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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1/24/2018 - STAFF REPORTS - 4.A. �PpLM SAS iy A Q V N Cq<<FOR��P CITY COUNCIL STAFF REPORT DATE: January 24, 2018 NEW BUSINESS SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION OF THE REMOVAL OF EXISTING TAMARISK TREES LOCATED ALONG THE 14TH AND 15TH FAIRWAYS OF THE TAHQUITZ CREEK "LEGENDS" GOLF COURSE, AND ADOPTION OF A CEQA NOTICE OF EXEMPTION FROM: David H. Ready, City Manager BY: Marcus L. Fuller, Assistant City Manager SUMMARY Residents of the Lawrence Crossley neighborhood have requested that the City consider removing the existing row of tamarisk trees located along the west boundary of their neighborhood, along the east edge of the City's golf course. This action will allow the Council to consider authorizing staff to proceed with removal of the existing trees. RECOMMENDATION: 1. Authorize the removal of the existing tamarisk trees located along the east edge of Fairways #14 and #15 of the Tahquitz Creek "Legends" Golf Course, inclusive of such other remedial work associated with the removals, at a cost not to exceed $175,000; 2. Adopt a CEQA Notice of Exemption in accordance with the California Code of Regulations, Title 14, (CEQA Guidelines) § 15304(i); and 3. Authorize the City Manager or designee to take all actions needed to execute these actions. BACKGROUND: On April 3, 1958, the Desert Sun reported on the official ground-breaking of the Crossley Tract located at that time east of Palm Springs, in unincorporated Riverside County. As evidenced in the photo on the following page from the April 3, 1958, Desert Sun article, the tamarisk trees are visible in the background, indicating that these trees pre-dated the Crossley Tract development. ITEM NO. `�=_ City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 21 Removal of Tamarisk Trees i "Legends" Golf Course ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines, a list of classes of projects have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment, and are declared to be categorically exempt from the requirement for the preparation of environmental documents. In accordance with Section 15304 "Minor Alterations to Land," Class 4(i) projects consist of fuel management activities within 30 feet of structures to reduce the volume of flammable vegetation, provided that the activities will not result in the taking of endangered, rare, or threatened plant or animal species or significant erosion and sedimentation of surface waters. Class 4(i) projects also consist of fuel management activities within 100 feet of a structure if the public agency having fire protection responsibility for the area has determined that 100 feet of fuel clearance is required due to extra hazardous fire conditions. In this case, given the potential fire hazard represented by the overgrown tamarisk trees, it is recommended that the City Council adopt a Notice of Exemption pursuant to CEQA, in accordance with the Categorical Exemption provided for in Section 15304(i). A copy of the Notice of Exemption is included as Attachment 2, and will be filed with the Riverside County Clerk. FISCAL IMPACT: CGPM has obtained the following hw�-three bids for removal of the existing tamarisk trees: 1. Pro Landscaping Inca Thousand Palms, CA $150,800 2. Desert View Tree Service, Inc.; Palm Desert, CA $155,000 3. James O. Rue Construction Co., Inc.; Palm Desert, CA $168,437 Copies of these bids are included as Attachment 3. During the Council's consideration on January 3, 2018, to approve a lease-purchase agreement of new golf course equipment, the Council directed staff to set aside insurance proceeds related to the loss of various trees in and around the golf courses from a wind storm event on March 30, 2017, in the amount of $329,3361 to cover the cost of tamarisk tree removal or maintenance. These funds are currently received and available in the Golf Course Enterprise Fund operating account. Upon Council's approval to remove the tamarisk trees, staff will authorize CGPM to sub- contract directly with Desert View Tree Service and coordinate the work. As previously noted in this staff report, removal of the existing chain link fence will be required at an additional cost estimated at $20,000, and staff recommends that Council authorize the In consultation with CPGM, CPGM has reviewed the trees that were damaged or lost due to the wind storm, and has determined that they are not critical to play, and their replacement is not required. CPGM's Risk Manager has confirmed that the insurance proceeds from the wind storm do not need to be used to replace trees, and can be used by the City for other golf course related needs. PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760)343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: officeaa�ptoland-inc.com C27,D49 809796 January 18, 2018 Tahquitz Creek Golf Course 1885 Golf Club Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264 PROPOSAL&CONTRACT REMOVAL OF TAMARISK TREES LOCATED BETWEEN GOLF COURSE& LAWRENCE STREET RESIDENCES We hereby propose the following; • Schedule Dig Alert appointment, meet with utility companies • Remove approximately 1400 sq.feet of Tamarisk trees • Root removal • Branches which have been broken off or cut off • Hauling debris offsite caused by removals • Rough grading with D-5 Cat Dozer • Removal of fallen branches on Lawrence residences • *We will send required letters advising residents on Lawrence Street of when project will be started. • Expenses; labor,equipment,vehicles,fuel,overhead, insurance, required disposal fees PROJECT PRICE$150,800.00 PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: officekproland-inc.com C271 D49 809796 EXCLUSIONS • Due to roots growing onto and under fence,once trees are being removed fence integrity will be affected • Removal of branches grown into fence or under fence foundation • Block walls damaged upon extraction of roots • Repairs to existing/future damaged fence • Permits(can be obtained if necessary at cost) (Time will be billed extra) • Irrigation repairs • Backfill • Fine grading • Utilities relocation or damages • Repairs to any damages on Residences on Lawrence Street ATTACHMENTS • Pictures of some of the items listed as exclusions • Contractor's License • Insurance Certificates • Certified Arborist Certificate • Referral List of properties we have provided tree service Payment terms: 30%deposit upon acceptance, 70%upon completion, payment due upon receipt of invoices provided by Contractor NOTICE ARBITRATION OF DISPUTE'S Any controversy or claim arising out of or related to this contractor or the breach thereof,shall be settled by arbitration in accordance with the construction industry arbitration rules of theAmericon arbitration association,and judgement upon the award rendered by the arbitrator(s)may be entered in any court having jurisdiction thereof,claims within the monetary limit of the small claims court shall be litigated in such court at the request of either party,so long as both parties limit their right to recovery to the jurisdiction of the small claims court.Notice:By initialing in the space below you re agreeing to have any dispute arising out of the matters included in the'Arbitration of Disputes'provision decided by neutral arbitration as provided by California Law and you ore giving up any rights you might possess to have the dispute litigated in a court or jury trial.By initialing in the space below you are giving up judicial rights to discovery and appeal,unless those rights are specifically included in the Arbitration of Disputes'provision.If you refuse to submit to arbitration after agreeing to this provision,you may be compelled to arbitrate under the authority of the business and profession code or other applicable laws. your agreement to this arbitration provision is voluntary. "We have read and understand the foregoing and agree to submit disputes arising out of the PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: officeCa/proland-inc.com C27, D49 809796 matters included in the'Arbitration of Disputes'provision to neutral arbitration.""I(we)agree to arbitration: Initials Initials ATTENTION Section 7018 of the contractor's license law provides that starting July 1,1966,Everyone licensed by the Contractor's License Board shall give a copy of the Following notice to the payer prior to receiving from the owner of the property Or his agent any payment for work which a contractor's license is required. LIEN Under the mechanics'Lien Low,any subcontractor,laborer,supplier or other Person who helps to improve your property but is not paid for their work or Supplies,has a right to enforce a claim against your property.This means that,After a court hearing, your property could be said by a court officer,for the Proceeds of the sale used to satisfy the indebtedness. This can happen even -if You have paid your own contractor in full,if the subcontractor,laborer,or Supplier remained unpaid. ALTERATIONS/CHANGE ORDERS Any alterations or deviations from the above specifications involving extra cost Of material orlabor will only be executed upon written orders for same,and Will become an extra charge over sum mentioned in this proposal.All agreements Must be made in writing. DISCLAIMER Proposal costs have been calculated based on conditions visible to the naked eye.It is impossible to fully estimate unforeseen/unknown costs that may arise once projectstorts such as;drainage issues,roots from trees encroaching properties, utilities,erosion.Customer will be advised of findings and will be given change orders. PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: office(a�nroland-inc.com C27, D49 809796 PICTURES OF EXCLUSIONS sir PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: officeCae,.pcoland-inc.com C27,D49 809796 1, r r ... s � r , J b y Y PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 E: office@proland-inc.com pcoland-inc.com C27, D49 809796 f 44 < f!F 4 .. it 46 R y PRO LANDSCAPING INC P.O BOX 265 THOUSAND PALMS, CA 92276 P 6 (760) 343-0162 Fax: (760) 343-4804 F: office v,proland-inc.com C27, D49 809796 REFERRAL LIST Heritage Palms Golf Course Nathan Glaser(507) 273-8218 Vintage Club Golf Course Lane Stavi(760)578-5890 Indian Palms Country Club and Resort Ron Mahaffey(562) 326-3795 Cathedral Canyon Golf Club Rudy Cendejas (442)300-8105 Thunderbird Country Club Roger Compton (760)578-3620 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 2 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course The Desert Sue Thursday, April S. 1958 s Census Tracts I` SHOPPING in the SUS! (Plan Approved C wltr'1 Margie �By County Board S 1laraw Tfiav:ev .,lane Ftin�ew e-lIM The rapidly apprZehing occasion of F.amtrr mean► [Ar«lah«. r xiaty l.a " ~ much, but usually something different to each of w-l�red bi it; hoard of our- For one thing, it means that our Village suddenly buIMen an, rrere on rommmn'' tan Of o a gitmp ties by fhe Planning Careein•. 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Mil 9mIY, thn-Ilpe rurrN+u1'4e►nMa'Ir: f} fallen end TRt YFiTLYC TM • Ilk—i,e.•TOILE"tear on a l6ww trod w Man al!ost ae Re.rwn Read wM see maw Ran Taylor. d 11' :..Im aerirta Chynr of me at was Aamrelrr- ;a Natsd awn is a dram d tatw j uta u i M.far word•TO`aid I awe! d the�, Ynsa First inndrin wm a wily sbaA Itay I l ran as the Adis' �"1 d t. "Peapk,sell*04" Prrddaat M km lfvw alas on imported silk K TN far trrayw, Mil IAM'a aai1ra Tw word"Ica-MAXIMUM ft rmtrMernd will ewer Vinyl. mok•:thOlF IIIUi#Nbm alp � - to tw CUM Or POINTS PER Pn1pw hr We mwalip O nt r"' mall , IM hw�Rpe Drtofapmmf Al CreT. +i)eee*+ ;.Phaue at .: vwM +meth srraneeA rwerher WNE 15 FIVE.Taaeaaw yau.nw conwaUon b) Cn,eeteY- Urtosrcs w-tM erwnd•br•Mtutg core. an N City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 3 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course P Y air LAE l' 4 e Alas + c ar t ; yy a, t All ti w .. A _• c a` e (t (.Rot %D BRtAKER tawtrnee ("wdey dlga up the fund shovelful ktt. to naht. Ir I Re!!, Sun Spa vies fie"W olt; Joe Pelmtrt. real of earth tur a new low east remit area houstnit pro)rtt^t, t:radma eatale Make► Fah' IVO perttes is the land lswawetlae; atarted vesterday up the lute of !be 77•►lome derelottment located .rontreew Janw% lt:aiet. Fred Smith, *,MwSpo aeemaiy-treawrn. on a to acre tract otw mile abua of Rr non Rood Mil one mile Iteb Tartar. of tt! i'.11m Sprmsts t'hxpter of the Vationati !4 nnela east of the rhr limits, FirA roakls will he r"dy about Nay i tion for the Advao.ci.ent nil Cntomd Pet4de, and Sue•9lwil Pro„4ent Property for the subdivision rl,Y vnld to the ;un•Sps Development U Cam. IDew-" u, PluAui ! rorlwatitln by CrY..%kv Onlmi -q on'the arolmd-hreakln* ufte. The land, owned by Lawrence and Martha Crossley, established a subdivision of 77 lots located south of 34th Avenue. Many of the original homes within the Crossley Tract were constructed from 1958 to 1961 . Another article dated July 27, 1958, from the Los Angeles Times, titled "Huge Development Set for Palm Springs Area," noted construction of a 18-hole championship golf course and residential development by Westview Development Corp. ("Westview°), with completion of the golf course expected by the fall of 1958. The Article reference is provided on the following page. tl l City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 4 Removal of Tamarisk Trees I "Legends" Golf Course T. Huge Development Set for Palm SRrinas Area • .` ti A BY FRANK D7ULCAHY will feature swimming pools, Assistant Real Estate Editor recreation and sport; facili- I Final detai;s of a major ties. development in the P a 1 m Construction has already Springs area were an. begun on the golf course,de- nounced by Marton B. Zuc- -signed by Lawrence Hughes. A / r kerman, noted Chicago resi• and completion is expected V ; t dential and commercial de by fall. veto er and president of the Owners of homcsitcs, cot- V1' " p tagcs or lots in the new de• Westview Det elopment velopment will automatical- rnrn. Iy become members of the _ The de.elooment will be Palmj located on a;S2-acre site ad-iwhich Springs Golf Club, ainmg the eastern bound-Iv is chartered as a prf- ware ate country club,it was an- •-, • 1�--- city of Palm Springs city pounced. limits and on the north side I Frank Bogart, executive j _yam j� of Highway 111. When lully si ce-president of the West- a, _ .e :7lltw'tx✓u7 s:HevcU V developed 7t will represent view Development Corp..and U 'g a total investment of approx- imately S15,000Aoo, Zucker- `7.y man said. Springs reactor,are in charge of sales. A, O rt .70 r Details Given The land was purchased from the Palm Springs Capi- tar Co.for a sum in excess of IS1 i was reported. Inctude i '"� :o;�cs,,..,...:�.+..•.Isi+ux f Included n the develop- : � ` �! ment program will be the -• �, �� construction or Soo garden (cottages, 240 k.omesites bar- : RESORT PROJECT—Above is pion of aro,)osed country cub proiect to be de- !Fe hol the fairways of an vela d b Westview Dever ment n 332-acre site adjoining eastern ;•£'-hole championship golf De Y °P Corp.rP� I S �coursc, a clubhouse.-a mod- boundary of Palm Springs city limits on Highway 11 1, Project includes: A— ern shoppirg center and a Residentm —l areas, bordering fairways of golf course. BGarden Cottage area. imp)or resort here! . C—Shopping area. D—Hotel area, Total investment will be SI5,0_^0,000. i 'the garden cottar ze area Following initial construction of the original golf course by Westview in 1958, on February 4, 1959, the City Council approved entering into a lease-option agreement with Westview to acquire the golf course with certain terms and conditions including completion of the remaining golf course, a golf driving range, and site for a clubhouse. Subsequently, on February 26, 1959, the City Council approved the lease agreement with Westview, which was executed on March 4, 1959. Based on the photo in the April 3, 1958, Desert Sun article, and the references from the July 27, 1958, Los Angeles Times article: • The Crossley Tract initiated construction in April 1958, at which time it appears that the tamarisk trees were already planted; • The City did not construct the Municipal Golf Course, or plant the existing tamarisk trees; • The City acquired the Municipal Golf Course through a lease-purchase agreement executed in 1959, and completed the acquisition in 1965; City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 5 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course A historic aerial photo from October 30, 1965, (north direction is at the top) shows the City's Municipal Golf Course (shown in bottom center of photo) in relation to the surrounding area which was predominantly undeveloped and open desert, with the exception of the Crossley Tract immediately adjacent to the Municipal Golf Course to the east and the Westview golf course residential development to the west. Ramon Road is shown running east/west near the top of the photo, with the old drive-in theater located near the intersection of Ramon Road and Crossley Road. a ! poop i M _ram . ' , - . 'a - N Y 1 ill r5 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 6 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course A close-up view of the aerial photo is shown here, with the existing row of tamarisk trees along the east side of the Municipal Golf Course adjacent to the Crossley Tract at the time the photo was taken on October 30, 1965, and with an additional row of tamarisk trees also evident within the interior of the Crossley Tract. t I " Based on the historic records, staff has determined that the row of tamarisk trees was not planted by the City, and it is not clear from the record if these trees were planted by Westview as part of the original golf course, or in the same time frame as the anticipated development of the Crossley Tract by Lawrence Crossley, potentially as a windbreak to protect homeowners living in the Crossley Tract. It is worth noting that tamarisk trees have been used as a windbreak in Palm Springs and throughout the Coachella Valley, for decades, as a means to prevent blowing sand in h aerial photo on the previous page, from causing damage to properties. As shown the p p p g , tamarisk trees were planted along the west side of a residential subdivision located at that time in unincorporated Riverside County east of the drive-in theater and south of Ramon Road; a close-up view of that area is provided on the following page. (� C City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 7 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course 17 a r t r` r r ICI They were also planted as a windbreak adjacent to the former (now abandoned) Palm Springs Country Club golf course, as shown in additional aerial photos from October 30, 1965, on the following page. City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 8 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course i '�t rr. 1 f ' 1 TypeSim:2 Image { 203 KB 7, i, :nrens„n_61Sa F5C ox ` .0 1�r3 iv y j { City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 9 Removal of Tamarisk Trees I "Legends" Golf Course The existing tamarisk trees adjacent to the former Palm Springs Country Club golf course remain around the Four Seasons development and the Golden Sands mobile home park, as shown in current aerial photo below. AVA E_J k � Tamarisk trees were also planted as a windbreak along the west edge of the residential subdivision located north of Vista Chino in Cathedral City, as shown in the current aerial photo on the next page. i` City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 10 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course •L� Ll1 .. w. ri1F V. CC tILC!'NECI`IC1IF tL \ • -` 1 A w.AT Ma `Ai ;W � . Ifni , r1 IA Since 2008, the City has utilized a contractor, (CGPM Managers, LLC, a Texas limited liability company, ["CGPM"]), for the management and operation of the City-owned Legends and Resort Golf Courses. Under the City's contract with CGPM, CGPM provides all landscape maintenance services associated with the City's golf courses. A map of the "Legends" golf course is shown on the next page. 10 0 • • - A toy 110, Do- Y JU 11 Woe if . �'.gri: vg k. a ,*rg _! `, 1t i ` Qi ;s!•!�„ #Owl too 4� S.i •�,,'y ` , 4 `91 y+7t• ,fe•�. P'. `"- ...,,... on Ivan% Jt lot MAMMA Pllp� Irma r+ • �, City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 12 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course A close-up view of Fairways #14 & #15 is provided here: • 1.S 17 !! u With regard to the existing row of tamarisk trees along the easterly edge of Fairways #14 & #15, CGPM annually sub-contracted trimming of these trees to landscape contractors to maintain overgrowth extending into the rear yards of the adjacent properties. Southern California Edison (SCE) also performed tree trimming (topping) of a certain length of the row of tamarisk trees to prevent encroachment of trees into SCE's overhead power lines. Over time, the row of tamarisk trees has become overgrown and is a solid barrier along the east edge of the golf course, as shown in the photos on the following pages. 42 ReportCity Council Staff Page 13 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Le. Course t . T P I`' Y� FF11 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 14 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course . 4Y I P. LL ;e �.x Y�yyyq rya K t 77 t 1 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018--Page 15 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course STAFF ANALYSIS: In response to the requests received from residents of the Lawrence Crossley neighborhood, staff investigated the options available to addressing the overgrown tamarisk trees, including "topping" to a maximum height of 8 feet, or removal. Staff obtained an opinion from the City's Arborist (AborPro, Inc.), who concluded that topping the tamarisk trees would "...cause irreparable harm to the health of the trees, likely resulting in a substantial portion dying...The health of the hedge cannot be guaranteed with such an aggressive procedure." A copy of the Arborist's report is included as Attachment 1. An aerial survey was previously completed of the City's golf courses, which shows the edge of the tamarisk tree canopy extending over the east edge of the golf course and over the boundary between the golf course and adjacent Crossley Tract. The aerial survey is provided on the following pages. The adjacent homes within the Lawrence Crossley neighborhood have a chain link fence along their west (rear) property line, generally located on the City's golf course, separating the tamarisk trees from their property; however, the tamarisk trees in most cases have become overgrown and extend over into these properties. The City's Fire Department has reviewed the tamarisk trees to determine if the trees represent a fire hazard, and has advised that these trees consist of vegetation that contains very low moisture content and readily burns, and are considered tall, vertical fuels that burn quite well. In addition, the accumulation of needles and other debris caused by the tamarisk trees, both on the golf course and into the rear yards of the adjacent properties, increases the potential for a fire hazard. # 5 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 16 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course 32 S �I t I 9..9 i een e 2..2 7-op rrap � 29. 3 J1..3 f �! Fairway O OBS, I O X..7 rnl.rnv i City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 17 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course ° 33..3 S OBS. 0 V �i 3 OBS OBS Q 32..8 ° OBS. 36..2 3 ..3 T i 35..5 o Green — 1 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 18 Removal of Tamarisk Trees I "Legends" Golf Course The overgrown tamarisk trees may represent a public nuisance warranting their removal. Alternatively, in lieu of complete removal, the City Council could consider performing maintenance on the trees to "limb-up" the trees to reduce the potential fire hazard, thinning the overgrowth between the trees, such that the trees are maintained and have an appearance similar to the tamarisk trees along Belardo Road adjacent to the O'Donnell Golf Course, shown here: ;y R' It should be understood that if the tamarisk trees are removed, the rear yards of the properties adjacent to the golf course have a chain link fence located on the golf course, with some portions of these chain link fences missing or damaged due to the overgrown trees. Removal of the trees will also require removal of the existing fence. If the tamarisk trees are removed, the City Council may want to consider appropriating sufficient budget for planting of trees to recreate a landscape buffer similar to that which exists across Fairways #14 and #15 at the Mountain Shadows condominium development, as shown in the photos on the following pages. 18 City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018 -- Page 19 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course L ,, r ReportCity Council Staff Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Le. Course ��y w City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 21 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT: Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines, a list of classes of projects have been determined not to have a significant effect on the environment, and are declared to be categorically exempt from the requirement for the preparation of environmental documents. In accordance with Section 15304 "Minor Alterations to Land," Class 4(i) projects consist of fuel management activities within 30 feet of structures to reduce the volume of flammable vegetation, provided that the activities will not result in the taking of endangered, rare, or threatened plant or animal species or significant erosion and sedimentation of surface waters. Class 4(i) projects also consist of fuel management activities within 100 feet of a structure if the public agency having fire protection responsibility for the area has determined that 100 feet of fuel clearance is required due to extra hazardous fire conditions. In this case, given the potential fire hazard represented by the overgrown tamarisk trees, it is recommended that the City Council adopt a Notice of Exemption pursuant to CEQA, in accordance with the Categorical Exemption provided for in Section 15304(i). A copy of the Notice of Exemption is included as Attachment 2, and will be filed with the Riverside County Clerk. FISCAL IMPACT: CGPM has obtained the following two bids for removal of the existing tamarisk trees: 1. Desert View Tree Service, Inc.; Palm Desert, CA $155,000 2. James O. Rue Construction Co., Inc.; Palm Desert, CA $168,437 Copies of these bids are included as Attachment 3. During the Council's consideration on January 3, 2018, to approve a lease-purchase agreement of new golf course equipment, the Council directed staff to set aside insurance proceeds related to the loss of various trees in and around the golf courses from a wind storm event on March 30, 2017, in the amount of $329,3361 to cover the cost of tamarisk tree removal or maintenance. These funds are currently received and available in the Golf Course Enterprise Fund operating account. Upon Council's approval to remove the tamarisk trees, staff will authorize CGPM to sub- contract directly with Desert View Tree Service and coordinate the work. As previously noted in this staff report, removal of the existing chain link fence will be required at an additional cost estimated at $20,000, and staff recommends that Council authorize the City Manager to incur related costs associated with the tree removal in an amount not to exceed $175,000. In consultation with CPGM, CPGM has reviewed the trees that were damaged or lost due to the wind storm, and has determined that they are not critical to play, and their replacement is not required. CPGM's Risk Manager has confirmed that the insurance proceeds from the wind storm do not need to be used to replace trees, and can be used by the City for other golf course related needs. ? i City Council Staff Report January 24, 2018-- Page 22 Removal of Tamarisk Trees "Legends" Golf Course The balance of any budget remaining may be used to install new trees and landscape along this area, consistent with the landscaping provided adjacent to the westerly edge of Fairways #14 and #15 represented in the photos provided in the prior pages of this staff report, as directed by Council. SUBMITTED Marcus L. Fuller, MPA, P.E., P.L.S. Edward Z. Kotkin Assistant City Manager City Attorney David H. Ready, Esq., P City Manager Attachments: 1. Arborist Report 2. Notice of Exemption 3. Bids ? 2 Attachment 1 Arberrp%ro URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT Location: Palm Springs Golf Course Tree Specie:Tamarix aphylla/salt cedar Kenneth Kershaw asked me to inspect a large Tamarisk hedge on the Palm Springs Golf Course. This hedge is located between the Palm Springs Golf Course and the opposing neighborhood to the East. From my experience, It seems as if a portion of the hedge has been maintained by Edison for line clearance as a way keep the top of the trees out of contact with the overhead cables. Please see image below for hedge in question. Now . i The environmental advantages of the current hedge include shade,temperature reduction, soil stabilization and it can act as a windbreak.The disadvantages include the need for water to sustain the health of the hedge. The current health of the hedge would be rated as fair to poor.The tree has been topped numerous times causing it to be in a constant state of stress. t. ' y ArborPro Inc., 22605 La Palma Ave 3l509 Yorba Linda, CA 92887 (714) 694-1924 Fax: (714) 694-1981 www.arborprousa.com ArberPro URBAN FOREST MANAGEMENT The proposed idea for this hedge is to reduce it down to no more than 8 feet. The extensive work that will be needed to complete this will cause irreparable harm to the health of the trees, likely resulting in a substantial portion dying.The process of lowering the stature of these trees will decrease the aesthetic appeal of the hedge as well.The health of the hedge cannot be guaranteed with such an aggressive procedure. In addition, the severe lowering of these trees could lead to sugar stress. Sugar stress is when the growth of the tree becomes adventitious, and water sprouts erupt from the dormant buds leading to a yearly maintenance issue and is not in the best interest of the Tamarix aphylla Thank you for the opportunity to evaluate the trees at the Beautiful Palm Springs Golf Course. If any further information is needed,feel free to contact me at anytime. Jeffrey Davidson Certified Arborist for ArborPro, Inc. 1effdCcDarborprousa.com 714-694-1924 ArborPro Inc., 22605 La Palma Ave#509 Yorba Linda, CA 92887 (714) 694-1924 Fax: (714)694-1981 www.arborprousa.com � S Attachment 2 26 NOTICE OF EXEMPTION To: ❑ Office of Planning and Research From: City of Palm Springs 1400 Tenth Street, Room 121 3200 E.Tahquitz Canyon Way Sacramento, CA 95814 Palm Springs, CA 92262 ® Clerk of the Board County of Riverside P.O. Box 751 Riverside, CA 92502-0751 Project Title: Palm Sorings"Legends" Golf Course (Fairways#14 &#15): Fuel Management Activity Project Applicant: City of Palm Springs Project Location (Specific): Easterly Edge of Fairways#14&#15, Palm Springs"Legends' Golf Course Project Location(City): City of Palm Springs Project Location(County): Riverside Project Description: Removal of existing tamarisk trees. Name of Public Agency Approving Project: City of Palm Springs Name of Person or Agency Carrying Our Project: Bandon Alexander; CGPM Managers, LLC Exempt Status: (check one) ❑ Ministerial(Sec.21080(b)(1); 15268); ❑ Declared Emergency(Sec. 21080(b)(3); 15269(a)); ❑ Emergency Project(Sec.21080(b)(4); 15269(b)(c)); ® Categorical Exemption. State type and section number: 15304 Class 4(i)— Fuel management activities" within 30 feet of structures to reduce the volume of flammable vegetation, provided that the activities will not result in the taking of endangered, rare, or threatened plant or animal species or significant erosion and sedimentation of surface waters; or fuel management activities within 100 feet of a structure if the public agency having fire protection responsibility for the area has determined that 100 feet of fuel clearance is required due to extra hazardous fire conditions. ❑ Statutory Exemptions.State code number: Reasons why project is exempt: The City has determined that the existing row of tamarisk trees may represent a potential fire hazard, and is located within 50 feet of adjacent residential properties. Removal of the tamarisk trees is considered a "fuel management activity,"and there are no endangered, rare,or threatened plant or animal species located on the property. Lead Agency Contact Person: Marcus Fuller Area Code/Telephone/Extension: (760)322-8380 If filed by applicant: 1.Attach certified document of exemption finding. 2.Has a Notice of Exemption been filed by the public agency approving the project? ❑Yes ❑ No Signature: Date: Title: Assistant City Manager ®Signed by Lead Agency ❑Signed by Applicant Authority cited: Sections 21083 and 21110, Public Resources Code Date received for filing at OPR: Reference: Sections 21108, 21152, and 21152.1, Public Resources Code. 27 Attachment 3 Desert View Tree Service Inc. 72894 Sierra Vista Dr Palm Desert, CA 92260 bobbycantudvts@yahoo.com ADDRESS ESTIMATE 1074 Tahquitz Creek Golf Course 1885 Golf Club Drive Palm Springs, CA 92264 •ATE 0 Attn:Carlos/760-324-8122 SERVICE ACTIVITY OTY RATE AMOUNT Project: Golf Course Hedge Remove Tamarisk Hedge; approximately (1,400 Lineal Ft) 155,000.00 155,000.00 Removal including removal of Root Ball and debris offsite. ****We are open,to a counter offer**** Additional charges may apply, if project requires encroachment permit. Thank You.. • 111 11 Accepted By Accepted Date DVTS Contractor Lic#650159-C61/D49 P 760-779-1167"F 760-776-4947 C 760-578-0508 ? 9 James O. Rue Construction Co., Inc. Grading Contractors PO Box 13810, Palm Desert, CA 92255 Ofc:760-200-8717 Fax: 760-200-8727 CA License#516895 AZ/ROC237120 PROPOSAL Date: 12/28/2017 To: Robert Espinosa Project: Taquitz Creek Tamarisk tree removal Scope of Work Proposed:James O.Rue Construction Co.,Inc.agrees to fumish all labor, material,equipment and supervision in the execution of the following scope of work.The work will be done in a prompt and efficient manner and in accordance with the approved plans and specifications. # Description Quantity Unit Price Amount 1 Remove 1500 linial feet of tamarisk trees, includes resonable 1 ea 168437 168,437.00 root removal and weed killer. Does not include chasing of roots $ - past fence line. Does not include fencing for houses. - Price based on load haul and dispose of tamarisk trees and the - shedding material that has not decomposed. $ Rue Construction to call Edison to trim trees away from power lines, Rue construction to schedule. Any addional requirements $ from Edison beyond reason will be billed as an extra. Care will be given while removing trees but we will not be $ responsible for damage from steel track machines. $ - Sprinkler lines to be capped by golf course. $ - Total Amount $ 168,437.00 Construction Notes: 1 Bid includes listed items&Onsite work only. 2 Bid excludes:Soil testing,engineering,inspections,permit fees,construction water costs,over-excavation in streets,utility removal, relocation,and adjustment,structural excavation and backfill,retaining wall and block wall over-excavation. 3 Site graded resonabally flat,owner to supply suficent supply of water near construction boundry. James O. Rue Construction Co., Inc. Noble Mandeville 70