastewater system
• Units at least 800 sq.ft.
7
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• SB 9 Lot-Split (Gov. Code §66411.7):
• Two new parcels must be relatively equal in size (60%/40% maximum
split) and at least 1,200 sq.ft. (unless local ordinance allows less)
• Applicant must sign affidavit to occupy one unit from Lot Split as a
principal residence for 3 years
(exception for land trust or qualified nonprofit)
(no other owner-occupancy requirements allowed)
• Rentals must be longer than 30 days
• No more than 2 units allowable on Lot-Split parcels
• Cannot deny permit based on nonconforming use
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
5
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• SB 9 Duplex and Lot-Split Criteria Requirements:
• No more than 2 units on single-family zoned parcel
• Parcel in a city with boundaries to urbanized area or urban cluster (US
Census Bureau Data)
• City may impose objective zoning, subdivision, and design review
standards, provided that:
• No setback can be required for existing structure or structure constructed in the
same location
• Side and rear setbacks up to 4 feet are allowed
• Off-street parking up to 1 space per unit unless within ½ mile of high-quality
transit corridor or major transit stop, or within 1 block of a car share vehicle
9
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• Definition of “objective zoning, subdivision, and design review
standards”:
• Standards that involve no personal or subjective judgment by a public
official and are uniformly verifiable by reference to an external and
uniform benchmark or criterion available and knowable by both the
development applicant or proponent and the public official prior to
submittal.
• These standards may be embodied in alternative objective land use
specifications adopted by a local agency, and may include, but are not
limited to, housing overlay zones, specific plans, inclusionary zoning
ordinances, and density bonus ordinances.
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9
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• SB 9 Duplex & Lot-Split / Grounds for Denial:
• Parcel(s) located in environmentally unsafe or sensitive area, as
specified in Government Code Section 65913.4(a)(6)(B)-(K), such as
wetlands, a high or very high fire severity zone, a hazardous waste
site, an earthquake fault zone, a flood plain or floodway, and lands
under a conservation easement
• Parcel(s) requires demolition or alteration of any affordable housing,
rent-controlled housing, housing that was withdrawn from rent within
the last 15 years, or housing occupied by a tenant in the last 3 years
11
18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• SB 9 Duplex & Lot-Split / Grounds for Denial (continued):
• Parcel(s) designated as a historic landmark or within a designated
historic district
• A proposed SB 9 Lot-Split parcel has already been subject to an SB 9
Lot-Split
• A proposed SB 9 Lot-Split is adjacent to a parcel created through an
SB 9 Lot-Split if the owner or any person acting in concert with the
owner subdivided the adjacent parcel
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Senate Bill 9 (continued)
• SB 9 Duplex & Lot-Split / Grounds for Denial (continued):
• A specific, adverse impact, upon public health and safety or the
physical environment and for which there is no feasible method to
satisfactorily mitigate or avoid the specific, adverse impact;
• Must have written findings based upon a preponderance of the
evidence
(Housing Accountability Act, Gov. Code §65589.5)
• SB 9 Ministerial Approval = No CEQA Review
• Tentative Map Extensions for 12 Months
(Gov. Code §66452.6)
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18575 Jamboree Road, 9th Floor, Irvine, CA 92612 | 714‐641‐5100
Questions?
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
8
Planning Commission Meeting
March 8, 2022
B1 – 2021 General Plan and
Housing Annual Reports
Background
•California requires cities and counties adopt
General Plans
–“Blueprint" for future growth
•Seven elements required
–Land use, Circulation, Conservation, Noise, Open
space, Safety, and Housing
•La Quinta General Plan adopted February 19,
2013
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
9
LQ General Plan Chapters
•Community Development
•Natural Resources
•Environmental Hazards
•Public Infrastructure and Services
Implementation Highlights
•Talus (SilverRock) construction underway
•SilverRock Event Center Park open
•X Park Skate Park construction underway
•Al Fresco program continues
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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Housing Element
•5th Cycle adopted November 19, 2013
•Required in General Plans to address
community housing needs
•Must include plans that provide opportunities
for, and not unduly constrain, housing
development
Housing Element
•Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) determines regional
housing allocation in coordination with
Southern California Association of
Governments (SCAG)
•SCAG is responsible for allocating housing
need within the region
–Regional Housing Need Allocation Plan (RHNA)
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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2014-2021 RHNA Progress
Reporting Year Very
Low
Low Moderate Above
Moderate
Total
2014 36 138 2 0 176
2015 -- -- -- ----
2016 -- -- -- ----
2017 0 0 0 102 102
2018 68 4 123 195
2019 0 0 6 131 137
2020 0 0 0 195 195
2021 (January
through October)0 0 0 203 203
Total Units 104 138 12 754 1,008
Projected Need
(RHNA)91 61 66 146 364
Remaining Need 00 54 0 54
Recommendation
•Recommend that the City Council
authorize submittal of the General Plan
and Housing Element Annual Progress
Reports to the Office of Planning and
Research and State Department of
Housing and Community Development.
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
12
Planning Commission Meeting
March 8, 2022
PH1 – TTM 2021-0002 (TTM 38062)
and SDP2021-0004 for Caleo Bay Park
Building
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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Background
•Caleo Bay Park Commercial Center was
approved as a Walgreens anchored
commercial center
•In 2004, SDP was approved for a 2nd
building. This SDP included review and
construction of the full parking,
landscaping, offsite improvements, and
leaving vacant pads
Vicinity Map
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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Site Photos
Project
•Applicant requesting TTM and SDP
approval for new 8,337 sf condo
commercial building on vacant pad
and revision of parcel lines
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PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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Tentative Tract Map (TTM)
•TTM 2021-0002 (TTM38062)
approval for following:
–Create 6 individually owned tenant
spaces ranging from 1,065-1,800 sf
–Revise three (3) parcels within Center to
allow new building and future building
to be on its own parcel w/ parking
Tentative Tract Map
29
30
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
16
Site Development Permit
(SDP)
•Requesting SDP approval for
architecture, site and landscaping
design of proposed 8,377 sf building
on vacant pad
•Project meets all development
standards of CC zone within LQMC
Site Plan
31
32
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
17
Elevations
Renderings
33
34
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
18
Color/Materials
Landscaping
35
36
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
19
Parking
•Total required parking for entire
Center has been constructed (198
spaces, including 32 covered spaces)
•Center has sufficient parking for
proposed building, including adjacent
parking
CEQA
•Staff determined this project is
consistent with the MND adopted by
Planning Commission in 2004.
•Build out of entire center was
analyzed and this project is
consistent with analyzed build out
37
38
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
20
Findings
•Findings relate to design of
architecture, site, and landscaping,
CEQA compliance, and project
consistency with zoning code and
General Plan
Recommendation
•Adopt a resolution to approve Tentative
Tract Map 2021-0002 (TTM38062) and
SDP 2021-0004 subject to the findings
and conditions of approval and find the
project consistent with Environmental
Assessment 2004-528
39
40
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
21
Planning Commission Meeting
March 8, 2022
SI1 Project Updates
41
42
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
22
City Projects
•Highway 111
–Specific Plan kick off this month
•Cultural Campus
•Historic Resources Survey
Projects in Entitlement Review
•St Francis of Assisi Parish Hall
•Troutdale Village
•Coral Mountain Resort
•Travertine
•Andalusia Tract 38188
•Avenue 58 Townhomes
43
44
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
23
Recently Approved Projects
•Panera
•The Peak
•Jefferson Apartments
•Pavilion Palms
Projects Under Construction
•Talus (SilverRock)
•Carmela
•Rancho Santana
•Floresta
•Stone Creek Ranch
•Cantera at Coral
Mountain
•Club at Andalusia
•Centre at La Quinta
Residential
45
46
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MARCH 8, 2022
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47
HANDOUTS
PLANNING
COMMISSION
March 8, 2022
Climate Breakdown Warning
Alena Callimanis
La Quinta Residents for Responsible Development
www.saynotothewave.com
PLANNING COMMISSTION MEETING - MARCH 8, 2022 - WRITTEN COMMENT BY RESIDENT AND LQRRD MEMBER ALENA CALIMANIS
PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - CORAL MOUNTAIN WAVE PROJECT
Citing Drought, US won’t give water to
California Farmers
•Article by Adam Beam appeared February 23, 2022 in AP News; you have a copy of this article
•Third year of severe drought forcing federal officials to stop water deliveries
•Affects the nation’s largest agricultural water district covering 1,000
square miles in Fresno and Kings counties
•Will need to fallow over 200,000 acres
International Panel on Climate Change issues “bleakest
warning yet”
•Article by Fiona Harvey, Environment correspondent for The Guardian appeared February 28, 2022; you have a copy of this article.
•Climate breakdown accelerating rapidly; impacts will be more severe than predicted
•There is only a narrow chance left of avoiding its worst ravages
•Droughts, floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather are accelerating and wreaking increasing damage
Key Messages from the Report
•“The scientific evidence is unequivocal: climate change is a threat to human wellbeing and the health of the planet,” said Hans-Otto Pörtner, a co-chair of working group 2 of the IPCC. “Any further delay in concerted global action will miss a brief and rapidly closing window to secure a liveable future.”
•“Must halve greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 at the latest”
•António Guterres, the UN secretary general, said: “I have seen many scientific reports in my time, but nothing like this.Today’s IPCC report is an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership.”
Why this relates to Coral Mountain Surf Resort
•Colorado River and State Water Agency allocations down and Terra
Nova acknowledged that the evaporation numbers for the Surf Basin
are over simplified and under calculated
•More water will be drawn from the aquifer than can be replenished
•Serious consequences to the future of the whole Coachella Valley –
what happens to us with this scenario?
•We can’t go back and buy more Colorado River water like CVWD has
been doing to replenish the aquifer
•There are special consequences for the people of the Eastern
Coachella Valley who don’t get CVWD water and whose wells are
running dry or more contaminated water is pulled from the well
Non-mitigatable Green House Gas Emissions
•Kelley Slater wave technology which uses a hydrofoil on train tracks to
move 18 million gallons of water, 150 million pounds of water, has
been cited by Wave Pool Magazine as having the largest by far
electrical requirement of any wave generating technology
•Cement is the source of about 8% of the world's carbon dioxide (CO2)
emissions
•The Desert is a key ecosystem that absorbs carbon and acts as a
carbon “sink”
•You will turn the Desert into a carbon “source” by releasing all the
stored CO2 during construction
OPTIMISM FOR A WET WINTER QUICKLY FADING
•When it comes to water resources, the northern Sierra Nevada snowpack is a harbinger of abundance or scarcity for 40 million
California residents and businesses. Early winter storms that delivered a blanket of drought-busting optimism have been followed by an extraordinarily and nearly precipitation -free winter.
•Short of a March miracle or late spring deluge, 2022 is shaping up to
be a tougher and drier year than 2021. Earlier and more devastating fire seasons and mandatory water restrictions are becoming the norm. The west continues to experience what scientists deem
the worst megadrought in 1200 years.
There are serious implications beyond the Coral Mountain area
•We are called NIMBYS –but we are the ones looking at the impacts beyond our neighborhoods
•There comes a point when you too must look beyond the Transient Occupancy Tax and the dubious distinction of having the largest Wave Basin in the world in your City during an unprecedented drought and heat wave and when California farmers are suffering
•2005 had 99 days over 100 degrees. Now having 150 days over 100 degrees concerns us as it should you
•It is time to show leadership, not just for today, but for the future of La Quinta
•What do you want as your legacy?
Barring a 'miracle,' California snowpack will end the
season below average By Caitlin Kaiser and Stephanie Elam, CNN
(CNN) — Winter is California's wet season, but a discouraging snow survey
performed on Tuesday, along with an ominous (lack of) precipitation record
set in Sacramento, shows that California reservoirs will likely not fill up again
this year.
"With below-average precipitation and snow up until this point, our team's
latest statewide snow melt forecast are only about 66% of average," said
Sean de Guzman, manager of the Snow Surveys & Water Supply Forecasting
Program with the California Department of Water Resources (DWR).
"That's not enough to fill up our reservoirs and without any significant storms
on the horizon, it's safe to say that we will end this year dry and continue on
into the third year of this drought."
Snowfall in the Sierra Nevadas is imperative to replenishing the state's water
supply. The DWR surveys the mountains for snow periodically during the
winter months in order to better predict water levels later in the year.
Tuesday, the third survey of the winter was conducted on the Phillips Station
snow course in the Sierra Nevadas.
"The winter season is California's wet season, when we count on storms from
the tropical Pacific to bring precipitation to pack mountains with snow, and fill
rivers, streams, reservoirs and soils with badly needed water," said Justin
Mankin, an Assistant Professor of Geography at Dartmouth College.
After a great start to the winter season, "The majority of the snow pack that
we are standing on right here today is basically the same snow that fell during
December. There hasn't been much that has fallen ever since."
And they are not expecting to see much more. "Barring any unforeseen
miracle March, which we don't actually see coming, we will end this year
below average," de Guzman added.
Most of California's major reservoirs are below average. Statewide reservoir
storage stands at about 73% of average. Lake Oroville is only 47% full and
Lake Shasta, the largest reservoir in the state, is 37% full.
"This past January and February were actually the driest, consecutive January
and February on record dating back over 100 years in the Sierra Nevada," de
Guzman said.
It isn't just the lack of snowfall in the mountains that is setting records this
winter. The lack of precipitation in one of California's major cities is expected
to set a dismal rain record Tuesday.
A record winter dry spell
With no precipitation Tuesday, Sacramento will break the record for the
longest dry stretch during the wet season -- going a whopping 53 days
without rain. Monday, Sacramento tied the record for most consecutive days
without rain in the wet season and is looking to blow past the 52-day record,
according to the National Weather Service Sacramento.
This dry spell came as a shock after a wet start to the water year, which starts
October 1. Sacramento saw an impressive 14.37 inches of precipitation from
October to December, which is more than double the average of around six
inches for this period. This was followed by only 0.05 of an inch of
precipitation in January and only trace amounts in February.
Dry conditions are not unusual for many areas in California; however the
timing of these dry conditions is.
"We aren't getting the amount of rain that we would normally get this time of
year. January and February are two of our wettest months of the year, so
when we are so dry it's not great for our numbers," Hannah Chandler-Cooley,
NWS Sacramento meteorologist, told CNN.
There is, however, rain on the horizon for Northern California.
Later this week, Sacramento is forecast to receive the most rain they've seen
all year. Around a quarter to a half of an inch of rain is forecast, ending the
almost two-month long dry spell.
But this won't be nearly enough to significantly aid the water reserves.
"It is not a lot of rain for this time of year, especially considering how dry
we've been the last couple of months," said Chandler-Cooley. "At this point,
anything helps. But in terms of the overall water storage, this won't have
much of an impact."
Lack of rain and snow has left California high and dry
This dry period is just one event within a multiyear drought that contributes
to the even longer multidecade megadrought in the area.
"You can think of the current drought as an expression of the longer term
megadrought that is unfolding across the American Southwest," Mankin says.
Stepping back to look at the big picture is important in cases such as these.
"Just like we can have floods in the midst of a drought — a single storm
missed does not make a drought like this; a single storm caught does not
break a drought like this -- we can have multiple wet and dry periods in the
context of a much longer dry period," Mankin added.
Climate change has played a large role in more than two decades of drought.
"Recent work has suggested that global warming that has occurred to date
has made the drought over the last year about 20% worse than it otherwise
would have been," Mankin said. The most dire consequence of below-average
precipitation, especially in the context of a multiyear drought, is that there is
less water for everything. Ecosystems, households, industries, and agriculture
may all suffer from lack of water, Mankin emphasized.
The lack of precipitation in this region has and will continue to lead to
devastating impacts on the environment and people who live there, such as
the water restrictions placed on the Colorado River for first time.
Citing drought, US won’t give water to California farmers
By ADAM BEAM February 23, 2022 AP News https://apnews.com/article/business-environment-and-nature-california-
droughts-environment-c86858b419e8412491c303063309d91e
SACRAMENTO, Calif. (AP) — With California entering the third year of severe drought, federal officials said Wednesday they
won’t deliver any water to farmers in the state’s major agricultural region — a decision that will force many to plant fewer
crops in the fertile soil that yields the bulk of the nation’s fruits, nuts and vegetables. “It’s devastating to the agricultural
economy and to those people that rely on it,” said Ernest Conant, regional director for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation. “But
unfortunately we can’t make it rain.”
The federal government operates the Central Valley Project in California, a complex system of dams, reservoirs and canals.
It’s one of two major water systems the state relies on for agriculture, drinking water, and the environment. The other
system is run by the state government. Water agencies contract with the federal government for certain amounts of water
each year. In February, the federal government announces how much of those contracts can be fulfilled based on how much
water is available. The government then updates the allocations throughout the year based on conditions.
Farmers started last year with a 5% allocation from the federal government but ended at 0% as the drought intensified. This
year, the federal government is starting farmers at 0% while water for other purposes, including drinking and industrial uses,
is at 25%.
“Last year was a very bad year. This year could turn out to be worse,” Conant said. Westlands Water District, the nation’s
largest agricultural water district covering 1,000 square miles (2,590 square kilometers) in Fresno and Kings counties, said
drought conditions last year caused farmers to fallow 200,000 acres (80,937 hectares) while leaving “thousands of acres of
food unharvested.” The district said it is the fourth time this decade that farmers south of the San Joaquin-Sacramento River
Delta have gotten no water from the federal government. The water system operated by the state government is also
struggling. In December, state officials also announced a 0% allocation. They upgraded that to 15% allocation in January
after strong December storms. “Anyone who’s looked out the window in the past two months knows that California has not
seen any significant rain and snow during what are supposed to be our wettest months of the year,” said Karla Nemeth,
director of the California Department of Water Resources. “While December saw record storms, this type of climate
whiplash makes it challenging to forecast conditions ahead.”
State law requires both systems to have enough water available to maintain water quality throughout the San Joaquin-
Sacramento River Delta, a sensitive environmental region home to endangered species of fish. Despite that, endangered
species of fish — including salmon — have been dying by the thousands because there hasn’t been enough cold water for
them to survive. In a news release, the Westlands Water District said it was disappointed with the allocation but
understood the drought and environmental laws “prevent Reclamation from making water available under the District’s
contract.” Regina Chichizola, executive director for Save California Salmon, said environmental water releases are important
because they keep ocean saltwater from creeping too far into freshwater rivers. “Fish and people need that water,” she
said.
Most of the water for both systems comes from rain and snow in the Sierra Nevada mountains. That water flows into the
state’s rivers, which then fill a series of major reservoirs throughout the state. Typically, the reservoirs get depleted during
the dry summer months before being replenished by winter storms.
But California is now entering the third year of a severe drought, with rain and snowfall far below historical averages.
January and February are usually the wettest months of the year in California. But the northern Sierra mountains, which are
important for filling some of the state’s biggest reservoirs, have had just 1.7 inches (4.3 centimeters) of rain over those two
months. That’s the lowest ever recorded, breaking a record set in 2013, said Kristin White, Central Valley operations
manager for the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation.
The Central Valley Project’s reservoirs have decreased by 26.5%compared with last year. And through the end of
September, federal officials predict the reservoirs will get 1.2 million acre feet (1.4 billion cubic meters) less of water than
they had planned. One acre-foot of water is typically enough to supply two average households for one year.
IPCC issues ‘bleakest warning yet’ on impacts of climate breakdown
https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2022/feb/28/ipcc-issues-
bleakest-warning-yet-impacts-climate-breakdown
Report says human actions are causing dangerous disruption, and window to
secure a liveable future is closing
Analysis: This report asks: what is at stake? In short, everything
Climate breakdown is accelerating rapidly, many of the impacts will be more severe than predicted and there is
only a narrow chance left of avoiding its worst ravages, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has
said.
Even at current levels, human actions in heating the climate are causing dangerous and widespread disruption,
threatening devastation to swathes of the natural world and rendering many areas unliveable, according to the
landmark report published on Monday.
“The scientific evidence is unequivocal: climate change is a threat to human wellbeing and the health of the
planet,” said Hans-Otto Pörtner, a co-chair of working group 2 of the IPCC. “Any further delay in concerted global
action will miss a brief and rapidly closing window to secure a liveable future.”
Droughts, floods, heatwaves
In what some scientists termed “the bleakest warning yet”, the summary report from the global authority on
climate science says droughts, floods, heatwaves and other extreme weather are accelerating and wreaking
increasing damage.
Allowing global temperatures to increase by more than 1.5C above pre-industrial levels, as looks likely on current
trends in greenhouse gas emissions, would result in some “irreversible” impacts. These include the melting of ice
caps and glaciers, and a cascading effect whereby wildfires, the die-off of trees, the drying of peatlands and the
thawing of permafrost release additional carbon emissions, amplifying the warming further.
‘Atlas of human suffering’
António Guterres, the UN secretary general, said: “I have seen many scientific reports in my time, but nothing like
this. Today’s IPCC report is an atlas of human suffering and a damning indictment of failed climate leadership.”
John Kerry, the US special presidential envoy for climate, said the report “paints a dire picture of the impacts
already occurring because of a warmer world and the terrible risks to our planet if we continue to ignore science.
We have seen the increase in climate-fuelled extreme events, and the damage that is left behind – lives lost and
livelihoods ruined. The question at this point is not whether we can altogether avoid the crisis – it is whether we
can avoid the worst consequences.”
The report says:
• Everywhere is affected, with no inhabited region escaping dire impacts from rising temperatures and
increasingly extreme weather.
• About half the global population – between 3.3 billion and 3.6 billion people – live in areas “highly vulnerable”
to climate change.
• Millions of people face food and water shortages owing to climate change, even at current levels of heating.
• Mass die-offs of species, from trees to corals, are already under way.
• 1.5C above pre-industrial levels constitutes a “critical level” beyond which the impacts of the climate crisis
accelerate strongly and some become irreversible.
• Coastal areas around the globe, and small, low-lying islands, face inundation at temperature rises of more than
1.5C.
• Key ecosystems are losing their ability to absorb carbon dioxide, turning them from carbon sinks to carbon
sources.
• Some countries have agreed to conserve 30% of the Earth’s land, but conserving half may be necessary to
restore the ability of natural ecosystems to cope with the damage wreaked on them.
Chance to avoid the worst
This is the second part of the IPCC’s latest assessment report, an updated, comprehensive review of global
knowledge of the climate, which has been seven years in the making and draws on the peer-reviewed work of
thousands of scientists. The assessment report is the sixth since the IPCC was first convened by the UN in 1988,
and may be the last to be published while there is still some chance of avoiding the worst.
A first instalment, by the IPCC’s working group 1, published last August, on the physical science of climate change,
said the climate crisis was “unequivocally” caused by human actions, resulting in changes that were
“unprecedented”, with some becoming “irreversible”.
This second part, by working group 2, deals with the impacts of climate breakdown, sets out areas where the world
is most vulnerable, and details how we can try to adapt and protect against some of the impacts. A third section, due
in April, will cover ways to cut greenhouse gas emissions, and the final part, in October, will summarise these
lessons for governments meeting in Egypt for the UN Cop27 climate summit.
‘Cataclysmic’ for small islands
Small islands will be among those worst affected. Walton Webson, an ambassador of Antigua and Barbuda and the
chair of the Alliance of Small Island States, called the findings “cataclysmic”.
He urged the UN to convene a special session to consider action. “We are continuing to head for a precipice – we
say our eyes are open to the risks, but when you look at global emissions, if anything we are accelerating towards
the cliff edge. We are not seeing the action from the big emitters that is required to get emissions down in this
critical decade – this means halving emissions by 2030 at the latest. It is clear that time is slipping away from us.”
Governments in other parts of the world could help their people to adapt to some of the impacts of the climate crisis,
the report says, by building flood defences, helping farmers to grow different crops, or building more resilient
infrastructure. But the authors say the capacity of the world to adapt to the impacts will diminish rapidly the
further temperatures rise, quickly reaching “hard” limits beyond which adaptation would be impossible.
‘Global dominoes’
The climate crisis also has the power to worsen problems such as hunger, ill-health and poverty, the report makes
clear. Dave Reay, the director of Edinburgh Climate Change Institute at the University of Edinburgh, said: “Like
taking a wrecking ball to a set of global dominoes, climate change in the 21st century threatens to destroy the
foundations of food and water security, smash onwards through the fragile structures of human and ecosystem
health, and ultimately shake the very pillars of human civilisation.”
The report plays down fears of conflicts arising from the climate crisis, finding that “displacement” and
“involuntary migration” of people would ensue but that “non-climatic factors are the dominant drivers of existing
intrastate violent conflicts”.
But Jeffrey Kargel, a senior scientist at the Planetary Science Institute in the US, said: “The current warfare activity
in eastern Europe, though not attributable to climate change, is a further caution about how human tensions and
international relations and geopolitics could become inflamed as climate change impacts hit nations in ways that
they are ill-prepared to handle.”