PC Resolution 2022-019 St. Francis Expansion EA 2019-0003 PLANNING COMMISSION RESOLUTION 2022-019
A RESOLUTION OF THE PLANNING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR THE ST FRANCIS
OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH PARISH HALL
EXPANSION LOCATED AT 47225 WASHINGTON
STREET
CASE NUMBER:
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2019-0003
APPLICANT: FREDERICK SAUNDERS
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta,
California did, on July 26, 2022, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to
consider a request by Frederick Saunders, on behalf of the St. Francis of
Assisi Church, for approval of a 27,334 square foot expansion for new
buildings at an existing church, generally located at 47225 Washington
Street, more particularly described as:
APN 643-090-035
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a
public hearing notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on July 15, 2022 as
prescribed by the Municipal Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to
all property owners within 500 feet of the site; and
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 California Environmental Quality Act to justify approval of said
Environmental Assessment:
1. The proposed project will not have the potential to degrade the
quality of the environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a fish
or wildlife population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten
to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce the number or
restrict the range of rare or endangered plants or animals or
eliminate important examples of the major periods of California
history or prehistory. Potential impacts can be mitigated to be less
than significant.
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-019
Environmental Assessment 2019-0003
Project: St Francis of Assisi Expansion
Adopted: July 26, 2022
Page 2 of 3
2. The proposed project will not result in impacts which are
individually limited or cumulatively considerable when considering
planned or proposed development in the immediate vicinity.
Potential impacts can be mitigated to be less than significant.
3. The proposed project will not have environmental effects that will
adversely affect the human population, either directly or indirectly.
Potential impacts associated with biological resources, cultural and
tribal resources, and noise can be mitigated to be less than
significant.
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;
SECTION 2. That the Planning Commission hereby does adopt Environmental
Assessment 2019-0003 with mitigation measures incorporated [Exhibit A].
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the
City of La Quinta Planning Commission, held on July 26, 2022, by the
following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
CITY OF LA QUINTA
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, California 92253
Phone: (760) 777-7125
ENVIRONMENTAL INITIAL STUDY
Project Title: St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
City Project No: SDP2019-004
EA2019-0003
CUP2019-0001
Lead Agency
Name and Address: City of La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, California 92253
Phone: (760) 328-2266
Applicant: The Roman Catholic Bishop of San Bernardino, A Sole Corporation
c/o Fredrick Saunders
47225 Washington Street
La Quinta, CA 92253
Representative: The Roman Catholic Bishop of San Bernardino, A Sole Corporation
c/o Fredrick Saunders
47225 Washington Street
La Quinta, CA 92253
Contact Person &
Phone Number: Carlos Flores
Senior Planner
Phone: (760) 777-7069
Project Location: 47225 Washington Street
Assessor’s Parcel Number 643-090-035.
General Plan Designation: Low Density Residential – 2-4 du/ac Maximum (RL).
Zoning Designation: Low Density Residential – 2-4 du/ac Maximum (RL).
Planning Commission Resolution 2022-019
Environmental Assessment 2019-0003
Project: St. Francis of Assisi Church
Adopted: July 26, 2022
EXHIBIT A
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion project (“project”) proposes to develop approximately 4.43
acres south of the existing Saint Francis of Assisi Church, in the City of La Quinta, California. The project site is
currently characterized as a graded and unpaved overflow parking area, a paved church adjacent parking area and
a portion of the paved main parking lot associated with the existing Church. Project development will include the
construction of the proposed parish hall, administrative offices, walking paths, parking spaces, and associated
infrastructure and landscaping.
Currently the 4.43-acre project site bounded by the existing Saint Francis of Assisi Church on the north, the bulk of
the existing main parking lot associated with the Church on the east, vacant land on the south, and open space slopes
of the Santa Rosa Mountains on the west. Washington Street is located on the eastern boundary of the paved parking
lot.
In 2002, the St. Francis of Assisi Church applied for an Environmental Assessment 2002-463, Conditional Use
Permit 2002-463, and Site Development Permit 2002-755 to construct a temporary parking lot. The temporary
parking lot, which was proposed in the project area, would be grass and allow a capacity of 207 vehicles. In 2003,
City Council approved the applications for the temporary parking lot. The temporary grass lot was illuminated with
12-foot-high shoebox lighting fixtures, and utilized telephone poles to separate vehicles and define the parking area.
The City Council approved the application for the temporary parking lot on May 20, 2003.
Years later, the Church applied to construct a permanent parking lot over the temporary lot (Environmental
Assessment 2006-564, Conditional Use Permit 2006-097, and Site Development Permit 2006-860). The permanent
parking lot would allow 220 paved parking spaces, a temporary overflow parking lot with a capacity of 134 gravel-
surface parking spaces, a retention basin, and landscaping within the southern portion of the Church site. The
completion of the permanent parking lot would allow a total parking capacity of 532 parking spaces. The
Environmental Assessment determined that the project would not result in significant impacts that could not be
mitigated to a less than significant level. The plan was approved in 2010 and developed by 2011. This plan currently
characterizes the project site.
The current zoning designation for the proposed project site is Low Density Residential (RL). RL zones are typically
appropriate for attached or detached single family residential developments, allowing up to four dwelling units per
acre, however, churches are permitted in this land use designation with the approval of a conditional use permit.
The project site currently serves as a church property; however, a revised conditional use permit to update the
project site will be submitted as part of the project.
Access to the project site occurs at one location from Washington Street, at the Washington Street and Avenue 47
intersection, where traffic signal control is provided. Traffic entering the site from the Washington Street and
Avenue 47 intersection maneuvers onto the Washington Street frontage road, and travels southbound to the Project
Main Driveway. Traffic exiting the project site either returns northbound along the Washington Street frontage road
to Avenue 47, or travels southbound along the Washington Street frontage road to enter Washington Street
southbound travel lanes. The project does not propose changes to the existing access routes to and from the project
site. On-site parking consists of a combination of paved parking areas (west, north, and southeast of the sanctuary)
as well as an unpaved parking lot (south of the sanctuary).
The project proposes the development of a parish hall building and administrative office building. Both buildings
will be located south of the existing church building. The existing and proposed building areas are provided in the
table below.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 3
Table 1 Existing and Proposed Building Area
Existing Buildings Area
Square Feet (sf)
Sanctuary 13,474 sf
Parish hall 5,727, sf
Pastoral Center 7,709 sf
Total existing 26,910 sf
Proposed Buildings Area
Square Feet (sf)
Parish hall 22,499 sf
Administrative 4,835 sf
Total New 27,334 sf
Total Building Area 57,434 sf
The parish hall building is proposed to include a 7,012-sf parish hall with 930-sf stage. Additional rooms in the
parish hall building would include a lobby, choral room, kitchen, pantry, maintenance room, restrooms, office, ten
meeting rooms, storage, workroom, and additional miscellaneous rooms associated with the operation of the parish
hall building. The administration office building is proposed east of the parish hall and would include an
administration lobby, reception area, counseling room, conference room, break room, ten office rooms, storage, and
restrooms. The parish hall and administrative offices are proposed to occur in separate buildings.
The Church currently does not have adequate indoor meeting space for patrons. The meetings are currently held in
Bluett Hall and consists of 2,600 square feet of outdated space. The current meeting space is not capable of holding
large meeting or event, resulting in overflow into outdoor gardens and courtyard areas to accommodate attendees.
The current space does not have technology or security. The proposed project buildings and improvements are
intended to accommodate meetings currently held in the inadequate indoor spaces and outdoor gardens and
courtyards. The new parish hall meeting and events room will have the latest technology for lighting, sound and
communications and security. Because the new buildings would replace the existing meeting spaces, the proposed
project will not increase membership at the Church. Additionally, the proposed meeting rooms/event center will not
be used at the same time as the sanctuary. With the addition of new enclosed meeting spaces and offices, existing
staff offices and activities will transfer to the new and improved facilities.
In addition to the parish hall and administrative offices, improvements to the on-site parking conditions are
proposed. The project proposes 154 standard (9 x 19) stalls, 3 handicap stalls, and 1 handicap van accessible stall.
The project will provide a total of 518 paved parking spaces for the entire church property. The project is proposed
to occur in one phase.
As a part of the entitlement process to allow the proposed uses, the project applicant is submitting a Site
Development Plan (SDP2019-0004), this Environmental Assessment (EA2019-0003), and a Conditional Use
Permit (CUP2019-0001). The SDP is required by the City for approval of site-specific landscape design,
architectural design, and site plan. This environmental assessment analyzes the impacts of the proposed project.
Finally, the CUP is required to amend the existing CUP. The City of La Quinta will review the project site plan and
entitlements.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 4
Land Use and Setting
North – Low Density Residential (RL)
South – Vacant land – Low Density Residential (RL)
East – General Commercial land use – Community Commercial zone (CC)
West – Open Space – Natural (OS)
N.T.S.
MSA CONSULTING, INC.
> PLANNING > CIVIL ENGINEERING > LAND SURVEYING
34200 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.320.9811 msaconsultinginc.com
VICINITY MAP EXHIBIT
1ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH EXPANSION
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
SITE
WESTWARD HO DR.
CITY OF
ADAMS STREETDUNE PALMSAVENUE 48
WASHINGTON ST.DRIVE
EISENHOWERAVENUE 50
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1
1
1
ROADLA QUINTA
WASHINGTON STREETAVENUE 47
LAKE LA QUINTA DR.
PROJECT SITE
N.T.S.
MSA CONSULTING, INC.
> PLANNING > CIVIL ENGINEERING > LAND SURVEYING
34200 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.320.9811 msaconsultinginc.com
AERIAL PHOTOGRAPH EXHIBIT
2ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH EXPANSION
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
MSA CONSULTING, INC.> PLANNING > CIVIL ENGINEERING > LAND SURVEYING34200 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270760.320.9811 msaconsultinginc.comPROJECT SITE PLANEXHIBIT3ST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH EXPANSIONMITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 8
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one
impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.
Aesthetics Agriculture and Forestry
Resources Air Quality
Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology / Soils Greenhouse Gas Emissions Hazards & Hazardous Materials
Hydrology / Water
Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources
Noise Population / Housing Public Services
Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities / Service
Systems Wildfire Mandatory Findings of
Significance
DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:
________________________________________________________
Signature:
City of La Quinta
__________________
Date:
I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a
NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will
not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to
by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant
unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed
in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation
measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because
all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE
DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant
to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that
are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration January 2022/Page 9 Table 1 St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Project Mitigation and Monitoring Program Section Mitigation Measures Responsible for Monitoring Timing Impact after Mitigation IV. Biological Resources BIO-1: The project developer shall adhere to the CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency Guidelines for projects adjacent to Conservation Areas. The following Land Use Adjacency Guidelines shall be considered by the Permittees in their review of individual public and private Development projects adjacent to or within the Conservation Areas to minimize edge effects and shall be implemented where applicable. 4.5.1 Drainage Proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate plans to ensure that the quantity and quality of runoff discharged to the adjacent Conservation Area is not altered in an adverse way when compared with existing conditions. Stormwater systems shall be designed to prevent the release of toxins, chemicals, petroleum products, exotic plant materials or other elements that might degrade or harm biological resources or ecosystem processes within the adjacent Conservation Area. 4.5.2 Toxics Land uses proposed adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that use chemicals or generate bioproducts such as manure that are potentially toxic or may adversely affect wildlife and plant species, Habitat, or water quality shall incorporate measures to ensure that application of such chemicals does not result in any discharge to the adjacent Conservation Area. 4.5.3 Lighting For proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area, lighting shall be shielded and directed toward the developed area. Landscape shielding or other appropriate methods shall be incorporated in project designs to minimize the effects of lighting adjacent to or within the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual. Developer Prior to building permits Less than significant
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration January 2022/Page 10 Section Mitigation Measures Responsible for Monitoring Timing Impact after Mitigation 4.5.4 Noise Proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that generates noise in excess of 75 dBA hourly shall incorporate setbacks, berms, or walls, as appropriate, to minimize the effects of noise on the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual. 4.5.5 Invasives Invasive, non-native plant species shall not be incorporated in the landscape for land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Area. Landscape treatments within or adjacent to a Conservation Area shall incorporate native plant materials to the maximum extent Feasible; recommended native species are listed in Table 4-112 of the CVMSHCP. The plants listed in Table 4-113 in the CVMSHCP shall not be used within or adjacent to a Conservation Area. This list may be amended from time to time through a Minor Amendment with Wildlife Agency Concurrence. BIO-2: The Plan prohibits the planting of oleanders on sites adjacent to Conservation Areas. Existing oleanders shall be removed. Planning Department Developer Prior to building permits Less than significant V. Cultural Resources CR-1: The presence of a qualified archaeologist shall be required during all project related ground disturbing activities, including clearing and grubbing. In the event that potentially significant archaeological materials are discovered, all work must be halted in the vicinity of the archaeological discovery until the archaeologist can assess the significance of the find, and its potential eligibility for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources (CRHC). Planning Department Qualified Archaeologist Developer During grading and other ground disturbing activities Less than significant CUL-2: The presence of an approved Native American Monitor of Cahuilla heritage is required during any ground disturbing activities. Should buried cultural deposits be encountered, the monitor may request that destructive construction halt in the vicinity of the deposits, and the monitor shall notify a qualified archaeologist (Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines), within 24 hours, to investigate. Additional consultation with the tribes may be required. Planning Department Approved Native American Monitor Developer During grading and other ground disturbing activities Less than significant
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration January 2022/Page 11 Section Mitigation Measures Responsible for Monitoring Timing Impact after Mitigation XVII. Tribal Cultural Resources TCR-1: Formal government consultation under California Assembly Bill No. 52 (AB 52) shall commence between the City of La Quinta and the ACBCI. City of La Quinta ACBCI Prior to building permits Less than significant TCR-2: Prior to any development activities, the project proponent shall provide a cultural resources inventory of the project area, conducted by a qualified archaeologist, a copy of the records search with associated survey reports and site records from the information center, and copies of any cultural resource documentation (report and site records) generated in connection with the project. Planning Department Project Applicant ACBCI Prior to any development activities Less than significant TCR-3: The presence of an approved Agua Caliente Native American Cultural Resource Monitor(s) shall be required during any ground disturbing activities (including archaeological testing and surveys). Should buried cultural deposits be encountered, the Monitor may request that destructive construction in that area stop, and the Monitor shall notify a Qualified Archaeologist (Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines) to investigate and, if necessary, prepare a mitigation plan for submission to the State Historic Preservation Officer and the Agua Caliente Tribal Historic Preservation Office. Planning Department Project Developer Agua Caliente Native American Cultural Resource Monitor Qualified Archaeologist During grading and other ground disturbing activities Less than significant
Environmental Checklist and Discussion:
The following checklist evaluates the proposed project’s potential adverse impacts. For those environmental topics
for which a potential adverse impact may exist, a discussion of the existing site environment related to the topic is
presented followed by an analysis of the project’s potential adverse impacts. When the project does not have any
potential for adverse impacts for an environmental topic, the reasons why there are no potential adverse impacts are
described.
1. AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public
Resources Code Section 21099, would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources,
including, but not limited to, trees, rock
outcroppings, and historic buildings within a state
scenic highway?
c) In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade the
existing visual character or quality of public views
of the site and its surroundings? (Public views are
those that are experienced from publicly accessible
vantage point). If the project is in an urbanized
area, would the project conflict with applicable
zoning or other regulations governing scenic
quality?
d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare,
which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area?
Sources: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, 2013; La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report,
2013; La Quinta Municipal Code.
Setting:
Caltrans State Scenic Highways
Caltrans manages the State Scenic Highway Program, provides guidance, and assists local government agencies,
community organizations and citizens with the process to officially designate scenic highways. The California
Scenic Highway Program was created in 1963 to protect and enhance the natural scenic beauty of California
highways and adjacent corridors, through special conservation treatment. The Streets and Highways Code, Sections
260 to 263 govern the Scenic Highway Program In the development of official scenic highways, Caltrans gives
special attention both to the impact of the highway on the landscape and to the highway’s visual appearance.
Scenic Vistas
The topography of the region progresses from the flat desert floor, where La Quinta is located, to the top of
mountaintops that rise over 10,000 feet. The contrast between the flat desert landscape and the mountain peaks
surrounding it provides views and picturesque landscapes for residents and visitors. The City of La Quinta is located
adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains to the west and south, which reach 8,717 feet at the Toro Peak. Coral Reef
Mountain makes up the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains and stands approximately 1,000 feet tall. Coral Reef
Mountain is located in the southern portion of the City.
Visual Character
The existing visual character of the City is both rural and suburban. In La Quinta, the rural visual character consists
of agricultural land uses typically found in the southeastern portion of the City, including the City’s Sphere of
Influence. The incorporated portion of La Quinta, however, exemplifies the suburban visual character, comprised
of residential neighborhoods, commercial shopping centers, office parks, golf courses, parks and community
facilities built along landscaped boulevards with curb, gutter and sidewalks. Buildings tend to be low-rise, which
preserves views of the surrounding mountains from private and public lands. An interconnected street system
provides accessibility throughout the City, and, for the most part, streets are developed with sidewalks, curbs, and
gutters. Landscaping along rights-of-way provides visual relief from the built environment and enhances the visual
character of the community (LQGP EIR, page III-5).
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 13
Light and Glare
Existing light and glare within the City are produced in areas such as the large commercial centers along Highway
111, the existing school playfields and recreational facilities, and major arterials.
a) Less Than Significant Impact. The perception and uniqueness of scenic vistas from a particular setting
vary according to location and surrounding context. According to the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update
(GPU), development within the City limits are generally built at lower densities, and buildings throughout
the planning area tend to be low rise structures. Views of local mountains and scenic vistas throughout the
incorporated portions are generally good, however views are also influenced by suburban development,
which includes the presence and intensity of man-made neighboring improvements (e.g., structures,
overhead utilities and vegetation). The massing of structures and vegetation in the project area and
surroundings interacts with the natural regional environmental and can obstruct or compliment the scenic
vistas. The evaluation of scenic vistas takes into consideration the physical compatibility of proposed
projects in relation to land uses, transportation corridors, or other vantage points, where the enjoyment of
unique vistas may exist, such as residential areas or scenic roads. Within the City, scenic vistas include
views of natural features, including the Santa Rosa, San Jacinto, and Little San Bernardino Mountains. The
development of new manmade structures, including buildings, streets, signage, walls, and landscaping has
the potential to replace or disrupt views of the surrounding natural landscape (2035 General Plan Update).
The approximately 4.43-acre project site currently operates as parking for the existing St. Francis of Assisi
Church property. The project area includes 219 paved and dirt parking spaces. Existing landscaping and
light fixtures are also onsite associated with the Church facility. The project property has been subject to
past development activities, due to its association with the St. Francis of Assisi Church. The project area
has served as a parking facility for the Church since 2002, when it was proposed to be temporary overflow
parking, and 2010, when the Church proposed a permanent parking lot. The project site is surrounded by
the existing sanctuary building of the Saint Francis of Assisi Church to the north, paved Church parking
spaces and drive aisles to the east, vacant land to the south, and the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains
to the west.
Due to the size of the mountains that border the City, views of these scenic vistas in the City are generally
unobstructed; however, this is largely dependent on viewpoint location since views can be obstructed by
existing structures and landscaping. From Washington Street, public views of the Santa Rosa Mountains to
the south and the Little San Bernardino Mountains to the north are distant and obstructed by manmade
structures and landscaping. The Santa Rosa Mountain foothills immediately west of the project site reaches
an elevation of approximately 650 feet and provides a natural landscape in the City. When viewed from
Washington Street, views of the base of the Santa Rosa Mountain foothills are obstructed by existing
structures and landscaping. However, midrange and peak views of the foothills are visible. The Santa Rosa
Mountains obstructs the views of the San Jacinto Mountains to the west. The exhibit below shows the
existing sanctuary building and proposed project building to the left.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 14
Exhibit 1-I
The project is proposing the development of a 22,499-square-foot parish hall, a 4,835-square-foot
administration office building, and associated parking on approximately 4.43 acres south of the existing St.
Francis of Assisi sanctuary buildings. Associated improvements include paved drive aisles and parking
spaces, pedestrian pathways, and landscaped features consistent with the existing Church facility. The
project will abide by building height and set back standards. Buildings within RL zones shall not exceed
28 feet or two-stories per La Quinta Municipal Code (LQMC) Chapter 9.50.030. The parish hall and
administration offices are not proposed to exceed two stories. The proposed administration office building
will be located closer to Washington Street and will be a maximum height of 19 feet. The administration
building complies with LQMC Chapter 9.50.030. The proposed parish hall building is proposed to be
approximately 30 feet 8 inches in height. As previously stated, buildings within RL designations are not to
exceed 28 feet in height, however, the project proposes a 10 percent height deviation to allow for the 30-
foot building. The City of La Quinta will review the elevation plans provided by the project applicant. The
proposed 30-foot parish hall will be located east of the administration building. Also, in comparison to the
existing sanctuary building associated with the St. Francis of Assisi Church (north of the proposed project),
the new parish hall building will be reduced in scale compared to the sanctuary building.
The building mass and scale is not proposed to significantly impact the view of the Santa Rosa Mountain
foothills west of the site when viewed from public viewsheds (i.e., Washington Street). The project is not
anticipated to obstruct the scenic vistas in the City. The distant Santa Rosa Mountains to the south will
remain visible to motorists and pedestrians traveling along Washington Street that can currently view them
post project development. See Exhibit 1-I above. The project will also comply with the standards and
guidelines set within the La Quinta Municipal Code for buildings within RL zones. Overall, the project is
not expected to have a substantial impact on the existing scenic vistas.
Mitigation: None
b) Less Than Significant Impact. A review of the California Scenic Highway Mapping System web site
revealed that the project is not located adjacent to or near any state or county, eligible or designated scenic
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 15
highway. As such, the proposed site plan, architectural design, and landscaping design would not result in
in adverse impacts to scenic resources within a state scenic highway.
Independent of the Caltrans Scenic Highway Program, the Circulation Element of the La Quinta 2035
General Plan Update (GPU) identifies roadways that are considered Image Corridors. Washington Street,
east of the project site, is designated as an Image Corridor. Image corridors, as defined by the GPU, are
City public rights-of-way that provide views of scenic resources and the natural landscape. These views
may be threatened by inappropriate and unattractive land uses and landscaping, inadequately buffered
parking, excessive or inappropriate signage, high walls and berms that block views and overhead power
lines that degrade views.
As previously stated, the project proposes the development of a 22,499-sf parish hall, a 4,835-sf
administration office building, and parking lot associated with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church
property. The proposed buildings will be cohesive with the design of the existing church building
(sanctuary). Additionally, the proposed buildings will be appropriate in mass and scale that will
complement the existing church. The proposed administration office building will be a maximum height of
19 feet. The administration building complies with LQMC Chapter 9.50.030 designating building height
within RL zones. The proposed parish hall building is proposed to be approximately 30 feet 8 inches in
height. As previously stated, the project proposes a 10 percent height deviation to allow for the 30-foot
building. The City of La Quinta will review the elevation plans provided by the project applicant. The
proposed 30-foot parish hall will be located east of the administration building. Also, in comparison to the
existing sanctuary building associated with the St. Francis of Assisi Church (north of the proposed project),
the new parish hall building will be reduced in scale compared to the sanctuary building. Project
landscaping will also be consistent with the existing onsite landscaping, which includes desert and drought-
tolerant trees, shrubs and ground coverings. Title 9 Chapter 9.50.020 (Height limits and setbacks near
image corridors) of La Quinta’s Municipal Code, requires that additional height limitations shall apply to
buildings within 150 feet of the edge of right-of-way of the following general plan-designated image
corridors. The project is located more than 150 feet from the Washington Street right-of-way, therefore,
additional height restrictions do not apply. Overall, adverse impacts to the image corridors are expected to
be less than significant.
Additionally, the project site does not contain scenic resources onsite due to its current use as a parking lot.
As previously stated, the project will not substantially obstruct views of the Santa Rosa Mountain foothills,
west of the site due to the foothill’s height compared to the scale of the proposed church buildings.
According to the California Scenic Highway Mapping System, the La Quinta 2035 GPU and EIR, the
project site is not anticipated to result in adverse impacts to scenic resources within a state scenic highway.
Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. According to the La Quinta General Plan Update Environmental Impact
Report (GPU EIR), the existing visual character of the City can be characterized as both suburban and rural.
The incorporated portion of the City, including the project site, is located in the suburban context, which is
influenced by typical suburban land uses, including residential neighborhoods, commercial shopping
centers, office parks, golf courses, parks and community facilities. These land uses are built along
landscaped boulevards with curb, gutter and sidewalks.
The project site occupies approximately 4.43 acres of the south/southwestern portion of the St. Francis of
Assisi Church. The site is located within a suburban context of the City and is surrounded by the Church to
the north, followed by a residential neighborhood, the Church parking lot followed by Washington Street
and commercial buildings to the east, vacant land followed by a residential neighborhood to the south, and
the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains to the west.
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The project site is currently located within the City’s Low Density Residential (RL) land use and zoning
designation. RL zones are typically appropriate for attached or detached single family residential
developments, allowing up to four dwelling units per acre, however, churches are permitted in this land use
designation with the approval of a conditional use permit (CUP). The proposed project would require an
amendment to the existing CUP.
The project proposes to develop a parish hall, administration offices, and parking spaces in association with
the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. With the addition of new enclosed meeting spaces and offices,
existing staff and activities will transfer from outside communal areas to the new and improved facilities.
Paved parking surfaces will replace the existing unpaved parking lot.
The proposed buildings will be developed to complement the existing Church in architecture and design.
As such, the placement, scale, and design of the proposed buildings are expected to replace existing paved
and unpaved parking lots. Project design, including architecture and landscape architecture, will require
review and approval by the City to ensure that aesthetic considerations are addressed in the design.
Moreover, building size and scale will not conflict with the existing Church building or the established
standards regulating scenic quality in RL zones. With the compliance of City standards, the project is not
expected to conflict with applicable zoning or other regulation governing the scenic quality of the site,
therefore, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
d) Less than Significant Impact. The proposed project occurs on a previously disturbed, 4.43-acre property
on the southwest portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Church property in the City of La Quinta. The project
property is surrounded by the sanctuary building of the St. Francis of Assisi Church to the north, parking
lot followed by Washington Street and commercial buildings to the east, vacant land followed by a
residential community to the south, and open space and mountain slopes to the west. Existing sources of
fixed nighttime lighting in the project’s vicinity can be attributed to the existing church, homes, commercial
uses, traffic signals at the intersection of Washington Street, and ground mounted parking lot light fixtures
on the project site, as well as north and east of the project site. Individual home lighting typically consists
of low-intensity, wall-mounted, downward-oriented fixtures in the patio, side and front yards of homes.
Church lighting also consists of wall-mounted, downward-oriented fixtures along building frontages near
entrances, and pole-mounted downward-oriented fixtures in the parking lot. Along Washington Street,
nighttime vehicular circulation, traffic lights, and landscaping illumination contribute to the nighttime
ambient lighting. Day-time glare can also be attributed to the existing vehicular traffic.
The proposed project includes development of a parish hall, administration buildings, and parking spaces
associated with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. The proposed exterior materials for the church
buildings will be consistent with the existing sanctuary building located north of the project. Colors
complimentary to the surrounding desert landscape are proposed as part of project implementation.
Building surfaces will not have highly reflective construction materials or other conditions that would cause
substantial day-time or nighttime glare. The proposed building finishes, which primarily consist of cement
plaster and other complimentary materials, are expected to have low solar reflectivity. The proposed
landscaping and building setbacks will function as a screen to soften the visibility of buildings from the
streets.
The project will provide various forms of lighting to adequately illuminate the parking areas, entrances,
walkways, building frontages, and other project features for security purposes. The use of exterior light
fixtures will be made compatible with the architectural and materials of the buildings. In compliance with
Chapter 9.100.150 of the La Quinta Municipal Code, the proposed exterior lighting shall be either fully or
partially shielded and located and directed so as not to shine directly on adjacent properties. Lighting within
the project parking lot will be consistent with LQMC Section 9.150.080(J). Per the project photometric
plan, the project will include 12 light poles throughout the project site to illuminate the roadways and
parking lot. Per the photometric plan, the proposed project will not exceed 0.1 footcandles along adjacent
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areas west, south, and east of the project boundaries. The light fixtures proposed in the northern portion of
the project will illuminate the proposed driveway and areas adjacent to this area up to 0.5 footcandles. See
the exhibit below for project photometric plan. Building lighting will consist of downward-oriented fixtures
in strategic locations and will avoid fixtures at unnecessary locations.
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Exhibit 1-II Project Photometric Plan
Pertaining to glare, the project would not introduce facilities with large reflective surfaces that would
generate substantial glare, nor would the project involve new sources of high-intensity lighting that would
be deemed incompatible with the existing uses surrounding the project property. The proposed materials
will be painted with flat or non-reflective finishes, therefore preventing daytime glare. The proposed
structures are expected to have earth-tone finishes that do not have highly reflective properties or other
conditions that would cause substantial daytime or nighttime glare. Less than significant impacts are
expected.
Mitigation: None
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2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
RESOURCES –
In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead
agencies may refer to the California Agricultural
Land Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997)
prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as
an optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. In determining whether
impacts to forest resources, including timberland, are
significant environmental effects, lead agencies may
refer to information compiled by the California
Department of Forestry and Fire Protection regarding
the state’s inventory of forest land, including the
Forest and Range Assessment project; and forest
carbon measurement methodology provided in Forest
Protocols adopted by the California Air Resources
Board. Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the
Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program of the
California Resources Agency, to non-agricultural
use?
b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use,
or a Williamson Act contract?
c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of forest land, timberland, or timberland
zoned Timberland Production?
d) Result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non-forest use?
e) Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in
conversion of Farmland, to non-agricultural use?
Sources: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, 2013; La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report,
2013; California Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program, California Department of Conservation, 2016.
Setting:
The project site and the City of La Quinta General Plan area is characterized by the urban context, primarily
consisting of residential and commercial developments. Per the La Quinta General Plan Environmental Impact
Report (LQGP EIR), significant agricultural resources within the City of La Quinta no longer exist. However,
agriculture is still an economic factor east of the incorporated boundary, within the City’s Sphere of Influence. The
La Quinta General Plan facilitates urban development on lands designated as Prime Farmland, Farmland of
Statewide Importance, Unique Farmland, and Farmland of Local Importance since agricultural production and have
been designated for urban uses for some time.
California Land Conservation Act of 1965
The California Land Conservation Act of 1965 (the “Williamson Act”) encourages the preservation of agricultural
lands through tax incentives due to the increasing trend toward the conversion of agricultural lands and urban uses.
The act enables counties and cities to designate agricultural preserves (Williamson Act lands) and within these
preserves, offer preferential taxation to agricultural landowners based on the agricultural income producing value
of the property. There are no active or permitted quarries identified within the City of La Quinta’s General Plan
area; however, approximately 582 acres of land in the City’s Sphere of Influence, have been set aside for farmland
conversion under the Williamson Act provisions.
State Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
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The California Department of Conservation (DOC) established the Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program
(FMMP) in 1982 as a non-regulatory program that provides a consistent and impartial analysis of agricultural land
use and land use changes throughout California. The FMMP produces maps and statistical data used for analyzing
impacts on California’s agricultural resources. Prime agricultural land is rated according to soil quality and
irrigation status and identified by the following categories: Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, Farmland of
Statewide Importance, Farmland of Local Importance, Urban and Built-Up Land, and Other Land. Each category
is described as follows:
Prime Farmland: areas with both good physical and chemical attributes able to sustain long-term
agricultural production.
Farmland of Statewide Importance: areas that have a good combination of physical and biological
characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops, and is available for these uses.
Unique Farmland: areas that produce crops of statewide importance; however, contain lower quality
soils than those within Prime Farmland.
Farmland of Local Importance: lands generally without irrigation, and which produce dry crops that
may be important locally but are not important for statewide agriculture production.
Urban Built-Up Land: areas occupied by structures with a building density of at least 1 unit to 1.5 acres,
or approximately 6 structures to a 10-acre parcel.
Other Land: areas of land not included in any other mapping category.
According to the most recent (2016) FMMP, the most prominent categories within the City of La Quinta are Urban
Built-Up Land and Other Land. Farmland of Local Importance and Unique Farmland are also present within the
City limits, however, agricultural production within the City has been designated for urban uses.
Lands under the Williamson Act, or California Land Conservation Act, are agricultural lands that allow special tax
assessment. These lands are taxed on the basis of agricultural production rather than market value. The goal of the
Williamson Act is to protect agricultural land from being sold for development. 582 acres of land with Williamson
Act contracts are located in the City’s Sphere of Influence. Based on 2008 Riverside County data, approximately
218.9 acres were in renewal, and 363 acres were in non-renewal. Non-renewal indicates that the farmland reverts
back to market conditions and can be sold at fair market value. Farmland in non-renewal status generally indicates
agricultural land will be developed to non-agricultural land uses.
a-e) No Impact. The proposed project is located in the southern portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Church
property and west of Washington Street in the City of La Quinta. The approximately 4.43-acre project is
proposing to develop a parish hall and administration building along with associated parking south of the
existing Church building. The project site currently operates as paved overflow parking for the existing
Church. The project is not located on lands zoned for agriculture and is not covered by a Williamson Act
contract. There are no areas of forest land, timberland or timberland zoned Timberland Production.
According to the Williamson Act 2016 Status Report, no portion of the land is within or near a recognized
Williamson Act Contract area. There are no other agricultural areas or related zoning polices with which
the proposed project would conflict. The project will not impact or remove any portion of land from the
County’s agricultural zoning or agricultural preserve.
Additionally, the 2016 California Farmland Mapping and Monitoring Program (FMMP) indicates that the
property is designated as “Other Land” on a majority of the 4.43-acre site. A small of the northern portion
of the site is designated “Urban and Built-up Land”, as established by the California Department of
Conservation. Other Land is defined as land not included in any other mapping category. Urban and Built-
up Land, as defined by the Department of Conservation, is occupied by structures with a building density
of at least one unit to 1.5 acres, or approximately 6 structures to a 10-acre parcel. Typical examples include
residential, industrial, commercial, institutional facilities, to name a few. The surrounding land to the north,
east, and south are also designated as Urban and Built-up Land, while the area west of the project site, the
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Santa Rosa foothills, is designated as Other Land. These FMMP land designations do not support
agricultural uses.
Moreover, the project site is located within a residential land use and zoning designation established by the
City of La Quinta. The project site is not located in an existing zone for agricultural use or classified as
farmland.
Further, no forest land, timberland, or Timberland Production zone occurs on the project site or in the
surrounding areas, largely because forest vegetation is uncharacteristic of the Coachella Valley’s desert
floor environment. Therefore, the proposed project will have no impact on agricultural or forestry resources.
Mitigation: None
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3. AIR QUALITY – Where available, the
significance criteria established by the applicable
air quality management district or air pollution
control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria pollutant for which the
project region is non-attainment under an
applicable federal or state ambient air quality
standard?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations?
d) Result in other emissions (such as those
leading to odors adversely affecting a substantial
number of people?
Sources: Saint Francis of Assisi Air Quality Impact Analysis, by Urban Crossroads, July 7, 2020; Final 2016 Air Quality
Management Plan (AQMP), by SCAQMD, March 2017; Final 2003 Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan
(CVSIP), by SCAQMD, August 2003; Analysis of the Coachella Valley PM10 Redesignation Request and Maintenance Plan,
by the California Air Resources Board, February 2010
Setting:
Existing Air Quality Regulatory Framework
The project site and its Coachella Valley regional context are situated within the Riverside County portion of the
Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB), under jurisdiction of the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD).
Existing air quality in relation to the applicable air quality standards for criteria air pollutants is measured at
established air quality monitoring stations throughout the SCAQMD jurisdiction. The three permanent ambient air
quality monitoring stations in the Coachella Valley are located in Palm Springs (AQS ID 060655001), Indio (AQS
ID 060652002), and Mecca (Saul Martinez - AQS ID 060652005).
To comply with the National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) and California Ambient Air Quality
Standards (CAAQS), SCAQMD has adopted an Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), which is updated regularly
with strategies to effectively reduce emissions, accommodate growth, and minimize any negative fiscal impacts of
air pollution control on the economy. The most current version of the AQMP (2016 AQMP) was released in March
of 2017 to continue serving as a regional blueprint for achieving the federal air quality standards with the most
current strategies to meet the air quality standards and ensure that public health is protected to the maximum extent
feasible. The 2016 AQMP incorporates scientific and technological information and planning assumptions,
including the 2016 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS), a planning
document that supports the integration of land use and transportation to help the region meet the federal Clean Air
Act requirements. It also factors a comprehensive analysis of emissions, meteorology, atmospheric chemistry,
regional growth projections, and the impact of existing control measures is updated with the latest data and methods.
Moreover, 2016 AQMP provides guidance for the State Implementation Plans (SIP) for attainment of the applicable
ambient air quality standards.
Particulate Matter (PM10):
As indicated in the 2016 AQMP, the Coachella Valley is currently designated as a serious nonattainment area for
PM10 (particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 microns or less). In the Coachella Valley, the man-
made sources of PM10 are attributed to direct emissions, industrial facilities, and fugitive dust resulting from
unpaved roads and construction operations. High-wind natural events are also known contributors of PM10. The
Clean Air Act (CAA) requires those states with nonattainment areas to prepare and submit the corresponding State
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Implementation Plans (SIPs) to demonstrate how these areas will attain the National Ambient Air Quality Standards
(NAAQS). The implementation strategies include modeling, rules, regulations, and programs designed to provide
the necessary air pollutant emissions reductions.
Pertaining to PM10 attainment, the Final 2003 Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan (CVSIP) was
approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) on December 14, 2005. It incorporated updated
planning assumptions, fugitive dust source emissions estimates, mobile source emissions estimates, and attainment
modeling with control strategies and measure commitments. Some of those measures are reflected in SCAQMD
Rules 403 and 403.1, which are enacted to reduce or prevent man-made fugitive dust sources with their associated
PM10 emissions. The CVSIP established the controls needed to demonstrate expeditious attainment of the standards
such those listed below:
Additional stabilizing or paving of unpaved surfaces, including parking lots;
A prohibition on building new unpaved roads;
Requiring more detailed dust control plans from builders in the valley that specify the use of more
aggressive and frequent watering, soil stabilization, wind screens, and phased development (as opposed to
mass grading) to minimize fugitive dust;
Designating a worker to monitor dust control at construction sites; and
Testing requirements for soil and road surfaces.
On February 25, 2010, the ARB approved the 2010 Coachella Valley PM10 Maintenance Plan and transmitted it to
the U.S. EPA for approval. With the recent data being collected at the Coachella Valley monitoring stations,
consideration of high-wind exceptional events, and submittal of a PM10 Re-designation Request and Maintenance
Plan, a re-designation to attainment status of the PM10 NAAQS is deemed feasible in the near future according to
the 2016 AQMP.
Ozone and Ozone Precursors:
The Coachella Valley portion of the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB) is deemed to be in nonattainment for the 1997 8-
hour ozone standard. Coachella Valley is unique in its geography due to its location downwind from the South
Coast Air Basin (SCAB). As such, when high levels of ozone are formed in the South Coast Air Basin, they are
transported to the Coachella Valley. Similarly, when ozone precursors such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile
organic compounds (VOCs) are emitted from mobile sources and stationary sources located in the South Coast Air
Basin, they are also transported to the Coachella Valley. It is worth noting that SCAQMD deems that local sources
of air pollution generated in the Coachella Valley have a limited impact on ozone levels compared to the transport
of ozone precursors generated in SCAB.
The U.S. EPA classifies areas of ozone nonattainment (i.e., Extreme, Severe, Serious, Moderate or Marginal) based
on the extent to which an area exceeds the air quality standard for that pollutant. The higher the exceedance level,
the more time is allowed to demonstrate attainment in recognition of the greater challenge involved. However,
nonattainment areas with the higher classifications are also subject to more stringent requirements. In the 2016
AQMP, the attainment target date for the 1997 8-hour ozone standard was listed as June 15, 2019. However, based
on recent data for higher levels of ozone experienced in 2017 and 2018, it was determined that the Coachella Valley
region could not practically attain the said standard by the established deadline. Given that additional time is needed
to bring the Coachella Valley into attainment of the ozone standard, SCAQMD submitted a formal request to the
United States Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) to reclassify the Coachella Valley from Severe-15 to
Extreme nonattainment, with a new attainment date of June 15, 2024. The reclassification ensures that the Coachella
Valley will be given the needed extension to make attainment feasible and prevent the imposition of the non-
attainment fees on major stationary sources. This process would also require SCAQMD to develop or update the
State Implementation Plan (SIP) documentation to demonstrate how the area will meet the standard on or before
June 15, 2024.
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SCAQMD continues to reduce ozone and improve air quality in the Coachella Valley, in part by providing more
than $50 million in grant funding towards paving dirt roads and parking lots, clean energy projects and cleaner
vehicles. Future emission reductions anticipated to occur in the South Coast Air Basin associated with current and
planned regulations on mobile and stationary sources are expected to contribute to improvements in ozone air
quality in the Coachella Valley and lead to attainment of the standard.
a) Less than Significant Impact. This analysis relies on the analytical and quantitative findings of the Saint
Francis of Assisi Air Quality Impact Analysis (AQIA), prepared by Urban Crossroads on July 7, 2020 with
the purpose of evaluating the potential impacts to air quality associated with construction and operation of
the proposed project. The AQIA findings are based in part on the numeric results from running the most
current California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod Version 2016.3.2) available at the time of AQIA
report preparation to calculate construction emissions and operational emissions from the project. This
computer software was developed in conjunction with the California Air Pollution Control Officers
Association (CAPCOA) and other California air districts to calculate criteria pollutants and greenhouse
gases using widely accepted methodologies, combined with default data that can be used when site-specific
information is not available. Sources of these methodologies and default data include, but are not limited
to, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) AP-42 emission factors, California Air
Resources Board (CARB) vehicle emission models, studies commissioned by California agencies such as
the California Energy Commission (CEC) and CalRecycle.
Air quality impacts can be deemed significant if there is a potential to contribute or cause regional and/or
localized exceedances of the federal and/or state ambient air quality standards, such as the NAAQS and
CAAQS. To assist lead agencies in determining the significance of air quality impacts from land
development projects, SCAQMD established quantitative short-term construction-related and long-term
operational impact thresholds (South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds). Table III-1 below
displays these numeric thresholds applicable to construction and operational activities to which the project-
specific air emissions results will be compared.
Table III-1
SCAQMD’s Air Quality Significance Thresholds
(Pounds/Day)
Emission Source CO VOC NOx SOx PM10 PM2.5
Construction or
Operation
550 75 100 150 150
55
Source: Air Quality Analysis Guidance Handbook and SCAQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds, April 2019
The AQIA used the project parameters (land uses and facilities) to calculate the criteria air pollutants
expected to be generated from the project. The AQIA findings included in Table III-2 below demonstrate
that the unmitigated construction related emissions resulting from site preparation, grading,
utilities/building construction, paving, and architectural coating of the project would not exceed the
applicable SCAQMD regional thresholds of significance for any criteria pollutants, including PM10 and
Ozone precursors. No further mitigation is necessary to lower the emission levels. Thus, a less than
significant impact would occur for project-related construction-source emissions in relation to the
applicable South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds.
Table III-2
Short Term Air Pollutant Emissions
Associated With Construction of the Proposed Project (Unmitigated)
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(Pounds/Day)
ROG/VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5
Peak Emissions
Resulting from
Site Preparation,
Grading, Building
Construction, Paving,
and Architectural Coating
15.79
80.09
33.45
0.16
8.86
4.54
SCAQMD Threshold 75 100 550 150 150 55
Threshold Exceeded No No No No No No
Moreover, the AQIA also calculated the long-term operational air pollutant emissions that would occur
during the life of the project. These operations include area, energy and mobile sources. As shown in Table
III-3 below, the project-related emissions of criteria pollutants are also not expected to exceed any of the
SCAQMD South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds for operational impacts.
Table III-3
Long Term Operational Air Pollutant Emissions
Associated With Development of the Project (Unmitigated)
(Pounds/Day)
Emission Source ROG/VOC NOx CO SO2 PM10 PM2.5
Peak Area Sources,
Energy Use, Mobile
Sources
0.66
0.20
0.19
0.00
0.02
0.02
SCAQMD Threshold 75 100 550 150 150 55
Threshold Exceeded No No No No No No
The criteria for determining consistency with the AQMP are defined in Chapter 12, Section 12.2 and Section
12.3 of the SCAQMD’s CEQA Air Quality Handbook (1993), as summarized below:
Consistency Criterion No. 1: The proposed project will not result in an increase in the frequency or severity
of existing air quality violations or cause or contribute to new violations, or delay the timely attainment of
air quality standards or the interim emissions reductions specified in the AQMP.
The violations that Consistency Criterion No. 1 refers to are the CAAQS and NAAQS. CAAQS and
NAAQS violations would occur if localized significance thresholds (LSTs) or regional significance
thresholds were exceeded. As demonstrated in Tables III-2 and III-3, the project would not exceed the
applicable regional significance thresholds for construction activity for emissions of any criteria air
pollutant, including PM10 and ozone precursors, and therefore would not conflict with the AQMP
according to this criterion. The project operational-source air pollutant emissions would also not exceed
applicable thresholds or result in or cause violations of the CAAQS and NAAQS.
Consistency Criterion No. 2: The project will not exceed the assumptions in the AQMP based on the years
of project build-out phase.
The 2016 AQMP demonstrates that the applicable ambient air quality standards can be achieved within the
timeframes required under federal law and any extensions for attainment can be processed accordingly,
such as the case of Ozone. As concluded in the AQIA, the project land uses are generally consistent with
the land uses allowed under the City land use designations for the project site. As such, the project would
be consistent with the growth projections and with the air quality plan.
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In summary, the project is not expected to result in emission levels, growth or land use changes that would
interfere with the City or region’s ability to comply with the most current air quality plans including the
2016 AQMP, CVSIP for PM10, and the ozone level attainment efforts. Moreover, the project’s short-term
construction and long-term operational emissions would not exceed the established regional thresholds for
criteria air pollutant emissions. Pertaining to the obstruction of an applicable air quality plan, less than
significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. The Coachella Valley portion of the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB) was
formerly classified as “Severe-15” nonattainment for the 1997 8-hour ozone national ambient air quality
standard with an attainment deadline of June 15, 2019. Over the past 15 years, the air quality in the
Coachella Valley has steadily improved because of the implementation of emission control measures by
SCAQMD and California Air Resources Board (CARB). However, based on recent data for higher levels
of ozone experienced in 2017 and 2018, it was determined that the Coachella Valley region could not
practically attain the said standard by the established deadline. As a result, SCAQMD requested a
reclassification that would extend the attainment deadline to June of 2024. SCAQMD has prepared
additional documentation and will be implementing additional measures to comply with the June 2024
deadline. Current and planned regulations on mobile and stationary sources are expected to contribute to
improvements to ozone air quality in the Coachella Valley and lead to attainment of the standard.
As demonstrated in tables III-2 and III-3, project-related short-term construction and long-term operational
emissions are not expected to exceed the reginal thresholds of significance established by SCAQMD for
ozone precursors, such as NOx and ROG/VOC. By complying with the adopted thresholds, the proposed
development is also complying with the overall attainment strategies reflected in the currently adopted 2016
AQMP.
Furthermore, the Coachella Valley is currently designated as a serious nonattainment area for PM10
(particulate matter with an aerodynamic diameter of 10 microns or less). The CVSIP is in place with an
attainment strategy for meeting the PM10 standard. Some of the existing measures include the requirement
of detailed dust control plans from builders that specify the use of more aggressive and frequent watering,
soil stabilization, wind screens, and phased development to minimize fugitive dust.
Per Chapter 6.16 (Fugitive Dust Control) of the La Quinta Municipal Code, a Fugitive Dust Control Plan
must be prepared and approved prior to any earth-moving operations. Implementation of the Fugitive Dust
Control Plan is required to occur under the supervision of an individual with training on Dust Control in
the Coachella Valley. The plan will include methods to prevent sediment track-out onto public roads,
prevent visible dust emissions from exceeding a 20-percent opacity, and prevent visible dust emissions
from extending more than 100 feet (vertically or horizontally from the origin of a source) or crossing any
property line. The most widely used measures include proper construction phasing, proper
maintenance/cleaning of construction equipment, soil stabilization, installation of track-out prevention
devices, and wind fencing. As shown in Tables III-2 and III-3, project-related short-term construction and
long-term operational emissions are not expected to exceed the reginal thresholds of significance
established by SCAQMD for PM10.
Since project-related emissions would be consistent with the AQMP. CVSIP, and all SCAQMD Air Quality
Significance Thresholds, long-term operational air quality impacts associated with the project would not be
considered cumulatively considerable. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. A sensitive receptor is a person in the population who is particularly
susceptible (i.e. more susceptible than the population at large) to health effects due to exposure to an air
contaminant. Sensitive receptors and the facilities that house them are of particular concern if they are
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located in close proximity to localized sources of carbon monoxide, toxic air contaminants, or odors.
Residences, long-term health care facilities, schools, rehabilitation centers, playgrounds, convalescent
centers, childcare centers, retirement homes, and athletic facilities are generally considered sensitive
receptors.
The SCAQMD has developed and published the Final Localized Significance Threshold (LST)
Methodology to help identify potential impacts that could contribute or cause localized exceedances of the
federal and/or state ambient air quality standards (NAAQS/CAAQS). LST methodology was developed in
response to environmental justice and health concerns raised by the public regarding exposure of
individuals to criteria pollutants in local communities. The purpose of analyzing LSTs is to determine
whether a project may generate significant adverse localized air quality impacts in relation to the nearest
exposed sensitive receptors, such as those listed above. LSTs represent the maximum emission levels that
comply with the most stringent applicable federal or state ambient air quality standard at the nearest
sensitive receptor, taking into consideration ambient concentrations in each source receptor area (SRA),
project, size, and distance to the sensitive receptor. Therefore, meeting the lowest allowable emissions
thresholds translates to meeting the most stringent air quality standards for a project locality in consideration
of sensitive receptors. As part of the LST methodology, SCAQMD has divided its jurisdiction into 37
source receptor areas (SRAs) which can be used to determine whether a project may generate significant
adverse localized air quality impacts. The proposed development is located in SRA 30, which covers the
Coachella Valley and City of La Quinta. LSTs only apply to certain criteria pollutants: carbon dioxide (CO),
oxides of nitrogen (NOx) particulate matter equal to or less than 10 microns in diameter (PM10), and
particulate matter equal to or less than 2.5 microns in diameter (PM2.5).
The AQIA involved an LST analysis taking into account that the nearest sensitive receptor is a residential
community located approximately 452 feet/138 meters northeast of the project site. Distance wise, the LST
tables use 100 and 200 meters as reference points. Consistent with the SCAQMD’s LST Methodology, a
100-meter receptor distance is utilized in this analysis and provide for a conservative i.e. “health protective”
standard of care. Since the total acreage disturbed is less than five acres per day for site preparation and
grading activities, the SCAQMD’s screening look-up tables are utilized in determining impacts.
Per the SCAQMD LST methodology, LST analysis for the operational phase of the project would not be
applicable because the project would not include stationary emission sources or activities involving long
periods of queuing and idling at the site, such as those associated with warehouse or transfer facilities. As
a result, no long-term localized significance threshold analysis is needed.
Table III-4
Localized Significance Thresholds (LSTs) Associated with Projected
Construction (In Pounds/Day)
Emission Source NO CO PM10 PM2.5
Site Preparation Emissions 21.87 13.29 1.82 1.01
SCAQMD LST Threshold for SRA 30 301 3,475 45 12
LST Threshold Exceeded? No No No No
Grading Emissions 27.38 14.83 4.32 2.73
SCAQMD LST Threshold for SRA 30 301 3,475 45 12
LST Threshold Exceeded? No No No No
The results provided in Table III-4 resulting from the Localized Significance Thresholds methodology by
SCAQMD demonstrate that the construction-related emission levels would occur well below the
established thresholds, taking into account the source receptor area and nearest sensitive receptor location
to the project. Therefore, the project would not result in emissions capable of exposing sensitive receptors
to substantial pollutant concentrations. Moreover, the proposed project would not situate occupants and
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visitors of the proposed parish center and administrative facilities in a location known to be exposed to
existing or planned sources of substantial emissions. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
d) No Impact. As previously analyzed and disclosed, project implementation would not result in emissions
that would exceed the South Coast AQMD Air Quality Significance Thresholds or LSTs. Moreover, the
project emissions would not exceed the LSTs applicable to the project setting in relation to the nearby
residences. The proposed parish hall, administration facilities, and parking lot expansion within the existing
church property will not involve the types of facilities or operations commonly known to generate odors,
such as wastewater treatment plants, sanitary landfills, composting/green waste facilities, recycling
facilities, petroleum refineries, chemical manufacturing plants, painting/coating operations, rendering
plants, or food packaging facilities. Therefore, the project is not expected to result in odor or other emissions
adversely affecting nearby neighbors or a substantial number of people. No impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES -- Would the
project:
Potentially
Significan
t Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or
through habitat modifications, on any species
identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status
species in local or regional plans, policies, or
regulations, or by the California Department of Fish
and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service?
b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community identified
in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or
by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or
US Fish and Wildlife Service?
c) Have a substantial adverse effect on state or
federally protected wetlands (including, but not
limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through
direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or
other means?
d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any
native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or
with established native resident or migratory wildlife
corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery
sites?
e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation
Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat
conservation plan?
Sources: General and Focused Biological Resources Assessment, James W. Cornett Ecological Consultants, June 2020; La
Quinta General Plan, Biological Resources, 2013.
Setting:
In June 2020, James W. Cornett, Ecological Consultants conducted a project-specific General and Focused
Biological Resources Assessment. The assessment area covered the 5-acres of vacant and undeveloped land. There
is an existing church along the northern boundary. Previously graded flatlands are located along the southern
boundary and a church parking lot forms the eastern boundary. The biological survey and analysis were performed
to ascertain the impacts of proposed development on potential biological resources of the project site and immediate
vicinity, as mandated by CEQA and required by the City of La Quinta.
Survey methodology included literature review to determine the biological resources that might exist within the
general area and to determine the possible occurrence of special status species. The review included records,
collections, websites and or staff of the University of Riverside of California at Riverside Herbarium, and other
research centers. The review included a search in the California Department of Fish and Wildlife Natural Diversity
Database. Field surveys were initiated in May 2020 and conducted on May 20, 21, 22, 26, 27, and 28. Night surveys
were conducted in the evenings of May 21, and 26th. Invertebrate sampling was conducted on the evenings of May
21, 26, 2020. Two Bioquip Light Traps were used for attracting and live capturing flying insects and some terrestrial
anthropods.
Surveys were conducted by walking north/south transects at 10-yard intervals through the project site. The survey
pattern used has been approved by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service for determining the presence or absence of the
burrowing owl and desert tortoise and represents an intensive survey effort that resulted in no officially listed or
federally protected species being overlooked. Offsite surveys were only conducted to the west, though extremely
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steep terrain made it impossible to traverse straight-line transects more than 25-yards beyond project site
boundaries. Offsite transects were walked up to 150 yards to the south of the project site. The existing church
structures lie to the north of the project site and a paved parking lot and Washington Street, an extremely busy
thoroughfare, lie to the immediate east.
The elevation of the project site is approximately 75 feet above sea level. The only topographic relief consists of
sand deposits that rise up against a spur of the Santa Rosa Mountains to the immediate west. The rocky spur touches
the extreme northwest corner of the site. Soil characteristics are uniform over the entire site. Soil is composed of
wind-blown alluvium created by historic and persistent air movements from the northwest. Residential and
commercial developments to the east and north have resulted in sand stabilization on the site.
The northern two thirds of the site have been graded with soil stabilization for an informal parking area. Remnants
of the Sonoran creosote bush scrub community occurred along the western edge of the site. The creosote bush was
the dominant perennial followed by bugseed, Emory’s Dalea and croton. Many native and exotic weed species have
germinated over the site. The species include Sahara mustard, tumbleweed, bugseed and Schismus grass. These
species are found throughout the Colorado Desert of southeastern California whenever natural vegetation has been
damaged or removed.
a) No Impact. The Inventory of Rare and Endangered Vascular Plants of California, published by the
California Native Plant Society, lists a total of four plant species that could conceivably occur on or near
the project site. They are the glandular ditaxis, ribbed cryptantha flat-seeded spurge, and Coachella Valley
milk vetch. The glandular ditaxis is a very rare perennial herb that blooms from December through March.
It is restricted to sandy environments in the Sonoran Desert and has been found in the Coachella Valley at
elevations like those found on the site. The glandular ditaxis was not detected during the plant survey and
therefore presumed absent from the site. This species is not listed as rare, threatened, or endangered by
either the state or federal governments nor is it proposed to be listed at this time.
The ribbed crypthantha is an uncommon ephemeral known to occur on sandy soils in the Coachella Valley.
The project site can be considered suitable habitat for this species. Since the entire site has been graded in
the past the ribbed crypthantha was not detected. The ribbed cryptantha is not listed as rare, threatened, or
endangered by either the state or federal governments nor is it proposed to be listed at this time.
The flat seed spurge is an extremely rare ephemeral known to occur on sandy soils in the Sonoran Desert.
There has been at least one specimen found in the Coachella Valley. The species was not detected in part
due to most of the survey area being graded in the past. The flat-seeded spurge is not listed as rare,
threatened, or endangered by either the state or federal governments nor is it proposed to be listed at this
time.
The Coachella Valley milk-vetch is an uncommon, spring-blooming ephemeral herb that is known to occur
on sand soils in the Coachella Valley. No evidence of this species was found within project site boundaries.
The milk-vetch is listed as endangered by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife service. Impacts to the milk-vetch are
fully mitigated by the CVMSHCP through the payment of the Plan mitigation fees. No further action is
necessary with regard to this species.
The site was surveyed for special status and sensitive species. Three insect species known to occur in the
Coachella Valley have been placed on the California Department of Fish & Wildlife Special Animals list.
They are the Coachella giant sand treader cricket, Coachella Valley Jerusalem cricket, and Coachella Valley
grasshopper. None of these three species were found during the surveys and none have any official status
with government agencies. Both the Coachella giant sand treader cricket and Jerusalem cricket are covered
species under the CVMSHCP.
Per the Project-specific Biological Report, no amphibian species were found during the surveys and none
are expected. The officially threatened Coachella Valley fringe-toed lizard was not observed or detected.
A concerted effort was made to locate any signs of the officially listed desert tortoise. The Biological Report
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finds that this species does not occur within the Project site and immediate vicinity and no additional
surveys for this species are recommended. The field survey resulted in no observations or evidence of the
flat-tailed horned lizard. The site’s habitat is considered unsuitable for this species due to past grading.
Impacts to the horned lizard are fully mitigated under the Plan.
Two functionally non-covered and sensitive avian species were considered to be possible occupants of the
Project site and vicinity, the burrowing owl and loggerhead shrike. An intensive field survey for the
burrowing owl was undertaken following protocols established by the state and federal governments. No
observations of the owl were recorded, and no evidence of its presence was found. The habitat of the Project
site was found to be unsuitable for the owl because of past grading, frequent human presence, and intense
traffic noise on Washington Street. The biological report finds the site not important for other migratory
birds due to a lack of shelter and food resources.
The loggerhead shrike, a state Species of Concern, was not observed or detected on or near the project site.
The site is also considered unsuitable habitat for this species because of past grading, frequent human
presence, and intense traffic noise on Washington Street.
Recorded mammals included the Palm Springs Ground squirrel, desert cottontail and coyote. No
observations of the Palm Springs pocket mouse, a covered species was found. The Palm Springs ground
squirrel is the only mammalian covered species discovered within the project boundaries and was detected
five times (four burrows and one observation). It currently is not a listed species and has a much broader
range than was previously thought. It is, therefore, unlikely that it will be listed in the foreseeable future. It
is a covered species under the CVMSHCP and impacts to the squirrel are fully mitigated by the payment
the Plan fee.
With the spur of the Santa Rosa Mountains immediately west of the Project site, an intensive effort was
made to find evidence of bighorn sheep on or near the site. No evidence or observations of bighorn were
recorded. The peninsular bighorn sheep is a subspecies of bighorn restricted to the desert slopes of the
Peninsular Ranges of Southern California and Baja California. The population found in the United States
is considered Endangered by the federal government and Threatened by the state government. Historical
records indicate bighorn were occasionally present in the spur of the Santa Rosa Mountains immediately
west of the Project site. The Project does not impinge upon the spur and bighorn are a covered species under
the MSHCP and no current evidence of sheep presence was found during the field survey, no special
mitigation is necessary or recommended for bighorn sheep.
Moreover, the Project’s proximity to a high-volume roadway and surrounding development, as a result, it
is nearly an ecological island with little significant biological interaction with natural habitats elsewhere in
the Coachella Valley. No impacts to sensitive or special status species are expected as a result of project
implementation.
b) No Impact. Per the project-specific biological report, the property does not contain nor is it adjacent to any
riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and
regulations or by the CDFW or USFWS. The northeastern two-thirds of the site has been graded with soil
stabilization for an informal parking area. As a result, the project site does not provide conditions that
support natural vegetation communities or habitats including the presence of plant or animal species given
special status by government agencies. The project shall adhere to all policies and protocols determined by
the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP), in which the project site
lies. The CVMSHCP outlines policies for conservation habitats and natural communities and is
implemented by the City of La Quinta. Moreover, there are no known significant biological resources on
the project site and the proposed project would not have a substantial adverse impact on candidate, sensitive
or special status species. No impacts are expected.
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c) No Impact. The project site does not contain federally protected wetlands, marshes or other natural
drainage features. No blue-line stream corridors (streams or dry washes) are shown on U.S. Geological
Survey maps for the project site and there are no botanical indicators of such corridors. As a result,
implementation of the proposed project would not result in the direct removal, filling or other hydrological
interruption to any of these resources. No impacts are expected.
d) No Impact. Per the project-specific biological report, no migratory wildlife corridors or native wildlife
nursery sites are found on the project or adjacent properties. During the biological field survey, smoothing
of surfaces to yield tracks was performed on each site visit to determine if important wildlife corridors
existed on site. Tracks of roadrunners and coyotes were recorded, however; no discernable and routinely
used corridors were found and none are expected. Therefore, no impacts are anticipated.
e) No Impact. The project site is vacant undeveloped land that has been partially graded and does not contain
any protected biological resources. Project implementation would not result in demolition or tree removal.
The project is consistent with the Goals and Policies set forth in the City of La Quinta Biological Resources
chapter (Chapter III) of the General Plan. The project will comply with CVMSHCP through the payment
of mitigation fees. There are no other unique local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources
that would cause a conflict nor does the site support high value biological resources that could be affected.
No impacts are expected.
f) Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation. The project lies within the boundary of the Coachella
Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) which outlines policies for conservation
habitats and natural communities and is implemented by the City of La Quinta. The project site is not
located within a Conservation Area under the CVMSHCP. However, the site’s western boundary abuts the
Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area. The project, therefore, is subject to the
CVMSHCP requirements regarding lands adjoining Conservation Areas. The proposed project will comply
with all required plan provisions and pay the required new development mitigation fee in conformance with
the CVMSHCP and City Ordinance. Additionally, the proposed project will not conflict with any local
policies or ordinances protecting biological resources. Less than significant impacts are expected following
the recommended mitigation measure listed below.
Mitigation:
BIO-1: The project developer shall adhere to the CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency Guidelines for projects
adjacent to Conservation Areas. The following Land Use Adjacency Guidelines shall be considered by the
Permittees in their review of individual public and private Development projects adjacent to or within the
Conservation Areas to minimize edge effects and shall be implemented where applicable.
4.5.1 Drainage
Proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate plans to ensure that
the quantity and quality of runoff discharged to the adjacent Conservation Area is not altered in an
adverse way when compared with existing conditions. Stormwater systems shall be designed to prevent
the release of toxins, chemicals, petroleum products, exotic plant materials or other elements that might
degrade or harm biological resources or ecosystem processes within the adjacent Conservation Area.
4.5.2 Toxics
Land uses proposed adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that use chemicals or generate
bioproducts such as manure that are potentially toxic or may adversely affect wildlife and plant species,
Habitat, or water quality shall incorporate measures to ensure that application of such chemicals does
not result in any discharge to the adjacent Conservation Area.
4.5.3 Lighting
For proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area, lighting shall be shielded and
directed toward the developed area. Landscape shielding or other appropriate methods shall be
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incorporated in project designs to minimize the effects of lighting adjacent to or within the adjacent
Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual.
4.5.4 Noise
Proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that generates noise in excess of 75
dBA hourly shall incorporate setbacks, berms, or walls, as appropriate, to minimize the effects of noise
on the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the
Implementation Manual.
4.5.5 Invasives
Invasive, non-native plant species shall not be incorporated in the landscape for land uses adjacent to
or within a Conservation Area. Landscape treatments within or adjacent to a Conservation Area shall
incorporate native plant materials to the maximum extent Feasible; recommended native species are
listed in Table 4-112 of the CVMSHCP. The plants listed in Table 4-113 in the CVMSHCP shall not
be used within or adjacent to a Conservation Area. This list may be amended from time to time through
a Minor Amendment with Wildlife Agency Concurrence.
BIO-2: The Plan prohibits the planting of oleanders on sites adjacent to Conservation Areas. Existing
oleanders shall be removed.
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5. CULTURAL RESOURCES -- Would the
project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource pursuant to
§15064.5?
b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource
pursuant to § 15064.5?
c) Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of dedicated cemeteries?
Sources: Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery Report, CRM Tech.
Setting:
The City of La Quinta has a rich history which includes Ancient Lake Cahuilla. Ancient Lake Cahuilla is a large
intermittent freshwater lake created by the Colorado River. Its shorelines continually changed as the lake was filled
and emptied by the river, and when it was full it attracted human settlement with its plentiful resources. Settlement
along the lakeshore in the Coachella Valley was particularly intensive, with evidence of large-scale, multi-seasonal
occupation.
The first known human inhabitants of the Coachella Valley included the Cahuilla Indians, whose occupancy spread
from the Banning Pass to the Salton Sea. Anthropologists divided the Cahuilla into three groups based on their
geographic setting: (1) the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio Pass-Palm Springs area; (2) the Mountain Cahuilla
of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains; and (3) the Cahuilla Valley, and the Desert Cahuilla of the eastern
Coachella Valley. The Cahuilla Indians developed a seasonal mobility system, which utilized the lake when it was
full and benefited from the available terrestrial resources once the lake desiccated. They also migrated to higher
elevations to utilize the resources and cooler temperatures.
The City and its Sphere of Influence have a rich and varied history. Many cultural resources, including prehistoric,
historic, and paleontological resources have been catalogued in the area.
The project is located on developed land south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church building in the City of
La Quinta. A project-specific Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery Report was prepared by
CRM Tech (November 2021). The immediate objective of the mitigation program is to recover a representative
sample of archaeological data from the portion of Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415 that would be impacted by the
project, including cremation remains first discovered at Site 33-002198 during an archaeological monitoring
program in an adjacent portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church property in 2010. To accomplish this
objective, CRM Tech completed a systematic resurvey of the site areas, the excavation of 29 data recovery units,
and laboratory analysis of all cultural materials collected from both surface and subsurface contexts.
a,b,c) Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation. Between May 2020 and November 2021, CRM TECH
performed an archaeological mitigation program at Sites 33-002198 (CA-RIV-2198) and 33-008415 (CA-
RIV-6134), two prehistoric (i.e., Native American) sites lying partially within the boundaries of the
proposed St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Project in the City of La Quinta. The project area
consists of approximately five acres of vacant land located to the south of the existing church building.
The mitigation program is a part of the environmental review process for the proposed project, which entails
the construction of two new buildings along with additional parking spaces and driveways. The purpose of
the study is to mitigate potential project impacts on Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415, both of which were
previously found to qualify as “historical resources,” as defined by CEQA, through data recovery.
Per the project-specific Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery report, Site 33-002198,
is the primary focus of the mitigation program. It was originally recorded in 1972 and has been revisited,
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surveyed systematically, and treated with test excavations. Meanwhile, the current project area was covered
in its entirety by at least two standard Phase I cultural resources surveys in 1991 and 1998. A testing
program conducted on 33-002198 in 1991 concluded that it was “unlikely that further research at this site
would contribute substantially to our understanding of the lifeways of the prehistoric people of this area”.
Subsequently, the 1998 survey found the site not to meet CEQA’s definition of a “historical resource”.
Since the 1990s, however, shifting sands have been continuously altering the condition of Site 33-002198,
burying some cultural remains while exposing others. During an archaeological monitoring program in an
adjacent portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church property in 2010, Native American and
archaeological monitors observed a newly exposed concentration of calcined bone fragments at the location
of 33-002198, which were then determined by the Riverside County Coroner’s Office to be consistent with
cremated prehistoric human remains. Because of the cultural/spiritual significance of the cremation remains
to the local Native Americans, the site was recommended for the statutory status of a “historical resource”
at that time
The immediate objective of the mitigation program is to recover a representative sample of archaeological
data from the portions of Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415 that would be impacted by the project, including
cremation remains first discovered in 2010 at Site 33-002198 in the adjacent portion of the St. Francis of
Assisi Catholic Church property. To accomplish this objective, CRM TECH completed a systematic
resurvey of the site areas, the excavation of 29 data recovery units, and laboratory analysis of all cultural
materials collected from both surface and subsurface contexts.
In all, 1,578 artifacts were recovered during this study, 1,502 from Site 33-002198 and 76 from Site 33-
008415. The artifact assemblage is consistent with past findings at these sites and include ceramic sherds,
groundstone pieces, lithic debitage, fire-affected rocks, a shell bead, and small fragments of animal bone,
as well as calcined bone fragments associated with the human cremation feature. Most of the items were
recovered from the top 20 centimeters of the soil, and relatively few artifacts were found in the levels below
that depth. This suggests that the sites represent mainly surface and near-surface deposits from the Late
Prehistoric Period and do not appear to have a deeply buried component.
As a result of the archaeological investigations completed during this study, a representative sample of the
cultural deposits from Site 33-002198, in particular the cremated human remains, have been recovered for
the mitigation effort. Most of Site 33-008145 was previously treated with a similar data recovery program
in 2001, and the relatively small number of artifacts recovered from that site during this study do not
substantially alter its archaeological data potential or the previously established status of the site.
After being designated the Most Likely Descendant by the State of California Native American Heritage
Commission (NAHC), Ernest Morreo, an elder from the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, visited
the site and blessed the remains in 2010. The tribe decided that since the cremation remains were not being
impacted at the time, they should be left in place. The proposed St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
Expansion Project, however, will now impact the portion of 33-002198 containing the remains, which was
not included in the previous testing program. As a result, the current mitigation program was developed
and implemented at the site to reduce the project impacts to a level less than significant.
The second site treated during the mitigation program, 33-008415, was identified and recorded during the
1998 survey of the project area. The site was treated with a combined archaeological testing and mitigation
excavation program in 2001. At the completion of that study, it was concluded that the site met CEQA’s
definition of a “historical resource” but the potential impact of future development on the St. Francis of
Assisi Catholic Church property to the component of the site known to be significant had been adequately
mitigated through data recovery. During the current study, additional artifacts were discovered in an area
near 33-008415, effectively expanding the boundary of the site. Therefore, Site 33-008415 was included in
the scope of the mitigation program.
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A third prehistoric archaeological site that once extended into the current project area, 33-008416 (CA-
RIV-6135), was recorded to the east of 33-002198 and 33-008415 during the 1998 survey. That site was
excavated in 1998-1999 but was found not to be a true archaeological site because the artifacts recovered
during the excavation appeared to have been transported to this area with imported soil. As such, 33-008416
was determined not to qualify as a “historical resource” under CEQA provisions, and the small portion of
the site lying within the current project boundaries was subsequently removed during the construction of
the existing parking lot at the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
The archaeological fieldwork for this mitigation program was completed between June 3 and June 9, 2020
with the assistance of Robin Lawson, Tribal monitor for the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
Before beginning excavations, the project area was resurveyed at an intensive level by walking a series of
transects spaced approximately five to ten meters apart and oriented either in the north-south direction or,
on steeper terrain, along the natural contour. The existing site maps generated from the earlier studies were
used to help locate archaeological remains recorded in the past, including the cremation feature discovered
in 2010.
Based on these considerations, CRM TECH concludes that mitigation of potential project impacts on Sites
33-002198 and 33-008415 has been partially accomplished through the research procedures carried out
during this study. The mitigation effort will be completed upon the proper repatriation of the cremation
remains according to the wishes of the Most Likely Descendent and the elders representing the Torres
Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. Despite the extensive archaeological research to date, the project area
continues to have a demonstrated sensitivity for buried prehistoric remains, especially since the shifting
sands have revealed previously unknown portions of the site in the past. In addition to locating the cremation
feature that was discovered during the 2010 cultural monitoring program, the resurvey found groundstone,
ceramics, and faunal remains on the surface that had been revealed by blown and shifting sands.
Information recovered from Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415 indicates that they were used during the Late
Prehistoric Period. It is well known to archaeologists and ethnographers that Native people would spread
out across the surrounding countryside from their villages to collect items for food, shelter, clothing,
adornment, and social activities. The data from these two sites do not provide any new, important
information regarding the people that used the area or their culture. However, the presence of cremation
remains that were encountered elevate its interpretation and cultural/spiritual significance, especially to the
nearby Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
Since both Site 33-002198 and Site 33-008415 were previously determined to meet CEQA’s definition of
“historical resources,” the potential impact of the proposed St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Project on these sites would constitute “a significant effect on the environment,” and the current study was
designed and implemented to mitigate the impact through archaeological data recovery in compliance with
that provision.
As a result of the archaeological field procedures and laboratory analysis completed during this study, a
representative sample of the cultural deposits from Site 33-002198, in particular the cremated human
remains, have been recovered for the mitigation effort. Most of Site 33-008145 was previously treated with
a similar data recovery program in 2001, and the relatively small number of artifacts recovered from that
site during this study do not substantially alter its archaeological data potential or the previously established
status of the site.
Based on these considerations, CRM TECH concludes that mitigation of potential project impacts on Sites
33-002198 and 33-008415 has been partially accomplished through this study. The mitigation effort will
be completed upon the proper repatriation of the cremation remains according to the wishes of the Most
Likely Descendent and the elders representing the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
Despite the extensive archaeological research to date, however, the cultural materials recovered from the
site, the presence of other prehistoric sites in the area, and the tendency of shifting sands to reveal previously
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unknown archaeological deposits suggest the possibility that more prehistoric cultural remains may be
present in subsurface deposits in the vicinity, possibly within project boundaries. Therefore, CRM TECH
recommends that that all grubbing, grading, trenching, excavations, and/or other earth-moving operations
associated with the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion Project be monitored by a qualified
archaeologist and a Native American monitor of Cahuilla heritage. Therefore, less than significant impacts
are expected following the recommended mitigation measure as described subsequently.
Mitigation:
CUL-1: The presence of a qualified archaeologist shall be required during all project related ground
disturbing activities, including clearing and grubbing. In the event that potentially significant archaeological
materials are discovered, all work must be halted in the vicinity of the archaeological discovery until the
archaeologist can assess the significance of the find, and its potential eligibility for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources (CRHC).
CUL-2: The presence of an approved Native American Monitor of Cahuilla heritage is required during any
ground disturbing activities. Should buried cultural deposits be encountered, the monitor may request that
destructive construction halt in the vicinity of the deposits, and the monitor shall notify a qualified
archaeologist (Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and Guidelines), within 24 hours, to investigate.
Additional consultation with the tribes may be required.
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6. ENERGY -- Would the project: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Result in potentially significant environmental
impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?
b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan
for renewable energy or energy efficiency?
Sources: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update; La Quinta Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan, 2012; Saint Francis of Assisi
Greenhouse Gas Analysis, Urban Crossroads, 2020.
Setting:
Energy sources are made available to the Coachella Valley by private and public agencies. Major energy providers
include Southern California Edison (SCE), Imperial Irrigation District (IID), and the Southern California Gas
Company (The Gas Company or SoCalGas). Electricity and natural gas are the primary sources of energy in the
City of La Quinta and are provided by IID and The Gas Company, respectively. The project property lies within
IID’s and The Gas Company’s service areas. IID delivers electricity throughout the City at 92 or 161 kilovolts and
decreased 12 kilovolts for distribution to its customers. Natural gas is the primary source of energy used in the City
for space and water heating, as well as cooking. The Gas Company has major supply lines in Washington Street
and Highway 111.
There are more than 27 million registered vehicles in California, and those vehicles consumed an estimated 18.5
billion gallons of petroleum and diesel in 2014, according to the California Energy Commission (CEC). Gasoline
and other vehicle fuels are commercially provided commodities and would be available to the project via
commercial outlets. According to the CEC, transportation accounts for nearly 37 percent of California’s total energy
consumption. Petroleum-based fuels account for approximately 92 percent of California’s transportation energy
sources.
Technological advances, market trends, consumer behavior, and government policies could result in significant
changes to fuel consumption by type and total. Various policies, rules, and regulations have been enacted to improve
vehicle fuel efficiency, promote the development and use of alternative fuels, reduce transportation-source air
pollutants and GHG emissions, and reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT), at the federal and State levels.
Technological advances have made use of other energy resources or alternative transportation modes increasingly
feasible, as market forces have driven the price of petroleum products steadily upward.
a) Less than Significant Impact. The project proposes the development of a parish hall, administration
offices, and associated parking spaces on approximately 4.43 acres in the south/southwest portion of the St.
Francis of Assisi Church property. Currently, the project area operates as parking for the Church. The
existing parking lot includes light fixtures to illuminate the parking spaces in the evening. Associated
improvements include pedestrian walkways and sidewalks, and paved driveways.
Energy sources are made available to the City of La Quinta by private and public agencies. Major energy
providers include Imperial Irrigation District (IID) and the Southern California Gas Company (The Gas
Company or SoCalGas). Electricity and natural gas are the primary sources of energy in the City of La
Quinta.
Title 24 of the California Administrative Code sets efficiency standards for new construction, regulating
energy consumed for heating cooling, ventilations, water heating, and lighting. These building efficiency
standards are enforced through the City’s building permit process. The site currently operates as Church
parking.
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The project property is currently served with electricity, which powers the existing light fixtures in the
parking lot. The project site does not consume natural gas resources, due to its current operation as a parking
lot. However, the existing Church sanctuary north of the project site is served with electricity and natural
gas. The project is proposed to connect to the Church’s existing energy sources.
The project is expected to consume energy in the form of electricity, natural gas and petroleum during
project construction and operation. Analysis of the project-related energy consumption was provided the
project-specific Air Quality Analysis Report and Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Analysis Report completed by
Urban Crossroads in June 2020. These reports address both project-related impacts to air quality and GHGs,
as well as project-related energy consumption. The consumption of energy may lead to an increased amount
of GHGs emitted, and the decreased quality of air in an area; therefore, energy was evaluated in the reports
and used in the analysis of this section. CalEEMod v2016.3.2 was utilized in the reports to calculate
construction-source and operational-source criteria pollutant and GHG emissions from direct and indirect
sources and quantify applicable air quality and GHG reductions achieved from mitigation measures. As
determined in the project description, the proposed project will be developed in one phase. The GHG
Analysis Report analyzed the project to be developed in one phase, which generates a conservative figure
because it assumes that all of the construction activities will occur at one time instead of over a longer
period of time. Project-related energy consumption, via electricity, natural gas, and petroleum, is discussed
further below.
Electricity
As previously stated, electricity is provided to the City of La Quinta and the project site by IID. IID delivers
electricity throughout the City at 92 or 161 kilovolts and decreased 12 kilovolts for distribution to its
customers. According to the La Quinta General Plan (LQGP) Environmental Impact Report (EIR), buildout
of commercial uses in the General Plan area will result in electrical consumption of approximately
557,504,443.12 kWh/year. The City has committed to reducing its consumption of electricity through a
number of programs listed in the General Plan.
Construction
Temporary electrical power for lighting and electronic equipment, such as computers inside interim
construction trailers, would be provided by IID. Electricity consumed for onsite construction trailers, which
are used by managerial staff during the hours of construction activities, as well as electrically powered hand
tools are expected to use a minimal amount of electricity. However, the electricity used for such activities
would be temporary and negligible. Most energy used during construction would be from petroleum
consumption (discussed further below).
Operation
The project proposes the operation of a parish hall and administration office building on approximately
4.43 acres south of the existing Church sanctuary building. The project would not result in the use of
excessive amounts of fuel or electricity and would not result in the need to develop additional sources of
energy. While energy use at the project would not be excessive, the project would incorporate several
measures directed at minimizing energy use. These measures include applying energy efficient design
building shells and building components, such as windows, roof systems, electrical lighting systems, and
heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems to meet the most current Title 24 Standards which expects
30 percent less energy for non-residential buildings and 53 percent less energy for residential use due to
energy efficiency measures combined with rooftop solar electricity generation. Therefore, reducing the use
of electricity during project operation.
According to the CalEEMod calculations, provided in the Greenhouse Gas Report, the project is expected
to generate the demand for approximately 228,520 kWh of annual electricity use for the Place of Worship
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(i.e., parish hall and offices), and approximately 15,484 kWh of annual electricity use for the parking lot
component, depicted in the table below.
Table VI-1 Operational Electricity Demand
Electricity Use
Land Use kWh/yr
Place of Worship 213,036
Parking Lot 15,484
Total 228,520
As previously stated, the LQGP EIR predicts that buildout of residential and commercial uses in the General
Plan area, including the proposed project site, will result in electrical consumption of 1,088,371,637.12
kWh per year, where residential uses would consume 530,867,194 kWh/yr and commercial uses would
consume 557,504,443.12 kWh/yr. The proposed project is anticipated to consume approximately 228,520
kWh/yr, which is approximately 0.21 percent of the City’s residential and commercial electrical
consumption at total buildout.
The IID planning area used approximately 1,248.4 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity in the commercial
sector and 1,693.5 GWh of electricity in the residential sector, for a total of 2,941.9 GWh in 2019. IID
estimates that electricity consumption within IID’s planning area will be approximately 4,641,267 MWh
annually by 2031. Based on the project’s estimated new annual electrical consumption of 228,520 kWh
(which is equivalent to 228.5 MWh), the project would account for approximately 0.005 percent of IID’s
demand in 2031. The project would result in the long-term consumption of electricity, however, the increase
in demand for the resource would not be substantial.
Natural Gas
The Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas or the Gas Company) provides natural gas to the City
of La Quinta. Natural gas is the primary source of energy used in the City for space and water heating, as
well as cooking. The Gas Company has major supply lines in Washington Street and Highway 111.
According to the LQGP EIR, at City build-out, residential units will use approximately 919,426,079 cubic
feet of natural gas per year (cf/yr) and commercial uses will consume approximately 512,618,978.28
cf/year. SoCalGas has developed a wide range of energy management, conservation and equipment retrofit
programs for its consumer base. Assistance in facilities planning and analysis is also provided by SoCalGas
to maximize energy efficiency and cost-effective equipment purchases and operations.
Construction
Natural gas is not anticipated to be required during construction of the project. Fuels used for construction
would primarily consist of diesel and gasoline, which are discussed under the following petroleum
subsection. Any minor amounts of natural gas that may be consumed because of project construction would
be temporary and negligible and would not have an adverse effect.
Operation
The consumption of natural gas typically is consumed during building heating, water heating and cooking,
which will occur during project operation. The project’s expected natural gas consumption was calculated
in Urban Crossroad’s GHG Report using the CalEEMod default values. Based on the CalEEMod
calculations, the project is estimated to consume approximately 606,336 thousand British thermal units
(kBTU) of natural gas annually during operation of the place of worship. The parking lot use would not
consume natural gas. This is displayed int Table VI-2, Operational Natural Gas Demand, below.
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Table VI-2 Operational Natural Gas Demand
Natural Gas Use
Land Use kBTU/yr
Place of Worship 606,336
Parking Lot 0
Total 606,336
As previously stated, at General Plan build-out, residential units will use approximately 919,426,079 cubic
feet of natural gas per year (cf/yr). For commercial uses, consumption will be approximately
512,618,978.28 cf/yr. At buildout, the City is expected to consume approximately 1,432,045,057.28 cf/yr
in the residential and commercial sectors. This number is equivalent to 1,485,030,724.4 kBTU. According
to Urban Crossroad’s GHG Analysis, the project is anticipated to consume approximately 606,336
kBTU/yr, which is approximately 0.42 percent of the City’s natural gas consumption at buildout of the City.
Based on the 2018 California Gas Report, the California Energy and Electric Utilities estimates natural gas
consumption within SoCalGas’s planning area will be approximately 2,310 million cf per day in 2030. The
project would consume approximately 0.00007 percent of the 2031 forecasted consumption in SoCalGas’s
planning area.
As such, the project would result in a long-term increase in demand for natural gas. However, the project
would be designed to comply with Title 24, Part 6 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR). Natural
gas consumption would be appropriate and not place a significant burden on SoCal Gas services.
Petroleum
Petroleum is the largest U.S. energy source according to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA).
Petroleum products are used to fuel vehicles and produce electricity. U.S. Petroleum consumption in 2017
was primarily used by the transportation sector (71 percent). The industrial sector accounted for 24 percent
petroleum consumption, the residential sector consumed 3 percent, commercial consumed 2 percent, and
finally, electric power consumed 1 percent. California is the largest consumer of both jet fuel and motor
gasoline amount the 50 states and accounted for 17 percent of the nation’s jet fuel consumption and 11
percent of motor gasoline consumption in 2019.
According to CEC, transportation accounts for nearly 37 percent of California’s total energy consumption.
Petroleum-based fuels account for approximately 92 percent of California’s transportation energy sources.
Technological advances, market trends, consumer behavior, and government policies could result in
significant changes to fuel consumption by type and in total. Various policies, rules and regulations have
been enacted to improve vehicle fuel efficiency, promote the development and use of alternative fuels,
reduce transportation-source air pollutants and GHG emissions, and reduce vehicle miles traveled (VMT),
at the federal and State levels. Technological advances have made use of other energy resources or
alternative transportation modes increasingly feasible, as market forces have driven the price of petroleum
products steadily upward.
Construction
Petroleum would be consumed throughout construction of the project. Fuel consumed by construction
equipment would be the primarily energy resource expended over the course of construction, while VMT
associated with the transportation of construction materials and construction worker commutes would also
result in petroleum consumption. Heavy-duty equipment used for project construction would rely on diesel
fuel, as would haul trucks involved in off-hauling materials from excavation. Construction workers are
expected to travel to and from the project site in gasoline-powered passenger vehicles. There are no unusual
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project characteristics or construction processes that would require the use of equipment that would be more
energy intensive that is used for comparable activities or use of equipment that would not conform to current
emission standards (and related fuel efficiencies).
Heavy-duty construction equipment of various types would be used during each phase of construction.
CalEEMod was used to estimate construction equipment usage. In the analysis of the project the mitigated
construction figures were used, based on the assumption that the project will implement applicable
mitigation measures. Fuel consumption from construction equipment was estimated by converting the total
CO2 emissions from each construction phase to gallons using the conversion factors shown in the following
tables.
Table VI-3, Construction Worker Gasoline Demand, illustrates the demand of gasoline fuel for construction
worker trips to and from the site during each construction phase, and phase of development. Construction
worker gasoline demand during each phase of development equals a total of 3,323.6 gallons of gasoline
fuel.
Table VI-3 Construction Worker Gasoline Demand
Phase Days Trips Miles VMT KgCO2e Kg/CO2/Gallon Gallons
Site Preparation 3 8 11 264 80.5 8.89* 9.1
Grading 20 10 11 2,200 670.4 8.89 75.4
Building Const. 220 38 11 91,960 28,023.7 8.89 3,152.3
Paving 10 15 11 1,650 502.8 8.89 56.6
Arch. Coating 10 8 11 880 268.2 8.89 30.2
Total 3,323.6
*https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gases-equivalencies-calculator-calculations-and-references
https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator
Table VI-4, Construction Vendor Diesel Demand (below), illustrates the demand of diesel fuel for
construction vendor trips to and from the site. These trips are associated with the delivery of construction
materials during the construction phase. Construction vendor demand equals a total of 3,346.9 gallons of
diesel fuel.
Table VI-4 Construction Vendor Diesel Demand
Phase Days Trips Miles VMT KgCO2e Kg/CO2/Gallon Gallons
Site Preparation 3 0 0 0 0 10.18* 0
Grading 20 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Building Const. 220 38 5.40 4,149,144 34,071.9 10.18 3,346.9
Paving 10 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Arch. Coating 10 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Total 3,346.9
*https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gases-equivalencies-calculator-calculations-and-references
https://www.epa.gov/energy/greenhouse-gas-equivalencies-calculator
Table VI-5, Construction Equipment Diesel Demand, displays the demand of diesel fuel for construction
vehicles on-site during the various construction phases. Construction equipment diesel demands equals a
total of 29,481.9 gallons of diesel fuel.
Table VI-5, Construction Equipment Diesel Demand
Phase Days Equipment
Units KgCO2e Kg/CO2/Gallon Gallons
Site Preparation 3 4 3,668.8 10.18 360.4
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Grading 20 6 23,766.3 10.18 2,334.6
Building Const. 220 9 263,597.8 10.18 25,893.7
Paving 10 6 7,813.8 10.18 767.6
Arch. Coating 10 1 1,278.8 10.18 125.6
Total 29,481.9
Table VI-6, Construction Hauling Diesel Demand, displays the demand of diesel fuel for the hauling of
materials based on the CalEEMod calculations provided in the GHG Analysis. Hauling is to occur during
project grading. Construction hauling diesel demands equals a total of 9,938.8 gallons of diesel fuel.
Table VI-6 Construction Hauling Diesel Demand
Phase Days Trips Miles VMT KgCO2e Kg/CO2/Gallon Gallons
Site Preparation 3 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Grading 20 2,816 20 1,126,400 101,177.2 10.18 9,938.8
Building Const. 220 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Paving 10 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Arch. Coating 10 0 0 0 0 10.18 0
Total 9,938.8
Overall, the project is estimated to consume approximately 3,323.6 gallons of gasoline and 42,767.6 gallons
of diesel fuel during the project’s construction phases. In total, the project will consume approximately
46,091.2 gallons of petroleum. Petroleum use is necessary to operate construction equipment. The US EPA
applied a Tier 3 program in order to reduce the impacts of motor vehicles on air quality and public health.
The vehicle emissions standards will reduce both tailpipe and evaporative emissions from passenger cars,
light-duty trucks, medium duty passenger vehicles, and some heavy-duty vehicles. The construction
equipment will utilize Tier 3 engines or higher, therefore would be newer off-road equipment units.
The energy used during the construction of the project would be limited to the development of the project
and would not require long-term petroleum use. Additionally, there are no unusual project characteristics
or construction processes that would require the use of equipment that would be more energy intensive that
is used for comparable activities or use of equipment that would not conform to current emissions standards
(and related fuel efficiencies). Thus, project construction would not consume petroleum in a wasteful or
inefficient manner.
Operation
As previously mentioned, the project proposes a parish hall and administration office building for use of
the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church facility. With the addition of new enclosed meeting spaces and
offices, existing staff and activities will transfer from outside communal areas to the new and improved
facilities. Paved parking surfaces will replace the existing unpaved parking lot. By providing paved parking
and updated administrative and meeting spaces, the existing congregation will be better served. Operations
will not change, and operating hours are anticipated to remain the same. Classrooms and administrative
functions will be moved from outdated facilities to new improved spaces. Seating capacity and parking
capacity of the project will remain unchanged. Additionally, it can be concluded that traffic conditions
associated with the project will not change since growth of church attendee numbers is not anticipated. Due
to the fact that traffic is not anticipated to increase as a result of the project, the petroleum consumed by
vehicle trips would be negligible. For this reason, the project would not result in an increase in operational
petroleum.
Over the lifetime of the project, the fuel efficiency of vehicles in use is expected to increase, as older
vehicles are replaced with newer more efficient models. Therefore, it is expected that the amount of
petroleum consumed due to the vehicle trips to and from the project site during operation would decrease
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over time. Additional advancement of technology includes the use of plug-in hybrid and zero emission
vehicles in California, which will also decrease the amount of future petroleum consumed in the state. With
the foregoing, operation of the project is expected to use decreasing amounts of petroleum over time, due
to advances in fuel economy. Additionally, the church facility is located in close proximity to existing
residential homes, medical facilities, pharmacy, shopping center, and restaurants along Washington Street
and Highway 111.
Finally, as stated in the project-specific GHG Report, the regional VMTs and associated vehicular-source
emissions are reduced by the following project design features/attributes: pedestrian connections shall be
provided to surrounding areas consistent with the City’s General Plan. Providing a pedestrian access
network to link areas of the project site encourages people to walk instead of drive. The project would
provide a pedestrian access network that internally links all uses and connects to all existing or planned
external streets and pedestrian facilities contiguous with the project site. The project would minimize
barriers to pedestrian access and interconnectivity. Given these considerations, petroleum consumption
associated with the project operation would not be considered excessive.
In conclusion, the project would increase demand for energy in the project area and in the service areas of
IID and SoCalGas. However, based on the findings described above, project construction and operation are
not anticipated to result in potentially significant impacts due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources, during project construction or operation.
b) Less than Significant Impact. The approximately 4.43-acre project proposes the development of a parish
hall, administration offices, and paved parking spaces. As stated in the previous discussion, the project
would provide indoor meeting and office spaces for the congregation. Currently, these meetings are held in
outdoor spaces on the Church property. Therefore, the project is not anticipated to result in more members
of the church and project development and operation are not anticipated to use an unnecessary amount of
energy resources. To ensure the conservation of energy, the state of California and the City of La Quinta
implements various regulations in order to be more energy efficient and reduce the amount of GHG
emissions. Some of the State-wide and local regulations are listed below.
State Regulations
Assembly Bill 32
Assembly Bill 32 (AB 32) was signed in 2006 to establish and reduce the amounts of greenhouse gases
being emitted on a state-wide level. Specifically, AB 32 requires a reduction of emissions to 1990 levels by
2020. It plans to do this by establishing an annual reporting program for significant sources. Energy
efficiency goals listed in AB 32 includes maximizing energy efficiency building and appliance standards,
and pursuing additional efficiency efforts including new technologies, and new policy and implementation
mechanisms. The project will include a variety of building, water, and solid waste efficiencies consistent
with the current CALGreen requirements, low-flow fixtures and efficient landscaping per State
requirements. The project will also be required to recycle a minimum of 50 percent from construction
activities and retail operations per State and City requirements. Therefore, the project is consistent with AB
32.
Executive Order S-3-05
Executive Order (EO) S-3-05, passed in 2005, established reduction targets of an 80 percent of 1990 levels
reduction by 2050, and created agencies to achieve these targets. The passage of this regulation requires the
use of more energy efficient practices regarding building development and operation in order to reduce the
amount of GHGs produced.
Senate Bill 32
Senate Bill 32 (SB 32) requires the state to reduce statewide GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990
levels by 2030, a reduction target that was first introduced in EO B-30-15. The new legislation builds upon
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the AB 32 goal of 1990 levels by 2020 and provides an intermediate goal to achieving S-3-05. The project
proposes to reduce GHG emissions to the maximum extent feasible, by utilizing energy efficient practices
stated in this discussion of energy resources.
Title 20: Appliance Efficiency Standards
The California Code of Regulations (CCR), Title 20: Division 2, Chapter 4, Article 4, Sections 1601-1608
(Appliance Efficiency Regulations) regulates the sale of appliances in California. The Appliance Efficiency
Regulations include standards for both federally regulated appliances and non-federally regulated
appliances. 23 categories of appliances are included in the scope of these regulations. The standards within
these regulations apply to appliances that are sold or offered for sale in California, except those sold
wholesale in California for final retail sale outside the state and those designed and sold exclusively for use
in recreational vehicles or other mobile equipment.
Title 24: Building Energy Efficiency Standards and CALGreen Building Standards Code
In addition to Title 20 (Sections 1601-1608) of the CCR, Title 24, parts 6 and 11, also outlines energy
efficient building designs for new development. The CCR’s Building Energy Efficiency Standards (Title
24, Part 6), and the CALGreen Building Standards Code (Title 24, Part 11), establish mandatory guidelines
and standards requiring more energy efficient new and existing developments. The California Energy
Commission adopted the Building Energy Efficient Standards for all new residential and nonresidential
construction to reduce greenhouse gases, as a part of the California Building Code, Title 24. This requires
new homes to include at least 50 percent of kitchen lighting to be LED, compact fluorescent or similar high
efficiency fixtures, double pane windows, cool roofs, and other design techniques to reduce heat loss. Title
24, Part 11, establishes 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. The proposed project will
be required to comply with the most current state implemented standards for energy efficient new
developments.
City Regulations
La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan
State-wide regulations, including previously mentioned AB 32 and Executive Order S-3-05, act as policy
guides for the City of La Quinta to reduce the City’s energy demand. The La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan,
published in 2012, was established in compliance with AB 32 and EO S-3-05, in order to reduce the amount
of GHG emissions produced in the City. Using AB 32 and EO S-3-05 as a guide, the GHG Reduction Plan
established a baseline year of 2005 to lower City GHG emissions to, by creating policies and programs in
order for the City to achieve the reduction expectations. According to the GHG Reduction Plan, new
development is required to adhere to the latest building code standards, which assure energy efficiency and
incorporate passive and active design features intended to benefit the overall operating efficiency of new
buildings.
Transportation is the largest emitter of GHGs; therefore, the City recognizes that fuel efficiency standards,
land use efficiencies, and reducing overall VMTs will result in the reduction of GHGs. The City established
specific goals, policies, and programs to reduce emissions from the transportation sector at a local level.
The policies and programs are intended to reduce dependence on personal motor vehicles and encourage
alternative modes of transportation, such as public transit, cycling and walking. For example,
implementation measure New Development (ND) 6, regarding transportation, requires that all new
development in the City accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists by (1) including facilities for safe and
convenient bicycle parking from non-resident and multi-family development, and (2) considering access
routes for pedestrians and bicycles. The project is anticipated to conform to this implementation measure
in the GHG Reduction Plan.
La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update
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The City of La Quinta is committed to reducing energy demand and consumption within their City.
According to the Livable Community Element in the La Quinta 2035 GPU, the conservation of energy
resources is vital in the lifestyle of their residents. Since the production of electricity and natural gases
requires the burning of fossil fuels, the increased demand for electricity in the City also increases air
pollution and greenhouse gas emissions created in the City. Therefore, reducing energy consumption will
contribute to reducing the amount of air pollutants and greenhouse gases generated by the production of
electricity and natural gas.
Working in congruence with the GHG Reduction Plan, the La Quinta 2035 GPU also strives to reduce
energy consumption in the City by requiring energy efficient and building design measures. The 2035 GPU
outlines various goals, policies and programs for energy efficient buildings within their City. Energy
efficiency is emphasized in the Circulation, Sustainable Community, Air Quality and Energy Elements in
the GPU. The overall goal is to reduce energy consumption in the City to improve air quality, reduce GHG
emissions, to increase the quality of life for the City’s residents.
La Quinta Municipal Code
Similar to the GHG Reduction Plan and the 2035 GPU, the City’s Municipal Code also includes provisions
that encourage the use of alternative transportation means that reduce the use of non-renewable energy and
the use of energy efficient appliances and building design standards. The following list includes some of
these provisions:
8.14.010, Adoption of the California Energy Code of the La Quinta Municipal Code requires that new
development implement energy efficiency building practices.
9.180, Transportation Demand Management, which is intended to protect the public health, safety and
welfare by reducing air pollution, traffic congestion and energy consumption attributable to vehicle
trips and vehicle miles traveled.
The project property proposes development of a parish hall, administration offices, and parking lot
associated with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. The project occupies approximately 4.43 acres of
the church property. As previously stated, the project will include a variety of building, water, and solid
waste efficiencies consistent with the current CALGreen requirements, low-flow fixtures and efficient
landscaping per State requirements. The project will also be required to recycle a minimum of 50 percent
from construction activities per State and City requirements. The project will comply with state-
implemented building standards such as those outlined in Title 20 and Title 24 of the California Code of
Regulations. As stated in the previous discussion, project-related petroleum consumption and VMTs during
operation of the project is not anticipated to increase since the project would not result in more members of
the church. Construction-related electricity, natural gas, and petroleum use, and operational electricity and
natural gas consumption are not anticipated to be substantial. Construction activities would require the use
of equipment that would be more energy intensive that is used for comparable activities. However,
construction equipment will comply with the Tier 3 program engines or higher, therefore would be newer
off-road equipment units.
The Church facility is located in close proximity to residential and commercial land uses along Washington
Street and Highway 111. The project will provide a pedestrian access network that internally links all uses
and connects to all exiting or planned external streets and pedestrian facilities contiguous with the project
site. The implementation of these project features will assist in reducing potential project-related VMTs.
The project property will comply with all applicable State and local guidelines and regulations regarding
energy efficient building design and standards. Therefore, the proposed project is not anticipated to conflict
or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency. Less than significant impacts are
expected.
Mitigation: None
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7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS -- Would the
project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Directly or indirectly cause potential
substantial adverse effects, including the risk of
loss, injury, or death involving:
i) Rupture of a known earthquake fault, as
delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State
Geologist for the area or based on other
substantial evidence of a known fault? Refer to
Division of Mines and Geology Special
Publication 42.
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
topsoil?
c) Be located on a geologic unit or soil that is
unstable, or that would become unstable as a
result of the project, and potentially result in on-
or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence,
liquefaction or collapse?
d) Be located on expansive soil, as defined in
Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code
(1994), creating direct or indirect substantial risks
to life or property?
e) Have soils incapable of adequately supporting
the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater
disposal systems where sewers are not available
for the disposal of wastewater?
f) Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique
geologic feature?
Source: California Department of Conservation; La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update; Sladden Engineering Geotechnical
Investigation February 2019.
Setting:
Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act
The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act was enacted in 1972 to prohibit the location of developments and
structures for human occupancy across the trace of active faults. To assist with this, the State Geologist delineates
appropriately wide earthquake fault zones (Alquist-Priolo Zones) to encompass potentially and recently active
traces, which are submitted to city and county agencies to be incorporated into their land use planning and
construction policies. A trace is a line on the earth’s surface defining a fault, and an active fault is defined as one
that has ruptured in the last 11,000 years. The minimum distance a structure for human occupancy can be placed
from an active fault is generally fifty feet.
Seismic Hazard Mapping Act
The Seismic Hazards Mapping Act (SHMA) of 1990 directs the Department of Conservation, California Geological
Survey to identify and map areas prone to earthquake hazards of liquefaction, earthquake-induced landslides and
amplified ground shaking. The purpose of the SHMA is to reduce the threat to public safety and to minimize the
loss of life and property by identifying and mitigating these seismic hazards.
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The SHMA requires the State Geologist to establish regulatory zones (Zones of Required Investigation) and to issue
appropriate maps (Seismic Hazard Zone maps). These maps are distributed to all affected cities, counties, and state
agencies for their use in planning and controlling construction and development. Single family frame dwellings up
to two stories not part of a development of four or more units are exempt from the state requirements. However,
local agencies can be more restrictive than state law requires.
California Code of Regulations, Title 24 (California Building Standard Code)
The California Building Standards Commission operates within the Department of General Services and is charged
with the responsibility to administer the process of approving and adopting building standards for publication in the
California Building Standards Code (Cal. Code Regs., Title 24). These regulations include provisions for site work,
demolition, and construction, which include excavation and grading, as well as provisions for foundations, retaining
walls, and expansive and compressible soils. The California Building Code also provides guidelines for building
design to protect occupants from seismic hazards.
The City of La Quinta Building Division currently uses the 2019 California Building Code (CBC) in the plan check
process and in field inspections. The City’s Building Division will use the latest CBC in effect at the time of
application for building permits within the Travertine Specific Plan project site as applications within planning
areas are submitted.
South Coast Air Quality Management District
South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMP) is the regulatory agency responsible for improving air
quality for Orange County and portions of Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and Riverside counties, including the
Coachella Valley. SCAQMD is responsible for controlling emissions primarily from stationary sources of air
pollution, including grading and construction sites. The main source of pollution from grading and construction
activities is fugitive dust, which is particulate matter that is suspended in the air by direct or indirect human
activities. Two South Coast AQMD rules were adopted with the purpose of reducing the amount of fugitive dust
entrained as a result of human activities. Rule 403 applies to any activity capable of generating fugitive dust. Rule
403.1 is supplemental to Rule 403 and applies only to fugitive dust sources in Coachella Valley.
Rule 403 (Fugitive Dust) requires the implementation of best available dust control measures (BACM) during active
operations capable of generating fugitive dust. This rule also requires activities defined as “large operations” to
notify the South Coast AQMD by submitting specific forms. A large operation is defined as any active operation
on property containing 50 or more acres of disturbed surface area; or any earth moving operation with a daily earth-
moving or throughput volume of 5,000 cubic yards, three times during the most recent 365 day period.
Rule 403.1 (Supplemental Fugitive Dust Control Requirements for Coachella Valley Sources) is a supplemental
rule to Rule 403 and is applicable to man-made sources of fugitive dust in Coachella Valley. The purpose of this
rule is to reduce fugitive dust and resulting PM10 emissions from man-made sources in the Coachella Valley. Rule
403.1 requires a Fugitive Dust Control Plan approved by South Coast AQMD or an authorized local government
agency prior to initiating any construction/ earth-moving activity. These requirements are only applicable to
construction projects with 5,000 or more square feet of surface area disturbance.
A Geotechnical Report for the project site was conducted by LandMark Consultants, Inc. in December 2019 to
update a 2006 Geotechnical Investigation produced by Sladden Engineering. The geotechnical analyses for the
project site in order to evaluate the engineering properties of the subsurface materials and provide engineering
recommendations and design criteria for the site preparation, foundation design, and the design of various site
improvements.
Paleontological Resources
Paleontological resources are the fossilized remains of ancient plants and animals. They occur in older soils which
have been deposited in the Valley over millions of years. Exhibit III-5, Paleontological Sensitivity Map in the 2035
La Quinta General Plan (LQGP), designates the project site in Lake Cahuilla Beds which has “undetermined” and
“low” paleontological sensitivity.
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a) i. Less than Significant Impact. The City of La Quinta, similar to most of Southern California, is susceptible
to earthquakes due to the various active faults that traverse the area. The La Quinta 2035 General Plan
Update (GPU) notes four faults with the potential to have a severe impact in the City. These faults include
the San Andreas, San Jacinto, Burnt Mountain and Elsinore Faults. Hazards such as landslide, structural
damage or destruction, liquefaction, and settlement are a potential result of rupture and strong seismic
ground shaking in the City of La Quinta.
To reduce losses from surface fault rupture on a statewide basis, the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone
Act was passed in 1972. This act was formed after the destructive San Fernando earthquake occurred a year
prior. The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone Act is intended to ensure public safety by prohibiting the
siting of most structures for human occupancy across traces of active faults that constitute a potential hazard
to structures from surface fault or fault creep (California Department of Conservation). After consulting the
most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Zoning Map, issued by the State Geologist, it was determined that
the closest Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone to the project site is the San Andreas Fault, approximately
6.1 miles northeast of the subject property. Conclusively, the project site is not located on an active fault or
within the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone.
With the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone Map and the La Quinta 2035 GPU, it can be concluded that
although seismically induced ground shaking is expected in the City, rupture from an earthquake fault is
not anticipated on the project site. There are no known active faults near or at the project site, and the project
is not located in an Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone. Therefore, impacts are expected to be less than
significant.
Mitigation: None
ii. Less than Significant Impact. Seismically induced ground shaking is the most potentially significant
geotechnical hazard, according to the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update (2035 GPU). Regional faults,
including the San Andreas and San Jacinto fault zones, have the potential to generate moderate to severe
ground shaking in the planning area. Factors that determine the effect of ground motion and the degree of
structural damage that may occur include: intensity of the earthquake, distance between epicenter and site,
soil and bedrock composition, depth to groundwater, presence of ridge tops, and building design and other
criteria (La Quinta 2035 GPU).
As stated in the previous discussion, the project site is located approximately 6.1 miles southwest of the
closest active fault zone, the San Andreas Fault. A Geotechnical Report for the project site was conducted
by LandMark Consultants, Inc. in December 2019 to update a 2006 Geotechnical Investigation produced
by Sladden Engineering. The 2019 Geotechnical Report states that the project site is considered likely to
be subjected to moderate to strong ground motion from earthquakes in the region. Ground motions are
dependent primarily on the earthquake magnitude and distance to the seismogenic (rupture) zone.
Acceleration magnitudes are also dependent upon attenuation by rock and soil deposits, direction of rupture
and type of fault, therefore, ground motions may vary considerably in the same general area.
With the foregoing, the proposed development will be constructed in a manner that reduces the risk of
seismic hazards (Title 24, California Code of Regulations). According to the Geotechnical Report by
LandMark and the 2019 California Building Code (CBC), Site Class D may be used to estimate design
seismic loading for the structures onsite. The Site Class is based on the soil properties in accordance with
Chapter 20 of ASCE 7. Site Class D is classified as “stiff soil.”
The project shall comply with the most current seismic design coefficients and ground motion parameters
and all applicable provisions of the CBC, specifically Chapter 16 of the CBC, Structural Design, Section
1613, Earthquake Loads, as well as City Municipal Code Section 8.02.010. Section 8.02.010 adopts the
2019 CBC for regulating the construction, alteration, movement, enlargement, replacement, repair,
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equipment, use and occupancy, location, maintenance, removal and demolition of every building or
structure or any appurtenances connected or attached to such buildings or structures.
Site work will be conducted in accordance with the geotechnical and soils analyses required with the
submittal of grading and building plans. Foundation and structural design of the site would reduce exposure
of people or structures to adverse effects to the greatest extent possible. Sladden Engineering recommended,
in their 2006 Geotechnical Investigation of the St. Francis of Assisi Church site, that existing vegetation,
slabs, foundations, abandoned underground utilities or irrigation lines should be removed, and grading of
the site would include the overexcavation and compaction of soil. Stripping areas of vegetation, associated
root systems, and debris, overexcavating and compacting throughout building and foundation areas will
remove soils and materials that are incompatible for development or materials with insufficient loads-
bearing capacity to support the onsite structures. With the implementation of appropriate building codes
and recommendations provided in the project geotechnical and soil analyses, impacts related to strong
seismic shaking at the project site will be less than significant.
Mitigation: None
iii. Less than Significant Impact. The Soils and Geology Element of the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update
indicates that liquefaction occurs when ground shaking of relatively long duration and intensity over 0.2 g
occurs in areas of loose, unconsolidated soils with relatively shallow groundwater depths (50 feet or less).
The sudden increase in water pressure in pores between soil grains may substantially decrease soil shear
strength, and the soil takes on the qualities of a liquid or a semi-viscous substance. This loss of soil strength
can result in ground settlement, ground undulation, lateral spreading or displacement, and flow failures.
Structures may sink or tilt as bearing capacity decreases, causing substantial damage (La Quinta 2035
GPU).
The Seismic Hazards Map (Exhibit IV-3), in the La Quinta 2035 GPU, indicates that areas of the
southeastern portion of the City are highly and moderately susceptible to liquefaction. This is due to the
shallow groundwater (between 30 to 50 feet below the ground surface) and the youthful, unconsolidated
sediments found in that area. However, Sladden Engineering, in their Geotechnical Investigation of the St.
Francis of Assisi Church site conducted in 2006 and updated in 2017, stated that several of the factors
required for liquefaction to occur are absent onsite. Sladden stated that groundwater was not encountered
within the bore tests, which extended to a depth of approximately 50 feet below the ground surface (bgs).
Due to the lack of shallow groundwater onsite, Sladden Engineering concluded that the potential for
liquefaction affecting the site is considered negligible.
Although the project property is not expected to be impacted by liquefaction, the project site shall adhere
to the most recent standard design requirements stated in the California Building Code (CBC) and the City’s
building standards to ensure the safety of the project against seismically induced hazards. Less than
significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
iv. Less than Significant Impact. As discussed previously, the City of La Quinta, like most of Southern
California, is susceptible to seismic ground shaking due to the multiple faults in the region. As a result of
seismic ground shaking, secondary effects such as slope failures, rockfalls and landslides may occur in the
City, especially throughout elevated areas. According to the La Quinta General Plan, landslides and rockfall
can occur when unstable slope conditions are worsened by strong ground motion caused by seismic events.
Typically, landslides have been recorded after periods of heavy rainfall, and rockfalls are associated with
slope failure during drier periods. Conditions that lead to landslide vulnerability include high seismic
potential, and rockfall and rockslides are common on very steep slopes.
The project site is located south of the existing sanctuary building for the St. Francis of Assisi Church. The
Church property lies adjacent to the slope of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Due to the project’s proximity to
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the Santa Rosa Mountain slopes, the project site is susceptible to rockfalls, soil block slides and soil slumps,
as designated by the Seismic Hazards Map (Exhibit IV-3) in the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update.
The project does not propose building structures to be located immediately adjacent to the slopes of the
Santa Rosa Mountains. Similar to the existing sanctuary building on the St. Francis of Assisi Church site,
the project will develop a paved vehicular driveway between the slopes and the proposed buildings. The
building setback from the mountain will continue to protect the structures from landslides or rockfalls. Less
than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. According to the La Quinta General Plan, erosion is influenced by factors
such as climate, topography, soil and rock types, and vegetation. The Coachella Valley is subject to
infrequent but often powerful storms that generate high rates of erosion, especially in areas where the soil
is not stabilized by vegetation due to natural causes (i.e. wildfire), or man-made causes (i.e. site clearing
and grading). Particulate matter less than 10 microns in diameter, classified as PM10, typically includes
suspended particles of dust, sand, metallic and mineral substances, road-surfacing materials, pollen, smoke,
fumes, and aerosols. Erosion, especially in the form of PM10, is a concern in the Coachella Valley because
it leads to sediment transport and re-deposition as well as health issues and property damage. Windborne,
waterborne and human erosion are all attributes of PM10 emissions in the region, and if not mitigated, it
can potentially result in serious health problems.
As stated previously, the project property is located on approximately 4.43 acres of land at the southwest
portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Church property. The project proposes a parish hall, administration
offices and parking spaces on the property. Development of the project will also include paved driveways
and associated improvements, landscaped features, and pedestrian walk-ways. The Wind Erosion
Susceptibility Map (Exhibit IV-5) in the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update specifies that the project site
is located in an area with a high and very high Wind Erodibility Rating, likely contributed to the
combination of the orientation of hill and mountains, the nature of the bedrock, slope and orientation of the
valley floor, and the hot, arid climate and sparse vegetation.
The project site has been previously graded and operates as parking (paved and unpaved) for the Church.
The construction of this project will involve ground disturbing activities, such as the clearing and grubbing
of existing landscaping, and grading of the property. These activities may increase the potential of soil
erosion at the time of development. Therefore, in order to mitigate the effect of erosion at the project site,
the project shall implement the Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan (PM10 Plan), otherwise
identified by the City of La Quinta as the Fugitive Dust Control Plan. The purpose of this plan is to reduce
the amount of particulate matter entrained in the ambient air as a result of anthropogenic fugitive dust
sources by requiring actions to prevent, reduce or mitigate fugitive dust emissions. The Fugitive Dust
Control Plan requires the implementation of best management practices (BMPs) such as the use of perimeter
fencing, applying adhesive dust suppressant, or watering the project site. The project property shall
implement the BMPs outlined within their project-specific PM10 Plan during construction of the project
site. Refer to the Air Quality section of this environmental document for further information on the Fugitive
Dust Control Plan.
In addition to the Fugitive Dust Control Plan, projects one acre in size or larger are required to comply with
the most current Construction General Permit (CGP) (Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ as amended by 2010-
0014-DWQ and 2012-0006-DWQ). Compliance with the CGP involves the development and
implementation of a project-specific Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), which is designed to
reduce potential adverse impacts to surface water quality during the period of construction. The required
plan will identify the locations and types of construction activities requiring BMPs and other necessary
compliance measures to prevent soil erosion and stormwater runoff pollution. The plan will also identify
the limits of allowable construction-related disturbance to prevent any exceedances or violations.
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Waterborne erosion and the City’s Standard Conditions associated with the topic are thoroughly discussed
in the Hydrology and Water Quality Section of the document.
The implementation of the Fugitive Dust Control Plan, and the SWPPP (outlined above, and further
discussed in the Air Quality and Hydrology Sections of this document) will ensure that impacts from
erosion created from the project site will be less than significant.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. According to the United States Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Web
Soil Survey Map, the project’s soil types primarily consist of Myoma fine sand (MaD). Myoma fine sand
(5 to 15 percent slopes) are somewhat excessively drained with a vey low runoff class. This knowledge of
the project’s soil types is essential for new development regarding potential hazards.
As discussed previously, in section a) iii., liquefaction occurs when ground shaking of relatively long
duration and intensity causes loose, unconsolidated soils to act like a liquid and lose strength. For
liquefaction to occur in an area, the groundwater would have to be within 50 feet of the surface. Effects of
liquefaction include a loss of bearing strength, ground oscillations, and lateral spreading or displacement.
The La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update declares that the project site is not located in an area susceptible
to liquefaction due to the lack of shallow groundwater. Since the approximate depth to groundwater is
greater than 50 feet below the site, the potential for liquefaction and lateral spreading is low. Additionally,
geotechnical reports provided for the project area did not encounter groundwater at depths of 50 feet below
ground surface (bgs) during boring tests. Due to the lack of shallow groundwater, impacts are anticipated
to be less than significant.
As discussed in portion a) iv. of this Geotechnical Section, the project site’s western boundary is located
east of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Therefore, the City of La Quinta, in Exhibit IV-3 of the 2035 GPU,
designates the project site to be located adjacent to an area susceptible rockfalls, soil block slides and soil
slumps. As previously stated, the parish hall and administration buildings will be separated from the slopes
of the hillsides by paved driveways, similar to the existing sanctuary building north of the proposed project.
Therefore, impacts from landslides or rockfall are expected to be less than significant.
Ground subsidence is the gradual settling or sinking of the ground surface with little or no horizontal
movement. It is caused by both human activities (i.e. groundwater extraction) and natural activities (i.e.
earthquakes) and can cause regional damage. According to the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, the
only recorded subsidence induced fissures in the Coachella Valley occurred in La Quinta in 1948, near the
base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, at the south end of the City. The Safety Element in the Riverside County
General Plan indicates that the project site is situated in an area susceptible to ground subsidence due to
regional withdrawal of groundwater. The potential for area ground subsidence is a regional issue that could
possibly impact the City of La Quinta; however, monitoring conducted by the U.S. Geological Survey
(USGS), CVWD and others shows that subsidence rates in the Coachella Valley have been increasing
rapidly over the past several decades. CVWD has implemented a variety of measures, such as groundwater
recharge, imported water, and water conservation techniques and programs to minimize the extraction of
groundwater. Although subsidence has been recorded in La Quinta, the Geotechnical Report indicates that
no fissures or other surficial evidence of subsidence were observed at the subject site.
Grading plans and structural engineering plans will be reviewed and approved by the City. The project will
be conditioned to comply with the current California Building Code (CBC) standards, City requirements,
and recommendations stated within the geotechnical report and investigation to reduce the impacts of
potentially unstable soils; therefore, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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d) No Impact. Expansive soils, as defined by the Riverside County General Plan, have a significant amount
of clay particles which can give up water (shrink) or take on water (swell). The change in volume exerts
stress on buildings and other loads placed on these soils, making them potentially hazardous. These soils
can also be widely dispersed, occurring in both hillside areas and low-lying alluvial basins.
Sladden Engineering, in the Geotechnical Investigation for the St. Francis of Assisi Church property (2006),
indicates that because of the prominence of “very low” expansion category soil near the surface, special
expansive soil design criteria should not be a controlling factor in the design of the foundations and concrete
slabs on grade. The mixing of surface soil that may occur during the recommended remedial grading may
result in changes of the expansion potential. Therefore, final design criteria and slab reinforcement should
be established by the Structural Engineer based upon post grading test results. The project shall comply
with the recommendations established within the geotechnical reports conducted for the property to ensure
the foundational safety of the project site. Therefore, impacts will be less than significant.
Mitigation: None
e) No Impact. The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) provides the City of La Quinta with sanitary
sewer collection and treatment, and according to the 2035 General Plan Update, most of the City is served
by sewer. The proposed 4.43-acre project is located on the St. Francis of Assisi Church property, which is
currently served by water and sewer and connects to existing infrastructure. The project will not use septic
systems. The project proposes to connect with the existing sewer infrastructure to provide sewer to the
additional church buildings (i.e., parish hall and administration offices). For further discussion, consult the
Utilities Section of this document. Sepic tanks are not proposed, and no impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
f) Less than Significant Impact. According to the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, paleontological
resources are the fossilized remains of ancient plants and animals. They occur in older soils which have
been deposited in the Valley over millions of years. Exhibit III-5, Paleontological Sensitivity Map in the
2035 GPU, designates that the project site is located in an area with an “undetermined” amount of
paleontological sensitivity. However, Exhibit III-5 also determines that recent dune sand is the primary soil
type that is present at the project site. Regional winds deposit the recent dune sands present at the project
site. Dune sand varies in depth and could overlay older alluvium at depth. This soil type has a low potential
for paleontological resources due to its recent transport into the area.
Per the Riverside County Land Information System, the project site is recognized as having “high” potential
for Paleontological Sensitivity. Areas recognized for having “high” potential is based on geologic
formations or mappable rock units that are rocks that contain fossilized body elements, and trace fossils
such as tracks, nests and eggs. These fossils occur on or below the surface.
The approximately 4.43-acre project area currently operates as a parking lot for the St. Francis of Assisi
Church. The site has been graded since at least 2010, while the existing church facility was developed in
1984. The proposed project occurs north of the historic boundary of ancient Lake Cahuilla, which is the
only paleontologically sensitive geologic feature in the City. The soils outside the boundary of the ancient
lake are too young geographically, and are composed of sands and fine sands, which are not conducive to
fossilization. Additionally, the site has been subject to previous grading activities and has operated as a
parking facility for the St. Francis of Assisi Church. As a result, no impacts to paleontological resources
are expected as a result of the proposed project.
Mitigation: None
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8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS --
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a significant
impact on the environment?
b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the
emissions of greenhouse gases?
Sources: Saint Francis of Assisi Greenhouse Gas Analysis, June 30, 2021; Final 2016 Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP),
by SCAQMD, March 2017; Final 2003 Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan (CVSIP), by SCAQMD, August
2003; Analysis of the Coachella Valley PM10 Redesignation Request and Maintenance Plan, by the California Air Resources
Board, February 2010; California Emissions Estimator Model (CalEEMod), Version 2020.4.0. California Greenhouse Gas
Emissions for 2000 to 2017, Trends of Emissions and Other Indicators, 2019 Edition, California Air Resources Board; Release
No. 18-37 & 19-35, California Air Resources Board Press Release, July 2018 and August 2019.
Setting:
Summary of Greenhouse Gas Fundamentals and Regulatory Framework:
Greenhouse gases (GHG) are a group of gases that trap solar energy in the Earth’s atmosphere, preventing it from
becoming too cold and uninhabitable. Common greenhouse gases in the Earth’s atmosphere include water vapor,
carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), ozone, and chlorofluorocarbons to a lesser extent.
Carbon dioxide is the main GHG thought to contribute to climate change. Carbon dioxide reflects solar radiation
back to Earth, thereby trapping solar energy and heat within the lower atmosphere. Human activities (such as
burning carbon-based fossil fuels) create water vapor and CO2 as byproducts, thereby impacting the levels of GHG
in the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) is a metric used to compare emissions of various greenhouse
gases. It is the mass of carbon dioxide that would produce the same estimated radiative forcing as a given mass of
another greenhouse gas. Carbon dioxide equivalents are computed by multiplying the mass of the gas emitted by
its global warming potential. Global Climate Change (GCC) is defined as the change in average meteorological
conditions on the earth with respect to temperature, precipitation, and storms. GCC is currently one of the most
controversial environmental issues in the United States, and debate exists within the scientific community about
whether or not GCC is occurring naturally or as a result of human activity.
To address the long-term adverse impacts associated with global climate change, California’s Global Warming
Solutions Act of 2006 (AB 32) requires California Air Resource Board (CARB) to reduce statewide emissions of
greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by 2020. In 2016, Governor Jerry Brown signed Senate Bill 32 (SB32) that requires
California to reduce GHG emissions to 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030. With the passage of the California
Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 (Assembly Bill 32) in California, environmental documents for projects
pursuant to CEQA are required to analyze greenhouse gases and assess the potential significance and impacts of
GHG emissions.
On July 11, 2018, CARB announced in a press release (No. 18-37) that greenhouse gas pollution in California fell
below 1990 levels for the first time since emissions peaked in 2004, an achievement roughly equal to taking 12
million cars off the road or saving 6 billion gallons of gasoline a year. Moreover, according to the CARB report on
California Greenhouse Gas Emissions for 2000 to 2017 (published in 2019), which tracks the trends of GHG
emissions, California’s GHG emissions have followed a declining trend between 2007 and 2017. In 2017, emissions
from GHG emitting activities statewide were 424 million metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MMTCO2e), 5
MMTCO2e lower than 2016 levels and 7 MMTCO2e below the 2020 GHG Limit of 431 MMTCO2e. The largest
reductions are attributed to the electricity sector, which continues to see decreases as a result of the state’s climate
policies. The transportation sector remains the largest source of GHG emissions in the state, but saw a 1 percent
increase in emissions in 2017, the lowest growth rate over the previous 4 years.
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On August 12, 2019, California Governor Gavin Newsom announced in a press release (No. 19-35) that GHG
emissions in California continued to fall ahead of schedule in 2017 as the state’s economy grew ahead of the national
average, according to the California Air Resources Board’s latest state inventory of climate-changing emissions.
The data also shows that for the first time since California started to track GHG emissions, the state power grid used
more energy from zero-GHG sources like solar and wind power than from electrical generation powered by fossil
fuels. The press release also included the following highlights:
Electricity: Emissions from electricity generation made up about 15 percent of 2017 statewide greenhouse gas
emissions. In 2017, those emissions fell nine percent from 2016, the largest decline of any economic sector. A large
increase in zero-emission energy resources drove the reduction. Those clean sources powered 52 percent of all
California’s electricity consumed in 2017.
Transportation: Vehicle tailpipe emissions accounted for 37 percent of California’s 2017 GHG emissions. Those
emissions rose but showed signs of leveling off. The 2017 increase was 0.7 percent, down from two percent the
preceding year. Most of the greenhouse gas emissions increase came from passenger vehicles.
Industry: Industrial emissions over multiple sectors showed a slight reduction or remained flat. California’s
industrial sectors generated 21 percent of state GHGs in 2017. Oil & gas refineries and hydrogen production were
responsible for one-third of those emissions. The rest came mostly from oil & gas extraction, cement plants, glass
manufacturers and large food processors.
a) Less Than Significant Impact: At the project-specific level, the analytical and quantitative findings are
based on the Saint Francis of Assisi Greenhouse Gas Analysis (GHGA), completed by Urban Crossroads
on June 30, 2021. The purpose of the GHGA was to evaluate project-related construction and operational
emissions and determine the level of GHG impacts as a result of constructing and operating the proposed
project. The GHGA methodology took into account the project’s facility dimensions (building areas,
parking spaces, landscaping, etc) as inputs to the CalEEMod software for quantifying the GHG emissions
and compare them against the applicable thresholds. The currently applicable GHG thresholds for local
lead agency consideration are referenced from the SCAQMD Working Group Threshold supporting
documentation, which establishes an interim tiered approach. Under this guidance, a screening threshold of
3,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MTCO2e) per year applies to the project.
The proposed project will incorporate design features and operational programs considered to be energy-
saving and sustainable. Because these features/attributes are integral to the project, and/or are regulatory
requirements, they are not considered to be mitigation measures.
Regional vehicle miles traveled (VMT) and associated vehicular-source emissions are reduced by
the following Project design features/attributes:
o Pedestrian connections shall be provided to surrounding areas consistent with the City’s
General Plan. Providing a pedestrian access network to link areas of the Project site encourages
people to walk instead of drive. The Project would provide a pedestrian access network that
internally links all uses and connects to all existing or planned external streets and pedestrian
facilities contiguous with the project site. The Project would minimize barriers to pedestrian
access and interconnectivity.
The project will design building shells and building components, such as windows; roof systems:
electrical and lighting systems: and heating, ventilating, and air conditioning systems to meet 2019
(or the most current version at the time of construction) Title 24 Standards which expects 30% less
energy for non-residential buildings and 53% less energy for residential use due to energy
efficiency measures combined with rooftop solar electricity generation.
To reduce water demands and associated energy use, subsequent development proposals within the
project site would be required to implement a Water Conservation Strategy and demonstrate a
minimum 20% reduction in indoor and outdoor water usage when compared to baseline water
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demand (total expected water demand without implementation of the Water Conservation
Strategy)1.
The project is required to comply with SCAQMD Rule 445, which prohibits the use of wood
burning stoves and fireplaces in new development.
In order to reduce the amount of waste disposed at landfills, the project would be required to
implement a 50% waste diversion as required by AB 939.
Based on the GHGA, the project-related GHG emission levels are displayed below in Table VIII-1.
Table VIII-1 Total Project Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Unmitigated Emission
Source
Emissions
(metric tons per year)
Total CO2E
Annual Construction
Emissions Amortized Over 30 15.50
Area, Energy, Mobile Sources,
Waste, and Water Usage 280.31
Total CO2E (All Sources) 295.81
SCAQMD Threshold for
Industrial Projects 3,000
Threshold Exceeded? NO
As shown in VIII-1 resulting from the CalEEMod calculations, the project is expected to generate
approximately 295.81 MTCO2e per year from construction, area, energy, mobile sources, waste, and water
usage sources. Therefore, the project GHG emissions would not exceed the threshold of significance set at
3,000 MTCO2e per year. Having been evaluated against the regionally accepted thresholds, which are part
of the State’s regulations aimed at addressing climate change, the project is not expected to interfere with
the plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.
Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact: As previously mentioned in discussion a), under Assembly Bill 32 passed
in 2006, California must reduce its emissions to 1990 levels (431 million metric tons) by 2020. Senate Bill
32, signed in 2016, requires the state to go even further than AB 32 and cut emissions 40 percent below
1990 levels by 2030—the most ambitious carbon goal in North America. California’s primary programs
for reducing greenhouse gases to 1990 levels by 2020 are the Renewables Portfolio Standard, the Advanced
Clean Cars Program, the Low Carbon Fuel Standard and the Cap-and-Trade Program. Additional programs
address a variety of greenhouse gas sources. These include the Short-Lived Climate Pollutants Strategy, the
Sustainable Communities Strategy and the Sustainable Freight Action Plan. The 2030 Scoping Plan,
adopted by CARB, lays out how these initiatives work together to reduce greenhouse gases to achieve
California’s 2030 target of 260 million metric tons and also to reduce smog-causing pollutants. This target
will require California to more than double the rate at which it has been cutting climate-changing gases.
Future reductions will occur against a backdrop of natural sources of GHGs which are increasingly variable
because of the climate change California is already witnessing. The SCAQMD adopted the interim GHG
1 Reduction of 20% indoor and outdoor water usage is consistent with the current CalGreen Code performance standards for residential and non‐residential
land uses. Per CalGreen, the reduction shall be based on the maximum allowable water use per plumbing fixture and fittings as required by the California
Building Standards Code.
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significance threshold for stationary/industrial sources on December 5, 2008 which applies to Projects
where the SCAQMD is the lead agency. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
On July 11, 2018, CARB announced in a press release (No. 18-37) that greenhouse gas pollution in
California fell below 1990 levels for the first time since emissions peaked in 2004, an achievement roughly
equal to taking 12 million cars off the road or saving 6 billion gallons of gasoline a year. Moreover,
according to the CARB report on California Greenhouse Gas Emissions for 2000 to 2017 (published in
2019), which tracks the trends of GHG emissions, California’s GHG emissions have followed a declining
trend between 2007 and 2017. In 2017, emissions from GHG emitting activities statewide were 424 million
metric tons of CO2 equivalent (MMTCO2e), 5 MMTCO2e lower than 2016 levels and 7 MMTCO2e below
the 2020 GHG Limit of 431 MMTCO2e. The largest reductions are attributed to the electricity sector, which
continues to see decreases as a result of the State’s climate policies. The transportation sector remains the
largest source of GHG emissions in the state, but saw a 1 percent increase in emissions in 2017, the lowest
growth rate over the past 4 years. The transportation sector, the state’s largest source of greenhouse gases,
saw a 2 percent increase in emissions in 2016 because of increased fuel consumption. The state has also
documented the increased use of biofuels as a result of the state’s Low Carbon Fuel Standard. These low-
carbon alternative fuels, consisting mostly of biodiesel, renewable diesel, and ethanol, reduced emissions
by 14 million metric tons of carbon dioxide, when compared to what would have been generated if
conventional fossil fuels had been used.
City of La Quinta Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan
In 2012, the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Plan was prepared as part of the City’s General Plan Update,
drawing input from utility providers and various technical studies to conduct the community wide and
government specific greenhouse gas inventory. The inventory established a baseline year of 2005, then
projected future year emissions based on 2005 emission levels. The reduction targets identified in the
Plan are consistent with AB 32 and a goal to reduce CO2e emissions to 10 percent below 2005 levels by
2020 and 28 percent below 2005 levels by 2035.
The La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan was established in compliance with AB 32 and EO S-3-05, in order to
reduce the amount of GHG emissions produced in the City. Using AB 32 and EO S-3-05 as a guide, the
GHG Reduction Plan established policies and programs in order for the City to achieve the reduction
expectations. According to the GHG Reduction Plan, new development is required to adhere to the latest
building code standards, which assure energy efficiency and incorporate passive and active design features
intended to benefit the overall operating efficiency of new buildings.
Transportation is the largest emitter of GHGs; therefore, the City recognizes that fuel efficiency standards,
land use efficiencies, and reducing overall VMTs will result in the reduction of GHGs. The City established
specific goals, policies, and programs to reduce emissions from the transportation sector at a local level.
The policies and programs are intended to reduce dependence on personal motor vehicles and encourage
alternative modes of transportation, such as public transit, cycling and walking. For example,
implementation measure New Development (ND) 6, regarding transportation, requires that all new
development in the City accommodate pedestrians and bicyclists by (1) including facilities for safe and
convenient bicycle parking from non-resident and multi-family development, and (2) considering access
routes for pedestrians and bicycles. The project is anticipated to conform to this implementation measure.
Emissions and emission reductions were calculated for both municipal activities and community wide
activities. The proposed project falls into the Community Wide Activities category. The baseline inventory
completed for the project includes GHG emissions from the use of energy for both the residential and
commercial sectors, fuel combustion from transportation, and the disposal of solid waste associated with
residents’ and businesses’ activities within the City of La Quinta. The communitywide GHG trend under
business-as-usual conditions for the 2005 baseline level is 460,946 metric tons of CO2e, the 2020 reduction
target of 414,852 metric tons of CO2e, and the 2035 reduction target of 331,881 metric tons of CO2e.
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In summary, the project is expected to result in GHG emissions totaling 295.81 MTCO2e per year from
construction, area, energy, mobile sources, waste, and water usage sources, which is considerably below
the accepted threshold of 3,000 MTCO2e per year in compliance with AB 32, EO S-3-05, and the City’s
GHG Reduction Plan. As a result, the project is not expected to conflict with any applicable plan, policy or
regulation for the purpose of reducing GHG emissions. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS -
- Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?
b) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and
accident conditions involving the release of hazardous
materials into the environment?
c) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?
d) Be located on a site which is included on a list of
hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to
Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result,
would it create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment?
e) For a project located within an airport land use plan
or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two
miles of a public airport or public use airport, would
the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise
for people residing or working in the project area?
f) Impair implementation of or physically interfere
with an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan?
g) Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death
involving wildland fires?
Sources: Department of Toxic Substances Control, EnviroStor 2021; Enforcement and Compliance History Online, 2021; La
Quinta Police Department website; State Water Resources Control Board, GeoTracker, 2021; Very High Fire Hazard Severity
Zones in Locally Responsible Areas, CALFIRE, accessed 2021.
Setting:
Hazardous Materials
The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR Title 40, Part 261) defines hazardous materials based on ignitability,
reactivity, corrosivity, and/or toxicity properties. The State of California defines hazardous materials as substances
that are toxic, ignitable, or flammable, reactive and/or corrosive, which have the capacity of causing harm or a
health hazard during normal exposure or an accidental release. As a result, the use and management of hazardous
or potentially hazardous substances is regulated under existing federal, state, and local laws.
Hazardous Waste
The United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) simply defines hazardous waste as a waste with
properties that make it dangerous or capable of having a harmful effect on human health or the environment.
Hazardous waste is generated from sources ranging from industrial manufacturing process wastes to batteries and
may come in many forms, including liquids, solids, gases, and sludges. These can include everyday commercial
products, such as pesticides, cleaning fluids, and household sprays, as well as byproducts of manufacturing
processes. The EPA has classified hazardous waste into four categories:
• Listed wastes – wastes from common manufacturing and industrial processes, waste from specific
industries such as petroleum refining or pesticide manufacturing, and discarded commercial products;
• Characteristic wastes – non-listed wastes that exhibit ignitability, corrosively, reactivity, and toxicity;
• Universal wastes – batteries, mercury-containing equipment, and fluorescent lamps and bulbs; and
• Mixed wastes – radioactive and hazardous waste components.
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A hazardous material may become hazardous waste upon its accidental release into the environment. All hazardous
wastes must be discharged into a Class I landfill. No Class I landfill is currently operated within Riverside County.
Hazardous Waste generated within Riverside County and disposed of in Kern County or Santa Barbra County,
where active Class I landfills are located. Some waste is also transported out of the State.
Many types of businesses can be producers of hazardous waste. Small businesses such as dry cleaners, auto repair
shops, medical facilities or hospitals, photo processing centers, and metal plating shops are usually generators of
small quantities of hazardous wastes. Generators of large quantities of hazardous waste include chemical
manufacturers, large electroplating facilities, and petroleum refineries. All significant spills, releases or threatened
releases of hazardous materials must be immediately reported.
In the City of La Quinta, hazardous materials are limited to small quantity generators (those generating less than
1,000 kilograms of hazardous waste per month), ranging from individual households to service stations and medical
clinics. Household hazardous waste can be disposed of properly through Household Hazardous Waste disposal
events, or at a network of “ABOP” facilities operated by the Riverside County Waste Management Department. An
ABOP – or Antifreeze, Batteries, Oil, Paint – facility is located in Palm Springs, at 1100 Vella Road, and accepts
these materials, as well as electronic waste. Household Hazardous Waste disposal events are held periodically at
varying locations throughout the County, including cities in the Coachella Valley. Adverse environmental impacts
can occur when household hazardous materials are disposed of in unlined sanitary landfills, where these materials
may leach through the soil and contaminate groundwater.
In addition to businesses, development activities have the potential to encounter previously unknown hazardous
materials contamination from historical use of a property. However, such contamination can be mediated by existing
federal, State, and local policies and procedures implemented by the designated local enforcement agency.
Hazardous wastes require special handling and disposal methods to reduce their potential to damage public health
and the environment. Manufacturer’s specifications dictate the proper use, handling, and disposal methods for the
specific substances. All hazardous waste poses a threat to humans and the environment, and therefore is regulated
by federal, State, and local programs. In most cases, it is a violation of federal or State law to improperly store,
apply, transport, or dispose of hazardous materials and waste.
Local Schools
The project site is located within the boundary of the Coachella Valley Unified School District. The closest school
is the La Quinta High School, located approximately 0.75 miles northeast of the project site at 79255 Blackhawk
Way.
Public Airports/Private Airstrips
The Palm Springs International Airport is located approximately 13.70 miles to the northwest of the project, and
the Bermuda Dunes Airport is located approximately 3 miles northeast of the project. Additionally, the Jacqueline
Cochran Regional Airport is located approximately 8.80 miles southeast of the project site.
a-b) Less than Significant Impact. The Code of Federal Regulations (CFR Title 40, Part 261) defines
hazardous materials based on ignitability, reactivity, corrosivity, and/or toxicity properties. The State of
California defines hazardous materials as substances that are toxic, ignitable or flammable, reactive and/or
corrosive, which have the capacity of causing harm or a health hazard during normal exposure or an
accidental release. As a result, the use and management of hazardous or potentially hazardous substances
is regulated under existing federal, state and local laws. Hazardous wastes require special handling and
disposal methods to reduce their potential to damage public health and the environment. Manufacturer’s
specifications dictate the proper use, handling, and disposal methods for the specific substances. In most
cases, it is a violation of Federal or State law to improperly store, apply, transport, or dispose of hazardous
materials and waste.
Construction
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Construction of the proposed project is expected to involve the temporary management and use of oils,
fuels and other potentially flammable substances. The nature and quantities of these products would be
limited to what is necessary to carry out construction of the project. Some of these materials would be
transported to the site periodically by vehicle and would be stored in designated controlled areas on a short-
term basis. When handled properly by trained individuals and consistent with the manufacturer’s
instructions and industry standards, the risk involved with handling these materials is considerably reduced.
The contractor will be required to identify a controlled staging area within the project limits for storing
materials and equipment. The contractor will also be required to implement best management practices
(BMPs) to ensure that impacts are minimized and that any minor spills are immediately and properly
remediated.
Furthermore, to prevent a threat to the environment during construction, the management of potentially
hazardous materials and other potential pollutant sources will be regulated, in part, through the
implementation of measures required in the Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for the
project. The SWPPP requires a list of potential pollutant sources and the identification of construction areas
where additional control measures are necessary to prevent pollutants from being released on-site or into
the surroundings. Best management practices (BMPs) are necessary for proper material delivery and
storage; material use; and spill prevention and control. These temporary measures outline the required
physical improvements and procedures to prevent impacts of pollutants and hazardous materials to workers
and the environment during construction. For example, all construction materials, including paints,
solvents, and petroleum products, must be stored in controlled areas and according to the manufacturer’s
specifications. In addition, perimeter controls (fencing with wind screen), linear sediment barriers (gravel
bags, fiber rolls, or silt fencing), and access restrictions (gates) would help prevent temporary impacts. With
such standard measures in place, less than significant impacts are anticipated during construction.
Operation
The project proposes the development of a parish hall, administration office building and parking spaces
on approximately 4.43 acres south/southwest of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church in the City of La
Quinta. The nature of church-related facilities is not expected to involve, as a primary activity, the routine
transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials in quantities or a manner that would pose a threat to the
project and its surroundings or create a significant hazard through a foreseeable accident conditions
involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment. The regular operation of the proposed
project does not intend to use copious amounts of hazardous materials. The handling, application, and
storage of cleaning agents, building maintenance products, paints, solvents and other related substances is
expected to occur within the project in order to carry out the necessary operations in each facility or use.
However, these materials would not be present in sufficient quantities to pose a significant hazard to public
health and safety, or the environment.
Project construction and operation is expected to result in less than significant impacts.
Mitigation: None
c) No Impact. The project site is not located within ¼ mile of an existing or proposed school. The closest
school to the project site is La Quinta High School, located approximately 0.75 miles northeast of the
project. Therefore, no impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
d) No Impact. As previously discussed, the project proposes to develop a parish hall, administration building
and parking spaces on approximately 4.43 acres south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. The
project site currently operates as paved overflow parking associated with the Church. Pursuant to
Government Code 65962.5 and its subsections, record searches on the project property were performed
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within multiple database platforms. The resources consulted included GeoTracker, EnviroStor and the EPA
Enforcement and Compliance History Online (ECHO).
GeoTracker is a database maintained by the State of California Water Resources Control Board that
provides online access to environmental data. It serves as the management system for tracking regulatory
data on sites that can potentially impact groundwater, particularly those requiring groundwater cleanup and
permitted facilities, such as operating underground storage tanks and land disposal sites.
EnviroStor is a database maintained by the State of California Department of Toxic Substances Control
(DTSC). The EnviroStor database identifies sites with known contamination or sites for which there may
be reasons to investigate further. It includes the identification of formerly contaminated properties that have
been released for reuse; properties where environmental deed restrictions have been recorded to prevent
inappropriate land uses; and risk characterization information that is used to assess potential impacts to
public health and the environment at contaminated sites.
Moreover, the ECHO database focuses on inspection, violation, and enforcement data for the Clean Air Act
(CAA), Clean Water Act (CWA) and Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA) and also includes
Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA) and Toxics Release Inventory (TRI) data.
In October 2021, a search was performed on all three database platforms. The three consulted databases did
not list any facilities related to the project site. The three databases, however, recorded sites within one mile
of the project property. The results are described below.
The GeoTracker database listed two registered Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Cleanup Site
within one mile of the project site. One registered LUST Site is listed as Simon Motors located at 78611
Highway 111, approximately 0.60 miles north of the project site. The second registered LUST Cleanup Site
is Arco AM/PM #5419 and Arco #5896, located at 46150 Washington Street, approximately 0.70 miles
north of the project property. Each registered site is listed as “Completed, Case Closed” as of 2001 and
2003, respectively. The registered facilities will not affect the project site due to their distances from the
project, and their statuses of “Completed-Case Closed.”
The search results in the EnviroStor database did not identify any records on the project site, however, the
database listed one School Investigation site within a mile of the project property. The School Investigation
site includes the La Quinta High School Expansion, approximately one-mile northeast of the project site.
The facility has a cleanup status of “No Further Action” since 2010, according to the EnviroStor database.
The EnviroStor database did not identify any Leaking Underground Storage Tank (LUST) Cleanup Sites,
Land Disposal Sites, Military Sites, DTSC Hazardous Waste Permits, DTSC Cleanup Sites, or Permitted
Underground Storage Tanks on or around the project property.
The ECHO database listed eleven facilities within a one-mile radius of the project site. The closest
registered facility is Walgreens #7765, located at 47900 Washington Street. This site lies approximately
0.70 miles southeast of the project site and is registered in the Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
(RCRA) as an active very small quantity generator (VSQG). The site currently does not have any violations.
ECHO listed ten additional sites within a mile of the project property, however, they are all listed within
the database as not having an identified violation within the recorded three-year history. Therefore, the
listed sites are not anticipated to impact the project. The table below indicates the ten registered sites.
Table IX-1 ECHO Registered Sites
Registered Facility Address Distance from
Project Listed Status
Simon Motors, Inc. 78611 Highway 111 0.48 miles NE RCRA - Active SQG* No violation
Autozone #5560 78792 Highway 111 0.50 miles NE RCRA - Active Other No violation
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Point Happy
Estates 78360 Heritage Way 0.50 miles N
CWA Minor General
Permit Covered
Facility – Expired
No violation/
undetermined
Bed Bath and
Beyond #1030 79110 Highway 111 0.67 miles NE RCRA - Active Other No violation
La Quinta Dry
Cleaners 78279 Highway 111 0.68 miles N RCRA - Active SQG No violation
Emerald Desert
Cleaners 78580 Highway 111 0.69 miles N RCRA - Active SQG No violation
Mazda Superstore 79225 Highway 111 0.74 miles E RCRA - Active SQG No violation
PetSmart #1230 79375 Highway 111 0.92 miles E RCRA - Active Other No violation
Marshalls 0014 79395 Highway 111 0.92 miles E RCRA - Active Other No violation
Express Cleaners 79410 Hwy 111 #105 0.94 miles NE RCRA - Active Other No violation
*SQG – Small Quantity Generator
After the search of the three databases, it can be concluded that the registered facilities are not anticipated
to affect the project site due to their distance to the site and their status as “Completed-Case Closed” or no
violations. Overall, no impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
e) No Impact. The project is not located within an airport land use plan or private airstrip. The Palm Springs
International Airport is located approximately 13.70 miles to the northwest of the project, and the Bermuda
Dunes Airport is located approximately 3 miles northeast of the project. Additionally, the Jacqueline
Cochran Regional Airport is located approximately 8.80 miles southeast of the project site. As a result, the
project is located outside each of the airports’ influence and planning area. Flights approaching and
departing the Palm Springs International Airport, Bermuda Dunes Airport and Jacqueline Cochran Regional
Airport may fly over the City and the project site with an intermittent frequency, however, it is not
anticipated to result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area.
No impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
f) Less than Significant Impact. The Emergency Services Element of the La Quinta 2035 GPU addresses
multiple components of the City’s public safety services, including police and fire service, emergency
medical response and emergency preparedness. The City of La Quinta is contracted for police services from
the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. According to the La Quinta Police Department website, there
are two police departments contracted with the City. These include the La Quinta Police Department at
78495 Calle Tampico, and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at 86625 Airport Boulevard in
Thermal. The La Quinta Police Department is approximately 1.85 miles south of the proposed site. This
Department provides service to an area of over 33 square miles and a population of over 38,075 residents.
Fire services in the City of La Quinta are provided by three fire stations in the City including: Fire Station
#32 at 78111 Avenue 52, Station #70 at 54001 Madison Street, and Station #93 at 44555 Adams Street.
Station #32 is located approximately 2.25 miles south of the project, while Station #93 is located
approximately 1.50 miles northeast of the project. Response times for fire services in the City are five
minutes or less 90 percent of the time. Fire protection service is provided to the City by the Riverside
County Fire Department. Paramedic service is provided to the City of La Quinta and the project area by
Springs Ambulance Service. Paramedic staff is located at Station #70. The Police and Fire Departments
within the City relies on mutual aid agreements with neighboring jurisdictions to provide additional services
when necessary.
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According to the City of La Quinta 2035 GPU, the City’s primary tool in preparing for emergencies is its
adopted Emergency Operations Plan (EOP). The EOP establishes procedures and responsibilities for City
personnel and acts as a guide for the City’s response to emergencies. The EOP is managed by the
Emergency Services Division Manager who is responsible for both planning and implementation of
emergency response efforts and preparedness in the City. The Division coordinates with other local
jurisdictions and the County of Riverside in emergency response training. The City also participates in the
California Standardized Emergency Management System (SEMS) program, and FEMA’s National Incident
Management System (NIMS). Volunteer groups such as the Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT), the Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Service (RACES) and the Amateur Radio Emergency
Service (ARES) all participate in emergency response during disasters or emergency situations.
The St. Francis of Assisi Church property is currently served by police and fire services, however, the
project will be reviewed by City and Fire officials to ensure adequate fire service and safety as a result of
project implementation. Moreover, as a standard condition, the project will implement its own emergency
evacuation plan for each applicable area of the project. Regional emergency evacuation routes for the
Coachella Valley include the Interstate 10 freeway and Highway 111. Project implementation is not
expected to interfere with the critical facilities, emergency transportation and circulation, emergency
preparedness coordination. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
g) Less than Significant Impact. The project site, located south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church
building, west of Highway 111 and east of the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. Currently, the project
property operates as paved overflow parking. Existing land uses that surround the project includes St.
Francis of Assisi Catholic Church and parking lot to the north, followed by a low-density residential
community, a paved parking lot, followed by Highway 111 and commercial uses to the east, vacant open
space (designated as low density residential) to the south, and open space and the Santa Rosa Mountains to
the west. According to CALFIRE’s Fire Hazard Severity Zones in State Responsible Areas Map, the project
site is not located in a Moderate, High, or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone. In addition, CALFIRE’s
Very Fire Hazard Severity Zone (VHFHSZ) in Locally Responsible Areas (LRAs) Map indicates that the
project is located in a Local, State/Federal non-VHFHSZ area. Therefore, impacts of exposing people or
structures to a significant risk involving wildland fires are expected to be less than significant.
Mitigation: None
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10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY --
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
degrade surface or ground water quality?
b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge
such that the project may impede sustainable
groundwater management of the basin?
c) Substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of
the site or area, including through the alteration of the
course of a stream or river or through the addition of
impervious surfaces, in a manner, which would result
in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site?
i) result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or
off-site;
ii) substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would result in
flooding on- or off-site;
iii) create or contribute runoff water which would
exceed the capacity of existing or planned
stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial
additional sources of polluted runoff; or
iv) impede or redirect flood flows?
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk
release of pollutants due to project inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a
water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater
management plan?
Sources: Flood Insurance Rate Map # 06065C2233H, Federal Emergency Management Agency, Effective August 28, 2008;
Water Quality Control Plan for the Colorado River Basin Region, January 2019; 2020 Coachella Valley Regional Urban Water
Management Plan, June 2021; Preliminary Hydrology and Hydraulics Report for St. Francis of Assisi Church Expansion,
February 2020; Project Specific Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) for St. Francis of Assisi Church Expansion,
February 2020.
Setting:
Hydrology and Water Quality Fundamentals and Relevant Regulatory Framework:
Hydrology refers to the occurrence, distribution, and movement of surface water, including water found in rivers
and stormwater drainage systems. Stormwater particularly refers to the surface runoff and drainage resulting from
rain events. Stormwater runoff and surface drainage patterns are determined by the soil conditions, topography, and
associated gradients of the land. Surface water quality refers to selected physical, chemical, or biological conditions
found in stormwater in relation to existing standards. Groundwater is the water found underground in the voids in
soil, sand, and rock. It is stored in and moves slowly through aquifers. Groundwater supplies are naturally
replenished, or recharged, by precipitation that seeps into the land’s surface and artificial replenishment efforts by
local water agencies.
The Clean Water Act (CWA) of 1972 was enacted to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological
integrity of the nation’s waters by regulating the discharge of pollutants to waters of the U.S. from point sources.
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) was enacted as a program under the CWA to
regulate non-point source discharges from urban land runoff and other diffused sources that were also deemed to
contribute to runoff pollution. Under CWA, the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) delegated the NPDES
program responsibility to various state, tribal, and territorial governments, enabling them to perform many of the
permitting, administrative, and enforcement aspects of the program. California is a delegated NPDES state and has
authority to administer the NPDES program within its limits.
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The Porter-Cologne Water Quality Control Act (California Water Code section 13000 et seq.) is the principal law
governing water quality regulation for surface waters in California, thus effectuating the delegated provisions of the
federal CWA and its NPDES program. It has set forth a comprehensive program to protect water quality and the
beneficial uses applicable to surface waters, wetlands, and ground water and to point and nonpoint sources of
pollution. The Porter-Cologne Act establishes that, as a matter of policy, all the waters of the State shall be protected;
all activities and factors affecting the quality of water shall be regulated to attain the highest water quality within
reason; and that the state must be prepared to exercise its full power and jurisdiction to protect the quality of water
in the state from degradation. The Porter-Cologne Act established the State Water Resources Control Board
(SWRCB) and nine California Regional Water Quality Control Boards (RWQCBs), including Region 7, Colorado
River Basin Regional Water Quality Control Board, which has jurisdiction in the City of La Quinta and project site.
Under this framework, the Colorado River Basin Water Quality Control Plan (Basin Plan) serves as the guiding
document prepared, adopted, and maintained to identify the existing and potential beneficial uses of waters of the
State and establish water quality objectives to protect these uses. It is worth noting that as defined in Section 13374
of the California Water Code (CWC), the term "Waste Discharge Requirements” (WDRs) is equivalent of the term
"permits” and is therefore attained through a regulatory compliance process. Compliance with WDRs is achieved
through the appropriate permit registration process under the applicable National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) programs described later in this section.
At the regional level, the project is located within the Whitewater River Watershed, which is an arid desert region
encompassing approximately 1,645 square miles. Within this watershed, an area of approximately 367 square miles
(22 percent) is regulated under the established Whitewater River Region Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System
Permit (MS4 Permit). The Riverside County Flood Control and Water Conservation District (RCFC&WCD),
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), and the incorporated Coachella Valley cities, including La Quinta, have
joint permittee responsibility for coordinating the regional MS4 Permit compliance programs and other activities
aimed at reducing potential pollutants in urban runoff from land development construction, municipal, commercial,
and industrial areas to the maximum extent possible. These public entities are generally in charge of stormwater
management plan approvals and enforcement within their jurisdiction. At the City level, hydrology and stormwater
standards required for the control of drainage and floodwater flows are established in Section 13.24.120 (A) of the
La Quinta Municipal Code and in La Quinta Engineering Bulletin #06-16 (Hydrology and Hydraulic Report Criteria
for Storm Drain Systems). The City’s stormwater regulations are designed to align with the MS4, NPDES, and
CWA programs respectively. The City’s engineering review process ensures that improvement plans are reviewed
for compliance with the City’s requirements pertaining to grading, hydrology, and stormwater management prior
to issuance of grading permits.
Existing Drainage Conditions:
The project site involves partially improved land generally located south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi worship
center and west of its primary parking lot. In its existing condition, northernmost portion of the project site is a
paved parking lot, followed by an unpaved overflow parking area toward the center of the site and a vacant area at
the southwest portion. The unpaved parking lot area is absent of any formal storm drain improvements other than
the graded slopes generally directed toward the primary paved parking lot. The project site is part of a larger area
deemed tributary to one existing surface retention basin located southeast of the primary parking lot. According to
the hydrology report, the existing retention facility is a landscaped basin with 3-to-1 side slopes, a design depth of
12 feet, and volumetric capacity of 4.8 acre-feet (AF), which is equivalent to approximately 209,088 cubic feet. The
existing tributary stormwater runoff volume to the basin resulting from the controlling 100-year, 24-hour storm
event is calculated at 4.22 AF, which occupies a stormwater depth of 11.2 feet out of the 12-foot basin design depth.
After accounting for the existing drainage conditions, the retention facility is deemed to have a surplus capacity of
0.58 AF. The existing retention basin also includes two drywell facilities, which are typically implemented to accept
and infiltrate low-flow runoff volume. As a result, since the project site is part of the larger existing tributary area
to the receiving retention basin, it is deemed to be accounted for in the existing hydrologic conditions. The receiving
basin is privately operated and maintained by the project proponent.
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a) Less than Significant Impact. During construction and life of the project (operation) the proposed
development will be required to comply with CWA, NPDES, state, and local regulations designed to
prevent violations or impacts to surface water quality standards and waste discharge requirements pertinent
to surface or ground water quality. As explained below, this is achieved through the preparation of
applicable compliance plans and permit registration documents that must obtain agency approval prior to
issuance of a grading permit and ground disturbance. As proposed, the project does not seek any permitting
concessions that would vary from the established requirements.
During the period of construction, the project proponent must comply with the State’s most current NPDES
Construction General Permit (CGP), Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ, as amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and
2012-006-DWQ. Compliance with the CGP requires the preparation of a Notice of Intent (NOI) and a
project-specific Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP), designed to prevent potential adverse
impacts to surface water quality, including erosion and siltation, during the period of construction. The NOI
and SWPPP are submitted to the State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) for approval and permit
coverage. The SWPPP a site-specific compliance plan required to identify a strategy of storm water Best
Management Practices (BMPs) in accordance with Section XIV (SWPPP Requirements) of the CGP. Storm
water BMPs refer to a schedule of activities, prohibitions, practices, maintenance procedures, and other
management practices to avoid, eliminate, or reduce the pollution of the receiving waters, primarily focused
on preventing erosion, siltation, illicit discharge, and contamination. The SWPPP will include such
measures as erosion control, sediment control, storm drain inlet protection, proper waste management and
pollution prevention. The SWPPP must be prepared concurrently with final engineering design and must
meet all elements of the City of La Quinta Public Works Department – SWPPP (Erosion Control) Review
Checklist prior to grading permit issuance. The City’s review and approval process ensures that all
responsible parties and compliance plan elements are properly demonstrated. Compliance of this plan
during construction will be regulated and enforced as part of the local agency site inspection protocols.
During construction, the project will also be required to comply with South Coast Air Quality Management
District’s (SCAQMD) Rule 403 and 403.1 and the City’s Fugitive Dust Control Regulations (Chapter 6.16
– Fugitive Dust Control). Implementation of Fugitive Dust Control Plan primarily pertains to air quality,
but also supports water quality protection through the requirement of soil stabilization measures that also
prevent sediment erosion and track-out. The concurrent deployment of the required SWPPP and Dust
Control Plan plans will prevent the potential construction-related impacts to water quality, including erosion
and siltation, at the site and its surroundings, therefore, resulting in less than significant impact.
During the life of the project (operation), the project proponent is required to implement an approved Water
Quality Management Plan (WQMP) to comply with the most current standards of the Whitewater River
Region Water Quality Management Plan for Urban Runoff and the Whitewater River Watershed MS4
Permit. A Project Specific WQMP has been prepared for this project in order to meet the City’s engineering
approval requirements. The WQMP takes into account the existing and proposed drainage conditions based
on the project specific hydrology report and improvement plans (precise grading).
As currently written, the WQMP approach relies on the local retention requirements and existing facilities
as the primary basis for MS4 compliance. Since the project site is part of the existing tributary area to the
existing basin that is privately maintained by the project applicant, the WQMP analyses how the existing
basin will accommodate the incremental increase in stormwater runoff resulting from the new impervious
ground cover (buildings, parking lots, hardscape). As previously introduced, the existing retention basin
has a design depth of 12 feet and volumetric capacity of 4.8 acre-feet (AF) with a surplus capacity in terms
of depth and volume. The WQMP and Hydrology reports conclude that the increase in impervious ground
cover resulting from the project is expected to result in an incremental increase in runoff of 0.28 AF during
the worst-case 100-year, 24-hour storm event. Therefore, with project implementation, the total combined
runoff volume to the surface basin will increase to 4.5 AF, which is still below the existing basin capacity
of 4.8 AF. The incremental increase in stormwater runoff volume represents a stormwater surface depth
increase of 0.4 feet (from 11.2 to 11.6 feet) in the existing basin, therefore not expected to result in any
physical depth exceedances. As a result, project runoff will be completely contained within the project
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proponent’s facilities and will not result in discharge capable of resulting in downstream hydrologic
modifications or a contribution of urban runoff pollutants that would affect surface water quality. As a
requirement, all elements of the WQMP implementation, including maintenance, must be documented
during the life of the project. The project’s engineering plans, hydrology report, and WQMP will be subject
to City review and approval to validate MS4 compliance.
In summary, during construction and operation, project implementation will require plan-based compliance
with CWA, NPDES, and local regulations to prevent impacts to water quality standards and the beneficial
uses assigned to local receiving waters. As proposed, through the use of existing properly sized retention
facilities, the stormwater capture and management strategy for project runoff will not result in waste
discharge violations. Less than significant impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. The project site and entire City of La Quinta are located within the
domestic water service area of Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), which covers approximately
1,000 square miles, serving approximately 110,000 homes and businesses. The Coachella Valley
Groundwater Basin is the primary groundwater source for the project region’s domestic water purveyors,
including CVWD. Based on the California Department of Water Resources (DWR), the Coachella Valley
Groundwater Basin has an approximate storage capacity of 39.2 million acre-feet (AF) of water within the
upper 1,000 feet and is divided into four subbasins: Indio, Mission Creek, Desert Hot Springs, and San
Gorgonio. The project site is specifically underlain by the Indio Subbasin, which is also known as the
Whitewater River Subbasin. DWR has estimated that the Indio Subbasin contains approximately 29.8
million AF of water in the first 1,000 feet below the ground surface, representing approximately 76 percent
of the total groundwater in the Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin.
In 2002, CVWD developed the 2002 Coachella Valley Groundwater Management Plan in collaboration
with other local stakeholders with a focus on reducing overdraft, preventing groundwater level decline,
protecting groundwater quality, and preventing land subsidence. In 2010, the 2010 Coachella Valley
Groundwater Management Plan Update was prepared to document the accomplishments in reducing
overdraft and address changed conditions since 2002.
In 2014, the California Legislature signed a three-bill legislative package into law, collectively known as
the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA), allowing local agencies to manage groundwater
resources in a sustainable manner. SGMA required that a Groundwater Sustainability Plan (GSP) or
Alternative Plan to a GSP (Alternative Plan) be adopted for basins and subbasins designated by the DWR
as medium- and high-priority basins. Basin prioritization is based on a variety of factors such as population,
number of wells, and other information determined to be relevant by DWR. The Indio Subbasin was
designated as a medium-priority subbasin by DWR.
CVWD, Coachella Water Authority (CWA), Desert Water Agency (DWA), and Indio Water Authority
(IWA) collectively represent the Indio Subbasin Groundwater Sustainability Agencies (GSAs). In January
2017, the GSAs submitted to DWR the 2010 Coachella Valley Water Management Plan (2010 CVWMP),
accompanied by an Indio Subbasin Bridge Document, as a SGMA-compliant Alternative Plan. On July 17,
2019, DWR approved the Alternative Plan with a requirement to submit an Alternative Plan Update by
January 1, 2022 and every five years thereafter. Based on the Indio Subbasin SGMA documentation, the
combined strategies have resulted in significant groundwater storage increases across the subbasin, thus
allowing the region to comply with the framework for sustainable management.
In 2019, the six urban water suppliers in the Coachella Valley, including CVWD, agreed to collaborate on
the preparation of a 2020 Coachella Valley Regional Urban Water Management Plan (2020 RUWMP) with
regional and individual agency content. The 2020 RUWMP describes the region’s water supplies and
anticipated demands through 2045, along with each agency’s programs to encourage efficient water use.
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In June of 2021 CVWD’s Water Shortage Contingency Plan (WSCP) was prepared to outline each agency’s
actions that could be taken during a water shortage to reduce demands. According to the WSCP, drought
conditions are not expected to affect CVWD’s Colorado River water supply due to the agency’s high
priority allocation. Colorado River water is not a direct source of urban water supply; it is used for
groundwater replenishment and non-potable uses. If a reduction in Colorado River water supply occurred,
CVWD would initially reduce deliveries to groundwater replenishment projects. Drought conditions in the
Sierra Nevada would have an effect on the SWP water allocation; thus reducing the SWP Exchange water
received by CVWD and DWA. This water is used for replenishment of the groundwater basin and is not a
direct source of urban water supply. Consequently, water use restrictions due to drought involving the SWP
water supply would likely be implemented only as a result of a prolonged drought. During dry periods when
less imported water is available, groundwater production is expected to exceed the amount of recharge, and
the volume in storage will be reduced. However, these reductions can be reversed in years when additional
imported water is available. The Coachella Valley Groundwater Basin is deemed to be a large basin which
provides a buffer during dry periods, thus allowing the agencies to develop long-term plans and programs
to manage regional water supplies.
CVWD collaborates with the operation and maintenance of three replenishment facilities serving the Indio
Subbasin: Whitewater River Groundwater Replenishment Facility, the Thomas E. Levy Groundwater
Replenishment Facility, and the Palm Desert Groundwater Replenishment Facility. Artificial
replenishment, or recharge, is recognized by the water districts as one of the most effective methods
available for preserving local groundwater supplies, reversing aquifer overdraft and meeting demand by
domestic consumers. According to the CVWD web site on Groundwater Replenishment and Imported
Water, local agencies have percolated over 650 billion gallons of water back into the aquifer. In the central
part of the Coachella Valley, groundwater recharge is provided by the recently constructed first phase of
the Palm Desert Groundwater Replenishment Facility, operated by CVWD. According to the CVWD web
site, this facility is expected to add up to 25,000 acre-feet of Colorado River water annually into the aquifer.
Combined with water conservation and efficiency requirements, individual development projects can
contribute to groundwater sustainability by implementing the required stormwater runoff retention and
infiltration facilities.
The proposed development is deemed consistent with the City’s General Plan land use designation. The
established groundwater replenishment facilities described above for the Indio Subbasin are not located
near the project. Therefore, from the aspect of land use and location, project implementation is not deemed
to be in conflict with any existing or planned groundwater recharge facility or associated infrastructure.
The proposed parish facilities and associated parking lot and landscaping improvements are expected to
consume water. The proposed operation will be expected to implement water conservation measures,
including the use of low-flow plumbing fixtures, drought-tolerant (native) outdoor landscaping, and water-
efficient irrigation systems. As a standard condition for service connections, the project will be expected to
furnish the appropriate payment to CVWD based on the meter size, ongoing flow charges, agency fees, and
groundwater recharge fees.
Furthermore, the site plan will continue to utilize the existing infiltration basin that is sized to contain and
infiltrate the existing drainage conditions and the incremental increases in runoff resulting from the
proposed facilities. As a function of the WQMP, operation of the development will include the required
non-structural and structural pollution source control measures that work toward the protection of
groundwater quality during the life of the project and under the project owner’s responsibility. Non-
structural source control measures consist of site operations, activities, and/or programs to be finalized in
the WQMP and implemented by the project operator to educate site managers, employees, and residents to
prevent potential pollutants from being produced, coming into contact with the storm drain system, and
impacting groundwater. Structural source control measures consist of physical facility design standards to
prevent direct contact between potential pollutants and stormwater runoff. The project’s structural measures
will consist of stormwater screening and infiltration. Specifically, project runoff first be conveyed to a
proposed storm drain inlet equipped with a filter insert designed to provide physical screening of gross
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solids, trash, and debris with the use of a filter media and removal of petroleum hydrocarbons with the use
of a sorbent media. Pre-treated runoff will then be conveyed into the existing retention basin, sized to
infiltrate the required stormwater volume instead of allowing it to leave as runoff, therefore contributing to
the locally accepted groundwater recharge efforts. As previously discussed, the incremental increase in
stormwater runoff resulting from the project will be adequately handled for infiltration in the existing
retention basin, thus contributing toward groundwater recharge instead of producing a condition of urban
runoff discharge. The storm drain and basin system will be privately operated and maintained during the
life of the project per a required WQMP agreement to be entered between the project proponent and the
City. The proposed facilities are therefore not expected to violate or interfere with the groundwater quality.
Regarding ground water quality, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
c) i) Less than Significant Impact. The project setting occurs east of a north-south trending ridge extending
from the Santa Rosa Mountains. Specifically, project site involves partially developed land within the
property boundary corresponding to the existing St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church, being located south
of the existing worship center and west of the primary parking lot. Based on the current USGS National
Hydrography Dataset (NHD) and the historic USGS 7.5-Minute topographic map for La Quinta, California,
the project site and its neighboring conditions are absent of any formally mapped naturally occurring
drainage courses, such as those associated with washes, rivers, or streams. Runoff conditions resulting from
storm events are deemed to follow the existing east-trending elevation gradients.
The existing site condition includes paved parking area at the north-end, an unpaved overflow parking area
in the center, and a vacant portion on the southwest. Based on the project-specific hydrology report, the
local topographic conditions and improvements place the entire project site within a larger drainage
management area tributary to one existing surface retention basin within the project parcel, located
southeast of the primary parking lot. As such, stormwater runoff from all improved and unimproved
portions of the site are designed to drain into the existing retention basin and its corresponding volume has
been accounted for in the existing hydrologic conditions. Since the project site is not fully improved or
stabilized, the manner in which project runoff is conveyed to the existing basin is known to result in
instances of erosion or siltation.
According to the hydrology report, the existing retention facility (privately operated by the project
proponent) is a landscaped basin with 3-to-1 side slopes, a design depth of 12 feet, and volumetric capacity
of 4.8 acre-feet (AF). The existing basin capacity of 4.8 AF is determined adequate to handle the worst-
case stormwater volume generated under the existing conditions (approximately 4.22 AF).
The proposed manner in which project area drainage will be handled is determined by design factors from
the hydrology report, WQMP, and precise grading plans, which in turn must meet the regional MS4 and
local engineering requirements as part of the approval process. The current hydrology, WQMP, and grading
plan documentation indicate that the proposed additions and improvements to the property will continue to
rely on the existing retention basin as the receiving facility for project site stormwater runoff. The existing
surplus capacity of 0.58 AF in the basin will be sufficient to contain the incremental increase in runoff
calculated at 0.28 AF resulting from project implementation through the introduction of impervious
surfaces (building footprints, hardscape, and parking lot pavement). All project-related runoff will be
conveyed along engineered sheet flow or defined conveyances leading to the existing retention basin. This
includes the building, landscaping, and parking lot area runoff. Per the WQMP, all engineered slopes east
and south of the new parking lot area will be stabilized with landscaping and be subject to slope protection
that must be maintained during the life of the project. Existing off-site flows from the hillside area to the
west will continue to be routed toward the existing basin like the existing condition. In doing so, the project
will improve the existing drainage, erosion, and siltation condition associated with the unpaved parking lot
area. Less than significant impacts are anticipated regarding substantial erosion or siltation, on- or off-site.
Mitigation: None
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ii) Less than Significant Impact. According to findings from the project-specific hydrology report and
WQMP, the proposed development will continue to use the existing retention basin, operated by the project
proponent, as the receiving facility for project area runoff. The existing basin has a capacity of 4.8 AF, of
which 0.58 AF are surplus since the controlling 100-year storm event runoff volume conveyed to this
facility is 4.22 AF from the existing condition. The project’s introduction of impervious surfaces in the
form of building footprints, hardscape, and parking lot pavement is expected to result in an incremental
increase in runoff volume of 0.28 AF resulting. In terms of stormwater depth, the project would result in a
potential depth increase of 0.4 feet (from 11.2 to 11.6 feet) within the 12-foot basin design depth. Therefore,
this incremental increase in stormwater runoff will be adequately handled by the existing on-site retention
basin without resulting in exceedances or other forms of runoff contribution capable of resulting in flooding.
Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
iii) Less than Significant Impact. As previously discussed, the project-specific hydrology and WQMP report
findings demonstrate that the existing retention basin within the project property can adequately
accommodate the volumetric stormwater quantity contributed by proposed project condition. The project
would result in an increase in runoff volume of 0.28 AF, contributing to a combined tributary runoff volume
of 4.5 AF that is still within the basin capacity of 4.8 AF. By draining into the privately maintained facility,
the project will prevent any routine contribution of urban runoff quantity into the public storm drain system.
The aspect of stormwater quality will be addressed as a function of the WQMP. Project area drainage will
be conveyed into a proposed storm drain inlet equipped with a filter insert designed to provide physical
screening of gross solids, trash, and debris with the use of a filter fabric and removal of petroleum
hydrocarbons with the use of a sorbent media. Filtered runoff will subsequently be conveyed to the said
retention basin, where the infiltration function will occur. He filter insert and basin will be privately
maintained during the life of the project as a requirement for WQMP approval. Therefore, the proposed
project will not contribute substantial additional sources of polluted runoff into the on-site basin or any
publicly maintained stormwater facility. Less than significant impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
iv) Less than Significant Impact. The project setting occurs at the base of a ridge extending from the Santa
Rosa Mountains. The east-facing hillside occurs west of the project. Based on the current USGS National
Hydrography Dataset (NHD) and the historic USGS 7.5-Minute topographic map for La Quinta, California,
the project site and its neighboring conditions are absent of any formally mapped naturally occurring
drainage courses, such as those associated with washes, rivers, or streams. Runoff conditions resulting from
storm events are deemed to follow the existing east-trending elevation gradients. The proposed building,
parking lot, hardscape and landscaping improvements will occur on a partially developed site. The proposed
grading and hydrology design will allow for project runoff to be properly conveyed to the receiving on-site
retention basin. Existing hillside tributary runoff will be conveyed along a controlled flow line around the
parking lot into existing basin. Therefore, the proposed project will not result in a considerable
modification, impedance, or redirection of flood flows. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
d) Less than significant impact. According to FIRM Panel Number 06065C2233H, effective April 19, 2017,
the entire project is covered by Zone X, a designation that applies to areas of minimal flood hazard.
Therefore, the project site is not considered to be in a floodplain or a special flood hazard area (SFHA).
Moreover, the project is not located near any coastal areas and therefore is not prone to tsunami
hazards. The project is not located near any body of water and therefore is not prone to seismic
seiche hazards. The project’s existing receiving retention basin will capture the tributary runoff
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resulting from the controlling 100-year storm event. The project is not considered prone to
resulting in a release of pollutants due to project inundation. Therefore, less than significant
impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
e) Less than significant impact. As discussed above, the project proponent is required to implement a project-
specific Final WQMP to comply with the most current standards of the Whitewater River Region Water
Quality Management Plan for Urban Runoff, Whitewater River Watershed MS4 Permit. The WQMP, as
described above, includes guidelines for facility maintenance and other operations aimed at complying with
local surface water quality requirements. The WQMP will incorporate grading, hydrology, and other plans
to document the site design and source controls with a required operation and maintenance program to
comply with water quality objectives. Moreover, the project’s storm water retention facilities will ensure
that urban runoff is recharged into the ground via infiltration.
The project’s use of stormwater retention and infiltration through use of the existing basin will contribute
to groundwater recharge in a manner that is consistent with the stormwater capture methods that have been
deemed beneficial to groundwater resources. Therefore, project implementation is not expected to conflict
with the regional groundwater management strategies or with the Indio Subbasin Sustainable Groundwater
Management Plan. Less than significant impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
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11. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would
the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Physically divide an established
community?
b) Cause a significant environmental impact
due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy,
or regulation adopted for the purpose of
avoiding or mitigating an environmental
effect?
Source: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update; La Quinta Municipal Code; State of California Government Code 65915.
Setting:
The project site is designated for Low Density Residential and Open Space land uses. The project is surrounded by
residential, open space, and commercial land uses. Table XI-1 displays the surrounding land uses and zoning
designations in relation to the proposed project.
Table XI-1 Surrounding Land Uses
Land Use Jurisdiction General Plan Zoning Existing Use
North La Quinta LDR RL Existing St. Francis of Assisi Church,
Single Family Residential Neighborhood
South La Quinta LDR RL Vacant Land
East La Quinta CC CC Washington Street, Commercial
West La Quinta OS-N OS Natural Open Space
Low Density Residential (Up to 4 units per acre)
The Low Density Residential designation is appropriate for single family residential development, whether attached
or detached. The density of individual parcels is further refined in the Zoning Ordinance. These lands are typically
developed as subdivisions, country clubs developments, or master planned communities. Clustered housing
projects, providing common area open space, appropriately scaled commercial development serving the project or
amenities are also allowed under this designation, with the approval of a specific plan.
Open Space – Natural
This designation applies to areas of natural open space, whether owned by private parties or public entities. With
the exception of trail or trailhead development, little development is permitted in this designation.
a) No Impact. The project is proposing the construction of a parish hall and administration building associated
with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. Currently, the site operates as overflow parking for the
existing Church located north of the approximately 4.43-acre project site. The project proposes buildings
associated with the operation of the Church and therefore would not divide an established community. No
impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. The project site currently operates as paved parking and overflow parking
associated with the St. Francis of Assisi Church. The project property occupies approximately 4.43 acres
south of the existing Church building (sanctuary) and west of the Church’s parking lot. The project proposes
to develop a parish hall, administration office building, and associated parking.
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The project property previously underwent various entitlements associated with the Church facility. In
2002, the St. Francis of Assisi Church applied for an Environmental Assessment 2002-463, Conditional
Use Permit 2002-463, and Site Development Permit 2002-755 to construct a temporary parking lot. The
temporary parking lot, which was proposed in the project area, would be grass and allow a capacity of 207
vehicles. In 2003, City Council approved the applications for the temporary parking lot. The temporary
grass lot was illuminated with 12-foot-high shoebox lighting fixtures, and utilized telephone poles to
separate vehicles and define the parking area. Years later, the Church applied to construct a permanent
parking lot over the temporary lot. The permanent parking lot would allow 220 paved parking spaces, a
temporary overflow parking lot with a capacity of 134 gravel-surface parking spaces, a retention basin, and
landscaping within the southern portion of the Church site. The completion of the permanent parking lot
would allow a total parking capacity of 532 parking spaces. The plan was approved in 2010.
The project lies within the City of La Quinta’s Low Density Residential General Plan designation, per the
City’s 2035 General Plan Update (GPU). The current zoning designation for the project site is also
designated as Low Density Residential (RL). According to the La Quinta Municipal Code (LQMC) Title
9, Chapter 9.30.030, RL zones provide for the development and preservation of low density neighborhoods
with one- and two-story single family detached dwellings on large or medium size lots and/or, subject to a
specific plan, projects with clustered smaller dwellings, such as one- and two-story single family attached,
townhome or condominium dwellings, with generous open space, however, churches are an allowable use
within this designation with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The RL zone is compatible
with the existing General Plan designation of Low Density Residential. Due to the site’s previous
association with the St. Francis of Assisi Church property, development and operation of the proposed
project will not result in conflicts with any land use plan, policy, or regulation. Less than significant impact.
Mitigation: None
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12. MINERAL RESOURCES -- Would the
project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Result in the loss of availability of a known
mineral resource that would be of value to the
region and the residents of the state?
b) Result in the loss of availability of a locally
important mineral resource recovery site
delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or
other land use plan?
Source: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, 2013; Mineral Resources Land Classification Map.
Setting:
The State of California has recognized the importance of mineral resources for construction materials and other
economic purposes. Mining and extraction of mineral resources continues to be threatened by urbanization and
development in areas where important mineral resources exist. The California Surface Mining and Reclamation Act
of 1975 (SMARA) addresses the loss of regionally significant mineral deposits to urban development.
The Act requires the Department of Conservation to create Production-Consumption Regions which are areas where
significant mineral resources of statewide importance and regional significance are produced and consumed, and a
classification system that identifies lands where significant mineral resource deposits are located. La Quinta is
located in the Palm Springs Production-Consumption Region. The Palm Springs Production-Consumption Region
covers approximately 631 square miles of the Coachella Valley, from near Cabazon to Thermal. Small portions of
southern La Quinta, including lands south of Avenue 60, are located outside the Palm Springs Production-
Consumption Region. Lands within the Production-Consumption Region are classified according to the presence
of valuable mineral resources. La Quinta has two Mineral Resource Zones, MRZ-1 and MRZ-3. MRZ-1 are areas
where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that little
likelihood exists for their presence. MRZ-3 are areas containing known or inferred mineral deposits, the significance
of which cannot be evaluated from available data.
a,b) No Impact. The mineral resources that form the Coachella Valley’s desert floor primarily consists of sand,
gravel (aggregate) and other important mineral deposits that have eroded from the surrounding mountains
and hills. To ensure the protection of important mineral resources, the SMARA developed mineral land
classification maps and reports to identify the presence or absence of suitable sources of aggregate (sand,
gravel or stone deposits), and organize them into Mineral Resource Zones. According to a Classification
Map, the approximately 4.43-acre project site is designated within Mineral Resource Zone 1 (MRZ-1). This
specific zone designates areas where geologic information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are
present or likely to be present.
Similar to the Mineral Resources Land Classification Map, the La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update also
acknowledges the lack of significant mineral resources in their Mineral Resource Zone Map (Exhibit III-
1). According to this map, there is no evidence proving that a significant mineral deposit is present at the
project site. The area west of the project boundary, however, includes the slopes of the Santa Rosa
Mountains, which is designated as an MRZ-3 zone. MRZ-3 zones are areas containing known or inferred
mineral occurrences of undetermined significant mineral resources. Construction activities and project
operation is not anticipated to disturb the west-lying property.
Moreover, the project site has been previously developed as a temporary grass parking lot, and then a paved
parking lot associated with the St. Francis of Assisi Church facility. Conclusively, the project site is not
recognized as a mineral resource recovery site delineated in the City of La Quinta 2035 GPU or the resource
maps prepared pursuant to SMARA. No impacts are expected as a result of project implementation.
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Mitigation: None
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13. NOISE -- Would the project result in:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Generation of a substantial temporary or
permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the
vicinity of the project in excess of standards
established in the local general plan or noise
ordinance, or applicable standards of other
agencies?
b) Generation of excessive groundborne vibration
or groundborne noise levels?
c) For a project located within the vicinity of a
private airstrip or an airport land use plan or,
where such a plan has not been adopted, within
two miles of a public airport or public use airport,
would the project expose people residing or
working in the project area to excessive noise
levels?
Source: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, 2013; City of La Quinta General Plan Technical Noise Study, Urban Crossroads,
Inc., 2011; La Quinta Municipal Code.
Setting:
Noise is simply defined as “unwanted sound.” Sound becomes unwanted when it interferes with normal activities,
when it causes actual physical harm or when it has adverse effects on health. Noise is measured on a logarithmic
scale of sound pressure level known as a decibel (dB). A-weighted decibels (dBA) approximate the subjective
response of the human ear to broad frequency noise source by discriminating against very low and very high
frequencies of the audible spectrum. They are adjusted to reflect only those frequencies which are audible to the
human ear.
Environmental noise descriptors are generally based on averages, rather than instantaneous, noise levels. The most
commonly used figure is the equivalent level (Leq). Equivalent sound levels are not measured directly but are
calculated from sound pressure levels typically measured in dBA. The Leq represents a steady state sound level
containing the same total energy as a time varying signal over a given sample period and is commonly used to
describe the “average” noise levels within the environment.
Peak hour or average noise levels, while useful, do not completely describe a given noise environment. Noise levels
lower than peak hour may be disturbing if they occur during times when quiet is most desirable, namely evening
and nighttime (sleeping) hours. To account for this, the Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) is utilized.
The CNEL is the weighted average of the intensity of a sound, with corrections for time of day and averaged over
24 hours. The time of day corrections require the addition of 5 decibels to dBA Leq sound levels in the evening
from 7:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m., and the addition of 10 decibels to dBA Leq sound levels at night between 10:00 p.m.
to 7:00 a.m. These additions are made to account for the noise sensitive time periods during the evening and night
hours when sound appears louder. CNEL does not represent the actual sound level heard at any time, but rather
represents the total sound exposure. The City of La Quinta relies on the 24-hour CNEL level to assess land use
compatibility with noise sources.
Noise transmission is affected by a variety of factors such as temperature, wind speed, wind direction, and the type
of ground surface. Sound intensity reduced by surfaces, walls, vegetation or other material is called attenuation.
Soft ground surfaces tend to reduce sound levels better than hard surfaces. A drop-off rate of 4.5 dBA per doubling
of distance is typical across soft ground. In comparison, hard ground, such as concrete, stone, and hard packed earth
reduce sound by 3.0 dBA per doubling distance. Effective noise barriers, such as walls or berms, can help reduce
noise levels by 10-15 decibels. These types of barriers can provide relief from traffic noise. Vegetation, on the other
hand, is less effective for reducing noise levels. In general, walls need to be high enough and long enough to block
the view of a road to function as a noise barrier.
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To limit population exposure to physically and/or psychologically damaging and intrusive noise levels, the federal
government, the State of California, county governments, and most municipalities in California have established
standards and ordinances to control noise. In most areas, automobile and truck traffic is the major source of
environmental noise. Traffic activity generally produces an average sound level that remains constant with time.
Air and rail traffic and commercial and industrial activities are also major sources of noise in some areas. Federal,
state and local agencies regulate different aspects of environmental noise, where federal and state agencies generally
set noise standards for mobile sources such as aircraft and motor vehicles, while regulation of stationary sources is
left to local agencies.
According to the Federal Transit Administration’s (FTA) Transit Noise Impact and Vibration Assessment, vibration
is the periodic oscillation of a medium or object. The rumbling sound caused by the vibration of room surfaces is
called structure-borne noise. Sources of ground-borne vibrations include natural phenomena (e.g., earthquakes,
volcanic eruptions, sea waves, landslides) or human-made causes (e.g., explosions, machinery, traffic, trains,
construction equipment). Vibration sources may be continuous, such as factory machinery, or transient, such as
explosions. As is the case with airborne sound, ground-borne vibrations may be described by amplitude and
frequency.
Vibration is quantified by various methods. The peak particle velocity (PPV) is defined as the maximum
instantaneous peak of the vibration signal. The PPV is most frequently used to describe vibration impacts to
buildings but is not always suitable for evaluating human response (annoyance) because it takes time for the human
body to respond to vibration signals. Instead, the human body responds to average vibration amplitude often
described as the root mean squared (RMS). The RMS amplitude is the average of the squared amplitude of the
signal and is most frequently used to describe the effect of vibration on the human body. RMS is commonly
measured by Decibel notation (VdB), which serves reduce the range of numbers used to describe human response
to vibration. Typically, ground-borne vibration generated by man-made activities attenuates rapidly with distance
from the source of the vibration. Sensitive receivers for vibration include structures (especially older masonry
structures), people (i.e. residents, the elderly and sick), and vibration-sensitive equipment and/or activities.
a) Less than Significant Impact. The project proposes a parish hall, administration office building and
associated parking on approximately 4.43 acres south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church in the
City of La Quinta. Currently, the project site operates as an overflow parking lot for the existing church,
providing 219 paved and unpaved parking stalls. Analysis of project related noise impacts is based on traffic
noise (on- and off-site), operational noise, and construction noise. Further discussion provided below.
Traffic Noise
As previously stated, the project proposes the development and operation of a parish hall, administration
offices, and parking spaces associated with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. The number of seats
and the number of on-site parking spaces will not increase with the project improvements. With the addition
of new enclosed meeting spaces and offices, existing staff and activities will transfer from outside
communal areas to the new and improved facilities. Paved parking surfaces will replace the existing dirt
parking lot. By providing paved parking and updated administrative and meeting spaces, the existing
congregation will be better served. These improvements are not intended to add to the congregation, visitor,
or staff numbers. Operations will not change and operating hours are anticipated to remain the same.
Classrooms and administrative functions will be moved from outdated facilities to new improved spaces.
Seating capacity and parking capacity of the project will remain unchanged. Therefore, off-site traffic
conditions (i.e., trips to and from the site) will not change. Additionally, on-site traffic conditions will not
change since growth of church attendees is not anticipated. Impacts will be less than significant.
Operational Noise
The project proposes additional church buildings consisting of a parish hall and administration offices to
operate with the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church sanctuary, located north of the proposed project.
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Operation of the project is anticipated to result in similar uses as the existing Church facility. According to
Table IV-3 (Land Use Compatibility for Community Noise Environments), acceptable noise levels for
church uses are between 50 to 65 dBA CNEL, while conditionally acceptable noise levels for churches are
between 60 to 65 dBA CNEL.
The project proposes to operate similarly to the existing church facility, apart from providing indoor office
spaces and meeting areas. Additionally, the proposed project site improvements are not intended to result
in an increased number of members, visitors, or staff to the site. Therefore, operation of the proposed project
would result in similar noise levels compared to the existing facility and impacts will be less than
significant.
Construction Noise
Construction of the proposed project would likely result in short-term noise associated with construction
activities. Noise generated by the project construction equipment will include a combination of trucks,
power tools, concrete mixers, and portable generators that when combined can reach high levels. The
number and mix of construction equipment are expected to occur in the following stages: site preparation,
grading, building construction, paving, and architectural coating.
Development of the proposed project will occur immediately south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi
Church. However, the project is an expansion of the church facility, therefore, construction-related noise
impacts are anticipated to be less than significant when observed from the Church. Therefore, the closest
off-site sensitive receptor to the project site includes a residential community located approximately 420
feet north of the project. Areas west of the project site are characterized by open space lands associated
with the Santa Rosa Mountains foothills, while areas immediately south of the project are vacant and
undeveloped. Areas east of the project site is occupied by a paved parking lot associated with the Church
facility and Washington Street.
Per the Technical Noise Report completed for the La Quinta General Plan, the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) compiled noise levels generated by specific types of construction equipment.
Noise levels generated by heavy construction equipment can range from approximately 68 dBA to over 100
dBA when measured at 50 feet. However, the noise levels would diminish rapidly with distance from the
construction site at a rate of approximately 6 dBA per doubling of distance. For example, a noise level of
68 dBA measured at approximately 50 feet from the noise source to the receptor, would be reduced to 62
dBA at 100 feet from the source to the receptor, and would be further reduced by another 6 dBA to 56 dBA
at 200 feet from the noise source to the receptor.
Based on the EPA’s typical noise construction noise levels table (included below for reference), pile drivers
result in the highest noise levels, reaching 100 dBA at 50 feet. The use of pile drivers is not proposed for
the project, however, it is used as an example. If this piece of equipment was used at the project site, the
noise level perceived by the closest off-site sensitive receptor north of the project would be approximately
82 dBA (based on the reduction of 6 dBA per doubling distance).
In order to reduce potential noise levels from construction of the project site, the City of La Quinta limits
the hours in which construction activities are permissible. Section 6.08.050 of the City’s Noise Ordinance
limits construction to the following hours:
October 1st through April 30th
Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holidays: None
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May 1st through September 30th
Monday – Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holidays: None
Additionally, the following noise reduction practices should be employed as applicable for all projects
containing construction activities, including the proposed project, as determined by the Noise Report
generated for the La Quinta General Plan:
- During all excavation and grading, the construction contractors shall equip all construction equipment,
fixed or mobile, with properly operating and maintained mufflers, consistent with manufacturers’
standards. The construction contractor shall place all stationary construction equipment so that emitted
noise is directed away from the noise sensitive receptors.
- The construction contractor shall locate equipment staging in areas that will create the greatest distance
between construction-related noise sources and noise sensitive receptors during all project construction.
- The construction contractor shall limit all construction-related activities that would result in high noise
levels, according to the construction hours of the City.
- Finally, the construction contractor shall limit haul truck deliveries to the same hours specified for
construction equipment. To the extent feasible, haul routes shall not pass sensitive land uses or
residential dwellings.
These are considered standard conditions of new construction in the City. Therefore, with the
implementation of the above conditions, project-related off-site traffic, on-site traffic, operational and
construction noise created by the project are anticipated to be less than significant.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. Vibration is the periodic oscillation of a medium or object. The rumbling
sound caused by the vibration of room surfaces is called structure-borne noise. Sources of ground-borne
vibrations include natural phenomena (e.g., earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, sea waves, landslides) or
human-made causes (e.g., explosions, machinery, traffic, trains, construction equipment). Vibration sources
may be continuous, such as factory machinery, or transient, such as explosions. As is the case with airborne
sound, ground-borne vibrations may be described by amplitude and frequency.
Per the Noise Report generated for the La Quinta General Plan (LQGP) and Environmental Impact Report
(EIR), potential ground-borne vibration is associated with construction activities and vehicular traffic.
Construction vibration is generally associated with pile driving and rock blasting, neither of which will
occur at the project site. Occasionally large bulldozers and loaded trucks can cause perceptible vibration
levels at close proximity. Construction activity can result in varying degrees of groundborne vibration,
depending on the equipment and methods used, distance to the affected structures and soil type. The effects
of groundborne vibration are not generally limited to movement of building floors, rattling of windows and
objects, and rumbling sounds, resulting in annoyance.
In general, earth-borne vibrations associated with transportation and construction activities attenuate
rapidly with distance from the source. Based on Caltrans data, vibration of trucks is characterized by peaks
considerably high than those generated by automobiles. These peaks often last a fraction of a second and
drop off fast with distance. Caltrans’ truck vibration data suggests that at distances greater than 130 feet
from the road the vibration levels are below the threshold of perception. The closest off-site use to the
proposed project is the residential community north of the project site, situated approximately 420 feet from
the project. Therefore, construction trucks traveling to the project site along Washington Street during
construction of the project may result in brief vibrations perceived by the residents of the homes adjacent
to Washington Street. Vibrations from onsite equipment are not anticipated to impact surrounding offsite
uses since the project is separated by sensitive receptors by over 400 feet.
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To further minimize the perceived vibration impacts, the City of La Quinta limits the exposure of noise
sensitive land uses to construction areas by permitting construction activities to occur only during
construction hours established by Section 6.08.050 of the City’s Noise Ordinance. The allowable
construction hours are provided in the table below.
October 1st through April 30th
Monday – Friday: 7:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holidays: None
May 1st through September 30th
Monday – Friday: 6:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Sunday and Holidays: None
After construction, the nature of the proposed expansion of the church facility would not typically involve
activities expected to generate excessive vibration or ground borne noise. All activities within the project
will be required to adhere to the City’s Noise Ordinance. Impacts of project-related vibration will be less
than significant.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. The project site is located approximately 3.0 miles southwest of the closest
airport, the Bermuda Dunes Airport. The project does not lie within the airport’s 70, 65 and 60 CNEL noise
contours or within the airport’s Land Use Plan area. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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14. POPULATION AND HOUSING –
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Induce substantial unplanned population
growth in an area, either directly (for example, by
proposing new homes and businesses) or
indirectly (for example, through extension of
roads or other infrastructure)?
b) Displace substantial numbers of existing
people or housing, necessitating the construction
of replacement housing elsewhere?
Sources: La Quinta General Plan 2035, and 2014-2021 Housing Element; SCAG Local Profile 2018, Housing Type by Units:
2018. California Department of Finance, Population and Housing Estimates for Cities, Counties, and the State 1990-2000 and
2011-2021.
Setting:
According to the Department of Finance (DOF), the City of La Quinta had a population of 37,467 people in 2010.
The City’s population increased approximately 10.1 percent in 2021, for a population of 41,247 people. The City
of La Quinta’s population accounts for approximately 1.66 percent of the County of Riverside’s total population.
The median age in the City was 45.6 in 2010 (US Census data). The most recent Census data (2019) shows the
median age in the City to be 48, compared to the median age in Riverside County (35) and the Nation (38).
Additionally, the number of jobs in 2017 in La Quinta was 16,848; an approximately 101 percent increase in jobs
since 2010 (SCAG).
a) No Impact. The proposed project involves the construction and operation of a parish hall, administration
offices, and parking spaces on approximately 4.43 acres of the St. Francis of Assisi Church in the City of
La Quinta. The project’s existing General Plan land use and zoning designation of Low Density Residential
(RL) allows up to 4 dwelling units per acre (du/ac). Churches are allowable uses within RL designations
with the approval of a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). The project site has operated as church use due to
its association with the existing Church facility, which main building is located north of the site, and
associated parking lot is located east of the project site.
The development of the proposed buildings is not intended to increase members or participants currently
attending the Church. The proposed buildings are intended to accommodate meetings currently held in
inadequate indoor spaces, outdoor gardens and courtyards onsite. Additionally, the number of parking
spaces in the Church parking lot is intended to stay the same. Since the proposed project is not intended to
increase the number of members of the Church, the proposed project would not induce unplanned direct or
indirect population growth.
Furthermore, the project site is within an area that is served by existing infrastructure, public services and
utilities, due to the existing urban context that surrounds the project site. As a result, the project would not
cause potential growth inducing effects by extending utilities into an undeveloped area.
Therefore, approval and development of the proposed project is not expected to increase population growth
in the City. No impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
b) No Impact. The project site currently operates as paved and unpaved, overflow parking lot associated with
the St. Francis of Assisi Church. The project proposes the development of a parish hall, administration
buildings, and parking spaces as an extension to the existing Church facility. Currently, the project site does
not provide residential housing. Therefore, development of the project site would not displace substantial
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numbers of existing housing or people necessitating the construction of replacement housing. No impacts
are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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15. PUBLIC SERVICES – Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Would the project result in substantial adverse
physical impacts associated with the provision of
new or physically altered governmental facilities,
need for new or physically altered governmental
facilities, the construction of which could cause
significant environmental impacts, in order to
maintain acceptable service ratios, response times
or other performance objectives for any of the
public services:
Fire protection?
Police protection?
Schools?
Parks?
Other public facilities?
Sources: La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update, 2013; La Quinta 2035 General Plan Update Environmental Impact Report,
2013; Desert Sands Unified School District website.
Setting:
Fire:
The Riverside County Fire Department (RCFD), under contract with the City of La Quinta, provides 24-hour fire
protection and emergency medical services to the City. There are three City-owned fire stations within the City
of La Quinta, Fire Station 32, Station 70 and Station 93. Each station is staffed with full-time paid and volunteer
firefighters.
Fire Station 32 is located at 78111 Avenue 52 and is approximately 2.9 miles from the proposed project site. This
stations equipment includes a primary and reserve fire engine, volunteer squad, and rescue vehicles.
Fire Station 70 is located at 54001 Madison Street and is approximately 6 miles from the project site. This station
is equipped with a primary engine, a brush fire engine, and a volunteer squad.
Fire Station 93 located at 44-555 Adams Street is located approximately 2 miles from the proposed project site
and is equipped with a primary engine and a reserve engine.
The Riverside County Fire Department operates under a Regional Fire Protection Program, which allows all of
its fire stations to provide support as needed regardless of jurisdictional boundaries. Per the La Quinta 2035
General Plan EIR, the average response times are between 5 and 7 minutes.
Police:
Law enforcement services are provided to the City of La Quinta through a contractual agreement with Riverside
County Sheriff’s Department. The Sheriff’s department provides 24-hour municipal police services associated
with a City police department. The La Quinta police department operates out of the Thermal Station located at
86625 Airport Boulevard. There is also a Civic Center Community Policing Office, located at 78-495 Calle
Tampico.
The Thermal station is approximately 12 miles from the project site. The City’s police department patrols 7 days
a week, 365 days a year and 24-hours a day. The department serves a population of approximately 41,204 residents
and patrols over 33 square miles. The City also employs volunteers that assist the Sheriff’s Department, through
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a program known as “Citizens on Patrol” (COP). They are trained by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department
and assist and support the deputies of the La Quinta Police Department.
Per the 2035 General Plan EIR (adopted in 2013), the City has 51 sworn officers and 5 community service officers.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department maintains a staffing ratio of 1.23 officers per 1,000 residents which
is well above the standard and accepted ratio of one officer per 1,000 residents.
Schools:
The City of La Quinta is served by two school districts; Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) and
Coachella Valley Unified School District (CVUSD). DSUSD serves the portion of the City west of Jefferson
Street and north of Avenue 48, which includes the northern Sphere of Influence. CVUSD boundaries include the
areas of Jefferson Street and east of Avenue 48. The proposed project site is within the boundary of the DSUSD;
Harry S. Truman Elementary is the closest school to the proposed project and is 2.6 miles away. La Quinta Middle
School is approximately 2.5 miles away and La Quinta High School is approximately 1.6 miles away.
Parks:
The City of la Quinta provides public and private parks, trails, open space and multi-city recreational facilities
with various amenities. The City oversees 11 city parks, a civic center and three nature preserve areas. Per the
2035 La Quinta General Plan, the City has a policy of providing a minimum of 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents.
a) Fire
Less than Significant Impact. Development of the church expansion is not expected to result in an increase
in demand for fire services. The existing church and surrounding development already receives fire services
and the proposed project could be adequately served by fire protection services within the 5-minute
response time and no new or expanded facilities would be required. Additionally, the project complies with
the 2035 General Plan Emergency Services Policy ES-1.2 in that all new development proposals are routed
to the Fire Department to assure that project access and design provide for maximum fire life safety.
The project would be required to implement all applicable fire safety requirements, to include, installation
of fire hydrants, and sprinkler systems. Moreover, the project would be required to comply with
Development Impact Fees in place at the time of construction. The City enacts a development fee on all
new development within the City to finance public facilities which goes towards the funding of fire services.
Less than significant impacts are expected as a result of project implementation.
Mitigation: None
Police
Less than Significant Impact. The proposed church expansion is not expected to increase the need for
police services that would hinder the City’s ability to provide police services or create demands that would
require the construction of a new police station or new facilities. The proposed church expansion would be
constructed as part of the existing church that is surrounded by commercial and residential development,
currently being served by the La Quinta Police Department. Additionally, the project complies with the
2035 General Plan Emergency Services Policy ES-1.6 in that all new development proposals shall be
continued to be routed to the Police Department to assure that the project access and design provide for a
defensible space and maximum crime prevention while maintaining City design standards and codes.
The project would also be required to comply with Development Impact Fees in place at the time of
construction. These fees on allow the City to continue to finance public facilities which goes towards the
funding of various public services to include police. Development of the proposed project will result in
less than significant impacts to police services.
Mitigation: None
Schools
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Less than Significant Impact. The project is proposing an expansion of an existing church to include a
new parish hall, administrative offices, and a parking lot on 5-acres. The proposed expansion would not
generate any school age children. No new or additional school facilities need to be constructed as a result
of the proposed project. Moreover, Assembly Bill 2926 and Senate Bill 50 (SB 50) allow school districts
to collect “development fees” for all new construction for residential/commercial and industrial use. At the
time of writing, DSUSD developer fees are $4.08/sq.ft. for residential and $0.66/ sq.ft. for commercial. All
though the church expansion would not generate students, the District still requires developer fees to assist
with offsetting impacts of employees generated by the project and the potential students that would be
generated by employees. Monies collected are used for construction and reconstruction of school facilities.
Less than significant impact to school services are expected.
Mitigation: None
Parks
Less than Significant Impact. The City currently exceeds its level of service and the amount of parkland
required by the QUIMBY Act. The City oversees 11 city parks, a civic center and three nature preserve
areas. There are approximately 5,259 acres of open space areas set aside for recreational facilities in the
City. These developed open space recreational areas include a variety of city owned and maintained parks
and facilities, County owned parks, Desert Recreation District facilities, and public and private golf courses.
In addition, there are approximately 6,933 acres of natural open space areas within the City offering hiking
trails, equestrian trails, and other passive recreation opportunities. Within La Quinta, there are
approximately 806.44 acres of parks. Per the 2035 La Quinta General Plan, the City has a policy of
providing a minimum of 5.0 acres per 1,000 residents. Thus, the City provides approximately 19.55 acres
per 1,000 residents. The proposed project would not significantly impact park facilities since the project
will not introduce new attendees to the church facility. The project will also be required to comply with the
City’s Development Impact Fees which includes a Park and Recreation fee. Less than significant impacts
to parks are expected.
Mitigation: None
Other Public Facilities
No Impact. No increase in demand for government services or other public facilities is expected beyond
those discussed in this section.
Mitigation: None
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January 2022/Page 88
16. RECREATION –
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Would the project increase the use of existing
neighborhood and regional parks or other
recreational facilities such that substantial
physical deterioration of the facility would occur
or be accelerated?
b) Does the project include recreational facilities
or require the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities, which might have an
adverse physical effect on the environment?
Sources: La Quinta General Plan, La Quinta General Plan Environmental Impact Report.
Setting:
The City of La Quinta offers a variety of passive and active recreational opportunities for residents and visitors to
the region. There are approximately 5,259 acres of open space areas set aside for recreational facilities in the City.
These developed open space recreational areas include a variety of city owned and maintained parks and facilities,
County owned parks, Desert Recreation District facilities, and public and private golf courses. In addition, there
are approximately 6,933 acres of natural open space areas within the City offering hiking trails, equestrian trails,
and other passive recreation opportunities. Within the City limits are five mini parks, including Eisenhower Park,
Seasons Park, Saguaro Park, Desert Pride and Velasco Park. Neighborhood parks include Fritz Burns Park, Adams
Park, Monticello Park, and Pioneer Park. The nearest park to the project is La Quinta Park, located approximately
one mile northeast of the project site. The project will comply with the City’s parkland in lieu fee (Quimby) and
other development impact fees in order to allow for the City’s maintenance of the public facilities.
The City also operates and maintains the La Quinta Wellness Center and La Quinta Museum which are located
within the Village. The La Quinta Wellness Center provides fitness equipment and classes, and also provides
services for senior residents. The La Quinta Museum provides residents with cultural activities, including art
exhibits, programs, and events.
The Desert Recreation District provides park facilities and recreation programs throughout the Coachella Valley.
Once known as the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District, the Desert Recreation District owns and operates
the La Quinta Community Center and is proposing a Discovery Center near Lake Cahuilla.
The District operates the La Quinta Community Center and Park, located at 77865 Avenida Montezuma, includes
a 6.5-acre park and 5,000 square foot community center. The 6.5-acre park includes ball fields, basketball courts,
playground, picnic tables, barbecues, restrooms, an outdoor amphitheater, outdoor exercise facilities, and drinking
fountains. The Community Center includes the La Quinta Fitness Center, kitchen, and concessions.
In addition to community parks, walking and hiking trails also exist within the City of La Quinta. Hiking occurs in
the southern portion of the City, south of the Cove neighborhood. The trails include the 8.92-mile Boo Hoff Trail
west of the project, the 2.41-mile Cove to Lake Trail northwest of the project, and the 4-mile Bear Creek Trail
northwest of the project.
a-b) No Impact. The project would result in the addition of a 22,499-sf parish hall, a 4,835-sf administration
office building, and associated parking to the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church. The parish hall proposes
a 7,012-sf parish hall room with 930-sf stage, a lobby, choral room, kitchen, pantry, maintenance room,
restrooms, office, ten meeting rooms, storage, workroom, and additional miscellaneous rooms associated
with the operation of the parish hall building. The administration office building is proposed to be located
east of the parish hall and would include an administration lobby, reception area, counseling room,
conference room, break room, ten office rooms, storage, and restrooms. The recreational rooms and spaces
within the new parish hall and administration buildings would be available for the patrons of the Church.
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
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The project would not result in more members to the Church since the proposed buildings are intended to
accommodate meetings currently held in inadequate indoor meeting rooms, and outdoor gardens and
courtyards. Therefore, development of the proposed project would not result in the deterioration of the
public park facilities in the City of La Quinta since the proposed project will not increase members or
attendees of the Church. The project would result in no impact.
Mitigation: None
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
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17. TRANSPORTATION – Would the project: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Conflict with a program plan, ordinance or policy
addressing the circulation system, including transit,
roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?
b) Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with
CEQA guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b)?
c) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?
d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
Source: St Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Net Trip Generation and Access Review, October 18, 2021.
Setting
The proposed project is located on existing partially paved overflow parking areas associated with the Saint Francis
of Assisi Church at the southwest corner of Washington Street and the westerly terminus of Avenue 47 in the City
of La Quinta. Access to the project site occurs at two locations from Washington Street. One access point is located
at the Washington Street and Avenue 47 intersection, where traffic signal control is provided, while the second is
at the Washington Street and Washington Street frontage road intersection, where one-way southbound traffic on
the frontage road enters Washington Street north of the Lake La Quinta Drive intersection. Washington Street is
improved to its ultimate lane width. Regional access to the site is provided by Interstate 10 to Washington Street
south to Avenue 47. The property is surrounded by residential land uses to the north (north of Saint Francis of
Assisi), parking lot uses to the east (residential and commercial uses are located on the east side of Washington
Street), vacant property to the south and vacant mountainous property to the west.
Project Summary
Project development will include the construction of the proposed parish hall, administrative offices, walking paths,
parking spaces, and associated infrastructure and landscaping. The 22,499-sf parish hall building is proposed to
include a 7,012-sf parish hall with 930-sf stage. Additional rooms in the parish hall building would include a lobby,
choral room, kitchen, pantry, maintenance room, restrooms, office, ten meeting rooms, storage, workroom, and
additional miscellaneous rooms associated with the operation of the parish hall building. The 4,835-sf
administration office building is proposed east of the parish hall and would include an administration lobby,
reception area, counseling room, conference room, break room, ten office rooms, storage, and restrooms. The parish
hall and administrative offices are proposed to occur in separate buildings. The proposed buildings and the existing
sanctuary will be connected by pedestrians walking paths.
Currently, the Church does not have adequate indoor meeting spaces for the patrons. The meetings are currently
held in small and old indoor spaces, that do not accommodate video or audio set up, or the number of attendees.
The meetings typically overflow to outdoor gardens and courtyards surrounding the existing sanctuary building.
The proposed project buildings and improvements are intended to accommodate meetings currently held in the
insufficient indoor spaces and outdoor gardens and courtyards. Because the new buildings would replace the
courtyard meeting spaces, the proposed project will not increase membership at the Church. Additionally, the
proposed meeting rooms/event center will not be used at the same time as the sanctuary. With the addition of new
enclosed meeting spaces and offices, existing staff and activities will transfer to new and improved facilities.
Access to the project site will continue to utilize the two locations on Washington Street:
Washington Street/Avenue 47 (1)
Washington Street/Washing Street Frontage Road (2)
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
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The Washington Street and Avenue 47 intersection includes a traffic signal that provides access to the main Church
parking lot. Traffic entering the site from the Washington Street and Avenue 47 intersection maneuvers onto the
Washington Street frontage road and travels southbound to the Project Main Driveway. Traffic exiting the project
site either returns northbound along the Washington Street frontage road to Avenue 47 or travels southbound along
the Washington Street frontage road to enter Washington Street southbound travel lanes. The project does not
propose changes to the existing access routes to and from the project site.
The traffic review study area and site plan is illustrated in Exhibit 17-I and 17-II, respectively.
N.T.S.
MSA CONSULTING, INC.
> PLANNING > CIVIL ENGINEERING > LAND SURVEYING
34200 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.320.9811 msaconsultinginc.com
EXHIBIT
17-IST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH EXPANSION
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
SITE CONTEXT WITH EXISTING INTERSECTION TRAFFIC CONTROLS
AND THROUGH TRAVEL LANES ON ADJACENT ROADWAYS
N.T.S.
MSA CONSULTING, INC.
> PLANNING > CIVIL ENGINEERING > LAND SURVEYING
34200 Bob Hope Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760.320.9811 msaconsultinginc.com
SITE PLAN - PARISH HALL ADDITIONEXHIBIT
17-IIST. FRANCIS OF ASSISI CATHOLIC CHURCH EXPANSION
MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration
January 2022/Page 94
TIA Analysis Methodology
A Net Trip Generation and Access Review was prepared for the proposed project by Urban Crossroads, October
18, 2021. The traffic review was based upon an analysis of existing access conditions, proposed project
improvements, seating and building capacity, trip generation characteristics and parking requirements. Project trips
were generated based on the rates collected by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation
Manual, 11th Edition, 2021.
Seating and building capacity were calculated based on existing Pews/seats, individual family room seats and single
individual seats within the existing sanctuary building. Table XVII-1 illustrates that the existing sanctuary (2021)
accommodates 904 people at full seating capacity.
Table XVII-1 Existing Project Seated Capacity
Seating Arrangement Attendees
Existing Sanctuary (2021)
57 @ 212” Long Pews, 18”/ seat 627
30 @ 92” Long Pews, 18”/ seat 150
Individual Family Room Seats 13
Single Individual Seats 114
Seated Capacity 904
Level of Service Standard
As required by SB 743, Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) replaced the former metric used to analyze traffic impacts
which was LOS. With the implementation of SB 743, intersection LOS is not calculated to determine transportation
impacts, however it provides information regarding intersection capacity and general plan consistency for the City.
The transportation assessment of LOS was conducted for consistency with the City of La Quinta General Plan and
to evaluate the proposed project’s effect on the surrounding transportation network.
Level of Service (LOS) is a measure of transportation system performance based upon the ratio of traffic volume
relative to the capacity of the roadway or intersection. The volume-to-capacity ratio (V/C) indicates the overall
performance of the roadway segment or intersection and corresponds to a rating of A through F identifying its level
of capacity utilization and relative level of congestion. LOS A represents free-flow traffic with little or no delay
whereas LOS F represents a breakdown of traffic flow and a high incidence of delay.
Table XVII-2 Level of Service
Description Mid-Link and Uninterrupted Flow
Level of Service Volume/Capacity Ratio
A 0.00 – 0.60
B 0.61 – 0.70
C 0.71 – 0.80
D 0.81 – 0.90
E 0.91 – 1.00
F Not Meaningful
Source: Highway Capacity Manual, Transportation Research
Board – Special Report 209, National Academy of Science,
Washington, D.C. 2000.
According to the City of La Quinta Circulation Element, for roadway segment travel LOS is a measure of the flow
of traffic, while for intersections, the LOS is based on the number of seconds the vehicle is delayed in passing
through the intersection. The Element further states that although accepting a lower level of service (LOS E or even
F) at certain intersections and segments during peak season may result in periodic congestion, once familiar with
network constraints, travelers will seek alternative paths and traffic will be distributed to those parts of the network
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with surplus capacity. The City of La Quinta has established LOS D as the minimum level of service for its street
segments.
Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF)
The Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF) program identifies network backbone and local roadways
that are needed to accommodate growth. The regional program was put into place to ensure that developments
pay their fair share and that funding is in place for the construction of facilities needed to maintain an acceptable
level of service for the transportation system. The TUMF is a regional mitigation fee program and is imposed and
implemented in every jurisdiction in Western Riverside County.
Alternative Transportation
The City of La Quinta is served by the SunLine Transit Agency.
SunDial is a valley wide, origin-to-destination paratransit service designed to meet the requirements of the
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). The purpose is to provide next day public transportation service for persons
who are unable to use regular SunLine service. SunDial service is available within 3/4 of a mile on either side of
any local SunLine route (not including Commuter Link 220 & Line 95).
Transit service is reviewed and updated by SunLine periodically to addresses issues such as budget, ridership and
community demand. Changes in land use can affect these periodic changes, which could lead to enhanced service
where appropriate.
Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT)
The current recommended metric in the CEQA guidelines for transportation impacts is Vehicle Miles Traveled
(VMT) per capita per SB 743. The legislative intent of SB 743 is to balance the needs of congestion management
with statewide goals for infill development, promotion of public health through active transportation and reduction
of greenhouse gas emissions.
VMT is a measure of the amount of travel for all vehicles in a geographic region over a given period of time,
typically a one-year period. The analysis of VMT (SB743) attributable to a project in CEQA went into full effect
statewide on July 1, 2020. According to the Governor’s office of Planning and Research (OPR) proposed CEQA
Guideline Implementing SB 743, projects that decrease vehicle miles traveled in a project area compared to existing
conditions should be considered to have a less than significant transportation impact. The California Air Pollution
Control Officers Association (CAPCOA) publishes a resource for Local Government to assess emission reductions
from Greenhouse Gas Mitigation Measures. The CAPCOA report recognizes that land use planning provides the
best opportunity to influence GHG emissions through a reduction in overall VMT.
Based on OPR’s Technical Advisory, the City of La Quinta has prepared their Vehicle Miles Traveled Analysis
Policy (City Guidelines). The VMT analysis was prepared based on the adopted City Guidelines. The Vehicle
Miles Traveled Analysis Policy (June 2020, updated July 2021) (La Quinta Guidelines) are consistent with the
VMT analysis methodology recommended by OPR. As outlined in the La Quinta Guidelines, a church expansion
project such as the one proposed would be considered significant if it results in a net increase in the total existing
VMT for the region.
Existing Transportation Conditions Summary
Washington Street – Washington Street is a north-south oriented roadway that has a variable width throughout the
City. It is currently classified as a Major Arterial. The section that is located adjacent to the property has a right of
way width of 128 feet with 6 driving lanes and a bicycle lane on both sides of the street. The 2013 GP EIR indicates
that the existing ADT was 36,710 with a capacity of 59,300 ADT. The existing V/C Ratio – LOS was B. According
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to the 2017 CVAG Coachella Valley Traffic Counts GIS, daily traffic was 48,977 ADT which results in a V/C of
0.83, which is a LOS of D.
General Plan consistency is analyzed in section a) below, while VMT is analyzed in b) of this Transportation
discussion.
a) Less Than Significant Impact.
Level of Service (LOS)
Trip generation was calculated by land use type and was calculated using the reference Trip Generation,
11th Edition (2021) prepared by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). Trip Generation Rates for
churches is determined based upon seats. Table XVII-3 illustrates the Trip Generations Summary for the
project based on the ITE Land Use Classification.
Table XVII -3
Project Trip Generation Summary
Trip Generation Rates
(note 1)
Land Use ITE LU Code Quantity
AM Peak Hour MD Peak Hour Daily
In Out Total In Out Total
Church 560 904 Seats 0.04 0.03 0.07 0.05 0.26 0.51 2.21
Trip Generation Results
Weekday Weekend
Land Use ITE LU
Code
Quantity
AM Peak Hour MD Peak Hour Peak Hour Daily
In Out Total In Out Total In Out Total
Church 560 904 Seats 38 25 63 41 50 814 226 235 461 1,998
Total 38 25 63 41 50 814 226 235 461 1,998
1. Trip Generation Source: Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE), Trip Generation Manual, 11th Edition (2021).
As shown in Table XVII-3, the Project is anticipated to generate a total of 814 two‐way trips per day on
a typical weekday, 63 AM peak hour trips, and 91 PM peak hour trips. On a typical weekend day, The
Project is anticipated to generate a total of 1,998 two‐way trips per day with 461 peak hour trips.
Future Traffic Conditions
As previously stated, the Church does not have adequate indoor meeting space for the patrons. The meetings
are currently held in indoor areas, however, due to the age and size of these rooms, they are currently
inadequate for functionality and number of attendees. Overflow typically occurs in outdoor gardens and
outdoor courtyards surrounding the existing sanctuary building. The proposed project buildings and
improvements are intended to accommodate meetings currently held in courtyards. Because the new
buildings would replace the courtyard meeting spaces, the proposed project will not increase membership
at the Church. Additionally, the proposed meeting rooms/event center will not be used at the same time as
the sanctuary. With the addition of new enclosed meeting spaces and offices, existing staff and activities
will transfer to new and improved facilities. Because the project is not proposing a change in the seating,
trip generation is not anticipated to change with the addition of the project.
Congestion Management Plan
The County Congestion Management Plan (CMP) requires a LOS E or better for regional roadways. As
noted previously the generation, distribution, and management of project traffic is not expected to conflict
with the CMP; no CMP roadways occur in the vicinity of the project. The project and background traffic
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will not exceed City level of service standards or travel demand measures, or other standards established
by the City or Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) for designated roads or highways.
The Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF) program identifies network backbone and local
roadways that are needed to accommodate growth.
The project proponent will be required to contribute development impact fees (e.g., traffic signal mitigation
fees) and participate in the Traffic Uniform Mitigation Fee (TUMF) program (further discussed in this
section.) Following the payment of required fees such as TUMF and DIF, less than significand impacts are
anticipated relative to the CMP.
Alternative Transportation
Sunline Transit Agency provides public bus service throughout the Coachella Valley. Sunline Transit
Agency provides bus services along Highway 111, Washington Street and Avenue 47 via Line 70. There is
an existing bus stop for line 70 on the northwest corner of Washington Street and Avenue 48, adjacent to
the southeast corner of the property. Transit service is reviewed and updated by Sunline periodically to
address ridership, budget and community demand needs.
An existing off-street path (shared bike/pedestrian) is located along Washington Street, adjacent to the
project. There is an existing sidewalk along the western side of Washington Street, along the project’s
eastern boundary. The proposed project is not anticipated to result in significant impacts to existing bike
lanes. Temporary impacts may occur during construction; however, any bicycle access adjacent to the
project will be restored to existing conditions.
The La Quinta General Plan Golf Cart/Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV)/Multi-use Paths indicates
that a Class III golf cart / NEV shared parking facility is shown along Washington Street from Avenue 47
to Avenue 48, apparently utilizing the Washington Street Frontage Road north of Lake La Quinta Drive.
The project would provide a pedestrian access network that internally links all uses and connects to all
existing external streets and pedestrian facilities contiguous with the project site. The project would
minimize barriers to pedestrian access and interconnectivity. The project includes sidewalk connections,
particularly to / from the parking areas and church uses.
The proposed project is not anticipated to result in significant impacts to existing bike lanes. Temporary
impacts may occur during construction; however, any bicycle access adjacent to the project will be restored
to existing conditions.
The City of La Quinta implements a Development Impact Fee (DIF.) The proposed project is located within
the City of La Quinta and will therefore be subject to the DIF. Eligible facilities for funding the City DIF
program are identified on the County of Riverside’s Public Needs List.
The project design will not conflict with adopted policies, plans, or programs regarding public transit,
bicycle, or pedestrian facilities, or otherwise decrease the performance or safety of such facilities. Less than
significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
b) Less Than Significant Impact.
The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) procedures for determination of transportation impacts
have recently changed to an evaluation of Vehicle Miles Traveled (VMT) rather than vehicle delay or LOS,
due to Senate Bill 743 (SB 743). Vehicle delay and level of service are still used in La Quinta traffic studies,
as presented previously in this CEQA document.
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To aid in the transition from LOS to VMT, the Governor’s Office of Planning and Research (OPR) released
a Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA (December of 2018) (Technical
Advisory). Based on OPR’s Technical Advisory, the City of La Quinta prepared their Vehicle Miles
Traveled Analysis Policy (City Guidelines). A Project specific VMT Screening has been prepared based
on the adopted City Guidelines.
Methodology
The City of La Quinta Vehicle Miles Traveled Analysis Policy sets forth screening criteria under which
projects are not required to submit detailed VMT analysis. This guidance for determination of non-
significant VMT impact is primarily intended to avoid unnecessary analysis and findings that would be
inconsistent with the intent of SB 743. VMT screening criteria for development projects include the
following:
Project Type Screening: Small projects and Local serving projects may be presumed to have a less
than significant impact. Small projects and those with low trip generation per existing CEQA
exemptions or result in 3,000 Metric Tons of Carbon Dioxide Equivalent (MTCO2e) or less. Local
serving projects are determined to shorten non-discretionary trips by putting goods and services
closer to residents, resulting in an overall reduction in VMT.
Project Screening
The project has been reviewed for VMT screening based on the criteria mentioned above and no further
VMT analysis is needed. The proposed project will not increase the daily trips currently attributed to the
existing facility , which meets screening criteria for small projects.
Additionally, based on the GHGA described previously in the Greenhouse Gases section of this CEQA
document, the project-related GHG emission levels are anticipated to be 295.81 MTCO2e which is well
below the CEQA threshold of 3,000 MTCO2e.
Conclusions
The project is not anticipated to increase trip generation, and will not exceed the CEQA GHG emission
threshold of 3000 MTCO2e therefore it is considered a small project. Trip generation changes mid-week
would be nominal. Church uses are like park, day care, and government services in their use by local area
residents. Therefore, changes to the church can be presumed to have a less than significant impact absent
substantial evidence to the contrary. Therefore, the project will not conflict with or be inconsistent with
CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 subdivision (b). Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. The project will be developed in accordance with City design guidelines
and will not create a substantial increase in hazards due to a design feature. The project’s access points will
not be altered. Project-generated traffic will not change and is consistent with existing traffic in the area.
The internal circulation system will provide adequate fire department access. Sharp curves are avoided by
design guidelines.
A Traffic Control Plan may be required as a condition of approval to be implemented throughout all
construction activities. This plan will work to reduce potential impacts that may arise due to conflicts with
construction traffic. Impacts will be less than significant. The project’s access points will be located with
adequate sight distances, and project-generated traffic will be consistent with existing traffic in the area.
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The project is not anticipated to increase hazards due to geometric design feature or incompatible uses.
Following the review and approval process at the City of La Quinta, impacts are less than significant without
mitigation. Therefore, less than significant project related impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
d) Less than Significant Impact. Emergency Access: Regional access to the project site will be provided via
primary arterials, secondary arterials and a variety of local roads.
Primary Project access will continue to be provided via the Project N Entry/Washington Street entrance.
Emergency Access will be provided at the right in/right out only Project S. Driveway. Design guidelines
further ensure that emergency access is incorporated into proposed project design.
Prior to construction, both the Fire department and Police department will review project plans to ensure
safety measures are addressed, including emergency access. The proposed project will not result in
inadequate emergency access. Less than significant impacts are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES – Would
the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Would the project cause a substantial
Adverse change in the significance of a
Tribal cultural resource, defined in Public
Resource Code Section 21074 as either
a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that
is geographically defined in terms of the size
scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object
with cultural value to a California Native
American tribe, and that is:
i)Listed or eligible for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources, or in a local
Register of historical resources as defined
in Public Resource Code Section 5020.1(k), or;
ii)A resource determined by the lead agency,
in its discretion and supported by substantial
evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria
set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources
Code Section 5024.1. In applying the criteria
set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources
Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall
consider the significance of the resource to a
California Native American Tribe.
Sources: Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery Report, CRM Tech; City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan
Chapter III Natural Resources Element, 2013.
Setting:
The Coachella Valley is a historical center of Native American settlement, where U.S. surveyors noted large
numbers of Indian villages and rancherías occupied by the Cahuilla people in the mid-19th century. The origin of
the name “Cahuilla” is unclear, but it may have originated from their own word káwiya, meaning master or boss
(Bean 1978). The Takic-speaking Cahuilla are generally divided by anthropologists into three groups, according
to their geographic setting: the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio Pass-Palm Springs area, the Mountain Cahuilla
of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains and the Cahuilla Valley, and the Desert Cahuilla of the eastern
Coachella Valley.
The Cahuilla did not have a single name that referred to an all-inclusive tribal affiliation. Instead, membership was
in terms of lineages or clans. Each lineage or clan belonged to one of two main divisions of the people, known as
moieties, which were named for the Wildcat, or Tuktum, and the Coyote, or Istam. Members of clans in one moiety
had to marry into clans from the other moiety. Individual clans had villages, or central places, and territories they
called their own for purposes of hunting game and gathering raw materials for food, medicine, ritual, or tool use.
They interacted with other clans through trade, intermarriage, and ceremonies.
Cahuilla subsistence was defined by the surrounding landscape and primarily based on the hunting and gathering
of wild and cultivated foods, exploiting nearly all of the resources available in a highly developed seasonal mobility
system. They were adapted to the arid conditions of the desert floor, the lacustral cycles of Holocene Lake Cahuilla,
and the environments of the nearby mountains. When the lake was full or nearly full, the Cahuilla would take
advantage of the resources presented by the body of fresh water, building elaborate stone fish traps. Once the lake
had desiccated, they relied on the available terrestrial resources. Walk-in wells were dug by hand to utilize
groundwater. The cooler temperatures and resources available at higher elevations in the nearby mountains were
also taken advantage of.
Today, Native Americans of Pass or Desert Cahuilla heritage are mostly affiliated with one or more of the Indian
reservations in and near the Coachella Valley, including Torres Martinez, Augustine, Cabazon, Agua Caliente, and
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Morongo. There has been a resurgence of traditional ceremonies, and the language, songs, and stories are now
being taught to the younger generations.
The project is located on developed land south of the existing St. Francis of Assisi Church building in the City of
La Quinta. A project-specific Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery Report was prepared by
CRM Tech (November 2021). The immediate objective of the mitigation program is to recover a representative
sample of archaeological data from the portion of Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415 that would be impacted by the
project, including cremation remains first discovered at Site 33-002198 during an archaeological monitoring
program in an adjacent portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church property in 2010. To accomplish this
objective, CRM Tech completed a systematic resurvey of the site areas, the excavation of 29 data recovery units,
and laboratory analysis of all cultural materials collected from both surface and subsurface contexts.
a i-ii) Less than Significant with Mitigation. As previously discussed in the Cultural Resources section of this
document, the purpose of the Mitigative Archaeological Excavation and Data Recovery report study is to
mitigate potential project impacts on Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415, both of which were previously found
to qualify as “historical resources,” as defined by CEQA, through data recovery.
Site 33-002198 is the primary focus of the mitigation program. It was originally recorded in 1972 and has
been revisited, surveyed systematically, and treated with test excavations. Meanwhile, the current project
area was covered in its entirety by at least two standard Phase I cultural resources surveys in 1991 and 1998.
A testing program conducted on 33-002198 in 1991 concluded that it was “unlikely that further research at
this site would contribute substantially to our understanding of the lifeways of the prehistoric people of this
area”. Subsequently, the 1998 survey found the site not to meet CEQA’s definition of a “historical
resource”. Since the 1990s, however, shifting sands have been continuously altering the condition of Site
33-002198, burying some cultural remains while exposing others.
During an archaeological monitoring program in an adjacent portion of the St. Francis of Assisi Catholic
Church property in 2010, Native American and archaeological monitors observed a newly exposed
concentration of calcined bone fragments at the location of 33-002198, which were then determined by the
Riverside County Coroner’s Office to be consistent with cremated prehistoric human remains. Because of
the cultural/spiritual significance of the cremation remains to the local Native Americans, the site was
recommended for the statutory status of a “historical resource” at that time
As a result of the archaeological investigations completed during this study, a representative sample of the
cultural deposits from Site 33-002198, in particular the cremated human remains, have been recovered for
the mitigation effort. Most of Site 33-008145 was previously treated with a similar data recovery program
in 2001, and the relatively small number of artifacts recovered from that site during this study do not
substantially alter its archaeological data potential or the previously established status of the site.
After being designated the Most Likely Descendant by the State of California Native American Heritage
Commission (NAHC), Ernest Morreo, an elder from the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, visited
the site and blessed the remains. The tribe decided that since the cremation remains were not being impacted
at the time, they should be left in place. The proposed St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Project, however, will now impact the portion of 33-002198 containing the remains, which was not included
in the previous testing program. As a result, the current mitigation program was developed and implemented
at the site to reduce the project impacts to a level less than significant.
The archaeological fieldwork for this mitigation program was completed between June 3 and June 9, 2020
with the assistance of Robin Lawson, Tribal monitor for the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
Before beginning excavations, the project area was resurveyed at an intensive level by walking a series of
transects spaced approximately five to ten meters apart and oriented either in the north-south direction or,
on steeper terrain, along the natural contour. The existing site maps generated from the earlier studies were
used to help locate archaeological remains recorded in the past, including the cremation feature discovered
in 2010.
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Based on these considerations, CRM TECH concludes that mitigation of potential project impacts on Sites
33-002198 and 33-008415 has been partially accomplished through the research procedures carried out
during this study. The mitigation effort will be completed upon the proper repatriation of the cremation
remains according to the wishes of the Most Likely Descendent and the elders representing the Torres
Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians. Despite the extensive archaeological research to date, the project area
continues to have a demonstrated sensitivity for buried prehistoric remains, especially since the shifting
sands have revealed previously unknown portions of the site in the past. In addition to locating the cremation
feature that was discovered during the 2010 cultural monitoring program, the resurvey found groundstone,
ceramics, and faunal remains on the surface that had been revealed by blown and shifting sands.
Information recovered from Sites 33-002198 and 33-008415 indicates that they were used during the Late
Prehistoric Period. It is well known to archaeologists and ethnographers that Native people would spread
out across the surrounding countryside from their villages to collect items for food, shelter, clothing,
adornment, and social activities. The data from these two sites do not provide any new, important
information regarding the people that used the area or their culture. However, the presence of cremation
remains that were encountered elevate its interpretation and cultural/spiritual significance, especially to the
nearby Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
Since both Site 33-002198 and Site 33-008415 were previously determined to meet CEQA’s definition of
“historical resources,” the potential impact of the proposed St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
Project on these sites would constitute “a significant effect on the environment,” and the current study was
designed and implemented to mitigate the impact through archaeological data recovery in compliance with
that provision.
As a result of the archaeological field procedures and laboratory analysis completed during this study, a
representative sample of the cultural deposits from Site 33-002198, in particular the cremated human
remains, have been recovered for the mitigation effort. Most of Site 33-008145 was previously treated with
a similar data recovery program in 2001, and the relatively small number of artifacts recovered from that
site during this study do not substantially alter its archaeological data potential or the previously established
status of the site.
Based on these considerations, CRM TECH concludes that mitigation of potential project impacts on Sites
33-002198 and 33-008415 has been partially accomplished through this study. The mitigation effort will
be completed upon the proper repatriation of the cremation remains according to the wishes of the Most
Likely Descendent and the elders representing the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians.
To ensure that all significant Tribal Cultural Resources are identified and fully considered, the City of La
Quinta initiated a 30-day government to government Tribal consultation period with local Tribes from April
22, 2022, to May 23, 2022.
During the consultation period one Tribe responded to consultation requests. The Tribe being the Agua
Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI). The ACBCI determined that although the project was not
located within the boundaries of the ACBCI Reservation, the project is within the Tribe’s Traditional Use
Area. Additionally, a record check of the ACBCI’s registry identified previous surveys in the area that were
positive for the presence of cultural resources. Therefore, the ACBCI THPO requests formal government
to government consultation (AB 52), all documentation regarding cultural resources associated with the
project site, the presence of an archaeologist and an approved Agua Caliente Native American Cultural
Resource Monitor during ground disturbing activities. These are indicated as Mitigation Measures TCR-1
through TCR-3 and CUL-1 below. Therefore, less than significant impacts related to Tribal cultural
resources are expected following the implementation of Mitigation Measures TCR-1 through TCR-4, and
CUL-1 of this Initial Study.
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Mitigation:
TCR-1: Formal government consultation under California Assembly Bill No. 52 (AB 52) shall commence
between the City of La Quinta and the ACBCI.
TCR-2: Prior to any development activities, the project proponent shall provide a cultural resources
inventory of the project area, conducted by a qualified archaeologist, a copy of the records search with
associated survey reports and site records from the information center, and copies of any cultural resource
documentation (report and site records) generated in connection with the project.
TCR-3: The presence of an approved Agua Caliente Native American Cultural Resource Monitor(s) shall
be required during any ground disturbing activities (including archaeological testing and surveys). Should
buried cultural deposits be encountered, the Monitor may request that destructive construction in that area
stop, and the Monitor shall notify a Qualified Archaeologist (Secretary of the Interior’s Standards and
Guidelines) to investigate and, if necessary, prepare a mitigation plan for submission to the State Historic
Preservation Officer and the Agua Caliente Tribal Historic Preservation Office.
CUL-1: The presence of a qualified archaeologist shall be required during all project related ground
disturbing activities, including clearing and grubbing. In the event that potentially significant archaeological
materials are discovered, all work must be halted in the vicinity of the archaeological discovery until the
archaeologist can assess the significance of the find, and its potential eligibility for listing in the California
Register of Historical Resources (CRHC).
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19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS –
Would the project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded water,
wastewater treatment or storm water drainage,
electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications
facilities, the construction or relocation of which
could cause significant environmental effects?
b) Have sufficient water supplies available to
serve the project and reasonable foreseeable
future development during normal, dry and
multiple dry years?
c) Result in a determination by wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
project’s projected demand in addition to the
provider’s existing commitments?
d) Generate solid waste in excess of State or local
standards, or in excess of the capacity of local
infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment
of solid waste reduction goals?
e) Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statutes and
regulations related to solid waste?
Source: City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan, Chapter V, Public Infrastructure and Services, Riverside County EIR No. 52,
Public Facilities, Section 4.17.
Setting:
CVWD provides domestic and wastewater service to the project vicinity and is largest provider of potable water in
the Coachella Valley. It operates more than 100 wells and serves a population of 283,000 in its service areas.
CVWD’s adopted 2020 Coachella Valley Regional Urban Water Management Plan has been developed to assist
the agency in reliably meeting current and future water demands in a cost-effective manner. Additionally, CVWD
treats nearly 6.3 billion gallons of wastewater a year. CVWD operates six water reclamation plants and maintains
more than 1,000 miles of sewer pipeline and more than 30 lift stations that transport wastewater to the nearest
treatment facility. No new water or wastewater treatment facilities are required as a result of the projects
development.
The site is under the jurisdiction for power from IID, natural gas from Southern California Gas Company, and
Frontier and Charter Communications for telecommunications. The site is currently connected to utility services
located on Washington Street.
Groundwater is the primary source of domestic water supply in the Coachella Valley. CVWD is the largest provider
of potable water in the Coachella Valley and currently provides potable water to the City of La Quinta. CVWD’s
2020 Regional Urban Water Management Plan and 2022 Indio Subbasin Water Management Plan have been
developed to assist the agency in reliably meeting current and future water demands in a cost-effective manner. The
comprehensive Water Management Plan guides efforts to eliminate overdraft, prevent groundwater level decline,
protect water quality, and prevent land subsidence. The 2020 UWMP serves as a planning tool that documents
actions in support of long-term water resources planning and ensures adequate water supplies are available to meet
the existing and future urban water demands.
CVWD has developed a Sewer System Management Plan (SSMP) pursuant to the State Water Resources Control
Board Order No. 2006-0003, Statewide General Waste Discharge Requirements (WDR) for Sanitary Sewer
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Systems. The primary goal of the SSMP is to minimize frequency and severity of Sanitary Sewer Overflows (SSOs).
The SSMP will cover the management, planning, design, and operation and maintenance of the District's sanitary
sewer system. The wastewater system serves approximately 265,000 customers. The system collects municipal
waste from residential and commercial users, delivering the collected wastewater to one of six Wastewater
Reclamation Plants. The system includes approximately 1,100 miles of sewer, 34 lift stations and approximately
17,000 manholes.
Solid waste disposal and recycling services for the City of La Quinta is provided by Burrtec. Solid waste and
recycling collected from the proposed project will be hauled to the Edom Hill Transfer Station. Waste from this
transfer station is then sent to a permitted landfill or recycling facility outside of the Coachella Valley. These include
Badlands Disposal Site, El Sobrante Sanitary Landfill and Lamb Canyon Disposal Site. Cal-Recycle data indicates
the Badlands Disposal site has 15,748.799 cubic yards of remaining capacity, the El Sobrante Landfill has a
remaining capacity of 145,530,000 tons of solid waste, and Lamb Canyon Disposal has a remaining solid waste
capacity of 19,242,950 cubic yards. As part of its long-range planning and management activities, the Riverside
County Department of Waste Resources (RCDWR) ensures that Riverside County has a minimum of 15 years of
capacity, at any time, for future landfill disposal. The 15-year projection of disposal capacity is prepared each year
by as part of the annual reporting requirements for the Countywide Integrated Waste Management Plan. The most
recent 15-year projection by the RCDWR indicates that no additional capacity is needed to dispose of countywide
waste through 2024, with a remaining disposal capacity of 28,561,626 tons in the year 2024.
a) Less than Significant Impact. As a standard requirement, the project site design will incorporate
stormwater management by conveying site runoff into the project’s sites existing retention facilities. The
existing retention basin also includes two drywell facilities, which are typically implemented to accept and
infiltrate low-flow runoff volume.
The site is currently connected to utility services located on Washington Street and the proposed expansion
will not require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment,
storm water drainage systems, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunication facilities. Therefore, less
than significant impacts are expected as a result of project implementation.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. To provide an adequate long-range forecast of future water demands, this
2022 Indio Subbasin Alternative Plan Update (Alternative Plan Update) uses a 25-year planning period
from 2020 through 2045.Table 5-35 from the 2022 Indio Subbasin Water Management Plan presents the
updated water demand projections for the Plan Area. Total water demand projected for 2045 is
approximately 644,610 AFY. Projected water demand for 2045 is about 240,800 AFY lower than the
885,400 AFY originally projected for 2045 in the 2010 CVWMP Update. This reduction is a direct result
of significantly reduced sociodemographic growth projections, along with conservation savings that have
been achieved by Indio Subbasin water users over the last decade and are assumed for the future through
passive conservation.
Per CVWD’s Indio Subbasin Water Management Plan, the Indio Subbasin has both imported water and
local water sources in its current water supply portfolio. This available water supply portfolio will be used
to meet growing demands – municipal, agriculture, golf, and other demands.
The City’s Municipal Code has several ordinances in place to ensure water supply and efficiency measures
are in place. Additionally, the City has adopted CVWD’s water-efficient landscape ordinance (in
compliance with the Department of Water Resources Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance). This
ordinance requires landscape design that incorporates climate appropriate plant material and efficient
irrigation for all new and rehabilitated landscaping projects. Compliance with these ordinances will ensure
that future development reduces water demand to meet target demands.
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As previously discussed, the project site is currently graded and paved and used as overflow parking
associated with the existing Church. Project development will include the construction of the proposed
parish hall, administrative offices, walking paths, parking spaces, and associated infrastructure and
landscaping. The project is currently tied into potable water through an existing 18-inch waterline on
Washington Street and 8-inch waterlines serve the existing church, the proposed expansion will continue
to connect to potable water through the existing 8-inch waterlines. The utilities will be further reviewed by
the City and CVWD staff to ensure compliance with all current and applicable water requirements.
The expansion will be expected to implement water conservation measures to reduce impacts to the public
water supply per the CVWD UWMP. Therefore, less than significant impacts to water supplies are
expected.
Mitigation: None
c) Less than Significant Impact. The project will connect to the existing 10-inch sewer main currently
serving the project. Flows would then be delivered to CVWDs Wastewater Reclamation Plant No.4 (WRP-
4). WRP-4 has a plant capacity of 9.9 MGD located in Thermal. The annual average flow to this facility is
approximately 4.75 MGD (5,300) AFY. The project will undergo additional review by CVWD and City
staff to assure compliance with all current and applicable wastewater treatment requirements. Therefore,
the project is not expected to exceed CVWD’s wastewater capacity demand and less than significant
impacts are expected.
Mitigation: None
d) Less than Significant Impact. All future development would be required to comply with mandatory
commercial and multifamily recycling requirements of Assembly Bill 341. Therefore, the project will
comply with all applicable solid waste statutes, policies and guidelines; and the project will be served by a
landfill with sufficient capacity to serve the project. Therefore, less than significant impacts relative to solid
waste are anticipated.
Mitigation: None
e) No Impact. The project will comply with all applicable solid waste statutes, policies and guidelines. All
development is required to comply with the mandatory commercial and multi-family recycling
requirements of Assembly Bill 341. The project will also comply with the recycling requirements of Cal
Green and develop a waste management plan that will include diverting at least 50% of construction and
demolition material from landfills. No impacts are expected relative to applicable solid waste regulations.
Mitigation: None
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20. WILDFIRE – If located in or near state
responsibility areas or lands classified as very
high fire hazard severity zones, would the Project:
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan?
b) Due to slope, prevailing winds, and other
factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby
expose project occupants to, pollutant
concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled
spread of a wildfire?
c) Require the installation or maintenance of
associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel
breaks, emergency water resources, power lines
or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or
that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts
to the environment?
d) Expose people or structures to significant risks,
including downslope or downstream flooding or
landslides, as a result of runoff post-fire slope
instability, or drainage changes?
Sources: CAL FIRE Fire Hazard Severity Zone Maps; La Quinta General Plan; La Quinta General Plan Environmental Impact
Report.
Setting:
A wildfire is an unplanned fire that burns in a natural area such as a forest, grassland, or prairie. Wildfires are often
caused by humans or lighting and are exacerbated by steep slopes, dense vegetation (fuel), and dry and windy
weather conditions. When these conditions are present, a wildfire can burn quickly and over a vast area, damaging
hillsides, essential infrastructure, and homes and buildings.
The City of La Quinta is comprised of both urban and undeveloped uses. The northern and central portions of the
City are primarily urbanized, with few remaining vacant areas. Meanwhile, the southern and western portions of
the City are primarily occupied by vacant, undeveloped, and agricultural land uses, as well as the Santa Rosa
Mountains, which are undeveloped, apart from the recreational uses (i.e. hiking trails) in this area. The undeveloped
Santa Rosa Mountains in the southern portion of the City are characterized by steep topographic gradients that are
typically conducive to spreading wildfires. Furthermore, the region’s hot, dry summer and autumn weather is
considered ideal for generating the dry vegetation that fuel most wildfires. However, wildfires in the undeveloped
local mountains adjacent to the Coachella Valley cities are not common due to the mountain’s natural terrain, which
is steep, rocky, and dry. Furthermore, the Santa Rosa Mountains are made up primarily of Granitic rock and sparse
desert vegetation. The topographic character of the Santa Rosa Mountains is not conducive for the growth of dense
vegetation; and as a result, the amount of fuel available for wildland fires is limited. Additionally, the distance
between the existing vegetation does not allow wildfires to spread easily.
In addition to the Granitic Santa Rosa Mountains, the flat urban and developed areas of the City of La Quinta are
considered low wildfires areas, as indicated in the La Quinta General Plan Environmental Impact Report (LQGP
EIR). Within the urban context of La Quinta, landscaped areas throughout the City are carefully maintained and
watered regularly, creating conditions that limit the possibility for vegetation fires to ignite and spread.
A Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) is the line, area, or zone where structures and other human development meet
or intermingle with undeveloped wildland or vegetation fuels. People and man-made structures in WUI areas are
more susceptible to the impacts of wildfires due to their adjacency to areas that provide fuel to wildfires, such as
forests with dense vegetation.
The City of La Quinta is situated at the base of the Santa Rosa Mountains, introducing an urban-wildland interface
to the western and southern portions of the City. The project site is located in the southern portion of the City,
St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church Expansion
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adjacent to the foothills of the Santa Rosa Mountains. As stated previously, the Santa Rosa Mountains are made up
primarily of Granitic rock and sparse desert vegetation. These limited vegetative conditions in the City’s western
portion, are unlikely to cause a major wildfire. Additionally, the flat urban areas of the City are considered low
wildfire areas, as indicated in the LQGP EIR.
a-d) Less than Significant Impact. The project site currently operates as overflow parking for the existing St.
Francis of Assisi Church. The project site sits within an urban and developed context within the City of La
Quinta. Areas surrounding the project are defined by the existing St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church to
the north of the project, the Church parking lot, Washington Street, and commercial structures to the east
of the project, vacant land to the south of the project, and open space natural slopes associated with the
Santa Rosa Mountains foothills west of the project.
According to CAL Fire’s Fire Hazard Severity Zones (FHSZ) in State Responsibility Areas (SRA) Map,
the project site is not located in an SRA or located in an area classified as very high fire hazard severity
zone. Per CAL Fire’s map, the project property is located in a (incorporated) Local Responsibility Area
(LRA) that is designated “non-Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone” (VHFSZ). The project is not located
in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, therefore, no
impacts are anticipated. Further discussion provided below.
Wildfire risk is related to a number of parameters, including fuel loading (vegetation), fire weather (winds,
temperatures, humidity levels and fuel moisture contents) and topography (degree of slope). Steep slopes
contribute to fire hazards by intensifying the effects of wind and make fire suppression difficult. Fuels such
as grass are highly flammable because they have a high surface area to mass ratio and require less heat to
reach the ignition point. Methods to address the hazard of wildland fires includes creating setbacks that
buffer development from hazard areas, maintaining brush clearance to reduce potential fuel, use of low fuel
landscaping, and use of fire resistant building techniques. Although the project site is located adjacent to
the slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountain foothills, this area does not provide vegetative fuel that is conducive
to wildfires, and the project’s location within an urban and developed context within the City also reduces
the project susceptibility to wildland fires. Therefore, the project site is not expected to expose project
occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire, and the
project will not expose people or structures to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland
fires.
The project will provide development of infrastructure (water, sewer, and storm drainage). Additionally,
the project will be required to comply with building standards and guidelines to reduce potential impacts
of fires. The proposed improvements would allow for decreased fire risk. The project would not impair
implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan. Access to the site currently exists via Washington Street, and the project does not propose
changes to these existing access points. As a result, the project is not expected to require the installation or
maintenance of associated infrastructure that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or
ongoing impacts to the environment.
As stated previously, project site currently sits within an urban and developed context within the City of La
Quinta. Areas surrounding the project are defined by the existing St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church to
the north and east of the project, vacant land to the south of the project, and open space natural slopes
associated with the Santa Rosa Mountains foothills west of the project. The slopes of the Santa Rosa
Mountain foothills do not contain substantial vegetative fuel that would result in wildland fires. The
vegetation that exists on the Santa Rosa Mountains is sparse and scattered, therefore, it is unlikely that
wildland fires would occur along this area. Thus, downslope, downstream flooding, or landslides, as a result
of runoff post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes would not occur. Overall, significant impacts are
not anticipated.
Mitigation: None
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21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF
SIGNIFICANCE
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Does the project have the potential to substantially
degrade the quality of the environment, substantially
reduce the habitat of a fish or wildlife species, cause
a fish or wildlife population to drop below self-
sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or
animal community, substantially reduce the number
or restrict the range of a rare or endangered plant or
animal or eliminate important examples of the major
periods of California history or prehistory?
b) Does the project have impacts that are individually
limited, but cumulatively considerable?
("Cumulatively considerable" means that the
incremental effects of a project are considerable
when viewed in connection with the effects of past
projects, the effects of other current projects, and the
effects of probable future projects)?
c) Does the project have environmental effects,
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly?
a) Less than Significant Impact with Mitigation. As concluded in the Biological and Cultural Resources
sections of this document, the proposed project would result in no impacts or less than significant impacts
with mitigation to these resources. The project is compatible with the City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan
and Zoning and its surroundings. The project will not significantly degrade the overall quality of the
region’s environment, or substantially reduce the habitat of a wildlife species, case a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels, threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community, reduce
the number or restrict the range of a rare of endangered plant or animal or eliminate important examples of
the major periods or California history or prehistory. Based upon the information and mitigation measures
provided within this Initial Study, approval and implementation of the project is not expected to
substantially alter or degrade the quality of the environment, including biological, cultural or historical
resources. Less than significant impacts with mitigation are expected.
Mitigation: See Biological Section IV and Cultural Section V.
a) Less than Significant Impact. The project is surrounded by commercial and residential development and
the proposed project and location, is found to be adequate and consistent with existing federal, state and
local policies and is consistent with the City of La Quinta 2035 General Plan and surrounding land use.
Approval and implementation of the proposed project will result in less than significant impacts related to
cumulatively considerable impacts.
Mitigation: None
b) Less than Significant Impact. The proposed project will not result in impacts related to environmental
effects that will cause substantial adverse effects on human beings. The project has been designed to comply
with established design guidelines and current building standards. The City’s review process will ensure
that applicable guidelines are being followed. Based upon the findings provided in this document, and
mitigation measures and standard conditions incorporated into the project, less than significant impacts are
expected.
Mitigation: None