HomeMy WebLinkAbout9/27/2007 - STAFF REPORTS - 1.A. Q pPI.Ms
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES
•CgSIFOF�P, MEMORANDUM
Date: September 27, 2007
To: City Council
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Subject: General Plan Update
Chia Road
Staff received numerous letters to both the Planning Commission and the City Council
from the neighborhood association adjacent to Chia Road requesting the Chia Road
segment between Sunrise Way and Farrell be removed from the General Plan. Staff
has recommended the roadway segment remain in the General Plan Circulation Map.
Following is the recommendation from the City Engineer from Errata Sheet #13 which
proposes what Staff feels is a reasonable way of addressing the neighborhood's
concerns.
Errata Sheet #13, item 44: regarding the Traffic Analysis in General Plan Appendix B,
Page 37, eighth paragraph, revise to read:
"Chia Road is identified as a Collector on the current General Plan
Circulation Element, extending from Sunrise Way to Farrell Drive.
However, the segment between Cerritos Road and Farrell Drive does not
exist, and the adjacent area is undeveloped. It is recommended that Chia
Road remain identified as a Collector on General Plan Circulation
Element, extending from Sunrise Way to Farrell Drive, as it would
complete a portion of the City's grid-like circulation system in that area.
However, it is further recommended that at the time the vacant area east
of Cerritos Road and north of Chia Road is proposed for development,
that a project specific traffic impact study evaluate the need for extension
of Chia Road from Cerritos Road to Farrell Drive. As Chia Road is a
limited length Collector, extending less than one-half mile if a proiect
specific traffic impact study determines extension of Chia Road to Farrell
Drive is unnecessary, a future General Plan Amendment should be
considered at that time to delete Chia Road as Collector on the General
Plan Circulation Element, extending from Sunrise Way to Farrell Drive."
3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
TEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322.8360 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON@PALMSPRINGS-CA.GOV
OFpplMs4 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
" DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES
C.14, OR MEMORANDUM
Date: September 27, 2007
To: City Council
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Cc: Craig Ewing, Tom Wilson, David Ready, Jay Thompson
Subject: General Plan Update
Proposed text revisions received from Chris Mills on 9-25-07
In the City Council Special Workshop session of September 17, 2007, Council directed Staff to
work with individual Council members on any remaining text revisions desired. Staff met with
Councilmember Mills on September 25, 2007 and the following pages denote the changes
proposed by Mr. Mills.
There are also two additional discussions items summarized below:
Page 9-68 Action CD28.1; Does the Council want to update the preservation ordinance to
provide a clear review process for the development or alteration of survey properties? (this
action item had been written prior to the Council/HSPB study session of May 23, 2007 at which
this item was discussed)
Page 9-77 Action Item CD33.2; Shall the General Plan include an action item to remove
billboards adjacent to the freeway?
3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
TEL= (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON@PALMSPRINGS-CA.GOV
I . i4DMINIISTRATION
1. 1 PREFACE
Our City is unlike any other—we have a reputation as a world class desert
resort and we are one of the nation's most recognized winter playgrounds.
We are proud of the timeless character of our Downtown, our celebrated
history with the Hollywood entertainment community,our rel=Ld desert
lifestyle, our distinctive collection o midcer ei!n architecture,
and our idyllic location at the foothills of a picturesque mountain setting.
Palm Springs' eclectic nature creates a desirable environment for
a variety of lifestyles. Artists, retirees, professionals, singles, new
families, and permanent and seasonal residents all call Palm Springs
home. As,part of this General Plan, we are embarking on many positive
changes for the City's future. Embracing the positive energy and active
involvement of our citizens, the City will continue to take the necessary
steps to improve our community and to achieve our vision.
As Riverside County's population continues to grow,it will be imperative
for Palm Springs to develop strategies to sustain the vitality and unique
charm of the City while managing the imminent growth of our City's
population. We will:
Achieve a quality of life and delicate balance of land uses that
make Palm Springs a desirable place to live.
Position the City to attract businesses that stimulate the City's
economy.
Provide recreational and resort opportunities that will strplx�r-t
strcnathen the City's i reputation as a premier desert retreat.
This chapterprovides a broad overview of the General Plan—how it was
created, what it is to achieve, and how it should be used. It also provides
� toils
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Chanq@5 Version Page -1
LAND USE ELEMENT
Mixed-use/Multi-use (Maximum of 15 dwelling units per acre for
residential uses and a maximum 0.50 FAR for nonresidential uses).
Specific uses intended in these areas include community-serving retail
commercial,professional offices,service businesses,restaurants,daycare
centers, public and quasi-public uses. Residential development at a
maximum density of 15 units per acre is permitted;planned development N(7 k
districts ma a ow rest entlal dcntiities up to 30 u:acre me also IDUSI_`t N67�
regsrre e an u7e aretr=ensure ttat a proposed
uses are properly integrated and tom--allow the implementation of
development standards that are customized to each site.
23 SPECIAL POLICY AREAS
Special Policy Area designations have been applied in two areas of the
City: the Chino Cone and Palm Hills. Due to the environmental and
visual importance of these two areas, projects proposed within either
Special Policy Area must be of superior design, demonstrate integration
with existing natural features and land forms, be sensitive to biological
resources of the site, and create a more desirable living environment than
could be achieved through conventional subdivision design and
requirements.
Development densities in the Chino Cone are one dwelling unit per forty
acres (I du/40 ac). Development applications in excess of this density
may be considered with the submittal of Specific Plan and its associated
environmental documentation, which would by action, alscr--cue
establish 'a general plan amendment. In all cases, development within
the Chino Cone Special Policy Area must be consistent with the
Environmentally Sensitive Development Areas Specific Plan Ordinance
(ESA-SP) in the Palm Springs Zoning Code.
The Palm Hills Special Policy Area allows residential and resort
development at a maximum of 1 dwelling unit/hotel unit per acre,not to
exceed a total of 1,200 units. Any development proposed in the Palm
Hills area will require the preparation of a Specific Plan
and a related environmental impact report.
mills
5tat'f
Palm Springs General Plan i Track changes Version Page 2.13
LAND USE ELEMENT
The Parks, Recreation,Open Space and Conservation Element addresses
in further detail the amount and location of public, private, active, and
passive parkland available within the City and areas where additional
parkland is recommended.
LU GOAL I:
Establish a balanced pattern of land uses that complements the
pattern and character of existing uses, offers opportunities for the
intensification of key targeted sites,minimizes adverse environmental
impacts, and has positive economic results.
Policies
LU_1.1 Ensure that development meets or exceeds requirements and
standards specified within each land use designation.
LU 1.2 Encourage the exchange of public and private lands and the
consolidation of parcels to create buildable sites and to achieve
greater efficiency of land use.
LU 1.3 Ensure that new land use projects are built with adequate utility
and municipal infrastructure capacity to support them.
LU 1.4 Encourage the expansion of existing facilities or the introduction
of new uses that are considered to be of significant importance
and contribute exceptional benefits to the City_
LU 1.5 Allow for flexible development standards provided that the
potential benefits and merit of projects can be balanced with
potential impacts.
LU 1.6 Encourage and support projects of exceptional design and architec-
tural quality, societal benefit (historic or environmental
sustainability), or revenue generation through incentives in the
review process.
LU 1.7 Require new construction to mitigate impacts on the pty's
housing, schools, public open space, childcare facilities`, and
other public needs.
(NI1LL5) Hol;4'can we mandate rn¢ration nn childcare lhttligcc' f -r � U/ltJ_. I�LW
PSl:i7C; lencr of - -0 cnttintenL is . tat•e _aWv CN c maX11MI 11 Ictcl of ,�/t5
tnitleation that can be arnlied to schuol 4 jccts Staff duc>nc t di5acIeQ this pulity
i5 ennal.tetI[ with that 9tatenienL:no ehanw tb recoinniended-
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Changes Version Page 2.27
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
-DESTINATION , IMAGE,', ,
Palm Springs has always embraced its reputation as a world class resort,
holding such titles as "America's premier- desert resort city," and
"America's Resortport." Minutes away from any location in town are
bike paths, hiking and equestrian trails, parks, tennis courts, and golf
courses. The City is also home to the Palm Springs Art Museum, the air
museum, and Knott's Soak City Water Park, which are geared toward
family recreation and entertainment-
Year-round special events blend sophistication and relaxation in a style
that is typically Palm Springs. Locals and visitors enjoy marry of the
City's unique events such as the Concourse d'Elegance,the Palm Springs
International Film Festival, and Villagefest, the City's weekly outdoor
marketplace.
The City currently is host to over two million visitors annually. Palm
Springs maintains the largest number of hotel rooms in the Coachella
Valley: 6,500 of the total 15,865 rooms (source: Economic Conditions
and Trends Report, 2005). These accommodations range from small,
three-room boutique orbed-and-breakfast-style inns located in residential
neighborhoods to multistory resort hotels designed to accommodate
larger corporate events-
In addition, the Convention Center serves as a major center of business
and tourist activity within the City. Providing approximately 211,400
square feet of conference facilities,the Convention Centergenerates large
numbers of conference attendees who support nearby hotel and
convention-related businesses and who often extend their stays to take
advantage of the recreational activities that Palm Springs has to offer The
City should constantly assess how it can continue to draw increasing
numbers of visitors and provide them with a special experience that keeps
them returning year after year.
Maintaining its status as a premier resort destination is a primary priority
for the City.The General Plan land use patterns reflect a concentration of
tourist commercial uses predominantly comprised of commercial and
hotel uses along Palm Canyon Drive and Tahquitz Canyon Drive. The
small-scale boutique hotels that are found among the residential
neighborhoods in the Warm Sands and Tennis Club areas also contribute
to the City's charm and its appeal to resort visitors. Development within
these areas must be carefully designed and planned to ensure that it
continues to reflect the City's vision of being a "world class desert
community"
Page 2-36 Track Changes Version]Palm Springs General Plan
LAND USE ELEMENT
medical offices, including the Desert Resort Regional Medical Center,
and specialty shopping in the Heritage District.The primary purpose of
mixed-use center in the Uptown area is to generate a synergy between
complementary uses that can ultimately result in a gathering place for
residents and businesses in the northern end of the City.
Preferred mix of uses: 30-40 percent residential, 30-40 percent
commercial, 20-30 percent office
Vsta Chino and Sunrise W iy
This comer is surrounded by an established single-family neighborhood
to the north and west,and neighborhood commercial uses to the east and
south. Smaller-scale, neighborhood-serving, commercial development
integrated with a unique residential opportunity is envisioned for this site,
providing a gathering place within walking distance for the residents
living in the adjacent neighborhoods. The character and scale of this
mixed-use area is smaller than those along Palm Canyon Drive; building
design should maintain a lower profile consistent with the heights of the
adjacent uses.
Preferred mix of uses: 60-70 percent residential, 30-40 percent
commercial
Palm Carryon Drive and Sunny Dunes.Road
The Sunny Dunes and Palm Canyon Drive mixed/multi-use area
currently contains scattered commercial uses and large vacant parcels.
Different from the mixed/multi-use areas identified above, the Palm
Canyon Drive and Sunny Dunes Road area is envisioned as a
netitesidentia-l—mixed-use area creating an office,—aftd retail__ and
residential node just south of Downtown. This mix of use will
complement the hotel uses along East Palm Canyon Drive by providing
a concentrated commercial and office base in close proximity to visitor
accotmnodations.
�i�Y�-� �17 ( t`1GLlJJ7E
Preferred mix of uses: 30-650 percent commercial, 430--750 percent �GS1flFi �"C1At� Tp
office, 15 — 20% residential.
Smoke Tree s2R CJ�S � ryllX
The Smoke Tree mixed-use area is located along East Palm Canyon OF OSFIS
Drive, between Sunrise Way and Parnell Drive. Smoke Tree is ideally
located to serve the needs of surrounding residential neighborhoods, and
is characterized by its intimate scale,pedestrian orientation, and vibrant
human activity. The purpose of this area is to create a unique mixed-use
Palm springs General Plan I Track Changes Version Page 2-41
LAND USE ELEMENT
The City should continue its policies for open space acquisition
and desir=nation I which approximately 3'0" acres have been
acquired (as of 200 ncludin mitt atioa� of develn er i s� ZkT7D �
through land dedicatio density transfer` n payment of in-lieu
fees,acceptance of gifts o1 land,o taming ederal and state grants
for conservation, working with regional conservation agencies,
and developing other funding sources.
LU GQAL 9:
Preserve the City's unique mountain resources for future
generations.
Policies
LL19-1 Design and landscape hillside development and development
adjacent to natural areas to preserve natural features and habitat
and to protect structures from natural disasters, such as wildfires
and floods-
LU92 Preserve the frontal slopes of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto
Mountains above the toe of the slope-
Li 79-3 Preserve the unique topographic and geologic features of the City
LU9.4 Windfarm development on hillsides visible from scenic highways
and corridors or on slopes of 15 percent or greater should
demonstrate no significant adverse aesthetic impacts or provide
adequate mitigation prior to approval-
LU9.5 Encourage public acquisition and placement into public trust of
environmentally sensitive hillside areas.
LU9.6 Prohibit motorized vehicles within mountainous areas, except on
City-approved roads.
LU9-7 Encourage the use of mountains for recreational purposes so as
not to degrade habitat areas-, existing trails will be maintained and
new trail links can be developed-
LU9.8 Use only native plant species in areas adjacent to naturalized open
space and mountainous areas to prevent invasive and non-native
plant species fiom propagating in these areas.Exotic plant species
such as fountain grass, Tamarisk, Mexican Fan Palm, and exotic
\4t11,
Palm Springs General Plan I Track changes Version Page 2.45
-f7CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
Mountains and San J Mountains in their natural state-aad
�� Ste{ a��uvial 1=are'I.`` a. r r�n ._« : i. ., dew. -stead
iFPt-��-RUn �3im `�,�.,.:c:,�-3t7E�� '*i1tH�ftiii3tlti•-h?Ti—I-hC
presarw atit-rr t�_3' � �f aadA4airagcmr t-(W-M)a e
e:--k+
}�teret�e�lte�ti,�, n .; nait��t��heirttai�tta]-state:day
• •t d tt-tk e Pia SpFin�m
aHel-tl,-
L J9.3 Require property owners to prepare revegetation plans as part of
project submittal to renaturalize any disturbed or scarred native
plant and habitat areas not proposed for development.
UJ9.4 Create an inventory of unique geological features that should be
protected.
L X5 Develop a list of prohibited and preferred plant species in hillside
areas.
LU9-6 Develop alternative engineering standards in the hillside areas
relating to streets, lots, drainage, and utilities that allow for
minimized grading.
NUk need to dtscus�
Foat --
'Shull'; �u•tp dii.down to read work with non name cnecific at,,encics and
01�izauoas on the gresen•alion .otcl
3d PSLDC totter of 7-I 1-07: Remove specilic ndrn(s and tvtie¢eneral reference to
public and pnyatc conservation prnuns�5tntf:. Text revised as puled.
Page 2.48 Track Changes Version]Palm Springs General Plan
LAND USE ELEMENT
Actions
LU 12.1 Create design guidelines for development adjacent to the
I-10 Corridor.
LL'12.2 Evaluate the potential of incorporating new provisions in
the City's Zoning Code for freeway-adjacent uses-
POLICY
The General Plan Land Use map identifies two areas of the City that
warrant special policy direction—Palm Hills and the Chino Cone.These
areas warrant custom policy guidance because the City has determined
that the preservation of their unique hillside character is of utmost
importance and should be carefully guided as development pressures in
the hillsides of Palm Springs continue to increase. Following is a
discussion of the issues surrounding each of the sites, and the policy
direction that accompanies it. The actual locations of these areas can be
found on the Land Use Plan, Figure 2-4.
CHINO (ONE SNOW CREEK" �cP �
Chino Cunt is recognized as an extraordinary natural resource
and an ar a of great development interest. In NO. and 20U6, the
City of Palm Sn�s lomied a task fierce to establish a vision and
direction for the area. which led to the adoption of-_thc
"Environmentally Sensitive Developmenl Area -- Specific Plan
MSA-SP)Ordinance". As a new development code in the Zoning
Ordinance the ESA-SP zone )romotes sensifivedc lopmeni.
m1k preserving the natural envitpnmcnt in the Chino Cone area.
The General Plan rcllects the task fi�rce•s vision with goals and
ohcjes that uttder(,Yird the ESA-SP zone.
The,General Plan goals and olicie, arc intended to provide for
the devclgpmunt ofenvironme�ttally sensitive aretts oFthe city in
a manner that will preserve the open. rust character of these
area, while•allowing clevelo iment of ranchettes and clustered
single- and multi pIc taunil or resort projects. The Goals and
policies of the Special Policy Arcas arq to facilitate the
Preservation -of open space through- the creation and
impleinenlatipn of development review_ccnsicletzlions that will
cnsure the evaluation of the suitability of the land for
'''IvLIh
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Changes Version Page 2.57
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
LU13.2 Protect and conserve sensitive habitat areas through
development restrictions and clustering of land uses.
U13.3 Continue to seek opportunities to acquire or destLnntc
open space for preservation. This could incl and de lcatton,
AV
D57D in-lieu fees, grants, density transfer." other sources.
LU 13A Allow for rural street profiles with French drain or similar
LvUe of a_stormwater control features and code-compliant
pedestrian accommodation to traditional street standards and
design of curbs and gutters to establish a natural streetscape that
visually blends into the surrounding terrain.
Lu13.5 Encourage low building profiles, natural colors, and
minimal grading to blend into the natural topography of the area.
LJ 13.6 Require any proposed development in this area to preserve
Ship Rock and integrate this natural landmark into the project's
design_
LU13.7 Apply natural berming teclmiques to screen views of
development within the Chino Cone from Highway 111_
13.8 Allow cultural, educational and tourism-based uses that will
generate revenue and provide amenities in the Chino Cone
Special Policy Area.
Actions
LLJ13.1 Require preparation of a Specific Plan and associated
environmental analyses prior to the approval of any development
within the Chino Cone that differ from the residential uses
permitted by right(1 dwelling unit per 40 acres)..
LU13.2 Apply the use of density transfers between properties
located within the Chino Cone and tero �else�vllzl,c in the
City-" to encourage the preservation of views and natural
resources.
LU 13.3 Initiate discussions with the County to annex land north of
Planning Area 8 in an effort to preserve the view corridors desired
along Highway 111.
`� NIllls
Mills
{- C NDIIl ,: Beal.13cs1 &Kricgcr 6-27-07 letter
Page 2.64 Track Changes Version]Palm Springs General Plan
LAND USE ELEMENT
plan for the area,or redesigned as part of a comprehensive plan for Palm
Hills.
In any case, a Specific Plan shall be prepared to develop a detailed
density allocation formula that assigns units to individual properties
within Palm Hills to be in compliance with the General Plan. The
Specific Plan shall also ensure that the proposed units are fairly allocated
to all properties that contain development potential 1zl pal e5 Ott t _
lmrcrpc,;::-'���a--,Yevek�pnien, ;,,,'r-,�a'-a�caprt�rrt�a-f4ts}mrupot��aFz-51�tr�of �I='�
t ak de l merit assured ,a,R�� .�4.; Q ' het t}m paten: p _. Sp,.•
1� 41 Tlme City shall not be precluded from coast Bring the drainage,
wildlife habitat, slope characteristics, and other goals and policies of the
General Plan while reviewing plans for proposed development within
Palm Hills.
The City of Palm Springs also recognizes the efforts of the Bureau of
Land Management(BLM),the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy,
and other groups to preserve the Santa Rosa Mountains in their natural
state. It is envisioned that limited,high-quality development can occur in
the Palm Hills area and be consistent with the desire to conserve natural
resources. The City will cooperate with these groups to facilitate
conservation to the extent that conservation efforts are consistent with the
goals and policies of this General Plan.
Create a first class resort and residential development in Palm Hills
that preserves valued open space, hillsides, view corridors, and
biological resources.
Policies
LU 14.1 Establish an innovative planning process to analyze and
guide all aspects of future development in the Palm Hills area
including biological resources, aesthetics, and infrastructure-
LU 14.2 Preserve the frontal slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains
that are visible from the desert floor as open space.
1,U14.3 Public lands that are not used as part of a development
project may not be credited for density transfer purposes to an
off-site development.
43 Mills
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Changes Version Page 2.69
1: LAND USE ELEMENT
As the backbone of the General Plan, this element sets forth the
distribution, location, and intensity of land uses throughout the City. It
represents the land use"road map"for Palm Springs—guiding it into the
future with goals, policies, and actions.
2. 1 LAND USE PLAN
One of the most visible components of the General Plan is the Land Use
Plan, which depicts where and how development should occur and
provides descriptions of each of the City's land use designations through
text and a land use diagram. State law requires that general plans identify
land use designati the development intensities that arc associated d vl
with them for the 7,290Lerify page 1-4 regumai contest. d�'it
k
a rca es ac s u to 87 GO6 acres ofland that are ocate witVl� AS
and Sp ere o n uence. In addition, state law also requires that the
locations and distribution of the land uses be identified through text and �-
mapping. The locations of each land use can be found on the Land Use
Plan (Figure 2-4). The text in this element provides the land use goals,
policies, and actions that are necessary to achieve the vision.
In general, the majority of the City's existing land uses were retained in
place in the new plan, and focused changes occurred in areas that were
either underutilized or areas that required specialized land use guidance
or refinement. Focused land use changes also occurred in areas where
change is either imminent and needs guidance or where change is desired
and needs stimulation and guidance.The revitalization of Downtown and
hillsides were also issues of high interest and, as a result, customized
policy guidance was developed for these issues.
Palm Springs General Plan I Track changes Version Page 2-1
- CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
LU14.4 Explore opportunities for the exchange of public and
private lands to create proper development areas and viable habitat
conservation areas.
LU,14-5 tilaxmium density is 1 unit per acre(residential or hotel
C -'kl.l G Ev devclopnicnt on ~lopes above 3 0';v is )rohibited. A•I•l w-a4exs%t-y
c-�(--up-{Frl-u na- �,-i n-area��; a�,el�ea�ei�t)-•ate
CFI-p
LU14.6 Allow credits for density transfer- where sensitive
biological habitats, including hillsides, washes, canyons, etc. are
protected and dedicated as permanent open space.
Actions
UU14.1 Require the preparation of a Specific Plan for any
development proposed in Palm Hills.
LU142 E4rrtce^�F s— --areas with .•.,« .al slepes ,f-14
�l�-rt�� � pertertfor-le:Ts�Rt1;�r��ral-ItleHs:,, :..�ai�trt�=€rc-xa��
tc hits per ae�-
LU14.3 Establish a program for the permanent preservation of
open space to mitigate wildlife habitat loss and to provide
recreational amenities. Programs should complement thepdramS
applicable `.. hec1-by she B"-"""T')TLrirrid-'�la,zsi
�'aA{., 'n-zcB-�-Ei"vi0lkrra'"-'n,'-."r-�c-ciFrScl=lfaHG-y'-1Zl-aH bt BiOeFn Sheep
laxa��sierrN' aa�-rxheTF.:_^�:_conservationprogramsto
the extent that they do not conflict with the General Plan and the
Ivi S1 I CP.''
LU14.4 Explore strategies to purchase the property for
preservation, including but not limited to issuance of bonds,
matching funds from conservation agencies, and partial
acquisition of the site.
41, hTills
i�Mills
Page 2-70 Track Changes Version]Palm Springs General Plan
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
LU 13.2 Protect and conserve sensitive habitat areas through
development restrictions and clustering of land uses.
L1113.3 Continue to seek opportunities to acquire or dcsiRnnate
open space for preservation. This could include land dedication,
in-lieu tees, grants, density transferal or other sources-
LU 13.4 Allow for rural . rofilcs with French drat nrstmilar
tkhc of stormwater control features and code-comp r
pe estnan accommodation to traditional street standards and
design of curbs and gutters to establish a natural streetscape that
visually blends into the surrounding terrain-
LL 13.5 Encourage low building profiles, natural colors, and
minimal grading to blend into the natural topography of the area.
I_U 13.6 Require any proposed development in this area to preserve
Ship Rock and integrate this natural landmark into the project's
design-
LU13-7 Apply natural bcrming techniques to screen views of
development within the Chino Cone from Highway I 1I-
13.8 Allow cultural, educational and tourism-based uses that will
generate revenue and provide amenities in the Chino Cone
Special Policy Area-
ActionsLU13-1 Require preparation of a Specific Plan and associated
environmental analyses prior to the approval of any development
within the Chino Cone that differ from the residential uses
permitted by right (1 dwelling unit per 40 acres).-
LU 13.2 Apply the use of density transfers between properties
located within the Chino Cone acid to properties else}here in the
City" to encourage the preservation of views and natural
resources.
LU 13.3 Initiate discussions with the County to annex land north of
Planning Area 8 in an effort to preserve the view corridors desired
along Highway I11.
I " Cvtills
`mills
ay C Mtll� Ficst.IIcst Sc Kric�cr(i-27-C17 letter
Page 2-64 Track Changes Version[Palm Springs General Plan
F L E ' EN T
1-10 and Gene Autry Trail interchange
1-10 and Highway 111 interchange
t e r '1' ste ty �jJ�-T�]
amon Foad
to the City
• Intersection of East Palm Canyon Drive and Gene Autry
TEas�14W-GairynF�!)Fk,e at Eicalf� trb e(1'H IS V EE175 ]p �
TO REM A[N. (UNSTRIKE FUS ONLI
esquite Avenue at eastern tty oun ary,
• Gene Autry at Vista Chino
• Selected roadways defining the entry to Downtown-6
CD2.2 Ensure that all gateways incorporate consistent community design
themes-
CD2.3 £laadar —i� nent �xatutk
e ients and enhance the
gateways to the downtown area with the incorporation of
signage, landscaping, building setbacks, and--architectural
detailing, and other elements that reflect the ti ds
ehafaGterMGs—hieh quality architecture and design of Palm
S prinl
QD2-4 Strengthen the identity of neighborhoods/districts through the
addition of community gateway features or monuments.
CD2.5 Preserve and enhance the scenic desert character along the 1-10
Corridor,
Actions
CD2.1 Create and adopt a Citywide gateway program to identify and
implement gateway improvements-
CD2.2 Expand the current City signage program identifying distinct
districts/neighborhoods.
CD2.3 Encourage neighborhood community organizations or
homeowners associations to fund gateway features for their
neighborhoods.
°staff
C. Mills
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Chanoos Verso Page 9.13
RECKEPJMNI� OPEN SPACE &
CONISERIYATMP
The City's two neighborhood parks are the 21-acre Ruth Hardy Park and
the 8-acre Victoria Park Both parks serve central and northern Palm
Springs.Major events at Ruth Hardy Park include the annual .Easter Egg
Hunt, Firemen's annual fish fry, and town fair during Black History
Month.The City is planning a third neighborhood park,Whitewater Park,
at the northern end of Sunrise Avenue-
Palms Springs has three community parks. Desert Highland Park is an
18-acre park that serves north Palm Springs. Presently, 12 acres of
parldand are developed; 6 acres are undeveloped. Desert IIighland Park
contains ballfields, basketball courts, multiuse fields, playgrounds, and
landscaped picnic areas. Desert IIighland Park also contains the James 0-
Jessie Desert Highlands Unity Center, a multipurpose center used for
programmed recreational activities for children and adults.
Sunrise Park, a 38-acre park, is home to the City Library, Swim Center,
Skate Park,Palm Springs Stadium, City Park and Recreation Department
offices and Olympic-sized pool. The Park is also home to the City's
Leisure Center and Pavilion, which provides a range of programmed
activities for residents. The City partners with local nonprofit
organizations to provide a wide range of recreational programs and,under
low-cost lease agreements, leases land at the park to the Boys & Girls
Club.
DeMuth Park, a 61-acre park, is located adjacent to the Tahquitz Creek
Golf Course, Tahquitz Creek, and Knott's Soak City Water Amusement
Park and the wastewater treatment facility. DeMuth Park contains all of
the City's soccer fields and a majority of its multipurpose fields and is
designed to serve the needs of active organized sports leagues. DeMuth
Park has other recreational amenities, including tennis courts,volleyball
courts, tot lots, playgrounds, and landscaped picnic areas.
Golf Courses
Golf in Palm Springs is a popular activity for visitors, and residents- The
City boasts 118 golf courses,includin champions ' and tournament level
courses„ an a 3 new golf courses kas-b:..�-� ere+ ota
,Rz azr-is under construction. ;n-�_atn ,nna e
North Indian Canyon Drive and San Rafael ("Avalon"),a�--.,�•�" --the
WritewateT-� scandene 4-Gene �Phin
"The City owns the 36- ole Tahquitz Creek Golf Resort,a 160 acre public
Staff
Palm Springs General Plan Track Chana s Version Page 5.7
7CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
GENERAL PLAN
C_D28.9 Periodially Require that the Citywide Historic Resources
Survey be updated, c er live e^-:° h2 staFA, ds
gdeline: i�he6-1}y the State f_'fn
12-res&rA t rra l
Actions
CD28-1 Update the historic preservation ordinance to provide a
clear review process for the development or alteration of survey
of properties. (discuss how to make this usable/flexible while not
messiljg un the historic inter rity of the site-Mills) ADD THIS TO
THE LTST FOR THURSDAY
CD28.2 Periodically mMaintain and update the Historic Site
Survey-
CD28.3 Coordinate preservation efforts with local historic and
architectural preservation groups.
CD28.4 Provide property owners, upon their request, with
information on how to research, rehabilitate, and preserve their
architecturally, historically, and culturally significant property.
CD28-5 Provide information to the public on historically
significant sites in Palm Springs.
CD28-6 Encourage residents to identify historic sites and districts
for possible Class I designation.
CD28-7 Investigate certification of£eF1}- the local historic
program as a Certified Local Government Program (California's
federally-funded historic preservation program) tc� Hez3bl
e-? nc�nt ll, — 9.Ile P- erzies-in-a44 neIy ^ n!
aver arrcl totes:�—l&ea � tro1-axi the rc�rab n afire
pre_
10
In the face of increasing energy costs, dwindling natural resources, and
irreversible impact on the natural environment, Palm Springs has the
opportunity to take a forward-looking approach in its design and planning
practices. Palm Springs' location and desert climate make it an ideal
setting for the implementation ofl;re en building and plarming practices-
These practices not only conserve energy and reduce the impact of
141 mills
Page 9.68 Tnr,K Cn?nggs Ve 5ron1 Palm Springs General Plan
C O H 1,E N !T Cy fA E W I GJ [�,�
ELEHE 'if f
development on the natural environment,but can also improve the quality
of life of the City's residents through the creation of more attractive,
livable, and sustainable spaces. Efforts should be made to encourage
green building, construction and planning practices whenever possible.
a rn S-. in<,s flat=-G- • intends to be an environmental advocate and a G�� �
eader in environmenta compliance and protection. We will strive to be a
model for environmental excellence and a prevailing free in
environmental protection,
To accomplish this_ the City shall endeavor to establish policies that will
incorporate environmental responsibility into its daily tmanagcmcnt of
urban residential. cotnmercial. and industrial growth. education_ cneTgv
and water use, air quality, transportation. waste reduction, recvclimr
economic development, and open space and natural habitats.
Tho City recognizes that growth and opportunity cannot he conducted at
the expense of environmental protection and enhancement_ and that
growth.and environmental stewardship are intimately related. The City
shall make every effort to cultivate superior environmental standards that
will provide for green and sustainable municipal development.
n "green sustainable city is a commttity of residents, neighbors.
workers. and visitors who strive together to balance ecological,
economic, and social needs to ensure a clean. healthy and safe
environment for all members of society for generations to come.
The City believes that the protection of the urban and natural
cnviromnents is a social responsibility and a fundatnCntal obligation of
this Citv, and that an ecologically impoverished and polluted
environntents adversely impacts human health. To ensure a viable future.
the city will take a leadership role and address the impacts placed on the
environment by urbanization and a growiu< populace,_These impacts
include air and water pollution. climate change and habitat loss.
The Cif believes that the implementation of an environmental ethic need
not interfere with economic development and that practicing such an
environmental ethic can uliimatcly, be expected to enhance economic
affairs and provide for responsible, farsighted develo ment,,
Realizing that Palm Springs' rich arclritectural fabric and community
livability should be cotmplimented with cnvironmenially-sound buildings.
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Changes version Page 9.69
LEHENll
�rrehi6eec are attcpdesi rfea ures•hi hquality architecture and desiffn
of Palm Springs. '
Policies
CD33.1 Develop a unified design theme for development along the
I-10 corridor, including architectural elements, colors, signage,
and landscaping.
( D332 Incorporate specialized design elements,including accent
landscaping, monument signage, and specialized lighting, at
key locations along the 1-10 corridor.
CD33.3 Encourage high-quality development along the freeway.
CD33.4 Buffer unattractive uses with landscaping and walls.
CD33.5 Encourage modulation and articulation of walls to avoid
large expanses of blank walls facing the freeway.
CD33.6 Stimulate continued investment of properties within this
high profile location to ensure a positive first impression of the
City.
CD33.7 Promote the use of multitenant signs adjacent to the
freeway right-of-way to minimize the visual clutter along the
corridor.
Actions
CD33.1 Develop design criteria for project evaluation along the I-
10 corridor.
CD33.2 Remove billboards adjacent to the freeway (Discuss- DiCJ�s
Mills .
CD33.3 Develop and implement-a landscape f4atrstandards for
properties lrontimz aloe-the I-10 corridor.
CD33.4 Continue to enforce the Wind Energy Conversion Systems
ordinance.
5' L. Mills
Palm Springs General Plan I Track Changes Version
Page 9.77
�O�pALM SA$
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`Y
CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT
DATE. September 17, 2007 SPECIAL WORKSHOP
SUBJECT: CASE NO. 5.1152 — THE 2007 COMPREHENSIVE UPDATE OF THE
PALM SPRINGS GENERAL PLAN
FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager
BY: Planning Services
SUMMARY
The City Council will conclude its review of the Draft General Plan Update in special
workshop sessions. The Council conducted public hearings on June 20, June 27, and
July 11, 2007 at which time it closed public comment on its review of the General Plan.
On July 18t",2007, the Council continued the hearing to a specially agendized workshop
session in order to finalize the draft General Plan and its associated Environmental
Impact Report. Staff believes that the Council's review can focus on the short list of
issues identified in this staff report and give staff direction at this workshop session to
finalize revisions. Following resolution of these items, the General Plan will be ready for
adoption.
RECOMMENDATION:
THAT THE CITY COUNCIL REVIEW THE SHORT LIST AND DIRECT STAFF AS
NECESSARY TO FINALIZE THE CONTENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN,
BACKGROUND
The 2007 Draft of the Comprehensive Update of the City of Palm Springs General Plan
and its associated Environmental Impact Report were made available for public review
on March 22, 2007.
As public comments were received at each public hearing, Staff evaluated them and
provided written responses and recommendations to each comment. Comments and
staff recommendations were incorporated in four staff reports to the Planning
Commission. Those comments, the Planning Commission's recommendations and
comments received subsequent to the conclusion of the Planning Commission's review
were incorporated into a "tracked changes edition" of the General Plan dated June 20,
2007. Subsequently, the Council received three staff reports with additional staff
ITEM NO.
City Council Staff Report
September 17, 2007 -- Page 2
Case No. 5.1152 —The 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm Springs General Plan
responses and recommendations to public comments heard by the Council.
Through early September 2007, staff met with individual Council members to provide
additional opportunity for their input, questions and review. All Council comments were
incorporated into the draft General Plan. Those comments requiring further discussion
are listed below.
A "Final Tracked Changes Edition" dated September 17, 2007 has now been created to
capture all of the following:
• The earlier changes recommended by staff
• The Planning Commissions' recommendations
• Comments and questions from Council members
• Staff's responses to a minimal number of remaining public comments that were
not provided with a staff response at the July 18, 2007 hearing.
This "Final Tracked Changes Edition" will be the document used for analysis at this City
Council General Plan workshop and will be the foundation for creation of the final
document.
STAFF ANALYSIS:
The following list reflects the remaining issues that Council will discuss in order to
create a final draft General Plan.
Chapter or Element: Source:
CHAPTER 1 ADMINISTRATION CHAPTER:
1. Page 1-19 - Planned Development Districts Foat
• Should there be a public benefit requirement in exchange for relief from
development standards provided in a PDD?
• Should there be a tighter definition of when a PDD is allowed?
• Should there be language discouraging the use of the PDD unless a real
hardship exists?
CHAPTER 2 - LAND USE ELEMENT:
2. Section 2.6 — Adding "Hotels" as a permitted use in the Central Business District
(CBD) Foat
• Should this use be added and what are the Implications of
adding this type of use?
3. Section 2.6 - Central Business District, Downtown Central Core,
Downtown Outer Care Staff
000002
City Council Staff Report
September 17, 2007— Page 3
Case No. 5,1152—The 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm Springs General Plan
• For information only: Clarification and definitions added.
4. Section 2.22 Special Policy Areas - Palm Hills Foat
Does the Council agree on the description of desired
development in this special policy area?
5. Open Space/Parks Mills/Staff
• Section 2.9 Should parks be a permitted use in the
"Institutional" land use area? (COD Site) Staff
• Policy LU2.2 — Should the text read "evaluate for
replacement" or "require replacement" of open space golf
courses when developers convert this form of open space
to developed land use? Mills/Foat
6. (Refer to Map 2-4a) Mixed/Multi-use designation:
• Should the following areas be added to the "Mixed Use"
land use designation:
a. Sunny Dunes near South Palm Canyon Drive
(bounded by Sunny Dunes, Industrial Drive, Calle
Palo Fierro)? TREND/Bldrs Sq.
b. North Side — (lots fronting the south side of San
Rafael from Indian Canyon Drive to Zanjero, lots
fronting the west side of Indian Canyon Drive from
San Rafael to Catalina, and the parcels at the
southeast corner of San Rafael and Indian Canyon
Drive)? Mills
c. An area near Mathew Drive and Cherokee Drive
(bounded by East Palm Canyon, Cherokee,
Matthew and Gene Autry, and another bounded by
East Palm Canyon Drive, the toe of slope to the
south, City limits to the east and Palm Hills Drive on
the west)? MillsANessman
7. (Refer to Map 2-4) Sphere of Influence expansion area Staff
• The Council needs to advise staff on extent of area to be
shown as "future SO[ expansion area".
8. LU7.6 and 7.9 - Small Hotel preservation policies:
• Is the emphasis on the City's support and encouragement
of the preservation of small hotels appropriate? Mills
9. (No specific section) Long Range Capital Planning;
• How can we do better capital planning including land
procurement in the General Plan or in each City
department for providing adequate municipal services such
as fire stations, libraries, parks, infrastructure, etc? Foat
10. Section 2-10 Open Space / Conservation:
Does the Council agree on the definition and use of the
land use designation Open Space Conservation? Foat
000003
City Council Staff Report
September 17, 2007-- Page 4
Case No. 5.1152—The 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm Springs General Plan
CHAPTER 4 - CIRCULATION ELEMENT:
11. Page 4-7 Street widths —
• Should private streets be narrower than currently defined
"32 feet with parking on 1 side only"? Mills
12. Page 4-18 Landscape medians —
• Does the Council agree on the creation of a list of specific
segments of divided streets that would be required to have
landscape medians? Mills
CHAPTER 5 - RECREATION, OPEN SPACE AND CONSERVATION
ELEMENT.
13. Page 5-4 - Open Space Parks Mills/Staff
• Should the total acreage of developed parkland be
increased by including City-owned, open-to-the-public golf
courses in the acreage count?
14. Page 5-16 Policy RC1.6:
• Should a policy considering the early buyout of O'Donnell
golf course lease be included? Foat/Pougnet
15, Page 5-26 Policy RC5.4 Relaxing development standards in
exchange for providing parks and trails:
• Should a policy be included that allows relief/relaxation
from development standards and requirements in
exchange for developers providing parks and trails
within/through their project? Foat
CHAPTER 7 - AIR QUALITY:
16. Page 7-12 Greenhouse Gas Emissions (GHG)
• For information only: new text proposed by staff in
response to California Attorney General suits. Staff
CHAPTER 9 - COMMUNITY DESIGN:
17. Page 9-25 Policy CD7.3 Palm Skirt Trimming
• Should the General Plan require revisions to the Palm Tree
Trimming Policy to require skirts be trimmed? Mills/Oden
18. Page 9-51 Action Item CD22.5 Neighborhood character:
• Should there be an update to the existing single-family
residential zoning ordinance to require that new
development be appropriate to and compatible with the
scale, character and the surrounding neighborhood? Mills
19. Page 9-51 Action Item CD22.6 Traffic Calming:
000064
City Council Staff Report
September 17, 2007-- Page 5
Case No. 5.1152-The 2007 Comprehensive Update of the Palm Springs General Plan
• Should this policy be included to continue to study and
fund the placement of appropriate traffic-calming features
within residential neighborhoods? Mills
20. Page 9-23 Action 5.2 Shortening timeframe for bringing non-
conforming conditions into conformance:
• Does the Council want an action item to revise the zoning
ordinance to bring non-compliant conditions into
compliance in a shorter timeframe than currently required? Oden
21. Page 9-8 Action Item CD1.1 Undergrounding existing overhead
electrical lines:
• Does the Council want to add more emphasis in this action
item to accelerate the undergrounding of existing overhead
wires either through exploring funding opportunities or
other means? Staff/Mills
Based on the Council's direction on the above items, Staff will finish editing the content
of the General Plan and prepare a `Final Draft" for adoption.
FISCAL IMPACT: No Fiscal Impact
_ Craig A. Evping, AICP, Thomas WilsoW
Director of Planning Services Assistant Cit anager
l
David H. Ready, Ci Eger
Attachments:
Re: The General Plan's Key Issues
FROM: Ilene Block--575 So. Fern Canyon, PS 92264
760-401-0557 - iblock@iblock.com
I am profoundly disappointed in the lack of specificity in the KEY ISSUES section of the General Plan.
Instead of key issues, we have a point-in-every-direction, which invariably becomes no point at all.
Here are 4 suggested areas:
1. RE. "PREMIER DESERT RESORT"
We do not have one resort with its own golf course. In fact, we act as though GOLF has nothing
to do with our reason-for-being. We've killed six plans and we're in the process of killing
another along the lower tram road.
2. NO Mention of DOWNTOWN'S Key Issues
• HEIGHT—the word appears no where and it is the biggest issue developers/deciders
face. To suggest "mixed use" as an ideal and fail to address the height issue is
complete folly. We need to identify downtown areas that can take some well designed
height.
• IRRESPONSIBLE COMMERCIAL LANDLORDS/OWNERS—We need a policy to
prevent CLO's from letting storefronts sit empty (e.g., a penalty that's bigger than the tax
write-offs they are taking) so that we don't kill local business owners and invite problems.
• UNABATED, ILLEGAL NOISE POLLUTION —And it's where we need it the least: right
downtown where entire dinner conversations come to a halt_ These are blatantly illegal
muffler modifications and everybody knows it. Why is noise pollution not an "eco-issue."
• FLOW PROBLEMS, ESP. FOR PEDESTRIANS—This document lauds our pedestrian
oriented shopping. Pedestrian only because there's no where to go. Half the blocks are
too long to walk around just to browse. Right now it's just back and forth on Palm
Canyon. EASTIWEST CORRIDORS should be a plan priority.
• BELARDO & CAHUILLA CORRIDOR needs focus— This should be "eyesore row." The
backside of PC property is barely maintained, the closed hotels that just sit in disrepair
with irrigation aft, need to have proper construction walls build around them. Developers
and empty lot owners need to know that there are standards for property even if it is
sitting unused.
3. TRANSPORTATION issues are too vague. We've got problems.
We need folks to be able to get INTO downtown and OUT of downtown by foot, bicycle or
electric car, in addition to autos. Right now we rate about a 3 out of 10. Vast areas of the city
are not accessible legally by electric car and access roads are dangerous for bikes.
• SOUTH CORRIDOR on Palm Canyon between the Tahquitz wash and the curve is not
safe for bicycles, strollers, pedestrians or bikes. The street is not accommodating and
the sidewalks are heaved, missing, blocked by palm trees. That section of Palm Canyon
is also 40 MPH so it is illegal to electric cars.
• EAST CORRIDOR on Ramon is a disaster for cars much less more eco-forms. Ramon
is the single biggest reason not to live in PS if you need to move about the valley during
the week.
4. HISTORIC ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGNATIONS
This issue needs checks and balances where now it just has one big bias. This issue is
fundamental to the downtown area and to respect for private property. Too much power is in
the hands of too few people, and they have a bias. We need balance. And we need as much
respect for the potential of new architecture as for the old.
0660GG oq�i7�Zaa7
� � PLa�l
Chia Road Proposal:
BACKGROUND: General Plan proposes to extend Chia
out to Farrell. Chia is the short street separating
Sunrise Racquet Club from Sagewood on the north
side. This will increase car and truck traffic hence
noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create
more traffic on both Chia and Cerritos as well as
facilitate increased crime due to fast cut through to
Farrell.
We strongly the support maintaining neighborhood
identity.
We support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods.
We support commercial growth but not at the expense
of quiet neighborhoods.
We support the rezoning of Chia Rd to a neighborhood
street from a connector road.
We support the policy of a connector road every half
mile. Recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose. Tachevah is significantly
underused.
We support when necessary the use of a cul de sac off
of Farrell Rd as access to the commercially zoned
undeveloped property.
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DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES
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^C9<lKOR��p MEMORANDUM
Date: September 17, 2007
To: City Council
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Cc: David Ready, Thomas Wilson, Craig Ewing, Jay Thompson, Douglas
Holland
Subject: General Plan Update— Greenhouse Gas (GHG) emissions
Recently the California Attorney General brought a lawsuit against the County of San
Bernardino alleging inadequacies in the County's recently adopted General Plan
Update. This lawsuit relates to global climate change and the County's alleged
inadequacy in mitigating greenhouse gas (GMG) emissions caused by projected growth
anticipated in its general plan.
The City Attorney has monitored the suit and staff has reviewed the issue with the City's
General Plan consultant. The goal is to assure the adequate coverage of GHG's in the
Environmental Impact Report and our updated General Plan to minimize the potential
for similar legal actions against the City.
The Planning Center has revised the Air Quality Element and through the Response to
Comments process, provided a revision to Chapter 5 Section 5.3 "Air Quality" of the EIR
addressing global climate change and GHG's.
There are currently no measurable parameters against which to assess a City's
contribution to GHG's nor a quantitative target for GHG reduction measures. Such
measures are required for adequate review under CEQA, and are anticipated to be
enacted in 2010. Until then, the City is able to demonstrate its commitment to GHG
emission reduction in our General Plan through numerous policies and action items that
address reduction of GHG's from a variety of sources.
The following statement has been incorporated into the Air Quality Element of the draft
General Plan and below this are identified some of the policies that are proposed for
adoption in this General Plan Update.
At the time of writing this General Plan update, there are no criteria or
standards for limits on greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). The California
Global Warming Solutions Act of 2006 designates the State Air Resources
Board as the state agency charged with monitoring and regulating sources
of emissions of GHG that cause global warming in order to reduce
emissions of such gases. Senate Bill 97 (Dutton, CEQA, greenhouse gas
3200 F. TAW4u1TZ CANYON WAY, PALM 6PRINGS, CA 92262 rl
TEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: ('Y 0 0
60) 322-8360 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON�PALMSPRING5-GA.GOV 0 0
emissions) would require the State Office of Planning and Research
(OPR) to prepare, develop and transmit to the Resources Agency
guidelines for the feasible mitigation of greenhouse gas emissions or the
effects of GHG emissions as required by CEQA. The Resources Agency
would be required to certify and adopt those guidelines by January 1,
2010. Until such guidelines are adopted, the City of Palm Springs will
continue to seek ways of reducing GHG emissions through pursuit and
implementation of General Plan goals, policies, and actions that minimize
the City's contribution to GHG emissions.
Policies and actions that contribute to a reduction of greenhouse gas emissions can be
found in the Air Quality Element, the Circulation Element, the Land Use Element, the
Recreation, Open Space, and Conservation Element, and the Community Design
Element of the 2007 General Plan Update. Following are examples of such policy and
action statements and the element in which the policies can be found:
Land Use Element:
LU 1.12 Ensure that land uses maintain and expand parks, recreational trails,
bikeways, and pedestrian corridors and linkages throughout the City and
between Palm Springs and adjacent municipalities.
LU3.9 Provide areas that allow a combination of alternative energy development
and industrial uses
LU4.2 Develop commercial facilities as integrated, attractive centers, with
adequate parking, provision for pedestrian access from adjacent
neighborhoods when feasible, organized traffic movement for motorists,
and safety and convenience for pedestrians-
LU4.6 Foster development of commercial centers and small scale commercial
retail in residential areas as part of new development that encourage
walkable connections between retail and residential uses .
LU8.5 Provide pedestrian links from the commercial, office, and retail uses within
mixed/multi-use areas to minimize vehicular traffic.
LU10.2 Amend the Central Business District (CBD) to include a wide range of
uses (such as grocery, hardware, and convenience/drug stores) that
provide services and amenities to the Downtown residential population.
LU13.4 Work with the Winter Park Authority to explore ways to reduce traffic on
Tram Way including possible relocation of parking lots near the Visitor
Center and the use of shuffles or other means of transport to the Lower
Tramway Station.
Circulation Element:
CR1.11 Encourage large employers (employers with 100 or more persons) to
adopt incentive programs that include ridesharing, fleet vehicles and
vanpools, preferential parking for rideshares, subsidized shuttle bus
services, telecommuting, alternative work hour programs, bicycle racks,
3200 E. TAHQOITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262 00�RI� V+�
TEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL: ICEN_LYON@PALMSPRINGS-CA-GOV
lockers and shower rooms, and information on transit services to reduce
overall traffic volumes in the City.
CR1.12 Allow for a reduction in parking space requirements for officefindustrial
uses that implement ridesharing and transit pass programs_
CR1.17 Require developers, prior to approval of development plans, to provide
right-of-way through land dedications to accommodate the City's network
of trails and non-motorized routes.
CR1.4 Encourage developers to provide facilities such as passenger loading
areas and reserved parking for carpools and vanpools, and bicycle
parking facilities for employees and customers.
CR1.8 Study the issues related to permitting golf carts and other electric vehicles
on public streets with the objective of reducing automobile use.
CR3.1 Develop a transit route (bus, jeep, jitney, shuttle) to circulate people
between the Downtown, hotels, office centers, museums, key activity
centers (Convention Center, airport, etc.), and Downtown-oriented
residential areas to reduce traffic and parking congestion in the
Downtown.
CR4.2 Continue to coordinate with SunLine Transit Agency and other regional
transit agencies to address the need for the expansion or readjustment of
bus routes, including express routes valleywide.
CR4.5 Work with the Riverside County Transportation Commission and Amtrak to
provide increased passenger rail service to, and stopping in, Palm Springs
and commuter rail, including high-speed rail concepts between Los
Angeles and Phoenix.
CR6.1 Adopt a program of non-motorized transportation facilities, including those
for bicycles and pedestrians.
CR6.11 Evaluate the need for and the feasibility of developing new bikeways and
recreational paths (or improving to Class I standards) as the City
continues to grow.
CR6.12 Recognize the importance of the City's bikeway system as a major
transportation, not solely recreational, route.
CR7.8 Improve pedestrian links from surroundings residential areas to
commercial areas and Downtown.
CR7.13 Provide incentives to developers to add pedestrian trails and
infrastructure.
CR8.9 Encourage the redesign of existing parking lots if additional spaces can be
created as well as spaces for bicycles and motorcycles.
Recreation, Open Space, and Conservation Element:
RC4.6 Seek to develop trails and related facilities for horseback riding, hiking,
bicycling, and jogging in the washes that interconnect with City parks and
recreational areas, commercial areas with residential areas, and links with
open space areas and other desert cities and trail systems.
3200 E. TAHQOITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 9226P 00001
TEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON@I-ALMSPRI NGS-GA.GOV
Air Quality Element:
AQ4.1 Encourage the use of mass transit, carpooling, and other transportation
options, including alternative-fuel vehicles and bicycles, to reduce
vehicular trips.
AQ4.2 Coordinate with regional service providers to improve regional
transportation services.
AQ4.3 Establish a shuttle service linking the airport, attractions, convention
center, major resort activities, and the Downtown area.
AQ4.4 Encourage walking or bicycling for short-distance trips through the
creation of pedestrian-friendly sidewalks and street crossings and efficient
and safe bikeways.
A04.3 Encourage the use of hybrid, low, or zero emissions vehicles in the City's
vehicular fleet. Existing vehicles should be replaced by "clean" or
alternative-fuel vehicles as they are normally retired.
AQ4.4 Develop a program to encourage the use of alternative-fuel vehicles. This
program could include incentives such as priority/free parking or tax
breaks.
AQ4.5 Create an incentives program to encourage developers to incorporate bike
paths, sidewalks, and pedestrian access points beyond those required.
Community Design Element:
CD17.8 Encourage internal access between adjacent properties to minimize curb
cuts along major thoroughfares.
CD18.5 Encourage pedestrian access to and from adjacent uses by providing
pedestrian and bike paths and breaks in perimeter walls or landscaped
buffer areas.
CD19.7 Design new development with the pedestrian in mind by including wide
sidewalks, shade street trees, sitting areas, and clearly defined pedestrian
routes.
CD22.7 Ensure that residential communities are well connected with each other
and with nearby commercial uses through the inclusion of pedestrian- and
bicycle-friendly design features, such as trails, paths, and pedestrian-
oriented streets, in the neighborhood's design.
CD29.2 Require the use of green building techniques in the design and
construction of public buildings and facilities.
CD29.4 Provide "green planning" site design incentives, such as density bonuses,
reduced parking requirements, reduced processing fees, and expedited
plan checks.
3200 E. TAHQOITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA. 82262 000012
TEL: (760) 323.8245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON@PALMSPRINGS-CA.GOV
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION RECEIVED
1200 NORTH SUNRISE WAY CI T Y OF PAUL l SFR!NG5
PALM bf'RINGS CA 92202
(0l9]323-22G0
2007 SEP 19 PM I* 14
JAhr.S THIO'M'FSON
September 17, 2007 CITY CLF. X
RE: Chia Road Proposal:
Back round The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood, The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity;
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road eve half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
PP P Y every n g
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly undemsed,
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Harrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
erely,
ohn e gar , President
Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albeit Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Property Manager (760) 346 - 9000
000
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION
1200 NOIRIH SUNW1 WAY RECE11 ED
PALM 5PRINC35 c:n 922o2 CITY OF PALM SPR1r,4GS
(619(323-226U
2007 SEP 19 PM 1: 10
September 17, 2007 1AHES T11 -IPSO
CITY CLERK
RE: Chia Road Proposal:
Background, The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell, Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood. The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. it will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity;
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road every halFmile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista China
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused;
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
erely,
lin L aid, President
Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Property Manager (760) 346 - 9000
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION RECEIVED
1200 MINGSl1A92262NRISE CITY OF PAUI SPRING-5
PALM SPRINGS CA 72262 v
(6191 323-?260
2007 SEP 19 PM 1: 10
September 17, 2007 JAI-lES TH6HPSOP�
CITY CLERK
RE- Chia Road Proposal:
Background- The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell. Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood. The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity,
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road every half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused;
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
in erely,
oh L ar , President
S �so Racquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Properly Manager (760) 396 - 9000
u� SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION RECEIVED
1200 NORTH SUNRISEWAY CITY 07 PALM SPRINGS
PALM SPRING„CA 9226:
(019)323 226D
201 SEP 19 Phi 1= 10
JAHFS TIHOHPSOI`h
September 17, 2007 CITY cIER�N
RE: Chia (toad Proposal.:
Back-round: The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward io
Farrell Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential cormunity of Sagewood. The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted,
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity;
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road every half mule recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused;
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property-
n erely,
hn o ar , President
)(760)s323-3
unri acquet Club Owner's Association
-2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Back, Property Manager (760) 346 - 9000
�� SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION RECEVVED
1200 NORTH SUNRISE WAY rITY OF PALM S?Rll^iGS
PALM SPRINGS CA 99J 1
V
(619)323=2260
2907 SEP 19 FM I= I
JAH,u�S TH0i'IPSQi`t
September 17, 2007 CITY CEERX
RE: Chia].toad Proposal:
Background: The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell, Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it fforn the residential community of Sagewood The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity,
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods,
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road every half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused;
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
Sincerely,
cG1�tn-�
ohn ooard, President
Sunrasc Racquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Property Managei (760) 346 - 9000
000,„
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION VED
1200 NORTH SUNRISE VJAf t^,!7 M 07 icll l'S SPRIh!GS
PALM SPRINGS CA 92262
(619)323-2260 2097 SFP 19 Pli I: 10
JAMES C -!
CITY HOMPSG!
September 17, 2007
RE- Chia Road Proposal-
13agkQnund: The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell. Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood The proposed extension will increase car and
truck tralTic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Clua and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity,
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of a connector road every half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused,
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
S' erely,
lun eo ar , President
Sunnis acquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Properly Manager (760) 346 - 9000
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION RECEIVED
12005PPIN0OPTH C-'/\ 9rW2 CjTy Or PALM SPNNGS
PALM SPRINGS c7A 97202
(o19)323 2260
2007 SEP 19 PM 1: 10
September 17, 2007 JAI
CITYf COE�15041
RE: Chia Road Proposal:
RaQ1ceround- The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia Road from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell, Chia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted.
Be it resolved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity,
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods,
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neigbborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road,
We support the policy of a connector road every half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly undenused,
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property,
erely,
hn eon d, President
Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Property Manager (760) 346 - 9000
000019
SUNRISE RACQUET CLUB
OWNERS ASSOCIATION
1200 NorrH SUNRISE WAY RECEIVED
PALM SPRINCS CA 922o2 CITY Or PALM SP1;3P1G5
(619)323-2260
2001SEP 19 PH 1= 10
September 17, 2007 !A"icS THOMPSON
CITY CLERK
RE: Chia Road Proposal:
Background The Palm Springs General Plan proposes to extend Chia [toad from Cerritos eastward to
Farrell. Cbia is a short, residential street North of the Sunrise Racquet Club residential community
separating it from the residential community of Sagewood. The proposed extension will increase car and
truck traffic hence noise level in our quiet residential area. It will create more traffic on both Chia and
Cerritos as well as facilitate increase crime due to the fast short cut through to Farrell.
At the Sunrise Racquet Club Owner's Association Board of Director's regular monthly meeting- on
Saturday, September 15, 2007 the resolution below was unanimously adopted,
Be it rest)lved:
We strongly support maintaining neighborhood identity;
We strongly support all efforts to protect our neighborhoods;
We support commercial growth but not at the expense of the destruction of quiet neighborhoods;
We support the zoning of Chia Road as a neighborhood street instead of a commercial connector road;
We support the policy of connector road every half mile recognizing that Tachevah and Vista Chino
already serve that purpose where as Tachevah is significantly underused,
We support, when necessary, the use of cul de sac streets off of Farrell as access to the commercially
zoned undeveloped property.
" c ely,
7 n eo d. President
u cquet Club Owner's Association
(760) 323 -2682
Sunrise Racquet Club is managed by Albert Association Management Company
Gayle Bock, Property Manager (760) 396 - 9000
?ALM SA
O _16ie^ 'Pi
^` =0 City ®f Palms. Springs
N
Office of the City Clerk
c0T°oxnTev `^ ` 3200 E.Tahcluiry(:nnynn Way • Palm Springs, California 92262
CqL I FO R Td (760) 323-820 1 o FaN (760) 322-8332 • \Wl; www.pahmprings-ca.gnv
NOTICE OF CONTINUANCE
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Adjourned Meeting of September 17, 2007, Public
Hearing Item No. I.A.
CASE NO. 5.1152 THE 2007 COMPREHENSIVE UPDATE
OF THE PALM SPRINGS GENERAL PLAN:
On motion by Councilmember Mills, seconded by Mayor Pro Tern Pougnet, and
unanimously carried this item was continued to Thursday, September 27, 2007, at 6:00
p.m., for the City Council's deliberations of the General Plan, to be held at the Council
Chamber, City Hall, 3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs. The public
testimony portion of the hearing was closed on July 11, 2007,
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
State of California )
County of Riverside ) ss.
City of Palm Springs )
I, James Thompson, City Clerk of the City of Palm Springs, California, certify this Notice of
Continuance was posted at or before 4:30 p.m„ September 18, 2007, as required by
established policies and procedures.
mes Thompson -
ity Clerk
NOTICE OF CONT-GenPlan 09-17-07-2.doc (r,J
00002 -
Post Office Box 2743 m Palm Springs, California 92263-27-13
John & Patsy Phelps
2071 Sequoia Crest
Vista, CA 0
92081Eli
a
Cn
1973 Sandlewood Dr. aN � grrn
Palm Springs, CA
760 727 1615 Vista Home rn: "o
760 917 1824 Patsy Cell c
E Mail ritaphelps(cD_sbcalobal.net
Palm Springs City Council & Mayor.
RE: Extension of Chia St. to Farrell Dr.
This letter is to protest the proposal by the city of Palm Springs' general plan to
extend Chia St. to Farrell Dr.
We do not see the purpose of the extension of Chia St. because both Tacheva
and Vista Chino extend to Farrell and are in close proximity of each other.
Our Condo is in the Sagewood Condominium Complex which is not a gated
community. It is nice and quite. We feel that opening Chia St. through Farrell Dr.
would create unnecessary traffic and noise especially to those in our complex
living on Chi St. which is in our complex.
We are also concerned about the increased risk of crime. This is a big concern
of ours because John was robbed at gunpoint last May 2006- Opening Chia St.
to Ferrell Dr. would give criminals easier access and exit to our ungated
community.
Please consider our request to keep our residential area and preserve our quiet
neighborhood.
Sincerely:
John Phelps Patsy Phelps
000022
ID
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES
MEMORANDUM
Date: September 27, 2007
To: City Council
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Cc: David Ready, Tom Wilson, Craig Ewing, Jay Thompson
Subject: General Plan Review
Further analysis of proposed expansion of San Rafael/Indian Canyon
mixed-use area
At the Special Workshop session of the City Council on September 17, 2007, the Council
requested more information about the existing built conditions adjacent to the areas being
considered for inclusion in the San Rafael/Indian Canyon mixed-use land use area. They also
asked about the possible impact to the adjacent parcels caused by the proposed land use
designation change.
SUMMARY
The primary impact of the proposed land use designation change from medium density
residential to mixed use would be to enable commercial/retail/office uses on these parcels in
addition to medium density residential uses already permitted, By applying the mixed use land
use designation to both sides of San Rafael from Indian Canyon Drive to Zanjero there is the
potential to create a cohesive, two block long neighborhood retail center along both sides of this
street. Furthermore, by extending the mixed use designation to the southeast parcel, the entire
corner is better positioned to develop as a compact neighborhood serving retailloftice center.
This type of land use planning is consistent with the policies in the Community Design Element.
These policies encourage neighborhood activity nodes and centers, as well as compact
neighborhood retail centers that support adjacent residential areas and are walkable from those
neighborhoods. Residential densities could be increased to 30du/acre with the approval of a
PD in the mixed use area.
ANALYSIS
There are three areas proposed to be added to the San Rafael/Indian Canyon mixed use area:
1: Nine (9) parcels on the south side of San Rafael from Zanjerc to Indian Canyon Drive.
Each lot is conforming to the zone and is roughly 30,000 sf in size (20,000 sf is the
minimum),
2: Three (3) parcels on the west side of Indian Canyon Drive from San Rafael to Santa
Catalina Drive, each roughly 20,000 sf in size, and
3: One (1) vacant parcel at the southeast corner of San Rafael and Indian Canyon Drive,
just over 3.6 acres in size.
3200 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA SP262
TEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL: KEN-LYON@PALM5PR1 NG5-CA.GOV
Currently the land use designation in these areas is medium density residential (6 to 15du/acre).
The three parcels on the west side of Indian Canyon Drive from San Rafael to Santa Catalina
were recently approved as a PD (including a General Plan Amendment changing the land use
designation to General Commercial). That approved project is comprised of a two-story, thirty
foot tall retail/office building with on-site parking.
The land use designation to the west of the proposed parcels (west of Zanjero) is medium
density residential and is currently built out with multi-family residential units.
There are eight (8) lots on the north side of Santa Catalina, between Zanjero and Indian Canyon
Drive with the land use designation of Estate Residential (0-2du/acre). These eight conforming
lots back up to the nine lots on San Rafael that are proposed to be changed from medium
density residential to mixed use. Five of eight lots are developed with existing single family
residences. The other three parcels are vacant. The south side of Santa Catalina is fully
developed with single family residences on estate-sized parcels. Further south and west is an
established neighborhood mostly built out, with a few scattered undeveloped lots.
There are six parcels abutting the east side of the large parcel at the southeast corner of Indian
Canyon Drive and San Rafael. These parcels are fully built out and contain five of the six Class
1 designated historic "Wexler Steel Houses". The land use designation of these abutting
parcels is Very Low Density Residential (2-4du/2cre). To the south of the southeast corner
parcel is an existing medium density two story condominium complex (south of Simms Road).
To the north of the parcels along San Rafael are a variety of existing
industrial/warehouse/commercial structures. These are in the area proposed to be mixed use.
To the northeast of the intersection of San Rafael and Indian Canyon Drive is the development
called "Palermo', a medium-density residential complex of new one and two story condominium
townhouses.
The Palm Springs Zoning Ordinance notes that building heights in the medium density
residential area (R-2) may be 24 feet (2 stories) but must be set back 150 feet from any
adjacent low density (R-1) structure. The lots along the south side of San Rafael are 200 feet
deep, thus the setback requirements for two story structures cannot be met unless a PD is
used. With the approval of the PD and GPA for the three lots along Indian Canyon Drive
between San Rafael and Santa Catalina, the Council has begun to allow two story structures to
abut the estate residential parcels along the north side of Santa Catalina.
It may be assumed that property owners whose parcels front the south side of San Rafael that
are proposed for mixed-use may desire the some density and development standards granted
to the adjacent parcels fronting Indian Canyon Drive. By changing the land use designation
from medium density residential to mixed use, parcel owners on the south side of San Rafael
would be able to apply for similar density standards with a PD but could avoid the cost and time
required to apply for a general plan amendment should they desire to also include retail/office
uses on their parcels (leaving the parcels as medium density residential would preclude
commercial/retail uses).
32O0 E. TAHQUITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
TEL: (760) a23-8245 FAX: (750) 322-8860 E-MAIL: KEN.LY0N@PALM9PHING5"CA.GOV 000024
Page 1 of 1
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contributor supplied under license and may not be approved except as licensed by Digital Map Products.
000025
http://maps.digitalmapcentral-cam/production/CityGIS/vO7 01_036/indexA html 9/18/2007
r
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
iOV pAL/�Sp4
ti r2
c
DEPARTMENT OF PLANNING SERVICES
R oqL IF00.N�P• MEMORANDUM
Date: September 27, 2007
To: City Council
From: Ken Lyon, Associate Planner
Cc: Craig Ewing, Dave Barakian, Blake Goetz, Tom Wilson, David Ready, Jay
Thompson
Subject: General Plan Update
Proposed text revision regarding street width
In the City Council Special Workshop session of September 17, 2007, Council directed Staff to
develop alternative text and standards for minimum street widths. The following text, developed
in concert with Engineering, Planning, and Fire is proposed as alternative text for the Circulation
Element, page 4-5,
Relative to item 11 of the staff report dated 9-19-07 concerning street widths, should the City
Council adopt the following text in lieu of the text in the 9-19-07 edition of the General Plan?
1. Local. Primarily provides access to individual parcels of land. Minimum right-of-way is
50 feet. In Estate, Very Low and Low Density Residential neighborhoods, street widths
may be reduced to 28 feet (curb face to curb face) provided that 1) additional off street
parking is provided as determined by the City Engineer, the Fire Chief and Director of
Planning, 2) rolled or wedge curb is provided such that vehicles may park partially out of
the traveled way, and 3) pedestrian pathways or sidewalks, separated from the curb by a
minimum five foot parkway, are provided.
2. Private Streets. Private streets provide access to individual parcels of land in planned
development communities approved with privately maintained access. Access may be
restricted. Private street widths shall be established based on a hierarchy of primary and
secondary streets and parking conditions such that uninterrupted traffic flow, pedestrian
safety, and emergency access is assured.
a. Private Primary Streets are typically the main access street in a private development
or main `ring road'. Private Primary Streets may provide access to individual parcels
in a planned development as well as receive traffic from Secondary Private Streets or
other parcels that do not front the street. Private Primary Streets shall be either a
minimum of 32 feet wide (curb face to curb face) to accommodate on-street parking
on one side and emergency access, or 36 feet wide (curb face to curb face) with on-
street parking on two sides.
3200 E. TAHQUI7Z CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, C^ 922e;Z 000026
Ur�r�O r.�
'rEL: (760) 323-8245 FAX: (760) 322-8350 E-MAIL: KEN.LYON@PALMSPRINGS-CA.GOV U 4%
.r
b. Private Secondary Streets provide access to individual parcels in a planned
development and do not receive traffic from other streets or other parcels that do not
front that street. Private Secondary Streets may range in width from 28 to 32 feet
(curb face to curb face) provided that 1) additional off-street (guest) parking is
provided in the area of the Secondary Street as determined by the Planning
Commission, 2) rolled or wedge curb is provided such that vehicles may park
partially out of the traveled way, and 3) pedestrian pathways or sidewalks, separated
from the curb by a minimum five foot parkway, are provided. if all three of these
conditions are NOT provided, private secondary streets shall be a standard minimum
32 feet with parking on one side only.
c. Designated fire lanes in private developments shall be not less than 24 feet wide (curb
face to curb face) with no parking on either side.
3200 E. TAHQOITZ CANYON WAY, PALM SPRINGS, CA 92262
YEL: (760) 323-S245 FAX: (760) 322-8360 E-MAIL; KEN-I,YON@PALMSPRINGS-CA.GOV 000027
OF p A LM S'O4
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
MEMORANDUM
ebgi[u nP
•cgUF0 V- CITY CLERKS DEPARTMENT
TO: David H. Ready, City Manager
FROM: James Thompson, City Cie
DATE: May 22, 2007
SUBJECT: Palm Tree Trimming Policy
Based on recent discussion of the City Council, you requested information or any
legislative history for a policy of trimming palm trees.
LEGISLATIVE SEARCH
1962-09-24 Council Minutes Palm Trees be trimmed only sufficiently enough not
to conflict with lighting fixtures and to alleviate any
hazard, thereby leaving the fronds with a "skirt."
Attachment 1
1982-07-28 Council Minutes Adoption of a Palm Tree Trimming Policy.
_[Attachment 2
1996-11-06 Council Minutes Direct Planning Commission to review and make
recommendations to City Council i.e. Palm Tree
Trimming. Attachment 3
1996-12-05 MainStreet MainStreet unanimous support for keeping the
existing Palm Tree Policy for Downtown.
Attachment 4
1997-02-26 Planning Recommending to the City Council revisions to the
Commission current palm tree trimming policy. Attachment 5
1997-02-26 Tribe Tribal Planning Commission request that
predominant palms be maintained in as natural
state as possible. Attachment 6
2000-02-23 Planning Re-recommend that the City Council revise palm
Commission tree trimming policy as reviewed and
recommended in 1997. Attachment 7
2000-03-08 ZStud
cil Minutes City Council discussion on Palm Tree Trimming
Session Polic _ Attachment 8
It appears that the Policy adopted in 1982 as contained in attachment 2 is the current
City Council Policy with respect to palm tree trimming.
000029
455
Minutes
9-24-62 - Page 7 - -
vote; no dissenting vote; Kirk and Sogcrt absent. .�7
c) Upon motion by Paisley, seconded by Carlin, Minute Order AWARD CONTRACT
No. 941, awarding contract for purchase'of Golf Course FOR GOLF
Dry'Fertilizer to California Chemical Company, in amount COARSE
of $981.40, was adopted by record vote; no dissenting DRY
vote; Kirk and Bogert absent, FERTILIZER
I
Bete City.Manager stated that Col£ Course Greens Superin-
tendent had'vecommended award to Faster-Gardner, who was'
not the low bidder, and for the reason that this company
had offered various services, including sail testing and
technical idv.'icewhen problems arose, lalthough the Director—
of Finanbe advised all fertilizer contained same chemical
content, and 'if additional servicea were required', they '
should be stipulated in the advertisement, and, ,therefore,
recommended award•to• the low responsible biddderl ' '
d7 cI
d) Upon-motion by Strebe, seconded by Beebe; Minute ,Order No AWARD 0014TRACT
942, awarding contract for purchase of 5 electric-golf carts" FOR 5 ELECTRIC
to Electric Marketear in the amount of $3,303.00 was ' GOLF CARTS
adopted by record vote.; no dissenting vote; Kirk and Bogert
absent, "
12. ABC Application by Victor II. & Eva H. Wallace £or Off-Sale Beer SAHARA PARK
& Wine at Sahara Park Stare, 1955 Camino Real. No protests. STORE BEER
LICENSE
13- Information: -- - " "
➢ue ,to League, of Cali£ornia .Cities Conference October 21-24, COUNCIL MTG.
1962, suggeat that last meeting in October be held October DATE
29, 1962, instead.,gf October. 22, 1962 CHANGED
14. Reconstruction of building at Airport Recently Destroyed by Fire:
Airport Director reported that building must be completely
demolished �aad that the Airport Commission has recommended BUIL➢ING AT
reconstruction at a'n-estimated cost of $7500.00, and is requesting AIRPORT
authorization to advertise for bids. - I DESTROYED BY
Upon motion by Strebe, seconded by Carlin, Minute Order No. 943, FIRE
directing that bids for construction of building be advertised sl
for, was adopted by voice vote; no dissenting vote; Kirk and _
Bogert absent,
DISCUSSION PERIOD: _
1: Mr. McKinney requested, and upon motion by McKinney, seconded by TRIMMING OF
Strebe, Minute Order No. 944, directing that palm trees be trimmed PAIM TREES
only sufficiently enough not to conflict with lighting fixtures
and to alleviate any hazard, thereby leaving the fronds with a
"skirt" effect, was adopted by voice vote; no dissenting vote;
Kirk and Bogert absent. "-
2: Mrs', Carlin requested that the City Council petition the Public[
Utilities Commission for pan investigation and heaving regarding LOCAL
electric power service rates, ELECTRIC
POWER
• - Mr. Beebe advised that a local group is currently undertaking SERVICE
--- study and will have a report of their findings, and requested RATES
that this matter be deferred., pending completion of said repert�.
Upon motion by Carlin, seconded by Strebe, Res. Nd. 7097, re-
questing the Public Utilities Commission to investigate electric
power service rates in �kalm Springs; and, further stating that,
- at such time as -the above-mentioned local group should ipresent
a report of their findings, the Council would accept the report 000029
and forward same to the 'Public Utilities Commission for consideration,
was adopted by record vote; no dissecting vote; Kirk and Bogert absent. to
090
Council Minutes
7-28-82 Page 71
F
. PALO TREE TRIPiNING POLICY
Recommendation: That the Council establish criteria for
palm tree trimming within the City and incorporate same (114)
as a policy in the Administrative Procedures & Policies
Manual; matter was reviewed at the last study session. t
Minute Order 3116, establishing the policy, was presented;
after which, it was moved, by Ortner, seconded by Poster,
and unanimously carried. Coyle absent, that Minute Order
3116 be adopted.
REPORTS & REQUESTS:
35. Departmental Reports - Received & Ordered Filed
a) Treasurer's Monthly - May, 1982
36. CITY COUNCIL reports or requests - None
37. PUBLIC reports or requests
a) Allen Perrier, 225 S. Civic, stated Chat there are
some appeals before the Tribal Council which involve
significant fees; that indication is that those will
be successful and the City Council 's decision reversed;
that the drainage fee for JimsAir will be $93,OOO,
and in View of the circumstances, it is unjustified
for it to have to put up that money in order to move
forward with its project; that request is made for '
the Council to set the appeal for hearing, if for
no other reason than to table it and place it in the
same status as other projects on appeal; and that
JimsAir is willing to past bond to assure payment
of the fee.
City Manager stated that one issue relates to whether
drainage fee is appropriate; and the second relates
to the status of the appeal ; that he has questions
regarding validity of the appeal ; that the authority
to attach the fee is ordinance of the Council and
is not a discretionary matter; that the ordinance
itself should be dealt with in that regard; that both
the Tribal Council and the City have received the
revised master plan; that there has been some difficulty
in arranging meeting with the local engineers to see
if, in their judgement, there are any technical problems
and, if so, it will be necessary to go back to the
flood control district and resolve those - if not,
then the next step would he isolating problem areas
in order to know where funds should go to achieve
the greatest beneFit; that the Tribal Council understood
that the revised plan had just been received, and
that commitment has been made to follow through in
a timely manner; and that the Council will be involved
In looking at that and making the ultimate decision
on the drainage plan.
No action taken.
a000�n
CZ
G OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA oms oN aac tPA09
PROCEDURES AND POLICIESREFCNENGE EFFECTIVE�Are suoaecr PROPERTY MANAGEMENT:
�^ TRIMMING OF PALM TREES WITHIN THE
-28-82 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 1 or 3
0.0 DEPARTMENTS AFFECTED
0.1 Community Development
0.2 Community Services
0.3 Planning Commission
0.4 Architectural Advisory Committee
0.5 General Public
1.0 PURPOSE
1.1 It is the purpose of this policy to establish the criteria for palm
tree trimming within the City of Palm Springs. This policy shall
apply to palm trees located within the following areas:
a. Public right-of-way.
b. Parks.
C. Landscape easements.
1.2 This policy will assign the authority to ,review palm trees and/or
determine the need for trimming trees.
2.0 BACKGROUND
2. 1 The City of Palm Springs desires its palm trees to have a consistent
aesthetically-appealina appearance. This general appearance of palm
trees is enhanced by the natural "skirt" which is formed by the dried
fronds of the palm tree.
In the past there has been a lack of clarity about the City of Palm
Springs' policies and procedures pertaining to the trimming of palm
tree fronds ("skirts").
This policy is designed to clarify the procedures for palm tree trim-
ming and establish a consistent policy as to exceptions and how they
Will be dealt with.
3.0 POLICY
3. 1 All palm trees located within the areas defined in Section 1. 1 of this
policy shall be trimmed by the Parks Division as often as deemed nec-
essary until such time as the lower edge of the fronds "skirts" are
twelve (12) feet from the ground. ,
000031
r '�e'reo 1r noPROVCDBve CITY COUNCIL MD 3116, 7-28--82
��.1 1. 6 L �_
C OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA orvleloN secTlaN au ura
PROCEDURES AND POLICIES ] 5 1
REFERENCE -� EFI'YjpTIVE OwTE BO BJCCT rAOC
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT:
7-28-82 TRIMMING OF PALM TREES WITHIN THE
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 2 or 3
3.2 No exception shall be made to this policy without approval of the
Planning Commission upon recommendation of the Architectural Ad-
visory Committee, according to procedures hereinafter provided.
3.3 Seed pod trimming is not a part of this procedure and policy state-
ment and will be trimmed at the discretion of city staff,
A.0 DEFINITIONS
4. 1 Hazard - An identifiable potential for injury to any person or
damage to public, real , or personal property.
5.0 PROCEDURE
5. 1 The Architectural Advisory Committee will review at its regularly
scheduled meetings, all requests for palm tree trimming which are
exceptions to the twelve (12) foot rule, as stated in Section 3.1.
5.2 The Architectural Advisory Committee shall base its recommendations
supporting palm tree trimming in excess of the twelve (12) foot
rule, utilizing (but not limited to) the following guidelines:
a. Street Lighting - Palm trees adversely affecting the
lighting of any public street and/or intersection.
b. Power Lines - Palm trees determined to be potentially
hazardous.
C. Traffic Signals & Warning Signs - Palm trees deter-
mined to be obstructing vision.
d. Bus Stops - Palm trees which may obstruct the passage
of buses on public streets.
e. Proximity to Structures - Palm trees close to or adja-
cent to buildings or other structures which may con-
stitute a hazard.
f. Aesthetic Consideration - Palm trees in groups of
various sizes and shapes where aesthetic disparity
exists, which includes but is not limited to consid-
eration of skirt height and shape and consistency of
bark trimming, shall be reviewed at the discretion of
the Architectural Advisory Committee.
g. Damaged Trees - Trees that are damaged, by way of
storm or other causes , shall be trimmed by city staff
without Architectural Advisory Committee review, but
only to the point necessary to remove damaged bark
or fronds.
1 TIATED By wRFROVEO BY;
CITY COUNCIL MO 3116, 7-28-82
CI OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA rON secrlvN auMjcct
PROCEDURES AND POLICIES 5 7
REFERENCE j EFPRCTIVE DATE SUBJECT PROPERTY MANAGEMENTS PACE
- 7-28-82 TRIMMING Of PALM TREES WITHIN THE
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS 3 OF 3
5.3 Hazards created by palm trees shall be determined and confirmed
by the Architectural Advisory Committee. The Architectural
Advisory Committee may review and recommend alternative methods
for dealing with hazardous trees , e.g. removal and relocation,
5.4 Any interested person may request the Architectural Advisory
Committee to review a case for trimming palm trees in excess
of twelve (12) feet.
6.0 EXCEPTIONS
6. 1 None.
-- OOD033
1 TIATED6Y. gOVEC BV.
�� ��L ��CITY COUNCIL, MO 3716, 7-28-82
Council Minutes
11.6.96.Page 4
1. 'MEMORANDA OF UNDERSTANDING -EMPLOYER UNITS(Continued)
Counellmember Spurgln stated that she could never understand why the Council could not
sit across the table and be able to talk like people,and not employee to Council;that the
PSPOA made the suggestion to do so,and there was success in It;[hat the five years have
been difficult times for boil' the Council and the employees, and there may Still be
difficult time ahead. She added that in no way should the term "median'or'avcmgc"
be micawed to suggest that file Council considers the employees In those terms. .
Mayor staled that the amount of work has not been reduced over the past five years,and
employees have sane without raises, and made ascrificra so[he City could rebound and
grow strong again, and did so with very little complaining;Ilia[the Council had[he jab
to balance between what was fair and what waa affordable;that the proposed adjustments
deal with both issues;and Iliac the parties remained polite, and professional.
Minute Order 5832 as revised by the City Manager, was presented; after which, it was
moved by.Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that MO5832 he
adopted.
rRcomnmendatlon:
LM TREE TRIMMING POLICY
That the Council direct the Planning Commission to review and make
ommendations to the Council concerning exiating palm tree trimming policy.
y Managerreporlcd'listduring recent winds,a numberofpaim fronds fell,and were (136-
aned up at a cost of$1,300. 032)
Director of Public Works recommended Thal [be Planning Commission be instructed to
re-examime the City's policy concerning Palm tree trimming.
Councilmember Spurgin stated that she likes the skirts on The trees, but now favors
trimming Them to look cleaner, and reduce the liability from falling fronds.
Cour'eilmember Oden agreed, in particular concerning downtown, and m provide
information as to the cost for doing so by area,
nireelor of Public Works stated that.lhe most meant cast estimate or$130 per Imo,did
not include skinning the free, only removal and disposal of the trimmings.
Councilmember Hodges stated that The price is high because of the required Insurance:
Ihze she wanted to get rid of the skirts downtown; and[fiat since it appeared a majority
of the Council favored ilia idea,she questioned why[he Council could not simply change
Ilse policy.
City Manager stated that the subject lends to generate a substantial amount of scnfimenl
on both aides;and that if it Iiad been known that the Council might Iake an action other
than that recommended, there may have been people who would have wlslad To speak
an the mailer.
Mayor slated [he[ Ilia direction to file Commission could indicate that Ihrcn members
strongly favor removing skirts downtown;and that he would like input from Mahn Since4
as well in business owners downtown.
Minute Order 5833 as recommended,was presented;after which,'](was mavod by Oden,
seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, chat MOSS13 be adopted; and that the
Commission be advised char the direction comes with the strong rccommendncion to trim
skins downtown.
000034
0
WEEKLY PROGRMi._ REPORT
�y thru 1 x/6/96
f• The Downtown Development Center Is very t p pleased to announce that
- F 4 ^Janelle'a Feminine Arlro^has signed a tease at LaPlaza.Their original
1 •,•,.. Store IS located In Lido Village In NCwport Beach.There is now only one
rema cling ground floor vacancy at LaPbza.
•' ��` .°' ' The signals are ver
y positive that^Awipn[:ErilagC Company"is cembtg IO
downtown Palm Springs to operate a high quality carriage ride service.
Chrlsflne Davis Is the owner/operator and has previously operated(homed
Jerry A, ogbum ' carriage Odes In Soollsdale.AZ and San Diego under the name of'CAnderella
190 Weal Amado Road
C-Cha filer IMband aril co-owner has already approndleltlx:Chamber
Palm Springs, CA 92262 of Commerce about membership.This comp
any parry is a potential Icnant for me
` carriage storage and lark space at the Cllyowned Village Green wllldl was
Telephone: HA8.325.8070 vamled by(he previous carlage ride operator.
Facstarllc: 010-326.8271
Pascal Burke of Deep Ocean systems,Inc,Is returning to Palm Springs on
I V13/96 to confirms discussions wlih the Downtown Devebpmeni Center in
regard to their proposed Palm Springs Aquarium.Thee proposed location Is
on the MA-owned parcel north of the Lobster Company(I--ormer GTE
Building).This has promise as onother major non-rotall aliraction/anchor In
dom(ownl
•�'' Tituy Weincr of Leeds Jewelry has given file Downtown Develop r=t Ccn(cr
a great lead/-hot ap^on a buslnedWshing to locate In downtown Palmy
. d•%, SlxkW.Thu polcndal(Dian(Is the ItNph Laurel Polo Stop on d Pasep.JAO Is
fetlowing up Will Tyler Ryder on(his lead.
-�fer an In-depth discussion at Its regular meeting on 12/5/e6, the
falnSlreet Board of nirectors voted unanimous support for keeping the
e}'Isling Pahn nee Trimming Polley Intact In Downtown.Tholf Consensus
opinion was to send a strong message to City Council In support of Idle
current treatment of the Washingtonla FlI feral(Pan palms).Health and
safety related Issues were discussed at length. The uniqueness and
^Village^quality of downtown Is greatly enhanced by the current took of
these palms,and MalnSlreet board members want to be on record as
being arongdy opposed to any change In the trimming policy,
JAQ Is working with John Coale of UNOCAL in regard to the C Vs possible
f - acquLSilion of Amado Park as a permanent downtown park site.UNOCAL's
recently completed appraisal estimates the value of this parcel at saas,CCo.
,l `. Barbara Poster Henderson Is interested in panitlpaWg Ir the acquisition of ants
property as a permanent City park to be dedicated to the memory of BIB
Foster.UNOCAL is wiling to consider crealhvo alternatives such as aCCCpIIV
a trade for property of cgWvWent value,ellher from Barbara and/or the CRA.
They would also consider alease or pudlaseover--Ilene Approach.
AIAInSltoct-PalmSprlrrga'
j;••uptown Palm Springs',::. JAO is tvorkelg Will Cal David,a local musldan,ki the proposed development
Ps 6ventp`Padnershlp.;,,.,. of a high quality contort venue to be located in the Secdnnd floor of Plaza de
lJF•{;n: ' '^ VluagaPoal ' ':?;r has Flores.This Is lobe a'l louso of Blues'type of ariraegon,and has the
,.. "hAI.M,SPRINos No'fii,, supiorl O(John W25srnM
00003-5
Planning Commission Minutes of February 26, 1997
Page 9
(Draft- not approved by Commission)
MISCELLANEOUS ITEMS;
EREVIEW EXISTING PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY - and make
recommendations to the City Council on any update or modifications.
Director stated that the Tribal Planning Commission has looked at our policy and
recommend that the palm trees be maintained in as close to a natural state as
possible; they have been very careful on the Spa Hotel site to use Washingtonia
filifera palms; Resolution draft covers the overview of the findings;
Commissioner Fontana suggested that the Resolution refer to a distinction being
drawn between the Washingtonia filifera and the Washingtonia robusta.
Director stated the policy as outlined would have a distinction between the two,
with the filifera palms being trimmed For safety (or possibly other reasons) after
reaching 12 feet, and the robusta would be trimmed so the palm fronds would be
roughly 6 feet from the green palm fronds(to be included In the Resolution); City
currently removes seed pods and straggling branches "
Commissioner Raya stated that when this goes to City Council (especially since
It is televised)It would be helpful to have photographs of the filifera and robusta
palms and utilize Channel 17, which Is City operated,to educate the community
on what we are doing_
Commissioner Marantz stated that it would be helpful to have Jim Cornett, Curator
of Natural History of the Palm Springs Desert Museum, make a presentation to
the City Council.
In response to Commissioner Foster's concern about the dead palm trees an East
Palm Canyon Drive, Director stated that Southern California Edison Co, put the
City on constructive notice,which allows the City the opportunity to move/trim the
palm trees that are interfering with their lines; Edison has then had to trim the
trees; may not be able to request that Edison replace them. The undergrounding
of utilities on East Palm Canyon Drive Is under construction, and when that
project is completed, the City could replace the palm trees.
Chairman Mills stated that preservation of the skirts of the fillfera palm trees is a
major issue In the downtown area, as it would change the character substantially
if they were altered.
In response to Commissioner Marante concerns about liability, Director stated
that legally the City Is not liable; if robusta palms are trimmed reasonably well,
aaooas
5,�
Planning Commission Minutes of February 26. 1997
Page 10
(Draft- not approved by Commission)
REVIEW EXISTING PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY-Cont'd
that will reduce the failing palm fronds dramatically;the risk manager for the City
states that we are Immune from liability.
Commissioner Fontana agreed to represent the Planning Commission (with
Commissioner Raya as back-up) at the City Council's hearing.
In response to Commissioner Raya's question regarding designating the palm
tree as the official tree, Director stated this had been discussed at MainStreet.
M1SIC (RayafMaranta; 7-0): Recommending revisions to tho Palm Tree
Trimming Policy, per Staff report and Resolution.
000037
RESOLUTION NO. �1 II�C,
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE C175� OF
PALM SPRINGS APPROVING MODIFICATIONS )�L
TO THE PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY
w x w + * • JO
WHEREAS, the City Council adopted a Palm Tree Trimming Policy on
July 28, 1962 and the City Council directed the Planning Commission
to review said policy on November 6, 1996; and
WHEREAS, the existing policy affects all palm trees located within
public rights-of-way, parks and landscape easements; and
WHEREAS, it is the City's policy to maintain palm trees so that
the dried palm fronds (skirts) are full and trimmed until the
skirts are twelve feet (121) above ground; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission considered this policy at a
regularly scheduled meeting; and
WHER .n^a, the Planning Commission and City Council directed staff to
consult with MainStreet and fully review the options available
before recommending modifications to the city's Palm Tree Trimming
Policy;
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has conducted an extensive
evaluation of the City's palm trees, parkways and medians and has
consulted with Community groups, including MainStreet, Tribal
Planning Commission and Design Review; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission and Community groups consulted
have strongly supported mailitaining a strong natural appearance of
City palm trees; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has determined that Washingtonia
filifera palm trees are native to palm Springs, and the full skirts
are an important design feature, giving a massive, full appearance,
and that Washingtonia filifera palm trees rarely, if ever, drop all
or a large portion of their skirts; and
WHEREAS, the Washingtonia robusta palm trees are not native to Palm
Springs, and that the skirts are an important design feature, and
the Washingtonia robusta palm trees are known to drop all or large
portions of their skirts; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has determined that the City's use
of palm trees as the City's primary street tree has created an
urban design statement which expresses the essence of Palm Springs
to residents and visitors; and
WHEREAS, MainStreet, Design Review Group (formerly Arebitectural
Advisory Committee) the Tribal Planning Commission and the City'a
Planning Commission have recommended that the City maintain full
skirts to the extent possible; and
WHEREAS, the City Council has carefully reviewed and considered
all of the evidence presented in connection with the meeting on
this polity issue, including but not limited to, the staff report
and all written and oral testimony presented_
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has reviewed all of the
information contained in the staff report and presentation and has
held several workshops;
OOOa3 �
NOW, THEREFORE, HE IT RESOLVED that based upon, the Foregoing, the
City Council hereby approves amendments to the City Palm Tree
Trimming Policy and as outlined in the attached Exhibit "A";
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED that the City Council recommends; 1) that
the Planning Commission work with MainStreet to develop a
signing/plaque program to explain the history ❑f Washingtonia
filifera palm trees and their importance to the history and culture
of Palm Springs; 2)direets the Parks and Recreation Division to
develop a Capital Improvement Program budget for replacing dead and
damaged palm trees located on East Palm Canyon Drive; and 3)
directs staff to prepare necessary documentation to declare the
Washingtonia filifera palm tree as the "City's Official Tree- "
Attachment: Exhibit "A"
ADOPTED this day of 1997.
AYES:
NOES.-
ABSENT:
ATTEST: '.� CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA
)3Y
City Clerk City Manager
REVIEWED & AF2ROVED IfifY��
000039
EXHIBIT "A"
0,0 UEARTMENTS AFFECTED
0.1 Cemmaaity Bevelepment Planning and Duilding
0.2 Parks &Recreation or Public Works
0.3 Planning Commission
0.4 Arehileat• al-, &ive y-Gommhtee Parks and Recreation Commission
0.5 General Public
1.0 EURPM
1.1 It is the purpose of this policy to establish the criteria for palm tree
trimming within the City of Palm Springs, This policy shall apply to palm
trees located within the following areas:
a. Public right-of-way.
b: Parks.
c. Landscape easements.
FIMMEMWER MEN
1.2 This policy will assign the authority to review palm trees and/or determine
the need for trimming trees.
2.0 RACKGRGi1ND
2.1 The Washingtonia filferd palm tree (Desert ran palm) is native to the city
and grows naturally within the canyons within the city and surrounding
areas. Its palm fronds adhere to its trunk for the life of the tree,
2.2 The Washingtonia Robusta palm tree (Mexican Pan Palm)is not native to
Palm Springs. This palm tree is known to shed its dried palm fronds
(skirts) during windy periods.
2.3 The City of Palm Springs desires its palm trees to have a consistent
aesthetically-appealing appearance. This general appearance of palm trees
is enhanced by the natural "skirt" which is formed by the dried fronds of
the palm tree.
In-the-pasVOtere-has been a 4&ef- ify abe th,�^�rsf aloe Springy
poiieksand preeederes perEaixing to the er rnmireg of pn}m tree#ends
F=51d�t5�
This policy is designed to clarify the procedures for palm tree trimming
and establish a consistent policy as to exceptions and how they will be dealt
with,
3,0 POLICY
3.1 All palm trees located within the areas defined in Section 1.1 of this policy
shall 6e trimmed by the lba�`Si�Parks Division as
follows:
• Washingtonia fiifera palms(desert fan palms) as often as deemed
necessary until such time as the lower edge of the fronds "skirts"
arc twelve(12) feet from the ground,
0000413
-%�IIIFNI... .... MIN
3.2 No exception shall be made to this policy without approval of the Planning
Commission upon recommendation of the Parks and Recreation
Commission and Design review Group, according to procedures
hereinafter provided.
3.3 Seed pod trimming and removal of loose$a palm fronds is not a part
of this procedure and policy statement and will be trimmed at the discretion
of City staff,
4.0 D13xry'p)YTTONS
4.1 Hazard-An identifiable potential for injury to any person or damage to
public,real, of personal property,
5.0 PROCBD[]RE
5.1 The Planning Commission will review at its regularly scheduled meetings,
all rquests for palm tree trimming which are exceptions, as stated in
Section 3.1.
5.2 The Planning Commion shall base its recommendations supporting palm
tree trimming on the Section 3.1 rule, utilizing(but not limited to) the
following guidelines:
a, Street Ljpht"�ng-Palm trees adversely affecting the lighting of any
public street and/or intersection.
b. Power Y,ines-Palm trees determined to be potentially hazardous.
C. Traffic Sirmals 6r Mmine Sins-Palm trees determined to be
obstructing vision.
d, Bus Stcos-Palm trots which may ob stmct the passage of buses on
public streets.
e. Emxj ]ity to Stmohrres-Palm trees close to or adjacent to
buildings or other structures which may constitute a hazard.
f. Aethetic Q'onsidoration -Palm trees in groups of various sins and
shapes where aesthetic disparity exists, which includes but is not
limited to consideration of skirt height and shape and consistency of
bark trimming, shall be reviewed at the discretion of the
Architectural Advisory Committee.
g• ]Z30ISPed T= -Trees that are damaged, by way of storm or other
causes, shall be trimmed by City staff without planning Commission
review, but only to the point necessary to remove damaged bark or
fronds.
5.3 Hazards created by palm trees shall be determined and confirmed by the
Planning Commission ? The Planning
Commission may review and recommend alternative methods for dealing
with hazardous trees, e.g. Aomoval and relocation.
5.4 Any interested person may request the Planning Commission to,review a
cast for trimming palm trees in excess of twelve(12) feet.
6,0 FX�_CFpITpNy
6.1 Nana.
000041
MEMORANDUM-FA%
Q
0 �gHg1Gt��° TO: Doug Evans, Director of Planning and Building. City of Palm
Springs
onEs^^0PE0TE" 619322-8360
noslxmnun car ai 6w FROM: Thomas J. Davis,Tribal Planning Director,ACBCI
DATE: February 23, 1997
PALM 5rRln6s.
PAGES: 1
ceuteenre RE, PLANNING COMMISSION AGENDA OF FEBRUARY 26,
1997
92969
The Indian Planning Commission, at its meeting of February 17, 1997,
lcsenlom discussed the Clry's palm tree trimming policy and requested 1 convey their
(619)325.56v) position that the predominant palms (Washingtonla spedes) In the City be
maintained in as natural a stale as possible.
ren Please contact me if you have any questions or require any additional
(619)525.0593 information.
cc: Tribal Council
000042
Planntng Commission Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2000
TRIBAL COMMENTS: None
PUBLIC COMMENTS: None
# Y * 4
NUSCELLhNEOUS:
Palm Tree Trimming Policy
Director reviewed the current Palm Tree Trimming Policy and the February 27, 1997 report at the
request of City Council. The policy allows full skirts to develop on the Desert Fan Palms to within
12 feet ofthe ground at which point they are kept trimmed to that height(with an exclusion for the
trees in the FAA-controlled airport areas). Regular annual maintenance also includes removal of
seed pods and case-by-case attention to problem trees(c.g.,irregular frond growth or shedding or
other safety concerns). He also stated that after extensive research (including input from the
Curator of the Desert Museum)rodents are not known to regularly nest in the skirts. In addition,
the Multi Species Habitat Management's preliminary standpoint is that soon-to-be endangered
species of bat may rely on the skirts for shelter and encourage the City to leave the skirts intact.
He also reported that MainStreet members appreciate the urban design statement of the frill skirts.
He suggested that a modification to the current policy be considered for the Mexican Fan Pahns to
be trimmed to within six to eight feet of the green fronds.
Director reported that,in recent years,the City has spent approximately$49,000 per year for routine
maintenance. The approximate cost to the City for removing all the skirts(but not"skinning" the
trunks)on the estimated 3,100 trees would be$403,000(at the current price of$i 30 per tree). He
stated that the regular yearly maintenance costs would not be reduced significantly even if all skirts
were removed due to the constant-regrowth.
kie stated that the Parks Department voted last week to recommend maintaining the existing policy.
Commission discussion included the idea that all mid-black trees have the skins removed to t
increase the impact of the comer trees and contribute to a cleaner look for downtown. Further
discussion, though, underscored the importance of the ambiance that the skirted trees afford
downtown and that the Desert Fan Palms are a landmark as they stand now_ The Commission
favored the current policy of having seed pods removed and skirts trimmed to a safe distance from
Page 2 of 11
000043
Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
February 23, 2000
the ground. It was felt that the yearly maintenance of the trees is a part of the cost of"being Palm
Springs."
Director responded that he will take the Planning Commissioners' views to the City Council with
an additional recommendation that the Mexican Fan Palms' skirts be trimmed to within six feet of
the lowest green fronds.
M/S/C(I{latchko/Caffery)7-0. To approve continued support for February26,1997 motion:
"Recommending revisions to the Palm Tree Trimming Policy, per Staff Report and
Resolution."
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
Tentative Parcel Map 29450 — Application by Lowe's home Improvement Warehouse
Western Real Estate Division for a proposed two-lot Tentative Parcel Map for the subdivision
of approximately 38 acres to initiate the phase one development of a 176,519 square-foot
Lowe's Home Improvement Warehouse on 13.33 acres of the project site,located on the south
side of Ramon Road,between Gene Autry Trail and San Luis Rey Drive,M-1 Zone,Section
26.
Associated with this request are:
Planning Commission Determination 10.425-- Application by Lowe's Home Improvement
Warehouse Western heal Estate Division for a determination to add home improvement
centers as a permitted use within the M-1 (service/manufacturing) Zone;
and
Case 3.1795 (Architectural Approval) — Application by Lowe's Home Improvement
Warehouse Western Real Estate Division for a proposed' 176,519 square-foot home
improvement center on 13.33 acres of land located on the south side of Ramon Road,between
Gene Autry Trail and San Luis Rey Drive,M-1 Zone, Section 26.
Commissioner Fontana reported thathe would abstain from discussion of this project due to current
business interests and was excused for the remainder of the meeting. t
Principal Planner reviewed the proposals to the Planning Commission. He stated that the first thing
staff did with the project was to check the relationship of the project with the General Plan. Staff
considered the design interest for major thoroughfares(which includes keeping an open feeling).
He reported that M-1 Zoning allows for all components of the store to operate individually so that
Page 3 of I I
000044
STUDY SESSION
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
March 8,2000
3. RUTH HARDY RESTROOMS
Police Chief stated enforcement has been stepped to in increase police presence in park; that
Citizens on Patrol and Reserve Officers are patrolling the area closely; that a number of
sting operations have been implemented; that the web site advertising the restrooms as a sex
site has been visited by a police presence; that there are proposals from die Parks &
Recreation staff to try to alleviate part of the concern.
Director of Parks &Recreation reviewed a proposal for portable toilets; and added that
bollards and chains could be installed in a portion of the parking lot to prohibit cars from
parking too close to the restrooms.
Oden: Stated bollards and chains should be used; that the focus of vice should not be
targeted in one area; that the rest of the City likewise needs attention; that balance is needed
in the Community; that young people do use the parks and not always wisely-
Police Chief stated that the sex violators are not of a young age, but are older males.
ReIler-Spurgin stated the doors should be locked at sundown; and when people are caught,
the names listed in the newspaper; that the parks arc where children go to play; that it
should be safe; that with this type of activity going on, it is unacceptable for the Community
and action should be taken immediately.
Councihnember Jones reviewed handout furnished by Bud Sinclair, copy attached.
Consensus to increase police presence, install bollards and chains.
4, PROGRESS UPORT ON CITY MANAGER SEI.LCTION PROCESS
Power Point presentation of selection process, copy attached.
5. PALM TREE TRIMMING POLICY
Planning Director reviewed handouts concerning past policy of policy.
Councilmetubor Jones stated that the policy should remain as stated.
Mayor Kleindienst requested an estimate for trimming the trees on E.P.C. between Farrell
and Sunrise be submitted to the Council,
'.Cbbseffitw rof,Council'to obtain cost;es,Wryate for,TPC,betwedn.Farrell'&$uiirise;iand kap
cuiten't;pgS cyriu.p,ace:
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City of Palm Springs
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Planning & Building department
LIVIJELIVIJO o M®VIJI"JI1
Date: February 19, 1997
To: Planning Commission
From: Douglas R. Evans, Director of Planning & Building "
Subject: Palm Tree Trimming Policy - City Council Recommendation
Recommendation:
That the Planning Commission review the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy, information
contained in this report, and recommendations from Design Review and Mainstreet. A draft
resolution will be presented at the meeting.
Background:
The City Council, at its November 6, 1996 meeting, directed the Planning Commission to
review the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy and make recommendations. In making the
motion, the City Council indicated that the direction comes with a strong recommendation
to trim palm tree skirts downtown. Issues raised during the City Council discussion
included the cost of clean-up, aesthetics, City liability and costs to trim. A copy of the City
Council Minutes is attached to this report.
Existing Policy:
The existing policy was adopted in 1982. In summary, the purpose of the policy is to
establish a policy for palm trees within public rights-of-way, parks and landscape
easements. The policy states that all palm trees shall be trimmed as often as necessary
until such time that the lower edge of the fronds (skirts) are twelve feet (12') from the
ground. No exceptions are allowed without Planning Commission approval and Design
Review input, Seed pod trimming is not prohibited. Included in the policy is a provision
that allows supplemental trimming based upon safety and aesthetic considerations. A copy
of the existing Palm Tree Trimming Policy is attached.
�
Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy
February 19, 1997
Page 2
Subsequent to its adoption in 1982, the policy has been evaluated several times, but not
changed. In 1994 the City Council evaluated this issue during its consideration of a palm
tree trimming contract. In doing so, the Planning Commission, by a 5 - 2 vote,
recommended that the policy not be modified_ At this time, the City Council approved a
contract amendment to increase the seed pod removal/frond clean-up to add additional
palm trees to the City contract, but did not amend the policy.
Palm Tree Characteristics:
Washingtonia filifera palms (Desert fan palms) are the City's native palm tree. These palm
trees are native to the Coachella Valley and are widely used as ornamental trees. They
have a wide trunk, grow to approximately 20 to 40 feet, and do not drop the dried palm
fronds like other palms. These are the primary street palms in the downtown portions of
North and South Palm Canyon Drive.
Washingtonia robusta palms (Mexican fan palms) are not native to this area and are also
widely used. These palm trees have a narrow trunk, grow to approximately 80 to 100 feet,
and drop the dried palm fronds. These trees are primarily located on Tahquitz Canyon
Way, South Palm Canyon Drive and Last Palm Drive. A mixture of palm trees is located
at other City parks and parkways.
Jim Cornett, Natural Science Curator at the Palm Springs Desert Museum who has
published numerous articles on Washingtonia filifera, wrote a recent article which was
published in the Desert Sun. A copy is attached.
Health and Safety Issues:
Many individuals have associated palm tree skirts with rats. Staff has contacted several
City staff members who have experience with palm tree trimming, and rats have not been
found to be a problem. According to Mr. Cornett, he has not seen any evidence that rats
nest in palm trees. They are, however, known to climb palm trees to forage for food (palm
tree fruit). If seed pods are removed, the primary food source is eliminated.
Staff contacted the Riverside County Health Department and the Mosquito Abatement
District (responsible for rodent control) and received a handout that is distributed to the
public. This document recommends trimming palm fronds to reduce cover and food
sources.
Staff requested an update from Risk Management regarding the City risk associated with
falling palm fronds. The City does not have any claims pending, nor is it liable for any
problems caused by falling palm fronds. As long as the City maintains palm trees in
000047
Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy
February 19, 1997
Page S
accordance with an adopted policy, there is no liability. Falling palm fronds is an "act of
nature," which is usually caused by wind.
Community Input:
MainStreet reviewed the City's policy at its December 5, 1996 meeting. The meeting was
attended by Board members, Mr. Cornett and City staff. After discussing the issues, the
Board of Directors voted unanimously to support the current policy in the downtown. An
update from MainStreet is attached.
City Design Review advisors (formerly Architectural Advisory Committee) reviewed the
policy and suggested that Washingtonia filifera palm tees be maintained under the current
policy, and that the Washingtonia robusta palm trees have the brown skirts removed to
within 5 to 8 feet of the green fronds. This would eliminate the older dry fronds, and still
maintain the full look of the palm tree. This would clean up the existing Washingtonia
robusta palms which have lost portions of the skirt, reduce the amount of clean-up during
windy periods, and maintain the strong urban design along the Tahquitz Canyon Way
corridor and other areas. The Design Review members strongly objected to the trimming
of the City's native palm trees, and felt that the visual impact within the downtown would
be dramatic and negative. Removal of the massive palm trees would expose many of the
weaker design features in the downtown. Design Review members include architects and
landscape architects.
Design Options -
There are a number of design options available which could be considered in evaluating
the City's Palm Tree Trimming Ordinance. Palm tree trimming options address the palm
fronds (skirts), trunks and removal of fruit. Currently the City removes loose and damaged
fronds and the fruit on an annual basis. No changes are recommended to this policy.
The current City policy is to allow the palm tree skirts to remain full. The purpose of this
policy is to have natural appearing palm trees. From a landscape design viewpoint, this
increases the mass and strength of the palm trees as a design statement. This is
especially true for Washingtonia filifera palms. Additionally, the full palm trees in the
downtown screen a lot of the less attractive aspects of the downtown design. Options
range from the current policy to eliminating the skirt entirely. After additional research, staff
is recommending that the policy for Washingtonia filiferas not be changed and that the
Washingtonia robustas have skirts maintained at approximately 6 feet from the lower green
palm fronds.
Skinning the palm tree involves removing the base of the palm frond from the trunk. This
procedure results in a clean, relatively smooth trunk. Currently there is no policy regarding
this practice. However, as the City replaces or adds new palm trees there has been an
effort made to match the existing palms near the new trees. In the downtown,
OpOf}48
Memo re Palm Tree Trimming Policy
February 19, 1997
Page 4
Washingtonia filifera palms are skinned to a height of approximately 12 feet. Trees which
were skinned prior to planting have not typically been skinned as the tree increases in
height. When Washingtonia robusta palms drop their skirts, the exposed trunks normally
look as it if they had been skinned.
Budget Considerations:
The City contract for palm tree trimming covers approximately 2500 trees. The estimated
cost to remove skirts would be $325,000, at an average of $130 per tree. On-going
maintenance if the skirts are removed would increase by approximately$15,000 to $49,000
annual maintenance cost (current contract is $34,267.60).
Considered separately, the cost to remove skirts on Palm Canyon Drive (City entry sign to
Sunrise Way) would be $143,000 and an annual maintenance cost of $3,250.
Approximately 1100 trees would be affected.
Removal of skirts on Tahquitz Canyon Drive median would cost approximately $13,000.
Approximately 100 trees are located in this median. Annual maintenance cost would
increase by $750.
The remaining palm trees are located within City properties such as parks, City Hall, Police
Center, Wastewater Treatment Plant, Airport and the Convention Center. Cost to trim
approximately 1300 trees would be $169,000.
Staff has prepared a revised policy which reflects the recommendations from Design
Review and updates references to City departments and advisory groups. The Parks and
Recreation Division staff has contacted Landscape West regarding the additional costs
associated with implementing the recommended policy. The cost to trim existing
Washingtonia robusta palm trees would be approximately $50 per tree. Currently the City
does not have an inventory that addresses the number and type of palm trees; therefore,
an estimate of the total cost cannot be made.
Any amendments to the Palm Tree Trimming Policy which increase cost will require a
budget amendment if desired this year, or added to the 1997-98 budget. Currently there
are no funds allocated for increased palm tree maintenance.
Attachments: City Council Minutes, November 6, 1996
Article in Desert Sun by Jim Cornett
Mosquito Abatement's "What you can do to Prevent and Control Rats"
MainStreet Weekly Progress Report, dated December 6, 1996.
Palm Tree Trimming Policy (existing)
Revised Policy _ Legislative Draft
Ono 94s