CC Resolution 2024-033 Travertine EA 2017-0008RESOLUTION NO. 2024 — 033
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA
QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING THE ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT REPORT (SCH #2018011023) FOR THE TRAVERTINE
PROJECT CONSISTING OF 1,200 RESIDENTIAL UNITS, 45,000
SQUARE FOOT HOTEL WITH 100 VILLAS, SPA AND WELLNESS
CENTER AND OTHER COMMERCIAL AND RECREATIONAL USES;
ADOPTING ENVIRONMENTAL FINDINGS AND STATEMENT OF
OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS PURSUANT TO THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT; AND ADOPTING A
MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
CASE NUMBER:
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2017-0008
PROJECT: TRAVERTINE
APPLICANT: TRG LAND, INC.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California did, on August 6,
2024, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing to consider Environmental Assessment 2017-
0008 and its Environmental Impact Report (EIR, SCH #2018011023), as mandated by
State law for the Travertine Project ("Proposed Project") consisting of a master -planned
community on approximately 855 acres located south of Avenue 60, north of Avenue 64,
and west of Madison Street, more particularly described as:
Assessor Parcel Numbers (APNs):
766-110-003, 766-110-004, 766-110-007, 766-110-009; 766-120-001, 766-120-002,
766-120-003, 766-120-006, 766-120-015, 766-120-016, 766-120-018, 766-120-021,
766-120-023; 753-040-014, 753-040-016, 753-040-017; 753-050-007, 753-050-029;
753-060-003; 764-280-057, 764-280-059, 754-280-061
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public hearing
notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on July 17, 2024, as prescribed by the Municipal
Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to all property owners within 1,000 feet of
the site, and emailed or mailed to all interested parties who have requested notification
relating to the project; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of La Quinta did adopt Planning
Commission Resolution 2024-008 recommending the City Council adopt Findings and a
Statement of Overriding Consideration and certify Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
at a duly noticed Public Hearing on June 25, 2024; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 21067 of the California Environmental Quality Act
(Pub. Res. Code §§ 21000 et seq.) ("CEQA"), and Section 15367 of the State CEQA
Resolution No. 2024 — 033
Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
Environmental Impact Report SCH #2018011023
Project: Travertine
Adopted: August 6, 2024
Page 2 of 5
Guidelines (Cal. Code Regs., Tit. 14, § 15000 et seq.), the City of La Quinta ("City") is the
Lead Agency for the Proposed Project; and
WHEREAS, the City issued a Notice of Preparation ("NOP") of a Draft EIR for the
Travertine Project on or about March 9, 2020, and it was transmitted to the State
Clearinghouse, local and regional agencies, and posted at the Riverside County Clerk's
office for a 30 -day comment period where comments and participation were sought from
the public and all interested and affected groups and agencies; and
WHEREAS, on or about October 27, 2023, the City published a Notice of
Availability ("NOX) which initiated a 45 -day public review and comment period of the
Draft EIR for public review and comment between October 27 to December 11, 2023; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to State CEQA Guidelines Section 15086, the City consulted
with and requested comments from all responsible and trustee agencies, other regulatory
agencies, and other interested parties during the 45 -day public review and comment
period and received 12 comment letters; and
WHEREAS, the City prepared a Final EIR, consisting of the comments received
during the public review and comment period on the Draft EIR, written responses to those
comments, revisions to the Draft EIR and a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program.
For the purposes of this Resolution, the "EIR" shall refer to the Draft EIR, as revised by
the Final EIR, together with the other sections of the Final EIR; and
WHEREAS, the EIR found that although most environmental impacts can be
reduced to less than significant levels, impacts regarding air quality emissions,
greenhouse gas emissions, and transportation will remain significant and unavoidable;
and
WHEREAS, the environmental impacts identified in the EIR that the Lead Agency
finds are of no impact or constitute a less than significant impact and do not require
mitigation are described in Sections VI and VII of Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the environmental impacts identified in the EIR as potentially
significant but which the Lead Agency finds can be mitigated to a less than significant
level through the incorporation of feasible Mitigation Measures identified in the EIR are
described in Section V of Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the environmental impacts identified in the EIR as potentially
significant but which the Lead Agency finds cannot be mitigated to a less than significant
level, despite the imposition of feasible Mitigation Measures identified in the EIR are
described in Section IV of Exhibit A; and
Resolution No. 2024 — 033
Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
Environmental Impact Report SCH #2018011023
Project: Travertine
Adopted: August 6, 2024
Page 3 of 5
WHEREAS, alternatives to the Proposed Project that might eliminate or reduce
significant environmental impacts are described in Section VIII of Exhibit A; and
WHEREAS, the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program setting forth the
mitigation measures to which the Lead Agency shall bind itself, is attached hereto as
Exhibit B; and
WHEREAS, prior to taking action, the Lead Agency has heard, been presented
with, reviewed, and considered all of the information and data in the administrative record,
including the EIR, and all oral and written evidence presented to it during all meetings;
and
WHEREAS, the EIR reflects the independent judgment of the City Council and is
deemed adequate for purposes of making decisions on the merits of the Proposed
Project; and
WHEREAS, the Lead Agency has not received any comments or additional
information that constituted substantial new information requiring recirculation under
Public Resources Code Section 21092.1 and State CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5;
and
WHEREAS, all the requirements of CEQA, and the State CEQA Guidelines, have
been satisfied by the City in the EIR, which is sufficiently detailed so that all of the
potentially significant environmental effects have been adequately evaluated; and
WHEREAS, all other legal prerequisites to the adoption of this Resolution have
occurred.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La
Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings of the
City Council.
SECTION 2. That the City Council does adopt the Statement of Overriding
Considerations contained in Section IX of Exhibit A, attached hereto and incorporated
herewith by this reference.
SECTION 3. That the City Council hereby adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program for the Proposed Project attached to this Resolution as Exhibit B.
Implementation of the mitigation measures and project design features contained in the
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program is hereby made a condition of approval of
the Proposed Project. In the event of any inconsistencies between the mitigation
Resolution No. 2024 — 033
Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
Environmental Impact Report SCH #2018011023
Project: Travertine
Adopted: August 6, 2024
Page 4 of 5
measures set forth herein and the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, the
Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program shall control.
SECTION 4. That the City Council finds that it has been presented with the EIR, which it
has reviewed and considered, and further finds that the EIR is an accurate and objective
statement that has been completed in full compliance with CEQA, the State CEQA
Guidelines, and the City's Local CEQA Guidelines and that the EIR reflects the
independent judgment and analysis of the City Council.
The City Council declares that no evidence of new significant impacts as defined by the
State CEQA Guidelines section 15088.5 has been received by the City Council after
circulation of the Draft EIR which would require recirculation.
Therefore, the City Council hereby certifies the EIR, based on the entirety of the record
of proceedings.
SECTION 5. That the documents and materials that constitute the record of proceedings
on which this Resolution has been based are located at La Quinta City Hall, 78-495 Calle
Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253. The custodian for these records is the City Clerk of the
City of La Quinta or designee. This information is provided in compliance with Public
Resources Code Section 21081.6(a)(2).
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City of La
Quinta City Council, held on this 6th day of August 2024, by the following vote:
AYES: Councilmember Fitzpatrick, McGarrey, Sanchez, and Mayor Pro Tem
Pena
NOES: None
ABSENT: Mayor Evans
ABSTAIN: None
— (1),� L,
JCIHkVrI A,Mayor Pro Tem
City of a Quit, California
Resolution No. 2024 — 033
Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
Environmental Impact Report SCH #2018011023
Project: Travertine
Adopted: August 6, 2024
Page 5 of 5
ATTEST:
. 6
MONIKA RADEVA, C' y Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
WILLIAM H. IHRKE, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
Resolution No. 2024-033 - Exhibit A
Environmental Assessment 2017-0008
Environmental Impact Report SCH #2018011023
Project: Travertine
Adopted: August 6, 2024
CEQA FINDINGS
and
STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
OF THE CITY COUNCIL
FOR THE CITY OF LA QUINTA
for the
TRAVERTINE SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT PROJECT
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2017-0002
ZONE CHANGE 2017-0002
SPECIFIC PLAN 2017-0004
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 2017-0008 (TTM37387)
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT 2021-0001
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2017-0008
SCH #2018011023
62681026.x4
FINDINGS REQUIRED UNDER
THE CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
(Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
I. INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................1
II. PROJECT DESCRIPTION..................................................................................................3
III. PROJECT ENTITLEMENTS..............................................................................................4
IV. FINDINGS REGARDING SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS ..............4
A. Air Quality...............................................................................................................5
i. Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of the Applicable Air
QualityPlan.................................................................................................5
ii. Result in a Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in VOCs, a
Regulated Pollutant For Which The Project Region is in Non-
Attainment....................................................................................................
5
iii. Mitigation Measures: ...................................................................................
6
iv. Finding Related to the Project's Consistency with Applicable Air
QualityPlan: ................................................................................................
7
V. Finding Related to Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in
on-
VOCs, a Regulated Pollutant for Which the Region is in Non -
Attainment: ..................................................................................................
Attainment:..................................................................................................
7
B. Greenhouse Gas Emissions......................................................................................9
i. Generate GHG Emissions, Either Directly or Indirectly, That May
Have a Significant Impact on the Environment...........................................9
ii. Mitigation Measures: ...................................................................................
9
iii. Finding Related to Potentially Significant and Unavoidable
Increase in Greenhouse Gas Emissions: ....................................................
10
C. Transportation........................................................................................................13
i. Consistency with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision
(b) (VMT)..................................................................................................13
ii. Mitigation Measures: .................................................................................
14
I
iii. Finding Related to Potentially Significant and Unavoidable VMT
Impacts: ...................................................................................................... 14
V. FINDINGS REGARDING POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS WHICH
ARE AVOIDED OR MITIGATED TO A LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL ..........15
A. AESTHETICS........................................................................................................15
i. Impact the Existing Visual Character or Quality of Views in Non -
UrbanizedAreas.........................................................................................15
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 15
iii. Finding Related to the Existing Visual Character or Quality of
Public Views From Offsite Substation: ..................................................... 16
iv. Creation of New Sources of Substantial Light and Glare Which
Would Adversely Affect Day or Nighttime Views....................................17
V. Mitigation Measures:.................................................................................17
vi. Finding Regarding Creation of New Sources of Substantial Light
and Glare Which Would Adversely Affect Day or Nighttime
Views: ........................................................................................................ 18
B. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES...............................................................................19
i. Substantial 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 the U.S. Fish and
WildlifeService.........................................................................................20
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 21
iii. Finding Related to Substantial 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 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service...................................33
iv. Substantial Adverse Effects on Riparian Habitat or Other Sensitive
Natural Community Identified in Local or Regional Plans, Policies,
or Regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and
Wildlife......................................................................................................34
V. Mitigation Measures:.................................................................................34
it
vi. Finding Related to Impacts to Riparian Habitat or Other Sensitive
NaturalCommunity...................................................................................35
C. CULTURAL RESOURCES..................................................................................36
i. Adverse Change in the Significance of a Historical or
Archaeological Resource...........................................................................36
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 37
iii. Finding Related Adverse Changes in the Significance of a
Historical or Archaeological Resource......................................................39
iv. Disturbance of any Human Remains, Including Those Interred
Outside of Dedicated Cemeteries...............................................................40
V. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 40
vi. Finding Related to Disturbance of Human Remains, Including
Those Interred Outside of Dedicated Cemeteries: ..................................... 42
D. GEOLOGY AND SOILS......................................................................................42
i. Directly or Indirectly Cause Potential Substantial Adverse Effects,
Including the Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Strong
Seismic Ground Shaking............................................................................42
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 42
iii. Finding Related Potential Substantial Adverse Effects, Including
the Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Strong Seismic
GroundShaking: ........................................................................................ 43
iv. Potential Substantial Adverse Effects, Including the Risk of Loss,
Injury, or Death Due to Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including
Liquefaction: .............................................................................................. 43
V. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 43
vi. Finding Related to Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including
Liquefaction: .............................................................................................. 44
vii. Substantial Adverse Effects, Including the Risk of Loss, Injury, or
Death Involving Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including
Landslides: ................................................................................................. 45
viii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 45
ix. Finding Related to Substantial Adverse Effects Including the Risk
of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Seismic -Related Ground
Failure, Including Landslides: ................................................................... 46
X. Result in Soil Erosion or Loss of Top Soil................................................47
xi. Mitigation Measures:.................................................................................47
xii. Finding Related to Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil: ................................. 48
xiii. Located on an Unstable Geologic Unit Resulting in Potential for
On -Site or Off-site Lateral Spreading, Subsidence, Liquefaction or
Collapse......................................................................................................49
xiv. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 49
xv. Finding Regarding On -Site or Off-site Lateral Spreading,
Subsidence, Liquefaction or Collapse: ...................................................... 50
xvi. Located on Expansive Soil.........................................................................50
xvii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 51
xviii. Finding Regarding Expansive Soils: .......................................................... 51
xix. Impacts to a Unique Paleontological Resource, Site or Unique
GeologicFeature........................................................................................51
xx. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 52
xxi. Finding: ...................................................................................................... 52
E. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS......................................................................53
i. Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy or Regulation Adopted
for the Purpose of Reducing the Emissions of Greenhouse Gases: ........... 53
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 54
iii. Finding Regarding the Project's Consistency with Applicable
Plans, Policies or Regulations Adopted for the Purpose of
Reducing the Emissions of Greenhouse Gases: ......................................... 55
F. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.................................................56
i. Create a Significant Hazard to the Public or the Environment due
to Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Waste, or
1v
Hazard through Reasonably Foreseeable Upset and Accident
Conditions: ................................................................................................. 56
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 56
iii. Finding Regarding the Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of
Hazardous Materials:.................................................................................58
iv. Located on a Hazardous Materials Site: .................................................... 60
V. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 60
vi. Finding Related to Location on a Hazardous Materials Site: .................... 61
G. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY...........................................................62
i. Result in Substantial Erosion or Siltation On- or Off -Site or
Impede or Redirect Flood Flows................................................................62
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 63
iii. Finding Regarding Substantial Erosion or Siltation On- or Off -Site
or Impede or Redirect Flood Flows: .......................................................... 63
iv. Result in Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones, Risk of
Release from Project Inundation: ............................................................... 64
V. Mitigation Measures:.................................................................................64
vi. Finding Regarding Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones, Risk
of Release from Project Inundation...........................................................65
H. NOISE....................................................................................................................65
i. Generation of Temporary Increase in Ambient Noise Levels in the
Vicinity of the Project................................................................................65
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 66
iii. Finding Regarding Generation of Temporary Increase in Ambient
Noise Levels in the Vicinity of the Project: ............................................... 66
I. PUBLIC SERVICES.............................................................................................68
i. Result in Substantial Adverse Physical Impacts Associated with
the Provision of New or Physically Altered Governmental
Facilities, Need for New or Physically Altered Facilities, the
Construction of Which Could Cause Significant Environmental
VA
Impacts, In Order to Maintain Acceptable Service Ratios,
Response Times or Other Performance Objectives for Fire
Protection................................................................................................... 68
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 68
iii. Finding Regarding Substantial Adverse Physical Impacts
Associated With the Provision of New or Physically Altered
Governmental Facilities, the Construction of Which Could Cause
Significant Environmental Impacts in Order to Maintain
Acceptable Response Times for Fire Protection: ....................................... 71
J. TRANSPORTATION............................................................................................72
i. Consistency with an Applicable Plan or Policy Addressing the
CirculationSystem.....................................................................................72
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 73
iii. Finding Regarding Consistency with Applicable Plan or Policy
Addressing Circulation System: ................................................................ 73
iv. Substantially Increase Hazards Due to Geometric Design Features
or Incompatible Uses.................................................................................74
V. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 74
vi. Finding Regarding Hazards Due to Geometric Design Features or
Incompatible Uses: ..................................................................................... 75
vii. Emergency Access.....................................................................................76
viii. Mitigation Measures:.................................................................................76
ix. Finding Regarding Emergency Access: ..................................................... 77
K. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES...................................................................77
i. Impacts to Significant Tribal Cultural Resources......................................77
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 78
iii. Finding Regarding Impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources: ........................ 82
L. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS..............................................................84
vi
i. Require or Result in Construction of New or Expanded Facilities
for Water, Wastewater, Drainage or Utilities, the Construction of
Which May Cause Significant Environmental Effects..............................84
ii. Mitigation Measures: ................................................................................. 85
iii. Finding Related to Impacts of New Drainage and Electrical Utility
Infrastructure: ............................................................................................. 85
VI. FINDINGS REGARDING IMPACTS DETERMINED TO BE LESS THAN
SIGNIFICANT..................................................................................................................87
A. AESTHETICS........................................................................................................87
i. Effects on a Scenic Vista...........................................................................87
ii. Finding Regarding Scenic Vistas: .............................................................. 87
iii. Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway.....................................87
iv. Finding Regarding Scenic Resources within a State Scenic
Highway: .................................................................................................... 88
B. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY RESOURCES ................. 88
i. Convert Prime, Unique, or Statewide Importance Farmland to
Non -Agricultural Use or Involve other Changes that could Result
in Conversion of Farmland to Non -Agricultural Use................................88
ii. Conflict with Existing Zoning for Agricultural Use or Williamson
ActContract...............................................................................................88
iii. Conflict with Zoning for Forest Land, Timberland, or Timberland
Production or Result in Loss of Forest Land or Conversion of
Forest Land to Non -Forest Use..................................................................88
iv. Findings Regarding Conversion of Agricultural Lands to Non -
Agricultural Uses, Conflicts with Existing Zoning for Agricultural
Use or Williamson Act Contract, or Conflicts with Existing Zoning
for Forest Land, Timberland, Timberland Production, or Convert a
Forest Use to Non -Forest Uses: ................................................................. 89
C. AIR QUALITY......................................................................................................90
i. Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant
Concentrations...........................................................................................90
ii. Result in Other Emissions (i.e., objectionable odors)................................90
vii
iii.
Findings Regarding Localized Air Quality Impacts and Odors: ...............
90
D. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES...............................................................................92
i.
Substantial Adverse Effect on Federally Protected Wetlands ...................
92
ii.
Interfere Substantially with the Movement of Any Native Resident
or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or Wildlife Corridors ....................
92
iii.
Conflict with Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological
Resources...................................................................................................92
iv.
Conflict with the Provisions of an Adopted Habitat Conservation
Plan............................................................................................................92
V.
Findings Regarding: ...................................................................................
93
E. ENERGY...............................................................................................................94
i.
Consumption of Energy Resources............................................................94
ii.
Consistency with a State or Local Plan for Renewable Energy or
EnergyEfficiency......................................................................................94
iii.
Findings Regarding Energy Resources Impacts and Consistency
with State or Local Plans for Renewable Energy or Energy
Efficiency: ..................................................................................................
94
F. GEOLOGY AND SOILS......................................................................................96
i.
Direct or Indirect Effects Involving Soil Rupture:....................................96
ii.
Soils Incompatible to Support Septic Tanks or Alternative Waste
WaterDisposal: ..........................................................................................
96
iii.
Findings Regarding Soil Rupture and Soils Impacts of Septic
Tanks and Waste Water Disposal: .............................................................
97
G. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.................................................97
i.
Emit Hazardous Emissions or Materials within One -Quarter Mile
ofa School.................................................................................................97
ii.
Located within an Airport Land Use Plan.................................................97
iii.
Effect on an Emergency Response Plan....................................................97
iv.
Risk of Wildfires........................................................................................98
viii
V. Finding Regarding Hazardous Emissions Near Schools, Airports,
Effects on Emergency Response Plans, and Risk of Wildfire: .................. 98
H. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY...........................................................99
i. Compliance with Water Quality Standards or Waste Discharge
Requirements.............................................................................................99
ii. Effect on Groundwater Supplies or Interference with Groundwater
Recharge....................................................................................................99
iii. Result in On- or Off-site Flooding ...........................................................100
iv. Create Runoff Which Would Exceed the Capacity of Existing or
Planned Stormwater Drainage Systems...................................................100
V. Consistency with Water Quality Control Plan or Sustainable
Groundwater Management Plan..............................................................101
vi. Findings Regarding Compliance with Water Quality Standards,
Effect on Groundwater Supplies and Recharge, Flooding, Runoff,
and Consistency with Water Quality Control Plan and Sustainable
Groundwater Management Plan: ............................................................. 101
I. LAND USE..........................................................................................................103
i. Division of an Established Community ...................................................103
ii. Consistency with Any Land Use Plan, Policy or Regulation..................103
iii. Findings Regarding Division of an Established Community and
Land Use Plan, Policy and Regulation Consistency: ............................... 104
J. NOISE..................................................................................................................106
i. Generation of Ground Borne Vibration ...................................................106
ii. Finding Regarding Ground Borne Vibration: .......................................... 106
K. POPULATION AND HOUSING........................................................................106
i. Induce Direct or Indirect Unplanned Growth..........................................106
ii. Displace People or Housing Resulting in the Need for New
Housing....................................................................................................106
iii. Findings Regarding Induced Growth and Displacement of People
orHousing: ............................................................................................... 107
ix
L. PUBLIC SERVICES...........................................................................................108
i.
Impact Police Services, Schools, Parks, and Other Facilities..................108
ii.
Finding Regarding Impact to Police Services, School, Parks and
OtherFacilities: ........................................................................................
108
M. RECREATION
....................................................................................................109
i.
Result in Deterioration of Parks or Require Construction or
Expansion of Recreational Facilities .......................................................109
ii.
Finding Regarding Deterioration of Parks and Recreational
Facilities: ..................................................................................................
110
N. UTILITIES
AND SERVICE SYSTEMS............................................................111
i.
Require or Result in Construction of New or Expanded Facilities
for Water, Wastewater, Drainage or Utilities, the Construction of
Which May Cause Significant Environmental Effects ............................111
ii.
Sufficiency of Water Supplies.................................................................112
iii.
Wastewater Treatment System Capacity .................................................112
iv.
Generate Excess Solid Waste...................................................................113
V.
Comply with Statutes and Regulations Related to Solid Waste..............113
vi.
Findings Regarding New and Expanded Utilities, Water Supplies,
Wastewater Treatment System Capacity, and Solid Waste: ....................
113
O. WILDFIRE..........................................................................................................117
i.
Substantially Impair an Adopted Emergency Response Plan or
EvacuationPlan.......................................................................................117
ii.
Exacerbate Wildfire Risks and Pollutant Concentrations ........................117
iii.
Require Installation or Maintenance of Infrastructure that will
Exacerbate Fire Risk................................................................................118
iv.
Expose People or Structures to Significant Risks including
Downslope, Downstream Flooding or Landslides, as a Result of
Runoff, Post-Fire Slope Instability, or Drainage Changes ......................118
x
V. Findings Regarding Impairment of Emergency Response Plan,
Wildfire Risk, Fire Risk, and Downslope and Downstream
Flooding or Landslides: ........................................................................... 118
VII. FINDINGS REGARDING IMPACTS DETERMINED TO HAVE NO IMPACT........ 120
A. MINERAL RESOURCES................................................................................... 120
i. Effects on the loss of availability of a known mineral resource or
locally important mineral resource ..........................................................120
ii. Finding Regarding Mineral Resources: ................................................... 120
VIII. FINDINGS REGARDING ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED IN THE EIR...................121
IX. STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS ..............................................124
X. FINDINGS REGARDING CERTIFICATION OF FINAL EIR.....................................129
xi
Final EIR SCH No. 2018011023
EA2017-0008
GPA 2017-0002, ZC 2017-0002, SP 2017-0004, TTM 2017-0008, DA 2021-0001
I. INTRODUCTION.
The City of La Quinta ("City") prepared an Environmental Impact Report ("EIR") for the proposed
Travertine Specific Plan Amendment Project ("Project") in compliance with the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA; Public Resources Code Section 21000 et seq.) and the State
CEQA Guidelines (14 California Code of Regulations Section 15000 et seq.). The City is the
CEQA Lead Agency for the Project. The EIR identifies potentially significant environmental
effects to Aesthetics, Air Quality, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology and Soils,
Greenhouse Gas Emissions, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Hydrology and Water Quality,
Noise, Public Services, Transportation, Tribal Cultural Resources, and Utilities.
Where an EIR has been certified which identifies significant effects on the environment that would
occur if the project is approved or carried out, Public Resources Code Section 21081 and State
CEQA Guidelines Section 15091 require the CEQA Lead Agency to make one or more of the
following written findings with respect to each significant effect:
(1) Changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the project which
mitigate, avoid or substantially lessen the significant effects on the environment.
(2) Such changes or alterations are within the responsibility and jurisdiction of another
public agency and have been or can and should be, adopted by that other agency.
(3) Specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including
considerations for the provision of employment opportunities for highly trained
workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or alternatives identified in the
EIR.
Pursuant to Public Resources Code Section 21081(a)(3) and State CEQA Guidelines Section
15091(a)(3), and for the reasons detailed in Section IV below, the City finds that the Project will
result in potentially significant and unavoidable impacts to Air Quality (conflict with applicable
air quality plan due to significant operational emissions of Volatile Organic Compounds (in later
phases of Project development, and potentially significant VOC emissions), Greenhouse Gases
(increases in emissions of greenhouse gases in 2031 and 20145 that are associated with the
Project), and Transportation (less than a 15 percent reduction in vehicle miles traveled (VMT) per
resident on a Citywide basis, with a per resident VMT of 12.59, as compared to the Citywide per
resident VMT of 12.98) even after all feasible mitigation measures recommended in the
Draft/Final EIR are implemented.
As detailed in Section V below, the City further finds that for each of the potentially significant
effects identified in the EIR, other than the two Air Quality, one Greenhouse Gas emissions, and
one Transportation impact identified above, changes or alterations have been required in, or
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incorporated into, the Project which will avoid or substantially lessen each of the significant
environmental effects and that such effects will therefore not result in significant effects on the
environment.
While not required by CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines, the City further finds that the Project
will not result in significant impacts with respect to the Aesthetics, Agricultural Resources and
Forest Resources, Air Quality, Biological, Energy, Geology and Soils, Hazards and Hazardous
Materials, Hydrology and Water Quality, Land Use, Noise, Population and Housing, Population
and Housing, Public Services, Recreation, Utilities and Service Systems, Wildfire effects detailed
in Section VI below.
As detailed in Section VII below, the City further finds that the environmentally superior
alternatives identified in the EIR (Alternative 1/ No Project Alternative and Alternative 3/Phase 1
Only) are infeasible because neither environmentally superior alternative would meet the majority
of the Project objectives to the same degree as the proposed Project, and is otherwise infeasible
and undesirable for the reasons stated herein. Specifically, the City finds that Alternative 3/Phase
1 Only, is infeasible because it does not meet to the same degree as the proposed Project the City's
objective of facilitating attainment of the City's Regional Housing Needs Allocation targets for
new residential construction, or of developing a project that will generate to the same degree a
sustainable diversified increase to the City's tax revenue stream.
For purposes of the Findings set forth herein, the record of proceedings consists of the following:
• The City's General Plan, as amended, and all environmental documents relating
thereto;
• The Draft EIR for the Project, including all Appendices thereto and all supporting
materials referenced or relied upon therein;
• The Final EIR for the Project, including all comments on the Draft EIR, all responses
thereto, and all supporting materials referenced therein;
• The draft Travertine Specific Plan Amendment and all other application materials
relating to the Project, as amended;
• All memoranda, notes, communications, studies, analyses, and reports relating to the
Project, including all supporting materials referenced therein, that are proper part of the
CEQA administrative record under Public Resources Code section 21167.6;
• These Findings made by the City and the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program ("MMRP") adopted by the City for the Project;
• All final City Staff reports relating to the Draft EIR, the Final EIR and/or the Project;
• All other testimony, reports, documents, studies, memoranda, maps, or other
documents relating to the Project, the Draft EIR or the Final EIR that are proper part of
the CEQA administrative record under Public Resources Code section 21167.6 and that
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were prepared by the City, consultants to the City, or responsible or trustee agencies,
or submitted to the City prior to the close of the City Council hearing on the Project;
• All matters of common knowledge to the City, including but not limited to the City's
policies, guidelines and regulations.
The official custodian of the documents and other materials that constitute the record of
proceedings is:
City of La Quinta
Planning Division
78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
Phone: 760-777-7000
Hours: Monday — Thursday 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. and Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00
p.m.
Copies of all these documents, which constitute the record of proceedings upon which the City's
decision is based, are, and at all relevant times have been, available upon request at the offices of
the City, the custodian for such documents.
IL PROJECT DESCRIPTION.
The proposed Project includes development of a mix of uses including up to 1,200 dwelling units
of varying residential product types and two community parks (east and west) on 378.8 acres; a
38.3 -acre resort/spa facility with a 45,000 -square -foot boutique hotel with a 175 -seat restaurant,
97,500 square feet of resort villas, and 8,700 square feet of spa and wellness center, as well as
yoga and tennis courts; a 46.2 -acre resort/golf facility with a 5,500 -square -foot golf academy, a
1,000 -square -foot clubhouse, and 10,000 -square -foot banquet restaurant (500 -seat capacity). The
Project also proposes recreational open space consisting of a 5 -mile public trail system, staging
areas, gathering areas, and passive and active spaces on approximately 55.9 acres. Natural open
space land uses are proposed to occur on approximately 301.2 acres on the southern portion of the
Project property. The Project also includes supporting drainage, water and wastewater and dry
utility infrastructure on the Project property as well as outside the Project property that is described
in greater detail in Section 3.8 of Chapter 3.0, Project Description, of the Draft EIR (Infrastructure
Plan). The Project property and immediately adjacent off-site improvements associated with the
Specific Plan Amendment comprise 969 acres.
Access to the Project includes a southerly extension of Jefferson Street from a future development
contemplated in the General Plan and Tentative Tract 33444 located west of Jefferson Street and
south of Avenue 60, as well as the westerly extension of Avenue 62. These roadways will extend
into the Project property and create a spine roadway that will provide access to the neighborhood
communities. Entries into the neighborhoods will be enhanced with roundabouts and gated access
areas.
The off-site utility field included in the EIR Project description comprises reasonably foreseeable
utility infrastructure, but also has independent utility because it is needed to support planned
growth in the City, including the Project. The precise location of this infrastructure is not yet
known, accordingly these facilities are analyzed at a programmatic level and include a 2.5 -acre
Imperial Irrigation District (IID) substation and up to five future Coachella Valley Water District
(CVWD) well sites.
A detailed Project description is provided at pages 3-1 through 3-65 of the Draft EIR, which
description is incorporated in full by reference herein.
III. PROJECT ENTITLEMENTS.
The applicant is requesting approval of the following entitlements, which if approved, would allow
for and govern the development of the Project site:
• Specific Plan Amendment- Travertine Specific Plan Amendment (SP SP2017-0004) to
amend the 1995 Travertine and Green Specific Plan to be consistent with the Project as
described above.
• General Plan Amendment- A General Plan Amendment (GPA 2017-0002) will (1)
revise the Circulation Element Roadway Classification Map to remove Madison Street
as a General Plan Roadway from south of Avenue 60 to Avenue 62, realign Jefferson
Street within the boundaries of the Specific Plan; and (2) amend the Land Use Map to
reflect the new land use designations proposed in the Specific Plan Amendment.
• Zone Change- The proposed Zone Change (ZC 2017-0002) will revise the existing
zoning map to be consistent with General Plan Amendment and Specific Plan
Amendment described above.
• Tentative Tract Map- The Tentative Tract Map (TTM 2017-0008) subdivides the
property into smaller parcels for financing and development phasing but does not
include the creation of individual lots for development of housing, proposed trails or
the location of proposed gates. Future TTMs may be filed with each phase of
development as necessary to implement the Project.
• Development Agreement- The Development Agreement (DA 2021-0001) would set
forth the respective enforceable obligations of the applicant and the City, including the
special terms beneficial and mutually agreeable to both the City and the property owner
to facilitate Project development, and will vest the Project approvals.
IV. FINDINGS REGARDING SIGNIFICANT AND UNAVOIDABLE IMPACTS
This section identifies the significant unavoidable impacts that require a Statement of Overriding
Considerations to be issued by the City upon approval of the Project. Based on the analysis
contained in the Final EIR, the following impacts to air quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and
transportation have been determined to be significant and unavoidable, after all feasible mitigation
measures have been considered and adopted. These unavoidable impacts are overridden by the
project benefits set forth in the Statement of Overriding Considerations in Section VIII, below.
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Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(3) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(3) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City of La Quinta finds that, for each of the following significant effects,
changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which mitigate or
avoid these significant effects on the environment to the maximum extent feasible. Nevertheless,
the City of La Quinta further finds that for each of the significant effects, specific economic, legal,
social, technological, or other considerations, including the provision of employment opportunities
for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or alternatives identified in
the Draft/Final EIR. However, the City finds that with respect to the significant and unavoidable
impacts described below, specific overriding economic, legal, social, technological or other
benefits of the Project outweigh the significant effects on the environment, as more fully described
in Section VIII below, which is hereby incorporated by this reference. These findings are
explained below and are supported by substantial evidence in the record of proceedings.
A. AIR QUALITY.
i. Conflict with or Obstruct Implementation of the Applicable Air Quality Plan:
A significant air quality impact could occur if the Project is not consistent with the applicable Air
Quality Management Plan (AQMP) or would obstruct the implementation of the policies or hinder
reaching the goals of that plan. The criteria for determining consistency with the AQMP are
defined in Chapter 12, Section 12.2 and Section 12.3 of the South Coast Air Quality Management
District (AQMD) Handbook (1993 CEQA Handbook). Consistency criteria 1 provides that a
project is consistent with the AQMP if it 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. A
project will result in a violation of California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS) and
National Ambient Air Quality Standards (NAAQS) if it exceeds localized CEQA significance
thresholds for such pollutants. As discussed in Draft EIR Section 4.3, Project operations have the
potential to exceed the applicable CEQA significance threshold for VOCs (Volatile Organic
Compounds) starting in Phase 2 through Phase 3 of the Project. Accordingly, the Project conflicts
with the AQMP.
ii. Result in a Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in VOCs, a Regulated
Pollutant For Which The Project Region is in Non -Attainment:
CAAQS and NAAQS violations would occur if regional or localized significance thresholds were
exceeded. As discussed in Draft EIR Section 4.3, Project operations have the potential to exceed
the applicable thresholds for VOCs starting in Phase 2 through Phase 3. The majority of VOC
emissions are derived from consumer products and mobile sources. The control of such sources
is primarily linked to CARB regulations. Specifically, VOC emissions from mobile sources are
attributed primarily to CARB's vehicle emissions standards, while consumer product VOC sources
are regulated under CARB's Consumer Products Regulatory Program. CARB is continually
reviewing and implementing strategies to lower vehicle emissions and reactivity of household
products, such as cleaning supplies and aerosols.
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iii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential conflicts with applicable air quality plans, the following mitigation measures
are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
AQ -2 The Project applicant must comply with South Coast AQMD Rule 445
(Wood -Burning Devices), as amended, by explicitly prohibiting the use of
wood burning stoves and fireplaces in the proposed new development.
Mitigation Measures to Reduce VOCs from Mobile Sources:
AQ -3 The Project operator shall provide and/or accommodate facilities within the
Project property, such as bicycle parking and storage, to encourage bicycle
use instead of driving as a method to reduce or otherwise eliminate certain
vehicle trips within the Project area.
AQ -4 The Project operator of the on-site resort facilities shall implement
procedures to accommodate remote work or telecommuting, as applicable
to the work sectors, as a method to reduce commercial vehicle miles
traveled.
AQ -5 The Project operator shall encourage the use of low emission vehicles to
reduce the reliance on gasoline or diesel fuel by providing charging stations
and designated parking for emissions free vehicles.
Mitigation Measures to Reduce VOCs from Consumer Products:
AQ -6 The Project operator shall utilize "Super -Compliant' or otherwise non -
aerosol dispersal/application methods (and/or low VOC products) in all
Commercial Buildings including the Hotel, Spa and Golf Training Facility.
This includes but is not limited to: air fresheners, cooking spray, floor
maintenance products, furniture maintenance products, degreaser, oven
cleaners, toilet care products. Project operators can refer to the CARB
Consumer Product Program web site for the most current information.
AQ -7 The Project operator shall utilize low VOC products to the greatest degree
possible on all landscape maintenance activities associated with the
Commercial Buildings, Golf Training grounds and Common Landscape
Areas. These shall be applied with non -aerosol measures where possible.
Applicable products include insecticides, pesticides, pool/spa disinfectants,
grill cleaners. Project operators can refer to the CARB Consumer Product
Program web site for the most current information.
AQ -8 The Project operator shall require all commercial products to be diluted as
directed.
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AQ -9 The Project operator shall use low -solvent or solvent -free paints shall be
used for all commercial buildings and common area monumentation or
walls (including repairs).
AQ -10 The Project operator shall minimize the use of pesticides with high organic
solvent contents, and/or the use of emulsions and water-based formulations.
iv. Finding Related to the Project's Consistency with Applicable Air Quality
Plan:
The City Council finds that, for the significant effects related to the Project's consistency with
applicable air quality plans described above and further discussed in the Final EIR, the Project
avoids or substantially lessens such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR
to the maximum extent feasible. Specifically, implementation of the mitigation measures AQ -2
through AQ -10, as described and recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the
City and are enforceable through the MMRP, Development Agreement, and project conditions of
approval, will reduce construction and operational priority pollutants to the maximum extent
feasible.
The City of La Quinta further finds that despite implementation of all mitigations identified in the
Draft EIR, operational emissions of VOC will remain a significant effect of the Project, and
specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including the provision of
employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or
alternatives, if any, identified in the Final EIR. Because the City has found that despite the
implementation of all mitigations identified in the Draft EIR, effects on this criteria will remain
significant, the City adopts the Statement of Overriding Considerations included in Part IX hereof.
V. Finding Related to Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in VOCs, a
Regulated Pollutant for Which the Region is in Non -Attainment:
The City Council finds that, for the significant effects related to the Project's cumulatively
considerable net increase in VOCs described above and further discussed in the Final EIR, the
Project avoids or substantially lessens such significant environmental effects as identified in the
Final EIR to the maximum extent feasible. Specifically, implementation of the mitigation measures
AQ -2 through AQ -10, as described and recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted
by the City and are enforceable through the MMRP, Development Agreement, and project
conditions of approval, will reduce construction and operational priority pollutants to the
maximum extent feasible.
The City of La Quinta further finds that despite implementation of all mitigations identified in the
Draft EIR, operational emissions of VOC will remain a significant effect of the Project, and
specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including the provision of
employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or
alternatives, if any, identified in the Final EIR.
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Facts in Support of Findings:
VOC emissions from mobile sources are attributed primarily to CARB's vehicle emissions
standards, while consumer product VOC sources are regulated under CARB's Consumer Products
Regulatory Program. CARB is continually reviewing and implementing strategies to lower vehicle
emissions and reactivity of household products, such as cleaning supplies and aerosols. The Project
operations are not precluded from being regulated or forming part of future statewide controls over
these sources. However, until such measures are in place, it is necessary to implement various air
quality mitigation measures aimed at reducing VMTs and the presence of VOCs in applicable
consumer products, as presented in MM AQ -3 through AQ -10. The Project also incorporates
Mitigation Measure MM AQ -2, prompting the applicant to comply with SCAQMD Rule 445 by
prohibiting the use of wood burning stoves and fireplaces in the proposed new development,
therefore eliminating the source of VOCs that would otherwise be present in woodburning devices.
Even after implementation of the said measures and mitigation aimed at reducing VOCs, the
Project may not be able to achieve a sufficient reduction to comply with the applicable SCAQMD
threshold and would therefore result in or cause violations of the CAAQS and NAAQS.
The 2016 AQMP and 2022 AQMP identify enforceable control strategies which demonstrate that
the applicable ambient air quality standards can be achieved within the timeframes required under
federal law. The 2016 AQMP incorporates scientific and technological information and planning
assumptions, including the 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities
Strategy (2016-2040 RTP/SCS) while 2022 AQMP relies on the more recent 2020-2045 RTP/SCS,
which was adopted by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) in September
of 2020. Growth projections from local general plans adopted by cities in the district are provided
to the SCAG, which develops regional population growth forecasts, which are then used to develop
future air quality forecasts for the AQMP. Development consistent with the growth projections in
City of La Quinta General Plan is considered to be consistent with the 2016 and the 2022 AQMP.
As concluded in the Population and Housing section, the Project could potentially result in a 7.6
percent population increase of the current City population, which is less than the approved specific
plan and is consistent with City and regional growth projections. Additionally, the population
increase associated with the Project would account for approximately 33 percent of the remaining
capacity for population growth anticipated by SCAG in their 2016-2040 RTC/SCS and 2020-2045
RTP/SCS.
Although the proposed Project will result in an overall reduction in Project intensity compared to
the approved Travertine and Green Specific Plan, Project buildout would still exceed the
applicable SCAQMD regional threshold for operational -source activity for emissions of VOCs.
For the above reasons, while the Project proposes a reduced development relative to the previously
approved Travertine Specific Plan, because Project operations would result in potentially
significant and unavoidable VOC emissions, the Project would conflict with implementation of
the AQMP.
Operational -source emissions for the Project, however, will not be reduced to less than significant
levels after implementation of Mitigation Measure AQ -2 because emissions of VOC will exceed
the SCAQMD regional thresholds (Draft EIR Table 4.3-7). It is important to note that the majority
of VOC emissions are derived from consumer products, followed by mobile sources. For analytical
purposes, consumer products include cleaning supplies, aerosols, and other consumer products.
Pertaining to operations, the Project incorporates Mitigation Measure MM AQ -2, prompting the
applicant to comply with SCAQMD Rule 445 (Wood -Burning Devices) by prohibiting the use of
wood burning stoves and fireplaces in the proposed new development. The purpose of this rule by
SCAQMD is to reduce the emission of particulate matter from woodburning devices for the
reduction of VOCs. Therefore, implementation of MM AQ -2 would employ the available
compliance measure to help reduce the contribution to VOCs and ozone but would not result in a
numeric reduction capable of off -setting the various sources of VOCs associated with the Project.
As such, the Project cannot meaningfully control the use of consumer products. On this basis, it is
concluded that Project operational -source VOC emissions cannot be definitively reduced below
applicable SCQMD thresholds. Therefore, pertaining to Regional Operational Emissions,
operational emission levels associated with Phase 1 would be below the established thresholds and
would be considered less than significant, but buildout of the Project with all three phases is
expected to result in potentially significant and unavoidable emissions of VOCs.
B. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.
i. Generate GHG Emissions, Either Directly or Indirectly, That May Have a
Significant Impact on the Environment:
As shown on Table 4.8-3 in the Draft EIR, the Project would result in emissions of 5.05 metric
tons of carbon dioxide equivalent gases per service population per year (MTCO2e/SP/Yr)
compared to the qualitative GHG significance thresholds relied upon in the Draft EIR. As
discussed in the Draft EIR, in addition to analyzing Project consistency with the City's Climate
action Plan, in order to evaluate the significance of Project GHG emissions, the City has also relied
on declining quantitative significance thresholds through 2045, with a significance threshold of
2.41 metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent gases per service population per year
(MTCO2e/SP/Yr) in 2031 and 0.72 MTCO2e/SP/Yr in 2045. As shown on Table 4.8-3 in the Draft
EIR, the Project would result in emissions of 5.05 MTCO2e/SP/Yr. The Project would thus exceed
applicable quantitative significance thresholds before accounting for implementation of all feasible
mitigation measures.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential impacts concerning GHG emissions, the following mitigation measures are
hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
GHG-1: Prior to the issuance of occupancy permits, the project applicant shall
purchase a minimum of approximately 408,720 MTCO2e credits
(approximately 13,624 MTCO2e per year for 30 years). The purchase of
carbon credits must be made from a CARB-approved carbon registry with
independent third -party verification. Examples of approved registries
include the American Carbon Registry, Climate Action Reserve, and Verra.
The applicant shall submit documentation of the offset purchase to the City
demonstrating that it mitigates a minimum of approximately 13,624
MTCO2e per year (408,720 MTCO2e over a 30 -year period), prior to any
occupancy of the site. Alternatively, the Project applicant may submit a
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GHG reduction plan to the City for approval that achieves an equal level of
GHG reduction outlined herein. The GHG plan must include enforceable
actions that reduce GHG emissions to at or below the total mitigated values
presented herein.
GHG-2: All residences shall incorporate roof -top solar panels, in-home batteries and
EV charger stations to facilitate use of EVs, golf carts and other low -speed
electric vehicles (LSEVs).
GHG-3: All planned single-family homes shall be electric -ready and shall include
electrical circuits for space heating, water heating, cooking/ovens, and
clothes dryers, electrical panel, branch circuits, and transfer switch for
battery storage.
GHG-4: Dedicated circuits and panels in residential and commercial buildings shall
be provided to easily convert from natural gas to electric in the future.
GHG-5: All non-residential components of the development where vehicle parking
is provided shall provide EV chargers.
GHG-6: All household and other appliances shall be of the highest energy efficiency
rating, such as Energy Star, practicable at the time of purchase.
GHG-7: To limit and reduce energy use associated with water consumption, all
project landscaping shall be desert and other drought tolerant vegetation,
consistent with the local development standards. The use of turf shall be
kept to a minimum.
GHG-8: All HVAC systems shall be Very High Efficiency HVAC (SEER 16/80%
AFUE or 9 HSPF) or greater efficiency.
GHG-9: All domestic hot water systems shall be Very High Efficiency Water Heater
(0.92 Energy Factor) with Enhanced Solar Pre -heat System (min. 0.35 Net
Solar Fraction).
GHG-10: All potable water fixtures shall have EPA WaterSense Certification or
greater efficiency.
iii. Finding Related to Potentially Significant and Unavoidable Increase in
Greenhouse Gas Emissions:
The City Council of the City of La Quinta finds that impacts associated with GHG emissions
generated by the Project are considered significant. Specifically, the project design features,
including the Project's mix of complimentary uses and enhanced connectivity that reduce vehicle
miles traveled, and the increased energy and water efficiency measures, substantially reduce the
project's GHG emissions. In addition, Mitigation Measure GHG-1 requires the purchase of carbon
credits to partially offset the GHG emissions that will be generated by the Project. Nevertheless,
the City of La Quinta further finds that while implementation of Mitigation Measure GHG-1
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through GHG-10 would offset the GHG emissions generated by the project that are in excess of
the applicable threshold, by reducing GHG emissions elsewhere through the purchase of carbon
credits among other measures, carbon credits have not been widely used as mitigation for GHG
emissions for residential and resort projects in the Coachella Valley, and therefore, the City finds
that there is some uncertainty as to whether the purchase of carbon credits adequately and fully
mitigates the project's impacts relating to GHG emissions to a less than significant level. Because
the feasibility of mitigation cannot be determined, the City conservatively finds that the Project's
impacts related to an increase in GHG emissions is significant and unavoidable.
The City has not been provided with substantial evidence that local hire provisions are capable of
reducing or avoiding the Project's potentially significant GHG emissions or VMT impacts. As
reflected in Table 4.8-4 of the DEIR, GHG emissions from construction would account for
approximately 5.5% of the Project's total GHG emissions, including operational emissions (before
mitigation). The letter from Soil Water Air Protection Enterprise (SWAPE) dated March 8, 2021,
provides calculations for GHG emissions reductions resulting from local hire provisions being
applied to the Project's construction. The letter concludes that if a local hire provision with a 10 -
mile radius were implemented, the GHG emissions associated with Project construction would
decrease by approximately 17%. However, this estimation should be qualified by the following
limitations.
First, the SWAPE letter and the calculations provided therein, utilized data and information related
to a different project in a separate jurisdiction, the Village South Specific Plan and City of
Claremont, respectively. Second, the SWAPE letter used modeling from CalEEMod 2016 while
the current version available is CalEEMod 2022.1. Third, the vehicle emissions estimate in the
SWAPE letter do not pertain to the Project and are not based on the correct, latest mathematic
modeling. The SWAPE letter used EMFAC2014 data, a modeling software to calculate vehicle
emissions; however, EMFAC2021 is the latest modeling. Finally, the SWAPE letter states it ran a
model "reducing all worker trip lengths to 10 miles ...." (SWAPE Letter, page 4 [emphasis
added].) Thus, the SWAPE letter assumes a local hire program would result in a project's
construction force consisting of 100% local residents, each located within 10 miles of the project
site. When local hire programs are used in practice, most local hire programs result in only a small
percentage of a project's construction workers being local residents.
Even if a local hire program resulted in 30% of the Project's employees being local residents, this
would result in insignificant GHG emissions reductions. Using the 30% figure and extrapolating
from the SWAPE letter's assumption that a 100% local resident workforce would reduce
construction -related GHG emissions by 17% (and assuming those impacts are transferrable to the
Project), this would mean a local hire program for the Project would result in a 5.1% reduction in
construction -related GHG emissions (30% of 17%). This would represent a reduction of 45.55
MTCO2e of construction related GHG emissions, or approximately 1.73% of the Project's
construction and operational mitigated emissions combined (2,627.07 MTCO2e of construction
and operational GHG emissions). This would represent approximately 0.28% of the Project's
unmitigated emissions (16,251.07 MTCO2e) and would not constitute a significant reduction in
GHG emissions. Therefore, the implementation of a local -hire provision as a mitigation measure
would be ineffective in reducing GHG emissions.
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Furthermore, the City has not been provided with any documentation that the 30% goal discussed
in the SWAPE letter is even achievable given the construction workforce demands of this Project.
The City has undertaken reasonable and good faith efforts to discover and identify potentially
feasible mitigation measures capable of reducing the Project's potentially significant GHG impacts
to below a level of significance. Notably, the DEIR and underlying technical reports do not rely
on any emissions reductions associated with GHG emissions reductions associated with the roof-
top solar and EV charging measures implemented through Mitigation Measures GHG-2 and GHG-
5 to reduce the Project's GHG impacts to a less than significant level. In this manner, the DEIR
conservatively considers the Project to have a significant and unavoidable impact.
Notwithstanding this, the Project and future development would be subject to photovoltaic solar
and EV charging requirements pursuant to Title 24 requirements.
The City finds that these specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations,
including the provision of employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible
the mitigation measures or alternatives, if any, identified in the Final EIR. Because the City has
found that despite the implementation of all mitigations identified in the Draft EIR, effects on this
criterion will remain significant, the City adopts the Statement of Overriding Considerations
included in Part IX hereof.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The project would result in 5.05 MTCO2e/SP/Yr compared to the threshold of 2.41
MTCO2e/SP/Yr for 2031 and thus would exceed the SCAQMD/City's screening threshold in
2031. In 2045, the total GHG emissions from the project would translate to 4.39 MTCO2e/SP/Yr.,
which would exceed the applicable threshold of 0.72 MTCO2e/SP/Yr. The proposed project is
anticipated to result in annual CO2e emissions that exceed the most conservative threshold of 0.72
MTCO2e/SP/Yr. This threshold is based on a linear interpolation between the 2020 target of 4.8
MTCO2e/Yr and the 2045 target of 0.72 MTCO2e/Yr. As such, the Project's target for per capita
GHG efficiency in 2045 is 0.72 MTCO2e/yr. Thus, project -related emissions are potentially
significant. In order to reduce GHG emissions below the quantitative significance threshold of
0.72 MTCO2e/Yr, the Project will rely on all feasible on-site GHG reduction measures, as well as
off-site measures in the form of carbon offsets. As shown on Table 4.8-4, after implementation of
MM GHG-1, which contemplates the purchase of carbon credits, GHG emissions are reduced to
0.71 MTCO2e per SP per year, which is less than the applicable threshold of 0.72 MTCO2e per
SP per year. Mitigation Measures GHG-2 through GHG-10 would contribute to the project's
energy efficiency, GHG reductions, and compliance with State energy efficiency standards, but
those reductions are not directly quantified toward the GHG reductions.
Based on the current calculations, if the project pursued the 2045 target of 0.72 MTCO2e/yr, the
project would require approximately 13,624 credits per year for 30 years to reach the efficiency
level. The 13,624 credits would reduce the total annual emissions from 16,251.07 MTCO2e/yr to
approximately 2,664, which, when divided by the service population of 3,700, would achieve the
target of 0.71 MTCO2e/yr. The current GHG emissions calculations do not take credit for future
vehicle emissions reduction standards that maybe implemented by CARB and that would translate
to future GHG reductions (see Draft EIR at pp. 4.8-16 through 4.8-18).
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While implementation of Mitigation Measure GHG-1 would offset the GHG emissions generated
by the Project that are in excess of the applicable threshold, by reducing GHG emissions elsewhere
through the purchase of carbon credits, the purchase of carbon credits has not been widely used as
mitigation for GHG emissions for residential and resort projects in the Coachella Valley, and
therefore, there is some uncertainty as to whether the purchase of carbon credits adequately,
feasibly, and fully mitigates the project's impacts relating to GHG emissions to a less than
significant level. Accordingly, the City finds that the Project's potential impacts relating to GHG
emissions remain significant and unavoidable.
C. TRANSPORTATION.
i. Consistency with CEQA Guidelines section 15064.3, subdivision (b) (VMT):
Residential VMT for the Project was calculated to be 14.93 VMT/resident, which exceeds the
City's threshold of 15% below the existing Citywide home-based VMT/resident of 12.98 (meaning
the significance threshold is 11.03 VMT/resident).
Notably, however, Project non-residential VMT was calculated at 21.56 VMT/service population
for the subregional area with the Project, which was identical to the "without project" VMT/service
population of 21.56, resulting in a less than significant impact.
Project VMT is reduced by the following project design features/attributes, which are enforceable
by the City pursuant to the MMRP, the terms of the Development Agreement and/or Specific Plan:
• Having different types of land uses near one another can decrease VMT since trips
between land use types are shorter and may be accommodated by non -auto modes of
transport. For example, when residential areas are in the same neighborhood as resort
land uses, a resident does not need to travel outside of the neighborhood to meet his/her
recreational needs. The Project will implement marketing strategies to optimize
interaction between on-site resort and residential uses. Information sharing and
marketing are important components to successful trip reduction strategies. Marketing
strategies will include:
■ Resident member benefits that include use of the resort amenities
■ Event promotions
■ Publications
• The Project's mix of resort and residential uses could provide for a potential reduction
in Project residential VMT of 2%.
• The Project includes sidewalk connections and would minimize barriers to pedestrian
access and interconnectivity. The Project's implementation of this measure could
provide for a potential reduction in Project residential VMT of 1%.
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Project design features are anticipated to collectively reduce project home-based VMT by
approximately 3% under CAPCOA guidance. Project design features were considered after the
modelling process and reduced home-based VMT from 14.93 VMT/resident to 12.59 home-based
VMT/resident. While VMT per resident is below existing Citywide average VMT, it is still in
excess of the City's VMT residential threshold of 11.03 VMT/Resident.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
No feasible mitigation measures have been identified to reduce Project VMT.
iii. Finding Related to Potentially Significant and Unavoidable VMT Impacts:
Implementation of the project design features (PDFs) as described above and recommended in the
Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development
Agreement, as well as the MMRP and project conditions of approval, will reduce VMT to the
maximum extent feasible.
The City of La Quinta further finds that VMT impacts will remain significant and unavoidable and
specific economic, legal, social, technological, or other considerations, including the provision of
employment opportunities for highly trained workers, make infeasible the mitigation measures or
alternatives, if any, identified in the Final EIR. Because the City has found that despite the
implementation of all mitigations identified in the Draft EIR, effects on VMT will remain
significant, the City adopts the Statement of Overriding Considerations included in Part IX hereof.
Facts in Support of Findings:
The Urban Crossroads VMT Evaluation calculated project VMT using the most current version of
the Riverside County Transportation Analysis Model (RIVTAM). Adjustments in socioeconomic
data (SED) (i.e., employment) were made to a separate Traffic Analysis Zone (TAZ) within the
RIVTAM model to reflect the project's proposed population and employment uses, consistent with
industry standards.
The project was anticipated to generate approximately 3,250 project residents and 48,508 Home -
Based VMT for baseline (2020) conditions. This results in approximately 14.93 home-based
VMT/capita for the 2020 Baseline with project conditions (Draft EIR, Table 4.16-38). In addition,
the cumulative (2040) project scenario results in approximately 15.98 VMT/service population.
Because the project exceeds the City's VMT/capita threshold of 11.03 (based on the City's
standard requiring a 15% reduction below its average Citywide VMT/capita of 12.98), impacts
would be considered potentially significant. However, the project incorporates design features and
attributes promoting trip reduction which reduce residential VMT from 14.93 VMT/resident to
12.59 VMT/resident, including placement of different land use types near one another as well as
elements of the project that enhance walkability and connectivity between the mix of use types
such as sidewalk connections. Another PDF includes Marketing Strategies implemented by the
resort to optimize interaction between on-site resort and residential uses (Draft EIR, at pp. 4.16-
39). Implementation of the project design features will not reduce potential impacts to below the
City's established threshold for a significant VMT impact, and additional measures are infeasible
because the Project is not located near transit, and the future extension of transit to the Project site
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is uncertain. Additionally, there are no VMT mitigation banks or other locally adopted in lieu fee
programs or comparable mechanisms available to the Project that could allow the Project to
feasibly attain additional reductions in VMT beyond those attained through on-site Project design
features. Therefore, the residential portion of the project would have a significant and unavoidable
VMT impact.
The VMT analysis methodology for retail uses (including hotels) focuses on the net increase in
the total existing VMT for the region. The Project would consist of approximately 230 employees.
Travel activity associated with total link -level VMT was extracted from the "without project" and
"with non-residential project" RIVTAM model run for 2012 and 2040 conditions, then interpolated
for baseline (2020) conditions. This methodology is referred to as "boundary method," (see Draft
EIR, 4.16-40). Using the boundary method, the Coachella Valley Association of Government's
(CVAG) area VMT "with project" employment is compared to "without project" conditions to
determine whether there is a significant impact. The CVAG subregion VMT/SP without project is
estimated at 21.56, with the Project employment, the CVAG subregion VMT is estimated at 21.56.
Therefore, the project's effect on VMT (for non-residential uses) is not significant because it
results in an identical cumulative link -level boundary under the plus project condition compared
to the no project condition.
V. FINDINGS REGARDING POTENTIALLY SIGNIFICANT IMPACTS WHICH
ARE AVOIDED OR MITIGATED TO A LESS THAN SIGNIFICANT LEVEL
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City finds that, for each of the following significant effects identified in the
Final EIR, changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which
mitigate or avoid the identified potentially significant effects on the environment, and further finds
that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels. The potentially significant
effects and mitigation measures are stated fully in the Final EIR and each of the mitigation
measures have been imposed on the Project and are enforceable pursuant to the MMRP, the
Development Agreement, and Project conditions of approval. These findings are explained below
and are supported by substantial evidence in the record of proceedings.
A. AESTHETICS.
i. Impact the Existing Visual Character or Quality of Views in Non -Urbanized
Areas:
The proposed off-site utility field will consist of up to five well sites and an electrical substation.
The utilities will be constructed in compliance with CVWD standards for well sites, and IID
standards for the substation. Depending on the location of the off-site utility infrastructure, which
is undetermined at the time the Draft/Final EIR was written, the development of the utilities,
particularly the IID substation, may result in impacts to the visual character of the area.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential impacts concerning impacts to the visual character, the following mitigation
measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
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AES -1 In order to reduce the proposed substation's impact on the existing visual
character and reduce the potential degradation of scenic quality of the
surrounding area, the Project applicant shall use one or more of the
following or comparable techniques: perimeter barriers, landscaping
appropriate for the substation facility. Additionally, glare shall be controlled
through the use of non -reflective surfaces, dulling finishes to help blend the
structures with the surroundings and reduce glare and color contrast, or
comparable methods subject to the approval of IID.
iii. Finding Related to the Existing Visual Character or Quality of Public Views
From Offsite Substation:
The City Council finds that, for the potentially significant effect on existing visual character
described above, and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant
environmental effect as identified in the Final EIR, and the City Council further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measure AES -1, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the
Development Agreement, as well as the MMRP and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Substation facilities include transmission poles and electric lines that are visually noticeable,
especially in a rural context where development does not camouflage facilities. (Draft EIR at p.
4.1-52). The proposed substation would be located within a rural context within or near the City
that is characterized by agricultural and vacant lots. Transmission and distribution lines are
typically located adjacent to the public roadways. The new substation may result in a visual change
to the existing visual character of the rural portion of the City and County. However, the new
substation will be required to comply with setback requirements for utility infrastructure and
design features, such as landscaping and materials used, reduces the impact of the utilities to less
than significant levels regarding their impact to scenic vistas and the surrounding visual character.
For example, the use of exposed metal which can be shiny, and block wall perimeters and
decorative landscaping along the substation frontage would reduce visual impacts of the utility
field. Although electrical substations consist of elements that are noticeable within a rural context,
the potential impact of the substations can be reduced to less than significant levels with the close
coordination with IID to ensure that impacts are avoided and minimized to the greatest degree
practicable by proposing more subtle materials used, perimeter barriers, and landscaping.
Typically, substation facilities include lighting arresters, conductors, insulators, instrument
transformers, electrical power transformers, relays, circuit breakers, bus bars, etc. Substation
facilities include large transmission poles and electric lines that are visually noticeable, especially
in a rural context where development does not camouflage facilities. Transmission and distribution
lines are typically located adjacent to the public roadways. The distribution lines extending from
the proposed substation will be installed underground within existing rights-of-way. Transmission
lines will be above ground and connect the new substation to existing facilities. Mitigation
measure AES -1 identified above will be implemented and will further reduce potential impacts to
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the impact of substations in rural areas, which avoid any significant effects (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-
53).
iv. Creation of New Sources of Substantial Light and Glare Which Would
Adversely Affect Day or Nighttime Views:
On-site and off-site Project improvements would introduce additional light and glare to the area.
On-site development will include the proposed homes, resort, recreational facilities, clubhouse,
golf academy and 4 -hole course. Building lighting will consist of downward -oriented fixtures in
strategic locations.
Off-site improvements will include the development of well sites and an electrical substation in a
rural area of La Quinta. Utility infrastructure such as well sites and substations typically include
lighting for security purposes and to deter vandalism. It provides safety for line crews who may be
performing maintenance at night. The proposed substation would introduce lighting in an area that
is surrounded by vacant and rural agriculture lands, as well as residential communities.
Additionally, the proposed substation would also introduce new sources of glare to the area. Some
components of the Project have reflective surfaces. Elements of the new substation including
towers, metal fences, light-colored concrete or masonry retaining walls, light poles, and other
elements that are light in color or have shiny, reflective surfaces could produce substantial glare
that would adversely affect daytime views in the area.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential impacts concerning on-site and off-site Project -generated light or glare, the
following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
AES -1 In order to reduce the proposed substation's impact on the existing visual
character and reduce the potential degradation of scenic quality of the
surrounding area, the Project applicant shall use one or more of the
following or comparable techniques: perimeter barriers, landscaping
appropriate for the substation facility. Additionally, glare shall be controlled
through the use of non -reflective surfaces, dulling finishes to help blend the
structures with the surroundings and reduce glare and color contrast, or
comparable methods subject to the approval of IID.
BIO -2 All lighting located within the development footprint shall conform with the
requirements outlined in the Travertine Specific Plan and the MSHCP.
BIO -17 Outdoor lighting will be down -shielded and directed away from the hillsides
in accordance with the City of La Quinta Municipal Code section 9.100.150.
BIO -30 Artificial Lighting: Night lighting shall be directed away from adjacent
open space and SRSJM Conservation Area to protect wildlife from direct
night lighting. Light fixtures adjacent to open space will be shielded and
utilize low intensity lighting. If night lighting is required during
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construction, shielding shall be incorporated to ensure ambient lighting
adjacent conservation lands are not increased.
Throughout construction and the lifetime operations of the Project, the City
and Project proponent shall eliminate all nonessential lighting throughout
the Project area, including the selected offsite field utilities parcel, and avoid
or limit the use of artificial light at night during the hours of dawn and dusk
when many wildlife species are most active. The City shall ensure that all
lighting for the Project is fully shielded, cast downward, reduced in intensity
to the greatest extent possible, and does not result in lighting trespass
including glare into surrounding areas or upward into the night sky (see the
International Dark -Sky Association standards at http://darksky.org/). The
City and Project proponent shall ensure use of LED lighting with a
correlated color temperature of 3,000 Kelvins or less, proper disposal of
hazardous waste, and recycling of lighting that contains toxic compounds
with a qualified recycler.
vi. Finding Regarding Creation of New Sources of Substantial Light and Glare
Which Would Adversely Affect Day or Nighttime Views:
The City Council finds that, for the potentially significant effect on on-site and off-site light and
glare described above, and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have
been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effect as identified in the Draft/Final EIR, and the City Council further
finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation
of Mitigation Measure AES -1, BIO -2, BIO -17, and BIO -30 which have been adopted by the City
and are enforceable through the MMRP, the Development Agreement and Project conditions of
approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
As stated above, the development of the on-site and off-site improvements would result in light
and glare (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-54). Building lighting will consist of downward -oriented fixtures in
strategic locations and will avoid fixtures at unnecessary locations as required by the La Quinta
Municipal Code and the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
(CVMSHCP) Land Use Adjacency Guidelines. The City Outdoor Lighting Ordinance (Section
9.100.150) provides regulations for reducing light and glare caused by new development. In
accordance with Section 9.100.150 of the La Quinta Municipal Code, all exterior lighting shall
include adequate energy efficient lighting for public safety while minimizing effects of lighting.
Parking lot lighting shall comply with standards stated in Section 9.100.150 and Section 9.150.080,
which requires that graduated light standard heights in parking areas with lower heights in
peripheral areas may be required by the Planning Commission to provide compatibility with
adjoining properties and streets (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-54). The CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency
Guidelines are applicable to projects adjacent to or within a Conservation Area, in which 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. Mitigation Measures BIO -2 and BIO -30 identified above
will be implemented and will further reduce potential impacts to light and glare, which avoid any
significant effects (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-56).
Off-site improvements will include the development of well sites and an electrical substation in a
rural area of La Quinta or nearby unincorporated Riverside County. Utility infrastructure such as
well sites and substations typically include lighting for security purposes and to deter vandalism.
It provides safety for line crews who may be performing maintenance at night. Substation light
fixtures at newer facilities are typically downward -oriented to mitigate light spillage onto adjacent
properties and to reduce light pollution. Lighting at the substation would consist of downward -
oriented fixtures in areas where nighttime operations or maintenance activities would occur. Lights
for maintenance would be turned off during times when lights are not needed. The proposed
substation would introduce lighting in an area that is surrounded by vacant and rural agriculture
lands, as well as residential communities. Lights at substation facilities typically include fixtures
that do not cause spillover onto adjacent properties, while providing security for the substation.
The use of downward -oriented fixtures reduces light spillover onto adjacent properties, reducing
potential lighting impacts from the facilities.
Some components of the off-site improvements have reflective surfaces. Elements of the new
substation including towers, metal fences, light-colored concrete or masonry retaining walls, light
poles, and other elements that are light in color or have shiny, reflective surfaces could produce
substantial glare that would adversely affect daytime views in the area. Thus, the proposed
substation would also introduce new sources of glare to the area. Therefore, Mitigation Measure
AES -1 identified above will be implemented and will further reduce potential impacts to light and
glare, which avoid any significant effects (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-56).
B. AIR QUALITY
i. Result in a Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in a Regulated Pollutant
For Which The Project Region is in Non -Attainment:
As discussed on page 4.3-22 of the DEIR, emissions resulting from Project construction will
exceed thresholds established by the SCAQMD for emissions ofNOx during construction activity.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential impacts concerning the cumulatively considerable net increase in a regulated
pollutant, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented
consistent with the MMRP:
AQ -1 The General Contractor and all sub -contractors shall ensure that during
Project and off-site utility construction activities, off-road diesel
construction equipment rated at 50 horsepower (hp) or greater, complies
with EPA/CARB Tier 4 off-road emissions standards or equivalent and
shall ensure that all construction equipment is tuned and maintained in
accordance with the manufacturer's specifications.
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iii. Finding Related to the Cumulatively Considerable Net Increase in a Regulated
Pollutant For Which The Project Region is in Non -Attainment:
The City Council finds that, for the potentially significant effect related to the cumulatively
considerable net increase in a regulated pollutant for which the Project region is in non -attainment,
as described above, and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant
environmental effect as identified in the Final EIR, and the City Council further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measure AQ -1, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development
Agreement, as well as the MMRP and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
As demonstrated in Table 4.3-6 of the DEIR, the Project's maximum daily construction emissions
do not exceed the applicable SCAQMD regional thresholds of significance after implementation
of the Mitigation Measure AQ -1. As a result, no additional mitigation measures are required to
reduce air quality emissions from construction activities.
To support the Project development, there may be paving for off-site improvements associated
with roadway construction and utility installation for the Project. It is expected that the off-site
construction activities would not take place at one location for the entire duration of construction.
Impacts associated with these activities are not expected to exceed the emissions identified for
Project -related construction activities since the off-site construction areas would have physical
constraints on the amount of daily activity that could occur. The physical constraints would limit
the amount of construction equipment that could be used, and any off-site and utility infrastructure
construction would not use equipment totals that would exceed the equipment totals presented in
the DEIR. As such, no impacts beyond what has already been identified in this report are expected
to occur.
C. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
i. Substantial 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 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service:
The Project will result in direct or indirect and potentially significant impacts to species identified
as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species and sensitive natural communities. Special status
species with potential to occur on the Project site are identified on pages 4.4-11 — 4.4-13 of the
Draft EIR. As discussed on page 4.4-33 through 4.4-38 of the Draft EIR, the Project will result in
direct or indirect and potentially significant impacts to the Peninsular Bighorn Sheep (Ovis
canadensis nelsoni) (PBS), a federally endangered species and State endangered and California
Fully Protected species, the Burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia), a California Species of Special
Concern, the LeConte's Thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei), a California Species of Special Concern,
the Blak-tailed gnatcatcher (Polioptila melanura), a California Species of Special Concern, the
Loggerhead shrike (Lanius ludovicianus), a California Species of Special Concern, and the Long -
20
eared owl (Asia otus), osprey (Pandion haliaetus), and prairie falcon (Falco mexicanis) which are
on the California Department of Fish and Wildlife "Watch List" species. In addition, the project
site has the vegetation to potentially support nesting birds which are protected by California Fish
and Game Code and by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA), which are addressed below.
With respect to PBS, as explained at Draft EIR page 4.4-34, PBS was not observed on the site and
has moderate potential to occur on the Project site. The Project has the potential to indirectly
impact PBS due to a general increase in everyday human activity. Urbanized areas can attract PBS
with grass and artificial water sources. Additional potential impacts to PBS include ambient levels
of noise or light, predation by domestic pets, and other human disturbances, such as hiking, and
invasive ornamental plantings that may encroach into native areas. Temporary indirect effects may
also occur as a result of construction -related activities.
With respect to special status birds identified above, as discussed on pages 4.4-35 and 4.4-38 of
the Draft EIR, habitats and vegetation within and surrounding the Project site and the off-site utility
field have the potential to support these species. Construction -related disturbance from the Project
site will include human activity, noise, grading and heavy machinery. These activities may have
an adverse impact on special status bird species, especially during the breeding season when
individuals may be attempting to incubate eggs or raise young within or adjacent to the Project
site. Operational impacts from the Project would have a general increase in everyday human
activity such as ambient levels of noise or light, predation by domestic pets, and other human
disturbances, such as hiking, and invasive ornamental plantings that may encroach into native
areas.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential impacts to candidate, sensitive, or special status species,
the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
Measures Specific to PBS
BIO -1: Because USFWS has determined that fences could block wildlife
movement, fences will not be used as an initial deterrent to unauthorized
access; however, a fencing contingency plan will be developed to address
any future indirect Project impacts. Following the formation of the HOA
and before the completion of the habitat interface golf course, the Project
applicant will establish a three-person committee, with representatives from
USFWS, CDFW, and the HOA to monitor and assess the future need for a
buffer fence. The committee will be charged with assessing whether a future
fence is needed based on whether a fence is needed to prevent human access
to sheep habitat or keep bighorn sheep off the project site. In addition, if
USFWS finds evidence that a fence is necessary to prevent human access
to prevent human access to sheep habitat or keep bighorn sheep off the
project site, USFWS may require the construction of the fence at its sole
discretion. To avoid complications in the installation of a future fence, the
Project applicant would be required to provide wildlife fence easements at
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the exterior boundary of the golf course or trail corridor, whichever is the
outer most perimeter of the project, create an HOA as the legally responsible
parry for fence installation, and provide or identify a dedicated source of
funds to construct the fence prior to recording the first final map.
Consistent with the terms of the Project Biological Opinion, upon either a
three-person committee or USFWS's unilateral determination that a fence
is necessary based on the criteria specified in the Biological Opinion, an 8 -
foot -tall wildlife fence constructed of tubular steel and painted to blend in
with the desert environment shall be installed where the Project interfaces
with Coral Mountain along the northern boundary and extend southward
along the western and southern boundary of proposed development to
preclude PBS from entering the Project and humans from entering the sheep
habitat. The fence shall extend to where Avenue 62 intersects with the
eastern Project boundary.
BIO -2 All lighting located within the development footprint shall conform with the
requirements outlined in the Travertine Specific Plan and the MSHCP.
BIO -3 Where the Project is located adjacent to the SRSJM Conservation Area
along its western edge, a minimum buffer of 74 feet shall be incorporated
between SRSJM undeveloped native desert areas and private homeowner
parcels and public gathering areas. Each private homeowner parcel along
this western edge shall have fencing at the top of slope with Lexan panels
to dampen noise to an appropriate level.
BIO -4 All plant species identified as invasive by the CVMSHP, or that are known
to be toxic to PBS, will be prohibited from inclusion in Project landscaping
including areas adjacent to proposed open space. Prior to site disturbance a
Project -specific list of prohibited plant species will be prepared by a
qualified biologist for use in developing the Project Landscape Plan. This
will include plants identified as invasive by the California Invasive Plant
Council (Cal -IPC) and the CVMSHCP. The City shall review the landscape
palette prior to planting.
BIO -5 The final design and location of natural trails will be approved by the
USFWS and the City to minimize disturbance to PBS. Unauthorized trails
currently in use on the Property will be closed to minimize impacts to
bighorn sheep and replaced with the trail proposed as part of the Project.
The nature trail will be closed to equestrian and bicycle use. Other than this
trail, no additional trails would be proposed or allowed as part of the Project.
To restrict human access to surrounding hills, including: (a) placement of
"no trespass" signs at legally enforceable intervals along the trail and
habitat/development interface, with legally enforceable language; (b)
development of CC&Rs and educational materials that explain to residents
and members the ecology of bighorn sheep and the rules concerning
unauthorized hiking into sheep habitat.
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BIO -6 Project proponent shall permanently protect 19.7 acres in Section 5 as
bighorn sheep habitat. Prior to recording the first final map, Project
proponent also has committed to acquire an additional approximately 100
acres of bighorn sheep habitat in Section 5 that also are strategically located
to fragment larger blocks of land into smaller units with reduced
development potential. All lands proposed for conservation in Section 5
will be approved by the Service and protected in perpetuity consistent with
California Civil Code Section 815, et seq. For more detail, please refer to
the Section 5 Addendum to the Travertine Biological Assessment.
BIO -7 Project proponent shall establish a $500,000 endowment with the Center for
Natural Lands Management (CNLM) to be managed by the U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service to assist with the long-term management of bighorn sheep.
Of this total, $100,000 will be provided upon issuance of the first grading
permit, with the balance of $400,000 paid in installments of $100,000 per
year over the succeeding four years. Long-term maintenance and
monitoring activities shall be outlined in a long-term management plan and
submitted to CDFW and USFWS for review and approval."
BIO -8 Project proponent shall provide an additional $100,000 to the CNLM
endowment above to support the gathering of information on the effects of
the regional trails system on bighorn sheep, including trails in and around
the Project site.
BIO -9 The Jefferson Street extension through Section 32 will be constructed using
active and passive design features to prevent public roadside parking and
foot access into bighorn sheep habitat (e.g., boulders, k -rail, berm, narrow
road shoulder, bar ditch, and restrictive signage), subject to review and
approval by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
BIO -10 Within the project boundary, approximately 100 yards at the west end of the
newly constructed Jefferson Street Loop in the southwest comer of Section
33, where it connects with the Avenue 62 alignment, will be left as
undeveloped desert. The distance in some places will be less than 100 yards
but other features such as "manufactured slopes" and "property fences" will
be used, as shown in Figure 4 — BO Conservation Measure #7 of the Project
Biological Opinion. This design feature, in combination with enhanced
native landscaping, will discourage unauthorized vehicle access into
bighorn sheep habitat in Section 5 adjacent to the Travertine project
boundary.
BIO -11 No exotic plants known to be toxic to PBS, or invasive in desert
environments, will be used in project landscaping.
BIO -12 The Project shall not provide direct public access from internal streets to
hillside sheep habitat.
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BIO -13 The Project Nature Trail will form the southern and western perimeters of
the Project.
BIO -14 To deter bighorn sheep access to the project site, natural landscaping and
property fences around residential areas would reduce noise, light, and
visual impacts on surrounding hills.
BIO -15 The best management practices shall be used to preclude the establishment
of potential disease vectors at open water features (i.e., water bodies will be
designed with steep, unvegetated slopes and deep enough water to prevent
establishment of emergent wetland vegetation).
BIO -16 CC&R's and Project Specific Plan conditions shall prohibit activities that
emit noise above specified levels (not to exceed 60 dB(A) for sensitive
receptors or 75 dB(A) for non-residential receptors (per City Ordinance
9.100.210 Noise Control). For example, only quiet electric golf carts will
be used for service and maintenance.
BIO -17 Outdoor lighting will be down -shielded and directed away from the hillsides
in accordance with the City municipal code.
BIO -18 To increase public awareness regarding the sensitivity of PBS in the region,
educational materials will be provided to homeowners and made available
to users of the public facilities within the Travertine development. This
material will be prepared in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service and CDFW. In addition, the Project proponent will provide within
the project an area dedicated as an interpretive center concerning the
bighorn sheep.
BIO -19 The two water reservoirs will be constructed of steel or concrete and buried
underground to the extent possible, or screened by landscaped berms. Any
tank appurtenances (e.g., valves) remaining above -ground will be painted
with non -reflective paint colored to blend with the surrounding habitat and
to prevent light from being reflected toward sheep habitat in the Santa Rosa
Mountains.
BIO -20 Dogs and other pets are not allowed within the National Monument and
appropriate signage at the designated trailhead parking areas and any other
access points will be installed to prohibit dogs along the Nature Trail.
CC&Rs and club rules will require pets to remain on a leash while outside
enclosed areas, and will prohibit pets from entering the hills at any time.
The Project proponent will consult with USFWS during the drafting of
Rules & Regulations concerning appropriate rules and regulations to protect
bighorn sheep. The Master Declaration of Conditions, Covenants and
Restrictions will incorporate rules and regulations specifically addressing
bighorn sheep, which rules and regulations may be modified, amended or
deleted only with the express written consent of USFWS. Violators of
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CC&Rs and club rules will be subject to increasingly severe penalties.
Compliance with the local "leash law" will also be enforced pursuant to
City ordinance and the project's Specific Plan conditions. A variety of other
measures will be implemented to restrict human access to surrounding hills,
including training personnel to monitor and control human access to
adjacent hills.
BIO -21 The acreage of the Project Site that is located within the MSHCP
Conservation Area shall be dedicated to Conservation in perpetuity.
BIO -22 Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the project proponent will provide
a no -interest $2,000,000 loan to the CVCC or its designee upon mutually
agreeable terms to acquire essential bighorn sheep habitat in the project
area. This provision may be revised or substituted for in a manner of equal
or greater benefit to the Plan upon mutual agreement of CVCC, the Wildlife
Agencies, and the Project proponent.
Workers Environmental Awareness Program
BIO -23 A Qualified Biologist will prepare and present to each employee (including
temporary, contractors, and subcontractors) a Worker Environmental
Awareness Program (WEAP) prior to the worker's initiation of work on the
Project site. Workers shall also be advised by the Qualified Biologist of the
special -status wildlife species in the Project site, the steps to avoid impacts
to the species and the potential penalties for taking such species. At a
minimum, the WEAP will include the following information: occurrence of
the listed and sensitive species in the area, their general ecology, sensitivity
of the species to human activities, legal protection afforded to these species,
penalties for violations of federal and State laws, reporting requirements,
and Project features and mitigation measures designed to reduce the impacts
to these species and promote continued successful occupation of habitats
within the Project area. Included in this WEAP will be color photographs
of the listed species, which will be shown to the employees. Following the
WEAP, the photographs will be posted in the contractor and resident
engineer office, where they will remain through the duration of the Project.
The contractor, resident engineer, and the Qualified Biologist will be
responsible for ensuring that employees are aware of the listed species and
observe reporting and mitigation and avoidance requirements. A record of
all trained personnel will be kept with the construction foreman onsite. If
new construction personnel are added to the project, the construction
foreman will ensure that new personnel receive WEAP training before they
start working.
Environmentally Sensitive Areas (ESAs) and Special Status Species and Wildlife
BIO -24 Prior to issuance of grading permit, a qualified biologist will be designated
to monitor construction activities and advise construction personnel of the
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sensitive biological resources on site that may be impacted by, and
conversely, that must be avoided during site development. A biological
monitor will be on site to monitor avoidance activities and to monitor all
clearing and grubbing activities, as well as grading, excavation, and/or other
ground -disturbing activities in jurisdictional areas to ensure that impacts do
not exceed the limits of grading and to minimize the likelihood of
inadvertent impacts on special -status species. The monitor will flush avian
species and remove and relocate, if possible, non -avian species to a safe
location outside of the immediate construction zone (generally 1,000 feet or
more onto public lands, when feasible).
Where appropriate, the biological monitor will mark/flag the limits of
environmental sensitive areas (ESAs) to restrict project activities near the
areas. These restricted areas will be monitored to protect the species during
construction. The biological monitor will ensure that all biological
mitigation measures, BMPs, avoidance and protection measures described
in the relevant project permits, approvals, licenses, and environmental
reports, and CEQA documents, are in place and are adhered to. Monitoring
will cease when the sensitive habitats and jurisdictional areas have been
cleared or impacted.
The biological monitor will ensure that construction activities will maintain
measures to prevent accidental trapping of wildlife into excavated areas and
inspect excavated areas daily to detect the presence of trapped wildlife. All
deep or steep -walled excavated areas should be covered with plywood or
other weight bearing material and will be furnished with escape ramps at a
3:1 slope or are surrounded with exclusionary fencing in order to prevent
wildlife from entering them. Trapped wildlife should be relocated out of
harm's way to a suitable habitat outside of the project area.
The biological monitor will have the authority to temporarily halt all
construction activities and all non emergency actions if ESAs and special -
status species are identified and will be directly impacted. The monitor will
notify the appropriate resource agency and consult if needed. If needed, and
if possible, the biological monitor will relocate the individual outside of the
work area where it will not be harmed. Work can continue at the location if
the project proponent and the consulted resource agency determine that the
activity will not result in impacts on the species.
All biological monitor observations of special -status species will be
documented and mapped in monitoring logs. Monitoring logs will be
completed for each day of monitoring. All special -status species recordings
will be submitted to the CNDDB.
The biological monitors will be responsible for documenting compliance
with avoidance measures, the results of the surveys and the ongoing
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monitoring, and will provide a copy of the monitoring reports for impact
areas to the County EPD and any permitting agencies that require reporting.
The appropriate agencies will be notified if a dead or injured protected
species is located within the project site. Written notification will be made
within 15 days of the date and time of the finding or incident (if known) and
will include: location of the carcass, a photograph, cause of death (if
known), and other pertinent information.
BIO -25 Prior to issuance of grading permits and commencement of any ground -
disturbing activities or vegetation removal the following measures would
be implemented to avoid impacts on ESAs, surrounding habitats, and
special status species and wildlife:
a. Project footprint would be set at the minimum size to accomplish
necessary work, and the footprint will be of a size/area no greater than is
identified in the CEQA documentation, to minimize impacts on sensitive
biological resources.
b. Specifications for the project boundary, limits of grading, project related
parking, storage areas, laydown sites, and equipment storage areas would
be mapped and clearly marked in the field with temporary fencing, signs,
stakes, flags, rope, cord, or other appropriate markers. All markers would
be maintained until the completion of activities in that area.
c. To minimize the amount of disturbance, the construction/laydown
activities, parking, staging, storage, spoil management, and equipment
access will be restricted to designated areas. Designated areas will comprise
existing disturbed areas (parking lots, access roads, graded areas, etc.) to the
extent possible.
d. Designated staging areas will be enclosed with temporary security
fencing. All staging areas will comply with conditions in the Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan SWPPP), which provides BMPs to avoid or
mitigate erosion impacts during construction.
e. Project -related work limits would be defined and work crews would be
restricted to designated work areas. Disturbance beyond the actual
construction zone will be prohibited without site-specific surveys. If
sensitive biological resources are detected in an area to be impacted, then
appropriate measures would be implemented to avoid impacts (i.e., flag and
avoid, erect orange construction fencing, biological monitor present during
work, etc.). However, if avoidance is not possible and the sensitive
biological resources would be directly impacted by project activities, the
biologist would mark and/or stake the site(s) and map the individuals on an
aerial map and with a Global Positioning System (GPS) unit. The biologist
would then contact the appropriate resource agencies to develop additional
27
avoidance, minimization and/or mitigation measures prior to commencing
project activities.
f. ESAs would be identified, mapped, clearly marked in the field, and
avoided to the maximum extent practicable in order to avoid and minimize
impacts on sensitive biological resources.
g. Existing roads and trails would be utilized wherever possible to avoid
unnecessary impacts. Project related vehicle traffic would be restricted to
established roads, staging areas, and parking areas. Travel outside
construction zones will be prohibited.
h. Monitoring would occur periodically during the length of construction
activities to ensure project limits, designated areas (parking, storage, etc.),
and ESAs are still clearly marked.
i. Signs will be installed on boundaries of the Project Site and other strategic
locations to notify the public of the sensitive biological resources identified
onsite and prohibit entry into key high value habitat areas.
BIO -26 Prior to construction, the construction area and adjacent habitat within 500
feet of the construction area, or to the edge of the property if less than 500
feet, will be surveyed by a Qualified Biologist for burrows that could be
used by burrowing owl. Two (2) surveys will be conducted, with one survey
to be conducted between 14 and 30 days prior to site disturbance, and a
second survey to be conducted within 24 hours of site disturbance,
following methods described in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl
Mitigation (California Department of Fish and Game 2012). If a burrow is
located, the Qualified Biologist will determine if an owl is present in the
burrow. If the burrow is determined to be occupied, the burrow will be
flagged and a 160 -foot buffer during the non -breeding season and a 250 -
foot buffer during the breeding season, or a buffer to the edge of the property
boundary if less than 500 feet, will be established around the burrow. The
buffer will be staked and flagged. No construction will be permitted within
the buffer until the young are no longer dependent on the burrow.
If the burrow is unoccupied, the burrow will be made inaccessible to
burrowing owls, and construction activities may proceed. If either a nesting
or escape burrow is occupied, burrowing owls shall be relocated pursuant
to accepted protocols and in coordination with the Wildlife Agencies
(CDFW and USFWS). A burrow is assumed occupied if records indicate
that, based on surveys conducted following protocol, at least one burrowing
owl has been observed occupying a burrow on site during the past three
years. If there are no records for the site, surveys must be conducted to
determine, prior to construction, if burrowing owls are present.
Determination of the appropriate method of relocation, such as
eviction/passive relocation or active relocation, shall be based on the
specific site conditions (e.g., distance to nearest suitable habitat and
presence of burrows within that habitat) in coordination with the Wildlife
Agencies. Active relocation and eviction/passive relocation require the
preservation and maintenance of suitable burrowing owl habitat determined
through coordination with the Wildlife Agencies.
BIO -27 Prior to the start of construction activities during the nesting season
(February I st through August 31 st) in modeled Le Conte's thrasher habitat
in the SRSJM Conservation Area, surveys will be Conducted by a Qualified
Biologist on the construction site and within 500 feet of the construction
site, or to the property boundary if less than 500 feet. If nesting Le Conte's
thrashers are found, a 500 -foot buffer, or to the property boundary if less
than 500 feet, will be established around the nest site. The buffer will be
staked and flagged. No construction will be permitted within the buffer
during the breeding season (January 15 through June 15) or until the young
have fledged.
BIO -28 Vegetation clearing shall be conducted outside of the nesting season, which
is generally identified as February I through August 31, to the greatest
extent feasible. Regardless of the time of year, nesting bird surveys shall be
performed by a qualified avian biologist no more than 3 days prior to
vegetation removal or ground -disturbing activities. Pre -construction
surveys shall focus on both direct and indirect evidence of nesting,
including nest locations and nesting behavior. The qualified avian biologist
will make every effort to avoid potential nest predation as a result of survey
and monitoring efforts. If active nests are found during the pre -construction
nesting bird surveys, a qualified biologist shall establish an appropriate nest
buffer to be marked on the ground. Nest buffers are species specific and
shall be at least 300 feet for passerines and 500 feet for raptors. A smaller
or larger buffer may be determined by the qualified biologist familiar with
the nesting phenology of the nesting species and based on nest and buffer
monitoring results. Construction activities may not occur inside the
established buffers, which shall remain on site until a qualified biologist
determines the young have fledged or the nest is no longer active. Active
nests and adequacy of the established buffer distance shall be monitored
daily by the qualified biologist until the qualified biologist has determined
the young have fledged or the Project has been completed. The qualified
biologist has the authority to stop work if nesting pairs exhibit signs of
disturbance.
BIO -29 Drainage and Toxics: Project stormwater runoff will be conveyed eastward
toward the Dike 4 impound and away from Project surrounding open space,
and SRSJM Conservation Area. Stormwater retention basins are designed
to provide requisite water quality treatment, including bio -remediation.
Subsequent engineering will include preparation of a SWPPP that will
29
ensure against increased runoff and protect water quality during and post -
construction.
BIO -30 Artificial Lighting: Night lighting shall be directed away from adjacent
open space and SRSJM Conservation Area to protect wildlife from direct
night lighting. Light fixtures adjacent to open space will be shielded and
utilize low intensity lighting. No nighttime lighting will be utilized on the
nature trail and a curfew will be established for trail use from sunrise to
sunset. Notice of the trail curfew will be posted at each trail entry point. If
night lighting is required during construction, shielding shall be
incorporated to ensure ambient lighting adjacent conservation lands are not
increased.
Throughout construction and the lifetime operations of the Project, the City
and Project proponent shall eliminate all nonessential lighting throughout
the Project area, including the selected offsite field utilities parcel, and avoid
or limit the use of artificial light at night during the hours of dawn and dusk
when many wildlife species are most active. The City shall ensure that all
lighting for the Project is fully shielded, cast downward, reduced in intensity
to the greatest extent possible, and does not result in lighting trespass
including glare into surrounding areas or upward into the night sky (see the
International Dark -Sky Association standards at http://darksky.org/). The
City and Project proponent shall ensure use of LED lighting with a
correlated color temperature of 3,000 Kelvins or less, proper disposal of
hazardous waste, and recycling of lighting that contains toxic compounds
with a qualified recycler.
BIO -31 Noise: The Project will incorporate setbacks, as specified in the Specific
Plan to minimize the effects of noise on wildlife.
BIO -32 Unauthorized Access: The Project will incorporate signage, fencing, gates,
and similar measures and barriers to inform the hiking public and to avoid
or minimize unauthorized access to adjacent open space lands.
BIO -33 California Desert Native Plants Act: The applicant will collect California
Desert Native Plan Act protected plants, including California barrel cactus
(Ferocactus cylindraceus), Gander's buckhorn cholla (Cylindropuntia
ganderi), Englemann's hedgehog cactus (Echinocereus engelmannii),
cottontop cactus (Echinocactus polycephalus), beavertail cactus (Opuntia
basilaris), branched pencil cholla (Cylindropuntia ramossissima), ocotillo
(Fouquieria splendens), catclaw (Acacia greggii), blue paloverde
(Parkinsonia florida), and smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus) and
prioritize reuse of plant materials onsite. A permit from the Agriculture
Commissioner of the County of Riverside shall be obtained prior to
collection and relocation of these species.
30
Off-site improvements
BIO -34: A general biological field survey to document existing conditions and the
suitability of habitats within the utility field parcels to support special -status
wildlife species such as burrowing owl, which could potentially occur on-
site. Regardless of focused survey findings, if suitable habitat for burrowing
owl is present, two (2) separate preconstruction surveys are required prior
to any ground disturbance, one no less than 14 days prior to disturbance,
and the other within 24 hours prior to ground disturbance.
Should take of burrowing owl be expected, a relocation plan and extensive
coordination to move animals offsite can be expected.
BIO -35: Le Conte's Thrasher. Le Conte's thrasher focused surveys shall be
performed by a qualified avian biologist prior to vegetation removal or
ground -disturbing activities following methods outlined on pages 6-8 of the
LeConte's Thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei) Status and Nest Site
Requirements in the Coachella Valley (Hargrove, L. P. et al. 20204),
including the broadcast of song and calls by a qualified avian biologist with
an appropriate permit. If active nests are found during the pre -construction
nesting bird surveys, the qualified biologist shall inform CDFW and shall
establish an appropriate nest buffer to be marked on the ground. Nest buffers
are species specific and shall be at least 300 feet for passerines. A smaller
or larger buffer may be determined by the qualified biologist familiar with
the nesting phenology of the nesting species and based on nest and buffer
monitoring results. Construction activities may not occur inside the
established buffers, which shall remain on site until a qualified biologist
determines the young have fledged or the nest is no longer active. Active
nests and adequacy of the established buffer distance shall be monitored
daily by the qualified biologist until the qualified biologist has determined
the young have fledged or the Project has been completed. The qualified
biologist has the authority to stop work if nesting pairs exhibit signs of
disturbance.
BIO -36: Burrowing Owl Avoidance: No less than 60 days prior to the start of
Project -related activities, a burrowing owl habitat assessment shall be
conducted within the Project site and surrounding area, including the
selected off-site utility field parcel, by a qualified biologist according to the
specifications of the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation
(Department of Fish and Game, March 2012 or most recent version).
Suitable habitat for burrowing owl has been identified within the Project
site; therefore, focused burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted by a
qualified biologist according to the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl
Mitigation prior to vegetation removal or ground -disturbing activities.
Focused burrowing owl surveys shall also be conducted in all areas
identified through a habitat assessment as being suitable habitat for
31
burrowing owls at the selected off-site utility field parcel. If burrowing owls
are detected during the focused surveys, the qualified biologist and Project
proponent shall prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall be submitted to
CDFW for review and approval prior to commencing Project activities. The
Burrowing Owl Plan shall describe proposed avoidance, minimization,
mitigation, and monitoring actions. The Burrowing Owl Plan shall include
the number and location of occupied burrow sites, acres of burrowing owl
habitat that will be impacted, details of site monitoring, and details on
proposed buffers and other avoidance measures if avoidance is proposed. If
impacts to occupied burrowing owl habitat or burrow cannot be avoided,
the Burrowing Owl Plan shall also describe minimization and relocation
actions that will be implemented. Proposed implementation of burrow
exclusion and closure should only be considered as a last resort, after all
other options have been evaluated as exclusion is not in itself an avoidance,
minimization, or mitigation method and has the possibility to result in take.
If impacts to occupied burrows cannot be avoided, information shall be
provided regarding adjacent or nearby suitable habitat available to owls
along with proposed relocation actions. The Project proponent shall
implement the Burrowing Owl Plan following CDFW and USFWS review
and approval.
Preconstruction burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted no less than 14
days prior to the start of Project -related activities and within 24 hours prior
to ground disturbance, in accordance with the Staff Report on Burrowing
Owl Mitigation (2012 or most recent version). Preconstruction surveys
should be performed by a qualified biologist following the
recommendations and guidelines provided in the Staff Report on Burrowing
Owl Mitigation. If the preconstruction surveys confirm occupied burrowing
owl habitat, Project activities shall be immediately halted. The qualified
biologist shall coordinate with CDFW and prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan
that shall be submitted to CDFW and USFWS for review and approval prior
to commencing Project activities.
BIO -37: All operation and maintenance activities relating to the Project's water tank
facilities will be designed and conducted in a manner consistent with the
applicable mitigation measures in the 2015 Operations and Maintenance
Manual for Coachella Valley Water District Covered Activities and
Facilities Within Conservation Areas. Avoidance and minimization
measures include, but are not limited to: (i) the number of access routes,
number and size of staging areas, and the total area of any operations and
maintenance activities shall be limited to the minimum necessary to achieve
the project goal; (ii) routes and boundaries outside the normal access roads
shall be clearly delineated through fencing or flagging; (iii) if any CVWD
employee inadvertently impacts a listed species or sensitive habitat during
operations and maintenance activities, CVWD shall report the activity
within 24 hours to CDFW.
32
iii. Finding Related to Substantial 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 the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service:
The City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects on candidate, sensitive, or special
status species described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations
have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Draft/Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measures BI0-1 through BI0-37, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by
the City and are enforceable through the MMRP, Development Agreement, and project conditions
of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
PBS: Although the PBS was not observed on the Project site during the 2022 field survey
performed by Michael Baker, there is a moderate potential for the PBS to occur on the Project.
Urbanized areas can attract PBS with grass and artificial water sources. However, potential impacts
to PBS include ambient levels of noise or light, predation by domestic pets, and other human
disturbances, such as hiking, and invasive ornamental plantings that may encroach into native areas
(Draft EIR at p. 4.4-34). Therefore to reduce impacts to PBS, the Project shall implement
Mitigation Measures BI0-1 through BI0-22, by focusing on trail locations, habitat acquisition and
long-term management, funding of research, future evaluations for the need of a wildlife fence,
Project design considerations, prohibition of invasive non-native plant species in Project
landscaped areas, noise reduction, the prevention of light spillage into open space and the SRSJM
Conservation Areas, and provision of educational interpretive materials located along the proposed
trail system. Additionally, Mitigation Measures BIO -29 through BIO -32 avoid or minimize
indirect effects and/or authorized access to adjacent open space and Conservation Area. Thus,
impacts to PBS is reduced to less than significant levels.
Special Status Birds: Habitats and vegetation within and surrounding the Project site have the
potential to support nesting black -tailed gnatcatcher, loggerhead shrike, long-eared owl, osprey,
prairie falcon, and other common birds. No active bird nests or birds displaying nesting behaviors
were observed within the Project site during the field surveys. However, onsite vegetation provides
suitable nesting opportunities for a variety of resident and migratory bird species. Project -related
construction and operational activities could disturb bird species. Therefore, Mitigation Measures
BIO -23 through BIO -28 and BIO -35 and -36, listed above, are recommended to avoid habitat
destruction and/or disturbance of foraging or nesting, and take of any birds, including those listed
above, which are protected pursuant to the MBTA and CFGC. The Mitigation Measures require a
worker environmental awareness program (WEAP) to teach construction workers of special status
species; a biological monitor to monitor the site during cleaning and grubbing activities; and
establishing limits to Project footprint during ground -disturbing activities or vegetation removal.
33
Mitigation Measures are also established to minimize impacts to burrowing owls, Le Conte's
thrasher, and other nesting birds via a survey prior to disturbance (Draft EIR at p. 4.4-52 and (BIO -
35 and BIO -36).
Mitigation Measure BIO -27 specifically addresses potential impacts to LeConte's thrasher because
the species is covered under the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan
(CVMSHCP), and was determined to have a moderate potential to occur on-site. The CVMSHCP
requires take avoidance surveys for the LeConte's thrasher prior to construction at a project site to
avoid direct impacts. To ensure consistency with the CVMSHCP, Mitigation Measure BIO -27
incorporates the precise language from Section 4.4 of the plan. Other bird species (i.e., black -tailed
gnatcatcher, loggerhead shrike, etc.) are not covered species under the CVMSHCP and as a result,
are not specifically included in Mitigation Measure BIO -27. Survey requirements for the other
species present at the Project site that is covered under the CVMSHCP, the burrowing owl, are
specifically addressed in Mitigation Measure BI0-26. Measure BIO -28 requires pre -construction
nesting bird surveys covering all bird species and is adequate to mitigate impacts to bird species
not specifically addressed in Mitigation Measures BIO -26 and BIO -27.
Additionally, off-site improvements would require that biological field survey be complete prior
to ground disturbance to ensure that impacts to special status species are less than significant.
iv. Substantial Adverse Effects on Riparian Habitat or Other Sensitive Natural
Community Identified in Local or Regional Plans, Policies, or Regulations, or
by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife:
The Project would result in the permanent and temporary loss of sensitive natural community
would be potentially significant prior to mitigation. However, impacts would be avoided and
minimized through the permanent protection of avoided jurisdictional resources on the Project site
and additional habitat on lands to the west and south through a formal conservation instrument
(e.g., easement), and through implementation of measures provided in the USFWS BO, CVCC's
Final JPR, and Mitigation Measures BI0-38, -39 and -40.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential impacts to the riparian habitat, the following mitigation
measure are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
BIO -38 Prior to the issuance of grading or building permits for the project, and prior
to initiating any work that may impact jurisdictional waters identified in the
Travertine Project Biological Resources Assessment, the Project -specific
Delineation of State and Federal Jurisdictional Waters, Michael Baker
International, and the off-site utility field assessment prepared by Michael
Baker International, dated March 2022, June 2021, and June 2022,
respectively, the Project proponent shall provide notice to CDFW and
obtain a Lake and Streambed Alteration Agreement as required pursuant to
California Fish and Game Code sections 1602-1616.
34
BIO -39 Impacts to CDFW jurisdictional waters shall be mitigated pursuant to a
Habitat Mitigation and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) which will be prepared
to identify specific on-site and/or off-site mitigation activities that will be
implemented to compensate for unavoidable impacts to CDFW
jurisdictional areas. Impacts to non -riparian waters will be mitigated at a
minimum 1:1 ratio. Impacts to riparian vegetation will be mitigated at a
minimum 2:1 ratio. The HMMP will identify the mitigation program
coordinated with and approved by CDFW, set mitigation success criteria,
and guide a five-year qualitative and quantitative mitigation monitoring
program to track mitigation success. Annual reports will be submitted to
CDFW each year for five years, summarizing mitigation performance
against the success criteria.
Offsite:
BIO -40: Prior to construction of the Project, including the offsite utility field, a
jurisdictional delineation should be conducted to determine the presence or
absence and potential regulatory status of any jurisdictional features should
it be determined they may be impacted by installation of water wells and
the electric power substation within a proposed impact area. If impacts to
jurisdictional features are identified, the Project proponent shall comply
with the regulatory requirements of the USACE, RWQCB and CDFW, as
applicable, regarding required regulatory permits, including a Section 1602
Streambed Alteration Agreement, Section 404 Permit, Section 401 Water
Quality Certification. Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the Project
proponent shall implement the recommendations of the Project Drainage
Study (DEIR, Appendix J.3) and in accordance with the recommendations
of the Project Drainage Plan prior to issuance of a grading permit obtain a
Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) from the Federal Emergency
Management Agency. The Project Proponent shall obtain a Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) prior to issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy.
vi. Finding Related to Impacts to Riparian Habitat or Other Sensitive Natural
Community:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects to riparian habitat
or other sensitive natural community described above and further discussed in the Final EIR,
changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or
substantially lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and
further finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through
implementation of Mitigation Measures BIO -38, BIO -39, and BIO -40, as recommended in the
Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the MMRP,
Development Agreement, and project conditions of approval.
35
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Parkinsonia florida — Olneya tesota Woodland (Blue Palo Verde — Ironwood Woodland)
community is also identified as Desert Dry Wash Woodland habitat subject to CDFW jurisdiction.
The Project will result in permanent impacts to 53.15 acres and temporary impacts to 12.15 acres
of CDFW jurisdictional streambed. The Project would temporarily impact approximately 2.67
acres and permanently impact 10.73 acres of Desert Dry Wash Woodland habitat. Approximately
1.26 acres of temporary impacts and 5.82 acres of permanent impacts to Desert Dry Wash
Woodland habitat occurs within the CDFW jurisdictional streambed and the remaining 1.41 acres
of temporary impacts and 4.91 acres of permanent impacts to Desert Dry Wash Woodland habitat
is associated with the CDFW jurisdictional streambed.
The permanent and temporary loss of this sensitive natural community would be potentially
significant prior to mitigation. However, the permanent protection of avoided jurisdictional
resources on the Project site and additional habitat on lands to the west and south through a formal
conservation instrument (e.g., easement), and implementation of measures provided in the USFWS
BO, (refer to Appendix D.1), CVCC's Final JPR (refer to Appendix D.5), and Mitigation Measures
BIO -38 and BIO -39 would reduce impacts to level of less than significant.
Off -Site Utility Field: Based on an assessment conducted by Michael Baker, aquatic features
potentially falling under State jurisdiction are present within the off-site locations. The review
indicated that an agricultural pond and a potential wetland area is located within the off-site area.
Based on the analysis provided by Michael Baker (2021), these features potentially fall under
regulatory jurisdiction of the Regional Water Quality Control Board and/or CDFW pursuant to the
Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act and the California Fish and Game Code CFGC,
respectively. Project -level environmental review of the wells and substation will be conducted by
CVWD and IID, respectively, in their roles as CEQA lead agencies, and once site-specific
locations of the infrastructure is available. A jurisdictional delineation is recommended at these
off-site areas, once the site locations for the wells and the substation have been determined to
assess the potential regulatory status of these features the degree to which they may be impacted
by installation of water wells and the electric power substation. This recommendation is reflected
in Mitigation Measure BIO -40.
D. CULTURAL RESOURCES
i. Adverse Change in the Significance of a Historical or Archaeological
Resource:
Based on the results of archaeological surveys, a total of 46 resources (27 archaeological sites and
19 isolated finds) were identified within the Project area of potential effects (APE). The previously
recorded resources that could potentially be adversely impacted by the proposed Project include
ten NRHP or CRHR eligible historical or archaeological resources (sites P-33-001331, P-33-
003872, P-33-003873, P-33-003874, P-33-005323, P-33-014844, P-33-014845, P-33-014846, P-
33-014847; and P-33-014988) have been identified within the APE. However, they were located
outside of the Project area of direct impact (ADI). SWCA determined that Site P-33-014988, which
included prehistoric milling slicks, is individually eligible for listing in the NRHP or CRHR. The
remaining nine consist of prehistoric milling slicks, ceramic scatter, bedrock milling station and a
36
habitation site, and are recommended eligible as contributors to the Martinez Mountain Rockslide
District (MMRD). SWCA concluded that the nine newly identified resources are not eligible for
listing in the NRHP or CRHR.
The proposed Project property avoids impacts to all identified and potentially significant
archaeological sites (NHPA historic properties and CRHR historic resources) located within the
APE. Specifically, the Project avoids disturbances to all historic properties and historic resources
in and near the APE. The area of direct impact, which includes all areas directly affected by Project
construction, completely avoids all resources that are eligible either individually or as contributors
to the MMRD. These resources are located within the designated open space natural areas
(Planning Area 20) and will not be developed, nor will they be affected by Project construction or
operation, which allows for their long-term protection and conservation.
Although the Project will avoid impacts to cultural resources, due to the sensitivity of the area
impacts are considered significant without mitigation.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential impacts to historic resources, the following mitigation
measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
CR -1 Prior to any ground -disturbing activities, the Project applicant shall retain a
qualified archaeologist, defined as an archaeologist that meets the Secretary
of Interior's Standards for professional archaeology, to carry out all
mitigation measures related to cultural resources. Tribal monitoring of site
disturbance will also be accommodated.
CR -2 The Project applicant shall assign a compliance officer for the Project to
ensure mitigation measures are in place and followed for the duration of
Project construction. The compliance officer should prepare a monthly
compliance report for distribution to the City, BOR, BLM, and interested
Native American groups. The compliance officer may be the same person
as the Project archaeologist or may be another qualified individual
designated by the Project applicant.
CR -3 Prior to the commencement of ground disturbance, a Tribal Cultural
Resources Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (Monitoring Plan) shall be
prepared. The Monitoring Plan shall include, but not be limited to:
principles and procedures for the identification of cultural resources
monitoring protocols consistent with CR -1, CR -2 and CR -7 for ground -
disturbing activities, a worker training program consistent with CR -6, and
discovery and processing protocols for inadvertent discoveries of cultural
resources consistent with CR -7 and CR -8. The plan shall detail protocols
for determining circumstances in which additional or reduced levels of
monitoring (e.g., spot checking) may be appropriate. Fencing with a buffer
shall be placed around resources to be avoided. The Monitoring Plan shall
37
also establish a protocol for communicating with the lead agencies and
interested Native American parties.
CR -4 Prior to ground -disturbing activities in any areas outside the APE described
in the Project EIR, Exhibit 4.5-1, including but not limited to locations
proposed for the off-site utility field, a supplemental study including an
updated records search at the EIC, updated Sacred Lands File search, and
pedestrian survey, shall be conducted. If resources are identified and cannot
be avoided, they shall be assessed for their eligibility for the NRHP and
CRHR. Avoidance and minimization measures identified as a result of the
study shall be incorporated into the Monitoring Plan.
CR -5 In the event of unanticipated discovery of NRNP- and CRHR-eligible
resources within the APE or the off-site utility field, where operationally
feasible, such resources shall be protected from direct project impacts by
project redesign (i.e., relocation of the ground disturbance, ancillary
facilities, or temporary facilities or work areas). Avoidance mechanisms
shall include temporary fencing and designation of such areas as
environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs) for the duration of the proposed
Project. ESAs shall include the boundary of each historic property plus a
30 -meter (98 -foot) buffer around the resource.
CR -6 Prior to the commencement of ground -disturbing activities, typically at the
Project kick-off, the qualified archaeologist or their designee will provide
cultural sensitivity training to construction crews. The training will provide
information on signs of potential cultural resources, regulatory
requirements for the protection of cultural resources and the proper
procedures to follow should unanticipated cultural resources discoveries be
made during construction. Workers will be provided contact information
and protocols to follow if inadvertent discoveries are made. Workers will
be shown examples of the types of tribal cultural resources that might be
encountered and that would require notification of the project archaeologist.
The Project archaeologist shall create a training video, PowerPoint
presentation, or printed literature that can be shown to new workers and
contractors for continuous training throughout the life of the Project.
CR -7 Prior to ground disturbance, an archaeological monitor, working under the
supervision of the qualified archaeologist, and Native American monitors
from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the Torres Martinez
Desert Cahuilla Indians, shall be retained to monitor ground -disturbing
activities. Monitoring will take place within or near ESAs or in other areas
agreed upon by the archaeologist, City, and Native American monitor, and
as identified in the Monitoring Plan. Monitoring activities will include
examining the excavation of native soils as well as the disposal of spoils in
certain areas. The duration, timing and location of the monitoring shall be
determined by the City in consultation with the qualified archaeologist and
Native American monitors as outlined in the Monitoring Plan. Should
buried cultural deposits be encountered, the Monitor may request that
destructive construction halt 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. Additionally, fencing with a buffer shall
be required around resources to be avoided.
CR -8 In the event that cultural resources are exposed during excavation, work in
the immediate vicinity of the find must stop until a qualified archaeologist
can evaluate the significance of the find. Ground -disturbing activities may
continue in other areas. For discoveries located outside of BLM land, if the
City determines, in consideration of the subsequent analysis by the qualified
archaeologist, that the resource is a protected resource under CEQA
(Section 15064.5f, PRC 21082) additional work such as testing or data
recovery may be warranted prior to resumption of ground -disturbing
activity in the location of discovery. For discoveries located on BLM-land,
if the BLM determines, in consideration of the subsequent analysis by the
qualified archaeologist, that the resource is protected under Section 106 of
the NHPA, additional work such as testing or data recovery may be
warranted prior to resumption of ground -disturbing activity in the location
of discovery. Should any tribal cultural resources be encountered, additional
consultation with California Native American Heritage Commission
(NAHC)—listed tribal groups should be conducted in coordination with the
City and/or with the BLM and BOR if the discovery occurs on federal lands.
iii. Finding Related Adverse Changes in the Significance of a Historical or
Archaeological Resource:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for the significant effects on historic resources
described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant
environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such effects will be
mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation Measures CR -1
through CR -8, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are
enforceable through the MMRP, Development Agreement, and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
While implementation of the Project has the potential to impact the identified cultural resources
described above and in the Draft EIR (see pp. 4.5-15 — 4.5-17), these potentially significant impacts
to cultural resources will be mitigated to below a level of significance through implementation of
Mitigation Measures CR -1 through CR -8 which requires the preparation of a monitoring and
mitigation program plan to implement strategies for avoiding and minimizing impacts to cultural
resources cultural sensitivity training to construction crews, and retaining a qualified archaeologist
and/or a compliance officer to implement the mitigation measures and training. Mitigation
Measures will also include an archaeological and/or Native American monitor during certain
39
ground -disturbing activities. If cultural resources are exposed during excavations or other ground
disturbances, work in the immediate vicinity of the find must stop until a qualified archaeologist
can evaluate the significance of the find. Additionally, supplemental studies for areas outside the
APE, are required, and all unevaluated and NRHP- and CRHR-eligible resources shall be protected
from direct Project impacts through avoidance mechanisms (i.e., fencing, designating
environmentally sensitive areas). Therefore, development of the proposed Project would result in
less than significant impacts to cultural resources with the implementation of mitigation measures.
Although the location of the off-site utility field has not been determined, the general area where
the off-site improvements are proposed is located in an area with moderate to high sensitivity for
prehistoric and historic -period archaeological resources. Thus, construction of the off-site utility
field may result in impacts to cultural resources. Mitigation Measures CR -4, CR -7 and CR -8
requires the completion of a records search at the EIC, an updated Sacred Lands File search, and
a pedestrian survey shall be required to confirm the presence or absence of potentially sensitive
cultural resources prior to the selection of sites for the CVWD well sites and the IID substation.
Additionally, outreach to local tribes to determine if tribal cultural resources may be impacted is
recommended. Development should be avoided in designated areas, pursuant to the
recommendations of the cultural reports. If the areas identified in the cultural reports cannot be
avoided, additional archaeological testing of any known sites to determine boundaries and
eligibility for listing in the CRHR and NRHP should be conducted prior to any development
activities and monitoring of all ground -disturbing activities is recommended (Draft EIR at p. 4.5-
17). Impacts of the off-site utility field will be less than significant with incorporation of the above
listed mitigation measures.
iv. Disturbance of any Human Remains, Including Those Interred Outside of
Dedicated Cemeteries:
The project occurs in a highly sensitive area, and ground disturbing activities could result in the
identification of additional resources, including previously unidentified cremations and human
remains, and this is considered a potentially significant adverse effect.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential impacts concerning the discovery of human remains, the
following mitigation measure is hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
CR -9 If human remains are encountered, pursuant to State of California Health
and Safety Code Section 7050.5, no further disturbance shall occur until the
Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and
disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The Riverside County
Coroner must be notified of the find immediately. Additional procedures
for responding to the unanticipated discovery of human remains are outlined
below.
.O
Modern Remains
If the Coroner's Office determines the remains are of modern origin, the
appropriate law enforcement officials will be called by the Coroner and
conduct the required procedures. Work will not resume until law
enforcement has released the area.
Archaeological Remains
If the remains are determined to be archaeological in origin, the appropriate
protocol is determined by whether the discovery site is located on federally
or non -federally owned or managed lands.
Remains Discovered on Federally Owned or Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined that the remains are archaeological or
historic in age, the appropriate BLM Palm Springs Field Office or BOR
archaeologist must be called. The archaeologist will initiate the proper
procedures under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). If
the remains can be determined to be Native American, the steps as outlined
in NAGPRA, 43 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 10.6 Inadvertent
discoveries, must be followed.
Resumption of Activity: The activity that resulted in the discovery of human
remains on federal lands may resume after a written, binding agreement is
executed between the BLM or BOR and federally recognized affiliated
Indian Tribe(s) that adopts a recovery plan for the excavation or removal of
the human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural
patrimony following 43 CFR Section 10.3(b)(1) of these regulations. The
disposition of all human remains and NAGPRA items shall be carried out
following 43 CFR 10.6.
Remains Discovered on Non -Federally Owned/Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined the remains on non -federally owned or
managed lands are archaeological, the Coroner will make recommendations
concerning the treatment and disposition of the remains to the person
responsible for the excavation or discovery, or to his or her authorized
representative. If the Coroner believes the remains to be those of a Native
American, he/she shall contact the California NAHC by telephone within
24 hours. The NAHC will notify the person it believes to be the most likely
descendant (MLD) of the remains. The MLD has 48 hours after accessing
the site of the discovery to make recommendations to the landowner for
treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the MLD does not make
recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains
in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. If the landowner
41
does not accept the descendant's recommendations, the owner or the
descendent may request mediation by the NAHC.
vi. Finding Related to Disturbance of Human Remains, Including Those Interred
Outside of Dedicated Cemeteries:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects concerning human
remains described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have
been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Draft EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measure CR -9, as recommended in the Final EIR, which has been adopted by the City and is
enforceable through the Development Agreement, as well as the MMRP and project conditions of
approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Pursuant to the California Health and Safety Code Section 7050.5 and CEQA Guidelines 15064.5,
in the event of discovery or recognition of any human remains in any location other than a
dedicated cemetery, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby
areas reasonably suspected to overlay adjacent remains. Compliance with these legal requirements,
along with implementation of Mitigation Measure CR -9, which requires the presence of a qualified
archaeologist and Native American resource monitors during all ground disturbing activities, will
ensure that potential impacts relating to human remains will be less than significant.
E. GEOLOGY AND SOILS.
i. Directly or Indirectly Cause Potential Substantial Adverse Effects, Including
the Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Strong Seismic Ground Shaking:
The Project has the potential to experience strong seismic ground shaking, due to the Project's
location to regional faults. The Project property is located approximately 10 miles southwest of
the closest active fault zone, the San Andreas Fault, which is the controlling fault for the property.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with seismic -related ground
shaking, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent
with the MMRP:
GEO-1 The Project developer shall implement the seismic design criteria and
parameters, in accordance with ASCE 7-16 and 2019 CBC, as set forth in
the Project geotechnical evaluation.
GEO-2 The design of foundation and slabs (including bearing pressure
recommendations) shall be in conformance with the recommendations of
42
the Project structural engineer and as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation.
iii. Finding Related Potential Substantial Adverse Effects, Including the Risk of
Loss, Injury, or Death Involving Strong Seismic Ground Shaking:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
seismic -related ground shaking, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR,
changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or
substantially lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and
further finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through
implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-1 and GEO-2, as recommended in the Final EIR,
which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement
the MMRP and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project will be constructed in a manner that reduces the risk of seismic hazards (Title 24,
California Code of Regulations). According to the Project -specific Geotechnical Evaluation and
the 2019 California Building Code (CBC), Site Class D may be used to estimate design seismic
loading for the proposed Project's structures. The Site Class is based on the site soil properties in
accordance with Chapter 20 of ASCE 7. Site Class D is classified as "stiff soil". The Geotechnical
Evaluation indicates that Project property soil conditions can be optimized and outlines seismic
design criteria and parameters for the Project to implement in order to reduce impacts to a less than
significant level. The design criteria and parameters were developed in accordance with ASCE 7-
16 and 2019 CBC and are included as Mitigation Measure GEO-1.
The Project shall also comply with all applicable provisions of the CBC, specifically Chapter 16
of the CBC, Structural Design, Section 1613, Earthquake Loads. Site work will be conducted in
accordance with the Project -specific geotechnical and soils analyses required with the submittal of
grading and building plans. This is required in Mitigation Measure GEO-2.
iv. Potential Substantial Adverse Effects, Including the Risk of Loss, Injury, or
Death Due to Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including Liquefaction:
Implementation of the Project has the potential for significant adverse effects associated with
strong seismic ground shaking and seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction, due to
the active faults in the Project vicinity.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with seismic -related ground
failure, including liquefaction, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be
implemented consistent with the MMRP:
43
GEO-3 Grading and excavations shall be performed in accordance with the City of
La Quinta Code and regulations and the General Earthwork and Grading
Specifications set forth in the Geotechnical Evaluation. Clearing and
grubbing of the site shall include removal of any pavement or concrete, turf,
landscaping, miscellaneous trash and debris, and disposal of deleterious
material offsite. The soil engineering properties of imported soil (if any)
shall be evaluated and certified by the Project geologist for use at the
development site.
GEO-4 Unsuitable earth materials shall be removed prior to placement of
compacted fill. Unsuitable materials at the site include undocumented fills
and weathered alluvial fan deposits as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation and as otherwise directed by the Project geologist.
Excavation and grading to carry Project -serving roadways over the Dike
No. 4 levee for the proposed Avenue 62 and Madison Street extensions, as
well the Jefferson Street extension over the Dike No. 2 levee, should bench
into competent existing fills on the sides with minimal removals on the top
(1 to 2 feet). Grading on the levee fill shall be performed under the direction
and concurrence of the US Bureau of Reclamation and CVWD.
GEO-5 Where project soils require, they shall be overexcavated during grading to
be replaced with compacted fill, as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation. The proposed grading is anticipated to expose cut and fill
transitions at finish grade. Shallow fill areas and cut portions of lots should
be overexcavated and replaced with compacted fill to provide a minimum
of 4 feet of uniform fill cap over each lot. Streets should be overexcavated
2 feet below subgrade to provide uniform fill below the pavement section.
Alternatively, and as recommended by the Project geologist, streets may be
overexcavated 2 feet below the deepest utility to reduce the amount of
oversize materials encountered and facilitate utility excavation/installation.
Vi. Finding Related to Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including Liquefaction:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction, described above and further discussed in the
Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project
which avoid or substantially lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final
EIR, and further finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through
implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-3 through GEO-5, as recommended in the Final EIR,
which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement,
as well as the MMRP and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
In order to ensure that effects associated with ground failure are less than significant, the Project
will be required to comply with the site preparation and foundation recommendations listed in the
Project -specific Geotechnical Evaluation. The Geotechnical Evaluation recommends that remedial
grading within the planned building areas include the removal, over -excavation and recompaction
of unsuitable weathered portions of the soils. Additionally, the removal of any pavement or
concrete, turf, landscaping, miscellaneous trash and debris, and disposal of deleterious material
that are incompatible for development or materials with insufficient load-bearing capacity to
support the onsite structures are recommended. These recommended mitigating measures would
ensure that Project soils are absent of debris, organic material, and loose surface soil, and are
compacted to provide firm and uniform foundation bearing conditions. Grading activities and
removal of unsuitable or otherwise unsuitable soils are prescribed in Mitigation Measures GEO-3
through GEO-5.
vii. Substantial Adverse Effects, Including the Risk of Loss, Injury, or Death
Involving Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including Landslides:
Implementation of the Project has the potential for significant adverse effects associated with
strong seismic ground shaking and seismic -related ground failure, including landslides, due to the
active faults in the Project vicinity. The Project is located immediately southwest of Coral
Mountain, and immediately north of the Martinez Rockslide landform. The granitic bedrock ridge
associated with Coral Mountain at the north end of the Project property was found to generally be
fractured and jointed and has been mapped as a potential rockfall hazard. In general, the Project
proposes no development to occur within a 100 -foot offset from this bedrock ridge. The toe of the
Martinez Rockslide landslide consists primarily of boulder material with an elevated slope that is
200 to 300 feet above the adjacent alluvial fan, and therefore, could result in rockfall. The Santa
Rosa Mountains are located west of the Project. However, due to the Project's distance from the
Santa Rosa Mountains, the Project is not anticipated to induce rockfalls or landslides.
viii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with seismic -related ground
failure, including landslides, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be
implemented consistent with the MMRP:
GEO-4 Unsuitable earth materials shall be removed prior to placement of
compacted fill. Unsuitable materials at the site include undocumented fills
and weathered alluvial fan deposits as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation and as otherwise directed by the Project geologist.
Excavation and grading to carry Project -serving roadways over the Dike
No. 4 levee for the proposed Avenue 62 and Madison Street extensions, as
well the Jefferson Street extension over the Dike No. 2 levee, should bench
into competent existing fills on the sides with minimal removals on the top
(1 to 2 feet). Grading on the levee fill shall be performed under the direction
and concurrence of the US Bureau of Reclamation and CVWD.
45
GEO-6 Rockfall hazard analysis should be performed during the design phase if
structures are planned within 100 feet of these hillsides (i.e., Coral
Mountain and Martinez Rockslide) once plans are further developed to
evaluate this hazard and provide site-specific mitigation recommendations
(i.e., impact walls or berms/channels), as required.
GEO-7 Slopes shall be engineered for stability, including during seismic events, to
reduce potential slope failure hazards, as set forth in the Project
geotechnical evaluation.
GEO-8 Manufactured Slope Maintenance and Protection. To reduce the erosion and
surficial slumping potential of the graded slopes, permanent manufactured
slopes shall be protected from erosion by concrete lining, riprap,
groundcover planting or other appropriate method (i.e., jute matting,
polymer coating, etc.) as approved by the Project geologist. These measures
shall be applied as soon as practicable. Drainage shall be designed and
maintained to collect surface waters and direct them away from
manufactured slopes and as required by the Project geologist.
GEO-9 Structural setbacks, including those for retaining walls, shall be established
as prescribed by the Project geotechnical engineer.
ix. Finding Related to Substantial Adverse Effects Including the Risk of Loss,
Injury, or Death Involving Seismic -Related Ground Failure, Including
Landslides:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
landslides, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations
have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measures GEO-4, GEO-6 through GEO-9, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been
adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project
conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The proposed residential and resort Project components will not be located immediately adjacent
to the existing natural landforms. In general, the Project proposes no development to occur within
a 100 -foot offset from Coral Mountain. However, the Geotechnical Evaluation recommends that
a rockfall hazard review and/or analysis should be performed at a later date at this location once
plans are further developed to evaluate this hazard and provide refined mitigation
recommendations (i.e., additional special buffer, impact walls, berms/channels, etc.) if required.
This is indicated as Mitigation Measure GEO-6. Development setbacks will be approximately 950
feet from the toe of the Martinez Rockslide and separated by approximately 301.2 acres of natural
open space. Based on the setback distance and lack of potential energy and upslope materials, the
M
Geotechnical Evaluation determined that the Project is unlikely to impact the Martinez Rockslide
landform.
The Project proposes permanent artificial slopes up to 80 feet high that will be cut from and/or
underlain by alluvial fan materials. The proposed slopes will be engineered to be globally stable
under static and pseudo -static loading conditions and will include remedial removal of
inappropriate fill materials. Recommendations set forth in the Project Geotechnical Evaluation for
ongoing design engineering will ensure that all manufactured slopes are appropriately designed
and constructed (Mitigation Measures GEO-4, GEO-7, and GEO-8). Mitigation strategies that will
be applied during Project site development include requirements that the stability of permanent
manufactured slopes are protected from erosion. Moreover, the Geotechnical Evaluation
establishes setback standards for structures from major manufactured slopes, including but not
limited to retaining walls located above descending slopes. Structural setbacks, including those for
retaining walls, shall be established as prescribed by the Project consulting geologist (Mitigation
Measure GEO-9). The Project shall be required to implement Mitigation Measures GEO-4, and
GEO-7 through GEO-9 in order to reduce impacts of permanent slopes to less than significant
levels.
X. Result in Soil Erosion or Loss of Top Soil:
The Project is located in an area with a high and very high Wind Erodibility Rating. The Project
property is currently vacant with scattered, low-lying vegetation, and remnants of an abandoned
vineyard on approximately 220 acres in the northern portion of the property. The construction of
this Project will involve ground disturbing activities, such as the clearing and grubbing of existing
vegetation, removal of materials associated with pervious vineyard operations, and grading of the
property. Development will also include mass and fine grading associated with manufactured
development pads and flood control embankments. These activities will expose large areas of
undisturbed land and will substantially increase the potential of soil erosion during development
(Draft EIR at p. 4.7-19). In order to reduce the effect of windborne erosion at the Project site, prior
to site disturbance, the Project shall submit and implement a City -approved dust control plan that
is compliant with the Coachella Valley PM 10 State Implementation Plan (PM 10 Plan).
In addition to windborne erosion, the Project property and affected soils are subject to waterborne
erosion which must be managed during and following Project development. The development site
is crossed or affected by a series of braided streams and larger drainages transporting large volumes
of sand and gravel that could impact the site during and following construction if not properly
managed. Existing site drainage is somewhat affected by remnant diversions on the west end of
the abandoned vineyard; otherwise, the site and drainages are in a largely natural condition flowing
generally west to east. The Guadalupe Dike located along the northern Project property area is a
training levee that diverts mountain runoff into the Guadalupe Chanel and terminating in the Dike
No. 4 impound area west of the Project property (Draft EIR at p. 4.7-20).
Xi. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with erosion, the following
mitigation measure is hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
47
GEO-10 The project proponent shall comply with the most current Construction
General Permit (CGP) (Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ as amended by 20 10-
00 14-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 SWPPP may include, but is not limited to, the following BMPs:
• Temporary Soil Stabilization: sandbag barriers, straw bale barriers,
sediment traps, and fiber rolls;
• Temporary Sediment Control: hydraulic mulch and geotextiles;
• Wind Erosion Control: watering of the construction site, straw
mulch;
• Tracking Control: staging/storage area and street sweeping;
• Non-stormwater Management: clear water diversion and
dewatering; and
• Waste Management and Materials Pollution Control: vehicle and
equipment cleaning, concrete waste management, and contaminated
soil management.
xii. Finding Related to Soil Erosion or Loss of Topsoil:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to erosion
described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant
environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such effects will be
mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation Measure GEO-10,
as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable
through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project grading will be performed in accordance with the most current Construction General
Permit (CGP) (Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ as amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and 2012-0006-
DWQ) to ensure that waterborne erosions of soils is minimized. It 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 Project shall be required to prepare and
implement a City approved Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) pursuant to Mitigation
Measure GEO-10 and will ensure that impacts from waterborne soil erosion are less than
significant. As stated above, post -development, the Project will include concrete or riprap-lined
and hardened flood control levees on the west and south portions of the Project development site,
as well as stormwater retention basins. Soils within the developed portions of the site will be
stabilized by landscaping (including gravel and groundcovers, buildings, streets, drainage
facilities, and paved areas throughout the property.
xiii. Located on an Unstable Geologic Unit Resulting in Potential for On -Site or
Off-site Lateral Spreading, Subsidence, Liquefaction or Collapse:
Liquefaction: The Project is located in an area not susceptible to liquefaction (or
subsequent actions such as lateral spreading) due to the lack of shallow groundwater.
Collapse: Young alluvial and wind -deposited sediments in the City may be locally
susceptible to soil collapse due to their low density, rapid deposition in the desert environment,
and the generally dry condition of the upper soils. Based on NMG's evaluation of the existing
subsurface borings and laboratory data, the near -surface soil at the site generally consists of
weathered, low density and/or porous material and undocumented fill material (associated with
vineyard and flood control levee grading). This unsuitable soil is prone to significant soil collapse
or consolidation and has poor bearing properties. The Geotechnical Evaluation included
hydroconsolidation tests on two relatively undisturbed ring samples collected at depths of 20 to 30
feet. Hydroconsolidation potential of the samples, which can mitigate for low -cohesion soils, was
considered to be moderate based on the findings of the Geotechnical Evaluation.
xiv. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with development on an
unstable geologic unit or expansive soil, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted
and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
GEO-3 Grading and excavations shall be performed in accordance with the City of
La Quinta Code and regulations and the General Earthwork and Grading
Specifications set forth in the Geotechnical Evaluation. Clearing and
grubbing of the site shall include removal of any pavement or concrete, turf,
landscaping, miscellaneous trash and debris, and disposal of deleterious
material offsite. The soil engineering properties of imported soil (if any)
shall be evaluated and certified by the Project geologist for use at the
development site.
GE04 Unsuitable earth materials shall be removed prior to placement of
compacted fill. Unsuitable materials at the site include undocumented fills
and weathered alluvial fan deposits as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation and as otherwise directed by the Project geologist.
Excavation and grading to carry Project -serving roadways over the Dike
No. 4 levee for the proposed Avenue 62 and Madison Street extensions, as
well the Jefferson Street extension over the Dike No. 2 levee, should bench
into competent existing fills on the sides with minimal removals on the top
(1 to 2 feet). Grading on the levee fill shall be performed under the direction
and concurrence of the US Bureau of Reclamation and CVWD.
GEO-5 Where project soils require, they shall be overexcavated during grading to
be replaced with compacted fill, as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation. The proposed grading is anticipated to expose cut and fill
transitions at finish grade. Shallow fill areas and cut portions of lots should
be overexcavated and replaced with compacted fill to provide a minimum
of 4 feet of uniform fill cap over each lot. Streets should be overexcavated
2 feet below subgrade to provide uniform fill below the pavement section.
Alternatively, and as recommended by the Project geologist, streets may be
overexcavated 2 feet below the deepest utility to reduce the amount of
oversize materials encountered and facilitate utility excavation/installation.
xv. Finding Regarding On -Site or Off-site Lateral Spreading, Subsidence,
Liquefaction or Collapse:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
liquefaction described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations
have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measures GEO-3 through GEO-5, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by
the City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions
of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Although the potential for liquefaction, and subsequent effects (i.e., lateral spread, heaving and
differential settling), is considered low at the Project property, development within the Project
property will be required to comply with the current California Building Code (CBC) standards,
City requirements, the recommendations provided in the Geotechnical Evaluation, and Mitigation
Measures GEO-3 through GEO-5. With the implementation of regulatory requirements and
mitigation measures, impacts of liquefaction, and the secondary effects of liquefaction, such as
lateral spread, will be less than significant.
Soil testing determined that onsite soils are considered to have moderate susceptibility to soil
collapse. Therefore, the Project shall ensure Project soils and foundations are stable to support the
Project buildings. This will be achieved by grading and excavating, and clearing and grubbing any
deleterious materials, removing undocumented fills and weathered alluvial fan deposits, and
overexcavating during grading and replacing soils with compacted fill. Thus, implementation of
Mitigation Measures GEO-3 through GEO-5 will reduce impacts of soil collapse at the Project
property to less than significant levels.
xvi. Located on Expansive Soil:
The Geotechnical Evaluation determined that the expansion potential is anticipated to generally
range from "very low" to "low". However, development of homes and other project components
on the Project site could potentially expose persons and property to substantial damage and harm,
which is considered a potentially significant adverse effect.
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xvii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with development on an
unstable geologic unit or expansive soil, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted
and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
GEO-2 The design of foundation and slabs (including bearing pressure
recommendations) shall be in conformance with the recommendations of
the Project structural engineer and as set forth in the Project geotechnical
evaluation.
GEO-11 Expansion Potential. The expansion potential of the on-site soils is low to
very low. In accordance with the Project geotechnical evaluation
recommendations, additional laboratory testing shall be performed
following completion of grading operations to verify the expansion
potential of the near -surface soils.
xviii. Finding Regarding Expansive Soils:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
development on expansive soil described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR,
changes or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or
substantially lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and
further finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through
implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-2 and GEO-11, as recommended in the Final EIR,
which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the MMRP, Development
Agreement, and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project shall comply with the recommendations established within the Project -specific
Geotechnical Evaluation to ensure the foundational safety of the Project site. The foundational
design recommendations established in the Geotechnical Evaluation are reflected in Mitigation
Measure GEO-2. Additionally, the Geotechnical Evaluation recommends that additional
laboratory testing be performed following completion of grading operations to determine the
expansion potential of the near -surface soils. This is prescribed by Mitigation Measure GEO-11.
With the implementation of Mitigation Measures GEO-2 and GEO-11, the impact of expansive
soils will be less than significant.
xix. Impacts to a Unique Paleontological Resource, Site or Unique Geologic
Feature:
While no previously recorded paleontological resources have been identified within the Project
property and proposed off-site improvement areas, several are known to occur within 3 miles of
the Project property from the Lake Cahuilla Beds and/or late Pleistocene alluvial deposits. The
Project property crosses multiple geologic units, including alluvium, alluvial fans gravels,
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landslide deposits, and quartz diorite, as well as unmapped Lake Cahuilla beds underlying alluvial
deposits at shallow depth.
XX. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects on a unique paleontological resource,
site or geologic feature, the following mitigation measure is hereby adopted and will be
implemented consistent with the MMRP:
GEO-12 A qualified professional paleontologist shall prepare a Paleontological
Resources Monitoring and Mitigation Plan and a Worker's Environmental
Awareness Program to train the construction crew, both to be implemented
during development.
xxi. Finding:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for the significant effects relating to
paleontological resources described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes
or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially
lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measure GEO-12, as recommended in the Final EIR, which has been adopted by the
City and is enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of
approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Pleistocene alluvial deposits, known to contain paleontological resources within 3 miles, likely
underlie the Project property, possibly as shallow as 5 feet. The alluvial deposits that are present
at the surface within the Project property are too young to preserve fossils but increase in
paleontological sensitivity in the subsurface. Less than 1 percent of the property excavation
activities will impact sediments to maximum depths of greater than 40 feet below ground surface,
including substantial grading, excavating, and trenching. No excavation is expected at a depth
greater than 50 feet below ground surface. Ground -disturbing activities associated with Project
construction would have the potential to impact geologic units of Moderate (PFYC 3) or High
(PFYC 4) paleontological sensitivity, which could result in the damage or destruction of fossil
resources should they occur in the Project site near the surface or at depth. Accordingly, Mitigation
Measure GEO-12 is adopted to reduce and avoid impacts to paleontological resources to less than
significant levels.
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F. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS.
i. Conflict with an Applicable Plan, Policy or Regulation Adopted for the
Purpose of Reducing the Emissions of Greenhouse Gases:
The following plans, policies and regulations apply to the Project: the City's GHG Reduction Plan,
the SCAG's 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (2020-
2045 RTP/SCS), and CARB's 2022 Scoping Plan. Therefore, the DEIR analyzed the Project's
consistency with the plans.
The 2012 La Quinta GHG Reduction Plan conducted the community wide and government specific
greenhouse gas inventory. The GHG Reduction Plan established policies and programs to achieve
the reduction targets. At a minimum, new development is required to adhere to the latest building
code standards, which will increase energy efficiency and use of passive and active design features
intended to benefit the overall operating efficiency of new buildings. The proposed Project will
comply with this requirement by adhering to the applicable building code standards, based on
Table 4.8-5, City of La Quinta Greenhouse Gas Reduction Measures for New Development, on
pages 4.8-19 and 4.8-20 in the DEIR. The Project will encourage and promote energy efficient
development that incorporate sustainable design principles, will not impede on the City's carbon
neutrality goals, will use a diversified portfolio of energy sources, provide mixed uses to reduce
vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled, include facilities for bicycle circulation and parking,
comply with all applicable solid waste statues, policies, and guidelines, comply with Title 6, Heath
and Sanitation Code which covers the composting regulations, and incorporate accessible waste
disposal locations in common and resort areas.
SCAG's 2020-2045 RTP/SCS details how the region will address transportation and land use
challenges and leverage opportunities in order to support attainment of applicable federal ambient
air quality standards and achieve state's GHG emission reduction targets. The RTP/SCS explicitly
lays out goals related to housing, transportation technologies, equity and resilience in order to
adequately reflect the increasing importance of these topics in the region, and where possible the
goals have been developed to link to potential performance measures and targets. The Project will
encourage economic growth at the regional and local level by introducing a mix of uses; provide
balanced street improvements that include non -motorized options for sidewalks, multipurpose
trails, bike lanes, and golf cart/neighborhood electric vehicle lanes; comply with the security and
resilience of the regional transportation system; incorporate project design features and mitigation
measures to reduce GHG and criteria air pollutant emissions; designate pedestrian paths and trails
incorporated into the project's site design allowing for a healthy community; encourage the
development of diverse housing types; and ensure that the Project is compatible with the
CVMSHCP. (See page 4.8-23 to 4.8-25).
The 2017 Scoping Plan reflects the 2030 target of a 40% reduction below 1990 levels, set by
Executive Order B-30-15 and codified by SB 32. The project will not conflict with any of the
provisions of the 2017 Scoping Plan and in fact supports seven of the action categories, as indicated
in Table 4.8-6, Scoping Plan Consistency Summary, on page 4.8-26 in the DEIR. Per Table 4.8-6,
the actions in the Scoping Plan to implement SB 350 by 2030, mobile source strategy (cleaner
technology fuels), California Sustainable Freight Action Plan, Short -Lived Climate Pollutant
Strategy by 2030, and develop Integrated Natural and Working Lands Implementation Plan to
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secure California's land based as a net carbon sink are not applicable to the Project, however, the
Project is consistent.
The 2022 Scoping Plan recommends project consistency with a locally adopted plan for the
regulation of greenhouse gas emissions as the preferred method for CEQA lead agencies to
demonstrate that land use projects are consistent with state long-term GHG emission reduction
targets. The 2022 Scoping Plan also endorses the use of GHG thresholds adopted by local air
districts. As discussed above, the Project is consistent with the City's Greenhouse Gas Emissions
Reduction Plan. Further, and in order to demonstrate compliance with the SCAQMD GHG
efficiency metric and state long-term targets for the reduction of GHG emissions, the Project will
implement MM GHG-1 through GHG-11 to further reduce Project GHG emissions.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with the conflict with an
applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of
greenhouse gases, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented
consistent with the MMRP:
GHG-1 Prior to the issuance of occupancy permits, the project applicant shall
purchase a minimum of approximately 408,720 MTCO2e credits
(approximately 13,624 MTCO2e per year for 30 years). The purchase of
carbon credits must be made from a CARB-approved carbon registry with
independent third -party verification. Examples of approved registries
include the American Carbon Registry, Climate Action Reserve, and Verra.
The applicant shall submit documentation of the offset purchase to the City
demonstrating that it mitigates a minimum of approximately 13,624
MTCO2e per year (408,720 MTCO2e over a 30 -year period), prior to any
occupancy of the site. Alternatively, the project applicant may submit a
GHG reduction plan to the City for approval that achieves an equal level of
GHG reduction outlined herein. The GHG plan must include enforceable
actions that reduce GHG emissions to at or below the total mitigated values
presented herein.
GHG-2 All residences shall incorporate roof -top solar panels, in-home batteries and
EV charger stations to facilitate use of EVs, golf carts and other low -speed
electric vehicles (LSEVs).
GHG-3 All planned single-family homes shall be electric -ready and shall include
electrical circuits for space heating, water heating, cooking/ovens, and
clothes dryers, electrical panel, branch circuits, and transfer switch for
battery storage.
GHG-4 Dedicated circuits and panels in residential and commercial buildings shall
be provided to easily convert from natural gas to electric in the future.
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GHG-5 All non-residential components of the development where vehicle parking
is provided shall provide EV chargers.
GHG-6 All household and other appliances shall be of the highest energy efficiency
rating, such as Energy Star, practicable at the time of purchase.
GHG-7 To limit and reduce energy use associated with water consumption, all
project landscaping shall be desert and other drought tolerant vegetation,
consistent with the local development standards.
GHG-8 All HVAC systems shall be Very High Efficiency HVAC (SEER 16/80%
AFUE or 9 HSPF) or greater efficiency.
GHG-9 All domestic hot water systems shall be Very High Efficiency Water Heater
(0.92 Energy Factor) with Enhanced Solar Pre -heat System (min. 0.35 Net
Solar Fraction).
GHG-10 All potable water fixtures shall have EPA WaterSense Certification or
greater efficiency.
iii. Finding Regarding the Project's Consistency with Applicable Plans, Policies
or Regulations Adopted for the Purpose of Reducing the Emissions of
Greenhouse Gases:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to the
Project's consistency with applicable plans, policies, or regulations adopted for the purpose of
reducing GHG emissions, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes
or alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially
lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measures GHG-1 through GHG-10, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have
been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and
Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
In order to demonstrate compliance with the SCAQMD GHG efficiency metric and state long-
term targets for the reduction of GHG emissions, the Project will implement MM GHG-1 through
GHG-10 to further reduce Project GHG emissions. Mitigation Measures GHG-1 through GHG-10
requires the Project's purchase of carbon credits, the installation of roof -top solar, in-home
batteries, and EV charger stations, homes shall be electric -ready and easily convertible from
natural gas to electric, household appliances shall have the highest energy efficiency rating (i.e.,
Energy Star), include desert landscaping to reduce energy use with water consumption, and install
high efficiency HVAC systems, hot water systems, and water fixtures. In conclusion, the Project
is consistent with the City's Greenhouse Gas Emissions Reduction Plan, SCAG's RTP/SCS, and
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CARB's Scoping Plan. For this reason, Project impacts on applicable plans, policies or regulations
adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases are less than significant.
G. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
i. Create a Significant Hazard to the Public or the Environment due to Routine
Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous Waste, or Hazard through
Reasonably Foreseeable Upset and Accident Conditions:
Implementation of the Project has the potential to utilize hazardous wastes during construction and
operation of the residential and resort property. Construction of the Project will include the clearing
and grubbing of remaining vineyard materials, including stockpiles of used trellis slats. It is
assumed that the trellis slats were pressure treated, therefore, the associated agricultural waste shall
be collected and hauled to an approved landfill. During a site inspection conducted for a Phase I
ESA, construction debris, asbestos -cement piping (ACM), and unlabeled, rusted drums and
containers the shape and size of paint cans, paint thinner cans, oil, kerosine, and other potentially
hazardous materials were discovered onsite. Typical of construction -related activities, it is likely
that the Project will use and store hazardous materials (i.e., oils, petroleum-based fuels and other
potentially flammable or toxic substances) onsite during development of the Project.
Operation of the Project would include residential uses and activities and resort golf activities.
Residential land uses do not typically result in the use of excessive amounts of hazardous materials,
or the routine transport of hazardous materials. The handling, application, and storage of household
cleaning products, paints, solvents, and other related household substances are expected to occur
in small quantities.
The golf training facility proposed would likely include a storage/maintenance area where golf
carts would be stored, serviced and maintained; and another building where landscape equipment
as well as hazardous materials associated with landscape maintenance (fertilizers, pesticides,
herbicides) would be stored. The golf carts will be stored in a Cart Barn with proper wash bay
drainage with clarifier. The maintenance yard for the proposed Project will require proper storage
bays that will not allow run off. Wash bays will be required for maintenance equipment, and
storage tanks will be required for equipment fuel. Onsite storage and maintenance areas may
include hazardous materials associated with landscape maintenance (fertilizers, pesticides,
herbicides), as well as the maintenance of golf carts and other equipment used onsite. If the site
stores hazardous materials and/or wastes in quantities greater than or equal to 55 gallons of a liquid
substance, 500 pounds of a solid substance, or 200 cubic feet of compressed gas, the site is
considered a Hazardous Materials Handler.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with the transport, storage,
and use or accidental release of hazardous materials, the following mitigation measures are hereby
adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
HAZ-1 Prior to grading, Limited Phase II Subsurface Investigation shall be
required. The Limited Phase II Subsurface Investigation shall be conducted
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by an Environmental Professional as defined in Section 312.10 of 40 CFR
Part 312.
• Per Section 312.10, an Environmental Professional is an
environmental consultant that has an accredited education in earth
or natural science, at least five years of formal training under another
environmental professional, a professional state license, and
maintains expert knowledge in the environmental geology,
sustainability, and engineering fields.
• If chemicals exceeding regulatory thresholds are identified during
the Phase II study, the Project will develop a Soils Management
Plan. The Phase II study will be conducted pursuant to ASTM
E1903-19 industry standards.
HAZ-2 A site-specific Soils Management Plan (SMP) shall be developed by an
Environmental Professional for the Project property if chemical levels
exceeding regulatory thresholds are identified during the Limited Phase II
Subsurface Investigation. The SMP shall be implemented during excavation
and grading of the Project, and describe the protocol for managing
(potentially contaminated) soils and disposing of (potentially hazardous)
debris, as well as guidelines for handling known and/or undocumented
subsurface features if discovered.
HAZ-3 All agricultural related debris, materials, and foundations shall be removed
and hauled to an appropriate landfill prior to land disturbance in the
previous vineyard area. If significant soil staining is found at previous
storage locations, stained soil shall be excavated and disposed of in an
approved landfill.
HAZ-4 In compliance with the Construction General Permit (CGP) (Order No.
2009-009-DWQ as amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and 2012-0006-DWQ),
the Project shall develop and implement a Project -specific Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for construction of the Project. The
SWPPP shall include comprehensive handling, storage, and management
procedures for building materials, especially those that are hazardous and
toxic. The designation of staging areas for activities (i.e., fueling and
maintaining vehicles, mixing paints, plaster, mortar, etc.), and storage of
hazardous materials (i.e., paints, solvents, pesticides, fuels, oils, etc.) shall
be determined in the SWPPP. Best management practices (BMPs) are
required in the SWPPP that demonstrate proper material delivery and
storage; material use; and spill prevention and control. The SWPPP may
include, but is not limited to, the following BMPs:
• Temporary Soil Stabilization: sandbag barriers, straw bale barriers,
sediment traps, and fiber rolls;
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• Temporary Sediment Control: hydraulic mulch and geotextiles;
• Wind Erosion Control: watering of the construction site, straw
mulch;
• Tracking Control: staging/storage area and street sweeping;
• Non-stormwater Management: clear water diversion and
dewatering; and
• Waste Management and Materials Pollution Control: vehicle and
equipment cleaning, concrete waste management, and contaminated
soil management.
Lastly, and upon Project completion of construction, all hazardous materials
shall be removed from the Project site and a Notice of Termination (NOT)
shall be filed with the Regional Water Quality Control Board.
HAZ-5 Prior to the development of the golf facility storage and maintenance
facilities, the applicant shall provide a Hazardous Materials Business Plan
(HMBP) to the Riverside County Fire Department for review and approval,
if necessary. The HMBP shall be kept up to date in a location on-site and
be available for review by the Riverside County Fire Department, as needed.
HAZ-6 Should any component of the proposed Project require the storage or
handling of hazardous materials in quantities greater than or equal to 55
gallons of a liquid substance, 500 pounds of a solid substance, or 200 cubic
feet of compressed gas, it shall be required to follow the procedures
established in Chapter 6.95 of the HSC, which requires any business
handling and/or storing a hazardous material shall obtain a permit from the
DEH and electronically submit a business plan in the Statewide
Informational Management System, under the administration of the County
of Riverside DEH.
iii. Finding Regarding the Routine Transport, Use, or Disposal of Hazardous
Materials:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to the
transport, storage, and use or accidental release of hazardous materials, described above and
further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been required in, or
incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant environmental
effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such effects will be mitigated to less
than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-6, as
recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through
the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The previous vineyard operation onsite included the use of trellis slats. Although the site has not
operated as a vineyard for approximately 15 years, stockpiles of used trellis slats are located within
the property. It is likely that herbicides and pesticides were used during the vineyard operations,
which can result in the presence of residual hazardous materials in shallow soils. Additionally,
during a site inspection, construction debris, asbestos -cement piping (ACM), and unlabeled, rusted
drums and containers the shape and size of paint cans, paint thinner cans, oil, kerosine, and other
potentially hazardous materials were discovered onsite. Therefore, Mitigation Measure HAZ-1 is
recommended to ensure that residual volatile organic compounds (VOCs), heavy metals,
petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and/or pesticides/herbicides originating from prior agricultural
uses are appropriately handled during soil site disturbance. Additionally, if hazardous materials
are identified that are above acceptable levels, a site-specific Soils Management Plan (SMP) shall
be developed for the Project site to describe the protocol for managing and disposing of potentially
hazardous soils and debris. The SMP shall be implemented during excavation and grading of the
Project, as required by Mitigation Measure HAZ-2. All agricultural related debris, materials, and
foundations, including the remaining vineyard trellis system, shall be removed and hauled to an
appropriate landfill prior to land disturbance in the previous vineyard area. If significant soil
staining is found at previous storage locations, stained soil should be assessed, excavated, and
disposed of in an approved landfill (Mitigation Measure HAZ-3).
Construction -related activities would result in the use of potentially hazardous materials and other
potential pollutant sources (i.e., paints, solvents, pesticides, fuels and oils). However, these are
regulated through the implementation of measures required by Construction General Permit (CGP)
(Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ as amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and 2012-0006-DWQ), which
requires the development and implementation of a Project -specific Stormwater Pollution
Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for areas greater than one acre and administered by the RWQCB. Per
the CGP, the project's SWPPP shall include comprehensive handling and management procedures
for building materials, including those that are hazardous and toxic. Best management practices
(BMPs) are required in the SWPPP for proper material delivery and storage; material use; and spill
prevention and control. The development and implementation of the SWPPP during construction
of the proposed Project, and in compliance with the requirements of the Construction General
Permit, is required as Mitigation Measure HAZ-4. As previously stated, this mitigation measure
will establish BMPs to ensure the proper use or disposal of hazardous materials and waste
associated with construction of the Project.
Operation of the Project would include residential uses and activities and resort golf activities.
Operation of the golf training facility proposed would likely include a storage/maintenance area
where golf carts would be stored, serviced and maintained; and another building where landscape
equipment as well as hazardous materials associated with landscape maintenance (fertilizers,
pesticides, herbicides) would be stored. If the site stores hazardous materials and/or wastes in
quantities greater than or equal to 55 gallons of a liquid substance, 500 pounds of a solid substance,
or 200 cubic feet of compressed gas, the site is considered a Hazardous Materials Handler. Thus,
a Project -specific Hazardous Materials Business Plan (HMBP) shall be submitted to the Riverside
County Fire Department, as required in Mitigation Measure HAZ-5. Additionally, under the
administration of the County of Riverside Department of Environmental Health (DEH), and in
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compliance with the Hazardous Materials Release Response Plans and Inventory Law, Chapter
6.95 of the California Health and Safety Code (HSC), any business handling and/or storing a
hazardous material shall obtain a permit from the DEH and electronically submit a business plan
in the Statewide Informational Management System. This is required as Mitigation Measure HAZ-
6. Mitigation Measures HAZ-5 and HAZ-6 will ensure that impacts due to the use, transport and
disposal of hazardous materials would be less than significant during Project operation.
iv. Located on a Hazardous Materials Site:
Pursuant to Government Code 65962.5 and its subsections, record searches on the Project property
were performed within multiple database platforms. The EDR Radius Map Report did not identify
the Project site as a hazardous materials site. Although the Project property was not listed as a
hazardous materials site pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5, the use of hazardous
materials prior agricultural operations on approximately 220 acres of the Project could have
resulted in the use of hazardous materials onsite. Hazardous material uses potentially associated
with agriculture activities includes the application of pesticides and vehicle/equipment
maintenance fuel.
In addition to the possible use of pesticides and herbicides at the Project site, reconnaissance of
the Project site, conducted as part of the Phase I ESA, identified construction debris, asbestos -
cement piping (ACM), and unlabeled, rusted drums and containers the shape and size of paint
cans, paint thinner cans, oil, kerosine, and other potentially hazardous materials on the southern
half of the Project site.
Onsite well sites were assumed to be operable during the previous operation of the vineyards,
therefore, if onsite wells are determined to be inoperable, they shall be properly capped and
abandoned prior to grading activities in the existing well sites areas. Finally, upon inspection of
the Project, the presence of asbestos -cement piping was found present within the Project site.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with hazardous materials sites,
the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
HAZ-1 Prior to grading, Limited Phase II Subsurface Investigation shall be
required. The Limited Phase II Subsurface Investigation shall be conducted
by an Environmental Professional as defined in Section 312.10 of 40 CFR
Part 312.
• Per Section 312.10, an Environmental Professional is an
environmental consultant that has an accredited education in earth
or natural science, at least five years of formal training under another
environmental professional, a professional state license, and
maintains expert knowledge in the environmental geology,
sustainability, and engineering fields.
• If chemicals exceeding regulatory thresholds are identified during
the Phase II study, the Project will develop a Soils Management
Plan. The Phase II study will be conducted pursuant to ASTM
E1903-19 industry standards.
HAZ-2 A site-specific Soils Management Plan (SMP) shall be developed by an
Environmental Professional for the Project property if chemical levels
exceeding regulatory thresholds are identified during the Limited Phase II
Subsurface Investigation. The SMP shall be implemented during excavation
and grading of the Project, and describe the protocol for managing
(potentially contaminated) soils and disposing of (potentially hazardous)
debris, as well as guidelines for handling known and/or undocumented
subsurface features if discovered.
HAZ-3 All agricultural related debris, materials, and foundations shall be removed
and hauled to an appropriate landfill prior to land disturbance in the
previous vineyard area. If significant soil staining is found at previous
storage locations, stained soil shall be excavated and disposed of in an
approved landfill.
HAZ-7 If onsite wells are determined to be inoperable, they shall be properly
capped and abandoned prior to grading activities in the existing wellsite
areas.
HAZ-8 The Project shall consult an asbestos inspection consultant for a
comprehensive asbestos survey prior to demolition of the Project site.
Vi. Finding Related to Location on a Hazardous Materials Site:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
hazardous material sites, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially
lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measures HAZ-1 through HAZ-3, HAZ-7, and HAZ-8, as recommended in the Final
EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the Development
Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Although the Project property was not listed as a hazardous materials site pursuant to Government
Code Section 65962.5, the use of hazardous materials prior agricultural operations on
approximately 220 acres of the Project could have resulted in the use of hazardous materials onsite.
Hazardous material uses potentially associated with agriculture activities includes the application
of pesticides and vehicle/equipment maintenance fuel. In addition to the possible use of pesticides
and herbicides at the Project site, construction debris, asbestos -cement piping (ACM), and
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unlabeled, rusted drums and containers the shape and size of paint cans, paint thinner cans, oil,
kerosine, and other potentially hazardous materials were discovered onsite. Therefore, Mitigation
Measure HAZ-I is recommended to ensure that residual volatile organic compounds (VOCs),
heavy metals, petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH) and/or pesticides/herbicides originating from prior
agricultural uses are appropriately handled during soil site disturbance. Additionally, if chemical
levels are identified that exceed existing acceptable standards, a Soils Management Plan (SMP)
shall be developed and implemented during excavation and grading for the Project. The SMP
would describe the protocol for managing potentially contaminated soils and disposing of
(potentially hazardous) debris, as well as guidelines for handling known and/or undocumented
subsurface features that may be encountered. This is required by Mitigation Measure HAZ-2.
Moreover, all agricultural related debris, materials, and foundations shall be removed and hauled
to an appropriate landfill prior to land disturbance in the previous vineyard area. If significant soil
staining is found at previous storage locations, stained soil shall be excavated and disposed of in
an approved landfill (Mitigation Measure HAZ-3).
Onsite well sites were assumed to be operable during the previous operation of the vineyards,
therefore, if onsite wells are determined to be inoperable, they shall be properly capped and
abandoned prior to grading activities in the existing well sites areas. The Phase I ESA recommends
obtaining a copy of all documents pertaining to the onsite private groundwater wells, if available.
Monitoring well conditions should be identified to ensure proper maintenance or abandonment
under the appropriate regulatory oversight, as well as practicing caution when developing, grading,
or excavating at the project site. This is required by Mitigation Measure HAZ-7. Finally, upon
inspection of the Project, the presence of asbestos -cement piping was found present within the
Project site. Due to limitations of inspecting the entirety of the Project site and the apparent
presence of the asbestos -containing materials (ACMs) and potential asbestos -containing materials
(PACMs), the Project shall consult an asbestos inspection consultant for a comprehensive asbestos
survey prior to demolition, construction, or remodeling of the project site. ACMs and PCMB in
good condition can remain onsite for future use, and managed safely under the regulations of a
site-specific Operations and Maintenance (O&M) Plan or hauled to an approved landfill.
Mitigation Measure HAZ-8 shall implement the asbestos inspection consultation and the
development of the O&M Plan. With the implementation of Mitigation Measures HAZ-I through
HAZ-3, HAZ-7, and HAZ-8 potential impacts of hazardous materials potentially on the Project
site would be reduced to less than significant levels.
H. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY.
i. Result in Substantial Erosion or Siltation On- or Off -Site or Impede or
Redirect Flood Flows:
The Project setting and its surroundings have been modified by various existing flood control
systems to address the offsite alluvial drainages that may affect the site. These include the
Guadalupe Creek Diversion Dike that separates the Coral Canyon development site to the north
and the subject property. Dike No. 4 provides flood protection for agricultural and urbanizing lands
to the east. Two separate systems of earthen barriers currently direct off-site flows from impacting
the onsite agricultural land and the offsite Thomas Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility,
respectively. For the agricultural land, the earthen flood protection is established along the western
and southern boundaries to divert and convey off-site flows easterly along the unimproved
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alignment of Avenue 62 and northerly along the unimproved alignment of Jefferson Street toward
Dike No. 4. For the CVWD Thomas Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility, the flood control
improvements are designed to establish a hydrologic separation between surface runoff and the
recharge ponds that receive piped inflow. This is similarly achieved by earthen berms, dikes, and
concrete channels also designed to convey off-site runoff in a northerly and easterly direction
toward the receiving Dike No. 4 flood control facilities.
As proposed, the overall on-site grading and drainage pattern of the Project will continue to
emulate existing topography. Project stormwater runoff will be intercepted at and carried along
the private street curb and gutter conveyances to multiple catch basins connected to a network of
storm drain lines sized to confluence and outlet into the respective detention/infiltration basin (A
and B). The outlet points in the basins will include rip -rap treatment as a form of energy dissipation
to slow flows and reduce erosion to facilities.
To address off-site drainage conditions that interface with and currently pass through the Project
site, the proposed improvements include a series of engineered and fortified embankments and
channels. The design of this system is identified in detail as a flood protection system in the
Drainage Master Plan, which calls for flood control barriers to direct off-site ephemeral drainage
in a northerly and easterly direction respectively as it interfaces with the western and southern
edges of the Project.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with on- or off-site erosion or
siltation or impediments to or redirection of flood flows as a result of the Project, the following
mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMR -P:
HWQ-1 The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plan shall include provisions to
monitor and remove sediment along the west bank to maintain the required
conveyance and freeboard conditions. Other aspects of the bank
maintenance shall be identified based on the final design configuration of
the systems. A Flood Control Facilities Operations and Maintenance
Manual for the proposed improvements shall be prepared and submitted to
CVWD for review and approval. The manual shall meet the requirements
of Section 5.8.9 of the Development Design Manual.
iii. Finding Regarding Substantial Erosion or Siltation On- or Off -Site or Impede
or Redirect Flood Flows:
The City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to substantial erosion or
siltation, or flood flow direction, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measure HWQ-1, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the
City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of
approval.
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Facts in Support of Finding:
The proposed Project and associated flood control improvements will result in a potential
redirection of the off-site flow path, resulting in foreseeable sediment deposition along the west
bank of the Project site. Therefore, off-site siltation impacts are potentially significant and
Mitigation Measure HWQ-1 would be implemented to monitor and maintain the west bank to the
required conveyance and freeboard conditions. With the proposed flood control improvements,
design sequence in the Project Design Features, and Mitigation Measure HWQ-1, designed to
account for runoff conveyance around the project while taking into consideration the natural
erosion and deposition process associated with the active alluvial fan, less than significant impacts
are expected pertaining to substantial erosion or siltation, on- or off-site.
In addition to the Mitigation Measure HWQ-1, the Project will also include two project design
features (PDF) relating to any Project drainage. PDF HWQ-2 requires the Project proponent to
obtain an NPDES General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and
Land Disturbance Activities (Construction General Permit) prior to any grading or final approval.
PDF HWQ-3 requires the Project proponent to implement the recommendations of the Project
Drainage Study and obtain a Conditional Letter of Map Revision prior to the issuance of a grading
permit.
iv. Result in Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones, Risk of Release from
Project Inundation:
The entire Project site is located in Zone D, a FEMA designation which applies to areas where
there are possible but undetermined or unmapped flood hazards. As currently designated, the site
is not mapped as a Special Flood Hazard Area (SFHA). In part due to the alluvial fan conditions
observed in the project setting, the project -specific Drainage Master Plan serves as the reference
document for identifying the existing drainage conditions and necessary flood control measures.
The proposed infrastructure will include adequate flood protection to address the local alluvial fan
conditions, while protecting the project site from ephemeral drainages without resulting in
hydromodifications (Draft EIR pg. 4.10-34).
V. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with on- or off-site erosion or
siltation or impediments to or redirection of flood flows as a result of the Project, the following
mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
HWQ-1 The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plan shall include provisions to
monitor and remove sediment along the west bank to maintain the required
conveyance and freeboard conditions. Other aspects of the bank
maintenance shall be identified based on the final design configuration of
the systems. A Flood Control Facilities Operations and Maintenance
Manual for the proposed improvements shall be prepared and submitted to
CVWD for review and approval. The manual shall meet the requirements
of Section 5.8.9 of the Development Design Manual.
M.
vi. Finding Regarding Flood Hazard, Tsunami, or Seiche Zones, Risk of Release
from Project Inundation:
The City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to substantial erosion or
siltation, or flood flow direction, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measure HWQ-1, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the
City and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of
approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Based on the most current Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Insurance
Rate Map (FIRM No. 06065C2900H), effective April 19, 2017, the entire project site is located in
Zone D, a FEMA designation which applies to areas where there are possible but undetermined or
unmapped flood hazards. As currently designated, the site is not mapped as a Special Flood Hazard
Area (SFHA). FEMA Zone A designations are mapped for a portion of the Guadalupe dike and
Dike No. 4 containment areas, found north and east of the Project respectively. In part due to the
alluvial fan conditions observed in the project setting, the project -specific Drainage Master Plan
serves as the reference document for identifying the existing drainage conditions and necessary
flood control measures. The proposed infrastructure will include adequate flood protection to
address the local alluvial fan conditions, while protecting the project site from ephemeral drainages
without resulting in hydromodifications. With implementation of Mitigation Measure HWQ-1,
less than significant impacts are anticipated pertaining to flood hazards.
I. NOISE.
i. Generation of a Substantial Temporary or Permanent Increase in Ambient
Noise Levels in the Vicinity of the Project:
The Project -specific Noise Study analyzed the potential impacts resulting from the short-term
construction activities associated with the development of the Project. Noise generated by the
Project construction equipment will include a combination of graders, excavators, haul trucks,
compaction equipment, power tools, concrete mixers, and portable generators that, when
combined, can reach high levels. Based on the stages of construction, the noise impacts associated
with the proposed Project are expected to create temporarily high noise levels at the nearby
receiver locations. Noise levels generated by heavy construction equipment can range from
approximately 68 dBA to 80 dBA when measured at 50 feet.
The Project property is also located adjacent to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains
(SRSJM) Conservation Area, as designated by the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat
Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP). Project -related noise may result in impacts to wildlife.
As shown in the Project -specific Noise Study, the Travertine Specific Plan Focused Noise
Assessment, dated June 17, 2024, and testimony provided to the City, the Project will result in a
less than significant permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the Project.
65
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential project specific and cumulative effects relating to noise, and to further
minimize any noise increases from on- and off-site construction -related activities, the following
mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
NOI-1 Grading and building plans shall require Project construction activities
comply with the City of La Quinta Municipal Code requirements pertaining
to construction noise.
N0I-2 During all Project site construction, 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 receivers nearest
the Project site.
N0I-3 The construction contractor shall locate equipment staging in areas that will
create the greatest distance between construction -related noise sources and
noise -sensitive receivers nearest the Project site during all Project
construction.
N0I4 The construction contractor shall limit construction haul truck deliveries to
the hours permitted by the City of La Quinta. The contractor shall also
design delivery routes to minimize the exposure of sensitive land uses or
residential dwellings to delivery truck -related noise.
N0I-5 Prior to water well drilling, the construction contractor shall provide
temporary a 24 -foot -high noise barrier capable of reducing noise during
well construction activities to 80 dBA Leq or less.
BI0-3 Where the Project is located adjacent to the SRSJM Conservation Area
along its western edge, a minimum buffer of 74 feet shall be incorporated
between SRSJM undeveloped native desert areas and private homeowner
parcels and public gathering areas. Each private homeowner parcel along
this western edge shall have fencing at the top of slope with Lexan panels
to dampen noise to an appropriate level.
BIO -31 Noise: The Project will incorporate setbacks, as specified in the Specific
Plan to minimize the effects of noise on wildlife.
iii. Finding Regarding Generation of Temporary Increase in Ambient Noise
Levels in the Vicinity of the Project:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to noise
described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have been
required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant
environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such effects will be
mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation Measures NOI-1
through NOI-5, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are
enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
To evaluate whether the Project will generate potentially significant short-term (construction)
noise levels at nearest receiver locations, a construction -related daytime noise level threshold of
80 dBA Leq was used as a reasonable threshold to assess the daytime construction noise level
impacts. When observed from the nearby off-site receiver locations, the construction noise levels
are expected to range from 28.9 to 58.7 dBA Leq, with the highest levels ranging from 40.9 to 58.7
dBA Leq. The construction noise analysis shows that the nearest off-site receiver locations will
satisfy the reasonable daytime 80 dBA Leq significance threshold during construction activities
(Draft EIR, Table 4.12-14). Although the Project will not generate significant construction noise
levels, Mitigation Measures NOI-1 through NOI-5 are set forth to minimize construction noise to
the maximum extent practicable. As provided in the DEIR Mitigation Measure NOI-5, prior to any
water well drilling, the Project will provide a noise barrier to reduce well construction noise. The
noise barrier associated with NOI-5 is specific to the water well drilling. Additionally, the City of
La Quinta established construction hours of operation to lessen the impacts of construction noise
within Municipal Code Section 6.08.050, as described in Table 4.12-2, Construction Standards.
Construction phase trip generation is anticipated to be lower than trip generation at Project
buildout, which does not result in potentially significant noise impacts. Therefore„ the construction
noise impacts will be less than significant at all off-site receiver locations.
The Project property is located adjacent to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains (SRSJM)
Conservation Area, as designated by the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation
Plan (CVMSHCP). Where the Project is located adjacent to the SRSJM Conservation Area (along
the western edge), a minimum buffer of 74 feet will be incorporated between undeveloped native
desert areas and private homeowner parcels and public gathering areas. Each private homeowner
parcel along this western edge shall have fencing at the top of slope with Lexan panels to dampen
noise to an appropriate level, which, according to the CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency Guidelines,
includes noise levels less than 75 dBA Leq hourly. Per the Lexan panel fence plan, the fencing
would include a one -foot block wall, and five feet of Lexan panel fence system with metal support
posts. This is required by Mitigation Measure BIO -3. The fencing will include concrete masonry
block and will be 6 feet in height. In addition, the Project will adhere to the City's Noise Ordinance.
The Project developer shall also adhere to the CVMSHCP Conservation Area Land Use Adjacency
Guidelines regarding noise, which requires the Project to incorporate setbacks, berms, and/or walls
as applicable to minimize the effects of noise on wildlife pursuant to applicable rules, regulations
and guidelines related to land use noise standards. This is required by Mitigation Measure BIO -31
in Section 4.4, Biological Resources, in the Draft EIR. The Project will implement Mitigation
Measures BIO -3 and BIO -31 in order to reduce the effects of noise on wildlife to less than
significant levels.
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J. PUBLIC SERVICES.
i. Result in Substantial Adverse Physical Impacts Associated with the Provision
of New or Physically Altered Governmental Facilities, Need for New or
Physically Altered Facilities, the Construction of Which Could Cause
Significant Environmental Impacts, In Order to Maintain Acceptable Service
Ratios, Response Times or Other Performance Objectives for Fire Protection:
Development and operation of the proposed Project may cause an incremental increase in demand
for emergency services. The closest fire station to the Project property is Station 70, located 4.0
miles north of the property, at 54001 Madison Street. Due to the distance to the nearest fire station
and remoteness of the Project property, RCFD indicated that the proposed Project may not be
adequately served by fire protection services within the 5 -7 -minute response time, resulting in
potentially significant impact to fire service performance objectives until the proposed Project
circulation network is completed.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid resulting in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with fire services and
response times, the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented
consistent with the MMRP:
PS -1: Travertine Fire Master Plan (FMP) was developed to analyze emergency
access to the Project and determine and implement strategies at the Project
site to improve RCFD and CAL Fire operations and service delivery. The
FMP was required to be prepared to address adequate fire protection for the
area and mitigate potentially unacceptable response times in the interior of
the Project. The FMP further states that conformance to the full circulation
plan is required for any additional development beyond Phase 1 of the
Project. The later phases of development would include the improvement
of Jefferson Street, which would provide emergency access to the Project.
Full buildout of the Project is evaluated in this Draft EIR.
The Project applicant shall implement the safety measures established in the
Travertine Fire Master Plan which include the following:
• approved emergency access points;
• roadway design standards for fire protection vehicles;
• minimum water quantity and pressure necessary for firefighting;
All developer plans showing fire system connections shall provide
information on the type of fire system that is being installed for the
development (e.g., wet -pipe fire sprinkler systems, deluge fire sprinkler
systems and dry pipe and precaution fire systems).
A fire flow of 2,375 gallons per minute for 2 -hour duration at 20 psi shall
be required at the Project in accordance with Appendix B of the California
Fire Code. For residential areas, approved standard fire hydrants, located at
each intersection, with no portion of any lot frontage more than a maximum
of 500 feet from the hydrant shall be provided. Minimum fire flow for all
residential structures shall be 875 gallons per minute for a 1 -hour duration
at 20 psi operating pressure. Fire hydrant spacing shall be in accordance
with Appendix C of the California Fire Code. Both requirements must be
available prior to placing any combustible materials on the job site.
The fire system plans shall be submitted to CVWD to review the complexity
and type of proposed fire system.
PS -2: Adequate fire protection for the area will be ensured through the following
enhanced mitigation measures.
• Fire Flows and Hydrants:
o Consistent with calculation procedure set forth in Appendix
B of the California Fire Code, the project is required to
ensure a fire flow of 2,375 gallons per minute for 2 -hour
duration at 20 -psi.
o For residential areas, an approved standard fire hydrant,
located at each intersection, with no portion of any lot
frontage more than a maximum of 500 -feet from a hydrant
shall be provided.
o Minimum fire flow for all residential structures shall be 875
gallons per minute for a 1 -hour duration at 20 -psi operating
pressure.
o Fire hydrant spacing shall be in accordance with Appendix
C of the current edition of the California Fire Code.
o Conforming fire hydrants and flows must be available prior
to placing any combustible materials on the job site.
• 5A Level Construction Standards: Many buildings will require or
benefit from utilizing more than one construction type, which is
determined by factors such as code or durability requirements,
architectural design, and construction costs. In these cases,
portion(s) of the building are separated by construction type with a
fire rated wall or horizontal (floor) assembly, allowing each area to
be treated as a separate building for meeting building code
requirements. For Phase 1, all construction standards are subject to
5A, Type V-A, level building standards. Type V-A refers to uses of
protected Wood Frames, commonly used in the construction of
newer apartment buildings; there is no exposed wood visible and
non-combustible materials are generally used. Non-combustible
materials generally include concrete, masonry, and steel building
elements while combustible material typically refers to wood
framed building elements that do not meet heavy timber
requirements. Type A is preferred because it is construction that
uses protected — structural members which have additional fire
rating coating or cover by means of spray -on, sheetrock, or other
approved method that increases the fire resistance rating by at least
1 -hour; whereas, Type B is Unprotected — Structural members
which have no additional coating or cover.
• Emergency Standby Power Facilities for Booster Pumps: The
project site will provide adequate space for a diesel fueled standby
generator in a recessed concrete structure, to be located at both
booster pump locations. The generators shall be sized to operate at
connected load (full site load) of the designed station. The
installation and testing of this equipment will be performed by
CVWD.
• Fire Systems/Backflow Requirements: All developer plans showing
fire system connections shall provide information on the type of fire
system that is being installed for the development (e.g. wet -pipe fire
sprinkler systems, deluge fire sprinkler systems and dry pipe and
pre -action fire systems). The developer's engineer shall fill out and
check the appropriate fire system box on the CVWD Plan Check
checklist for domestic water. Upon request for additional
information on the fire system, the fire system plans shall be
submitted to CVWD to review the complexity and type of proposed
fire system so the degree of hazard can be assessed. Because a fire
system design can vary, the level of backflow protection will be
based on the type of potential cross -connection and the degree of
hazard. The three types of backflow protection that will be
considered are: (1) Single (lead free) Detector Check, below ground
installation; (2) Double Check Detector Assembly (DCDA), above
ground installation; and (3) Reduced Pressure Detector Assembly
(RPDA), above ground installation.
• Optic -con Sensors at Project Development Gates: The project will
provide Opti -con sensors that are strategically located so gates are
open when the engines arrive. Precise locations will be determined
at the Final Map stage of development. See Exhibit 3.1 Mitigation
Diagram for conceptual locations.
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• Community Emergency Response Team (FEMA) Programs:
Community Emergency Response Team (FEMA) Programs
providing the community with regular training, coordination and
communication. The "Travertine CERT" program will develop and
maintain a roster of residents/staff that will collectively and
individually support and assist during an emergency event or major
disaster.
• HOA/Community Training for CPR and AED Training: CPR and
AED Training will be coordinated and provided by the
HOTA/Community for staff and residents to provide an increased
population of informed bystanders that are able to assess and initiate
life saving measures while emergency responders are en route. This
extends the preservation of life at critical times during a health
emergency.
• AED Devices: AED devices will be made available at public
accessible locations within the community.
• Additional Community Risk Reduction programs: The
HOA/Community shall provide risk reduction programs, including
but not limited to Youth Drowning Prevention.
iii. Finding Regarding Substantial Adverse Physical Impacts Associated With the
Provision of New or Physically Altered Governmental Facilities, the
Construction of Which Could Cause Significant Environmental Impacts in
Order to Maintain Acceptable Response Times for Fire Protection:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to fire
service, described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or alterations have
been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measures PS -1 and PS -2, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City
and are enforceable through the Development Agreement, MMRP and Project conditions of
approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project property is served by the Riverside County Fire Department (RCFD) under contract
with CalFire. Within the City, there are three City -owned fire stations which include Fire Station
32, Station 70, and Station 93. Fire Station 70 is the closest station to the Project property, located
approximately 4 miles north, and is equipped with a primary engine, a brush fire engine, and a
volunteer squad (see pages 4.14-1 and 4.14-12, as well as Section 4.19, Wildfires). Development
and operation of the proposed Project may cause an incremental increase in demand for emergency
services. Due to the distance to the nearest fire station and remoteness of the Project property,
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RCFD indicated that the proposed Project may not be adequately served by fire protection services
within the 5 -7 -minute response time, resulting in potentially significant impact to fire service
performance objectives until the proposed Project circulation network is completed. Therefore, a
Project -specific Fire Master Plan (IMP) was developed to analyze emergency access to the Project
property and determine and implement strategies at the Project property to improve RCFD and
CAL Fire operations and service delivery before Jefferson Street improvements are completed
(Mitigation Measure PS -1). The FMP ensures adequate access to the interior of the Project
property by providing Fire Department approved emergency access points, roadway design
standards for fire protection vehicles, minimum water quantity and pressure necessary for
firefighting, building construction standards, emergency power facilities for the proposed booster
stations and an area of refuge. The Plan further states that conformance to the full circulation plan
is required for any additional development beyond Phase 1 of the Project. The later phases of
development would include the improvement of Jefferson Street, which would provide an
additional access to the Project property. See Mitigation Measure PS -1.
Enhanced Fire Service Measures (Mitigation Measure PS -2) will address building construction
standards, emergency power facilities for the proposed booster stations, an area of refuge, optic -
con sensors located to open gates ahead of fire engine arrival, implementation of a community
emergency response team (CEMA) programs; and HOA/community training for CPR and AED
and risk reduction programs.
The County Fire Department has preliminary plans for a future fire station to serve the southern
portion of the City. A potential fire station site has been identified at the northeast corner of Monroe
Street and Avenue 60. The response time from this potential location to the Project property is
approximately 6 minutes. The Travertine Project will be required to provide the fair share portion
of development fees for fire station funding consistent with the City's adopted Mitigation Fee Act
nexus study and capital improvement plan. The new fire station will be necessary to meet planned
and anticipated development whether or not the Project is approved. With implementation of
Mitigation Measures PS -1 and PS -2, Project impacts to fire service will be less than significant.
The Project would be required to implement all applicable fire safety requirements, to include the
installation of fire hydrants, and sprinkler systems. Moreover, the Project would be required to pay
Development Impact Fees (DIF) in place at the time of construction. The current per unit DIF for
detached single-family residential is $9,380. Payment of these fees goes towards the funding of
public facilities including but not limited to fire stations, park and recreation facilities, major
thoroughfares and bridges and traffic signalization, public safety facilities and other public
buildings.
K. TRANSPORTATION.
i. Consistency with an Applicable Plan or Policy Addressing the Circulation
System:
The proposed Project would add traffic to area roadways that could result in significant changes
in the level of service at area intersections and thus potentially conflict with a program plan,
ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, which is considered a potentially significant
adverse effect.
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ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential project specific and cumulative effects relating to traffic and transportation,
the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
TRA -1 Project mitigation may include a combination of a fair share of fee payments
to the affected jurisdiction, construction of specific improvements and
reimbursement to the Project proponent to account for proponent fair share
of improvement, or a combination of these approaches. The Summary of
2040 Intersection Improvements is provided in Table 4.16-26 of the DEIR,
pages 4.16-56, 57 & 58) and are identified below:
Phase 1 Improvements: Improvements to Avenue 62 and Emergency Vehicle Access
(EVA) Road and project access points, and the project's fair share contributions toward
planned traffic signals and related improvements at 23 area intersections as identified in
Table 4.16-26 (see pages 4.16-56 — 4.16-58 of Draft EIR).
Phase 2 Improvements: Improvements to Jefferson Street and project access points.
iii. Finding Regarding Consistency with Applicable Plan or Policy Addressing
Circulation System:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to traffic
and transportation described above and further discussed in the Final EIR, changes or alterations
have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measure TRA -1 and construction of the conditioned traffic improvements described above, as
recommended in the Final EIR, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through
the Development Agreement, MMRP, and Project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Project Operations: Traffic related to Project activities (both construction and operational) were
analyzed in the Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) and Vehicles Miles Traveled (VMT) Evaluation
(Draft EIR, Appendices L.1 and L.2). The TIA was prepared in accordance with the City of La
Quinta's Traffic Study Guidelines (Engineering Bulletin #06-13, dated July 23, 2015) and
Engineering Bulletin #10-01, dated August 9, 2010, the City General Plan, and a traffic study
scope reviewed and approved by City staff during the scoping process.
At project buildout, the proposed Project would be anticipated to generate a net total of 11,321
external trip -ends per day on a typical weekday with 812 external vehicles per hour (VPH) during
the weekday AM peak hour and 1,057 external VPH during the weekday PM peak hour. Under
build out conditions, thirteen study area intersections will be impacted without the development of
the Project (DEIR Table 4.16-15, p. 4.16-26, and 27). The addition of the Project would result in
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a total of fifteen impacted intersections under build out conditions. Project and Capital
Improvement Program (CIP) improvements will result in acceptable LOS for all intersections.
Mitigation Measure TRA -1 requires payment of the City's DIF, which funds the traffic
improvements in the CIP program, which will result in less than significant impacts at all area
intersections. In addition, all study roadway segments analyzed are anticipated to operate at
acceptable volume -to -capacity ratio of 0.90 or less at buildout.
The County Congestion Management Plan (CMP) requires a LOS E or better for regional
roadways. 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 would 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. Following the payment of required fees such as TUMF
and DIF, as required under Mitigation Measure TRA -1, less than significant impacts are
anticipated relative to the CMP.
iv. Substantially Increase Hazards Due to Geometric Design Features or
Incompatible Uses:
Temporary impacts may occur during the construction of infrastructure improvements serving the
Project, including offsite roadway and infrastructure, which includes five CVWD wells and an IID
substation. Construction of these infrastructure improvements would cause short-term impacts
related to noise, dust, and traffic flows as a result of temporary lane closures, if required. To
minimize potential temporary traffic flow impacts during construction, a detailed construction
traffic management plan(s) shall be prepared and submitted to the City of La Quinta. Mitigation
Measure TRA -2 would substantially reduce the temporary short-term construction related traffic
impacts to a level of less than significant.
V. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential effects relating to traffic hazards, the following mitigation measure is hereby
adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
TRA -2 The Project proponent shall ensure that Construction Traffic Control Plans
are reviewed and approved by the City prior to project construction. These
plans are to be implemented during construction activities. Construction
includes onsite and offsite improvements.
Prior to obtaining a grading permit, the applicant shall prepare and submit
the City of La Quinta for review and approval detailed construction traffic
management plans, including street closure information, detour plans, haul
routes, and staging plans as necessary for any off-site work that would
encroach on public right-of-way. The construction traffic management
plans shall include the following elements, as appropriate:
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• Provisions for temporary traffic control during all construction
activities adjacent to public right-of-way to improve traffic flow on
public roadways (e.g., flag person);
• Construction -related vehicles shall not park on surrounding public
streets;
• Provision of safety precautions for pedestrians and bicyclists
through such measures as alternate routing and protection barriers;
• Schedule construction -related deliveries to reduce travel during
peak travel periods;
• Obtain the required permits for truck haul routes from the County of
Riverside, the City of Rancho Mirage, the City of Palm Desert, and
Cathedral City prior to the issuance of any permit for the Project; and
• Obtain a Caltrans transportation permit for use of oversized
transport vehicles on Caltrans facilities.
• Outline adequate measures to ensure emergency vehicle access
during all aspects of the Project's construction, including, but not
limited to, the use of flagmen during partial closures to streets
surrounding the Project site to facilitate the traffic flow until
construction is complete.
• Include the implementation of security measures during
construction in areas that are accessible to the general public to help
reduce any increased demand on law enforcement services,
including fencing construction areas, providing security lighting,
and providing security personnel to patrol construction sites.
Vi. Finding Regarding Hazards Due to Geometric Design Features or
Incompatible Uses:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to traffic
and transportation hazards described above and further discussed in the Final EIR, changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially
lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measures TRA -2, as recommended in the Final EIR, which has been adopted by the
City and is enforceable through the Development Agreement, Specific Plan, MMRP, and project
conditions of approval.
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Facts in Support of Finding:
As provided in Mitigation Measure TRA -2, Traffic Control Plans will be implemented during
construction activities. These plans will reduce potential impacts that may arise due to conflicts
with construction traffic, consistent with City standards.
Accordingly, the Project is not anticipated to increase hazards due to geometric design features or
incompatible uses. Following implementation of the mitigation measure, as well as the City
review and approval process for all improvement plans, impacts will be less than significant.
Vii. Emergency Access:
The Project property is located in a relatively isolated area surrounded on the west and south by
undeveloped native desert within and adjacent to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains
Conservation Area; on the east by agricultural land and residential communities, and on the north
and northeast by Coral Mountain, and the CVWD groundwater recharge facilities and Dike No. 4
impoundment area. There is currently no access to the Project property except from an unpaved
road from the north which approximates the future alignment of Jefferson Street south of Avenue
58. On the east, Avenue 62 stops at the toe of Dike No. 4 with CVWD gates that restrict access
onto Dike 4. Future access would be provided by the permanent extension of Jefferson Street south
of Avenue 58, from the extension of Avenue 62 across the dike and the extension of Madison
Street south of Avenue 60 and over Dike 4.
Design standards for the main road through the Project site that will be created by the extension of
Jefferson Street and Avenue 62 are included in the Project as design features. Mitigation Measure
TIA-1 provides offsite roadway improvement requirements. Additionally, all roadway design shall
be reviewed and approved by the City and Fire Department. With implementation of mitigation
measures, standard conditions, and design features, including roadway design review and
approval, impacts associated with the emergency access would be reduced to a less than significant
impact.
A Fire Master Plan for the Travertine Specific Plan Project property was established to provide in
depth information to aid in determining the level of service proposed for the property during
construction and operation of the Project. Emergency response plans and evacuation plans during
Project development were established in the Project's Fire Master Plan. For additional discussion
of the Fire Master Plan, see Section 4.19, Wildfires, of the DEIR.
viii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential project effects relating to emergency access, the following mitigation
measure is hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
TRA -1 Project mitigation may include a combination of a fair share of fee payments
to the affected jurisdiction, construction of specific improvements and
reimbursement to the Project proponent to account for proponent fair share
of improvement, or a combination of these approaches.
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ix. Finding Regarding Emergency Access:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to
emergency access described above and further discussed in the Final EIR, changes or alterations
have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such
significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that all such
effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation
Measure TRA -1, as recommended in the Final EIR, which has been adopted by the City and is
enforceable through the Development Agreement, Specific Plan, MMRP, and project conditions
of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Improvements to access roads to the site and the internal circulation system would provide
adequate fire department access. Final layout and site access design shall be reviewed and
approved by the City Traffic Engineer as well as the Fire Department to ensure compliance with
their established standards. A combination of construction of specific improvements or a fair share
of fee payments to the affected jurisdiction (Mitigation Measure TRA -1) will reduce impacts that
may arise associated with emergency access. Therefore, the Project, is not anticipated to result in
inadequate emergency access, and with mitigation, impacts will be less than significant.
L. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES.
i. Impacts to Significant Tribal Cultural Resources:
The 2021 Cultural Report identified 37 previously recorded resources and nine new resources
within the Project area of potential effects (APE). Of the 37 previously recorded resources, ten
historical or archaeological resources within the Project APE were recommended eligible for
listing in the NRHP or CRHR. They include Sites P-33-001331, P-33-003872, P-33-003873, P-
33-003874, P-33-005323, P-33-014844, P-33-014845, P-33-014846, and P-33-014847; and P-33-
014988. The nine new resources recorded by SWCA during the 2019-2020 efforts included six
sites and three isolates. Specifically, the resources consist of two prehistoric isolates, each
consisting of two ceramic sherds; one historic isolate consisting of four crushed pull -tab cans; three
historic -era refuse scatters; and three prehistoric archaeological sites. None of the newly identified
resources were recommended eligible for the NRHP or CRHR.
Of the recommended eligible resources, SWCA determined that Site P-33-014988, which included
prehistoric milling slicks, is individually eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic
Places (NRHP) or California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR). The remaining nine
resources appear associated with one another and consist of prehistoric milling slicks, ceramic
scatter, bedrock milling station and a habitation site, and are recommended eligible as contributors
to the Martinez Mountain Rockslide District (MMRD). Although not specifically identified as a
Tribal Cultural Resource, the MMRD has a temporal affiliation to the Late Prehistoric period that
is significant for the prehistory and to the contemporary tribal communities of the region. Based
on its association with the Late Prehistoric period, the MMRD is recommended eligible for listing
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to the NRHP Criterion A and CRHR Criterion 1, as well as NRHP Criterion D and CRHR Criterion
4 because it could yield data that are relevant to the prehistory of the region.
Based on the Project site investigations conducted between 2006 and 2021, inclusive, SWCA
determined that the proposed Project avoids impacts to significant archaeological sites located
within the APE. Specifically, the Project boundary avoids disturbances to all historic properties
and historic and archaeological resources in and near the APE. A planned open space land use area
has been established in the southern portion of the site to buffer identified MMRD resources. This
area is currently designated for Open Space Natural uses (Planning Area 20) and will not be
developed. The area of direct impacts (ADI), which includes all areas proposed effected by Project
construction within the broader APE, completely avoids all resources that are eligible either
individually or as contributors to the MMRD. These resources are now located within designated
open space natural areas, which allows for their long-term protection and conservation.
The City of La Quinta initiated an updated AB 52 consultation period in 2020. The City sent a
letter to Native American Tribes suggested by the NAHC on March 3, 2020. The City did not
receive comments from the Tribes during the 30 -day comment period. Although responses were
not received, the Applicant requested a meeting with the ACBCI to discuss the Tribe's past
participation. Meetings were held on July 21, 30, and August 13, 2020 with the ACBCI to discuss
the Project and necessary mitigation measures. On August 11, 2020, the Torres Martinez Desert
Cahuilla Indians (TMDCI) called the City to inquire about projects within the City. The City
notified the TMDCI of the Travertine Project and emailed them the cultural studies. TMDCI
attended the meeting with the City and the ACBCI on September 3, 2020. Table 4.17-1 in the Draft
EIR, outlines the various meetings held by the City with the ACBCI and the TMDCI.
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To mitigate potential project specific and cumulative effects relating to Tribal Cultural Resources,
the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
CR -1 Prior to any ground -disturbing activities, the Project applicant shall retain a
qualified archaeologist, defined as an archaeologist that meets the Secretary
of Interior's Standards for professional archaeology, to carry out all
mitigation measures related to cultural resources. Tribal monitoring of site
disturbance will also be accommodated.
CR -2 The Project applicant shall assign a compliance officer for the Project to
ensure mitigation measures are in place and followed for the duration of
Project construction. The compliance officer should prepare a monthly
compliance report for distribution to the City, BOR, BLM, and interested
Native American groups. The compliance officer may be the same person
as the Project archaeologist or may be another qualified individual
designated by the Project applicant.
CR -3 Prior to the commencement of ground disturbance, a Tribal Cultural
Resources Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (Monitoring Plan) shall be
prepared. The Monitoring Plan shall include, but not be limited to:
principles and procedures for the identification of cultural resources
monitoring protocols consistent with CR -1, CR -2, and CR -7 for ground -
disturbing activities, a worker training program consistent with CR -6, and
discovery and processing protocols for inadvertent discoveries of cultural
resources consistent with CR -7 and CR -8. The plan shall detail protocols
for determining circumstances in which additional or reduced levels of
monitoring (e.g., spot checking) may be appropriate. Fencing with a buffer
shall be placed around resources to be avoided. The Monitoring Plan shall
also establish a protocol for communicating with the lead agencies and
interested Native American parties.
CR -4 Prior to ground -disturbing activities in any areas outside the APE described
in the Project EIR, Exhibit 4.5-1, including but not limited to locations
proposed for an off-site utility area, a supplemental study including an
updated records search at the EIC, updated Sacred Lands File search, and
pedestrian survey, shall be conducted. If resources are identified and cannot
be avoided, they shall be assessed for their eligibility for the NRHP and
CRHR. Avoidance and minimization measures identified as a result of the
study shall be incorporated into the Monitoring Plan.
CR -5 In the event of unanticipated discovery of NRNP- and CRHR-eligible
resources within the APE or the off-site utility field, where operationally
feasible, such resources shall be protected from direct Project impacts by
Project redesign (i.e., relocation of the ground disturbance, ancillary
facilities, or temporary facilities or work areas). Avoidance mechanisms
shall include temporary fencing and designation of such areas as
environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs) for the duration of the proposed
Project. ESAs shall include the boundary of each historic property plus a
30-m (98 -foot) buffer around the resource.
CR -6 Prior to the commencement of ground -disturbing activities, typically at the
Project kick-off, the qualified archaeologist or their designee will provide
cultural sensitivity training to construction crews. The training will provide
information on signs of potential cultural resources, regulatory
requirements for the protection of cultural resources and the proper
procedures to follow should unanticipated cultural resources discoveries be
made during construction. Workers will be provided contact information
and protocols to follow if inadvertent discoveries are made. Workers will
be shown examples of the types of Tribal cultural resources that might be
encountered and that would require notification of the Project archaeologist.
The Project archaeologist shall create a training video, PowerPoint
presentation, or printed literature that can be shown to new workers and
contractors to avoid continuous training throughout the life of the Project.
CR -7 Prior to ground disturbance, an archaeological monitor, working under the
supervision of the qualified archaeologist, and Native American monitors
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from the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the Torres Martinez
Desert Cahuilla Indians, shall be retained to monitor ground -disturbing
activities. Monitoring will take place within or near ESAs or in other areas
agreed upon by the archaeologist, City, and Native American monitor, and
as identified in the Monitoring Plan. Monitoring activities will include
examining the excavation of native soils as well as the disposal of spoils in
certain areas. The duration, timing and location of the monitoring shall be
determined by the City in consultation with the qualified archaeologist and
Native American monitors as outlined in the Monitoring Plan. Should
buried cultural deposits be encountered, the Monitor may request that
destructive construction halt 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. Additionally, fencing with a buffer shall
be required around resources to be avoided.
CR -8 In the event that cultural resources are exposed during excavation, work in
the immediate vicinity of the find must stop until a qualified archaeologist
can evaluate the significance of the find. Ground -disturbing activities may
continue in other areas. For discoveries located outside of BLM land, if the
City determines, in consideration of the subsequent analysis by the qualified
archaeologist, that the resource is a protected resource under CEQA
(Section 15064.5f; PRC 21082) additional work such as testing or data
recovery may be warranted prior to resumption of ground -disturbing
activity in the location of discovery. For discoveries located on BLM-land,
if the BLM determines, in consideration of the subsequent analysis of the
qualified archaeologist, that the resource is protected under Section 106 of
the NHPA, additional work such as testing or data recovery may be
warranted prior to resumption of ground -disturbing activity in the location
of discovery. Should any Tribal cultural resources be encountered,
additional consultation with California Native American Heritage
Commission (NAHC)—listed Tribal groups should be conducted in
coordination with the City and/or with the BLM and BOR if the discovery
occurs on federal lands.
CR -9 If human remains are encountered, pursuant to State of California Health
and Safety Code Section 7050.5, no further disturbance shall occur until the
Riverside County Coroner has made a determination of origin and
disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98. The Riverside County
Coroner must be notified of the find immediately. Additional procedures
for responding to the unanticipated discovery of human remains are outlined
below.
Modern Remains
If the Coroner's Office determines the remains are of modern origin, the
appropriate law enforcement officials will be called by the Coroner and
conduct the required procedures. Work will not resume until law
enforcement has released the area.
Archaeological Remains
If the remains are determined to be archaeological in origin, the appropriate
protocol is determined by whether the discovery site is located on federally
or non -federally owned or managed lands.
Remains Discovered on Federally Owned or Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined that the remains are archaeological or
historic in age, the appropriate BLM Palm Springs Field Office or BOR
archaeologist must be called. The archaeologist will initiate the proper
procedures under the Archaeological Resources Protection Act and the
Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act (NAGPRA). If
the remains can be determined to be Native American, the steps as outlined
in NAGPRA, 43 Code of Federal Regulations [CFR] 10.6 Inadvertent
discoveries, must be followed.
Resumption of Activity: The activity that resulted in the discovery of human
remains on federal lands may resume after a written, binding agreement is
executed between the BLM or BOR and federally recognized affiliated
Indian Tribe(s) that adopts a recovery plan for the excavation or removal of
the human remains, funerary objects, sacred objects, or objects of cultural
patrimony following 43 CFR Section 10.3(b)(1) of these regulations. The
disposition of all human remains and NAGPRA items shall be carried out
following 43 CFR 10.6.
Remains Discovered on Non -Federally Owned/Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined the remains on non -federally owned or
managed lands are archaeological, the Coroner will make recommendations
concerning the treatment and disposition of the remains to the person
responsible for the excavation or discovery, or to his or her authorized
representative. If the Coroner believes the remains to be those of a Native
American, he/she shall contact the California NAHC by telephone within
24 hours. The NAHC will notify the person it believes to be the most likely
descendant (MLD) of the remains. The MLD has 48 hours after accessing
the site of the discovery to make recommendations to the landowner for
treatment or disposition of the human remains. If the MLD does not make
recommendations within 48 hours, the landowner shall reinter the remains
in an area of the property secure from further disturbance. If the landowner
does not accept the descendant's recommendations, the owner or the
descendent may request mediation by the NAHC.
iii. Finding Regarding Impacts to Tribal Cultural Resources:
Pursuant to Section 21081(a)(1) of the Public Resources Code and Section 15091(a)(1) of the State
CEQA Guidelines, the City Council finds that, for each of the significant effects relating to Tribal
Cultural Resources described above and further discussed in the Draft/Final EIR, changes or
alterations have been required in, or incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially
lessen such significant environmental effects as identified in the Final EIR, and further finds that
all such effects will be mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of
Mitigation Measures CR -1 through CR -9, as recommended in the Final EIR, which have been
adopted by the City and are enforceable through the MMRP, Development Agreement, and Project
conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
As stated above, SWCA's investigations in 2006 and 2021 determined that the proposed Project
avoids impacts to significant archaeological sites located within the APE. Specifically, the Project
boundary avoids disturbances to all historic properties and historic and archaeological resources
in and near the APE. A planned open space land use area has been established in the southern
portion of the site to buffer identified MMRD resources. This area is currently designated for Open
Space Natural uses (Planning Area 20) and will not be developed. The area of direct impacts (ADI),
which includes all areas proposed effected by Project construction within the broader APE,
completely avoids all resources that are eligible either individually or as contributors to the
MMRD. These resources are now located within designated open space natural areas, which allows
for their long-term protection and conservation.
Although the Project will avoid impacts to cultural resources, the Project applicant shall be
required to prepare a monitoring and mitigation program plan to implement strategies for avoiding
impacts to Tribal cultural resources, provide cultural sensitivity training to construction crew, and
retain a qualified archaeologist and/or a compliance officer to implement the mitigation measures
and training, and an archaeological monitor during certain ground -disturbing activities, as well as
implement avoidance mechanisms for environmentally sensitive areas. This is required by
Mitigation Measure CR -1 through CR -3, and CR -5 through CR -7. Mitigation Measure CR -8
requires that if cultural resources are exposed during excavations, work in the immediate vicinity
of the find must stop until a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the significance of the find.
To ensure avoidance of previously identified and any unidentified cultural resources occurring in
the utility field, a records search at the Eastern Information Center (EIC), an updated Sacred Lands
File search, and a pedestrian survey of prospective well and substation sites shall be conducted to
confirm the presence or absence of potentially sensitive cultural resources shall be required.
Additionally, continued outreach to local Tribes and Tribal involvement in site monitoring shall
be required. Development should be avoided in areas identified in the Cultural Report, and within
the western halves of Section 35 and 26 of township 6 south, Range 7 East. This is required by
Mitigation Measures CR -4, CR -7, and CR -8.
With the implementation of Mitigation Measures CR -1 through CR -8 the proposed Project's
impact to Tribal cultural resource to be listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of
Historical Resources or in a Local Register of Historical Resources is reduced to less than
significant levels. Moreover, the proposed distribution lines connecting the substation to other
facilities and to the Project would occur within existing rights-of-way, which have already been
disturbed. Therefore, the undergrounding of the distribution lines would not result in significant
impacts to Tribal cultural resources.
During tribal consultation, the City met with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI)
and the TMDCI. The TMDCI provided feedback on resource protection measures in a meeting
between the Project applicant, the City, and SWCA on September 22, 2020. This included a request
for monitors to be present for both excavation and for observing areas where the excavated soils
will be used as fill to ensure that no artifacts are inadvertently transferred to new portions of the
Project area. The TMDCI indicated that excavations over 10 feet deep would not need to be
monitored and that the two interested Tribes could work together to provide monitors as needed
(i.e., one monitor could represent both Tribes). However, after the meeting on September 28, 2020
the TMDCI did not provide a written letter with recommendations, as requested by the City.
Communication from the Tribe stopped although the City made multiple attempts to follow-up
with the TMDCI. In a letter dated September 28, 2020, the ACBCI thanked the City in their efforts
to include the THPO and stated that the concerns of the Tribe THPO were addressed and proper
mitigation measures have been proposed to ensure the protection of Tribal cultural resources. The
letter concluded the AB 52 consultation efforts. However, the THPO requested the following:
• An Avoidance Mitigation Plan developed in consultation with the Tribes. This plan
shall address process and procedures for avoiding and mitigating impacts to cultural
resources and historic properties;
• The City require fencing with a buffer placed around resources to be avoided;
• The City assign a Compliance Officer to ensure mitigation measures are in place and
followed during the duration of the Project with a monthly report on compliance; and
• The City require Cultural Sensitivity Training for all construction crew members.
Although no Tribal cultural resources were identified within the development portion of the Project
property during AB 52 consultation, Mitigation Measure CR -7 requires that the Project applicant
hire an approved Native American Monitor during certain ground disturbing activities. The Project
site would be initially subject to grubbing and grading, in which the Project applicant would be
responsible for hiring a Native American Monitor during grading activities to depths of 10 feet.
The Project applicant shall also be required to retain a qualified archaeologist (Mitigation Measure
CR -1). The archaeologist shall provide cultural sensitivity training (Mitigation Measure CR -6) and
prepare a Tribal Cultural Resources Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (Mitigation Measure CR -3).
Additionally, prior to ground disturbance, an archaeological monitor, working under the
supervision of the qualified archaeologist, and Native American monitors from the Agua Caliente
Band of Cahuilla Indians and/or the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, shall be retained to
monitor certain ground -disturbing activities (Mitigation Measure CR -7). If Tribal cultural
resources are encountered, additional consultation with California Native American Heritage
Commission (NAHC)-listed Tribal groups should be conducted immediately (Mitigation Measure
CR -8). A compliance officer shall also be retained to ensure mitigation measures are in place and
followed for the duration of the Project (Mitigation Measure CR -2). With the implementation of
Mitigation Measures CR -1, CR -2, CR -3, CR -6, CR -7, and CR -8, impacts will be reduced to less
than significant.
M. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.
i. Require or Result in Construction of New or Expanded Facilities for Water,
Wastewater, Drainage or Utilities, the Construction of Which May Cause
Significant Environmental Effects:
Storm Water Facilities: The Project property's current hydrologic setting is defined by the eastern
slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains, and the various associated canyon drainages (Devil Canyon
and unnamed smaller drainages) west of the Project property; the Guadalupe Channel and the
Coral Mountain formation north of the Project property; and the BOR Dike No. 4 Levee and
associated stormwater impound (i.e., Thomas Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility) to the
east. These natural and manmade features allow water to flow from the mountains and canyons
easterly along distributary flow paths and active alluvial fan conveyances to the engineered
retention area on the west side of Dike No. 4. The Guadalupe Creek Diversion Dikes, located off-
site on the northern end of the Project property, are also designed to convey flows to Dike No. 4.
The CVWD groundwater percolation ponds are presently protected from off-site drainage by a
combination of earthen berms, rock lining, and concrete channelization.
In order to determine the existing drainage environment and design the flood control system for
the proposed Project, a Project -specific Drainage Master Plan (DMP) was prepared by Q3
Consulting (March 2023) (Draft EIR Appendix J.3). The DMP outlines a detailed watershed
assessment, including regional and local hydrology, flood hazard analysis, hydraulics and
sedimentation for the Project site.
The overall on-site grading and drainage pattern of the Project will continue to emulate existing
topography. Project stormwater runoff will be intercepted at and carried along the private street
curb and gutter conveyances to multiple catch basins connected to a network of storm drain lines
sized to confluence and outlet into the respective detention/infiltration basin (A and B). The outlet
points in the basins will include rip -rap treatment as a form of energy dissipation to slow flows
and reduce erosion to facilities.
To address off-site drainage conditions that interface with and currently pass through the Project
site, the proposed improvements include a series of engineered and fortified embankments and
channels. The design of this system is identified in detail as a flood protection system in the DMP,
which calls for flood control barriers to direct off-site ephemeral drainage in a northerly and
easterly direction respectively as it interfaces with the western and southern edges of the Project.
Electrical Facilities: The project site is located within the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) service
area for electric service. Existing distribution power poles are located on Avenue 62 and extend
approximately 0.64 miles onto the Project property. The power poles continue along Avenue 62
to the Monroe intersection where the above -ground poles extend one -mile north to the Avenue 60
intersection. It is likely that these distribution power poles were installed with operation of the
vineyard. The distribution poles onsite are along the unpaved Avenue 62 alignment and will be
undergrounded during development of the Avenue 62 extension onto the Project property. In order
to obtain electricity service from IID, it is anticipated that the Project will be required to contribute
to the construction of an off-site substation which will serve the substation's regional limits and
the Project (Draft EIR, pg. 4.18-20).
ii. Mitigation Measures:
To avoid or substantially reduce potential adverse effects associated with on- or off-site erosion or
siltation or impediments to or redirection of flood flows as a result of the Project, the following
mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the MMRP:
HWQ-1 The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plan shall include provisions to
monitor and remove sediment along the west bank to maintain the required
conveyance and freeboard conditions. Other aspects of the bank
maintenance shall be identified based on the final design configuration of
the systems. A Flood Control Facilities Operations and Maintenance
Manual for the proposed improvements shall be prepared and submitted to
CVWD for review and approval. The manual shall meet the requirements
of Section 5.8.9 of the Development Design Manual.
To mitigate potential impacts concerning impacts to the visual character of the offsite substation,
the following mitigation measures are hereby adopted and will be implemented consistent with the
MMRP:
AES -1 In order to reduce the proposed substation's impact on the existing visual
character and reduce the potential degradation of scenic quality of the
surrounding area, the Project applicant shall use one or more of the
following or comparable techniques: perimeter barriers, landscaping
appropriate for the substation facility. Additionally, glare shall be controlled
through the use of non -reflective surfaces, dulling finishes to help blend the
structures with the surroundings and reduce glare and color contrast, or
comparable methods subject to the approval of IID.
iii. Finding Related to Impacts of New Drainage and Electrical Utility
Infrastructure:
The City Council finds that, for the potentially significant effects of utility infrastructure, further
discussed in the Draft/Final EIR and herein, changes or alterations have been required in, or
incorporated into, the Project which avoid or substantially lessen such significant environmental
effect as identified in the Final EIR, and the City Council further finds that all such effects will be
mitigated to less than significant levels through implementation of Mitigation Measures HWQ-1
and AES -1, which have been adopted by the City and are enforceable through the MMRP,
Development Agreement, and project conditions of approval.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The proposed Project and associated flood control improvements will result in a potential
redirection of the off-site flow path, resulting in foreseeable sediment deposition along the west
bank of the Project site. Therefore, off-site siltation impacts are potentially significant and
Mitigation Measure HWQ-1 would be implemented to monitor and maintain the west bank to the
required conveyance and freeboard conditions. With the proposed flood control improvements,
design sequence in the Project Design Features, and Mitigation Measure HWQ-1, designed to
account for runoff conveyance around the Project while taking into consideration the natural
erosion and deposition process associated with the active alluvial fan, less than significant impacts
are expected pertaining to substantial erosion or siltation, on- or off-site.
Substation facilities include transmission poles and electric lines that are visually noticeable,
especially in a rural context where development does not camouflage facilities. (Draft EIR at p.
4.1-52). The proposed substation would be located within a rural context within the City that is
characterized by agricultural and vacant lots. Transmission and distribution lines are typically
located adjacent to the public roadways. The new substation may result in a visual change to the
existing visual character of the rural portion of the City. However, the new substation will be
required to comply with setback requirements for utility infrastructure and design features, such
as landscaping and materials used, reduces the impact of the utilities to less than significant levels
regarding their impact to scenic vistas and the surrounding visual character. For example, the use
of exposed metal which can be shiny, and block wall perimeters and decorative landscaping along
the substation frontage would reduce visual impacts of the utility field. Although electrical
substations consist of elements that are noticeable within a rural context, the potential impact of
the substations can be reduced to less than significant levels with the close coordination with IID
to ensure that impacts are avoided and minimized to the greatest degree practicable by proposing
more subtle materials used, perimeter barriers, and landscaping.
As stated above, the development of the off-site utility field, specifically the substation, would
include visually noticeable in a rural context (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-52). Typically, substation
facilities include lighting arresters, conductors, insulators, instrument transformers, electrical
power transformers, relays, circuit breakers, bus bars, etc. Substation facilities include large
transmission poles and electric lines that are visually noticeable, especially in a rural context where
development does not camouflage facilities. Transmission and distribution lines are typically
located adjacent to the public roadways. The distribution lines extending from the proposed
substation will be installed underground within existing rights-of-way. Transmission lines will be
above ground and connect the new substation to existing facilities. The new substation would result
in a visual change to the existing visual character of the rural portion of the City. However, the
new substation will be required to comply with setback requirements for utility infrastructure and
design features, such as landscaping and materials used, reduces the impact of the utilities to less
than significant levels regarding their impact to scenic vistas and the surrounding visual character.
For example, the use of exposed metal which can be shiny, and block wall perimeters and
decorative landscaping along the substation frontage would reduce visual impacts of the utility
field. In addition, Mitigation Measure AES -1 identified above will be implemented and will further
reduce potential impacts to the impact of substations in rural areas, which avoid any significant
effects (Draft EIR at p. 4.1-53).
VI. FINDINGS REGARDING IMPACTS DETERMINED TO BE LESS THAN
SIGNIFICANT
The Final EIR also determined, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the following
impacts associated with the project are less than significant and no mitigation is required. The City
hereby adopts the findings, analysis, and conclusions regarding these potential impacts set forth in
the Final EIR, and incorporates the same herein by this reference.
A. AESTHETICS.
i. Effects on a Scenic Vista:
The Santa Rosa Mountains, Coral Mountain, and Martinez Rockslide provide scenic vistas in the
southern portion of La Quinta, where the Project is located. Views of these scenic vistas are
typically observed from public rights-of-way. The Draft EIR analyzed the Project's potential
impacts to scenic vistas in the area, via visual simulations generated from public rights-of-way
surrounding the project, as well as within the Trilogy Golf Course Community. See Exhibits 4.1-
7 through 4.1-19 in the Draft EIR for the visual simulations.
ii. Finding Regarding Scenic Vistas:
The City Council finds that the project fits with the low density residential and golf course
community character of this portion of the City, and through compliance with the design guidelines
in the Specific Plan and the applicable City requirements, the project's effects relating to the scenic
vistas will be less than significant. No mitigation measures are necessary.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The findings of the analysis determined that the Project would not result in significant impacts to
the scenic vistas due to the Project's location behind Dike No. 4. From the surrounding rights-of-
way northeast and east of the Project, the Project development will not be visible. However, from
rights-of-way northwest and trails west of the Project would be able to see the Project, but
development would not result in significant obstructions to the scenic vistas due to their massing
and scale. From some locations at Trilogy (i.e., Location 5 through 9), the Project roads (i.e., the
westerly extension of Avenue 62, and southerly extension of Madison Street) are visible. However,
as determined in the Draft EIR, the Project impacts would be less than significant due to the
massing and scale of the mountains.
iii. Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway:
The State Scenic Highway Program preserves and protects scenic State highway corridors from
changes which would diminish the aesthetic value of lands adjacent to highways. Existing
qualified scenic State highways in the Coachella Valley include Route 62 and Highway 111 from
Bombay Beach in Salton Sea State Park to Route 195 near Mecca and from Route 74 (near Palm
Desert) to Interstate 10 (near Whitewater) are both eligible scenic highways but are not "officially
designated."
iv. Finding Regarding Scenic Resources within a State Scenic Highway:
The City Council finds that the project is not located near a State, County, or City designated
scenic highway. Thus, the Project's effects relating to the scenic resources will be less than
significant. No mitigation measures are necessary.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Existing qualified scenic State highways in the Coachella Valley include Route 62 and Highway
111 from Bombay Beach in Salton Sea State Park to Route 195 near Mecca and from Route 74
(near Palm Desert) to Interstate 10 (near Whitewater) are both eligible scenic highways but are not
"officially designated." There are no State or locally designated scenic highways in the vicinity of
the Project property, accordingly the Project will not result in potentially significant impacts to
scenic highways.
B. AGRICULTURAL RESOURCES AND FORESTRY RESOURCES.
i. Convert Prime, Unique, or Statewide Importance Farmland to Non -
Agricultural Use or Involve other Changes that could Result in Conversion of
Farmland to Non -Agricultural Use:
Nearly a quarter of the approximately 855 -acre Project property is within an area designated as
Unique Farmland (Draft EIR Exhibit 4.2-1). This area is characterized by the remnants of a
cultivated vineyard, which has been abandoned since 2007. Development of the Project property
would convert Unique Farmland or farmland into non-agricultural uses.
ii. Conflict with Existing Zoning for Agricultural Use or Williamson Act
Contract:
The Project property is not located within or near lands designated under the Williamson Act for
prime farmland resources. Moreover, the Project property is currently zoned Low Density
Residential (RL), Medium High Density Residential (RMH), Neighborhood Commercial (CN),
Tourist Commercial (CT), Golf Course (GC), and Open Space (OS). Zoning for agricultural use
does not occur within the Project boundaries.
iii. Conflict with Zoning for Forest Land, Timberland, or Timberland Production
or Result in Loss of Forest Land or Conversion of Forest Land to Non -Forest
Use:
The City of La Quinta does not have any existing zoning ordinances that pertain to forest land,
timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production. The City of La Quinta has no existing
land designated as forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production.
Additionally, Project implementation would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of
forest land to non -forest use because forest land does not occur on the Project site or within the
City of La Quinta.
iv. Findings Regarding Conversion of Agricultural Lands to Non -Agricultural
Uses, Conflicts with Existing Zoning for Agricultural Use or Williamson Act
Contract, or Conflicts with Existing Zoning for Forest Land, Timberland,
Timberland Production, or Convert a Forest Use to Non -Forest Uses:
The City Council finds that the Project will not convert prime, unique, or statewide importance
farmland to non-agricultural use; result in the conversion of farmland to non-agricultural uses;
conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or Williamson Act Contract; conflict with zoning
for forest land, timberland, or timberland production; or result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest land to non -forest use. Impacts will be less than significant. No mitigation
measures are necessary.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Development of the Project property would convert Unique Farmland into non-agricultural uses.
To assess the level of impact, the Project property was analyzed under the California Agricultural
Land Evaluation and Site Assessment (LESA). The LESA Report (Appendix B.1 and B.2 in the
Draft EIR) studied the soil types, project size, availability of water resources, and the presence of
surrounding agricultural land, based on a scoring system. The LESA analysis determined that the
Project would not have a significant impact on lands designated Prime Farmland, Unique
Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance.
The Project property is not located within or near lands designated under the Williamson Act for
prime farmland resources. Therefore, there would be no impacts as a result of development of the
Project.
The City of La Quinta does not have any existing zoning ordinances that pertain to forest land,
timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production. Therefore, implementation of the
proposed Project would not conflict with existing zoning, or cause rezoning of forest land,
timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production. Additionally, Project implementation
would not result in the loss of forest land or conversion of forest land to non -forest use. Therefore,
there would be no impacts.
The project proposes the development of five off-site well sites and a substation. The exact
locations of the off-site utility field facilities has not been determined; however, based upon
consultations with the local water and power providers (CVWD and IID) they are proposed to be
located east of the Project site and Dike No. 4, within a 2 -mile radius. According to the California
FMMP, a majority of the land within a 2 -mile radius is considered Urban and Built -Up Land
(approximately 34 percent). Other Land occupies approximately 28.7 percent of the potential off-
site utility field area. Farmland of Local Importance and Prime Farmland comprise of
approximately 18.6 percent and 16.2 percent of the off-site area, respectively. According to the
Riverside County 2014-2016 Land Use Conversion, provided by the California Department of
Conservation, approximately 118,077 acres of Prime Farmland was recorded in 2014. In 2016,
approximately 117,484 acres of Prime Farmland was inventoried in Riverside County. Between
2014 and 2016, approximately 593 acres (or approximately 0.5 percent) of Prime Farmland in
Riverside County was converted to different uses. The development of the wells and substation
will be constructed in compliance with CVWD and IID standards regarding their facilities. Project-
level environmental review of the wells and substation will be conducted by CVWD and IID,
respectively, in their roles as responsible agencies, and once site-specific locations of the
infrastructure are available.
Off-site parcels are located within Riverside County's light agricultural zone (A-1). A-1 zones
allow public utility facilities with a plot plan approval. The plot plan approval may include
conditions requiring fencing and landscaping of the parcel to assure that the use is compatible with
the surrounding area. Additionally, the off-site utility field is not located in Williamson Act
Contracted Lands. Impacts are less than significant.
The 2 -mile radius where the off-site utility field is proposed not include existing land designated
as forest land, timberland, or timberland zoned Timberland Production by the City of La Quinta
or Riverside County. Therefore, implementation of the proposed off-site utility field would not
conflict with existing zoning, or cause rezoning of forest land, timberland or timberland zoned
Timberland Production.
C. AIR QUALITY.
i. Expose Sensitive Receptors to Substantial Pollutant Concentrations:
The analysis makes use of methodology included in the SCAQMD Final Localized Significance
Threshold Methodology (LST Methodology). The SCAQMD has established that impacts to air
quality are significant if there is a potential to contribute or cause localized exceedances of the
NAAQS and CAAQS. Collectively, these are referred to as LSTs. LSTs were developed in
response to environmental justice and health concerns regarding exposure of individuals to criteria
pollutants in local communities. To address the issue of localized significance, the SCAQMD
adopted LSTs that show whether a Project would cause or contribute to localized air quality
impacts and thereby cause or contribute to potential localized adverse health effects.
ii. Result in Other Emissions (i.e., objectionable odors):
The project does not include any of the land uses generally associated with odor complaints; the
residential, open space, and resort uses associated with the project are not expected to operate in a
manner resulting in other emissions leading to objectionable odors. Potential odor sources
associated with the proposed project may result from construction equipment exhaust and the
application of asphalt and architectural coatings during construction activities and the temporary
storage of typical solid waste (refuse) associated with the proposed project's (long-term
operational) uses.
iii. Findings Regarding Localized Air Quality Impacts and Odors:
The City Council finds that the Project will not result expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations, and accordingly, impacts will be less than significant. No mitigation
measures are necessary. The City Council further finds that the project's odor related impacts will
be less than significant. No mitigation measures are necessary. The City Council further finds that
the Project will not have any new or substantially more severe impacts than analyzed and disclosed
in the Draft EIR.
a
Facts in Support of Finding:
The analysis makes use of methodology included in the SCAQMD Final Localized Significance
Threshold Methodology (LST Methodology). The SCAQMD has established that impacts to air
quality are significant if there is a potential to contribute or cause localized exceedances of the
NAAQS and CAAQS. Collectively, these are referred to as LSTs.
Due to the phased nature of the Project development, future phases have the potential to generate
construction impacts to previous phases of development. Phase 2 building construction activities
will impact the on-site receptors planned in Phase 1. To assess the potential Phase 2 building
construction activity and consistent with prescribed methods, a 25 -meter distance will be used for
evaluation of localized PM10, PM2.5, NO2, and CO. Similarly, Phase 3 building construction
activities will impact the on-site receptors planned in Phases 1 and 2. To assess the potential Phase
3 building construction activity, a 25 -meter distance was also used for evaluation of localized
PM 10, PM2.5, NO2, and CO.
Without mitigation, localized construction emissions would not exceed the applicable SCAQMD
LSTs for emissions of any criteria pollutant during the full range of Project construction activities.
Given that the estimated emission levels for all Project activities are below the applicable
thresholds, the implementation of off-site construction activities taking place at the utility fields
and off-site locations of street improvements is similarly not expected to result in localized
emission exceedances. All on- and off-site construction activities will be subject to the City's
fugitive dust control standards, which further ensures that LST impacts associated with particulate
matter will be less than significant.
According to SCAQMD LST methodology, LSTs would apply to the operational phase of a
proposed Project if the Project includes stationary sources or attracts mobile sources that may
spend long periods queuing and idling at the site (e.g., transfer facilities and warehouse buildings).
The proposed Project does not include uses that could generate significant stationary source
emissions; therefore, no long-term localized significance threshold analysis is required.
The Project does not contain nor is located in proximity to land uses typically associated with
emitting objectionable odors or other noxious emissions. Potential odor sources associated with
the proposed Project may result from construction equipment exhaust and the application of
asphalt and architectural coatings during construction activities, and the temporary storage of
typical solid waste (refuse) or surface water management associated with the proposed Project's
(long-term operational) uses. Standard construction requirements would minimize odor impacts
from construction. The construction odor emissions would be temporary, short-term, and
intermittent in nature and would cease upon completion of the respective phase of construction.
Therefore, potential impacts associated with construction -related odor and other noxious
emissions will be less than significant.
Potential operational emissions of or exposures to sources of odor or noxious emissions are also
expected to be less than significant. Commercial and residential refuse will be stored in covered
containers and removed at regular intervals in compliance with the City's solid waste regulations.
The proposed Project will also be required to comply with SCAQMD Rule 402 to prevent
occurrences of public nuisances. On-site water features are expected be maintained properly.
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Nearby groundwater recharge basins are designed to percolate water into the subsurface basin as
quickly as possible and standing water is not an issue with these facilities. Therefore, odors or
other noxious emissions associated with the proposed Project construction and operations will be
less than significant and no mitigation is required.
D. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES.
i. Substantial Adverse Effect on Federally Protected Wetlands:
The Draft EIR addresses effects on federally protected wetlands at page 4.4-43 of the Draft EIR.
Evidence of an OHWM was noted within the boundaries of the Project site. However, although an
OHWM is present, aquatic features within the Project site are considered ephemeral and do not
meet the definition of a Waters of the US pursuant to the latest USACE guidelines established in
2015 for mapping of Water of the US, including wetlands.
ii. Interfere Substantially with the Movement of Any Native Resident or
Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or Wildlife Corridors:
The Draft EIR addresses effects on wildlife movement at page 4.4-44 of the Draft EIR, as well as
in responses to comments received on the Draft EIR. Land uses surrounding the Project site to the
south and west consist primarily of vacant land that transitions to the Martinez Rockslide and the
Santa Rosa Mountains. Vacant land under the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) occurs along
the western border and the existing CVWD, Thomas E. Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility
and residential development occurs along the northeast border of the Project site. Wildlife
movement potentially occurs within the open SRSJM Conservation Area to the south and west of
the Project site.
iii. Conflict with Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources:
The Draft EIR addresses Project consistency with local policies and ordinances protecting
biological resources at page 4.4-44 of the Draft EIR. The proposed Project and the off-site utility
field will be developed in accordance with local, State, and federal biological resource plans and
policies, including those associated with the BLM California Desert Conservation Plan, the multi -
agency PBS Recovery Plan and the CVMSHCP. The City of La Quinta does not have a tree
preservation policy or ordinance and relies on the CVMSHCP.
iv. Conflict with the Provisions of an Adopted Habitat Conservation Plan:
The Draft EIR addresses Project consistency with the CVMSHCP at page 4.4-44 of the Draft EIR.
The Project, and the off-site utility field area, are located within the Plan boundaries of the
CVMSHCP and are subject to its provisions. The CVMSHCP identifies the Travertine Specific
Plan as a "Covered Activity". The majority of the Project footprint is located outside of the
adjacent CVMSHCP Conservation Area. However, approximately 36.89 acres of the Project
footprint are within the Conservation Area, including 15.65 acres associated with the proposed
water tank facility (6.40 acres of permanent impacts and 9.25 acre of remedial grading), 9.52 acres
associated with the Jefferson Street extension, 6.81 acres associated with the improvements to the
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existing Guadalupe Dike, 4.41 acres associated with offsite flood protection along the western
edge of the Project, and 0.45 acre associated with a proposed trail.
V. Findings Regarding Federally Protected Wetlands, the Movement of Any
Native Resident or Migratory Fish or Wildlife Species or Wildlife Corridors,
Local Policies or Ordinances Protecting Biological Resources, and an Adopted
Habitat Conservation Plan:
The City Council finds that the Project will not result in impacts to federally protected wetlands,
and therefore, impacts will be less than significant. No mitigation measures are necessary. The
City Council further finds that the Project will not interfere substantially with wildlife movement
and therefore impacts are less than significant. No mitigation measures are necessary. The City
Council further finds that the Project will not conflict with local policies or ordinances adopted to
protect biological resources or any adopted habitat conservation plan, and therefore impacts are
less than significant.
Facts in Support of Finding:
As discussed at page 4.4-43 of the Draft EIR, aquatic features within the Project site are considered
ephemeral and do not meet the definition of Waters of the US. Therefore, onsite aquatic features
would not be subject to regulation under Section 404 of the Clean Water Act and would not fall
under USACE jurisdiction. The proposed Project does not contain any state or federally protected
wetlands and will not result in any impacts to this resource. Further, the aquatic features potentially
extant within the off-site utility field are not expected to have a connection to interstate commerce
via relatively permanent waters or traditional navigable waters and are therefore not anticipated to
be jurisdictional pursuant to section 404 of the Clean Water Act.
As discussed at page 4.4-44 of the Draft EIR, land uses surrounding the Project site to the south
and west consist primarily of vacant land that transitions to the Martinez Rockslide and the Santa
Rosa Mountains. Vacant land under the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) occurs along the
western border and the existing CVWD, Thomas E. Levy Groundwater Replenishment facility and
residential development occurs along the northeast border of the Project site. Any wildlife
currently utilizing the Project site and adjacent areas of dispersal and movement are likely adapted
to disturbances associated with such environments. Wildlife movement especially PBS, potentially
occurs within the open space SRSJM Conservation Area to the south and west of the Project site.
Conservation and protections of these areas would continue to provide opportunities for local
wildlife movement and function as a corridor for PBS and other highly mobile wildlife species.
Therefore, less than significant impacts are expected to corridor movement.
The City of La Quinta does not have a tree preservation policy or ordinance and relies on the
CVMSHCP. As discussed at page 4.4-44 of the Draft EIR, the project has been determined through
the MSHCP Joint Project Review to be consistent with the MSHCP.
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E. ENERGY.
i. Consumption of Energy Resources:
The Project involves construction activities and will consume energy resources, primarily in the
form of petroleum, natural gas, and electricity. However, there are no unusual project
characteristics or construction processes that would require the use of equipment that would be
more energy intensive than is used for comparable construction activities, or that would violate
current emissions standards (Draft EIR, at pp. 4.5-12 — 4.5-17), and therefore, construction -related
impacts would be less than significant.
The project would increase demand for energy In the project area, including electricity, natural
gas, and petroleum, and is located within the service areas of (Imperial Irrigation District) IID and
SoCal Gas Company.
ii. Consistency with a State or Local Plan for Renewable Energy or Energy
Efficiency:
The Project is subject to CALGreen Building Codes and Title 24 codes and standards for both
residential and nonresidential components of the project, as well as the City of La Quinta's GHG
Reduction Plan and General Plan goals and policies for reducing energy consumption. As a result,
the project is required to incorporate energy efficient design features that result in substantial
reductions in energy consumption and GHG emissions, including the measures described below
and in the Draft EIR.
The proposed Project would incorporate several project design features (PDFs) directed at
minimizing energy use, such as the implementation of a Project -specific Water Conservation
Strategy to reduce water demands and associated energy use. In addition to the PDFs, the Project
will also be required to implement standards required by the California Building Energy Efficiency
Standards (Title 24 of CCR), and Appliance Energy Efficiency Standards (Title 20 of CCR). These
standards require high efficiency lighting, 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 Building Code standards in effect at the time
development occurs. Title 24 standards also require solar systems for new homes. The project
would also install water -efficient plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems, LED technology,
drought -tolerant plants in landscaping.
iii. Findings Regarding Energy Resources Impacts and Consistency with State or
Local Plans for Renewable Energy or Energy Efficiency:
The City Council finds that compliance with existing state, regional, and City regulations, plans,
and programs, in addition to the incorporation of project design features identified above and in
the Draft EIR, would ensure that the Project is consistent with all applicable state and local plans
for energy efficiency and that consumption of energy resources would not be wasteful, inefficient,
or unnecessary, and therefore, project impacts related to energy resources will be less than
significant. No mitigation measures are necessary. The City Council further finds that the Project
will not have any new or substantially more severe impacts than analyzed and disclosed in the
Draft EIR.
Facts in Support of Finding:
Project construction and operation will not result in significant impacts due to wasteful, inefficient,
or unnecessary consumption of energy resources during project construction or operation because
the Project is consistent with CALGreen Building Codes and Title 24 codes and standards for both
residential and nonresidential components of the project, as well as the City of La Quinta's GHG
Reduction Plan and General Plan goals and policies for reducing energy consumption (Draft EIR,
at pp. 4.6-17 — 4.6-21).
The project would not result in wasteful, inefficient or unnecessary consumption of energy during
construction. The estimated construction -related electricity usage represents approximately 1.71
percent of the Project's estimated annual operational demand. 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 electrical demand of 191,088.1 kWh over the course of nine years
of Project construction, the Project construction would cumulatively account for less than
approximately 0.004 percent of IID's total estimated demand in 2031 (Draft EIR pg. 4.6-12). In
addition, the Project is consistent with EPA/CARB Tier 4 emission standards, and CARB's 2022
Plan for achieving carbon neutrality. The Project is required to operate off-road diesel construction
equipment rated at 50 horsepower (hp) or greater in compliance with EPA/CARB Tier 4 off-road
emissions standards or equivalent, during all construction activities (Mitigation Measure AQ -1).
The project proposes a mixed-use development that provides complementary uses with an
emphasis on connectivity and alternative modes of transportation to reduce vehicle use within the
project. Operation of the Project would generate an annual demand for approximately 11,144,490
kWh at build -out accounting for energy -reducing project design features described below (see
Table 5 in Appendix F of Draft EIR). The LQGP EIR predicts that buildout of residential and
commercial uses in the General Plan, including the proposed Project property, will result in
electrical consumption of 1,088,371,637.12 kWh per year. Residential uses will account for
530,867,194 kWh/year of this amount, while commercial uses will consume 557,504,443.12
kWh/year. As indicated in the table below, the proposed Project is anticipated to consume
approximately 12,987,903 kWh/year, which is approximately 1.2 percent of the City's electrical
consumption at total build -out.
The IID delivered approximately 3,678.63 gigawatt hours (GWh) of electricity to its service area
in 2020. IID estimates that electricity consumption within IID's service area will be approximately
4,641.27 GWh annually by 2031. Based on the proposed Project's estimated annual electrical
demand of 12,987,903 kWh (or 12.9879 GWh), the Project would account for approximately 0.28
percent of IID's total estimated demand in 2031.
Project operations natural gas consumption will be primarily from building space heating, water
heating, and cooking. At buildout the Project is estimated to consume approximately 41,923,277.7
cubic feet or 43,474,439 kBTU of natural gas annually (see Table 6 in Appendix F of Draft EIR).
According to the LQGP EIR, at General Plan build -out, the aggregate of City residential units will
use approximately 919,426,079 cubic feet of natural gas per year (cf/year). For City-wide
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commercial uses, consumption will be approximately 512,618,978.28 cf/year. At buildout, all
combined City land uses are expected to consume approximately 1,432,045,057.28 cubic feet per
year. This number is equivalent to 1,485,030,724.4 kBTU. The Project is anticipated to consume
approximately 43,474,439 kBTU/year, which is approximately 2.9 percent of the City's natural
gas consumption at buildout of the City. Based on the 2018 California Gas Report, the California
Gas and Electric Utility providers in the State estimate natural gas consumption within SoCalGas's
planning area will be approximately 2,310 million cf per day in 2030. The Project would consume
approximately 0.0034 percent of the 2030 forecasted consumption in SoCalGas's planning area.
Although the Project would result in a long-term increase in demand for natural gas, the Project
would be designed to comply with Title 24, Part 6 of the CCR regarding energy consumption. As
a part of the project design features to reduce energy consumption, the Project will install
appliances with the highest energy efficiency practicable. The implementation of the project design
features listed throughout this Energy Resources section and Chapter 3.0, Project Description, will
be included as an enforceable provision in the Development Agreement, and will reduce the
amount of natural gas consumed during project operation. Therefore, impacts will be less than
significant without mitigation. Impacts would be less than significant.
The Project will also comply with some of the current transportation sector policies (through
vehicle manufacturer compliance) in the 2022 Scoping Plan, including: Advanced Clean Cars II,
Advanced Clean Trucks, Advanced Clean Fleets, Zero Emission Forklifts, the Off -Road Zero -
Emission Targeted Manufacturer rule, Clean Off -Road Fleet Recognition Program, In -use Off -
Road Diesel -Fueled Fleets Regulation, Off -Road Zero -Emission Targeted Manufacturer rule,
Clean Off -Road Fleet Recognition Program, Amendments to the In -use Off -Road Diesel -Fueled
Fleets Regulation, carbon pricing through the Cap -and -Trade Program, and the Low Carbon Fuel
Standard. Further, the Project will include design features related to water conservation. Lastly,
the Project would be required to comply with applicable elements outlined in the County's CAP.
As such, the Project would not obstruct the any State plan for renewable energy or energy
efficiency.
F. GEOLOGY AND SOILS.
i. Direct or Indirect Effects Involving Soil Rupture:
The San Andreas and San Jacinto fault zones are located approximately 10 miles northeast and
14.8 miles southwest of the Project property, respectively. No major active faults are mapped
onsite or in the vicinity of the property.
ii. Soils Incompatible to Support Septic Tanks or Alternative Waste Water
Disposal:
The Project does not include septic tanks or alternative water disposal systems. CVWD provides
the City of La Quinta and the project vicinity with sewerage collection and treatment services.
iii. Findings Regarding Soil Rupture and Soils Impacts of Septic Tanks and Waste
Water Disposal:
The City Council finds that compliance with existing state, regional, and City regulations, plans,
and programs will avoid significant risks from seismic induced rupture, or provide soils
incompatible to support a septic system or alternative waste water disposal, and these geology and
soils impacts would be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project property does not lie within a currently delineated State of California, Alquist-Priolo
Earthquake Fault Zone. The geotechnical investigation performed for this Project indicates that
there are no active faults or areas of potential ground rupture at or in the vicinity of the property.
Therefore, there will be no impact associated with fault rupture on-site.
The Project does not include septic tanks or alternative water disposal systems. CVWD provides
the City of La Quinta and the project vicinity with sewerage collection and treatment services. The
Project proposes to extend existing CVWD sewer mains along Avenue 62 and Jefferson Street to
the Project property.
G. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS.
i. Emit Hazardous Emissions or Materials within One -Quarter Mile of a School:
Under CEQA Guideline 15186, additional notification and consultation requirements may apply
to projects with one-quarter mile of an existing school facility. The Project site is not located
within 1/4 mile of an existing or proposed school.
ii. Located within an Airport Land Use Plan:
The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is located at 56-850 Higgins Drive in Thermal,
California approximately 5.4 miles northeast of the future Avenue 62 entrance to the project site,
and approximately 6 miles northeast of the future Jefferson Street entrance to the project site.
iii. Effect on an Emergency Response Plan:
There is currently no paved public access to the Project property. An unpaved road exists from the
north which in the future will be the extension of Jefferson Street. On the east, Avenue 62 stops at
the toe of Dike No. 4. Future access would be provided by the extension of Avenue 62 across the
Dike and the impoundment area and onto the site to connect to Jefferson Street. A project -specific
Fire Master Plan was completed for the Project to determine the level of service and ensure
emergency response would be available at the Project property during the development of the first
600 residential units.
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iv. Risk of Wildfires:
According to CAL FIRE's Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map, the Project does not lie in a Fire
Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ). The southern and southeastern sides of the property, however,
abuts areas designated as "Moderate" FHSZ (see Exhibit 4.9-1 in Draft EIR).
V. Finding Regarding Hazardous Emissions Near Schools, Airports, Effects on
Emergency Response Plans, and Risk of Wildfire:
The City Council finds that compliance with existing federal, state, regional, and City regulations
will ensure impacts related to schools located within a quarter mile of the Project, and the Project's
construction and operations, including the potential effects on emergency response plans, and the
risk of wildfires will be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The Project site is not located within'/4 mile of an existing or proposed school. The nearest school
to the project site is the Westside Elementary School located at 82225 Airport Boulevard in
Thermal, approximately 2.7 miles northeast of the Project site. Offsite improvements include the
construction and operation of a 2.5 -acre substation within a 2 -mile radius of the Project site's
northern and northeastern boundaries and the development of up to five wells in a utility field area.
The substation is proposed in vacant lots south of Avenue 58, which lies over 1/4 mile from the
closest existing school (Westside Elementary School, approximately 0.30 miles from utility field
area). Therefore, the Project's proposed onsite and offsite improvements will have no impact on
schools as it relates to hazardous materials. Project -level environmental review of the wells and
substation will be conducted by CVWD and IID, respectively, in their roles as CEQA lead
agencies, and once site-specific locations of the infrastructure is available.
The Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport is located at 56-850 Higgins Drive in Thermal,
California approximately 5.4 miles northeast of the future Avenue 62 entrance to the project site,
and approximately 6 miles northeast of the future Jefferson Street entrance to the project site. The
Project site is outside the Airport Land Use Compatibility Zone. The offsite improvements are
proposed to be located more than 2 miles west of the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport.
Therefore, the site's location in relation to the airport indicates that the Project will not be impacted
by an airport -related safety hazard or excessive noise that could impact Project residents,
employees or visitors to the project.
The Project property is located in a relatively isolated area surrounded on the west and south by
the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area; on the east by agricultural land and
residential communities, and on the north and northeast by the CVWD Dike No. 4 impoundment
area and Coral Mountain. North and northeast of this area are residential communities, vacant
parcels that are designated for residential use, and Lake Cahuilla. There is currently no paved
public access to the Project property. An unpaved road exists from the north which in the future
will be the extension of Jefferson Street. On the east, Avenue 62 stops at the toe of Dike No. 4.
Future access would be provided by the extension of Avenue 62 across the Dike and the
impoundment area and onto the site to connect to Jefferson Street. A project -specific Fire Master
Plan was completed for the Project to determine the level of service and ensure emergency
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response would be available at the Project property during the development of the first 600
residential units. The Project's consistency with an adopted emergency response plan or
emergency evacuation plan is discussed in detail in Section 4.19, Wildfire, in the Draft EIR.
Impacts were determined to be less than significant. Please consult Section 4.19 for further
discussion of project impacts on emergency response and evacuation plans.
According to the City of La Quinta's Emergency Services Division Emergency Operations Plan
(EOP), a wildfire as an uncontrolled fire spreading through vegetative fuels and damaging or
possibly destroying structures. Areas where wildfires could impact communities include Wildland
Urban Interface (WUI) areas, which includes the line, area, or zone where structures and other
human development meet or intermingle with undeveloped wildland and vegetation fuels.
Proximity of new neighborhoods to wildland areas, coupled with the prolonged drought conditions
the Coachella Valley has experienced in recent years that has resulted in excessively dry
vegetation, increases the risk of wildfires. The Project site is located in the southern portion of the
City. According to CAL FIRE's Fire Hazard Severity Zones Map, the Project does not lie in a Fire
Hazard Severity Zone (FHSZ). The southern and southeastern sides of the property, however,
abuts areas designated as "Moderate" FHSZ (see Exhibit 4.9-1 below). Section 4.19, Wildfires,
further analyzes the potential impact of wildfires to the Project site. The potential for wildfire
threats to impact people and structures was determined to be less than significant.
H. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY.
i. Compliance with Water Quality Standards or Waste Discharge
Requirements:
During construction and operation (life of the project), implementation of the proposed
development will be required to comply with CWA, NPDES, state, and local regulations to prevent
violations or impacts to surface water quality standards and waste discharge requirements pertinent
to surface or ground water quality. These requirements include development and implementation
of a project -specific storm water pollution prevention plan (SWPPP) and compliance with NPDES
General Permit, Order No. 2009-0009-DWQ, as amended by 2010-00014-DWQ and 2012-006-
DWQ, during all construction activities (Draft EIR, at pp. 4.10-20). The project is also required to
develop and implement a project -specific Water Quality Management Plan (WQMP) and to
comply with the NPDES Order No. R7-2013-0011 (Waste Discharge Requirements for Discharges
from the Municipal Separate Storm Sewer System (MS4) within the Whitewater River Watershed)
during long-term operations (Draft EIR, at pp. 4.10-21 — 4.10-22).
ii. Effect on Groundwater Supplies or Interference with Groundwater Recharge:
The Project will rely on groundwater resources as a source of domestic and construction water
supplies. The Project also has the potential to alter existing drainage and infiltration and
groundwater quality. A Water Supply Assessment and Water Supply Verification (WSA/WSV)
for Travertine Specific Plan was prepared for and approved by CVWD on June 16, 2021, with an
approved revision on March 13, 2018 that is valid through June 24, 2026. The Project's total water
demand is projected to be 867.47 AFY, per the WSA/WSV (Draft EIR pg. 4.10-24).
The project includes a storm drain system allowing project runoff to be intercepted and conveyed
along engineered storm drain lines toward a system of on-site detention and retention basins, sized
to meet the City's hydrologic requirements and water quality objectives under a required WQMP.
The storm drain and basin system will be privately operated, monitored and maintained during the
life of the project per a required WQMP agreement to be entered between the project proponent
and the City. In doing so, the project's on-site infrastructure will be managed in perpetuity to
prevent the discharge of untreated runoff. The proposed storm drain and retention infrastructure
will be consistent with Chapter 13.24.120 (Drainage) of the La Quinta Municipal Code and with
the City's Engineering Bulletin #06-16 (Hydrology and Hydraulic Report Criteria for Storm Drain
Systems), requiring on-site retention/detention basins and other necessary stormwater
management facilities that are capable of managing the 100 -year stormwater flows.
The project site is located west of the CVWD Thomas Levy Groundwater Replenishment Facility
and the US Bureau of Reclamation Dike No. 4. Based on the CVWD web site, the Groundwater
Replenishment Facility was completed in 2009. This system is hydrologically separated from
stormwater surface drainage patterns conveyed to the retention system for Dike No. 4. The
groundwater replenishment facilities are protected by a system of earthen berms, dikes, and
concrete channels designed to convey drainage along the westerly and southerly facility limits
toward Dike No. 4. As such, these flood control facilities establish a physical separation between
the recharge ponds and the dike's retention areas.
iii. Result in On- or Off-site Flooding:
The proposed land uses will result in an increase in impervious land cover through the introduction
of structures, hardscape and streets. The Project will incorporate private on-site infrastructure that
will serve all developed portions of the subject property to intercept, convey, and detain
stormwater runoff resulting from the project development and under the conditions of the design
or controlling storm (24-hour, 100 -year).
The Drainage Master Plan prepared for the Project performed the hydrologic analysis necessary to
determine the engineering controls to address the naturally occurring off-site alluvial fan drainage
interfacing with the project. The proposed concept would primarily establish bank protection along
the western and southern project edges to direct flows toward the receiving Dike No. 4 facilities.
iv. Create Runoff Which Would Exceed the Capacity of Existing or Planned
Stormwater Drainage Systems:
Runoff from the incremental increases in runoff resulting from the conversion of undeveloped
(pervious) to developed (impervious) land cover, will be intercepted, conveyed, and
retained/detained on-site in accordance with the City's engineering requirements and following
the City approval of the final engineering plans (grading, hydrology, street, storm drain, utilities).
CVWD is responsible for the review and approval of offsite improvements. The on-site retention
will result in minimal pretreated discharge as approved by CVWD and contribution of runoff
quantities above those observed from the undeveloped setting will be minimal. The capture and
retention of urban runoff, in accordance with the WQMP site design and source control measures,
will prevent a contribution of additional sources of pollution.
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V. Consistency with Water Quality Control Plan or Sustainable Groundwater
Management Plan:
As discussed above, the project is required to comply with the applicable water control plans
during both construction and for the life of the project. The project's consistency with the
applicable Sustainable Groundwater Management Plan is also discussed above.
Vi. Findings Regarding Compliance with Water Quality Standards, Effect on
Groundwater Supplies and Recharge, Flooding, Runoff, and Consistency with
Water Quality Control Plan and Sustainable Groundwater Management
Plan:
The City Council finds that the Project will not have any significant adverse effects relating to
hydrology and water quality, including causing any violations of water quality standards or
discharge requirements, effecting groundwater recharge or quality, resulting in on- or off-site
flooding, creating runoff exceeding capacity of the drainage systems, or conflicting with any water
control plan. In addition, the City Council finds that the project will not have any significant
adverse effects on existing or future groundwater supplies, nor will it interfere with CVWD's
ongoing groundwater recharge efforts. Finally, the City Council finds that the Project will not have
any new or substantially more severe impacts than analyzed and disclosed in the Draft EIR.
Facts Supporting Findings:
Combliance with Water Oualitv Standards or Waste Discharge Requirements
During the construction phase compliance with water quality and waste discharge requirements
will be achieved through the permit registration and coverage process under the NPDES General
Permit identified above. This will require development and implementation of a project -specific
Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) that includes a strategy of BMPs that prevent
pollution from leaving the site (see Draft EIR, at p. 4.10-21). During the life of the project, the
water quality standards and discharge requirements will be met through compliance with the
NPDES permit identified above, including developing and implementing a project -specific Water
Quality Management Plan (WQMP) demonstrating site design and source controls that prevent
pollutant runoff and meet 100 percent of the Low Impact Development (LID) Site Design
requirements, including the use of retention basins on-site. Compliance with these established
regulatory requirements will ensure that the Project will not violate any water quality or waste
discharge requirements, and impacts will be less than significant.
Effect on Groundwater Supplies or Interference with Groundwater Recharge
The Project's total water demand is projected to be 867.47 AFY, per the WSA/WSV (Draft EIR
pg. 4.10-24). Based on the information, analysis, and findings documented in the WSA/WSV with
approval by CVWD, substantial evidence was produced to support a determination that there will
be sufficient water supplies to meet the demands of the proposed project, and future demands of
the project, plus all forecasted demands in the next 20 years. This is based on the volume of water
available in the aquifer, CVWD's State Water Project and Colorado River contract supplies, water
rights and other water supply contracts, and CVWD's commitment to eliminate overdraft and
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reduce per capita water use in CVWD's service area. CVWD has committed sufficient resources
to further implement utilization of imported water supplies, purchase of additional water supplies,
water conservation, and source substitution.
The project's storm drain and basin system will be privately operated, monitored and maintained
during the life of the project per a required WQMP agreement to be entered between the project
proponent and the City. In doing so, the project's on-site infrastructure will be managed in
perpetuity to prevent the discharge of untreated runoff. The required non-structural and structural
source control measures, including associated maintenance, will be applicable during the life of
the project. The Project is therefore not expected to violate or interfere with the groundwater
quality. Regarding ground water quality, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
The proposed development will establish new flood protection embankments along the west and
south project limits to convey off-site runoff in a similar pattern and direction as the existing
improvements established to protect the recharge facilities. Off-site runoff will be conveyed
northerly and easterly toward Dike No. 4. Meanwhile, on-site project runoff will be conveyed via
storm drain lines to the on-site detention/retention basins. As a result of these infrastructure
improvements designed to handle surface runoff and protect on- and off-site conditions, the project
is not expected to result in a reduction or interference with the existing replenishment operations.
Less than significant impacts are anticipated pertaining to interference with groundwater recharge.
Result in On- or Off -Site Flooding
The on-site storm drain system will be private and require proper operation and maintenance
during the life of the project, as mandated by the governing covenants, conditions, and restrictions,
and by the WQMP agreement that will be required of this project prior to issuance of a grading
permit. As a result of the on-site storm drain infrastructure, the project will not result in an increase
in the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner that would result in on-site flooding.
The Drainage Master Plan found that the infrastructure improvements would result in minimal
changes ("little to no impact") on the offsite volumes being conveyed along the banks toward the
receiving system. Instead, the system would simply redirect the flows in a similar manner that the
existing berms have been established to protect the agricultural fields or off-site groundwater
replenishment facilities. As a result, the off-site improvements would not result in an increase in
the surface runoff in a manner that would result in flooding on- or off-site. Less than significant
impacts are anticipated.
Create Runoff Which Would Exceed the Capacity of Existing or Planned Stormwater
Drainage Systems
Pertaining to runoff pollution, the on-site storm drain system's detention system will capture
project area runoff in accordance with the Project specific Water Quality Management Plan
(WQMP), preventing uncontrolled release into any public MS4 facilities. Dike No. 4 will continue
to protect properties to the east of the levee from impacts associated with water quality and quantity
impacts. Therefore, the project will not result in stormwater runoff conditions which would burden
the City's existing MS4 capacity, create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the
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capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional
sources of polluted runoff. Therefore, the impact is less than significant.
Consistency with Water Qualitv Control Plan or Sustainable Groundwater Management
Plan
The project proponent is required to implement a project -specific 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. Moreover, the project's storm water retention
facilities will ensure that urban runoff is recharged into the ground via infiltration. As discussed
previously, the design of stormwater facilities will protect the CVWD recharge basins from
intrusion of surface flows which can impact the functionality of the basins by introducing excess
sedimentation or other contaminants.
The WSA/WSV prepared for this project compiled sufficient evidence for approval by CVWD.
The findings of this document determined that there will be sufficient water supplies to meet the
demands of the proposed project, and future demands of the project, plus all forecasted demands
in the next 20 years. Further discussion of domestic water is found in the Utilities and Public
Services sections of this DEIR. As such, project implementation is not expected to conflict with
the regional groundwater management strategies or with the Indio Subbasin Sustainable
Groundwater Management Plan.
Pertaining to conflicts with a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management
plan, less than significant impacts are anticipated.
I. LAND USE.
i. Division of an Established Community:
The majority of the Project property is currently vacant land, void of any physical structures. Man-
made improvements are found on land adjacent to the Project property including the BOR/CVWD
Dike No. 4 and CVWD groundwater recharge basins abutting the Project to the east. Golf course
communities (Andalusia, Trilogy and PGA West) lie approximately one mile to the north and
northeast. The remaining land surrounding the Project property is vacant. The closest established
communities to the Project include Trilogy to the east and northeast, separated by Dike No. 4, and
The Quarry at La Quinta to the northwest, separated by the Guadelupe Dike and vacant land.
ii. Consistency with Any Land Use Plan, Policy or Regulation:
The Project proposes development of a medium- and low-density residential community with golf
academy, resort spa, 100 villas, and recreational amenities. The Project includes applications for
technical amendments to the Zoning Map and General Plan to make modifications to allow the
proposed uses. Project entitlements include a GPA and SPA. The approval of the General Plan
Amendment and Specific Plan Amendment would modify the land use designations from Low
Density Residential, Medium/High Density Residential, General Commercial, Tourist
Commercial, Recreational Open Space, and Natural Open Space to Low Density Residential,
Medium/High Density Residential, Tourist Commercial, Recreational Open Space, and Natural
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Open Space. The Low Density Residential, Medium/High Density Residential, Tourist
Commercial, Recreational Open Space, and Natural Open Space land uses proposed for the project
are consistent with the current General Plan land use designations, and do not represent a
substantial change to the character of the area as envisioned in the General Plan. A detailed analysis
of applicable goals, policies and programs contained in the General Plan was conducted to
determine the Project's consistency with the existing plan.
Along with the GPA and ZC, the Project is requesting approval of a Specific Plan Amendment
(SPA), a Tentative Tract Map (TTM), and Development Agreement (DA). The SPA is a land use
planning document which, if adopted by the City of La Quinta, would serve as the site-specific
zoning document for the Project. Specifically, the SPA provides for the distribution of land uses,
location and sizing of supporting infrastructure, as well as development standards and regulations
for uses within the Project property. The TTM subdivides the property into smaller lots for
subsequent development into lots suitable for the development of the uses permitted for these areas
under the SPA. The DA establishes an agreement between the developer and the City regarding
the development of the Project property.
The Draft EIR analyzed the land use consistencies of the proposed Project in relation to the City
of La Quinta General Plan, the La Quinta Municipal Code, the existing 1995 Approved Specific
Plan, the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan, and the Southern
California Association of Governments Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities
Strategy (SCAG RTP/SCS). See Appendix K of the Draft EIR for associated tables.
iii. Findings Regarding Division of an Established Community and Land Use
Plan, Policy and Regulation Consistency:
The City Council hereby adopts and incorporates herein the findings, analysis and conclusions set
forth in the Draft EIR, and further specifically finds that the project is consistent with the General
Plan as to each and every of these chapters. The City Council also finds that the project Specific
Plan Amendment will serve as the regulatory document providing the zoning requirements and
restrictions for the project, and therefore, the project will be fully consistent with the applicable
zoning. The City Council also specifically finds that the project is consistent with the character of
the surrounding residential and golf course communities.
Facts Supporting Findings:
Implementation of the proposed Project would not physically divide an established community.
As discussed above, the majority of the Project property is currently vacant land, void of any
physical structures. Man-made improvements are found on land adjacent to the Project property
including the BOR/CVWD Dike No. 4 and CVWD groundwater recharge basins abutting the
Project to the east. Golf course communities (Andalusia, Trilogy and PGA West) lie approximately
one mile to the north and northeast. The remaining land surrounding the Project property is vacant.
The City has previously approved the development of a master planned community on the Project
property through the adoption of the 1995 Specific Plan and the proposed Project sets forth the
development of a master -planned residential and resort community of a reduced footprint relative
to the previously approved Specific Plan. For all of the above reasons, implementation of the
proposed Project would not result in the division of an established community.
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The analysis contained in the Draft EIR concludes that with approval of the proposed Travertine
Specific Plan Amendment, the Project would remain consistent with the City's General Plan,
Zoning, Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP), and the
Southern California Association of Governments (SLAG) Regional Transportation Plan -
Sustainable Communities Strategy (RTP/SCS). Therefore, implementation of the Project would
not result in significant land use impacts due to inconsistency with any land use plan, policy, or
regulation (Draft EIR pg. 4.11-26 through 4.11-31).
The analysis contained in Table 1 of Appendix K in the Draft EIR concludes that with approval of
the proposed Travertine Specific Plan Amendment, the Project would remain consistent with the
City's General Plan. Therefore, implementation of the Project would not result in significant land
use impacts due to inconsistency with the General Plan.
The proposed SPA would supersede the current zoning designations on the Project property and
set forth the planning areas, land use policies, development standards, and design guidelines for
the Project. All development on the Project property shall adhere to the standards and requirements
set forth in the SPA. Additionally, any changes to the Specific Plan shall be processed pursuant to
California State Government Code Section 65453 and will be subject to the requirements of
Section 9.240.010 (Specific Plan Review) of the La Quinta Zoning Ordinance. The review and
approval of the proposed Zone Change would not result in significant impacts since the proposed
zoning designations decrease land use density and intensity and are compliant with the proposed
General Plan uses.
The City is located within the boundaries of the Coachella Valley MSHCP (CVMSHCP), to which
the City is a "Permittee". The La Quinta Municipal Code Chapter 3.34, CVMSHCP/Natural
Community Conservation Plan Mitigation Fee requires the City to collect development impact
fees to fund acquisitions and manage conservation lands.
The consistency analysis determined that the proposed Project is consistent with the applicable
goals in the RTP/SCS. The Project proposes a mixed-use development that will construct
infrastructure supporting the Project and employment opportunities. Multi -use roadways proposed
for the Project would allow accessibility through the various land uses onsite. The development of
multi -modal paths will create an efficient and accessible roadway system and allows reliable and
safe travel throughout the site. These are consistent with RTP/SCS Goals 1— 3 and 5 — 8. RTP/SCS
Goals 4 and 9 are associated with the regional transportation system and therefore are not
applicable to the Project.
Thus, implementation of the proposed Project would be in accordance with applicable local and
state land use regulations and would not conflict with any established Land Use Plan, Policy, or
Regulation.
Based on the consistency analysis prepared for this Project, it will be consistent with the goals and
policies of the La Quinta General Plan. Impacts will be less than significant.
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J. NOISE.
i. Generation of Ground Borne Vibration:
The Draft/Final EIR analyzed the potential impacts of vibration created by the proposed project.
Potential ground -borne vibration is associated with vehicular traffic and construction activities.
ii. Finding Regarding Ground Borne Vibration:
The City Council finds that the project's impacts relating to the generation of ground borne
vibration will be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Findings:
As described in the Draft EIR, ground -borne vibration levels from automobile traffic, including
heavy trucks, are rarely perceptible beyond the roadway right-of-way, and the project generated
traffic would not cause any significant adverse effects, including on the local residential
communities (Draft EIR, at p. 4.12-30).
To evaluate potential construction -related vibration, ground vibration levels associated with
various types of construction equipment were analyzed, and as determined in the Noise Study,
vibration levels at all nearby sensitive receptor locations would be below the perception threshold
of 0.01 in/sec. (Draft EIR, Table 4.12-24). Accordingly, potential impacts from the generation of
ground borne vibration and ground borne noise by project construction activities would be less
than significant.
K. POPULATION AND HOUSING.
i. Induce Direct or Indirect Unplanned Growth:
The Draft/Final EIR analyzed the potential impacts of the direct and indirect growth induced by
the proposed Project. Direct population growth occurs from the development of new residential
units. Indirect population growth could result from the creation of new jobs or the removal of
barriers to growth, including the adoption of a Specific Plan such as the Travertine Specific Plan
Project. The proposed Project has the potential to induce both direct and indirect population growth
by providing up to 1,200 new dwelling units on approximately 378.8 acres, approximately 84.5
acres of tourist commercial uses associated with the proposed resort and golf club, and generating
approximately 3,250 people and 250 new part-time and full-time jobs, consistent with the Project -
specific VMT Evaluation (See Appendix M.2 of Draft EIR).
ii. Displace People or Housing Resulting in the Need for New Housing:
The Project property comprises undeveloped land at the southern edge of the City of La Quinta.
The City of La Quinta has previously approved the development of the site for residential and
mixed uses.
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iii. Findings Regarding Induced Growth and Displacement of People or Housing:
The City Council finds that the project's impacts relating to Project -related direct and indirect
growth will be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Findings:
Population: The Project is proposing the construction of 1,200 dwelling units of varying types.
Utilizing the VMT Evaluation's service population figure, the population anticipated from total
buildout would equate to 3,250 new residents, for an approximate population of 41,110 in the City
by 2035. This is an increase of approximately 8.6 percent, and still below the projected City's 2035
and SCAG's 2045 population forecasts of 46,297 and 47,700 people, respectively.
The population increase associated with the Project would account for approximately 33 percent
of the remaining capacity for population growth anticipated by SCAG in their RTC/SCS. Although
buildout and full occupancy of the Project could potentially result in a 6.8 percent population
increase of the current City population, this increase is consistent with City and regional growth
projections, and public service providers and utilities will be able to adequately accommodate this
growth. Therefore, the Project would not result in a substantial unanticipated population increase
in the City. Impacts would be less than significant.
Housing: According to the LQGP EIR, the City of La Quinta Land Use Plan can accommodate up
to 31,603 residential dwelling units within the City limits, and also could provide for 21,500
dwelling units within the Sphere of Influence (SOI). Therefore, at total buildout and inclusive of
buildout of the City's SOI, the City has the potential to result in a total of 53,103 dwelling units
throughout the City's Planning Area (corporate limits and SOI).
The 1,200 dwelling units proposed for the Project accounts for approximately 3.8 percent of the
remaining capacity for dwelling units anticipated by the LQGP EIR. The proposed Project will
provide a range of housing types and densities at varying price points that could help meet the
anticipated demand for housing within different economic segments of the City of La Quinta.
Proposed Project housing would consist of low density residential and medium density residential
units, including larger -lot estate homes and high and middle-income single-family homes. It also
provides for entry-level single-family homes and attached patio and duplexes units. The goals and
policies of the City's Housing Element support the development of a variety of housing types and
residential densities within the City, as proposed by the Travertine Specific Plan Amendment.
Therefore, while implementation of the Project would result in a direct increase in population and
housing, consistent with projected residential growth for the City. Therefore, the Project would
not result in a substantial increase in total housing units in the City. Impacts would be less than
significant.
Employ: Project buildout has the potential to create approximately 250 part-time and full-
time jobs. These include hospitality commercial, retail sales, resort and related service jobs. Many
of these new jobs may be filled by workers already residing within the City or the Coachella Valley
region or even within the proposed development. Employment growth resulting from Project
implementation would result in a less than significant impacts because this increase is consistent
with projected employment growth for the City.
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Indirect Growth: The Project proposes the extension of Jefferson Street to the north and Avenue
62 to the east. The extension of these roads would be limited to providing access to the Project
property and would not serve adjoining lands upon which future development would be induced.
The Project property is secluded and is isolated between flood control and groundwater
management facilities and public lands.
The Project will require the development of an off-site 2.5 -acre electric power substation and up
to five off-site domestic water wells to support Project utility demand. The location of these off-
site utilities will occur east of the Project property, in an area that is planned for and has been
undergoing development over the past few decades. Accordingly, the Project is not anticipated to
indirectly induce growth.
The proposed Project does not include the demolition or conversion of existing residential dwelling
units to non-residential uses. The Project does not include the displacement of any residents within
the Project area. There will be no impact to the current population of the area as it is vacant land,
and the population will increase based on new development.
L. PUBLIC SERVICES.
i. Impact Police Services, Schools, Parks, and Other Facilities:
The Draft EIR analyzes the project's potential effects relating to the provision of public services,
including fire protection, police protection, schools, parks, and other public facilities (Draft EIR,
at pp. 4.14-12 — 4.14-18). The project will add residents, workers, and visitors to the project site,
which will cause incremental increases in the demand for these public services.
ii. Finding Regarding Impact to Police Services, School, Parks and Other
Facilities:
The City Council finds that the project's impacts on public services, including police services,
schools, parks, and other public facilities will be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Findings:
Police: At current staffing levels, the Project's added population would result in a city-wide ratio
of 1.19 officers per resident, which exceeds the 1 per 1,000 generally acceptable ratio. Based on
discussion with the City Police Department there are adequate facilities and staffing sufficient to
serve the Project (Draft EIR pg. 4.14-14). The Project would also be required to comply with
Development Impact Fees in place at the time of construction. The current DIF fee for detached
single-family residential is $9,380, which the City documented is adequate to mitigate any
significant impacts to public facilities from new development. Payment of these fees goes towards
the funding of public facilities including but not limited to fire stations, equipment, park and
recreation facilities, major thoroughfares and bridges and traffic signalization. In addition, the
Project property will generate transient occupancy and sales tax revenue that the City can use to
fund additional officers and other personnel to increase staffing levels for the police services
provided to the Project property and Citywide. The impact to police services will be less than
significant.
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Schools: As described in the Draft EIR, with payment of the applicable City Development Impact
Fees (DIF) and statutory school developer fees, the project will not have any significant project -
specific or cumulative adverse effects on public services. Specifically, the project is required to
pay the City's DIF in the amount in effect at the time of construction (Draft EIR at p. 4.14-16).
These fees are used by the City to fund additional public facilities, including fire stations, police
cars and facilities, parks, public buildings, and traffic improvements.
Parks: -Pursuant to the La Quinta Municipal Code (Section 13.48.050), the City goal is to provide
a minimum of 3.0 acres of usable parkland per 1,000 residents. Section 13.48.050 requires usable
parkland area per resident be determined by calculating the Project -generated population using the
people per household (pph) identified in the U.S. Census. Currently, the City exceeds its level of
service and the amount of parkland required by the Quimby Act, and new residents would not
significantly impact park facilities. The Project includes approximately 23.5 acres of private
parkland for the residents of the Project property, and approximately 27.2 acres of public parkland.
According to the U.S. Census, the pph in the City of La Quinta is 2.55. With this 2.55 pph, it can
be assumed that the Project would result in 3,060 residents (1,200 units multiplied by 2.55). The
Project property will provide 7.68 acres of private parkland per 1,000 residents, and 8.89 acres of
public parkland per 1,000 residents, for a combined total of 15.7 acres of parkland per 1,000
residents (in compliance with Section 13.48.050). The Project property would provide
approximately 15.7 acres of park land per 1,000 residents, therefore exceeding the City's
Municipal Code policy of 3.0 acres per 1,000 residents. The Project will also be required to comply
with the City's Development Impact Fees which includes a Park and Recreation fee and would be
required to either dedicate public parkland or pay in -lieu fees per the Quimby Act. The Project will
also be required to comply with the City's Development Impact Fees which includes a Park and
Recreation fee and would be required to either dedicate public parkland or pay in -lieu fees per the
Quimby Act. Impacts are expected to be less than significant.
Other Facilities: The Project could generate an additional 3,250 residents at full buildout. This
would be an increase of 7.9 percent of the City's current (2022) population of 37,860 and still
below the projected 2035 City population forecast of 46,297. Residents and resort guests will
generate limited demand for increased municipal administrative services for everyday activities,
including building permits, business licenses and short-term vacation rental permitting and
monitoring. However, these increases in demand for services will be low, given the mixed-use
nature of the Project, total potential increase in population, and fees and tax revenues generated by
the Project will offset any marginal increase in demand for these services.
M. RECREATION.
L Result in Deterioration of Parks or Require Construction or Expansion of
Recreational Facilities:
The Draft EIR analyzes the Project's potential effects on parks and recreation associated with the
implementation of the Project (Draft EIR, at pp. 4.15-9 — 4.15-11). The project will add residents,
workers, and visitors to the project site, which will cause incremental increases in the demand for
the City's recreational facilities.
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ii. Finding Regarding Deterioration of Parks and Recreational Facilities:
The City Council finds that the project's impacts on recreational facilities will be less than
significant.
Facts in Support of Findings:
The La Quinta Municipal Code (Chapter 13.48) requires the provision of three (3) acres of
parkland set aside for each 1,000 residents. In order to calculate the number of parkland acres
required, the number of dwelling units in a new subdivision is multiplied by the average household
size (based on the latest U.S. Census information). Per the U.S. Census, the average household
size in La Quinta is 2.55 persons, which would result in a population of 3,060. Therefore, pursuant
to the La Quinta Municipal Code build -out of the proposed Project would require a total of 9.18
acres of parkland.
The Project proposes private and public recreational uses including neighborhood and community
parks, trails, and a central private spine trail that bisects the residential areas of the property will
be accessible to the Project residents. Additionally, an approximately 5 -mile -long public Grand
Loop Trail will be developed around the perimeter of the Project site and will be accessible to the
public from Avenue 62 and separated from the proposed planning areas by perimeter fencing.
Pedestrian walkways, strolling trails, and an intra -connector trail will be located throughout the
site, in addition to private picnic tables and barbeques. These private facilities occupy
approximately 23.5 acres of the Project. The public golf practice facilities (including golf academy,
driving range, and putting course), and staging facilities for the public regional interpretive trail
will encompass approximately 27.2 acres of the Project. Thus, the Project will provide 7.68 acres
of private parkland per 1,000 residents, and 8.89 acres of public parkland per 1,000 residents, for
a combined total of 16.57 acres of parkland per 1,000 residents (in compliance with Section
13.48.050). The Project would provide approximately 16.57 acres of park land per 1,000 residents,
thereby exceeding both the City's Municipal Code policy of 3.0 acres per 1,000 residents and the
5 acres per 1,000 residents goal set out in the General Plan GOAL PR -1.
In accordance with the Quimby Act all new development and redevelopment projects will be
required to pay development impact fees directed towards the preservation, expansion and
maintenance with the City's recreational parks and facilities, and contribute to new parkland
acquisition. Additionally, the City of La Quinta has established Development Impact Fees (DIF)
for Parks/Recreation and Park Maintenance Facilities that apply to residential projects only. The
DIF for Parks/Recreation is currently $2,106 per dwelling unit for Single Family Detached, and
$1,794 per dwelling unit for Single Family Attached, according to the City's Development Impact
Fee Study, adopted February 2020. New residential developments, including the proposed Project,
would be required to pay the most up-to-date development impact fees to existing parks and City.
The payment of the fees will assure that new park expansion is funded and assists in maintaining
consistency with Policy PR -1.2 of the City of La Quinta General Plan (Parks, Recreation and Trails
Element Goals, Policies and Programs).
As previously stated, while Project impacts are expected to be less than significant, the Project's
payment of Quimby Act Fees and City DIF would constitute a net benefit for City and regional
parks and recreation facilities.
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The proposed recreational facilities are designed as an integral part of the overall Travertine
design, and will not result in any significant adverse physical effects on the environment. The
proposed community and neighborhood parks would be developed following sound engineering
and design standards for park facilities, recreation and open space amenities. The construction of
Project design features associated with recreational uses are anticipated to have short-term
construction impacts associated with construction -related air quality, energy, greenhouse gas
emissions, hazards, hydrology and water quality, noise, and transportation. However, these
construction impacts would result in less than significant impacts.
N. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS.
i. Require or Result in Construction of New or Expanded Facilities for Water,
Wastewater, Drainage or Utilities, the Construction of Which May Cause
Significant Environmental Effects:
The Draft EIR analyzes the construction of new or expanded facilities for water, wastewater,
drainage, and utilities, and whether the construction of such facilities would have any significant
adverse effect.
Water: Currently, domestic water lines exist in the intersection of Avenue 60/Madison Street and
the intersection of Avenue 62/Monroe Street. The existing line at Monroe Street and Avenue 62 is
24 inches, and the line at Madison and Avenue 60 is 30 inches. During Construction Phase 1, water
lines will be extended into the Project to support construction activities. The proposed water
system for the site would consist of a 12 -inch water line connecting to the existing Avenue
60/Madison Street and Monroe Street/Avenue 62 water lines. The 12 -inch water lines will connect
to the existing infrastructure and travel south under Madison Street EVA extension, and west under
Avenue 62. Twelve -inch and smaller lines will be installed throughout the Project property
creating a network to serve the individual developments. Precise locations, alignments, and sizes
of water service facilities will be determined at the Tentative and Final Map stage of development,
per City and CVWD regulations and standards. Once the Project site is connected to the existing
water lines, the Project's domestic water demand would be accommodated by CVWD. The Project
will be connected to and served by CVWD's water distribution system.
In addition to the Project's connection to the existing CVWD water lines, the Project will construct
two CVWD water tanks and booster stations to store water at elevations necessary for the
prescribed pressure zones. The water tanks are proposed to be located in the southwest property
corner in order to provide the site with adequate domestic water and water pressure. The two water
tanks with a storage capacity of 600,000 gallons and 2,650,000 gallons, identified as the "upper"
and "lower" tanks (respectively). These water reservoirs and associated booster stations are
proposed to convey well water and store it at elevations that provide required water pressure to
service the site. The upper tank would be located at an elevation of 425 feet, while the lower tank
would be located at an elevation of 335 feet. The water reservoir locations, including related
facilities (service roadway, underground pipelines, etc.) are subject to review and approval by the
USFWS, CVWD, and the CVCC. Both water tanks proposed onsite will be designed and
developed in compliance with CVWD's Development Design Manual and included in Phase A
Grading stage (grading of the southern portion of the site) and operable prior to lumber drop (EIR
pg. 4.18-11).
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Wastewater Facilities: CVWD has two wastewater treatment plants serving the City. For all land,
including that of the proposed Project, in the City and Sphere located south of Miles Avenue,
sewage is treated at the Mid -Valley Water Reclamation Plant (WRP-4), located on Avenue 62 and
Filmore Street southeast of the City. This plant has capacity to treat 9.5 mgd. The average annual
flow to this facility is approximately 4.75 mgd.
The closest wastewater infrastructure to the Project site is located at the Monroe Street and Avenue
62 intersection. The Project proposes to extend CVWD sewer mains west of this point of
connection to the project site via 18 -inch sewer mains. Similar to the water infrastructure, the 18 -
inch sewer lines will below located underground below the Avenue 62 roadway towards the project
site. Twelve -inch and 8 -inch lines will be installed throughout the project creating a network to
serve the individual developments.
Natural Gas Facilities: Natural gas will be provided to the project site by Southern California Gas
Company through the extension of existing natural gas infrastructure. Existing underground
natural gas lines are located near the Project property along Avenue 58 and Madison Street, north
and northeast of the Project property, respectively. A 4 -inch natural gas line is located at the
northern side of Avenue 58. A 4 -inch natural gas line travels along Madison Street until
approximately 425 feet south of the Madison Street and Avenue 58 intersection. At this location,
the gas lines enter the Andalusia Country Club property, northeast of the Project site, and
terminates at the southwestern corner of the Andalusia property (Draft EIR pg 4.18-20).
Telecommunication Facilities: The Project property is located within the service areas of Frontier
and Spectrum for telecommunications. The Project will be able to tie into the existing cable, gas
and telecommunications lines, located along Avenue 58 and Madison Street.
ii. Sufficiency of Water Supplies:
To determine the adequacy of available water supplies to serve the proposed Project and
reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years, the Draft
EIR incorporates information from the WSA/WSV approved by CVWD as required by Section
15155 of the CEQA Guidelines (Draft EIR, Appendix N.1 and N.2). CVWD will be the public
water supplier for the project with the source of domestic (potable) water supply for the project
being the Indio Subbasin via CVWD's potable water distribution system. CVWD approved a
WSA/WSV providing an assessment and verification of the availability of sufficient water supplies
during normal, single -dry, and multiple -dry years over a 20 -year projection period to meet the
projected demands of the project, in addition to existing and planned future water demands of
CVWD as required by the Water Code. The project's total water demand is projected to be 867.47 -
acre feet per year (AFY), which accounts for approximately 0.45 percent of the total projected
growth in water demand by 2040 presented in the 2015 Urban Water Management Plan (See Draft
EIR, at p. 4.18-23).
iii. Wastewater Treatment System Capacity:
CVWD provides sanitary sewer service to the project, and the capacity of CVWD's wastewater
treatment facilities are addressed in the Draft EIR at pp. 4.18-3 and 4.18-24. Project flows would
be delivered to CVWD's Wastewater Reclamation Plant No. 4 (WR -P-4), located in Thermal.
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WRP-4 has a plant capacity of 9.5 mgd. The annual average flow to this facility is approximately
4.75 MGD (5,300) AFY. Future flows could reach 34,500 AFY by 2045 without additional
conservation.
iv. Generate Excess Solid Waste:
As described on pages 4.18-24 of the Draft EIR, Cal -Recycle data indicates the Badlands Disposal
site has 7,800 cubic yards of remaining capacity, the El Sobrante Landfill has a remaining capacity
of 143,977,170 tons of solid waste, and Lamb Canyon Disposal has a remaining solid waste
capacity of 19,242,950 cubic yards.
V. Comply with Statutes and Regulations Related to Solid Waste:
The project is required to comply with the mandatory commercial and residential recycling
requirements of Assembly Bill 341 and the Cal Green requirement for a construction waste
management plan that includes diversion of at least 50% of construction and demolition materials
from landfills, through recycling and/or reuse (Draft EIR, at p. 4.18-25).
Vi. Findings Regarding New and Expanded Utilities, Water Supplies, Wastewater
Treatment System Capacity, and Solid Waste:
The City Council finds that the Project's impacts concerning utilities and service systems will be
less than significant. The City Council finds that the new and expanded utilities facilities to be
constructed as part of the project, including the need for a new electrical substation, and water and
sewer line extensions, will not have any significant adverse effects. The City Council further finds
that there are sufficient water supplies available to serve the Project and all reasonably foreseeable
future development, as well as all existing uses within the Indio Subbasin, during normal, dry, and
multiple dry years, and further finds that the project's impacts relating to water use are less than
significant. The City Council also finds that there is adequate capacity in CVWD's wastewater
treatment system and Riverside County Department of Waste Resources' landfills to meet the
project's wastewater and solid waste demands and finds that the project will comply with all
applicable solid waste statutes, policies, and guidelines. Finally, the City Council finds that the
Project will not have any new or substantially more severe impacts than analyzed and disclosed in
the Draft EIR.
Facts in Support of Findings:
Require or Result in Construction of New or Expanded Facilities for Water, Wastewater,
Drainage or Utilities.
Water: As determined on pages 4.18-10 through 4.18-13, the proposed water improvements would
not result in a significant affect to CVWD water facilities, and once connected to the CVWD water
lines, CVWD will have sufficient water to accommodate the proposed Project. Extension of water
lines will have less than significant impacts on expanded water services because the physical
expansion will occur within the existing disturbed areas of Madison Street and Avenue 62. Onsite
expansion will not result in significant environmental effects to CVWD's water infrastructure
because they will be developed in compliance with CVWD's existing standards.
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CVWD requires the construction of up to five wells and associated improvements at the off-site
utility field at buildout of the Project. The number of well sites necessary to serve the Project has
been determined in consultation with CVWD. The initial number of well sites based on the total
acreage of the Project is equivalent to up to five well sites at maximum. The final number of well
sites that will actually be needed to serve the site will be determined and incorporated into a
development agreement between CVWD and the developer based on extenuating circumstances
for providing alternative means and measures of water service to not only the Project property, but
to the region. The process for acquisition of well sites will be done by a private purchase by the
developer, where the environmental clearance coincident with the Project will be generic for all
typical well sites located within CVWD's jurisdiction. The off-site well sites will be purchased by
the developer and ultimately dedicated to CVWD. One off-site well will be constructed during the
Grading Phase A stage within the identified utility field area north and east of the Project property.
The developer must submit the location of the well sites to CVWD for approval. The well sites
should be fully improved with exterior low -maintenance landscaping, 8 -foot -high block walls, and
a 20 -foot -wide concrete driveway, access gates, curbs and gutters, 12 -inch minimum diameter
water pipeline stub which connects to the domestic water system, power and telephone service,
and blow -off water drainage facilities. If the blow -off water will be retained within the site, then
the minimum size of the site shall be 0.75 acres. If a retention basin is proposed outside the well
site, then a minimum 0.50 -acre site is acceptable; however, the maintenance of the pipeline to the
retention basin and the retention basin itself, shall be the responsibility of the property owner. A
civil site plan must be submitted for final approval prior to construction of the above requirements.
The development of the five wells will provide water to future developments within CVWD's
service area. All future wells developed on- and off-site would be consistent with the CVWD
Development Design Manual (Chapter 5.6, Well Site and Well Pumping Plant Criteria).
Construction impacts associated with the installation of the on-site and off-site connections are
expected to be confined to trenching and related construction activities would be temporary and
limited. All improvements related to water service will be coordinated in accordance with the City
(if in La Quinta jurisdictional boundaries), Riverside County (if in unincorporated area), and
CVWD standards which would preclude any interruptions in existing service of the surrounding
properties.
The Project will not require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water
treatment facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental
effects. Therefore, impacts to the existing water infrastructure would be less than significant.
Wastewater Facilities: CVWD's WRP-4 has capacity to treat 9.5 mgd. The average annual flow
to this facility is approximately 4.75 mgd. The proposed Project property is estimated to generate
wastewater at 261,200 gallons per day (gpd) or 0.27 mgd, which is 2.7 percent of the plant's
capacity. Given the current surplus capacity of 4.75 million gallons per day, CVWD has indicated
that new wastewater treatment facilities are not required as a result of the proposed development.
Precise locations, alignments, and sizes of sewer service facilities will be determined at the
Tentative and Final Map stage of development, per City and CVWD regulations and standards.
Once the project site is connected to the existing sewer lines, the project's wastewater would be
accommodated by the CVWD. The Project will be connected to and served by the CVWD's
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wastewater system. The conceptual on-site sewer facilities and improvements are shown on
Exhibit 4.18-2, Conceptual Sewer Plan (EIR pg. 4.18-16).
Overall, CVWD has sufficient treatment capacity to treat wastewater generated by the proposed
Project, and the Project is not anticipated to require or result in the relocation or construction of
new or expanded wastewater treatment facilities, the construction or relocation of which could
cause significant environmental effects. The proposed Project's impact on wastewater treatment
systems would be less than significant.
Storm Water Facilities: Pursuant to the project -specific Drainage Master Plan (Draft EIR,
Appendix J.3), the project provides sufficient on-site storm water retention to retain flows from
the 100 -year storm event, including flows coming onto the site from adjacent roadways, consistent
with City requirements. The Project will incorporate off-site flood protection measures including
a combination of perimeter embankments, and drainage swales along the western and southern site
development boundaries, and improvements to the Guadalupe Creek Diversion Dikes on the north
side. The conceptual drainage plan for the Travertine development ensures that all residents of the
community, as well as downstream facilities and properties, will be protected from the local
hydrologic conditions. To address off-site drainage conditions that interface with and currently
pass through the Project site, the DMP proposes a flood protection system, which requires flood
control barriers to direct off-site ephemeral drainage in a northerly and easterly direction, as it
interfaces with the western and southern edges of the project, respectively. An Operations and
Maintenance (O&M) Plan will be developed and implemented for the west and south banks and
include provisions to monitor and remove sediment along the west bank. The O&M Plan is
required as Mitigation Measure HWQ-1 and includes provisions to monitor and remove sediment
along the west bank to maintain pre -project conditions and will reduce off-site siltation and erosion
impacts to below a level of significance. (See G. Hydrology and Water Quality, i and iv, above,
discussing flood flows and ability to result in flood hazard, tsunami, and seiche zones, as well as
Section 4. 10, Hydrology and Water Quality, in the DEIR).
Onsite facilities will be managed by the project specific Water Quality Management Plan and its
approved Maintenance Operations agreement.
Electrical Facilities: The undergrounding of the onsite power lines will not result in significant
environmental impacts since utility undergrounding will occur throughout the site. The Project
will also underground the existing distribution lines along Avenue 62. The undergrounding of the
offsite power lines will take place in the existing right-of-way on the north side of Avenue 62,
which is an improved road. Onsite electrical power will be underground.
The off-site substation required for the Travertine development will be constructed during the
Grading Phase A stage. As discussed throughout the DEIR, the precise location of the future IID
substation has not yet been determined and its impacts are analyzed at a programmatic level in this
DEIR. The future substation must meet the requirements of IID and will be studied with metrics
provided by the utility. The location of the 2.5 -acre site will be within 2 -miles of the Project's
northern and northeastern boundaries. IID has indicated that distribution lines to the Project site
will be on the order of 16 kV or larger. Lines are expected to be located within public street rights
of way and are expected to be underground (Draft EIR pg. 4.18-20).
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Natural Gas Facilities: Construction impacts associated with the installation of natural gas
connections are expected to be confined to trenching in order to extend them to the Project
property. Prior to ground disturbance, Project contractors would notify and coordinate with
SoCalGas to identify the locations and depths of all existing gas lines and avoid disruption of gas
service. The Project is not anticipated to require or result in the relocation or construction of new
natural gas facilities which could result in significant environmental effects. The Project's impact
to natural gas infrastructure will be less than significant.
Telecommunications: The line extension will go southerly on Madison and will enter the site on
both Avenue 62 west and Madison south of Avenue 62. Any surface disturbance will be stabilized
following installation activities. The Project will not require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded telecommunication facilities. Impacts would be less than
significant.
Sufficiency of Water Supplies
Based on the information, analysis, and findings documented in the water WSA for the Project,
there is substantial evidence to support a determination that there will be sufficient water supplies
to meet the demands of the Project, as well as for future demands of the Project plus all forecasted
demands in the next 20 years.
CVWD's groundwater replenishment programs establish a comprehensive and managed effort to
eliminate overdraft. These programs allow CVWD to maintain the groundwater subbasin as its
primary water supply and to recharge the groundwater subbasin as its other supplies are available.
CVWD has purchased 115,250 AF of additional annual SWP Table A amount since 2002.
Additionally, the City has adopted a water -efficient landscape ordinance equal to or more stringent
than CVWD's (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 the proposed Project reduces water
demand to meet target demands. The overall development will be expected to implement water
conservation measures to reduce impacts to the public water supply per the CVWD UWMP.
Therefore, impacts to water supplies are less than significant.
Wastewater Treatment System Capacity
The proposed Project is estimated to generate wastewater at 261,200 gpd, or 0.27 mgd, which is
2.7 percent of the plant's capacity. Effluent from WR -P-4 is not currently suitable for water
recycling due to the lack of tertiary treatment. However, CVWD plans to add tertiary treatment
and reuse effluent from this plant in the future as development occurs. Per CVWD's UWMP,
WRP-4 has the potential to be upgraded with a recycled water program with eventual construction
of tertiary treatment, plant expansion, and conveyance facilities. The Project will undergo
additional review by CVWD and City staff to ensure compliance with all current and applicable
wastewater treatment requirements. Therefore, the Project is not expected to exceed CVWD's
wastewater capacity demand and impacts are less than significant (Draft EIR pg. 4.18-24).
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Generate Excess Solid Waste
Using the annual generation factors, including a residential solid waste generation factor of 0.41
tons per dwelling unit from the Riverside County General Plan EIR No. 521, adopted in 2015, and
2.4 tons per 1,000 square feet for the commercial operation, the Project could generate up to 894.48
tons per year of solid waste at full buildout, as indicated in the table below.
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 given time, for future landfill disposal. The 15 -year projection of disposal capacity
is prepared each year 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 the
remaining disposal capacity of countywide waste facilities in the year 2024 is 28,561,626 tons,
and therefore, no additional capacity is needed to dispose of countywide waste through 2024.
In addition, all future development would be required to comply with mandatory commercial and
residential 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, impacts relative to solid waste are
less than significant. (Draft EIR, at pg. 4.18-24 to 4.18-25).
Comply with Statutes and Regulations Related to Solid Waste.
The project will comply with all applicable solid waste statutes, policies and guidelines. All
development, including the proposed Project, is required to comply with the mandatory
commercial and multi -family recycling requirements of Assembly Bill 341. The California Green
Building Standards Code (CalGreen) applies to all cities in California, and mandates that all new
building construction develop a waste management plan that includes diversion of at least 50
percent of construction and demolition material from landfills, through recycling and/or reuse.
Prior to applying for a permit, the contractor or property owner must submit a Construction and
Demolition Debris Management Plan to the City's Environmental Coordinator. There are no
impacts relative to applicable solid waste regulations (Draft EIR, at pg. 4.18-25).
O. WILDFIRE.
i. Substantially Impair an Adopted Emergency Response Plan or Evacuation
Plan:
The Project's Fire Master Plan was compared to the City of La Quinta's Emergency Operations
Plan (EOP). The La Quinta EOP addresses emergency management within four defined phases
including (1) Preparedness, (2) Response, (3) Recovery, and (4) Mitigation.
ii. Exacerbate Wildfire Risks and Pollutant Concentrations:
The physical characteristics of the Project site indicate a low probability for wildfire risk due to
the sparse vegetation and topographic conditions. Although the Project site and surrounding areas
do not provide conditions conducive to wildfires, the Project proposes open space areas and fuel
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breaks which will further reduce the likelihood that the Project would be impacted by fires or
wildfires.
iii. Require Installation or Maintenance of Infrastructure that will Exacerbate
Fire Risk:
The Project property is currently undeveloped and vacant and is not served by roads, electrical
utilities, natural gas utilities, water, and other utilities or infrastructure.
iv. Expose People or Structures to Significant Risks including Downslope,
Downstream Flooding or Landslides, as a Result of Runoff, Post -Fire Slope
Instability, or Drainage Changes:
The existing vegetation communities onsite include creosote scrub, and desert scrub, generally on
loosely packed or sandy soils. These conditions do not support dense vegetation growth. Therefore,
fuels for fires are not present or is very limited.
V. Findings Regarding Impairment of Emergency Response Plan, Wildfire Risk,
Fire Risk, and Downslope and Downstream Flooding or Landslides:
The City Council finds that the wildfire impacts will be less than significant.
Facts in Support of Findings:
The Draft EIR analyzes the Project's Fire Master Plan to the EOP's four phases of emergency
management (i.e., Preparedness, Response, Recovery, and Mitigation). Consistent with the City
EOP, the Fire Master Plan and outline actions that prepare, respond, recover, and address hazards
involved with fires and wildfires. Thus, Project construction and operational activities would not
substantially impair the City's adopted EOP.
Although the physical characteristics of the Project site indicate a low probability for wildfire risk
due to the sparse vegetation and topographic conditions, the Project will implement fuel breaks
with the use of Open Space Natural land uses between and wildland and mountain slopes. The
proposed Project will establish a buffer of open space areas adjacent to the slopes of Coral
Mountain and Martinez Rockslide. Habitable structures are not proposed adjacent to the toe of
slope of the neighboring mountains. Planning Area 20, located at the southern portion of the site,
occupies approximately 301.2 acres adjacent to the Martinez Rockslide landform. Planning Area
20 is designated for Open Space Natural land uses and will separate the proposed habitable
structures by approximately 950 feet. Additionally, approximately 250 feet of open space areas
will separate the proposed structures from Coral Mountain to the north.
The edge/transitional landscape treatment that surrounds the community is native untouched
desert, and then a band of transitional landscape planting will occur that will have native plant
reseeding and native tree planting. This edge/transitional planting area will vary in width according
to location. In development areas where private homeowner parcels and public gathering areas are
adjacent to the Conservation Area, the buffer would be a minimum width of 74 feet. These areas
will be landscaped with native vegetation, which will link and extend the character of the
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undisturbed desert areas surrounding the Project to the disturbed interior of the Project. Dense
vegetation is not proposed in this area. As such, the edge conditions landscaped with native plants
will act as defensible space (i.e., areas with little vegetative fuel for wildfires), separating the
Project's developable planning areas from the open space areas surrounding the Project. Overall,
wildfires and their effects are not expected to affect the Project site due to the Project's open space
areas and proposed fuel breaks as part of the Project design, as well as the lack of vegetative fuels
in the surrounding area.
The proposed roads, fuel breaks, water infrastructure, and electrical infrastructure are not
The development of roads typically involves the removal of vegetation along the proposed road,
which removes wildfire fuel, and thus, does not exacerbate fire risk. Additionally, roads could be
dirt or gravel (during construction), and asphalt (during construction and operation). Additionally,
asphalt and all-weather access roads will allow public and emergency access to the Project during
construction and operation. The proposed roads will not exacerbate fire risks.
CVWD establishes guidelines in their Development Design Manual (May 2022) to ensure that
water infrastructure is reviewed and developed to CVWD standards. The Development Design
Manual requires review from fire services prior to approval of the Project, and establishes
regulations that ensure projects within their service area are equipped with fire -reducing systems
(such as fire hydrants, sprinklers, etc.). The Project shall comply with the development standards
of CVWD's Design Manual. Therefore, the Project's compliance with CVWD's established
regulations will ensure that water infrastructure would not exacerbate fire risk.
An off-site substation will be required for the Travertine Project and will be constructed during
the Construction Phase 1 stage. The 2.5 -acre site required for the substation will be located east of
Dike 4 and within the off-site utility field. All off-site parcels required for utilities will be chosen
to fit the requirements of IID consistent with their Wild Fire Mitigation Plan 2020 — 2022, which
states that IID electric facilities are to be designed and constructed meeting or exceeding relevant
federal, State, and industry standards. The California Public Utilities Commission's (CPUC)
General Order (GO) 95 is a key industry standard for design and construction for overhead
electrical facilities. Additionally, IID monitors and follows, as appropriate, the National Electric
Safety Code. Additional fire hazard reduction measures include: no new power lines in high or
extreme fire threat areas; vegetation management and inspections; and public safety power shutoff.
These measures, as well as additional measures outlined in the Wild Fire Mitigation Plan 2020 -
2022, reduce the risk of the infrastructure -exacerbating wildfires.
As a part of project design, the areas adjacent to Coral Mountain and Martinez Rockslide will be
preserved as Open Space Recreational and Natural lands. This will ensure habitable structures are
removed from the slopes of these mountains from rock fall or landslide hazards by Project open
space buffers. Buildings are proposed to be located 250 feet south of slope of Coral Mountain. A
301.2 -acre buffer area of undisturbed natural lands is proposed at the southern portion of the
Project, separating the proposed residential and resort areas from the slopes of the Martinez
Rockslide by approximately 950 feet. Additionally, the slopes of the surrounding mountains do
not contain dense vegetation that would result in wildfires, and potentially associated landslides.
Therefore, the proposed Project, and the development area within the Project would not be
impacted by wildfires and post -fire slope instabilities.
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VII. FINDINGS REGARDING IMPACTS DETERMINED TO HAVE NO IMPACT
The Final EIR also determined, based upon substantial evidence in the record, the following
impacts associated with the project result in no impacts and no mitigation is required. The City
hereby adopts the findings, analysis, and conclusions regarding these potential impacts set forth in
the Final EIR, and incorporates the same herein by this reference.
A. MINERAL RESOURCES.
i. Effects on the loss of availability of a known mineral resource or locally
important mineral resource:
The Coachella Valley contains valued mineral resources due to the region's highly active geologic
nature. Mineral resources found throughout the region include sand, gravel, crushed stone, copper,
limestone, and tungsten. Many of these resources are important for common construction projects
including asphalt, concrete, road base, stucco, and plaster. Sand and gravel have been transported
by wind and rain into the Valley from surrounding mountains over millennia.
California requires that mineral resources be identified and that the mining of identified resources
be protected. According to Figure OS -6 of the City of La Quinta County General Plan, the Project
site is located in an MRZ-3 area. Lands that fall under the MRZ-3 designation make up a small
portion of La Quinta. The MRZ-3 designation is found only in the southwestern portion of the
City, including along the Coral Reef Mountains and within the Cove area. Aside from the
development that already exists within the Cove, the majority of land in the MRZ-3 zone is
designated as open space. The La Quinta General Plan Environmental Impact Report (LQGP EIR)
states that undeveloped sites located in MRZ-3 zones in the City are surrounded by urban
development and mineral extraction activities are incompatible and unlikely on the remaining
vacant parcels. The project site is currently designated for residential and golf course uses, and has
been since the 1995 Travertine and Green Specific Plan. Therefore, the LQGP EIR concludes that
development of areas within these land use categories will not result in the loss of availability of
locally important mineral resource considered valuable to the region and state and does not result
in the loss of availability of mineral resource recovery sites.
ii. Finding Regarding Mineral Resources:
The City Council finds that the Project does not result in impacts to mineral resources, since the
site is not recognized as a mineral resource recovery site delineated in the City of LQGP, General
Plan EIR or resource maps prepared pursuant to SMARA. No mitigation measures are necessary.
Facts in Support of Finding:
The project site is not recognized as a mineral resource recovery site delineated in the City of
LQGP, General Plan EIR or resource maps prepared pursuant to SMARA. The land has for many
years been designated for residential and golf course development, and not for mineral extraction.
Therefore, the proposed project will not 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, and will not result in
the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local
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general plan, specific plan or other land use plan. For the above reasons, the proposed project will
not result in impacts to mineral resources.
VIII. FINDINGS REGARDING ALTERNATIVES ANALYZED IN THE EIR.
The State CEQA Guidelines section 15126.6(a)(1) requires the discussion of a "a reasonable range
of alternatives to a project, or the location of a project, which would feasibly attain most of the
basic objectives of the project but would avoid or substantially lessen any of the significant effects
of the project, and evaluate the comparative merits of the alternatives." The Guidelines state that
the "range of potential alternatives to the proposed project shall include those that could feasibly
accomplish most of the basic objectives of the project and could avoid or substantially lessen one
or more of the significant effects" (Section 15126(c)). The Final EIR evaluated a reasonable range
of alternatives to the proposed Project. These alternatives are:
Alternative 1: No Project/No Build
Alternative 2: No Project/Originally Approved SP
Alternative 3: Phase 1 (1 A and 1 B) Only
When a lead agency has determined that a proposed project will still cause one or more significant
environmental effects that cannot be substantially lessened or avoided after the adoption of all
feasible mitigation measures, prior to approving the project as mitigated, the agency must consider
the environmentally superior alternatives identified in the EIR and find that they are infeasible
before approving the project. (Pub. Resources Code, section 21081(a)(2); CEQA Guidelines
section 15091(a)(3).)
An alternative may be rejected if it is "infeasible," does not avoid significant environmental
impacts, or if it fails to achieve most of the basic project objectives identified within the EIR.
(CEQA Guidelines section 15126.6(c). "Feasible" means capable of being accomplished in a
successful manner within a reasonable period of time, taking into account economic,
environmental, legal, social, and technological factors. (Pub. Resources Code, § 21061.1; CEQA
Guidelines, § 15364.) Other considerations, such as practicality, may also provide the basis for an
infeasibility finding. (Pub. Resources Code, § 21081, subd. (a)(3); California Native Plant Society
v. City of Santa Cruz (2009) 177 Cal.AppAth 957, 1002.) Infeasibility encompasses notions of
desirability, to the extent that desirability is based on a reasonable balancing of the relevant
economic, environmental, social, or technological factors. .
The EIR identifies Alternative 1 and Alternative 3 as the environmentally superior alternatives.
Alternative 1: No Project/No Build
CEQA Guidelines Section 15126.6 (e) requires an EIR to include a "No Project" alternative. The
purpose of describing and analyzing a No Project alternative is to allow decision makers to
compare the impacts of approving the proposed project with the impacts of not approving the
proposed project. Under the No Project/No Build Alternative ("Alternative 1"), the project would
remain in its current and existing vacant condition. The existing visual character and visual
resources would remain the same, and none of the significant impacts of the project would occur.
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Finding and Facts in Support of Finding
Although the No Project/No Build Alternative would be considered an environmentally superior
alternative in that it would avoid the significant adverse effects of the Project; the City Council of
the City of La Quinta rejects the No Project/No Build Alternative for the following reasons:
1. The No Project/No Build Alternative is inconsistent with the General Plan, insofar
as this alternative would not implement the General Plan's land uses for the
property, which the City Council considers inconsistent with its vision for City land
use policy under the General Plan.
2. The No Project/No Build Alternative does not meet three of the five Project
objectives identified in the EIR to the same degree as the proposed Project. In
particular, Alternative 1 would not result in the development of a mixed-use master
planned community, facility the attainment of the City's Regional Housing Needs
Assessment (RHNA) targets for new residential construction, or result in the
development of a project that will generate sustainable, diversified increase to the
City's tax revenue stream, and that is successful for both the City and the master
developer.
3. The Project as proposed will create a private residential community with resort and
golf training facility and a variety of interrelated and mutually supportive
commercial and recreational land uses that will generate transient occupancy and
sales tax revenues in order to enhance the City's economic base and long-term
financial stability, which are significant public benefits that will not be realized
under the No Project/No Build Alternative.
4. The Project site remaining in its existing condition is not considered the most likely
or legally feasible outcome if the proposed Project is not approved, due to the
existing entitlements associated with the 1995 Travertine Specific Plan, which
would remain in effect if the Project is disapproved.
The City Council therefore finds that the No Proj ect/No Build Alternative fails to meet the majority
of the Project objectives and is otherwise infeasible, and rejects it.
Alternative 2: No Project/Originally Approved SP Alternative
Under this Alternative, the property would be developed under the existing Travertine Specific
Plan which was approved in 1995. This Alternative would develop approximately 909 acres
consisting of 2,300 dwelling units on 466.6 acres, general commercial uses on 10 acres, tourist
commercial uses such as a 500 -room resort/hotel a tennis club, private recreation in individual
developments on approximately 30.9 acres, open space recreational (36 -hole golf course facility)
on approximately 365.3 acres, major community facilities on 4.1 acres, and 12.2 acres of open
space natural land.
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Finding and Facts in Support of Finding
The City Council of the City of La Quinta rejects the No Project/Originally Approved SP
Alternative for the following reasons:
1. The No Project/Originally Approved SP Alternative does not meet three of the five
Project objectives to the same degree as the proposed Project. In particular,
Alternative 2 does not preserve and mitigate impacts to sensitive biological
resources to the same degree as the proposed Project and in a manner consistent
with current Federal, State, and local requirements, does not involve the
development of a project that will generate a diversified and sustainable increase in
the City's tax base as it relies on a larger percentage of residential uses than the
proposed Project, and is not designed to the enhanced degree of flooding and
hydrological risk protection that characterizes the proposed Project..
2. The No Project/Originally Approved Alternative would not avoid the proposed
Project's potentially significant impacts and would generally result in increased
impacts on the environment relative to the proposed Project, including increased
VMT, Air Quality, GHG, Energy, Utility and Services impacts due to the doubling
of residential traffic.
The City Council therefore finds the No Project/Originally Approved Alternative fails to meet the
majority of the Project objectives and is otherwise infeasible, and rejects it.
Alternative 3: Phase I Only Alternative
Phase 1 Only Alternative ("Alternative 3") would develop Phase 1 (A and B) of the subject
property, which includes 604 residential dwelling units on approximately 243.4 acres, a resort/golf
facility on approximately 46.2 acres, open space recreational on approximately 35.5 acres, and
open space natural uses on approximately 301.2 acres. Development of Alternative 3 would
include the westerly extension of Avenue 62. However, this Alternative would not develop the
southerly extension of Jefferson Street. Implementation of Alternative 3 would include a 46.2 -acre
resort/golf use, which would develop a golf training/practice facility with clubhouse and banquet
facilities. Alternative 3 would require a General Plan Amendment and Zone Change to allow the
land use and zoning changes, similar to the proposed Project.
Finding and Facts in Support of Finding
Although Alternative 3 would be considered an environmentally superior alternative in that it
would avoid the significant adverse effects of the Project, the City Council of the City of La Quinta
reject Alternative 3 for the following reasons:
Alternative 3 does not meet the majority of the Project objectives to the same degree as the
proposed Project, including developing a mixed-use master planned community, to include
varying housing densities and housing product types, as it would not include medium density
residential housing; facilitate the attainment of the City's RHNA targets for new residential
construction to the same degree as the proposed Project; or develop a project that will generate a
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sustainable, diversified increase to the City's tax revenue stream, resulting in a project that is
economically successful for the City as well as the master developer to the same degree as the
proposed Project. In particular, Alternative 3 would result in a substantial reduction of revenue to
the City's General Fund relative to the proposed Project.
The City Council therefore finds Alternative 3 fails to meet the majority of the Project objectives
to the same degree as the Project and is otherwise infeasible, and rejects it.
Additional Findings Regarding the Environmentally Superior Alternatives
A summary comparison of impacts associated with the project Alternatives is provided in the Draft
EIR in Table 7-5, Comparison of Alternatives to Project. Of the Alternatives considered in this
Draft EIR section, the No Project/No Build Alternative is environmentally superior to the other
Alternatives because this Alternative would avoid any impacts identified for the project or any
other alternative.
Although Alternative 1 is environmentally superior, it does not meet any of the objectives of the
proposed project because it would not involve any development of the site.
The CEQA Guidelines require that the EIR identify an environmentally superior alternative to the
project and "if the environmentally superior alternative is the `no project' alternative, the EIR shall
also identify an environmentally superior alternative among the other alternatives." CEQA
Guidelines Section 15126[e][2]. In general, the environmentally superior alternative minimizes
adverse impacts to the environment, while still achieving the basic project objectives.
Of the remaining alternatives, Alternative 3 (Phase 1 Only) would be the environmentally superior
alternative because it would result in lesser impacts in a number of resource areas and would reduce
or eliminate the significant and unavoidable impacts of the proposed Project relative to air quality
and greenhouse gas emissions. Alternative 3 does not meet the to the same degree as the proposed
project the objectives of facilitating the attainment of the City's Regional Housing Needs
Allocation targets for new residential construction; or of developing a project that will generate a
sustainable, diversified increase to the City's tax revenue stream, resulting in a project that is
economically successful for the City as well as the master developer. As a result, Alternative 3 is
rejected.
IX. STATEMENT OF OVERRIDING CONSIDERATIONS
Under CEQA Guidelines Section 15093, CEQA requires the decision-making agency to
balance, as applicable, the economic, legal, social, technological, or other benefits, including
region -wide or statewide environmental benefits, of a proposed project against its unavoidable
environmental risks when determining whether to approve the project. If the specific economic,
legal, social, technological, or other benefits, including region -wide or statewide environmental
benefits, of a proposed project outweigh the unavoidable adverse environmental effects, the
adverse environmental effects may be considered "acceptable."
As described in Section III of these Findings, the Project will have significant and
unavoidable impacts in the following areas:
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(1) under the CalEEMod modeling, the Project will generate regulated air pollutants
(VOCs) at a rate that exceeds the significance thresholds utilized in the EIR, and
therefore, would conflict with the implementation of the Air Quality Management
Plan;
(2) the Project will result in additional GHG emissions that exceed the quantitative
threshold of significance utilized in the EIR, and even with implementation of the
recommended mitigation measure requiring the purchase of carbon credits, this
effect is considered significant and unavoidable because the use of carbon credits
has not been established in the Coachella Valley area as effective mitigation for
residential and resort communities; and
(3) the Project will generate VMT that exceed the significance threshold utilized in the
EIR.
As permitted under CEQA Guideline 15093(b) the City Council of the City of La Quinta
adopts and makes this statement of overriding considerations concerning these unavoidable
significant impacts to explain why the Project's specific economic, legal, social, technological, or
other benefits, including region -wide or statewide environmental benefits, outweigh its
unavoidable impacts.
The Project site provides an appropriate location for the proposed residential, golf course
and commercial uses that will provide employment, housing, recreation, and increased property
and sales tax revenue opportunities for the City, its residents and visitors. The City Council of the
City of La Quinta finds that the Project's significant environmental impacts are acceptable when
balanced with the project's benefits. Each of the benefits cited below constitutes a separate and
independent basis that justifies approval of the project and outweighs the unavoidable adverse
environmental effects of approving the Project, and thus make the adverse environmental effects
acceptable. Thus, even in the absence of one or more of the reasons set forth below, the City has
determined that each remaining reason, or any combination of reasons, is a sufficient basis for
approving the Project, notwithstanding any significant and unavoidable impacts that may occur.
1. As documented in the Fiscal Impact Analysis prepared by The Natelson Dale
Group, Inc. (TNDG) dated July 27, 2023, at buildout, the Project will generate City
General Fund review of nearly $6.0 million per year, with a net positive impact of
approximately $2.0 million per year. A substantial component of Project revenues
($980,162 Resort and $2,162,625 Short Term Rental) derived from transient
occupancy tax (TOT) revenue for the City, which the City Council considers a
critical component of the Project. Without the TOT revenue from Short Term
Rentals, development of the Project would generate City general fund costs with
insufficient revenue to cover those additional costs.
2. The Project provides a complimentary mix of interrelated and mutually supportive
residential, commercial and recreational uses that create a private resort -like
community which minimizes GHG emissions and vehicle miles traveled to the
degree feasible through on-site Project design features and on-site and off-site
mitigation measures, including promoting walkability and non -motorized
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connectivity as an integral part of the Project design, establishing residential
neighborhoods that are linked through multi -use trails that connect neighborhoods,
open space, and parks throughout the Project.
3. The Project reduces the overall density of planned development for the site, while
adding to the diversity of housing and recreational amenities within the City, and
also maintaining low-density residential uses around the majority of the Project
perimeter that matches the surrounding residential communities.
4. The Project will contribute to both temporary and permanent employment and
economic growth opportunities in this portion of the City, which provides a
significant public benefit to the City and its residents. The Project would result in
direct employment -based population growth from the proposed mix of
employment -generating land uses, including planned resort recreational uses.
Project buildout has the potential to create approximately 250 part-time and full-
time jobs. These include hospitality commercial, retail sales, resort, and related
service jobs (VMT Evaluation, Urban Crossroads, Inc. Appendix M.2 of DEIR).
Businesses and transient occupancy tax generated from the Project provides funds
for the City to support City-wide improvements, which benefit the residents of the
City.
5. In addition to generating a recurring fiscal benefit to the City's General Fund, the
Project will contribute towards the funding of future infrastructure and public
infrastructure improvements within the City and surrounding area in the amount of
$11.6 million, including DIF fee contributions to a new fire station in the City and
improvements to the local and regional circulation system through the payment of
TUMF and DIF fees, and fair share contributions to multiple signalization projects
required as part of General Plan build out.
6. In addition to the benefits identified in items 1 through 5 above, the Project will
contribute nearly $7,000,000 toward development of a substation for the area of
south La Quinta to provide electricity to the Project and surrounding area. The
substation will be developed during Phase I of the project.
7. The Project will benefit the unique biological resources in the City and broader
Coachella Valley region by contributing substantial funding through payment of
the CVMSHCP Local Development Mitigation Fee in the amount of $ 2,242,007.50
to support CVCC's ongoing efforts to acquire and maintain essential habitat for
special status species, which will contribute to CVCC's ongoing efforts to protect
the Peninsular bighorn sheep and their habitat.
8. The Project will provide surplus parkland and recreation resources in the City of
La Quinta, including public golf practice facilities (including gold academy, driving
range and putting course), and staging facilities for the public regional interpretive
trail encompassing approximately 27.2 acres, amounting to 16.57 acres of parkland
per resident, thereby exceeding both the City's Municipal Code policy of 3.0 acres
per 1,000 residents and the 5 acres per 1,000 goal set out in the City General Plan.
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9. The Project will support and implement all eight of the guiding principles of the
City's 2035 General Plan, including:
(i) supporting "a fiscally sound community" that capitalizes on the City's
unique development opportunities;
(ii) supporting "a resort oriented community" that maintains and improves the
residential and golf opportunities in La Quinta, consistent with its reputation
as a top resort and recreational destination;
(iii) supporting "a neighborhood -oriented community" that strives to ensure that
existing and future housing for all residents continues to be diverse in type
and of high quality;
(iv) supporting "a conservation focused community" that promotes the efficient
use of water and energy resources through replacing the previously
approved golf course use on the site with current responsible water use
design concepts, a smaller footprint and incorporating integrated design
principles and state-of-the-art efficiency features to ensure an
environmentally sustainable development;
(v) supporting "a safe community" through development standards that
promote safe indoor and outdoor spaces in this gated community that will
provide on-site private security and provide substantial funding for
emergency services (both through payments of DIF and generation of TOT
and sale tax revenue); and
(vi) supporting "a full service community" that provides and maintains adequate
service levels and facilities for streets, water, sewer, storm drains and other
infrastructure, which here include privately owned and maintained streets
within the project as well as improvements to the City's arterial streets and
funding for areawide circulation system upgrades, as well as constructing
all required sewer, water, and storm drain infrastructure; and
(vii) supporting "a circulation minded community" that promotes and
encourages a broad range of transportation opportunities that reduce
impacts on the environment to the degree feasible by providing a
complimentary mix of residential, commercial, and recreational uses that
are interconnected through multi -modal roads, trails and paths that reduce
the length of vehicle trips and promote non -motorized travel.
The Project will pay substantial City Development Impact Fees and Quimby Act fees. The
implementation of this measure is assured and enforceable because it is included in the
Development Agreement and conditions of approval for the Specific Plan.
In light of the foregoing, and the information contained within the Final EIR and other portions of
the Project record of proceedings, the City Council concludes that implementation of the Project
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will result in the development of a unique project that provides substantial economic, legal, social,
technological, and other benefits, including region -wide or statewide environmental benefits, as
outlined above, which outweigh and make acceptable the significant, unavoidable environmental
impacts associated with the Project and, accordingly, adopts this Statement of Overriding
Considerations.
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X. FINDINGS REGARDING CERTIFICATION OF FINAL EIR
Pursuant to CEQA and the State CEQA Guidelines, the City Council of the City of La Quinta as
the lead agency under CEQA is responsible for certification of the EIR and therefore makes the
following findings:
1. The Final EIR was completed in compliance with CEQA and the State CEQA
Guidelines;
2. The Final EIR was presented to the City Council, which reviewed and considered
the information in the Final EIR prior to making its decision on the Project;
3. The certification of the Final EIR and the findings set forth herein reflect the City
Council's and the City's independent judgment and analysis in its capacity as the
CEQA Lead Agency for the Project; and
4. The City Council adopts the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
(Attachment A) to reduce or avoid the significant and mitigable impacts of the
Project to the extent feasible.
5. The City Council finds that the Final EIR, properly evaluated the Project's
potentially significant cumulative impacts based on General Plan buildout, and that
this analysis included all past, present and probable future projects in the project
vicinity that could cause or contribute to such significant cumulative effects.
6. The City Council finds that the additional information and evidence submitted after
release of the Draft EIR and prior to certification of the Final EIR, including
responses to comments on the Draft EIR does not constitute "significant new
information," as defined in CEQA Guidelines Section 15088.5, but rather, merely
clarifies and amplifies the information provided in the Draft EIR.
(i) By these Findings, the City ratifies, adopts and incorporates the analysis,
explanation, findings, responses to comments and conclusions of the Final
EIR. In addition, the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program, and
the mitigation measures specified therein, as well as the project design
features identified in the Draft EIR, are hereby approved and adopted, and
shall be fully enforceable through the Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting
Program, , as well as permit conditions, agreements or other measures. Any
finding required to be made by the City shall be deemed made, regardless
of where it appears in this document. All of the language included in this
document constitutes findings by the City, whether or not any particular
sentence or clause includes a statement to that effect. The City intends that
these findings be considered as an integrated whole and, whether or not any
part of these findings fail to cross-reference or incorporate by reference any
other part of these findings, that any finding required or committed to be
made by the City with respect to any particular subject matter of the Final
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EIR, shall be deemed to be made if it appears in any portion of these
findings.
If any term, provision or portion of these Findings or the application of these Findings to a
particular situation is held by a court to be invalid, void or unenforceable, the remaining provisions
of these Findings, or their application to other actions related to the Project, shall continue in full
force and effect unless amended or modified by the City.
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COUNCIL RESOLUTION NO. 2024 -XXX
EXHIBIT B
FINAL ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT
Travertine Specific Plan et al, La Quinta CA
4.0 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Chapter 4.0 Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
4.1 Introduction
If mitigation measures are required or incorporated into a project as part of the CEQA process, the
lead agency must adopt a Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program (MMRP) to ensure
compliance with the project's mitigation measures. Sections 15097 and 15126.4(a)(2) of the CEQA
Guidelines provide that a project's mitigation measures must be enforceable through permit
conditions, agreements, or other mechanisms. CEQA and the CEQA Guidelines further provide that
the MMRP must be adopted at the time of project approval. However, while the MMRP does not have
to be included in the EIR, for the sake of maximizing public transparency, a copy of the proposed
Project's MMRP has been included in this Final EIR below.
In light of the foregoing, this Chapter contains the proposed Project's MMRP. The MMRP was
prepared to provide a program for not only monitoring and reporting on the Project's mitigation
measures, but also enforcing compliance with respect to the implementation of each mitigation
measure adopted for the Project. The purpose of the mitigation measures is to mitigate or avoid
significant environmental effects of the Project.
4.2 Monitoring Authority
The City may delegate duties and responsibilities for monitoring compliance with the objective
performance standards established by any given mitigation measure to designated environmental
monitors or consultants as deemed necessary. The City may also delegate such duties and
responsibilities to certain responsible agencies, affected jurisdictions, enforcement and regulatory
agencies of the state or county, special districts and other agencies. The same duties and
responsibilities may also be delegated to qualified private entities which accept the delegation. The
City's Development Services (or equivalent positions of other designated agencies or entities) must
ensure that the officials delegated the duties or responsibilities to monitor any given set of mitigation
measures are qualified to assume such duties and responsibilities.
Any deviation from the procedures identified under the MMRP shall require prior approval or
authorization by the City. Moreover, any deviations from any of the established monitoring
procedures set forth in the MMRP and any remedial actions taken to correct such deviations shall be
reported immediately to the City by the assigned environmental monitor or consultant.
Notwithstanding any such delegation, the City shall remain responsible for monitoring the
implementation of all of the project's mitigation measures in accordance with the project's MMRP.
Travertine Final EIR 4-1 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
4.3 Enforcement Responsibility
The mitigation measures for the proposed project will primarily apply prior to or during construction
of the project in all phases of development the project. The City shall be responsible for enforcing
each mitigation measure, albeit the City may assign such enforcement responsibilities to a qualified
environmental monitor. The assigned environmental monitor for each construction activity shall
report any problems with enforcement to the City and appropriate agencies.
The MMRP prepared for the proposed project will be fully enforceable through permit conditions,
agreements, or other measures.
4.4 Mitigation Monitoring Table
Table 4-1, Travertine Specific Pian Amendment Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program,
below identifies for each mitigation measure: (1) the potential impact on the environment that the
mitigation measure is focused on; (2) a description of the mitigation measure; (3) the entity
responsible for monitoring the mitigation measure; (4) the timing for implementing the measure; and
(5) the anticipated level of significance of the impact at issue after mitigation.
Travertine Final EIR 4-2 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Table 4-1
Travertine Specific Plan Amendment Mitigation Monitoring and Reporting Program
Travertine Final EIR 4-3 July 2024
Level of
Potential Impacts on
Mitigation Measure
Responsible for
Timing
g
Significance
the Environment
Monitoring
After
Mitigation
Section 4.1, Aesthetics
AES -1 In order to reduce the proposed substation's
impact on the existing visual character and
c. Visual character or
reduce the potential degradation of scenic
scenic quality
quality of the surrounding area, the Project
City Council/
d. Light and glare
applicant shall use one or more of the following
Planning
or comparable techniques: perimeter barriers,
Commission
landscaping appropriate for the substation
IID
During review of
Less than
facility. Additionally, glare shall be controlled
Substation
Significant
through the use of non -reflective surfaces,
Public Works
dulling finishes to help blend the structures with
Department
the surroundings and reduce glare and color
contrast, or comparable methods subject to the
Project Applicant
approval of IID.
See 13I0-12, BI0-17, and BIO -30
Section 4.2, Air Quality
AQ -1 The General Contractor and all sub -contractors
shall ensure that during Project and off-site
b. Result in a
utility construction activities, off-road diesel
City Planning &
cumulatively
construction equipment rated at 50 horsepower
Public Works
During ground
considerable net
(hp) or greater, complies with EPA/CARB Tier 4
Department
disturbing
Less than
increase if any
off-road emissions standards or equivalent and
activities &
Significant
criteria pollutant
shall ensure that all construction equipment is
Project Contractor
construction
tuned and maintained in accordance with the
manufacturer's specifications.
Travertine Final EIR 4-3 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
a. Conflict with
implementation of
applicable air quality
pp q Y
plan
AQ -2 The Project applicant must comply with South
Coast AQMD Rule 445 (Wood -Burning
Devices as amended b explicitly
), Y p Y
prohibiting the use of wood burning stoves
and fireplaces in the proposed new
development.
City Planning &
Public Works
Department
Project Contractor
Prior to the
approval of
grading plans
Less than
Significant
Mitigation Measures to Reduce VOC from Mobile
Sources:
AQ -3 The Project operator shall provide and/or
accommodate facilities within the Project
property such as bicycle parking and storage,
to encourage bicycle use instead of driving as
a method to reduce or otherwise eliminate
certain vehicle trips within the Project area.
AQ -4 The Project operator of the on-site resort
facilities shall implement procedures to
accommodate remote work or
telecommuting, as applicable to the work
City Planning &
sectors, as a method to reduce commercial
Public Works
vehicle miles traveled.
Department
During operation
Less than
Significant
AQ -5 The Project operator shall encourage the use
Project Applicant/
of low emission vehicles to reduce the
Contractor
reliance on gasoline or diesel fuel by
providing charging stations and
designated parking for emissions free
vehicles.
Mitigation Measures to Reduce VOCs from Consumer
Products:
AQ -6 The Project operator shall utilize "Super -
Compliant" or otherwise non -aerosol
dispersal/application methods (and/or low
VOC products) in all Commercial Buildings
including the Hotel, Spa and Golf Training
Travertine Final EIR 4-4 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-5 July 2024
Facility. This includes but is not limited to: air
fresheners, cooking spray, floor maintenance
products, furniture maintenance products,
degreaser, oven cleaners, toilet care
products. Project operators can refer to the
CARB Consumer Product Program web site for
the most current information.
AQ -7 The Project operator shall utilize low VOC
products to the greatest degree possible on
all landscape maintenance activities
associated with the Commercial Buildings,
Golf Training grounds and Common
Landscape Areas. These shall be applied with
non -aerosol measures where possible.
Applicable products include insecticides,
pesticides, pool/spa disinfectants, grill
cleaners. Project operators can refer to the
CARB Consumer Product Program web site for
the most current information.
AQ -8 The Project operator shall require all commercial
products to be diluted as directed.
AQ -9 The Project operator shall use low -solvent or
solvent -free paints for all commercial
buildings and common area monumentation
or walls (including repairs.)
AQ -10 The Project operator shall minimize the use of
pesticides with high organic solvent contents,
and/or the use of emulsions and water-based
formulations.
Section 4.3, Biological
113I0-1 Because USFWS has determined that fences
Resources
could block wildlife movement, fences will
USFWS
Prior to issuance
Less than
of permit
Significant
not be used as an initial deterrent to
Travertine Final EIR 4-5 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
a. Substantial adverse
unauthorized access; however, a fencing
City Planning
effect on any
contingency plan will be developed to address
Department
candidate, sensitive or
any future indirect Project impacts. Following
special status species
the formation of the HOA and before the
Project Applicant/
in local or regional
completion of the habitat interface golf
Developer
plans, policies, or
course, the Project applicant will establish a
regulations, or by the
three-person committee, with
California Department
representatives from USFWS, CDFW, and the
of Fish and Game or
HOA to monitor and assess the future need
US Fish and Wildlife
for a buffer fence. The committee will be
Service
charged with assessing whether a future
fence is needed based on whether a fence is
needed to prevent human access to sheep
habitat or keep bighorn sheep off the project
site. In addition, if USFWS finds evidence that
a fence is necessary to prevent human access
to prevent human access to sheep habitat or
keep bighorn sheep off the project site,
USFWS may require the construction of the
fence at its sole discretion. To avoid
complications in the installation of a future
fence, the Project applicant would be
required to provide wildlife fence easements
at the exterior boundary of the golf course or
trail corridor, whichever is the outer most
perimeter of the project, create an HOA as the
legally responsible party for fence installation,
and provide or identify a dedicated source of
funds to construct the fence prior to
recording the first final map.
Consistent with the terms of the Project
Biological Opinion, upon either a three-
person committee or USFWS's unilateral
determination that a fence is necessary based
on the criteria specified in the Biological
Travertine Final EIR 4-6 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-7 July 2024
Opinion, an 8 -foot -tall wildlife fence
constructed of tubular steel and painted to
blend in with the desert environment shall be
installed where the Project interfaces with
Coral Mountain along the northern boundary
and extend southward along the western and
southern boundary of proposed development
to preclude PBS from entering the Project and
humans from entering the sheep habitat. The
fence shall extend to where Avenue 62
intersects with the eastern Project boundary.
113I0-2 All lighting located within the development
City Planning
footprint shall conform with the
Commission/City
Less than
requirements outlined in the Travertine
Council
Prior to approval
Significant
Specific Plan and the MSHCP.
Project Applicant
113I0-3 Where the Project is located adjacent to the
SRSJM Conservation Area along its western
edge, a minimum buffer of 74 feet shall be
incorporated between SRSJM undeveloped
City Planning
native desert areas and private homeowner
Commission/City
Less than
parcels and public gathering areas. Each
Council
Prior to approval
Significant
private homeowner parcel along this western
edge shall have fencing at the top of slope
Project Applicant
with Lexan panels to dampen noise to an
appropriate level.
113I0-4 All plant species identified as invasive by the
CVMSHP, or that are known to be toxic to PBS,
will be prohibited from inclusion in Project
City Planning
landscaping including areas adjacent to
Commission/City
Prior to approval
Less than
proposed open space. Prior to site
Council
of landscape
Significant
disturbance a Project -specific list of
plan
prohibited plant species will be prepared by a
Project Applicant
qualified biologist for use in developing the
Project Landscape Plan. This will include
Travertine Final EIR 4-7 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-8 July 2024
plants identified as invasive by the California
Invasive Plant Council (Cal -IPC) and the
CVMSHCP. The City shall review the landscape
palette prior to planting.
BI0-5 The final design and location of natural trails will
be approved by the USFWS and the City to
minimize disturbance to PBS. Unauthorized
trails currently in use on the Property will be
closed to minimize impacts to bighorn sheep
and replaced with the trail proposed as part
of the Project. The nature trail will be closed
USFWS
to equestrian and bicycle use. Other than this
trail, no additional trails would be proposed
City Planning
or allowed as part of the Project. To restrict
Commission/City
Final Design
Less than
human access to surrounding hills, including:
Council
Significant
(a) placement of "no trespass" signs at legally
enforceable intervals along the trail and
Project Applicant
habitat/development interface, with legally
enforceable language; (b) development of
CC&Rs and educational materials that explain
to residents and members the ecology of
bighorn sheep and the rules concerning
unauthorized hiking into sheep habitat.
BI0-6 Project proponent shall permanently protect
19.7 acres in Section 5 as bighorn sheep
habitat. Prior to recording the first final map,
Project proponent also has committed to
City Planning
acquire an additional approximately 100
Commission/City
Prior to
acres of bighorn sheep habitat in Section 5
Less than
Council
recording the
g
that also are strategically located to fragment
Significant
first final map
larger blocks of land into smaller units with
Project Applicant
reduced development potential. All lands
proposed for conservation in Section 5 will be
approved by the Service and protected in
perpetuity consistent with California Civil
Travertine Final EIR 4-8 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-9 July 2024
Code Section 815, et seq. For more detail,
please refer to the Section 5 Addendum to the
Travertine Biological Assessment.
BIO -7 Project proponent shall establish a $500,000
endowment with the Center for Natural Lands
Management (CNLM) to be managed by the
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to assist with the
long-term management of bighorn sheep. Of
CNLM
this total, $100,000 will be provided upon
issuance of the first grading permit, with the
USFWS
Prior to approval
Less than
balance of $400,000 paid in installments of
Significant
$100,000 per year over the succeeding four
Project Applicant
years. Long-term maintenance and
monitoring activities shall be outlined in a
long-term management plan and submitted
to CDFW and USFWS for review and approval.
113I0-8 Project proponent shall provide an additional
$100,000 to the CNLM endowment above to
support the gathering of information on the
CNLM
Less than
effects of the regional trails system on
Prior to approval
Significant
bighorn sheep, including trails in and around
Project Applicant
the Project site.
Travertine Final EIR 4-9 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-10 July 2024
BIO -9 The Jefferson Street extension through Section
32 will be constructed using active and
passive design features to prevent public
roadside parking and foot access into bighorn
sheep habitat (e.g., boulders, k -rail, berm,
narrow road shoulder, bar ditch, and
restrictive signage), subject to review and
approval by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
BIO -10 Within the project boundary, approximately
100 yards at the west end of the newly
constructed Jefferson Street Loop in the
USFWS
southwest comer of Section 33, where it
Prior to approval
Less than
connects with the Avenue 62 alignment, will
Project
Significant
be left as undeveloped desert. The distance in
Applicant/Developer
some places will be less than 100 yards but
other features such as "manufactured slopes"
and "property fences" will be used, as shown
in Figure 4 — BO Conservation Measure #7 of
the Project Biological Opinion. This design
feature, in combination with enhanced native
landscaping, will discourage unauthorized
vehicle access into bighorn sheep habitat in
Section 5 adjacent to the Travertine project
boundary.
City Planning
BIO -11 No exotic plants known to be toxic to PBS, or
Commission/City
invasive in desert environments, will be used
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
in project landscaping.
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
City Planning
BIO -12 The Project shall not provide direct public
Commission/City
access from internal streets to hillside sheep
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
habitat.
Significant
Project
Travertine Final EIR 4-10 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-11 July 2024
Applicant/Developer
City Planning
Commission/City
BIO -13 The Project Nature Trail will form the southern
Council
Less than
and western perimeters of the Project.
Prior to approval
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
City Planning
BIO -14 To deter bighorn sheep access to the project
Commission/City
site, natural landscaping and property fences
Council
Less than
around residential areas would reduce noise,
Prior to approval
Significant
light, and visual impacts on surrounding hills.
Project
Applicant/Developer
BIO -15 The best management practices shall be used to
preclude the establishment of potential
City Planning
disease vectors at open water features (i.e.,
Commission/City
water bodies will be designed with steep,
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
unvegetated slopes and deep enough water
Significant
to prevent establishment of emergent
Project
wetland vegetation).
Applicant/Developer
BIO -16 CC&R's and Project Specific Plan conditions
shall prohibit activities that emit noise above
City Planning
specified levels (not to exceed 60 dB(A) for
Commission/City
sensitive receptors or 75 dB(A) for
Council
Less than
nonresidential receptors (per City Ordinance
Prior to approval
Significant
9.100.210 Noise Control). For example, only
Project
quiet electric golf carts will be used for service
Applicant/Developer
and maintenance.
City Planning
BIO -17 Outdoor lighting will be down -shielded and
Commission/City
directed away from the hillsides in
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
accordance with the City municipal code.
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
Travertine Final EIR 4-11 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-12 July 2024
BIO -18 To increase public awareness regarding the
sensitivity of PBS in the region, educational
materials will be provided to homeowners
and made available to users of the public
facilities within the Travertine development.
This material will be prepared in cooperation
with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and
CDFW. In addition, the Project proponent will
provide within the project an area dedicated
as an interpretive center concerning the
bighorn sheep.
City Planning
Commission/City
Council
Project
Applicant/Developer
During operation
Less than
Significant
BIO -19 The two water reservoirs will be constructed
of steel or concrete and buried underground
City Planning
to the extent possible, or screened by
Commission/City
landscaped berms. Any tank appurtenances
Council
(e.g., valves) remaining above -ground will be
Prior to approval
Less than
painted with non -reflective paint colored to
CVWD
Significant
blend with the surrounding habitat and to
prevent light from being reflected toward
Project
sheep habitat in the Santa Rosa Mountains.
Applicant/Developer
BIO -20 Dogs and other pets are not allowed within the
National Monument and appropriate signage
at the designated trailhead parking areas and
any other access points will be installed to
prohibit dogs along the Nature Trail. CC&Rs
City Planning
and club rules will require pets to remain on a
Commission/City
leash while outside enclosed areas, and will
Council
Less than
prohibit pets from entering the hills at any
Prior to approval
Significant
time. The Project proponent will consult with
USFWS during the drafting of Rules &
Project
Applicant/Developer
Regulations concerning appropriate rules and
regulations to protect bighorn sheep. The
Master Declaration of Conditions, Covenants
and Restrictions will incorporate rules and
regulations specifically addressing bighorn
Travertine Final EIR 4-12 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-13 July 2024
sheep, which rules and regulations may be
modified, amended or deleted only with the
express written consent of USFWS. Violators
of CC&Rs and club rules will be subject to
increasingly severe penalties. Compliance
with the local "leash law" will also be
enforced pursuant to City ordinance and the
project's Specific Plan conditions." A variety
of other measures will be implemented to
restrict human access to surrounding hills,
including training personnel to monitor and
control human access to adjacent hills.
City Planning
BIO -21 The acreage of the Project Site that is located
Commission/City
within the MSHCP Conservation Area shall be
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
dedicated to Conservation in perpetuity.
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
BIO -22 Prior to the issuance of grading permits, the
project proponent will provide a no -interest
City Planning
$2,000,000 loan to the CVCC or its designee
Commission/City
upon mutually agreeable terms to acquire
Council
essential bighorn sheep habitat in the
Prior to the
Less than
project area. This provision may be revised
CVCC/Wildlife
issuance of
Significant
or substituted for in a manner of equal or
Agencies
grading permits
greater benefit to the Plan upon mutual
agreement of CVCC, the Wildlife Agencies,
Project
and the Project proponent.
Applicant/Developer
BIO -23 A Qualified Biologist will prepare and present
Qualified Biologist
to each employee (including temporary,
contractors, and subcontractors) a Worker
City Planning
Prior to grading
Less than
Environmental Awareness Program (WEAP)
Commission/City
or construction
prior to the worker's initiation of work on the
Council
activities
Significant
Project site. Workers shall also be advised by
the Qualified Biologist of the special -status
Project
Travertine Final EIR 4-13 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-14 July 2024
wildlife species in the Project site, the steps to
Applicant/Developer
avoid impacts to the species and the potential
penalties for taking such species. At a
minimum, the WEAP will include the
following information: occurrence of the
listed and sensitive species in the area, their
general ecology, sensitivity of the species to
human activities, legal protection afforded to
these species, penalties for violations of
federal and State laws, reporting
requirements, and Project features and
mitigation measures designed to reduce the
impacts to these species and promote
continued successful occupation of habitats
within the Project area. Included in this WEAP
will be color photographs of the listed species,
which will be shown to the employees.
Following the WEAP, the photographs will be
posted in the contractor and resident
engineer office, where they will remain
through the duration of the Project. The
contractor, resident engineer, and the
Qualified Biologist will be responsible for
ensuring that employees are aware of the
listed species and observe reporting and
mitigation and avoidance requirements. A
record of all trained personnel will be kept
with the construction foreman onsite. If new
construction personnel are added to the
project, the construction foreman will ensure
that new personnel receive WEAP training
before they start working.
BIO -24 Prior to issuance of grading permit, a qualified
Qualified Biologist
prior to issuance
Less than
biologist will be designated to monitor
of grading permit
Significant
construction activities and advise
City Planning
Travertine Final EIR 4-14 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-15 July 2024
construction personnel of the sensitive
Commission/City
biological resources on site that may be
Council
impacted by, and conversely, that must be
avoided during site development. A biological
Project
monitor will be on site to monitor avoidance
Applicant/Developer
activities and to monitor all clearing and
grubbing activities, as well as grading,
excavation, and/or other ground -disturbing
activities in jurisdictional areas to ensure that
impacts do not exceed the limits of grading
and to minimize the likelihood of inadvertent
impacts on special -status species. The
monitor will flush avian species and remove
and relocate, if possible, non -avian species to
a safe location outside of the immediate
construction zone (generally 1,000 feet or
more onto public lands, when feasible).
Where appropriate, the biological monitor
will mark/flag the limits of environmental
sensitive areas (ESAs) to restrict project
activities near the areas. These restricted
areas will be monitored to protect the species
during construction. The biological monitor
will ensure that all biological mitigation
measures, BMPs, avoidance and protection
measures described in the relevant project
permits, approvals, licenses, and
environmental reports, and CEQA
documents, are in place and are adhered to.
Monitoring will cease when the sensitive
habitats and jurisdictional areas have been
cleared or impacted.
The biological monitor will ensure that
construction activities will maintain measures
to prevent accidental trapping of wildlife into
Travertine Final EIR 4-15 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-16 July 2024
excavated areas and inspect excavated areas
daily to detect the presence of trapped
wildlife. All deep or steep -walled excavated
areas should be covered with plywood or
other weight bearing material and will be
furnished with escape ramps at a 3:1 slope or
are surrounded with exclusionary fencing in
order to prevent wildlife from entering them.
Trapped wildlife should be relocated out of
harm's way to a suitable habitat outside of
the project area.
The biological monitor will have the authority
to temporarily halt all construction activities
and all non -emergency actions if ESAs and
special -status species are identified and will
be directly impacted. The monitor will notify
the appropriate resource agency and consult
if needed. If needed, and if possible, the
biological monitor will relocate the individual
outside of the work area where it will not be
harmed. Work can continue at the location if
the project proponent and the consulted
resource agency determine that the activity
will not result in impacts on the species.
All biological monitor observations of special -
status species will be documented and
mapped in monitoring logs. Monitoring logs
will be completed for each day of monitoring.
All special -status species recordings will be
submitted to the CNDDB.
The biological monitors will be responsible for
documenting compliance with avoidance
measures, the results of the surveys and the
ongoing monitoring, and will provide a copy
of the monitoring reports for impact areas to
Travertine Final EIR 4-16 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-17 July 2024
the County EPD and any permitting agencies
that require reporting.
The appropriate agencies will be notified if a
dead or injured protected species is located
within the project site. Written notification
will be made within 15 days of the date and
time of the finding or incident (if known) and
will include: location of the carcass, a
photograph, cause of death (if known), and
other pertinent information.
BIO -25 Prior to issuance of grading permits and
commencement of any ground -disturbing
activities or vegetation removal the following
measures would be implemented to avoid
impacts on ESAs, surrounding habitats, and
special status species and wildlife:
a. Project footprint would be set at the
minimum size to accomplish necessary
Prior to issuance
work, and the footprint will be of a
Qualified Biologist
of grading permit
size/area no greater than is identified in
and
the CEQA documentation, to minimize
City Planning
commencement
impacts on sensitive biological
Commission/City
of any ground
Less than
resources.
Council
disturbing
Significant
b. Specifications for the project boundary,Project
activities or
limits of grading, project related parking,vegetation
Applicant/Developer
storage areas, laydown sites, and
removal
equipment storage areas would be
mapped and clearly marked in the field
with temporary fencing, signs, stakes,
flags, rope, cord, or other appropriate
markers. All markers would be
maintained until the completion of
activities in that area.
Travertine Final EIR 4-17 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-18 July 2024
c. To minimize the amount of disturbance,
the construction/laydown activities,
parking, staging, storage, spoil
management, and equipment access will
be restricted to designated areas.
Designated areas will comprise existing
disturbed areas (parking lots, access
roads, graded areas, etc.) to the extent
possible.
d. Designated staging areas will be
enclosed with temporary security
fencing. All staging areas will comply
with conditions in the Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan SWPPP),
which provides BMPs to avoid or
mitigate erosion impacts during
construction.
e. Project -related work limits would be
defined and work crews would be
restricted to designated work areas.
Disturbance beyond the actual
construction zone will be prohibited
without site-specific surveys. If sensitive
biological resources are detected in an
area to be impacted, then appropriate
measures would be implemented to
avoid impacts (i.e., flag and avoid, erect
orange construction fencing, biological
monitor present during work, etc.).
However, if avoidance is not possible
and the sensitive biological resources
would be directly impacted by project
activities, the biologist would mark
and/or stake the site(s) and map the
individuals on an aerial map and with a
Travertine Final EIR 4-18 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-19 July 2024
Global Positioning System (GPS) unit.
The biologist would then contact the
appropriate resource agencies to
develop additional avoidance,
minimization and/or mitigation
measures prior to commencing project
activities.
f. ESAs would be identified, mapped,
clearly marked in the field, and avoided
to the maximum extent practicable in
order to avoid and minimize impacts on
sensitive biological resources.
g. Existing roads and trails would be
utilized wherever possible to avoid
unnecessary impacts. Project related
vehicle traffic would be restricted to
established roads, staging areas, and
parking areas. Travel outside
construction zones will be prohibited.
h. Monitoring would occur periodically
during the length of construction
activities to ensure project limits,
designated areas (parking, storage, etc.),
and ESAs are still clearly marked.
L Signs will be installed on boundaries of
the Project Site and other strategic
locations to notify the public of the
sensitive biological resources identified
onsite and prohibit entry into key high
value habitat areas.
Travertine Final EIR 4-19 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-20 July 2024
BIO -26 Prior to construction, the construction area
and adjacent habitat within 500 feet of the
construction area, or to the edge of the
property if less than 500 feet, will be surveyed
by a Qualified Biologist for burrows that could
be used by burrowing owl. Two (2) surveys
will be conducted, with one survey to be
conducted between 14 and 30 days prior to
site disturbance, and a second survey to be
conducted within 24 hours of site
disturbance, following methods described in
the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation
(California Department of Fish and Game
2012). If a burrow is located, the Qualified
Prior to issuance
Biologist will determine if an owl is present in
Qualified Biologist
of grading permit
the burrow. If the burrow is determined to be
and
occupied, the burrow will be flagged and a
City Planning
commencement
160 -foot buffer during the non -breeding
Commission/City
of any ground
Less than
season and a 250 -foot buffer during the
Council
disturbing
Significant
breeding season, or a buffer to the edge of
activities or
the property boundary if less than 500 feet,
Project
vegetation
will be established around the burrow. The
Applicant/Developer
removal
buffer will be staked and flagged. No
construction will be permitted within the
buffer until the young are no longer
dependent on the burrow.
If the burrow is unoccupied, the burrow will
be made inaccessible to burrowing owls, and
construction activities may proceed. If either
a nesting or escape burrow is occupied,
burrowing owls shall be relocated pursuant to
accepted protocols and in coordination with
the Wildlife Agencies (CDFW and USFWS). A
burrow is assumed occupied if records
indicate that, based on surveys conducted
Travertine Final EIR 4-20 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-21 July 2024
following protocol, at least one burrowing owl
has been observed occupying a burrow on
site during the past three years. If there are
no records for the site, surveys must be
conducted to determine, prior to
construction, if burrowing owls are present.
Determination of the appropriate method of
relocation, such as eviction/passive
relocation or active relocation, shall be based
on the specific site conditions (e.g., distance
to nearest suitable habitat and presence of
burrows within that habitat) in coordination
with the Wildlife Agencies. Active relocation
and eviction/passive relocation require the
preservation and maintenance of suitable
burrowing owl habitat determined through
coordination with the Wildlife Agencies.
BIO -27 Prior to the start of construction activities in
modeled Le Conte's thrasher habitat in the
SRSJM Conservation Area, surveys will be
Conducted by a Qualified Biologist on the
construction site and within 500 feet of the
Qualified Biologist
construction site, or to the property boundary
if less than 500 feet. If nesting Le Conte's
City Planning
Prior to the start
thrashers are found, a 500 -foot buffer, or to
Commission/City
of construction
Less than
the property boundary if less than 500 feet,
Council
activities during
Significant
will be established around the nest site. The
nesting season
buffer will be staked and flagged. No
Project
construction will be permitted within the
Applicant/Developer
buffer during the breeding season (January 15
through June 15) or until the young have
fledged.
BIO -28 Vegetation clearing shall be conducted outside
Qualified Avian
Outside of
Less than
of the peak nesting season, which is generally
Biologist
nesting season
Significant
identified as February 1 through August 31, to
Travertine Final EIR 4-21 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-22 July 2024
the greatest extent feasible. Regardless of the
City Planning
time of year, nesting bird surveys shall be
Commission/City
performed by a qualified avian biologist no
Council
more than 3 days prior to vegetation removal
or ground -disturbing activities. Pre-
Project
construction surveys shall focus on both
Applicant/Developer
direct and indirect evidence of nesting,
including nest locations and nesting behavior.
The qualified avian biologist will make every
effort to avoid potential nest predation as a
result of survey and monitoring efforts. If
active nests are found during the pre -
construction nesting bird surveys, a qualified
biologist shall establish an appropriate nest
buffer to be marked on the ground. Nest
buffers are species specific and shall be at
least 300 feet for passerines and 500 feet for
raptors. A smaller or larger buffer may be
determined by the qualified biologist familiar
with the nesting phenology of the nesting
species and based on nest and buffer
monitoring results. Construction activities
may not occur inside the established buffers,
which shall remain on site until a qualified
biologist determines the young have fledged
or the nest is no longer active. Active nests
and adequacy of the established buffer
distance shall be monitored daily by the
qualified biologist until the qualified biologist
has determined the young have fledged or the
Project has been completed. The qualified
biologist has the authority to stop work if
nesting pairs exhibit signs of disturbance.
BIO -29 Drainage and Toxics: Project stormwater runoff
City Planning
Prior to approval
Less than
will be conveyed eastward toward the Dike 4
Commission/City
of grading plans
Significant
Travertine Final EIR 4-22 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-23 July 2024
impound and away from Project surrounding
open space, and SRSJM Conservation Area.
Stormwater retention basins are designed to
provide requisite water quality treatment,
including bio -remediation. Subsequent
engineering will include preparation of a
SWPPP that will ensure against increased
runoff and protect water quality during and
post -construction.
Council
Project
Applicant/Developer
BIO -30 Artificial Lighting: Night lighting shall be
directed away from adjacent open space and
SRSJM Conservation Area to protect wildlife
from direct night lighting. Light fixtures
adjacent to open space will be shielded and
utilize low intensity lighting. No nighttime
lighting will be utilized on the nature trail and
a curfew will be established for trail use from
sunrise to sunset. Notice of the trail curfew
will be posted at each trail entry point. If night
lighting is required during construction,
City Planning
shielding shall be incorporated to ensure
Commission/City
ambient lighting adjacent conservation lands
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
are not increased.
of Architectural
Significant
Review
Throughout construction and the lifetime
Project
operations of the Project, the City and Project
Applicant/Developer
proponent shall eliminate all nonessential
lighting throughout the Project area,
including the selected offsite field utilities
parcel, and avoid or limit the use of artificial
light at night during the hours of dawn and
dusk when many wildlife species are most
active. The City shall ensure that all lighting
for the Project is fully shielded, cast
downward, reduced in intensity to the
greatest extent possible, and does not result
Travertine Final EIR 4-23 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-24 July 2024
in lighting trespass including glare into
surrounding areas or upward into the night
sky (see the International Dark -Sky
Association standards at http://darksky.org/).
The City and Project proponent shall ensure
use of LED lighting with a correlated color
temperature of 3,000 Kelvins or less, proper
disposal of hazardous waste, and recycling of
lighting that contains toxic compounds with a
qualified recycler.
City Planning
BIO -31 Noise: The Project will incorporate setbacks, as
Commission/City
specified in the Specific Plan to minimize the
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
effects of noise on wildlife.
of Tract Map
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
BIO -32 Unauthorized Access: The Project will
City Planning
incorporate signage, fencing, gates, and
Commission/City
similar measures and barriers to inform the
Council
Prior to approval
Less than
hiking public and to avoid or minimize
of Architectural
Significant
unauthorized access to adjacent open space
Project
1
Review
lands.
Applicant/Developer
Travertine Final EIR 4-24 July 2024
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BIO -33 California Desert Native Plants Act: The
applicant will collect California Desert Native
Plan Act protected plants, including California
barrel cactus (Ferocactus cylindraceus),
Gander's buckhorn cholla (Cylindropuntia
Riverside County
ganderi), Englemann's hedgehog cactus
Agriculture
(Echinocereus engelmannii), cottontop cactus
Commissioner
(Echinocactus polycephalus), beavertail
Prior to and
cactus (Opuntia basilaris), branched pencil
City Planning
during collection
Less than
cholla (Cylindropuntia ramossissima), ocotillo
Commission/City
of California
Significant
(Fouquieria splendens), catclaw (Acacia
Council
Native plants
greggii), blue paloverde (Parkinsonia florida),
and smoke tree (Psorothamnus spinosus) and
Project
prioritize reuse of plant materials onsite. A
Applicant/Developer
permit from the Agriculture Commissioner of
the County of Riverside shall be obtained
prior to collection and relocation of these
species.
BIO -34 A general biological field survey to document
existing conditions and the suitability of
habitats within the utility field parcels to
support special -status wildlife species such as
Prior to any
burrowing owl, which could potentially occur
ground
on-site. Regardless of focused surveyfindings,
Qualified Biologist
disturbance, one
if suitable habitat for burrowing owl is
no less than 14
present, two (2) separate preconstruction
City Planning
days prior to
Less than
surveys are required prior to any ground
Department
disturbance, and
Significant
disturbance, one no less than 14 days prior to
Project Applicant/
the other within
disturbance, and the other within 24 hours
Developer
24 hours prior to
prior to ground disturbance.
ground
disturbance
Should take of burrowing owl be expected, a
relocation plan and extensive coordination to
move animals offsite can be expected.
BIO -35: Le Conte's Thrasher. Le Conte's thrasher
Qualified Avian
Prior to
Less than
focused surveys shall be performed by a
Biologist
vegetation
Significant
Travertine Final EIR 4-25 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-26 July 2024
qualified avian biologist prior to vegetation
removal or
removal or ground -disturbing activities
City Planning
ground
following methods outlined on pages 6-8 of
Department
disturbance
the LeConte's Thrasher (Toxostoma lecontei)
Status and Nest Site Requirements in the
Project Applicant/
Coachella Valley (Hargrove, L. P. et al. 20204),
Developer
including the broadcast of song and calls by a
qualified avian biologist with an appropriate
permit. If active nests are found during the
pre -construction nesting bird surveys, the
qualified biologist shall inform CDFW and
shall establish an appropriate nest buffer to
be marked on the ground. Nest buffers are
species specific and shall be at least 300 feet
for passerines. A smaller or larger buffer may
be determined by the qualified biologist
familiar with the nesting phenology of the
nesting species and based on nest and buffer
monitoring results. Construction activities
may not occur inside the established buffers,
which shall remain on site until a qualified
biologist determines the young have fledged
or the nest is no longer active. Active nests
and adequacy of the established buffer
distance shall be monitored daily by the
qualified biologist until the qualified biologist
has determined the young have fledged or the
Project has been completed. The qualified
biologist has the authority to stop work if
nesting pairs exhibit signs of disturbance.
BIO -36: Burrowing Owl Avoidance: No less than 60
Qualified Biologist
No less than 60
days prior to the start of Project -related
City Planning
days prior to the
Less than
activities, a burrowing owl habitat
Department
start of Project-
Significant
assessment shall be conducted within the
related activities
Project site and surrounding area, including
Project Applicant/
Travertine Final EIR 4-26 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-27 July 2024
the selected off-site utility field parcel, by a
Developer
qualified biologist according to the
specifications of the Staff Report on
Burrowing Owl Mitigation (Department of
Fish and Game, March 2012 or most recent
version).
Suitable habitat for burrowing owl has been
identified within the Project site; therefore,
focused burrowing owl surveys shall be
conducted by a qualified biologist according
to the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl
Mitigation prior to vegetation removal or
ground -disturbing activities. Focused
burrowing owl surveys shall also be
conducted in all areas identified through a
habitat assessment as being suitable habitat
for burrowing owls at the selected off-site
utility field parcel. If burrowing owls are
detected during the focused surveys, the
qualified biologist and Project proponent
shall prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall
be submitted to CDFW for review and
approval prior to commencing Project
activities. The Burrowing Owl Plan shall
describe proposed avoidance, minimization,
mitigation, and monitoring actions. The
Burrowing Owl Plan shall include the number
and location of occupied burrow sites, acres
of burrowing owl habitat that will be
impacted, details of site monitoring, and
details on proposed buffers and other
avoidance measures if avoidance is proposed.
If impacts to occupied burrowing owl habitat
or burrow cannot be avoided, the Burrowing
Owl Plan shall also describe minimization and
Travertine Final EIR 4-27 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-28 July 2024
relocation actions that will be implemented.
Proposed implementation of burrow
exclusion and closure should only be
considered as a last resort, after all other
options have been evaluated as exclusion is
not in itself an avoidance, minimization, or
mitigation method and has the possibility to
result in take. If impacts to occupied burrows
cannot be avoided, information shall be
provided regarding adjacent or nearby
suitable habitat available to owls along with
proposed relocation actions. The Project
proponent shall implement the Burrowing
Owl Plan following CDFW and USFWS review
and approval.
Preconstruction burrowing owl surveys shall
be conducted no less than 14 days prior to the
start of Project -related activities and within
24 hours prior to ground disturbance, in
accordance with the Staff Report on
Burrowing Owl Mitigation (2012 or most
recent version). Preconstruction surveys
should be performed by a qualified biologist
following the recommendations and
guidelines provided in the Staff Report on
Burrowing Owl Mitigation. If the
preconstruction surveys confirm occupied
burrowing owl habitat, Project activities shall
be immediately halted. The qualified biologist
shall coordinate with CDFW and prepare a
Burrowing Owl Plan that shall be submitted to
CDFW and USFWS for review and approval
prior to commencing Project activities.
BIO -37: All operation and maintenance activities
CVWD
During operation
Less than
relating to the Project's water tank facilities
of water tanks
Significant
Travertine Final EIR 4-28 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-29 July 2024
will be designed and conducted in a manner
City Planning
consistent with the applicable mitigation
Department
measures in the 2015 Operations and
Maintenance Manual for Coachella Valley
Project Applicant/
Water District Covered Activities and Facilities
Developer
Within Conservation Areas. Avoidance and
minimization measures include, but are not
limited to: (i) the number of access routes,
number and size of staging areas, and the
total area of any operations and maintenance
activities shall be limited to the minimum
necessary to achieve the project goal; (ii)
routes and boundaries outside the normal
access roads shall be clearly delineated
through fencing or flagging; (iii) if any CVWD
employee inadvertently impacts a listed
species or sensitive habitat during operations
and maintenance activities, CVWD shall
report the activity within 24 hours to CDFW.
b. Have a Substantial
BIO -38 Prior to the issuance of grading or building
Adverse Effect on
permits for the project, and prior to initiating
any Riparian Habitat
any work that may impact jurisdictional
or Other Sensitive
waters identified in the Travertine Project
Natural Community
Biological Resources Assessment, the Project-
City Planning
Identified in Local or
specific Delineation of State and Federal
Department
Prior to issuance
Regional Plans,
Jurisdictional Waters, Michael Baker
of grading or
Policies, Regulations
International, and the off-site utility field
Project Applicant/
building
Less than
or by the California
assessment prepared by Michael Baker
Developer
permits/initiating
Significant
Department of Fish
International, dated March 2022, June 2021,
any work
and Wildlife Service
and June 2022, respectively, the Project
CDFW
proponent shall provide notice to CDFW and
obtain a Lake and Streambed Alteration
Agreement as required pursuant to California
Fish and Game Code sections 1602-1616.
Travertine Final EIR 4-29 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-30 July 2024
BIO -39 Impacts to CDFW jurisdictional waters shall be
mitigated pursuant to a Habitat Mitigation
and Monitoring Plan (HMMP) which will be
prepared to identify specific on-site and/or
off-site mitigation activities that will be
implemented to compensate for unavoidable
impacts to CDFW jurisdictional areas. The
HMMP will identify the mitigation program
coordinated with and approved by CDFW, set
mitigation success criteria, and guide a five-
year qualitative and quantitative mitigation
City Planning
monitoring program to track mitigation
Department
Prior to issuance
success. Annual reports will be submitted to
of grading or
CDFW each year for five years, summarizing
Project Applicant/
building
Less than
mitigation performance against the success
Developer
permits/initiating
Significant
criteria. Impacts to non -riparian waters will
any work
be mitigated at a minimum 1:1 ratio. Impacts
CDFW
to riparian vegetation will be mitigated at a
minimum 2:1 ratio. The HMMP will identify
the mitigation program coordinated with and
approved by CDFW, set mitigation success
criteria, and guide a five-year qualitative and
quantitative mitigation monitoring program
to track mitigation success. Annual reports
will be submitted to CDFW each year for five
years, summarizing mitigation performance
against the success criteria.
BIO -40 Prior to construction of the Project, including
Regulatory
the offsite utility field, a jurisdictional
Specialist
delineation should be conducted to
determine the presence or absence and
City Planning
Prior to
Less than
potential regulatory status of any
Department
construction
Significant
jurisdictional features should it be
determined they may be impacted by
Project Applicant/
installation of water wells and the electric
Developer
Travertine Final EIR 4-30 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-31 July 2024
power substation within a proposed impact
area. If Impacts to jurisdictional features are
identified, the Project proponent shall comply
with the regulatory requirements of the
USACE, RWQCB and CDFW, as applicable,
regarding required regulatory permits,
including a Section 1602 Streambed
Alteration Agreement, Section 404 Permit,
Section 401 Water Quality Certification. Prior
to issuance of a grading permit, the Project
proponent shall implement the
recommendations of the Project Drainage
Study (DEIR, Appendix J.3) and in accordance
with the recommendations of the Project
Drainage Plan prior to issuance of a grading
permit obtain a Conditional Letter of Map
Revision (CLOMR) from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. The Project
Proponent shall obtain a Letter of Map
Revision (LOMR) prior to issuance of the first
Certificate of Occupancy.
4.4 Cultural Resources
CR -1 Prior to any ground -disturbing activities, the
Qualified
Project applicant shall retain a qualified
Archaeologist
a. Adverse change to
archaeologist, defined as an archaeologist
Prior to any
Historical Resources
that meets the Secretary of Interior's
City Planning
ground-
Less than
b. Adverse change to
Standards for professional archaeology, to
Department
disturbing
Significant
Archaeological
carry out all mitigation measures related to
activities
Resources
cultural resources. Tribal monitoring of site
Project Applicant/
disturbance will also be accommodated.
Developer
CR -2 The Project applicant shall assign a
Compliance Officer
Prior to any
compliance officer for the Project to ensure
ground-
Less than
City Planning
mitigation measures are in place and followed
disturbing
Significant
for the duration of Project construction. The
Department
activities
Travertine Final EIR 4-31 July 2024
4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
Travertine Final EIR 4-32 July 2024
compliance officer should prepare a monthly
compliance report for distribution to the City,
BOR, BLM, and interested Native American
groups. The compliance officer may be the
same person as the Project archaeologist or
may be another qualified individual
designated by the Project applicant.
Project Applicant/
Developer
CR -3 Prior to the commencement of ground
disturbance, a Tribal Cultural Resources
Monitoring and Mitigation Plan (Monitoring
Plan) shall be prepared. The Monitoring Plan
shall include, but not be limited to: principles
and procedures for the identification of
cultural resources monitoring protocols
consistent with CR -1, CR -2 and CR -7 for
Qualified
ground -disturbing activities, a worker training
Archaeologist
program consistent with CR -6, and discovery
Prior to the
and processing protocols for inadvertent
City Planning
commencement
Less than
discoveries of cultural resources consistent
Department
of ground
Significant
with CR -7 and CR -8. The plan shall detail
disturbance
protocols for determining circumstances in
Project Applicant/
which additional or reduced levels of
Developer
monitoring (e.g., spot checking) may be
appropriate. Fencing with a buffer shall be
placed around resources to be avoided. The
Monitoring Plan shall also establish a protocol
for communicating with the lead agencies and
interested Native American parties.
CR -4 Prior to ground -disturbing activities in any
Qualified
areas outside the APE described in the Project
Archaeologist
Prior to any
EIR, Exhibit 4.5-1, including but not limited to
ground-
Less than
locations proposed for the off-site utility field,
City Planning
disturbing
Significant
a supplemental study including an updated
Department
records search at the EIC, updated Sacred
activities
Lands File search, and pedestrian survey, shall
Project Applicant/
Travertine Final EIR 4-32 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-33 July 2024
be conducted. If resources are identified and
cannot be avoided, they shall be assessed for
their eligibility for the NRHP and CRHR.
Avoidance and minimization measures
identified as a result of the study shall be
incorporated into the Monitoring Plan.
Developer
CR -5 In the event of unanticipated discovery of
NRHP- and CRHR-eligible resources within the
APE or the off-site utility field, where
operationally feasible, such resources shall be
protected from direct project impacts by
project redesign (i.e., relocation of the ground
City Planning
disturbance, ancillary facilities, or temporary
Department
During any
facilities or work areas). Avoidance
ground-
Less than
mechanisms shall include temporary fencing
Project Applicant/
disturbing
Significant
and designation of such areas as
Developer
activities
environmentally sensitive areas (ESAs) for the
duration of the proposed Project. ESAs shall
include the boundary of each historic
property plus a 30 -meter (98 -foot) buffer
around the resource.
CR -6 Prior to the commencement of ground -
disturbing activities, typically at the Project
kick-off, the qualified archaeologist or their
designee will provide cultural sensitivity
Qualified
training to construction crews. The training
Archaeologist
will provide information on signs of potential
Prior to any
cultural resources, regulatory requirements
City Planning
ground-
Less than
for the protection of cultural resources and
Department
disturbing
Significant
the proper procedures to follow should
activities
unanticipated cultural resources discoveries
Project Applicant/
be made during construction. Workers will be
Developer
provided contact information and protocols
to follow if inadvertent discoveries are made.
Workers will be shown examples of the types
Travertine Final EIR 4-33 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-34 July 2024
of tribal cultural resources that might be
encountered and that would require
notification of the project archaeologist. The
Project archaeologist shall create a training
video, PowerPoint presentation, or printed
literature that can be shown to new workers
and contractors for continuous training
throughout the life of the Project.
CR -7 Prior to ground disturbance, an
archaeological monitor, working under the
supervision of the qualified archaeologist,
and Native American monitors from the Agua
Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians and the
Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians, shall
be retained to monitor ground -disturbing
activities. Monitoring will take place within or
near ESAs or in other areas agreed upon by
Qualified
the archaeologist, City, and Native American
Archaeologist
monitor, and as identified in the Monitoring
Plan. Monitoring activities will include
Native American
examining the excavation of native soils as
Monitors
Prior to any
ground-
Less than
well as the disposal of spoils in certain areas.
The duration, timing and location of the
City Planning
disturbing
Significant
monitoring shall be determined by the City in
Department
activities
consultation with the qualified archaeologist
and Native American monitors as outlined in
Project Applicant/
the Monitoring Plan. Should buried cultural
Developer
deposits be encountered, the Monitor may
request that destructive construction halt 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. Additionally, fencing with a buffer
Travertine Final EIR 4-34 July 2024
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Travertine Final EIR 4-35 July 2024
shall be required around resources to be
avoided.
CR -8 In the event that cultural resources are
exposed during excavation, work in the
immediate vicinity of the find must stop until
a qualified archaeologist can evaluate the
significance of the find. Ground -disturbing
activities may continue in other areas. For
discoveries located outside of BLM land, if the
City determines, in consideration of the
subsequent analysis by the qualified
archaeologist, that the resource is a protected
resource under CEQA (Section 15064.5f; PRC
21082) additional work such as testing or data
Qualified
recovery may be warranted prior to
Archaeologist
resumption of ground -disturbing activity in
Prior to any
the location of discovery. For discoveries
City Planning
ground-
Less than
located on BLM-land, if the BLM determines,
Department
disturbing
Significant
in consideration of the subsequent analysis by
activities
the qualified archaeologist, that the resource
Project Applicant/
is protected under Section 106 of the NHPA,
Developer
additional work such as testing or data
recovery may be warranted prior to
resumption of ground -disturbing activity in
the location of discovery. Should any tribal
cultural resources be encountered, additional
consultation with California Native American
Heritage Commission (NAHC)—listed tribal
groups should be conducted in coordination
with the City and/or with the BLM and BOR if
the discovery occurs on federal lands.
c. Disturb human
CR -9 If human remains are encountered, pursuant
During any
remains
to State of California Health and Safety Code
County Coroner
ground-
Less than
Section 7050.5, no further disturbance shall
disturbing
Significant
occur until the Riverside County Coroner has
activities
Travertine Final EIR 4-35 July 2024
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made a determination of origin and
City Planning
disposition pursuant to PRC Section 5097.98.
Department
The Riverside County Coroner must be
notified of the find immediately. Additional
Project Applicant/
procedures for responding to the
Developer
unanticipated discovery of human remains
are outlined below.
Modern Remains
If the Coroner's Office determines the
remains are of modern origin, the appropriate
law enforcement officials will be called by the
Coroner and conduct the required
procedures. Work will not resume until law
enforcement has released the area.
Archaeological Remains
If the remains are determined to be
archaeological in origin, the appropriate
protocol is determined by whether the
discovery site is located on federally or non -
federally owned or managed lands.
Remains Discovered on Federally Owned or
Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined that the
remains are archaeological or historic in age,
the appropriate BLM Palm Springs Field Office
or BOR archaeologist must be called. The
archaeologist will initiate the proper
procedures under the Archaeological
Resources Protection Act and the Native
American Graves Protection and Repatriation
Act (NAGPRA). If the remains can be
determined to be Native American, the steps
as outlined in NAGPRA, 43 Code of Federal
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Regulations [CFR] 10.6 Inadvertent
discoveries, must be followed.
Resumption of Activity: The activity that
resulted in the discovery of human remains
on federal lands may resume after a written,
binding agreement is executed between the
BLM or BOR and federally recognized
affiliated Indian Tribe(s) that adopts a
recovery plan for the excavation or removal of
the human remains, funerary objects, sacred
objects, or objects of cultural patrimony
following 43 CFR Section 10.3(b)(1) of these
regulations. The disposition of all human
remains and NAGPRA items shall be carried
out following 43 CFR 10.6.
Remains Discovered on Non -Federally
Owned/Managed Lands
After the Coroner has determined the
remains on non -federally owned or managed
lands are archaeological, the Coroner will
make recommendations concerning the
treatment and disposition of the remains to
the person responsible for the excavation or
discovery, or to his or her authorized
representative. If the Coroner believes the
remains to be those of a Native American,
he/she shall contact the California NAHC by
telephone within 24 hours. The NAHC will
notify the person it believes to be the most
likely descendant (MLD) of the remains. The
MLD has 48 hours after accessing the site of
the discovery to make recommendations to
the landowner for treatment or disposition of
the human remains. If the MLD does not
make recommendations within 48 hours, the
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landowner shall reinter the remains in an area
of the property secure from further
disturbance. If the landowner does not accept
the descendant's recommendations, the
owner or the descendent may request
mediation by the NAHC
Section 4.6, Geology
and Soils
GEO-1 The Project developer shall implement the
seismic design criteria and parameters, in
a. Expose people or
accordance with ASCE 7-16 and 2019 CBC, as
set forth in the Project geotechnical
City Engineering
structures to
evaluation.
Department
potential substantial
Less than
adverse effects
GEO-2 The design of foundation and slabs (including
Project Applicant/
During...
Significant
involving:
bearing pressure recommendations) shall be
Developer
ii. Strong seismic
in conformance with the recommendations of
ground shaking
the Project structural engineer and as set
d. located on expansive
forth in the Project geotechnical evaluation.
soil
iii. Seismic -related
GEO-3 Grading and excavations shall be performed
ground failure,
in accordance with the City of La Quinta Code
including
and regulations and the General Earthwork
liquefaction
and Grading Specifications set forth in the
c. Located on an
Geotechnical Evaluation. Clearing and
Project Geologist
Unstable Geologic
grubbing of the site shall include removal of
Unit
any pavement or concrete, turf, landscaping,
City Engineering
miscellaneous trash and debris, and disposal
Department
During grading
Less than
of deleterious material offsite. The soil
and excavating
Significant
engineering properties of imported soil (if
Project Applicant/
any) shall be evaluated and certified by the
Developer
Project geologist for use at the development
site.
GEO-4 Unsuitable earth materials shall be removed
prior to placement of compacted fill.
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Unsuitable materials at the site include
undocumented fills and weathered alluvial
fan deposits as set forth in the Project
geotechnical evaluation and as otherwise
directed by the Project geologist.
Excavation and grading to carry Project -
serving roadways over the Dike No. 4 levee for
the proposed Avenue 62 and Madison Street
extensions, as well the Jefferson Street
extension over the Dike No. 2 levee, should
bench into competent existing fills on the
sides with minimal removals on the top (1 to
2 feet). Grading on the levee fill shall be
performed under the direction and
concurrence of the US Bureau of Reclamation
and CVWD.
GEO-5 Where project soils require, they shall be
overexcavated during grading to be replaced
with compacted fill, as set forth in the Project
geotechnical evaluation. The proposed
grading is anticipated to expose cut and fill
transitions at finish grade. Shallow fill areas
and cut portions of lots should be
overexcavated and replaced with compacted
fill to provide a minimum of 4 feet of uniform
fill cap over each lot. Streets should be
overexcavated 2 feet below subgrade to
provide uniform fill below the pavement
section. Alternatively, and as recommended
by the Project geologist, streets may be
overexcavated 2 feet below the deepest utility
to reduce the amount of oversize materials
encountered and facilitate utility
excavation/installation.
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iv. landslides
GEO-4 Unsuitable earth materials shall be removed
prior to placement of compacted fill.
Unsuitable materials at the site include
undocumented fills and weathered alluvial
fan deposits as set forth in the Project
geotechnical evaluation and as otherwise
directed by the Project geologist.
Project Geologist
City Engineering
Department
Project Applicant/
Developer
During grading
and excavating
Less than
Significant
GEO-6 Rockfall hazard analysis should be performed
during the design phase if structures are
Project Geologist
planned within 100 feet of these hillsides (i.e.,
Coral Mountain and Martinez Rockslide) once
City Engineering
During design
Less than
plans are further developed to evaluate this
Department
phase
Significant
hazard and provide site-specific mitigation
recommendations (i.e., impact walls or
Project Applicant/
berms/channels), as required.
Developer
GEO-7 Slopes shall be engineered for stability,
including during seismic events, to reduce
potential slope failure hazards, as set forth in
the Project geotechnical evaluation.
GEO-8 Manufactured Slope Maintenance and
Protection. To reduce the erosion and surficial
Project
slumping potential of the graded slopes,
Geotechnical
permanent manufactured slopes shall be
Engineer
protected from erosion by concrete lining,
City Engineering
During design
Less than
riprap, groundcover planting or other
Department
phase
Significant
appropriate method (i.e., jute matting,
polymer coating, etc.) as approved by the
project Applicant/
Project geologist. These measures shall be
Developer
applied as soon as practicable. Drainage shall
be designed and maintained to collect surface
waters and direct them away from
manufactured slopes and as required by the
Project geologist.
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GEO-9 Structural setbacks, including those for
retaining walls, shall be established as
prescribed by the Project geotechnical
engineer.
b. Erosion
GEO-10 The project proponent shall 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
SWPPP may include, but is not limited to, the
following BMPs:
City Planning &
• Temporary Soil Stabilization: sandbag
Engineering
barriers, straw bale barriers, sediment
Department
Prior to the
Less than
traps, and fiber rolls;
issuance of
Significant
Project Applicant/
grading permits
• Temporary Sediment Control: hydraulic
mulch and geotextiles;
Developer
• Wind Erosion Control: watering of the
construction site, straw mulch;
• Tracking Control: staging/storage area
and street sweeping;
• Non-stormwater Management: clear
water diversion and dewatering; and
• Waste Management and Materials
Pollution Control: vehicle and equipment
cleaning, concrete waste management,
and contaminated soil management.
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d. located on expansive
GEO-11 Expansion Potential. The expansion potential
soil
of the on-site soils is low to very low. In
accordance with the Project geotechnical
City Public Works
Following
evaluation recommendations, additional
Department
completion of
Less than
laboratory testing shall be performed
grading
Significant
following completion of grading operations to
Project Developer
operations
verify the expansion potential of the near -
surface soils.
f. Destroy a unique
GEO-12 A qualified professional paleontologist shall
paleontological
prepare a Paleontological Resources
resource or site or
Monitoring and Mitigation Plan and a
Qualified
Prior to
Less than
unique geologic
Worker's Environmental Awareness Program
Paleontologist
development
Significant
feature
to train the construction crew, both to be
implemented during development.
Section 4.7,
GHG-1: Prior to the issuance of occupancy permits, the
Greenhouse Gas
project applicant shall purchase a minimum of
Emissions
approximately 408,720 MTCO2e credits
(approximately 13,624 MTCO2e per year for
a. GHG Emissions that
30 years). The purchase of carbon credits
may Significantly
must be made from a CARE -approved carbon
Impact the
registry with independent third -party
Environment
verification. Examples of approved registries
include the American Carbon Registry,
City Planning
Prior to the
Climate Action Reserve, and Verra. The
Department
issuance of
Significant and
applicant shall submit documentation of the
occupancy
Unavoidable
Project Applicant
permits
offset purchase to the City demonstrating
that it mitigates a minimum of approximately
13,624 MTCO2e per year (408,720 MTCO2e
over a 30 -year period), priorto any occupancy
of the site. Alternatively, the project applicant
may submit a GHG reduction plan to the City
for approval that achieves an equal level of
GHG reduction outlined herein. The GHG plan
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must include enforceable actions that reduce
GHG emissions to at or below the total
mitigated values presented herein.
GHG-2 All residences shall incorporate roof -top solar
panels, in-home batteries and EV charger
stations to facilitate use of EVs, golf carts and
other low -speed electric vehicles (LSEVs).
GHG-3 All planned single-family homes to be electric -
ready and shall include electrical circuits for
space heating, water heating, cooking/ovens,
and clothes dryers, electrical panel, branch
circuits, and transfer switch for battery
storage.
GHG-4 Dedicated circuits and panels in residential and
commercial buildings shall be provided to
easily convert from natural gas to electric in
the future.
GHG-5 All non-residential components of the
development where vehicle parking is
provides shall also provide EV chargers.
GHG-6 All household and other appliances shall be of
the highest energy efficiency rating, such as
Energy Star, practicable at the time of
purchase.
GHG-7 To limit and reduce energy use associated with
water consumption, all project landscaping
shall be desert and other drought tolerant
vegetation. The use of turf shall be kept to a
minimum.
GHG-8 All HVAC systems shall be Very High Efficiency
HVAC (SEER 16/80% AFUE or 9 HSPF) or
greater efficiency.
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GHG-9 All domestic hot water systems shall be Very
High Efficiency Water Heater (0.92 Energy
Factor) with Enhanced Solar Pre -heat System
(min. 0.35 Net Solar Fraction).
GHG-10 All potable water fixtures shall have EPA
WaterSense Certification or greater
efficiency.
Section 4.9, Hazards
HAZ-1 Prior to grading, Limited Phase II Subsurface
and Hazardous
Investigation shall be required. The Limited
Materials
Phase II Subsurface Investigation shall be
conducted by an Environmental Professional
a&b. The proposed
as defined in Section 312.10 of 40 CFR Part
Project would result
312.
in SI related to the
• Per Section 312.10, an Environmental
transport, use, or
Professional is an environmental
disposal of hazardous
consultant that has an accredited
materials during
Environmental
construction and
education in earth or natural science, at
professional
least five years of formal training under
operation;
d. sites listed pursuant
another environmental professional, a
Cit Planning &
y g
Less than
to Government Code
professional state license, and maintains
Engineering
Prior to grading
Significant
Section 65962.5.
expert knowledge in the environmental
Department
geology, sustainability, and engineering
fields.
Project Applicant
• If chemicals exceeding regulatory
thresholds are identified during the
Phase II study, the Project will develop a
Soils Management Plan. The Phase II
study will be conducted pursuant to
ASTM E1903-19 industry standards.
HAZ-2 A site-specific Soils Management Plan (SMP)
shall be developed by an Environmental
Professional for the Project property if
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chemical levels exceeding regulatory
thresholds are identified during the Limited
Phase II Subsurface Investigation. The SMP
shall be implemented during excavation and
grading of the Project, and describe the
protocol for managing (potentially
contaminated) soils and disposing of
(potentially hazardous) debris, as well as
guidelines for handling known and/or
undocumented subsurface features if
discovered.
HAZ-3 All agricultural related debris, materials, and
foundations shall be removed and hauled to
City Planning &
an appropriate landfill prior to land
Engineering
disturbance in the previous vineyard area. If
Department
Less than
significant soil staining is found at previous
Didi
During grang
Significant
storage locations, stained soil shall be
Project Applicant
excavated and disposed of in an approved
landfill.
HAZ-4 In compliance with the Construction General
Permit (CGP) (Order No. 2009-009-DWQ as
amended by 2010-0014-DWQ and 2012-
0006-DWQ), the Project shall develop and
implement a project -specific Stormwater
Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) for
City Planning &
construction of the project. The SWPPP shall
Engineering
include comprehensive handling, storage, and
Department
Prior to the
Less than
issuance
management procedures for building
Project Applicant/
its
grading permits
Significant
materials, especially those that are hazardous
Developer
and toxic. The designation of staging areas for
activities (i.e., fueling and maintaining
vehicles, mixing paints, plaster, mortar, etc.),
and storage of hazardous materials (i.e.,
paints, solvents, pesticides, fuels, oils, etc.)
shall be determined in the SWPPP. Best
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management practices (BMPs) are required in
the SWPPP that demonstrate proper material
delivery and storage; material use; and spill
prevention and control. The SWPPP may
include, but is not limited to, the following
BMPs:
• Temporary Soil Stabilization: sandbag
barriers, straw bale barriers, sediment
traps, and fiber rolls;
• Temporary Sediment Control: hydraulic
mulch and geotextiles;
• Wind Erosion Control: watering of the
construction site, straw mulch;
• Tracking Control: staging/storage area
and street sweeping;
• Non-stormwater Management: clear
water diversion and dewatering; and
• Waste Management and Materials
Pollution Control: vehicle and equipment
cleaning, concrete waste management,
and contaminated soil management.
Lastly, and upon project completion of
construction, all hazardous materials shall be
removed from the project site and a Notice of
Termination (NOT) shall be filed with the
Regional Water Quality Control Board.
HAZ-5 Prior to the development of the golf facility
RCFD
storage and maintenance facilities, the
Prior to the
applicant shall provide a Hazardous Materials
City Planning &
Less than
development of
Business Plan (HMBP) to the Riverside County
Engineering
Significant
the golf facility
Fire Department for review and approval, if
Department
necessary. The HMBP shall be kept up to date
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in a location on-site and be available for
Project Applicant/
review by the Riverside County Fire
Developer
Department, as needed.
HAZ-6 Should any component of the proposed
Project require the storage or handling of
hazardous materials in quantities greater
than or equal to 55 gallons of a liquid
County of Riverside
substance, 500 pounds of a solid substance,
DEH
or 200 cubic feet of compressed gas, it shall
be required to follow the procedures
City Planning
established in Chapter 6.95 of the HSC, which
Department
Prior to business
Less than
requires any business handling and/or storing
Significant
a hazardous material shall obtain a permit
Project Applicant/
from the DEH and electronically submit a
Developer
business plan in the Statewide Informational
Management System, under the
administration of the County of Riverside
DEH.
City Planning &
HAZ-7 If onsite wells are determined to be
Engineering
inoperable, they shall be properly capped and
Department
Less than
abandoned prior to grading activities in the
Pi
ror to grading
Significant
existing wellsite areas.
Project Applicant/
Developer
City Planning &
HAZ-8 The Project shall consult an asbestos inspection
Engineering
consultant for a comprehensive asbestos survey
Department
Prior to
Less than
prior to demolition of the project site.
demolition
Significant
Project Applicant/
Developer
Section 4.10 Hydrology
HWQ-1 The Operations and Maintenance (O&M) plan
and Water Quality
shall include provisions to monitor and remove
CVWD
Prior to approval
Less than
of final design
Significant
sediment along the west bank to maintain the
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civ. Impede or redirect
flood flows
d. risk release of
pollutants due to
project inundation
required conveyance and freeboard conditions.
Other aspects of the bank maintenance shall be
identified based on the final design configuration
of the systems. A Flood Control Facilities
Operations and Maintenance Manual for the
proposed improvements shall be prepared and
submitted to CVWD for review and approval. The
manual shall meet the requirements of Section
5.8.9 of the Development Design Manual.
City Public Works
and Engineering
Department
Project
Applicant/Developer
Section 4.11, Noise
N0I-1 Grading and building plans shall require
project construction activities comply with
a. Generation of noise
the City of La Quinta Municipal Code
levels in excess of
requirements pertaining to construction
established
noise.
standards
N0I-2 During all project site construction, the
b. Generation of
construction contractors shall equip all
excessive
construction equipment, fixed or mobile, with
groundborne
properly operating and maintained mufflers,
Prior to the
vibration
consistent with manufacturers standards.
City Planning &
approval of
The construction contractor shall place all
Public Works
grading plans
stationary construction equipment so that
Department
and/or issuance
Less than
emitted noise is directed away from the noise
of building
Significant
sensitive receivers nearest the project site.
Project Applicant/
permits
N0I-3 The construction contractor shall locate
Developer
equipment staging in areas that will create
the greatest distance between construction -
related noise sources and noise -sensitive
receivers nearest the project site during all
project construction.
N0I-4 The construction contractor shall limit
construction haul truck deliveries to the hours
permitted by the City of La Quinta. The
contractor shall also design delivery routes to
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minimize the exposure of sensitive land uses
or residential dwellings to delivery truck -
related noise.
N0I-5 Prior to water well drilling, the construction
City Planning &
contractor shall provide a temporary 24 -foot-
Public Works
Prior to water
high noise barrier capable of reducing noise
Department
p
well drilling
Less than
during well construction activities to 80 dBA Leq
Significant
or less.
Project Applicant/
Developer
Section 4.14, Public
PS -1: Travertine Fire Master Plan (FMP) was
Services
developed to analyze emergency access to
the Project and determine and implement
a. Fire Protection
strategies at the Project site to improve RCFD
and CAL Fire operations and service delivery.
The FMP and Addendum FMP were required
to be prepared to address adequate fire
protection for the area and mitigate
potentially unacceptable response times in
RCFD
the interior of the Project. The FMP further
states that conformance to the full circulation
City Fire & Building
Prior to issuance
plan is required for any additional
Department
of Occupancy
Less than
development beyond Phase 1 of the Project.
Permit
Significant
The later phases of development would
Project
include the improvement of Jefferson Street,
Applicant/Developer
which would provide emergency access to the
Project. Full buildout of the Project is
evaluated in the Addendum FMP.
The Project applicant shall implement the
safety measures established in the Travertine
Fire Master Plan which include the following:
• approved emergency access points;
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• roadway design standards for fire
protection vehicles;
• minimum water quantity and
pressure necessary for firefighting;
All developer plans showing fire system
connections shall provide information on the
type of fire system that is being installed for
the development (e.g., wet -pipe fire sprinkler
systems, deluge fire sprinkler systems and dry
pipe and precaution fire systems).
A fire flow of 2,375 gallons per minute for 2 -
hour duration at 20 psi shall be required at
the Project in accordance with Appendix B of
the California Fire Code. For residential areas,
approved standard fire hydrants, located at
each intersection, with no portion of any lot
frontage more than a maximum of 500 feet
from the hydrant shall be provided. Minimum
fire flow for all residential structures shall be
875 gallons per minute for a 1 -hour duration
at 20 psi operating pressure. Fire hydrant
spacing shall be in accordance with Appendix
C of the California Fire Code. Both
requirements must be available prior to
placing any combustible materials on the job
site.
The fire system plans shall be submitted to
CVWD to review the complexity and type of
proposed fire system.
PS -2: The Addendum to the Fire Master Plan ensures
adequate fire protection for the area through
the following enhanced mitigation measures.
• building construction standards;
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• emergency power facilities for the
proposed booster stations;
• an area of refuge;
• optic -con sensors located to open gates
ahead of fire engine arrival;
• implementation of a community
emergency response team (FEMA)
programs; and
HOA/community training for CPR and AED and
risk reduction programs.
Section 4.13,
Mitigation Measures
Transportation
TRA -1 Project mitigation may include a combination
of a fair share of fee payments to the affected
a. Conflict with an
jurisdiction, construction of specific
applicable plan or
improvements and reimbursement to the
policy addressing
Project proponent to account for proponent
the circulation
fair share of improvement, or a combination
system
of these approaches. The Summary of 2040
c. Increase hazards
due to a geometric
Intersection Improvements (Table 4.16-26)
City Public Works
Prior to the
design feature
are set forth below, are feasible and will
Department
issuance of
Less than
d. Result in inadequate
mitigate Project impacts for all three access
grading and
Significant
emergency access
options discussed above to levels that are less
Project Applicant
building permits.
than significant.
The following improvements are
recommended by the TIA:
• Monroe Street at Avenue 52(#14) —
Install traffic signal control; Provide
separate northbound left turn lane,
provide second northbound through
lane.
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• Monroe Street at Avenue 60 (#10) —
Construct traffic signal improvements
for eventual reimbursement via the City
of La Quinta.
In addition to General Plan geometrics,
provide the following lanes:
■ SB Approach: Provide separate
right turn lane
■ EB Approach: Provide separate
right turn lane with right turn
overlap phase
■ WB Approach: Provide 2nd through
lane
• Madison Street at Avenue 58 (#1) —
Install traffic signal control; provide
second eastbound through lane.
In addition to General Plan geometrics,
provide the following lanes:
EB Approach: Convert inside
through lane into 2nd left turn lane.
• Madison Street at Avenue 54 (0) —
Install traffic signal control; Convert
eastbound de facto right turn lane into
free right turn lane.
• Jefferson Street at Avenue 50 (#8) —
Provide second westbound through
lane. (This intersection is located in
both the City of La Quinta and the City
of Indio. The proposed improvement is
in the City of Indio.)
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• Jefferson Street at Avenue 54 (#6) —
Install traffic signal control, convert 2nd
eastbound through lane into right turn
lane, provide westbound right turn
overlap phasing.
• Monroe Street at Avenue 58 (#11) —
Install traffic signal control, provide
separate northbound left turn lane,
provide separate northbound right turn
lane, provide separate southbound left
turn lane, provide separate eastbound
left turn lane, provide separate
westbound left turn lane; Provide
separate northbound left turn lane.
In addition to General Plan geometrics,
provide the following lanes:
■ NB Approach: Provide 2nd left turn
lane, add right turn overlap phase
to right turn lane
■ SB Approach: Provide 2nd left turn
lane
■ EB Approach: Provide separate
right turn lane
• Monroe Street at Airport Blvd (#12) —
Install traffic signal control
• Monroe Street at Avenue 54 (#13) —
Install traffic signal control, provide
separate southbound left turn lane,
provide separate westbound left turn
lane; provide second northbound
through lane, provide second
southbound through lane.
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• Jefferson Street at Avenue 52 (#7) —
reconstruct the current roundabout
design to incorporate 2 circulating lanes
around the center island to
accommodate an additional through
lane in the northbound and
southbound directions.
• Jackson Street at Avenue 58 (#18) —
Install traffic signal control (This
intersection is located in the County of
Riverside).
• Jackson Street at Airport Boulevard
(#19)— Install traffic signal control. (This
intersection is located in the County of
Riverside).
• Monroe Street at Avenue 62 (#9) —
Install traffic signal control, provide
northbound shared left -through -right
lane, provide separate eastbound left
turn lane, provide separate westbound
right turn lane. (This intersection is
located in the City of La Quinta at the
northwest corner, and in the County of
Riverside at the northeast, southwest
and southeast corners).
In addition to General Plan geometrics,
provide the following lanes:
■ SB Approach: Provide 2nd left turn
lane, add right turn overlap phase
to existing right turn lane
■ EB Approach: Convert through -
right lane into left -through -right
lane
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■ WB Approach: Provide separate
left turn lane
• Jackson Street at Avenue 62 (#16) —
Install traffic signal control. (This
intersection is located in the County of
Riverside.)
• Jackson Street at Avenue 60 (#17) —
Provide traffic signal. (This intersection
is located in the County of Riverside.)
TRA -2: Traffic Control Plan
Prior to obtaining a grading permit, the
applicant shall prepare and submit the City of
La Quinta for review and approval detailed
construction traffic management plans,
including street closure information, detour
plans, haul routes, and staging plans as
necessary for any off-site work that would
encroach on public right-of-way. The
construction traffic management plans shall
include the following elements, as
appropriate:
• Provisions for temporary traffic control
during all construction activities
adjacent to public right-of-way to
improve traffic flow on public roadways
(e.g., flag person);
• Construction -related vehicles shall not
park on surrounding public streets;
• Provision of safety precautions for
pedestrians and bicyclists through such
measures as alternate routing and
protection barriers;
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Travertine Final EIR 4-56 July 2024
• Schedule construction -related deliveries
to reduce travel during peak travel
periods;
• Obtain the required permits for truck
haul routes from the County of Riverside,
the City of Rancho Mirage, the City of
Palm Desert, and Cathedral City prior to
the issuance of any permit for the
project; and
• Obtain a Caltrans transportation permit
for use of oversized transport vehicles on
Caltrans facilities.
• Outline adequate measures to ensure
emergency vehicle access during all
aspects of the project's construction,
including, but not limited to, the use of
flagmen during partial closures to streets
surrounding the project site to facilitate
the traffic flow until construction is
complete.
Include the implementation of security measures
during construction in areas that are accessible
to the general public to help reduce any
increased demand on law enforcement services,
including fencing construction areas, providing
security lighting, and providing security
personnel to patrol construction sites.
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Section 4.17, Tribal
Cultural Resources
a. Cause substantial
Qualified
adverse change in
Archaeologist
significance of tribal
cultural resource
Native American
Prior to and
that is
Monitors
during ground
Less than
i. A site listed in the
See CR -1 through CR -9
disturbing
CRHR or Local
City Planning
activities
Significant
Register, Tribal
Department
Cultural Resources
ii. A resource
Project Applicant/
determined to be
Developer
significant to a
California Native
American tribe.
Section 4.18, Utilities
CVWD
and Service Systems
City Public Works
a. stormwater impact
See HWQ-1
and Engineering
Prior to approval
Less than
Department
of final design
Significant
Project
Applicant/Developer
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Table 4-2 Travertine Specific Plan Amendment Project Design Features
Project Design Features
4.1 Aesthetics
PDF AES -1
All construction equipment will be stored onsite within a designated area that is fenced with opaque construction
fencing in order to reduce temporary visual impacts. Construction waste will be stored in an area that is accessible
to weekly refuse pick up. All construction waste will be taken to a recycling center.
PDF AES -2
The Avenue 62 crossing over Dike No. 4 shall include a concrete barrier at the edge of the right-of-way of Avenue
62 over Dike No. 4. The concrete barrier shall be embossed in an aesthetically pleasing manner to further blend
the crossing of Avenue 62 with its surroundings.
4.2 Air Quality
PDF AQ -1
To reduce water demands and associated energy use, subsequent development proposals within the Project
property would be required to implement a Water Conservation Strategy and demonstrate a minimum 20%
reduction in indoor and outdoor water usage, consistent with the current CalGreen Building Code performance
standards for residential and non-residential land uses, achieved in part through the schedule of plumbing fixtures
and fixture fittings that will reduce indoor use and efficient irrigation systems for outdoor use.
PDF AQ -2
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.
4.2 Air Quality
PDF 13I0-1
Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the Project proponent shall implement the recommendations of the Project
Drainage Study (DEIR, Appendix J.3) and in accordance with the recommendations of the Project Drainage Plan
prior to issuance of a grading permit obtain a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. The Project Proponent shall obtain a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) prior to
issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy.
4.6 Energy Resources
PDF ENR -1
The Project shall, consistent with the Specific Plan Amendment incorporate complementary land uses near one
another in order to decrease VMTs since trips between land use types are shorter and may be accommodated by
non -auto modes of transport.
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PDF ENR -2
The Project property includes sidewalk connections, trail networks (i.e., strolling trails, Community Grand Loop trail,
and interconnector trails), and a Class II bike path. The sidewalk connections, trails, and bike paths would minimize
barriers to pedestrian access and interconnectivity.
PDF ENR -3
The Project will be required to implement Title 24's Residential Mandatory Measures and Appliance Energy
Efficiency Standards (Title 20) in effect at the time of construction, which require the installation of solar
photovoltaic systems to newly constructed, low-rise residential buildings, high efficiency lighting, and application
of energy efficient design building shells and building components, such as windows, roof systems, electrical lighting
systems, and heating, ventilating and air conditioning systems.
PDF ENR -4
The Project will install water -efficient plumbing fixtures and irrigation systems, LED technology, and drought -
tolerant plants in landscaping.
4.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
PDF GHG-1
The Project will consider the solar orientation of buildings to reduce impact of the development with natural
environment.
PDF GHG-2
The Project will implement passive and active solar systems to take advantage and consider the year -around
abundant sunshine.
4.8 Greenhouse Gas Emissions
PDF HWQ-1
The Grand Loop Trail may from, time to time, be declared temporarily closed due to heightened public safety
concerns, with entry restricted or prohibited. Public safety conditions may include, but are not limited to, wet
conditions, natural debris, or seasonal closure.
PDF HWQ-2
Prior to grading, recordation, or other final approval, the Project proponent shall obtain coverage under the NPDES
General Permit for Storm Water Discharges Associated with Construction and Land Disturbance Activities
(Construction General Permit). Project construction shall comply with all applicable requirements specified in the
Construction General Permit, including but not limited to, preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan
(SWPPP), a signed certification statements, and any other compliance -related documents required by the permit,
to the State Water Resources Control Board.
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4.0 MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM
PDF HWQ-3
Prior to issuance of a grading permit, the Project proponent shall implement the recommendations of the Project
Drainage Study (DEIR, Appendix J.3) and in accordance with the recommendations of the Project Drainage Plan
prior to issuance of a grading permit obtain a Conditional Letter of Map Revision (CLOMR) from the Federal
Emergency Management Agency. The Project Proponent shall obtain a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) prior to
issuance of the first Certificate of Occupancy.
4.11 Land Use and Planning
PDF LU -1
Consistent with the Travertine Specific Plan Amendment, the Project will offer a variety of housing and recreational
amenities. The housing sizes and styles will be designed to meet the needs of all age groups. The recreational
amenities will include a 5 -mile -long public trail that will be developed around the perimeter of the Project property;
a central private spine trail that bisects the residential areas of the property; on -street bike paths; preservation of
natural open space; additional private parks located within the development area; a skills golf course and golf
academy; and a resort and spa with restaurants, shops and activities.
4.14 Public Services
PDF PS -1
The Project and residential areas shall be gated, with the intention of increasing community security and minimizing
potential crimes, and consistent with standard operations of resort communities, the proposed resort will
incorporate private security services to maximize security of the overall Project. Additionally, lighting features
throughout the Project will enhance security and maximize visibility within the Project streets, intersections, and
other crosswalks.
PDF PS -2
All water mains and fire hydrants providing the required fire flows will be constructed in accordance with the City
Fire Code Appendix B and Appendix C in effect at the time of development.
4.16 Transportation
PDF TR -1
The project will implement marketing strategies to optimize interaction between on-site resort and residential uses.
Information sharing and marketing are important components to successful trip reduction strategies. Marketing
strategies will include:
• Resident member benefits that include use of the resort amenities
• Event promotions
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• Publications
PDF TR -2
The Project property includes sidewalk connections and would minimize barriers to pedestrian access and
interconnectivity.
Travertine Final EIR 4-61 July 2024