HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-07-2024 email re 2805 Anza Trail ITEM #4aFrom:Mark Luellen
To:Sarah Yoon; Planning
Subject:MAJOR ALTERATION OF A CLASS 3 SITE LOCATED AT 2805 ANZA TRAIL (APN 510-140-013) HDEMO 2024-0005
Date:Tuesday, May 7, 2024 3:25:31 PM
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Subject: Concerns Regarding Project Recommendation for 2805 Anza Trail.
Dear Historic Sites Preservation Board:
I am writing to express my concerns regarding the Department's recommendation of "takeno action" on the proposed project to build a single family home on the subdivided lot at2805 Anza Trail. It has come to my attention that this recommendation was made withouta complete historic resource evaluation having been prepared. A site such as this is veryrare in Palm Springs and its features and related modest vernacular desert residence mayshed useful information about the early settlement of the Araby Tract.
As you most likely witnessed first hand, this parcel holds particular interests due to its rarityas an undeveloped lot hosting a diverse array of desert cacti and small-scale features thatcould tell the story of the site's history and use. Recent observations indicate that work toremove some of the small-scale features such as an entrance gate, low rock walls and amonumental ocotillo has already begun. As a member of the community and someonedeeply invested in the preservation of our city's heritage, I urge you to reconsider staffrecommendation and at minimum require historic resource evaluation by a qualifiedhistorian be prepared before any further steps are taken with the project. Staff'srecommendation appears to be based on a very cursory review of information and no indepth research has been performed and that its integrity has been compromised by thesubdivision. Understanding our city's history is crucial for maintaining its unique characterand attracting visitors who appreciate its cultural heritage.
Furthermore, I believe that given the size of the parcels and the current housing shortagein Palm Springs, it would be more beneficial to develop the site with multi-family housingor at least an ADU. This would not only help alleviate the housing crisis but also contributeto the diversity and vibrancy of our community.
I respectfully request that the Historic Site Preservation Board and the PlanningDepartment reevaluate the project and consider alternative development options thatprioritize both the investigation into the site's history and its place within our city's historyas well the needs of our growing population.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to hearing from you soonregarding the steps that will be taken to address these concerns.
Sincerely,
Mark Luellen
Araby Commons Resident