A-41
JOHN VANG JD
Senior Associate
John is a senior associate on the air quality, greenhouse gas, and noise assessment team. His background and experience give him a solid foundation in quantitative and qualitative analysis—a valuable asset and indispensable to the assessment of environmental impacts. He completes and assists with technical analyses for a wide variety of projects—general plans and specific plans; schools; and developments with commercial, industrial, warehouse, residential, and mixed uses.
John was a beta-tester for CalEEMod versions 2013, 2016, and 2020, and he is proficient in the various modeling software for air quality and health risk technical studies, such as EMFAC, OFFROAD, HARP, and AERMOD. He also has experience preparing energy, traffic, and other sections for CEQA documents.
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERIENCE
CEQA Analysis
• Downtown Davis Specific Plan and Form Based Code EIR | Davis CA • Prologis Vermont and Redondo Project EIR | Los Angeles CA • Proposed Rule 2305 and Proposed Rule 316 EA | South Coast Air Quality Management District
• Jackson Ranch Specific Plan EIR | Kings County CA
• Ontario Ranch Business Park Specific Plan EIR | Ontario CA • City of Corona General Plan Update EIR | Corona CA
• City of Jurupa Valley Etiwanda Avenue/Country Village Road Truck Restriction Ordinance EIR | Jurupa Valley CA
• Hayward Downtown Specific Plan and Associated Zoning Code Update EIR | Hayward CA
• Southwest Fresno Specific Plan EIR | Fresno CA
• City of Hope Campus Plan EIR | Duarte CA
• Warner Avenue Widening, Main Street to Grand Avenue EIR | Santa Ana CA • Los Angeles County General Plan Update EIR | Los Angeles County CA • Clovis General Plan and Development Code Update EIR | Clovis CA • Pasadena General Plan EIR | Pasadena CA
• Landmark Hotel EIR | San Carlos CA
• Temple Industrial Warehouse/Office | Industry CA
• San Clemente General Plan EIR | San Clemente CA
• Harbor Corridor Specific Plan EIR | Santa Ana CA
• Crummer Site Subdivision EIR | Malibu CA
• The Platinum Triangle Subsequent EIRs | Anaheim CA
• Moran Street Specific Plan EIR | Westminster CA
• Fresno El Paseo Master Plan EIR | Fresno CA
• Circulation Element Update & MND | Fountain Valley CA • Greenspot Village & Marketplace Specific Plan EIR | Highland CA
EDUCATION
• Master of Urban Planning, Design,
& Development, Cleveland State
University
• Juris Doctor, Cleveland-Marshall
College of Law, Cleveland State
University
• BA, Anthropology, University of
California, Los Angeles
ACTIVITIES
• CalEEMod Emissions Inventory
Model Beta-Testing | South Coast
Air Quality Management District
Team member since 2008
Item Number: 16.
A-42
JOHN VANG
Senior Associate
[email protected]
• Vortex Specific Plan EIR | Desert Hot Springs CA
• Ontario General Plan Update EIR | Ontario CA
• Puente Hills Intermodal Facility EIR | Industry CA
• Logistics Terminals, Inc., Development Plan & Zone Exception IS | Industry CA Technical Studies
• 506 Brookside Drive Industrial Project Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas | North Richmond CA
• Greenleaf Business Center, Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Operational Health Risk Assessment | Santa Fe Springs CA • 14th & Long Beach Boulevard Affordable Housing Project Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Long Beach CA
• Rancho Cucamonga Fire Protection District Fire Training Center, Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Rancho Cucamonga CA
• Anaheim Energy Organic Waste to Energy Facility Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Anaheim CA
• Serramonte Shopping Center Expansion Construction Health Risk Assessment | Daly City CA
• Landmark Hotel Construction Health Risk Assessment | San Carlos CA • Torrance Memorial Medical Center | Torrance CA
• Noise Monitoring for Specific Highways, Noise Memorandum | Cerritos CA • Coca-Cola Warehouse Expansion Air Quality Memorandum | Orange CA • Carlsbad New High School No. 2 Noise Impacts on Least Bell’s Vireo and California Gnatcatcher Habitat | Carlsbad USD
• Distrito La Novia San Juan Meadows Planned Community Air Quality and Noise | San Juan Capistrano CA
• Green Dot Public Schools High School Air Quality and Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Los Angeles County CA
• Sycamore Academy Greenhouse Gas Emissions | Wildomar CA School Facilities Planning
• UC Berkeley Long Range Development Plan EIR | University of California • Southwest Campus EIR | Mt. San Jacinto Community College District • Menifee Valley Campus EIR | Mt. San Jacinto Community College District • SAUSD Sports Complex EIR | Santa Ana USD
• Ontario High School Improvements EIR | Chaffey Joint Union High School District
• Wiseburn High School Sports Complex | Wiseburn USD
• School Upgrade Program EIR | Los Angeles USD
• Castaic High School EIR | William S. Hart Union High School District • Middle School No. 8.75 IS/MND | Fontana USD
• Citrus Continuation High School IS/MND | Fontana USD
• Jurupa Hills Adult Education Center Conversion IS/MND | Fontana USD • New High School at College and Cannon EIR | Carlsbad USD • South Region Elementary School No. 12 EIR | Los Angeles USD Item Number: 16.
A-43
CHRIS SHIELDS
Senior Associate, Noise, Vibration, and Acoustics
Chris possesses a strong background in noise control, noise propagation, frequency analysis and engineering practices, coupled with extensive noise synthesis computer-modeling experience. His work experience includes the preparation of technical studies and related sections of CEQA and NEPA documents for commercial, industrial, residential, mixed-use recreation, educational, infrastructure, and other development projects. Chris’ experience includes noise analyses for federal, state, and local agencies with the use of computer models published by the EPA, FHWA, and Caltrans.
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERIENCE
• East Bay Regional Park District’s North Point Isabel Stand Alone Report | Richmond CA
• UC Berkeley Bancroft Parking Structure IS | Berkeley CA • Artesia Downtown Specific Plan EIR | Artesia CA
• Barstow General Plan EIR | Barstow CA
• Hollister General Plan EIR | Hollister CA
• Canyon Middle School ISMND for Canyon Valley USD | Castro Valley CA
PRIOR EXPERIENCE
• Feather River Levee Repair Project EIR | Yuba County CA • Rancho Cordova Suncreek Revised EIR/EIS | Rancho Cordova CA • The Ranch at Sunridge EIR/EIS | Rancho Cordova CA
• Prairie City State Vehicular Recreation Area General Plan and EIR | Rancho Cordova CA
• Citrus Heights General Plan Update, Climate Action Plan, and EIR | Citrus Heights CA
• Capitol Villas Redevelopment Project EIR | Sacramento CA • Brookins Ranch Monitoring | Colusa County CA
• Atherton Drive Gap Closure IS/MND EA-FONSI | Manteca CA • Union Crossing EIR | Manteca CA
• Galt Wastewater Treatment Plant Pipeline Project | Galt CA • Lodi/Delta College Master Plan and EIR | San Joaquin County CA • Brockway Erosion Control Project IEC | Placer County CA • Martis Creek Lake Dam Safety Modification Study EIS | Nevada County CA • Elk Grove USD Cosumnes River Elementary School Expansion Project EIR | Elk Grove CA
• San Juan USD Rio Americano High School Sports Facilities Upgrade EIR | Sacramento CA
• Crows Landing Industrial Business Park Specific Plan and EIR | Crows Landing CA • Folsom South of US Highway 50 Specific Plan EIR/EIS | Sacramento County CA • Natomas Levee Improvement Program EIR, EIS, and EIR/EIS | Sacramento County CA
EDUCATION
• BA, Environmental Studies (Minor
in Geology), California State
University, Sacramento
Team member since 2024
Item Number: 16.
A-44
CHRIS SHIELDS
Senior Associate
[email protected]
• Caltrans District 3, TO 53 Yuba Highway 20 | Yuba County CA • Chevron Corporation WMEP CEQA Support | Richmond CA
• SCVWD Alviso Slough Restoration Project | Santa Clara County CA • Small Erosion Repair Program Program EIR | Central Valley CA • San Joaquin River Restoration Program PEIR/PEIS | Fresno County CA • Burbank Air Quality Element, Climate Action Plan, and General Plan Update PEIR | Burbank CA
• Pier S Marine Terminal and Back Channel Improvement EIS | Long Beach CA • Mariposa Lakes Specific Plan EIR | San Joaquin County CA Item Number: 16.
A-45
STEVE BUSH PE
Senior Engineer
Steve’s eclectic skill set covers a wide range of technical services. He leads our risk assessment practice, providing air toxics/health risk, pipeline safety, railroad safety, and EMF risk analyses for development projects and schools. As a member of the CEQA team’s hydrology and engineering group, Steve has completed hydrology, water supply assessment and utilities systems analyses for a variety of projects, including residential development, industrial warehousing, and schools projects. He coordinates regularly with public agencies regarding pipeline risk analyses, flooding impacts, and other safety hazards for the preparation of CEQA sections. He is proficient in different air quality modeling software such as CalEEMod, AERMOD, and HARP.
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERIENCE
Environmental and Health Risk Assessments
• Health Risk Assessment for Mexico Plaza Residences | Lynwood CA • UC Berkeley LRDP Health Risk Assessment | Berkeley CA • Dam Inundation Study for Plumas Lake HS | Wheatland CA • Health Risk Assessment for CNG Fueling & Storage | Etiwanda CA • Health Risk Assessment & Railroad Safety Study for Eastside Neighborhood School | Riverside CA
• Pipeline/Railroad/Health Risk Assessments for Lomita Park ES | Millbrae CA • Los Angeles Unified School District EMF Guidance Revisions | Los Angeles CA • Dam Inundation Study for Brownell Middle School | Gilroy CA • Pipeline/EMF/Dam Inundation Studies for Blue Oak Academy | Visalia CA • Health Risk Assessment for Geffen Academy at UCLA | Westwood CA • Pipeline Safety Hazard Assessments for Jefferson School District | Tracy CA • Aboveground Water Tank Safety Hazard Assessment for Helen Keller ES | Riverside CA
• Health Risk Assessment and Railroad Safety Study for Martin Luther King Jr Middle School | Hayward CA
• CNG and Propane Risk Assessment for Ramona Elementary School | Moreno Valley CA
Hydrology and Utilities
• Water Supply Assessment for Brea Mall Redevelopment Project | Brea CA • Conceptual Hydrology Study for Eastside Neighborhood School | Riverside CA • CEQA EIR Sections for City of San Rafael General Plan | San Rafael CA • CEQA EIR Sections for City of Los Banos General Plan | Los Banos CA • CEQA EIR Sections for City of Ontario General Plan | Ontario CA • CEQA EIR Sections for Broadway Plaza | Redwood City CA • Hydrology/FEMA Determination Study for New Elementary School | Gilroy CA
EDUCATION
• MS, Chemical Engineering,
University of California, Los Angeles
• BS, Chemical Engineering,
University of California, Santa
Barbara CA
REGISTRATIONS
• State of California Professional
Engineer No. 83997
AFFILIATIONS
• Air & Waste Management
Association (AWMA)
Team member since 2007
Item Number: 16.
A-46
STEVE BUSH
Senior Engineer
[email protected]
Air Quality/GHG and CEQA
• 506 Brookside Drive Industrial Warehouse, Richmond CA • 101 Halcyon Drive Industrial Warehouse | San Leandro CA • Cupertino Village Hotel Project | Cupertino CA
Site Investigation
• Phase 1 ESA for Southeast Greenway Plan | Santa Rosa CA • Environmental Oversight of Remedial Action Plan for LAUSD Central Region Elementary School No. 20 | Los Angeles CA
• Site Remediation for former Sargent Industries Property | Huntington Park CA • Phase I Environmental Site Assessments for City Recreation and Parks | Los Angeles CA
• Fontana USD High School Site No. 5 | Fontana CA
• Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for City of San Rafael Fire Station 52, and 57 | San Rafael CA
• Phase I Environmental Site Assessment for City of San Rafael Public Safety Center | San Rafael CAHigh School No. 5 Alternate Sites EIR | Moreno Valley CA • Citrus Heritage Middle School IS/MND | Riverside USD
• Crummer Site Subdivision EIR | Malibu CA
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
• “Translating CBIA v. BAAQMD: Bridging the Gap Between the Holding and Practice,” 2017 AEP Conference, San Francisco, CA
• “Avoiding the Unequal Burdens of the Past: The Future Role of Environmental Justice in CEQA,” 2018 AEP Conference, Rancho Mirage, CA
PUBLICATIONS
• With J. Curren, S. Ha, M. Stenstrom, S. Lau, and I.H. Suffet, “Identification of subwatershed sources for chlorinated pesticides and polychlorinated biphenyls in the Ballona Creek watershed,” Science of The Total Environment 403, no. 13 (2011): 2525–33
• With M. Philibert, F. L. Rosario-Ortiz, and I. H. Suffet, “Advances in the characterization of the polarity of DOM under ambient water quality conditions using the polarity rapid assessment method,” Water Science & Technology: Water Supply 8, no. 6 (2008): 725–733
AWARDS
• Engineering Honor Society, Tau Beta Pi, 2002
Item Number: 16.
A-47
DINA ELCHAMMAS GASS PE,QSD
Senior Engineer
Dina is a member of the Environmental Planning team and Technical Services Group. She provides technical support related to hydrology, water quality, geology and soils, hazards and hazardous materials, and utilities, including third-party peer reviews, water supply assessments, written verifications of water supply, and utility capacity reports. Dina also has experience performing quantitative health risk assessments and pipeline safety hazard assessments.
Dina processes, oversees, and manages CEQA projects; contributes research, analysis, and review—particularly in the fields of water quality, hydrology, utilities, geology and soils, and hazards and hazardous materials; and prepares CEQA compliant documents.
Dina came to PlaceWorks with eclectic experience in the fields of sustainability, environmental engineering, and sustainable watershed management. She was an assistant professor of sustainability and an environmental engineer in the Gulf and Caspian regions, where she prepared and implemented environmental management plans; pollution prevention plans; and management plans for waste, water, and wastewater.
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERIENCE
Hydrology/Water Quality, and Utilities
• On-Call Services for Water Supply Assessments and Written Verifications of Water Supply | Ontario CA
• Wine Country Specific Plan Water Demand and Supply Study | Yucaipa CA • Phase I of the Original Model Colony Adept Water Supply Assessment and Written Verification of Water Supply | Ontario CA
• Merrill Commerce Center Specific Plan Water Supply Assessment | Ontario CA • Ontario Ranch Business Park Specific Plan Water Supply Assessment | Ontario CA
• Jackson Ranch Specific Plan Water Supply Assessment | Kettleman City CA • Westminster Mall Specific Plan Water Supply Assessment | Westminster CA • Irwindale Gateway Specific Plan Third Party Review: Hydrology Report, LID Report, Sewer Study, Utility Study, and WSA | Irwindale CA • 4416 Azusa Canyon Road Tilt-up Warehouse Third Party Peer Review:
Hydrology Report, Hydraulics Report, and WQMP | Irwindale CA • Aqua Mansa Specific Plan Third Party Peer Review: Utility Report and WSA | Jurupa Valley CA
• Disneyland Resort Four Diamond Hotel Third Party Peer Review: Hydrology Report, WQMP, and WSA |Anaheim CA
EDUCATION
• Master of Engineering,
Environmental and Water
Resources Engineer, American
University of Beirut, Lebanon
• Bachelor of Engineering, Civil
Engineering, American University of
Beirut, Lebanon
• MA, East Asian Studies, Maharishi
University of Management,
Fairfield, Iowa
AFFILIATIONS
• California Stormwater Association
(CASQA)
REGISTRATIONS
• State of California Professional
Engineer No. 91182
• State Water Resources Board’s
Qualified Storm Water Pollution
Prevention Plan Developer (QSD)
Team member since 2018
Item Number: 16.
A-48
DINA EL CHAMMAS GASS
Senior Engineer
[email protected]
Environmental and Health Risk Assessments
• 4416 Azusa Canyon Road Tilt-up Warehouse Construction HRA | Irwindale CA • Etiwanda Avenue/Country Village Road Truck Restriction Ordinance Operational HRA | Jurupa Valley CA
• Temecula Valley Charter School HRA | Riverside County CA • Villa Park High School Modernization Pipeline Risk Assessment | Orange CA • Solana Vista Elementary School Reconstruction Pipeline Risk Assessment | Solana Beach CA
• Brownell Middle School Pipeline Risk Assessment | Gilroy CA CEQA
• Santa Ana General Plan EIR (2021) | Santa Ana CA
• San Bernardino Countywide Plan EIR | San Bernardino County CA • Walnut Business Park EIR | Walnut CA
• 1401 Quail Street Residential Project Addendum | Newport Beach CA • Landfill Gas to Energy Project IS/MND | Newport Beach CA • 4416 Azusa Canyon Road Tilt-up Warehouse Project IS/MND | Irwindale CA • Irwindale Gateway Specific Plan SEIR | Irwindale CA
• Wine Country Specific Plan SEIR | Yucaipa CA
• Freeway Corridor Specific Plan SEIR | Yucaipa CA
• Proposed Rule 2305, Warehouse Indirect Source Rule Environmental Assessment | South Coast Air Basin CA
• Agua Mansa Commerce Park Specific Plan EIR | Jurupa Valley CA • Norwalk Civic Center EIR | Norwalk CA
• Newport Crossings Mixed Use Project EIR | Newport Beach CA • Laguna Niguel Town Center Mixed Use Project EIR | Laguna Niguel CA • Ontario Ranch Specific Plan EIR | Ontario CA
• Etiwanda Avenue/Country Village Road Truck Restriction Ordinance EIR | Jurupa Valley CA
• UC Berkeley Long-Range Development Plan EIR | Berkeley CA • Whitmore Villa 66-Unit Residential Project IS/MND | Monterey Park CA • San Rafael General Plan 2040 and Downtown EIR | San Rafael CA
PRIOR EXPERIENCE
• Crowe Creek State Revolving Fund Project | Fairfield IA • Baku Tbilisi Cheyhan Pipeline | Republic of Georgia
• Crescent New Gas Processing Plant | United Arab Emirates • Mitigation of NGL Plants Flares and RAG Utilization Project | Qatar • Dorood Project Onshore Facilities | Iran
• Expansion and Development of the Harweel Miscible Gas Injection Enhanced Oil Recovery Project| Oman
• Kashagan Field Development Project | Kazakhstan
PUBLICATIONS
• “Immerse in Your Watershed: Problem Based, Service Learning for Undergraduate Sustainability Education,” The Journal of Sustainability Education, January 2017.
• “Potentiality of Wastewater Reclamation and Reuse in the Lebanon: A Case Study,” Master’s Thesis, American University of Beirut, Beirut, Lebanon, 2003.
AWARDS
• 2002 Abd El Aal Research Award for the Advancement of Water Resource Engineering Research
Item Number: 16.
A-49
ROBERT MAZUR
Associate Principal, Director of GIS
Rob has extensive experience creating maps and datasets for a range of planning projects. He specializes in all facets of geodatabase development, data management, web GIS, and spatial and tabular analyses for improved decision-making, information retrieval, and cartography. His experience in a wide variety of planning projects, coupled with his expertise in GIS and field data collection, make him a key asset to any team. Rob excels at quantitative and spatial analysis, including buildout calculations, walkability, community health modeling, cartography, and land use scenario modeling. He works directly with clients and staff to develop effective, efficient, and informative GIS processes.
Rob is well versed in advanced and current planning practices in both the public and private sector, and has an excellent understanding of the relationship between data management and its importance in achieving service delivery standards for the work of community development and public works departments. Rob has brought his GIS skills to a number of general plan updates throughout California, and has managed a variety of mapping projects in Los Angeles County, the Bay Area, and beyond.
HIGHLIGHTS OF EXPERIENCE
• SB 2 Grant Application Assistance | Statewide CA
• Los Angeles County SD5 Trails | Los Angeles CA
• Los Angeles County Sustainable Parks Master Plan | Los Angeles CA • Los Angeles Comprehensive Countywide Park Needs Assessment | Los Angeles CA
• Santa Ana River Parkway and Open Space Plan | Santa Ana CA • Vallejo Integrated Revitalization Program and Comprehensive General Plan Update | Vallejo CA
• First 5 CA, Montclair WeCare | Montclair CA
• San Carlos GIS | San Carlos CA
• San Mateo General Plan Update | San Mateo CA
• Contra Costa Transportation Authority On-Call Planning | Contra Costa County CA • Contra Costa County General Plan Update | Contra Costa County CA • Hollister General Plan Update | Hollister CA
• Elk Grove Disaster Preparedness Project | Elk Grove CA • Morgan Hill 2035 General Plan | Morgan Hill CA
• Menlo Park Housing Element EA | Menlo Park CA
• Upland General Plan Update and EIR | Upland CA
• Downtown Livermore Facilitation Services | Livermore CA • Vacaville General Plan Update, Climate Action Plan, and EIR | Vacaville CA • Stockton General Plan Update | Stockton CA
• Palo Alto Comprehensive Plan Update | Palo Alto CA
• Butte County General Plan Update and EIR | Butte County CA • Healthy High Desert | San Bernardino CA
EDUCATION
• BA, Geography, Edinboro University,
Edinboro, PA
CERTIFICATIONS
• GIS Professional
AFFILIATIONS
• Bay Area Automated Mapping
Association
Team member since 2011
Item Number: 16.
A-50
ROBERT MAZUR
GIS Director
[email protected]
• Santa Cruz TOD | Santa Cruz CA
• Tulare TOD Plan & General Plan Amendment | Tulare CA
• Walnut Creek BART Transit Village Plan EIR | Walnut Creek CA
PRIOR EXPERIENCE
• FEMA Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map Production | FEMA Region IX • Sidewalk Inventory Project | Oakland CA
• Sidewalk Inventory Project Seminar | Oakland CA
• Worldwide Defense Mapping for the National Imagery Mapping Association • Curb Ramp Inventory | Oakland CA
• True Green Land Care | San Jose CA
SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS
• “Los Angeles County Trails Assessment”, 2015 Greater and Greener Conference, San Francisco CA
• “Oakland Citywide Sidewalk Condition/ADA Inventory”, 2006 ESRI International User Conference, San Diego CA
Item Number: 16.
Item Number: 16.
A-52
PEOPLE
PROCESS
PRODUCT
Stakeholder
Interviews
Charrettes & Workshops
Mobile Outreach
Developer Roundtables
Research & Analyze Collaborate
Vision
Original Data Files
PLACEWORKS TEAM PROCESS
Envision
PEOPLE
The PlaceWorks Team believes in collaboration and community engagement every step of the way—from the assessment of current conditions and needs, to exploration of opportunities for the future, to confirmation of preferred visions, development plans, and implementation strategies and codes.
The PlaceWorks Team works through multiple methods to include as many people as possible.
Item Number: 16.
Open Houses &
Public Hearings
Websites, Social Media Local Stakeholders
Document Review & Strategize Present
Environmental
Clearance Document
The Plan
• Plans
• Maps/Diagrams
• Graphics/Illustrations
• Tables/Charts
• Performance
Evaluations
PROCESS
The PlaceWorks Team is effective at completing projects on time and under budget.
We establish clear procedures and protocols to ensure
that the work and the program address objectives and
expected outcomes and coordinates with concurrent
client initiatives.
PRODUCT
The PlaceWorks Team is dedicated to providing clients
with reliable and effective products. This means that
for deliverable work products we will provide the Client with electronic files for publications.
Item Number: 16.
PlaceWorks – Los Angeles
700 S. Flower Street, Suite 600, Los Angeles CA 90017
213.623.1443
Additional Offices
Orange County | Inland Empire | Central Coast | Bay Area | Sacramento placeworks.com
Courtesy: Shawn CC BY-SA 2.0
Item Number: 16.
PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE
ON-CALL ENVIRONMENTAL
& PLANNING SERVICES
Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and
Environmental Services
Prepared for
City of Desert Hot Springs
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, California 92240
Prepared by
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.®
42635 Melanie Place, Suite 101
Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 341-4800
May 2024
Item Number: 16.
TERRA NOVA PLANNING & RESEARCH, INC.
42635 MELANIE PLACE, SUITE 101, PALM DESERT, CA 92211 (760) 341-4800 May 29, 2024
Mr. Travis Clark
Community Development Director
City of Desert Hot Springs
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
RE: On-Call Planning & Environmental Services, Category 3 Dear Mr. Clark:
Terra Nova is pleased to submit our qualifications in response to the City’s Request for Qualifications for On-Call Environmental and Planning Services. This proposal packet addresses Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services. Qualifications for Categories 1 and 2 are provided separately.
The Terra Nova team will be led by Nicole Sauviat Criste, who is also the primary point of contact for this proposal. Ms. Criste is a Principal with the firm, and has 39 years of experience in current planning, including both planning and environmental documentation. Most recently Terra Nova has assisted Desert Hot Springs in its Housing Element Update, updating the City’s General Plan map, preparing the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration for City Hall, and other projects. Ms. Criste’s qualifications are provided in greater detail below.
Terra Nova has been providing municipalities in southern California with planning and environmental review services since 1984. Throughout its existence, Terra Nova has provided services to the public sector. Currently, in addition to Desert Hot Springs, we provide planning and environmental services to the cities of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Coachella and La Quinta. Detailed qualifications are provided in this proposal.
The focus of our firm is on providing turn key professional services. We work as an extension of City staff, and always endeavor to provide support and assistance that is not disruptive to our clients’ workloads.
We have reviewed the City’s standard consultant contract. If selected, we can abide by the terms and conditions contained in that document. I look forward to having the opportunity to discuss our proposal with you further. If you have any questions, or require additional information, you can contact me at 760-341-4800, or by email at [email protected].
Sincerely,
Nicole Sauviat Criste
Principal
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 3 A. Organizational Chart
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc. was founded in 1984, and has maintained its primary offices in the Coachella Valley over the past 40 years. Terra Nova is a full service land use and environmental planning firm with a highly professional team of experienced urban and environmental planners and technical support staff. The City’s primary contact will be Nicole Sauviat Criste. Depending on the assignment, various Terra Nova staff would assist the City in addition to Ms. Criste. Resumes for staff members are provided in Section B.
Terra Nova provides planning and environmental services to all the cities in the Coachella. We currently are on the City of Palm Springs’ and Indian Wells’ on-call environmental consultant list, and provide planning and environmental contract services to the cities of Cathedral City, La Quinta and Coachella.
Nicole Sauviat Criste
Principal & Project Manager
Nathaly CastilloOrozco Research &
Documentation
Candice Weber
Research &
Documentation
Bitian Chen
Research &
Documentation
John D. Criste
Project-Specific
Manager
Kelly Clark
Project-Specific
Manager
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 4 B. Project Team
This section provides resumes for Terra Nova staff. Section C provides information on our consultant team.
NICOLE SAUVIAT CRISTE
Principal and Project Manager
Ms. Criste has been with Terra Nova since 1985 and will serve as the Project Manager for projects in the City. She has extensive experience in the preparation of CEQA documents, including a number in Desert Hot Springs, such as the PS Containers and Dillon Road RV Storage Initial Studies, and multiple Initial Studies for cannabis projects in the industrial area east of Little Morongo Road. Major EIR projects include the Lafayette Warehouse Project EIR and Cordova Warehouse Project EIR Addendum in the Town of Apple Valley, DSRT Surf Specific Plan and EIR in Palm Desert, Downtown Palm Springs Specific Plan, EIR and Addenda in Palm Springs, and the Apple Valley Village Specific Plan and EIR.
She has conducted and managed the preparation of several community General Plans, including those for the cities of La Quinta (2002 and 2012), Apple Valley and Banning.
She has also assisted Desert Hot Springs in updating its Housing Element for the 2021- 2029 planning period, and provided peer review for the Green Day Village Specific Plan.
Among her public sector clients, Ms. Criste has provided land use and environmental planning services to a number of cities in addition to Desert Hot Springs, including Palm Springs, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Cathedral City, Twentynine Palms, Coachella and Rancho Mirage.
In addition to extensive land use and community planning experience, Ms. Criste also provides expert services in environmental, land use and development design analysis, fiscal and economic impact analysis, market research and marketing strategy development.
Ms. Criste has also taught CEQA classes for City staffs, and prior to the demise of redevelopment agencies, for the California Redevelopment Association’s certification program for redevelopment professionals. Ms. Criste also works with a number of attorneys as a CEQA expert, providing technical analysis in support of court actions in southern California and Sacramento.
Ms. Criste is a graduate of Scripps College with a Bachelor of Arts degree in European Studies.
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 5 JOHN D. CRISTE
Principal Planner
Mr. Criste has more than 40 years experience in land use, urban and regional planning, environmental assessment and impact analysis, land use feasibility analysis, and energy development management and regulation. He has worked in the Southern California region since 1979.
He has extensive experience in public policy planning regarding land use and environmental issues on local, state and federal levels. His experience covers all aspects of CEQA and NEPA. He has been a CEQA instructor for the Association of Environmental Professionals and the American Planning Association.
Mr. Criste was Principal in Charge for the Highway 111 Corridor Specific Plan and EIR in Rancho Mirage, College Park Specific Plan EIR in Palm Springs, and the Thermal Ranch EIR in Riverside County. He provides on-going planning services to Eisenhower Medical Center, COD and other institutional clients. His experience includes management of the CV Link EIR for CVAG, Ritz-Carlton Hotel and Mirada Resort EIRs in Rancho Mirage, the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan EIR/EIS and the Stone Eagle EIR. He is currently the Project Manager for the City’s Hacienda Street Improvement Project, and managed the update of the Camino Aventura Specific Plan and associated Initial Study for GHA Companies.
Mr. Criste graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in Architectural History from Pennsylvania State University.
KELLY CLARK
Senior Planner
Ms. Clark joined Terra Nova in 2011. She is a graduate of the University of California, Berkeley, graduating with a Bachelor of Science degree in Conservation and Resource Studies. Ms. Clark’s coursework emphasized sustainable urban development, environmental policy and community design.
Since joining Terra Nova, Ms. Clark has provided research and analysis required for CEQA and NEPA documents, local green building policies and various development projects throughout the Coachella Valley, including the Specific Plans for the DSRT Surf and Apple Valley Village Specific Plans, Initial Studies for retail projects in Desert Hot Springs, San Bernardino and Twenty-nine Palms. She also contributed to the preparation of the College of the Desert Indio Educational Center EIR.
She has developed an excellent understanding of air quality and greenhouse gas modeling, and prepares air quality models, including most of the air quality analyses for the Initial Studies described above.
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 6 Ms. Clark was a part of the planning team for the Rancho Mirage Highway 111 Specific Plan, and the Rancho Cucamonga Foothill Boulevard BRT corridor study, a Compass Blueprint Demonstration Project of the Southern California Association of Governments.
She has been involved in land use and socio-economic research, public outreach and participation, and collection of data and information regarding the Foothill corridor.
NATHALY CASTILLO-OROZCO
Assistant Planner
Ms. Castillo-Orozco joined Terra Nova in 2023, after completing her Bachelor’s degree in Environmental Science at the University of California, Santa Barbara.
Since joining Terra Nova, Ms. Castillo-Orozco has researched and documented multiple Initial Studies for various projects in the Coachella Valley, and is participating in the drafting of an EIR for a commercial solar project in the City of Twentynine Palms.
Prior to joining Terra Nova, Ms. Castillo-Orozco worked with UCSB’s University Green Building in analyzing energy consumption and developing a plan for energy reductions, while considering economic, social and environmental benefits. She also researched and advocated for changes in federal energy policy to improve reliability.
CANDICE WEBER
Assistant Planner
Ms. Weber joined Terra Nova in 2021. She initially joined the firm as its GIS specialist, and continues these duties currently, but has expanded her responsibilities to include planning and environmental documents.
Ms. Weber has researched and documented Initial Studies for an industrial project’s expansion in the City of Hesperia, and a 5 mile bike trail connector to the CV Link in the City of Coachella. She was also instrumental in the preparation of the Social Justice Element for the City of Twentynine Palms, and is currently working on market and demographic analysis for a neighborhood revitalization Specific Plan in Palm Springs.
Ms. Weber has been an adjunct professor in the College of the Desert’s Applied Science and Business department, teaching Geographic Information Systems and Conservation of Natural Resources courses.
C. Consultant Team
Terra Nova prepares technical reports for air quality, greenhouse gas emissions and water demand/supply, including Water Supply Assessments. For biological resources, Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 7 cultural resources, noise and traffic, Terra Nova relies on a team of long-standing consulting firms with whom we have developed relationships over decades.
Biological Resources
WSP USA Environment & Infrastructure Inc.
1845 Chicago Avenue, Suite D
Riverside, CA 92507
Contact: Scott Crawford, Vice President Biology
Telephone: 951-369-8060
Email: [email protected]
Cultural Resources
CRM Tech
1016 East Cooley Drive, Suite A/B
Colton, CA 92324
Contact: Michael Hogan or Bai “Tom” Tang, Principals
Telephone: 909-824-6400
Email: [email protected] or [email protected]
Noise Impact Analysis
Urban Crossroads
20341 SW Birch Street, Suite 230
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Contact: Bill Lawson, Principal
Telephone: 949-660-1994
Email: [email protected]
Traffic Impact Analysis
Urban Crossroads
20341 SW Birch Street, Suite 230
Newport Beach, CA 92660
Contact: John Kain, Principal
Telephone: 949-660-1994
Email: [email protected]
D. Relevant Experience
Terra Nova’s experience is wide-ranging and includes the preparation of Specific Plans and Master Plans, General Plans, Zoning Ordinances, and Corridor Plans. Terra Nova’s municipal client base is of long standing – we have provided planning and environmental services to Desert Hot Springs for 30 years, and have been integral partners and extensions of staff to other cities for similar time periods.
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 8 The key to Terra Nova's effectiveness lies in its size. The firm is large enough to provide innovative land planning and design, analysis and work products, yet small enough to provide focused personal attention of the firm’s principals and senior staff. Our combination of urban and environmental planners assures the development of creative and effective urban planning and design solutions, and practical real-world implementation. Terra Nova planning documents reflect community and environmental sensitivity, and the holistic and systematic integration of land uses and the built and natural environments.
We emphasize communicating with stakeholders in language that the general public can understand. Terra Nova works hard to present issues and concepts in a clear and simple format. In this manner, residents, business owners and City officials can better visualize the planning area and understand the context in which planning is occurring.
This is also the only way to achieve consensus when many different views and opinions are involved. The liberal use of graphics throughout our General Plans, Specific Plans and other documents, including diagrams, illustrations, photographs and user-friendly GIS mapping, also help to make the material more accessible.
For each project assigned, Terra Nova will establish a close and coordinated project management plan with the City, and will help facilitate completion of all project tasks.
Terra Nova takes its responsibility as prime contractor very seriously, working with City and consultant team members to efficiently gather data and information, explore design and development concepts, coordinate design development and analysis, prepare plans and design materials, and manage the review and delivery of draft materials and special studies.
Our turnkey approach to services assures the City that not only document research and drafting are thorough and comprehensive, but that all administrative tasks, required notices and public presentations are carried out in a cohesive manner.
We regularly prepare staff reports, resolutions and ordinances for our projects and make presentations before Planning Commissions and City Councils throughout the Valley and High Desert. Most recently, we completed the processing of a Specific Plan Amendment, General Plan and Zoning Map Amendments and Tentative Tract Map for a 400 acre golf course community in La Quinta. In that case, we served as City staff, and prepared all of the documents that were presented to the Planning Commission and City Council, made the presentations at hearings, and answered community member questions throughout the process, while coordinating with the applicant to assure the timely completion of document changes and their CEQA documents, which we peer reviewed.
Over the years, we have undertaken a number of General Plans, including those for the cities of Cathedral City (2000 and 2023), La Quinta (2002 and 2012), Banning and the Town of Apple Valley. Concurrent with the General Plans for these cities, we also updated their Zoning Ordinances.
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 9 Terra Nova also prepared Housing Elements for the 6th (2021-2029) Cycle for 8 cities:
Desert Hot Springs, Twentynine Palms, Cathedral City, Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, La Quinta, Los Alamitos and the Town of Apple Valley. All of the Elements were certified by HCD. Terra Nova was responsible for staff reports, resolutions, Planning Commission and City Council presentations for most of the Elements.
In Desert Hot Springs, we have assisted the City in completing and certifying its current Housing Element, and are currently working with staff to implement Housing Element programs. We also provided the City with updated GIS support for changes to the General Plan and Zoning maps, based on recent corrections. Finally, we assisted the City in updating its Zoning Ordinance as it related to Housing Element consistency, including sections on Accessory Dwelling Units, Density Bonuses and other residential standards and guidelines.
The following summaries reflect our most recent work in terms of planning documents completed specifically for public sector clients.
College Park Specific Plan Update
In 2011, Terra Nova prepared the College Park Specific Plan (CPSP) and EIR for the City of Palm Springs, encompassing 510± acres, which included a new 118± acre West Valley Campus of College of the Desert. The City’s goal was to use the COD campus development as a catalyst for the redevelopment of mixed, and in some areas disadvantaged residential neighborhoods, and revitalization of the oldest industrial area in the City. The plan area includes a mix of residential, industrial, commercial and institutional land uses. Following its completion and approval, the College moved its West Valley Campus to another site in the City, which thwarted redevelopment potential in the neighborhood. In 2023, the City approached Terra Nova about updating the Specific Plan, which now needs to refocus on neighborhood issues and needs without the College campus as a focus. This effort, now getting under way, will focus on the existing community, which is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the City, and which has traditionally been underserved and disadvantaged. Determining the redistribution of land use, particularly of the 118 acres previously dedicated to the College, and integrating neighborhood needs for enhanced shopping and employment opportunities will be a focus of the updated plan.
Client: City of Palm Springs
Year Completed: Currently under way. Hearings expected in 2025 Entitlement Outcome: To Be Determined
City of Rancho Mirage Highway 111 Corridor Specific Plan and EIR Terra Nova was retained by the City of Rancho Mirage to develop a comprehensive, 680-acre Highway 111 Specific Plan along the entire 4.5± mile length of its passage through the City. In addition to combining two separate plan areas on the corridor that date back to 1990, the new Specific Plan proposes a wide range of residential, commercial, institutional and mixed uses meant to activate commerce and social activity along the corridor, as well as promote the addition of housing within mixed-use projects.
In addition to a few large holdings of vacant land, much of the planning area is partially Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 10 developed and some important opportunities for redevelopment are a part of the Specific Plan. A comprehensive demographic and market demand analysis was completed, to consider the market area and potential for various land use types.
Destination and entertainment commercial (retailtainment) are major considerations in the plan, which provides subarea-specific land uses, including higher density residential, and a full range of site planning, architectural, landscape and other design standards and guidelines. Comprehensive transportation and mobility plans were also developed to enhance multi-modal access to the corridor, encourage park-and-walk shopping, and reduce vehicle miles traveled. An Initial Study/NOP and comprehensive EIR are also a part of this project.
Client: City of Rancho Mirage
Year Completed: Under way.
Entitlement Outcome: To Be Determined
Apple Valley Village Specific Plan and EIR
The Village area of Apple Valley is its historic “downtown,” which has suffered over the years by the speed and configuration of State Route 18, which bisects the corridor. The Town and local Public Benefit Improvement District worked together to advance a Specific Plan that would spur development and redevelopment of the area, including major changes to the Highway to make it more accessible for local businesses. The planning area included lands behind the Highway that included light industrial uses and pockets of residential development. The Plan provided detailed standards and guidelines to foster mixed use development on larger vacant sites, and allow flexibility for smaller parcels, particularly older businesses that are expected to transition to more modern uses in the future. The Specific Plan was developed during COVID shutdowns, but an extensive outreach program via Zoom was undertaken with plan area land owners, residents and business owners to generate as much public input as possible.
Client: Town of Apple Valley
Year Completed: Under way. 2022
Entitlement Outcome: Specific Plan Approved and now being implemented Cathedral City General Plan Update 2023
Terra Nova updated its year 2000 General Plan to reflect changed conditions in the City, and a shift to encouraging mixed use projects and non-motorized travel in the City.
This update included a comprehensive review of the Land Use Element and Map, as well as the creation of an Alternative Transportation Plan, and an update of the Zoning Ordinance and Map for consistency with the General Plan and updated Housing Element. The update looked at City neighborhoods and how to include them into the process so that the General Plan would better reflect the community and its needs for the future, with a 2040 build out vision. Economic development and attracting a more varied and diverse mix of businesses to expand the City’s job base was also a focus of the General Plan.
Client: City of Cathedral City
Year Completed: 2023
Entitlement Outcome: General Plan adopted and EIR certified in 2023 Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 11 E. References
These references directly relate to the projects described above.
City of Palm Springs
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way
Palm Springs, CA 92262
760-323-8245
Mr. Edward Robertson, Principal Planner;
Email: [email protected]
City of Cathedral City
68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234
760-202-2433
Mr. Charlie McClendon, City Manager;
Email: [email protected]
(Please note that our primary contact at the City for the General Plan was Robert Rodriguez, who has since retired. Mr. McClendon was involved in our work as well and is still with the City)
Town of Apple Valley
14955 Dale Evans Parkway
Apple Valley, CA 92307
760-240-7000
Mr. Orlando Acevedo, Assistant Town Manager;
Email: [email protected]
City of Rancho Mirage
69825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
760-328-2266
Ms. Majna Dukic, Director of Community Development;
Email: [email protected]
In addition, references are available for the Housing Elements we prepared for cities in addition to Desert Hot Springs if needed.
Item Number: 16.
Terra Nova Planning & Research, Inc.
City of Desert Hot Springs On-Call Environmental & Planning Services Category 3: City-Sponsored Planning and Environmental Services 12 F. Fee Schedule
Terra Nova invoices its clients on a cost-basis using an hourly billing system. The scope of each planning effort is typically broken down by task and assigned necessary staff time at the applicable hourly rate.
Terra Nova Staff Hourly Rate
Principal Planner $ 195.00
Senior Planner $ 160.00
Associate Planner $ 140.00
Assistant Planner $ 115.00
Graphic Design Specialist $ 65.00
Administrative Assistant $ 45.00
Reimbursables
Photo Copies
(8.5” X 11” BW) $ 0.15 ea.
(8.5” X 11” Color) $ 0.30 ea.
(11” X 17” BW) $ 0.30 ea.
(11” X 17” Color) $ 0.60 ea.
Large Format Plots
BW $ 1.00/S.F.
Color $ 5.00/S.F.
Telephone Toll Charges Cost
Reproduction, Special photographic services,
document printing, aerial photogrammetry, postage, etc. Cost Item Number: 16.
PLANNING | ENGINEERING | SURVEY | ENVIRONMENTAL | URBAN DESIGN Request for Qualifications
City of Desert Hot Springs
Category 3 - Planning and
Environmental Services
May 28, 2024
Prepared for:
City of Desert Hot Springs
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
Prepared by:
The Altum Group
44-600 Village Court, Suite 100
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Item Number: 16.
44-600 Village Court
Suite 100
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-4750
www.thealtumgroup.com
May 30, 2024
Travis Clark
Community Development Director
City of Desert Hot Springs
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
Subject: Statement of Qualifications for Category 3 – Planning and Environmental Services Dear Mr. Clark,
The Altum Group (Altum) is pleased to submit our qualifications to the City of Desert Hot Springs (City) to provide on-call planning and environmental services. Altum is pleased to provide firm qualifications for all (4) categories described in the City issued RFQ, this SOQ is for Category 3, Planning and Environmental Services.
At The Altum Group, we pride ourselves on delivering innovative, sustainable, and community-focused solutions that enhance the built environment and contribute to the overall well-being of the community.
The Altum Group has a proven track record of excellence in urban planning and design. Our team comprises highly skilled professionals with extensive experience in crafting comprehensive site plans, urban designs, and specific plans that align with municipal goals and community needs. We have successfully completed numerous projects that integrate functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, ensuring long-term viability and community satisfaction. Our approach to site planning and urban design is holistic and inclusive, emphasizing collaboration with stakeholders, thorough analysis of site conditions, and creative problem-solving. We specialize in developing tailored solutions that respect the unique character and vision of each community, while addressing critical factors such as environmental impact, transportation, infrastructure, and public spaces.
Altum will lead the consultant team, offering expertise in Urban Design, Master Planning, and Planning Services. Altum will collaborate with Domusstudio Architecture and Hermann Design Group Landscape Architecture to prepare planning and design documents.
We are excited to support the City of Desert Hot Springs for this contract. If you have any questions about our technical capabilities, experience, or staff, please do not hesitate to contact us at (760) 346-4750 or [email protected].
Sincerely,
Stephen Nieto
Director Urban Planning + Land Development
Item Number: 16.
Planning and Environmental Services
City of Desert Hot Springs
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.1 Prime Consultant ......................................................................................................... 1
1.2 Approach to Planning Documentation Experience ..................................................... 2
1.3 Planning Document Preperation Experience .............................................................. 4
1.4 Subconsultants ............................................................................................................. 8
1.5 Proposed Team ........................................................................................................... 9
1.6 References ................................................................................................................. 13
1.7 Organizational Chart .................................................................................................. 14 Appendix
Subconsultant Qualifications
Resumes
Hourly Rates
Item Number: 16.
City of Desert Hot Springs
Category 3 - SOQ
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Item Number: 16.
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Category 3 - SOQ
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CATEGORY 3 – PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL
SERVICES
1.1 PRIME CONSULTANT
The Altum Group is a multi-discipline consulting firm
offering expertise in environmental planning,
urban/municipal planning, geographical information
systems (GIS), civil engineering, surveying, and
project management. The Altum Group began with a core group of experienced professionals each with decades of experience in providing consulting services to public and private clients. The firm now employs over 30 professionals and supporting staff with diverse levels of expertise that allows us the ability to provide a wide array of services.
Altum staff includes California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and
National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)
project managers, urban planners,
scientists, GIS specialists, engineers, and
surveyors. We have developed refined skills
providing public and private clients with
consulting services including services for
infrastructure and private development
(including residential, commercial, and
industrial,), institutional design, energy
projects, parks and recreational planning,
subdivision design and infrastructure
management. We handle multiple contracts
and task orders simultaneously, with a reputation for providing high-quality work products on time and within budget.
The City of Desert Hot Springs is seeking planning and environmental consultants to assist the Planning Department with various functions in support of future development projects. This includes both contract planning/staff augmentation and development of CEQA/NEPA documents.
Altum is pleased to provide firm qualifications for (4) categories described in the City issued RFQ.
This SOQ is for Category 3 – Planning and Environmental Services Why Altum?
The answer is rooted in our values, experience, and willingness to go the extra mile to make sure your project receives the best possible service and attention. The Altum Team is dedicated to the City of Desert Hot Springs and we have the experience to perform the tasks necessary to assure a successful project. The Altum Team has adequate professional staff who will be assigned to Item Number: 16.
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Category 3 - SOQ
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each project based on the project needs and said staff will be dedicated to the project through completion. The Altum Team has an excellent reputation for success and professionalism as can be attested by our references offered in this proposal. The Altum Team believes in providing outstanding service to the best clients on the best projects. We begin with the end goal in mind. Team of Experts
Local Knowledge
300+ Projects
Served
700 years of
Combined
Experience
Solid Reputation
Focus on Client
Success
Creative Solutions
Collaborative
Approaches
High Quality
Deliverables
Outstanding
Services
Timely Project
Completion
1.2 APPROACH TO PLANNING & DESIGN SERVICES
Altum has vast experience in the preparation of masterplans, specific plans, and tract maps, and is familiar with routine presentations to Planning Commissions, City Councils, or Board of Supervisors. Altum’s team of Planners work closely with City staff, stakeholders, and communities to prepare creative and dynamic master plans, area plans, and specific plans. Altum goes beyond traditional parameters and strives to develop forward thinking and holistic design solutions.
Through a streamlined process of engagement with clients, stakeholders, and communities, we approach each project based on an understanding of policy, culture, community character, economic impact, ecological strategies, and infrastructural systems in a comprehensive view.
Bridging the gap between planning and architecture, we work in the private and public sector to create a sense of “place” and envision unique user experiences through our planning documents.
Our team of diverse planners adds value to development teams through the creation of design solutions that are purposeful, dynamic, cost effective, and implementable. With the goal of economic vitality, we provide visioning, concept development, illustrative master plans, site design, feasibility studies and design guidelines.
Altum will serve as the prime firm for our Team, Altum has assembled a highly skilled team of Urban Designers, Planners, Landscape Architects, and Architects, all of whom we have effectively collaborated with in the past. If selected, Altum will act as the team leader and main client contact throughout the Project. The City’s project manager will have direct contact with Stephen Nieto, Director of Urban Design and Land Development, who will be tasked with managing and directing all client questions and responses to maintain clarity during the life of the Project. With more than 14 years of professional experience working on both domestic and foreign Urban Design and Master Planning projects, Mr. Nieto will oversee the team’s design direction, objectives, and process for the Project. Richard Malacoff, AICP is a Principal Planner at Altum with vast experience working with cities, preparing design guidelines and master plan and specific plan documents.
Item Number: 16.
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In addition, our team is supported with the expertise of Landscape Architect, Hermann Design Group who will be assisting in open space design and public realm opportunities. Furthermore, Domusstudio will provide architectural design, architectural rendering, and graphic support for planning documents.
Engineering Services
Our technical knowledge and professional
experience run the gamut of civil
engineering services and we are confident
in the work products we would prepare for
the City on planning document projects.
Altum's Civil Engineers have provided
services ranging from due diligence and
feasibility studies, preliminary and final
street design, wet utilities design, plan
reviews and approvals, as well as full
development of improvement plans for
City/County-sponsored projects. Staff also
has the experience to provide project
management and construction support for a multitude of projects.
Our engineering staff have managed and designed a variety of public works and infrastructure projects involving roadways, highways, pipelines, and utilities. Our experience includes coordination, preparation of plans, technical studies/reports, specifications, estimates for feasibility and final design; site design; grading; streets; water, sewer and irrigation; dry utilities; hydrology, hydraulics and storm drain; and erosion control and water quality. Our expertise ranges from preliminary planning and budgeting to preparation of plans, specifications, and estimates (PSE’s) for projects of all sizes.
Surveying Services
Altum’s survey department performs a full array of Survey and Mapping efforts, from legal description interpretation, boundary retracement and establishment to development and design services, including photogrammetry control topography, construction staking, layouts, as-builts, and monitoring. Our Survey Manager and licensed surveyors (PLS) oversee the field and office personnel in the process of field information and data collection, data processing, datum analysis, and adjustments. This includes coordinating the surveying and mapping with the Altum Planning and Engineering staff to promote efficiency in the work effort as well as supervising the preparation of Tract and Parcel Maps, Records of Survey, ALTA/ACSM Land Title Surveys, Lot Line Adjustments, Parcel Mergers, Legal Descriptions, Plats, Topographic Surveys, and a variety of custom exhibits and constraint maps to meet the design, development, and legal needs of the client. We also have experienced utility locators on staff who lead the utility marking and outreach efforts needed on large projects.
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1.3 PLANNING DOCUMENT PREPARATION EXPERIENCE
Church at the Red Door Specific Plan and CEQA Documentation Indio, CA Team Members: The Altum Group, Hermann Design Group, Domusstudio Key Points: Specific Plan Preparation; IS/MND Preparation - Approved The Altum Group was
hired by the Church at the
Red Door to develop a
Specific Plan and prepare
the required CEQA
Documentation for a
proposed Place of
Worship, accessory
buildings, and on-site
parking on a vacant parcel
in the City of Indio. The
project is located on 13
acres on the southeast
corner of Jefferson Street
and Avenue 49 in a
predominantly residential
area. The area had one structure on-site, a historic residence dating back more than 50 years.
Altum staff prepared the Specific Plan, Design Review Guidelines, and Tentative Parcel Map for the project. Specific services included preparation of a Specific Plan, Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), Tentative Tract Map, on-site drainage, water quality management plan, and street improvements. Hermann Design Group was retained to prepare the Landscape Design for the project.
The Specific Plan was designed to ensure that the project is complementary to the neighborhood and becomes a positive contribution to the City of Indio. Using Desert Architecture, the development of the project includes the required number of onsite parking stalls and desert landscaping per the City of Indio Municipal Code. The contemporary design of the worship center emphasizes architectural openness that will provide an abundance of natural lighting promoting a welcoming atmosphere. The project includes a contemporary worship center with approximately 1,138 seats, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor areas including multi-purpose rooms, playgrounds, a sanctuary, adjacent multi-use rooms, a kitchen, various offices, meeting rooms, and other Church affiliated uses. An outdoor amphitheater will be used to engage in a variety of community activities and other religious activities. The existing single-family residence was built Item Number: 16.
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into the design and would remain in place for future residential uses or as a supplemental building for the Place of Worship.
The comprehensive Specific Plan was developed to be clear and easy-to-follow for future users and City staff. Individual sections of the Specific Plan include:
Goals and Objectives
General Plan Consistency
Sign Program
Zoning Code
Development Standards
Landscape Plan
Lighting Plan
Historic Management Plan
Circulation Plan
Implementation Plan
Following preparation of the Specific Plan, Altum staff prepared a CEQA IS/MND examining mandated areas of analysis including: Air Quality, Greenhouse Gases, Climate Change, Noise, Traffic, Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology/ Hazards, Aesthetics, and impacts on potential Historical Resources. Specific analysis was used to review the on-site structure and how to incorporate it into the project without spoiling the historic properties. Throughout the project, The Altum Group worked closely with City Staff and the Church at the Red Door to ensure that all issues were addressed and that the documents were acceptable to both parties.
The Classic Club Master Plan and Northstar Specific Plan Amendment, Riverside County, CA
Team Members: The Altum Group
Key Points: Specific Plan Preparation, Change of Zone Application - Approved The Altum Group is the lead planning team for the
Classic Club Master and the Northstar Specific Plan, a
500+ acre mixeduse long range plan that surrounds an
existing award winning 18-hole Classic Club Golf
Course. The master plan includes a variety of uses
from recreational open space, multi-family,
commercial, industrial, hospitality, sport, and
entertainment uses. The Altum Group’s Urban Design
and Planning team recently lead a specific plan
amendment to allow for a 295,000 SF Arena & Event
Center as well as hospitality and multi-family uses. Planned development throughout the master plan in addition to the newly proposed arena are designed to be connected with a network of pedestrian and bike paths to promote walkability and non-vehicular transportation. At full build the Classic Club will become a beacon for leisure, hospitality, sport, and entertainment in the Coachella Valley.
Item Number: 16.
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Glamis Specific Plan Imperial County, CA
Team Members: The Altum Group; Hermann Design Group
Key Points: Specific Plan Preparation – Approved
The Altum Group prepared a Specific Plan for an area known as “Glamis” located in a remote, unincorporated area in the central portion of Imperial County. The project site consists of approximately 141 acres and is located east of the City of Brawley at the intersection of State Route 78 and the Union Pacific Railroad. The Glamis Specific Plan area is located directly adjacent and partially within the Bureau of Land Management’s (BLM) Imperial Sand Dunes Recreation Area Management Plan. While the actual parcels of the project site are privately
owned and under County of Imperial
jurisdiction, close coordination with the BLM
was maintained throughout preparation of
the Specific Plan. The Glamis area is known
as a gathering location for the Off-Highway
Vehicle (OHV) community, with miles of sand
dunes and trails utilized by All-Terrain
Vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes, and other
extreme vehicles. With existing camping and
RV parking areas, the site hosts annual
festivals for the OHV crowd that include
concerts, races, and vendor fairs.
The Glamis Specific Plan will provide a flexible recreational master plan with a broad range of land uses ranging from recreational, commercial/retail, storage, and entertainment to hospitality, residential, and renewable energy, among others. The Plan attempts to build off the historical Glamis-going experience by providing expanded recreational, commercial, entertainment, and hospitality experiences, yet still complying with County Planning goals by addressing environmental, engineering, commercial, public safety, and aesthetic needs identified during the planning process.
To kick off the project, Altum conducted due diligence services including technical studies such as CEQA Traffic Impact Study, Geotechnical Feasibility Report, Cultural Resources Assessment, Air Quality, GHG Assessment, Noise Assessment, General Habitat Assessment Report, and a Visual Impact Assessment.
Through this preliminary due diligence, constraints were identified relating to the North Algodones Wilderness Area, FEMA Flood Zone areas, as well as an existing graveyard which is located within the project site. The sensitivity and restrictions pertaining to these areas affect the types of allowable land uses and prompts coordination with the County and BLM. GIS mapping was utilized to formulate a number of maps depicting varying site configurations that addressed intent, operational efficiency, compatibility, safety, and sustainability while acknowledging the project site’s existing conditions.
Key issues and challenges that faced the project include:
Preparing a Specific Plan that meets the Planning requirements of the County of Imperial, while allowing the client/property owner long-term land use flexibility for the 50-year build out of the project site.
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Constructing the land use areas to allow for flexible configuration of land use opportunities that would provide appropriate responses to market demand, the needs of the Glamis community’s recreational visitors and the
goals of the Client
Designing the area for all ages.
Keeping the unique locally
established Glamis community
that has served and will
continue to serve as the
premiere locale for OHV riders
and recreational visitors.
Ensuring that development and
implementation of the GSP is
coordinated with the planned
and scheduled infrastructure
needed to support the projects
site’s growth.
Encanto Single Family Development, Coachella, CA
Team Members: The Altum Group, Hermann Design Group, Domusstudio Key Points: Preparation of Planned Unit Development, Design Guidelines, Civil Engineering, Tentative Tract Map, and IS/MND - Approved
The Altum Group is proud to
present the Encanto Project, a
meticulously planned unit
development (PUD) in the City of
Coachella, featuring 20 acre 111
residential units designed for
market rate single family
housing. Our team has prepared
comprehensive design
guidelines, engineering plans,
and conducted detailed surveys
to ensure the development
embodies innovation,
sustainability, and community integration. Encanto emphasizes cohesive architectural styles, sustainable landscaping, and water/sewer infrastructure, meeting all regulatory standards and accommodating future growth in the City of Coachella. The layout includes green spaces, pedestrian-friendly pathways, and communal areas that foster social interaction and active lifestyles, enhancing the quality of life for residents. Sustainability is a core principle, with energyefficient building practices, water conservation measures, and environmentally friendly materials Item Number: 16.
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reducing the ecological footprint and providing cost savings. The Encanto Project represents a significant step forward in residential development, promising to be a vibrant, sustainable, and welcoming community in Coachella.
1.4 SUBCONSULTANTS
For this contract with the City of Desert Hot Springs, we have brought on two subconsultants to support with open space and architectural scopes of work. We have worked with both firms listed on SOQ and are confident in the level of expertise they will provide on task orders. Altum staff prides itself on successful teamwork and communication between staff members and subconsultants which lead to successful completion of the project in a timely manner. Herman Design Group – Landscape Architecture
o Contact Info - 77-899 Wolf Road, Suite 102 Palm Desert, CA 92211; (760) 777-9131; Chris Herman, CEO, [email protected]
Domusstudio Architecture – Architecture & Design Guidelines o Contact Info - 2800 Third Avenue San Diego, California 92103 (619) 692-9393; John Pyjar, [email protected]
Hermann Design Group
Hermann Design Group, Inc. was founded in 1995 in Palm Desert, California. Our founding philosophy was to create a firm by which we are able to select projects that are unique and allow for Mr.
Hermann to lead the design process and build relationships with clients that will last for a lifetime. We evaluate the unique needs and desires of our clients through creative thinking, and we provide the right solutions for individual projects. In the desert environment, design solutions have to consider the sustainability of the environment that we value so much.
HDG has extensive experience designing projects that are LEED certified and include sustainable practices. Our team has worked on projects for a number of public agencies including CVAG, CVEP, County of Riverside, and most of the Cities in the Coachella Valley. In June 2013, Hermann Design Group was awarded a three-year on-call landscape architecture contract with the County of San Bernardino’s Special Districts Department. We have thorough knowledge of the approval process required by these agencies as well as CVWD and Riverside County Agricultural Commission. We are investors in the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership.
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Domusstudio Architecture
domusstudio architecture is an award-winning design firm, formed in 1986 as Dominy + Associates Architects, based on a philosophy to maintain close participation in projects and produce quality design. Lew Dominy, retired founding Principal, with Partners Wayne Holtan, David Pfeifer, John Pyjar, David Keitel and Jon Dominy have experience both at large and smalloffice levels; as a result, domusstudio provides large firm experience and small firm service. domusstudio architecture has won over seventy design awards and competitions. We are problem solvers, known widely for working with minimal space and budgets to address the needs of the client within the constraints they have. Our talented staff, including the five principals and a support staff of 13 are dedicated to achieving your goals. Each staff member is skilled in different disciplines to meet all of our clients’ needs. Establishing long-term relationships with our clients and focusing on owner occupied structures is our mission. This enables us to work closely with our clients, so that we may better understand their needs. A commitment to quality design, wellorchestrated teamwork, budget accuracy, and client satisfaction forms the backbone of our practice. The great number of clients who commission our firm with second, third, and even fourth projects prove these principles work.
1.5 PROPOSED TEAM
For this contract with the City of Desert Hot Springs we have included a robust project team that is adequately staffed and trained to successfully complete any planning or environmental assignments for the City.
Stephen Nieto, MA - Director of Urban Design + Land Development Mr. Nieto has over 14 years of professional experience and serves as the Director of Altum’s Urban Design and Land Development practice, overseeing land planning, planning, and environmental services. He has worked extensively on international and domestic large-scale master planning, urban design, and architectural projects. He has broad experience working with clients in the public and private sector to create implementable master plans, dynamic mixed- use developments, and multi-family residential projects with a focus on human-scale design, sustainability, and pedestrian oriented environments. Mr. Nieto is currently the Chair of the La Quinta Planning Commission, where he reviews entitlement projects, CEQA documents, specific plans, zoning subdivision maps, and zoning and code updates. In his Director role at Altum, Mr. Nieto develops land plans, specific plans, entitlements coordination, and environmental analysis. Projects include Classic Club Master Plan and Acrisure Arena, various planning and specific plans throughout Riverside County. Prior to Item Number: 16.
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joining Altum, Mr. Nieto worked as an Urban Design for large architecture firms AECOM and Gensler where he worked extensively on large-scale master planning, urban design, and architectural projects. His previous experience at these firms includes the Los Angeles River Revitalization Concept Plan and Master Plan Update, Orange Country Great Park Master Plan, Park 101 Freeway Cap Park, New Beijing City Waterfront Master Plan, NBA Clippers Arena Master Plan, and most recently was an integral team member in the planning and awarding of the 2028 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Bid.
Rich Malacoff, AICP - Principal Planner
Mr. Malacoff has over 30 years of experience in land use planning and environmental impact analysis in Southern California. He brings a high level of planning and design knowledge and understanding to the project team through his work for the Cities of Redlands, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs, and the Caltrans District 08 Planning Department. Mr. Malacoff uses his municipal experience to ensure projects are processed correctly and expeditiously. At Altum he oversees Planning and Entitlement assignments for private development clients and works as the go-between for City inquiries. In addition, he has provided contract planning services to the City of Redlands at various times based on his ability to understand the City and provide excellent customer service. Mr. Malacoff possesses a high level of CEQA knowledge and understanding through his work providing oversight for CEQA documents, his assistance with review of developer-provided studies, and his development of mitigation monitoring and reporting programs. He managed major projects including institutional, residential, commercial, and industrial developments for several Inland Empire cities. His most recent municipal experience includes work on the Two Bunch Palms Specific Plan EIR Addendum and Desert Land Ventures Specific Plan EIR for the City of Desert Hot Springs, and the Dutch Bros Coffee IS/MND and Church at the Red Door Specific Plan IS/MND for the City of Indio.
Madeline Luke – Assistant Planner & Environmental Planner Madeline Luke is an assistant planner with a background in planning and environmental documentation. Madeline received a Bachelor of Science in Sustainable Business and Environmental Studies from the University of Redlands. Her experience includes work on housing, recreation, energy, and commercial projects requiring analysis under CEQA. In addition to conducting technical analysis, Ms. Luke is skilled at preparing the exhibits and mapping for projects through GIS and other graphic software. She has experience preparing analysis for technical issue areas and preparing and circulating required public noticing. Previous projects include preparing IS/MND, Categorical Exemptions, coordinating with technical environmental consultants for a variety of projects including single and multi-family projects, commercial, industrial, and recreational projects.
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James Bazua, P.E., QSD/QSP - Chief Engineer
Licenses: Professional Engineer – California #58394; Qualified SWPPP Developer/ Practitioner
Mr. Bazua will serve as the Project Manager and will provide design support and QA/QC for the PS&E. He has over 20 years of experience in Civil Engineering design and his "hands on" involvement with projects begins with planning-level design through preparation of construction documents for approval. His specific areas of expertise encompass design of water and sanitary sewer systems, storm drain systems, and preparation of hydrologic and hydraulic studies using StormCAD and WSPG software. Mr. Bazua is certified as a Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) and Developer (QSD) and inspects projects for compliance with SWPPP requirements. He is one of the founding members of The Altum Group and has been integrally involved with all infrastructure projects done by the firm.
Mecca Street Revitalization, County of Riverside, CA – Project Manager Alessandro Alley Street Improvements, Palm Desert, CA – Project Manager Indian Wells RV Resort Upgrades, Indio, CA – Project Manager La Quinta Village Hydrology, La Quinta, CA – Project Manager Rancho Mirage Park and Amphitheater, Rancho Mirage, CA – Project Engineer Amado Street Crosswalk Improvements, Palm Springs, CA – Project Engineer Tung Hsieh, P.E., P.L.S. - Design Engineer/Surveyor
Licenses: Professional Land Surveyor - California #8722; Professional Engineer - California #70278
Mr. Hsieh has over 13 years of experience in Land Surveying and Civil Engineering design. He will provide design and plan production for the project and will assist with preparation of the base map. Mr. Hsieh utilizes AutoCAD drafting for his land surveying and design project work which includes preparation of street improvement plans, on-site sewer plans, drainage plans, and grading plans. Mr. Hsieh is Altum’s lead Plan Checker with experience providing plan checks for multiple Imperial, Riverside, and San Bernardino jurisdictions.
Highway 111 street improvements (Madison Street to Rubidoux Street), Indio, CA – Project Engineer
Alessandro Alley Improvement, Palm Desert, CA – Project Engineer Alta Mesa 640 Wind Turbines Project, Riverside County, CA – Project Engineer Pierce Street Sewer Project, Riverside County, CA – Project Engineer Chris Hermann – President - Hermann Design Group
Education: B.A., Landscape Architecture, Pennsylvania State University Licenses: CLARB Certified Landscape Architect #40888; Certified Playground Safety Inspector, # 41236-0421 Mr. Hermann has over 30 years of experience resolving the challenges of designing in the Coachella Valley.
Chris is the lead designer on all Hermann Design Group projects and is the firm’s client relationship manager. He provides a great depth of experience on streetscape and median projects including turf removal and new landscaping. Chris serves on the architectural design review committees for The Madison Club and Hideaway, and currently sits on the board of the Salton Sea Action Committee. In the past, Chris Item Number: 16.
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served on the architectural design review committee for the City of Moreno Valley, assisting in the growth and development of that community; he also served as a member of the Moreno Valley Economic Development Commission.
Rancho Mirage Medians, Rancho Mirage, CA
La Quinta Parkways Landscaping, La Quinta, CA
CVLink Landscape Design, Various Cities, Coachella Valley, CA Rancho Mirage Community Park Expansion & Amphitheater, Rancho Mirage Jose Estrada - Principal/Irrigation Designer - Hermann Design Group Education: B.A., Landscape Architecture, California Polytechnic State University, Pomona Mr. Estrada has been an integral part of Hermann Design Group since 1999. He has established himself as an expert in irrigation design and water auditing. His extensive experience in the preparation of construction documents and field work experience allows for a complete design process from the schematic level to final design. Jose is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, making him invaluable in the field, as well as instrumental in translating during public input workshops or community meetings.
Jose has a wide diversity of experience in projects including public works projects, commercial, urban development, golf course development and institutional projects. He is an experienced designer of LEED certified projects.
Rancho Mirage Medians Irrigation Design, Rancho Mirage Seeley Drive Median Irrigation Design, La Quinta
Acacia Parkway and Median Irrigation Design, La Quinta Oakhurst Mission Hills Median Irrigation Design, La Quinta John Pyjar, AIA – Principal – Domusstudio
Licenses: Architect, California C23885 LEED AP
With over 34 years of experience in coordinating both new construction and renovation projects utilizing various CAD and BIM software, John will play an important role in the charrette and conceptual development of the architectural elements. He will bring a comprehensive approach and technical/BIM aptitude to the team, leading the project team with the initial BIM standards and protocol. Involved throughout all phases of the project, John assists the project team with design and detailing, field verification, production of construction documents, coordination with consultants, and construction administration. His strong technical aptitude and detailing experience shine in building systems integration, equipment coordination, and construction administration. John is highly involved in both the field-related and administrative construction activities to maintain design consistency from start to finish.
Michael Meizen, AIA – Project Manager – Domusstudio
Licenses: Architect, California, 2019, Architect, Maryland, 2016 Michael grew up in Wisconsin and Maryland, attended Cal Poly, SLO, and studied abroad for a year in Copenhagen. His experience spans sacred, educational, affordable housing, custom residential, corporate architecture, and commercial development. Michael is a California-registered architect, a member of the American Institute of Architects, chair of the AIA San Diego Committee on the Environment (COTE), and serves as a Subject Matter Expert for the CAB supplemental exam. He is Item Number: 16.
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passionate about the architectural process and creating purposeful, contextual, and holistic designs.
1.6 REFERENCES
The Altum Group is proud of the strong relationships we have formed with both our Public and Private Clients over the years. Our work ethic and dedication to each individual project are represented by our repeat clients and powerful references. We are pleased to be able to provide references who will attest to our knowledge of planning services.
Kevin Snyder, AICP
Director of Community Development
City of Indio
100 Civic Center Mall
Indio, CA 92201
(760) 541-4255
[email protected]
Project: Church of the Red Door
Specific Plan
Gabriel Perez
Director of Development
Services
City of Coachella
1515 Sixth Street
Coachella, CA 92236
(760) 398-3502
[email protected]
Project: PUD Documentation
for Encanto Housing Projects
Sandra Molina
Deputy Director of
Development Services
City of Cathedral City
68700 Avenida Lalo Guerrero
Cathedral City, CA 92234
(760) 202-2433
[email protected]
Project: Uptown Village
Specific Plan Amendment
Cheri Flores
Planning Manager
City of La Quinta
78-495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
(760) 777-7067
[email protected]
Project: Urban Land Institute (ULI)
HWY 111 TAP Study
Russell Brady
Riverside County Planner
City of San Jacinto
4080 Lemon Street 12th
Floor
Riverside, CA 92501
(951) 955-3025
[email protected]
Project: North Star Specific
Plan Amendment
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1.7 ORGANIZATION CHART
Item Number: 16.
Appendix
Project Team Quals &
Resumes
Ds
Item Number: 16.
Stephen Nieto
Director of Urban Design + Land Development
www.thealtum group.com
Education:
Master of Architecture, UCLA
Architecture and Urban Design, 2009
Bachelor of Architecture, California
State Polytechnic University,
Pomona, 2008
National Technological University
Athens, Greece, 2006
Associations:
City of La Quinta Planning
Commissioner, 2019-Current
American Institutes of Architects,
Assoc. 2012-Current
The Urban Land Institute, 2017-
Current
Friends of Park 101, Board of
Directors 2013-2017
Awards:
Palm Springs Life 40rty Under 40rty,
2022
AIA Los Angeles 2x8 Award 2010 and
2008
Qualifications:
Stephen Nieto has worked extensively on international and domestic large-scale master planning, urban design, and architectural projects. He has broad experience working in the public and private sector to create implementable master plans, dynamic mixed- use developments, single-family communities, and multi-family residential projects with a focus on human-scale design, sustainability, and pedestrian oriented environments. Stephen approaches each project with great sensibility toward contextual fit and attention to “place making”.
Stephen received a Master's degree in Architecture & Urban Design from UCLA in 2009 and since has worked with Los Angeles based design firms AECOM and Gensler.
In 2017 Stephen joined La Quinta based architecture firm, South West Concepts as a senior designer and project manager for multi-family, retail, and commercial projects.
In 2019 he was appointed to the Planning Commission for the City of La Quinta and in 2020 he joined The Altum Group and started the firm’s urban design practice.
He is active in his community and believes good urban design can positively impact the health and well-being of all residents. A Coachella Valley native, he is proud of his local accomplishments including some of the region’s most prominent developments.
He strives to show that Altum is one of the top land development firms in Southern California and works with key clients and teaming partners to ensure each project has the top talent and skillsets to successfully accomplish all objectives. This includes a hands-on approach to all entitlement, master planning, municipal planning, and urban design projects that are started at Altum.
Project Experience:
Urban Design and Land Planning
Valley Center Mixed Use Project Specific Plan, Cathedral City, CA Mr. Nieto provided Due Diligence services required for the development of The Valley Center Project. The proposed project is located on approximately 600 acres on Varner and Date Palm Drive in the City of Cathedral City. Mr. Nieto worked closely with the Client to prepare a Conceptual Land Use Plan for the subject property that attempted to yield the Client's lot count and intensity/density desires. The Plan was based on the proposed land uses allowed under the North City Specific Plan and other relevant agency zoning requirements. Two bubble concepts were developed for client’s consideration and the final plan was prepared to scale, in color and printed in large format. The intent of these illustrations was to facilitate discussions with team members, City of Cathedral City representatives, and other civic leaders.
The Classic Club Master Plan and Northstar Specific Plan, Riverside County, CA Mr. Nieto is the lead planning team for the Classic Club Master and the Northstar Specific Plan, a 500+ acre mixed-use long range plan that surrounds an existing award winning 18 hole Classic Club Golf Course. The master plan includes a variety of uses from recreational open space, multi-family, commercial, industrial, hospitality, sport, and entertainment Item Number: 16.
Stephen Nieto
Director of Urban Design + Land Development
2 uses. Mr. Nieto recently lead a specific plan amendment to allow for a 295,000 SF Arena & Event Center as well as hospitality and multi-family uses. Planned development throughout the master plan in addition to the newly proposed arena are designed to be connected with a network of pedestrian and bike paths to promote walkability and non-vehicular transportation. At full build the Classic Club will become a beacon for leisure, hospitality, sport, and entertainment in the Coachella Valley.
Glazcon Industrial Park Master Plan, Palm Desert, CA
Mr. Nieto is the Project Manager and Urban Designer for this project involving the development of approximately 90,000 square feet of manufacturing and industrial uses within the Millennium Specific Plan area of Palm Desert. The project requires processing the entitlement package to allow for zoning updates to the City’s General Plan and a finding of consistency with the outline of the Millennium Specific Plan. As part of the entitlement application, Mr. Nieto prepared several conceptual site plans to highlight potential layouts for the eight (8) industrial buildings.
Vista Chino/Gene Autry Mixed Use Development Entitlements, Palm Springs, CA Mr. Nieto is the Project Manager for a mixed-use project designed to promote walkability between the residential and commercial uses in an area of Palm Springs that is typically served by automobiles. The includes a grocery store, coffee shop, gym, and car wash all within walking distance of the resident apartments within the complex. Mr. Nieto recently oversaw the Planned Development District Justification Letter for the City. Once approved, the project will move into the entitlement phase with Mr. Nieto providing oversight and management of civil plans and environmental documentation.
Thermal Airport Conceptual Master Plan, Riverside County, CA Mr. Nieto is serving as the lead Urban Designer for this unique development project located at the Southeast corner of Airport Blvd and Tyler St in Thermal, near the Jacqueline Cochran (Thermal) Airport. This development caters to the existing users of the Thermal Airport providing a variety of indoor and outdoor amenities to travelers visiting the Coachella Valley for pleasure and for business. The Master Plan is focused on developing a pedestrian-oriented framework and open space design that will foster a unique environment, rich with dense palm groves, landscaping, outdoor shaded seating areas, open spaces, and plazas suitable for corporate or private events. Due to the project location, this development has the opportunity to rethink the concept of a mixed-use aviation business park and has the opportunity to become a new “Front Door” or “Gateway” for the Thermal Airport.
Vista del Norte Preliminary Program, Conceptual Bubble Land Use Plan, & Conceptual Site Design, Coachella, CA Mr. Nieto prepared the Conceptual Site Design and Preliminary Programing services required for the Vista del Norte Project. The project site is located on 32.09 acres on Vista Del Notre Road immediately northwest of the existing Dillion Road On/Off Ramps along I-10 Freeway in the City of Coachella. The Client was exploring a land use modification to better position the property for timely development and required Urban Design services to bring the vision to life. Altum worked with the Client to develop a preliminary program based on market demands and needs. The preliminary program included supporting precedent imagery of development typologies and example images of best practices development strategies envisioned for the project site. Altum then produced a conceptual bubble land use plan that graphically demonstrated the sites development potential; the plan conceptually organized/arranged the site program, vehicular and pedestrian circulation, retention, and open space opportunities. Upon completion of the site bubble land use plan, Altum produced a scaled conceptual master plan hand sketch. The master plan sketch located access ways, streets, alleys, sidewalks, building footprints, open space elements, and parking lots. This conceptual master plan sketch helped the Client and City Staff Members understand the Project’s vision and positively demonstrated future development opportunities.
Contract Planning, Various Cities, CA
Mr. Nieto serves as the Contract Manager overseeing staff on assignment at the Cities of San Jacinto, Apple Valley, Indian Wells, and Imperial Beach. He also previously managed staff working on assignment with the City of Moreno Valley. Mr.
Item Number: 16.
Stephen Nieto
Director of Urban Design + Land Development
3 Nieto ensures all assignments from the Cities are thoroughly staffed and assists with questions regarding entitlements and architectural processes.
Thousand Palm Multi-Family Master Plan, Riverside County, CA Mr. Nieto is serving as the lead Urban Planner for the Thousand Palms Multi-Family Master Plan project located in the unincorporated Thousand Palms region of Riverside County. The development is seeking entitlements to develop two parcels for a Multi-Family Residential Development. The intent of the project is to provide high quality rental apartments designed to accommodate a range of demographics with a variety of open space amenities. Site amenities include a community center, community pools, central park, court yards, plazas, shade elements, dog park, pedestrian corridors and walkways that connect all areas of the site. The community center, central open space, and a linear “desert oasis” green belt is located at the heart of the plan to promote community interaction and convenient access to site amenities.
Della Development, Bastrop County, TX
Mr. Nieto assisted in the concept master plan and lotting design for a proposed residential development on over 200 acres in Bastrop County. The Project was Altum’s first Urban Design + Land Development effort in the State of Texas.
Urban Land Institute (ULI) HWY 111 Technical Advisory Panel, La Quinta, CA Stephen participated as an Urban Designer panel expert in the La Quinta HWY 111 ULI Technical Advisory Panel. Twelve panelists participated in the ULI study, representing a wide range of professions within the real estate development industry, architecture, landscape architecture, urban planning, marketing, transportation engineering, finance, land development and policy planning. For this important commercial/retail corridor, Stephen participated in site visits, city staff and stakeholder meetings, design charrettes, conceptual design, final planning recommendations and final report graphics.
Southern California Association of Governments, Park 101 District, Los Angeles, CA Stephen served on the board of advisors for the Friends or Park 101 Non-Profit for 5 years. Park 101 is a major re- visioning of Los Angeles’ downtown with the proposed capping of the 101 Freeway which currently occupies a deep trench, severing the historic El Pueblo from City Hall and Government Center. The study area encompasses over 150 acres. The Vision is to establish a pedestrian oriented focus in the downtown, with a campus of new buildings and a central park in a bold and economically sustainable plan which radically repositions the downtown of Los Angeles for the next 10 - 20 years of sustainable urban growth. Stephen assisted the team with the preparation of the conceptual urban design and feasibility study documentation. He also led the coordination in the development of all the 3D visualization media for the entire project site and detailed study of the phase 1 cap and re-development opportunity.
Beijing Tongzhou City Investment & Operation, New Beijing City, Tongzhou, China Stephen assisted in leading a multidisciplinary team to develop a new Global City on the eastern edge of Beijing. At the time, this was the first Public Private Partnership in China to develop a new international city. Located at the termination of the historic canal that connects Beijing to the sea, and has for centuries provided a link for important waterborne commerce, the new city is emerging as an international creative capitol. With multiple project sites within the Tongzhou region, the project sites consists of a combined area of 12 square kilometers. Stephen managed planning and documentation for a new central business district, waterfront levy design guidelines, historic village, central park, convention center, transit oriented development, and grand marina financial district.
Parks and Recreational Projects
500-Acre Sports, Entertainment, and Mixed-Use Community Master Plan, Riverside County, CA Mr. Nieto is the lead urban design components for this 500+ acre mixed use master plan located in the heart of the Coachella Valley. This new community is poised to become one of the Coachella Valley’s most dynamic master planned Item Number: 16.
Stephen Nieto
Director of Urban Design + Land Development
4 communities in recent time. This family-first destination is planned with a “community first” approach, filled with open space opportunities, pedestrian trails and bike ways, parks, that is anchored with a sports, entertainment, and medical hub. The plan includes a 10,000-seat arena and 14,000-seat indoor sports stadium, home to the desert’s top medical district, 45 acres outdoor sports park, hotels, a neighborhood hospital, ambulatory surgical center, and medical office building. Plans calls for over 3,000 new dwelling units, a town center, resort and hotel uses, outdoor amphitheater, soccer fields, indoor waterpark, and family emporium, which will feature indoor rock climbing, laser tag, bowling and more.
Empire Grand Oasis PAR Exhibits, Indio, CA
Mr. Nieto prepared a number of exhibits for a Pre-Application Review (PAR) for a proposed festival facility in Indio. The Client was seeking approval for a proposed permanent facility that would allow 26 major events and unlimited minor events (possibly less than 200) annually without having to apply for a temporary use permit process every time an event is planned. Altum initially provided Due Diligence services for the project to establish the best approach for the approval process from the County of Riverside. Several figures were required to show the project site and establish a general layout for the events. Altum’s Urban Design team was tasked with creating the overall Site Plan, Proposed Uses, Traffic/Transportation flow patterns, and other relevant images that accompanied the Client’s submittal. 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Bid - University California of Los Angeles (UCLA) Athlete Village, Los Angeles, CA Stephen supported the winning LA2028 Olympic Bid Committee in developing a comprehensive citywide strategy for hosting the 2028 Summer Olympic Games. As the lead urban designer, Stephen developed plans for venue planning, city wide public transportation strategy, bid document planning graphics and branding. University California of Los Angeles has been selected as a key venue cluster and Athlete Village site, Stephen facilitated technical design/planning services and worked with UCLA leadership to deliver a world class Athlete Village.
NBA Clippers Arena/Entertainment Center Master Plan and Feasibility Study, Inglewood, CA Consisting of a 18,000-seat multi-purpose arena of approximately 750,000 SF that will be designed as the most innovative NBA facility ever built, this facility will serve as a flexible entertainment venue. The arena will be supported by a 80,000 SF state-of-the-art training and practice facility along with 50,000 SF of adjoining executive offices, 18,000 SF of an integrated health facility, 3,000 parking spaces, and a fan activation plaza with supporting retail uses. Stephen led a team of planners and landscape architects to develop planning and urban design alternatives to support and promote the development of core operational components, franchise revenue generation, athlete/fan experience, retail uses and public amenities.
Golf Center Village Mixed Use Master Plan, Indio, CA
Planning and conceptual design for an 18-acre mixed-use master plan in Indio, CA. The plan includes a 70 room hotel, 500 person ballroom, restaurants, commercial-flex space, retail uses, plazas, and courtyards. The master plan rethinks parking lot driven retail design by utilizing planning concepts of distributed parking and optimized land use mix to promote a walkable pedestrian friendly environment.
Glamis Specific Plan, Imperial County, CA
Managing a Specific Plan for an area known as “Glamis” located in a remote, unincorporated area in the central-eastern portion of Imperial County. The Glamis area is known as a gathering location for the Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) community, with miles of sand dunes and trails utilized by All-Terrain Vehicles (ATVs), dirt bikes, and other extreme vehicles. The Glamis Specific Plan provides a flexible recreational master plan with a broad range of land uses ranging from recreational, commercial/retail, storage, and entertainment to hospitality, residential, and renewable energy, among others. The Plan attempts to build off the historical Glamis-going experience by providing expanded recreational, commercial, entertainment, and hospitality experiences, yet still complying with County Planning goals by addressing environmental, engineering, commercial, public safety, and aesthetic needs identified during the planning process.
Item Number: 16.
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Director of Urban Design + Land Development
5 Transportation Projects
Los Angeles Waterfront, San Pedro CA
The LA Waterfront, formerly the “Bridge to Breakwater” project, consisted of a comprehensive revitalization development plan for this 400-acre underutilized port property. The plan includes a new open space system with an expansive water’s edge promenade, a great civic “central park,” public gardens, new public piers, a cruise terminal and new harbors for additional boat activity areas, future public parking structures, major landscape improvements, roadway realignments and improvements, and public art installations.
City of Los Angeles, Sixth Street Bridge Design Competition - Finalist, Los Angeles, CA Lead urban designer for the competition, sponsored by the City’s Department of Public Works, to design a new bridge and public open space for one of the city’s most iconic and recognized bridge. Roles included scale comparisons, conceptual alternative development, urban framework diagramming, park design, rendering, physical model coordination, and coordination of all CAD and 3D visualization and documentation.
City of Tongzhou, China Bridge Design Competition - Finalist, Tongzhou, China.
Lead urban designer for this competition, sponsored by the City of Tongzhou, to design a waterfront park, promenade, urban design enhancements, and two new iconic bridges for the cities new central business district. Roles included scale comparisons, conceptual alternative development, urban framework and community connectivity, open space design, rendering production, and coordination of all CAD and 3D visualization and documentation.
HaiChang Tourism Group, Sanya Haichang Master Plan, Sanya, Hainan, China Team member and project designer. While at AECOM Stephen developed a master plan for a new coastal mixed-use entertainment destination in Sanya, located on the island of Hainan in China. The destination centered around 150,000 square meters of retail, restaurant, and entertainment spaces. Scope of services included master planning, economic feasibility studies, and conceptual architecture development. Stephen served as a senior urban designer for this project.
City of Santa Monica, Freeway Capping Planning Feasibility Study and Bridging and Decking Projects, Santa Monica, CA Feasibility Study for capping a stretch of the I-10 Santa Monica Freeway, approximately one quarter of a mile in length, at the terminus of the freeway in the City of Santa Monica. With the projected arrival of the Exposition Light Rail in 2015, the City of Santa Monica has prioritized improving connections between various areas. Stephen worked with city planners and economists to develop urban design scenarios to support a feasibility/market study. The feasibility/market study was developed to address:
Assess existing conditions and identify key opportunities and constraints of phased freeway capping in the project area
Provide structural and technical analyses
Identify a range of phasing options that achieve the City’s vision; integrate options that cap the freeway with a combination of open space and buildings
Include renderings, illustrations, and graphics that effectively communicate draft and final concepts in public meetings and in the final document
Engage public officials and stakeholders in the consideration of options and incorporate input into the final document
Recommend phasing for implementing funded segments, as well as future phases Provide the schedule and framework for CalTrans entitlements and identify funding sources
Item Number: 16.
Stephen Nieto
Director of Urban Design + Land Development
6 Lectures, Publications, Interviews
Cal Poly Pomona “Globalization” Conference | Presenter, Panelist “How bridges help us better understand where we live”, Globe and Mail-Magazine, June 2014 Park 101 Film-Documentary, 2014
Future Arquitecturas Magazine Vol. 19 + 20 Interactive Architecture, 2009 “8 Ways Los Angeles is Becoming Less Suburban”, KCRW, February 2015 “Capping freeways maybe a way to provide more open space in L.A.”, Los Angeles Times, December 2014 “Aiming High: Finalist for 6th Street Bridge”, KCRW, September 2012 “The Los Angeles River, Cut Loose” Landscape Architecture Magazine 2017 Item Number: 16.
Rich Malacoff, MURP, AICP
Principal Planner
www.thealtum group.com
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Geography;
Florida State University;
Tallahassee, Florida; 1984
Master of Urban Planning; Hunter
College of The City University of New
York; New York City, New York; 1986
Registrations:
Member of the American Institute of
Certified Planners (AICP) # 006811
Associations:
Planning Commissioner, City of
Cathedral City (2022 – Present)
Member of the American Planning
Association (APA)
Qualifications:
Mr. Malacoff has over 30 years of experience in land use planning and environmental impact analysis. His first job was with the Planning Department of the City of New York where he worked in the Loft Conversion Unit evaluating requests to change industrial lofts to residential. He relocated to California to start a position at the Caltrans District 08 Planning Department where he reviewed City Projects for their impacts on the State Highway System and for compliance with the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). He went on to work in City Planning positions for various agencies, including the City of Redlands, City of Cathedral City, and City of Desert Hot Springs.
This municipal background includes managing City Committees, project management, historic preservation, Preliminary Review Committee, CEQA oversight, acting as Community Development Director, and conducting community outreach. During his employment in the public sector, he provided oversight for environmental documents, assisted with review of consultant provided studies, and helped develop strong mitigation monitoring and reporting programs. He also managed major projects including institutional, residential, commercial, and industrial developments.
Mr. Malacoff used his municipal experience to ensure projects were processed correctly and expeditiously.
At Altum, Mr. Malacoff works as Principal Planner and oversees Planning and Entitlement assignments for private development clients and works as the gobetween for City inquiries for the firm’s engineering, surveying, and environmental planning departments. His experience at Altum includes major projects including institutional, residential, commercial, and industrial developments. Mr. Malacoff recently oversaw preparation of the Specific Plans and Design Guidelines for the Two Bunch Palms Specific Plan Amendment, Church at the Red Door Specific Plan, and the Coachella Green Business Park. He is familiar with utilizing urban design to help projects gain approval at the municipal-level. He regularly mixes-in concept plans with detailed site overlays to supplement planning documents and applications to help agencies better understand a project.
Mr. Malacoff is a current member of the American Planning Association and has his accreditation by the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) and served on the Diversity Committee for the American Planning Association’s 2020 Conference. and has received accommodations from the Mayors of Cathedral City and Desert Hot Springs.
Item Number: 16.
Rich Malacoff, MURP, AICP
Principal Planner
2 Project Experience:
Regional Planning
Redlands Sign Code, Redlands, CA
Project Manager for Sign Code Update. Managed Community Outreach with Chamber of Commerce and Business Community. Conducted Study Sessions with the Planning Commission and City Council which approved the Revised Ordinance. Implementation measures included working with Code Enforcement on procedures to inform the Business Community of the changes and managing the enforcement program.
Update Cathedral City Zoning Code, Cathedral City, CA
Revised City’s Zoning Code to remove internal inconsistencies and to make the development process more business friendly.
Residential Development
Two Bunch Palms Specific Plan Amendment and EIR Addendum, Desert Hot Springs, CA Project Manager for a Specific Plan Amendment (SPA) to the development standards for zoning, landscaping, and architectural guidelines, relevant to a proposed RV Park on a 9-acre parcel (2 lots) in Desert Hot Springs. The Specific Plan Amendment would modify the current Specific Plan designation to permit a Recreational Vehicle (RV) Park. The amendment would also consist of amending the development standards for zoning, landscaping, and architectural guidelines relevant to the RV Park.
DHS 109 Industrial Park Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration, Desert Hot Springs, CA Prepared sections of an Initial Study and Mitigated Negative Declaration for the development of an industrial park consisting of 57 condo lots for industrial development, 4 retention basins, and a private on-site power plant. The proposed project would be constructed in four phases that would total 109 acres a full project built-out. Ms. Hernandez evaluated City documents such as the General Plan and the City’s Municipal Code to write the aesthetics section of the Initial Study.
Coachella 20 AC (Encanto Housing Project), Coachella, CA Mr. Malacoff is managing the entitlement process (including the environmental documentation and civil engineering) required for a proposed residential development in the City of Coachella. The proposed project will consist of 110-120 dwelling units on a 20-acre property located along Van Buren Street and east of Calhoun Street. Key issues being examined include biological and cultural resources, air quality/GHG, noise, geology/soils, and traffic, including a VMT analysis. Due to the site’s rural nature, a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment is also being prepared to ensure no hazards are identified onsite.
Vista Palms Tentative Tract Map (TTM) and Design Review, Desert Hot Springs, CA Mr. Malacoff directed all aspects with processing the Tentative Tract Map, and Design Review for this important 100-unit subdivision in the City of Desert Hot Springs that had a $750,000 budget from the private developer. Work tasks included Community Outreach, Exemption from CEQA, Landscape Review, Architectural Review, Site Plan Analysis, Drafting Staff Reports, and presentations at the Architectural Review Committee, and Planning Commission Meetings.
Municipal Development
Church at the Red Door Specific Plan and IS/MND, Indio, CA Project Manager for preparation of a Specific Plan and Preliminary Design and Entitlements for the development of a worship center in Indio. The proposed project would be built in two phases with phase one consisting of a new church building and traversing covered outdoor walkway. Phase two consists of a two-story expansion along the eastern face of the church building.
Item Number: 16.
Rich Malacoff, MURP, AICP
Principal Planner
3 Redlands Islamic Center, Redlands, CA
Project Manager for this place of worship and specific tasks included Community Outreach, Applicant Education on Development Process, and managing the development process from beginning to end.
Commercial Development
Desert Land Ventures Specific Plan EIR, Desert Hot Springs, CA Assisted in the preparation of an EIR for the build-out of 123.4 acres of land known as Desert Land Ventures to incorporate mixed-use development and create a unique industrial/technology park for clean manufacturing and tech-based business with an emphasis on renewable energy and sustainable products, with the potential for destination hospitality and commercial/retail uses.
Dutch Bros Coffee Entitlements and IS/MND, Indio, CA
Provided Technical Oversight and Client Management for the Entitlement package, including an IS/MND, for an 887 square foot building consisting of a drive-through, patio area, and required parking. Close coordination with the City of Indio was required to ensure all aspects of the entitlement package were complete.
Sunniva Cultivation Facility Entitlements, Cathedral City, CA Project Manager for 500,000 square foot cultivation facility which included managing the tasks for the Conditional Use Permit, Mitigated Negative Declaration, and all Public Hearings. This project had concurrent processing which required coordination among many different parties and ensuring all information was accurate.
Coachella Green Design Guidelines, Coachella, CA
Project Manager for developing Design Guidelines for a large Cannabis Cultivation and Processing Facility.
Brookside Plaza, Redlands, CA
Project Manager for construction of Neighborhood Shopping Center which included Community Outreach, Plan Check, and preparation of a Mitigated Negative Declaration. Managed Development Process from beginning to end.
Staybridge Hotel, Cathedral City, CA
Project Manager for this 122 Room Hotel This project was considered controversial by the Community and required many meetings with the public which resulted in changes to the project. Other tasks included managing the Mitigated Negative Declaration, coordinating photo-simulations, working with Acoustics Engineer, providing updates with Investment Team, and managing the entitlement process.
Various Positions/Tasks, Inland Empire, CA
Project Manager for the following projects for which task included everything from project submittal to issuing Certificates of Occupancy:
Cimarron Cove Housing Tract, Cathedral City
Volkswagen of Palm Springs, Cathedral City
Vista Palm Housing Tract, Desert Hot Springs
Flamingo Resort, Desert Hot Springs
Municipal Planning
City of Indian Wells Community Development Department
Mr. Malacoff recently provided Principal Planner level services to the City of Indian Wells through an on-call contract held by Altum. The City required assistance with processing a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) modification for a new Sprouts Item Number: 16.
Rich Malacoff, MURP, AICP
Principal Planner
4 Market. He assisted with the preparation of staff reports for the Planning Commission and City Council and presented the project to Council on behalf of the City.
City of Redlands Planning Department – Employment and Contract Planning At the City of Redlands, he had various responsibilities such as Preliminary Review, Environmental Review Officer, Historic Preservation Officer, CEQA analysis for private projects and capital improvement projects, and management of all activities of the Historic and Scenic Preservation Commission and Environmental Review Committee. He also worked on many Conditional Use Permits, Commission Review and Approvals, Special Events, Specific Plans, Sign Ordinance Amendments, Ordinance Text Amendments, Zone Changes, and General Plan Amendments. Mr. Malacoff also provided contract planning services on two (2) separate occasions as requested by City staff. He worked at City Hall providing all services listed above.
City of Cathedral City Planning Department
At the City of Cathedral City, he was the liaison to the Architectural Review Committee and Planning Commission. He managed all projects reviewed by these boards from Project Initiation to Final Clearance. He also wrote many ordinances on a variety of subjects the most prominent one: a business-friendly development process. In addition, Mr. Malacoff was responsible for Film Permits, Special Events, and many regulatory inspections for various businesses.
City of Desert Hot Springs Planning Department
At the City of Desert Hot Springs he was the sole staff to the Planning Division and managed all functions of the Planning Division including being the liaison to the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee, Community and Cultural Arts Commission, Planning Commission, and City Council. In addition, Mr. Malacoff was the Acting Community Development Director on two separate occasions which included managing the Planning, Building, Engineering, Facilities, and Public Works Departments. Mr. Malacoff also was involved in the development of the City’s Cannabis Program and help many workshops and processed many projects.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
www.thealtumgroup.com
Education:
Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering,
San Diego State University
Associate of Science Engineering,
College of the Desert
Registrations:
State of California, Registered Civil
Engineer #58394
Qualified SWPPP Developer Qualified
SWPPP Practitioner
Associations:
American Public Works Association,
Coachella Valley Branch – Board
Member
Qualifications:
Mr. Bazua has over 25 years of experience in Civil Engineering design for both public agency and private client projects. He founded The Altum Group along with Mike Peroni and Doug Franklin in 2009 and is the Chief Engineer for the company. As one of the founding members of The Altum Group, he has been integrally involved with all engineering projects done by the firm. His "hands on" involvement with projects begins with planning-level design through preparation of construction documents for approval. His specific areas of expertise encompass street design, commercial and industrial site design, grading and land development, design of storm drain systems and preparation of hydrologic and hydraulic studies using StormCAD and WSPG software. Mr. Bazua has a background in preparing engineering plans for a range of projects, including high-end residential and Country Clubs, recreational facilities, hotels, planned developments, infrastructure upgrades, renewable energy, and schools. Mr. Bazua utilizes CAD drafting and design support on all of his project work.
A certified Qualified SWPPP Practitioner (QSP) and Developer (QSD), Mr. Bazua inspects projects for compliance with SWPPP requirements. As Altum’s Stormwater Lead, he oversees preparation of Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plans (SWPPP) for qualifying Altum projects. A life-long Coachella Valley resident, his knowledge of hydrology and drainage in the area is second to none, and he is regularly recommended by developers and City officials to review and check submitted plans dealing with these issues. Mr. Bazua has several times utilized this in-depth knowledge to help re-design drainage plans to implement cost savings for clients.
Mr. Bazua is currently serving as a Board Member for the Coachella Valley Branch of the American Public Works Association (APWA) and was presented with an Award of Merit for his engineering design on the Mecca Street Revitalization Project from the APWA.
Project Experience:
Residential Projects
The Reserve, Palm Desert/Indian Wells, CA
On-call Project Engineer responsible for preparation of construction documents for on-site development. Prepared precise grading plans as the engineer of record for over fifty large-scale single-family homes within The Reserve.
The Huntley Project, Indian Wells, CA
Mr. Bazua oversaw the preliminary design, final design and construction services required for the development of an 18- unit single-family residential in-fill project on approximately 4.2 acres located at the Warner Trail/Blackfoot Drive intersection in the City of Indian Wells. As the Project Manager and Project Engineer, Mr. Bazua prepare rough grading, sewer plans, water plans, and the precise grading plans.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
2 Single Family Residences Civil Engineering Plan Check Services, Indian Wells, CA Mr. Bazua completed plan check services for Mass Grading, Flood Control, Hydrology, and a prepared Geotechnical Report for a number of single-family residential projects located in Indian Wells. He compared the prepared plans and reports to Indian Wells standards and noted possible exemptions per City specifications.
Indian Wells RV Resort, Indio, CA
Mr. Bazua provided engineering services in support of proposed reconfiguration and upgrades to the Indian Wells RV Resort located in the City of Indio as Project Manager and the Engineer of Record. The project included improvements to the existing resort and rearrangement of existing spaces. The site borders two major thoroughfares, Highway 111 and Jefferson.
Palm Desert Senior Villas on the Green, Palm Desert, CA As Project Engineer, prepared all precise grading and drainage improvement plans for the luxury senior apartment community.
Venezia, Palm Desert, CA
As Project Engineer, prepared all street and drainage improvement plans for the Venezia residential project.
Redevelopment of Downtown San Diego, San Diego, CA
Prepared improvement plans for the Redevelopment of Downtown San Diego as one of the staff as-needed engineers for the Centre City Development Corporation (CCDC-City of San Diego).
Golf Course, Recreation, and School Projects
Classic Club Golf Course and Northstar Development, Palm Desert, CA As Engineer of Record from the beginning of the entitlement phase through completion of construction, Mr. Bazua prepared all improvement plans for the Northstar Development in an unincorporated area of Riverside County near Palm Desert, CA. This project was a 445-acre site which consists of the Classic Club Golf Course (former home of the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic tournament), clubhouse and other golf related facilities, future office buildings, retail shopping center with underground parking structures, industrial development, and residential condominiums. The project was processed through the County of Riverside, Coachella Valley Water District (incl. coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers), Caltrans and the Riverside County Flood Control District (RCFCD). Improvement plans prepared by Mr. Bazua include Rough Grading Plans for the Classic Club Golf Course, Precise Grading Plans for the Classic Club Clubhouse and Varner Road Street Improvement Plans.
DSRT Surf Project, Palm Desert, CA
Project Engineer for the design services regarding development of the DSRT Surf Resort within the existing Desert Willow Resort Development in Palm Desert. This unique project involves construction of an artificial wave/surf pool and various recreational facilities including swimming pools, a hotel, casitas, surf shop, tennis courts, and other amenities. The project utilizes proprietary wave technology to create surf-ready waves in a specialized pool. Altum prepared all civil improvement plans for work on the site as well as mapping and coordination to facilitate construction on the 14.65-acre site concept plan. Specific plans prepared by Mr. Bazua include Rough Grading Plans, Utility Plans, Tentative Map, On-Site Hydrology, and the WQMP.
SilverRock Resort, La Quinta, CA
Project Engineer responsible for preparation of Rough Grading Plans for the SilverRock Ranch Development. At the request of City of La Quinta, construction documents were completed in two weeks to meet the upcoming PGA schedule.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
3 The Tradition Golf Club, La Quinta, CA
Prepared precise grading plans as the engineer of record for large-scale single-family homes at The Tradition Golf Club.
Desert Christian Academy Campus Improvements, Bermuda Dunes, CA Mr. Bazua serves as the Chief Engineer for Altum providing civil engineering services for the project. Desert Christian Academy is proposing hardscape and landscape improvements to an existing quad/playground area on campus, and pursuing Entitlement approval for full campus improvements.
Trilogy Club Pickleball and Bocce Courts, La Quinta, CA Mr. Bazua was the Engineer of Record for this project located within the Trilogy Club in La Quinta, Riverside County. He provided final design (civil engineering) services associated with the development of a pickleball court and bocce ball court adjacent to the Trilogy Club House. Specific deliverables included site plan coordination, and precise grading plans.
Commercial Projects
El Paseo Marketplace Project, Palm Desert, CA
Altum was hired by the owners to perform a Peer Review and take over Engineering and Surveying for the El Paseo Market Place Project, also known as the Jensen’s Shopping Center, in the heart of Palm Desert's retail district. The owners felt that the approved improvement plans prepared by an engineering firm from out of the area had been over-designed from a hydrology standpoint. Mr. Bazua and the engineering team reviewed the design, reports, and correspondence between the designer and City of Palm Desert and found that an alternative design with a greatly reduced impact to the site could be implemented. Altum presented the alternate design approach and methodology to City of Palm Desert, and it was approved allowing construction to be completed with a new parking lot serving the commercial center. Mr. Bazua’s knowledge of local drainage requirements was critical in identifying portions of the project that were overdesigned.
Sunniva Cultivation Campus, Cathedral City, CA
The Sunniva Cultivation Campus is a medical cannabis warehouse and dispensary on an approximately 19-acre site in Cathedral City. The facility consisted of two buildings totaling approximately 500,000 square feet, with 370 parking spaces, a retention basin at the southeast corner of the site, and a “laydown area” for construction materials and unloading deliveries during operations at the southwest corner of the site. Mr. Bazua was the Project Manager and Project Engineer for the project and prepared the rough grading, precise grading, storm drain design, water and sewer improvements plans, and the street improvement plans for Ramon Road.
Yellow Freight Distribution Center, San Bernardino, CA
As Project Engineer, prepared all grading, drainage and street plans for the Yellow Freight Distribution Center in San Bernardino, CA. At the time of construction, the Distribution Center was the largest of its kind in the western United States.
The project involved plan approvals and coordination with The City of San Bernardino, San Bernardino Flood Control District, Caltrans and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The Scene/Palm Springs Hotel, Palm Springs, CA
Mr. Bazua prepared the design for the extensive renovation of a portion of the Courtyards at Palm Springs as the Project Manager and Engineer of Record. Located at the southwest corner of Tahquitz Canyon Way and Calle Alvarado. The project includes the complete demolition of buildings and pavement, construction of several restaurant and retail buildings, related access and utility improvements, and minor reconstruction and tie-in to the adjacent parcels. Key tasks included on-site grading analysis, on-site drainage, demolition plans, precise grading plans, Sewer and Water Improvement Plans; and construction support.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
4 Cole Hotel, Palm Springs, CA
Mr. Bazua prepared the precise grading, storm drain, and utility plans for the redevelopment of the existing Modernist hotel located on North Palm Canyon Drive in Palm Springs.
Coachella Research and Development Park, Coachella, CA
Mr. Bazua is the Project Manager and Engineer of Record for this large-scale industrial cannabis complex located in the City of Coachella. The site includes two 3-story office buildings and four greenhouses totaling more than 400,000 square feet. Final Design services were required for the project and included precise grading, street improvements, storm drain design, and water and sewer plans.
Bradshaw Phase III Industrial Facility, Rancho Cucamonga, CA As Project Engineer, prepared all precise grading, drainage and street improvement plans for the 461,900 S.F. Bradshaw Industrial Facility.
Walmart, Various Locations
Prepared improvement plans for the construction of several Walmart stores in the U.S. and South America La Quinta Auto Mall, La Quinta, CA
As Project Engineer, prepared all precise grading and drainage improvement plans for facility located at Adams Street and Highway 111.
Citrus Plaza, Indio, CA
Mr. Bazua was the Engineer of Record for the 8-acre Citrus Plaza/Ralph’s shopping center located at Avenue 50 and Jefferson Street in Indio.
Palmer's Restaurant, La Quinta, CA
As Engineer of Record, provided all precise grading, storm drain design and street improvements.
La Quinta Museum, La Quinta, CA
Prepared all civil design improvements as Engineer of Record for the La Quinta Museum redevelopment.
San Diego European Motors, San Diego, CA
Served as the Engineer of Record who prepared Precise Grading Plans for renovation of existing Jaguar and Aston Martin Auto Dealerships in San Diego.
The Waterfront, Rancho Mirage, CA
Prepared all precise grading and storm drain plans as Engineer of Record for the Ruby's Diner/Mimi's Restaurant development (The Waterfront).
Rancho Mirage Audi Dealership, Rancho Mirage, CA
Mr. Bazua provided final design civil engineering plans and construction services associated with the Audi Dealership on a 1.18 site located at the corner of Mirage Drive and Highway 111 in the City of Rancho Mirage. Specific deliverables included a demolition plans for site improvements including building, parking and landscaping; conceptual and final precise grading plans; preliminary and final drainage report; final utility plans; Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan; Preliminary and Final Water Quality Management Plan; and a PM-10 Dust Mitigation Plan.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
5 Infrastructure Projects
Mecca Street Revitalization Project, Riverside County, CA As Engineer of Record, Mr. Bazua, coordinated the overall design effort with Riverside County EDA and Riverside County Transportation Department, including the creation of a master drainage plan and preparation of street improvement plans for all five phases of the Mecca Street Revitalization Project. This project consisted primarily of the preparation of plans, specifications, and estimates (PSE’s) for five phases of full-scale street improvement design for approximately 7 miles of streets within the community of Mecca, in unincorporated Riverside County. The scope of services included: safety improvements such as sidewalks, signage, bus turnouts and crosswalks for the Mecca Elementary School; street and pedestrian crossing of the Union Pacific Railroad (UPRR) involving federal funding; roundabout and entry monument improvements that serve as a gateway to Mecca; curb, gutter and pavement improvements; undergrounding/relocation of utilities; drainage solutions; parkway landscaping and park design; right of way acquisitions; and coordination with key public agencies such as RCTD, EDA, Coachella Valley Water District, Caltrans and the UPRR.
Mecca Waterline Replacement Project, Mecca, CA
Mr. Bazua served as the Engineer of Record for this project. Work consisted primarily of the preparation of three phases of waterline replacement plans. This design was part of the Mecca Street Rehabilitation Project which included improvement design for approximately seven miles of streets within the community of Mecca, in unincorporated Riverside County and completed in coordination with Coachella Valley Water District.
Alessandro Alley, Palm Desert, CA
The Alessandro Corridor Improvements encompassed the City’s downtown commercial district, a main thoroughfare through the region. Improvements proposed by the City included ADA accessibility upgrades, reorientation of several carports, updating lighting for parallel alleyway, and demolition of several walls along the street. As Project Manager and Project Engineer, Mr. Bazua prepared all street improvement plans for the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency Enhancement Project. He also coordinated work with the City of Palm Desert, Coachella Valley Water District, and various wet and dry utility agencies throughout the project.
White Stone Lane Drainage Improvements, Palm Desert, CA Mr. Bazua completed the engineering design required for the City of Palm Desert’s White Stone Lane Drainage Improvements project improving runoff scenarios along a golf course and housing development. Mr. Bazua analyzed and made recommendations for improvements to resolve these known drainage issues.
Mid-Valley Pipeline Extension, Riverside County, CA
The project involved the installation of approximately 5,350 linear feet of 2 parallel 24-inch domestic and recycled water lines designed to cross underneath Union Pacific Railroad and Interstate 10, providing the terminus of CVWD’s Mid-Valley Recycled Water Pipeline, and connecting domestic water sources on opposite sides of the transportation corridor. As the Engineer of Record, Mr. Bazua prepared plans for the final leg of the 18” Mid-Valley water line extending underneath Union Pacific Railroad.
9th Street Project, Escondido, CA
Project Engineer responsible for the preparation of street and drainage improvement plans for the City of Escondido 9th Street Project.
Item Number: 16.
James Bazua, PE, QSD/P
Chief Engineer
6 Renewable Energy Projects
Palm Springs Wind Repower Wind Energy Center, Palm Springs, CA Served as the Project Engineer/Engineer of Record who prepared Rough Grading Plans for a repowering of a wind farm in Palm Springs, CA.
North Palm Springs Solar I, Palm Springs, CA
Served as the Project Engineer/Engineer of Record responsible for Rough Grading and Street Improvement Plans for a solar farm in Palm Springs.
North Palm Springs Solar IV, Palm Springs, CA
Served as the Project Engineer/Engineer of Record responsible for Rough Grading and Street Improvement Plans for a solar farm in Palm Springs.
First Solar, Desert Sunlight Solar Farm, Desert Center, CA.
Assisted in the review and revision of the NEPA documentation for a 550 megawatt photovoltaic solar farm on 3,800 acres of land managed by the Bureau of Land Management.
WKN Wagner Wind Project, Palm Springs, CA
Served as the Project Engineer/Engineer of Record responsible for Rough Grading and Street Improvement Plans for a two turbine wind farm in Palm Springs.
Item Number: 16.
Tung Hsieh, P.E., P.L.S.
Survey Manager
www.thealtum group.com
Education:
M.S., Civil Engineering, Fresno State
University
B.S., Civil Engineering, National
Taiwan University of Science and
Technology
Registrations:
State of California, Registered Civil
Engineer #70278
State of California, Registered Land
Surveyor #8722
State of Arizona, Registered Land
Surveyor No. 51012
Qualifications:
Mr. Hsieh has over 25 years of experience in Land Surveying and Civil Engineering design in Southern California. A skilled surveyor and engineer, he utilizes CAD drafting, land surveying and design support on his projects. Mr. Hsieh’s experience includes record of surveys, tentative maps, parcel maps, final maps, environmental constraint sheets, lot line adjustment, parcel merger, certificate of compliance, construction staking layout, transmission line layout, plot plan, commercial ALTAs, large solar project ALTAs, wind energy ALTAs, right of way conveyance, legal description and plat preparation and survey map check. His experience also includes providing plan check services for local municipalities where he acted as the Surveyor of Record. Projects have included religious campuses, residential developments, industrial parks, infrastructure including transportation and water/sewer, and recreational facilities.
Mr. Hsieh currently manages the office and field crews for Altum’s Palm Desert location. He actively works with the Party Chiefs to complete project schedules and staking plans, and then assists with downloading all data points for creation of base maps.
Project Experience:
Pierce Street Sewer Extension, County of Riverside, CA
Pueblo Unido CDC
As project Engineer, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, generating surface and preparing preliminary design for a lift station near Avenue 66, a force main sewer line in Pierce Street from Avenue 66 to Avenue 70 and a backbone sanitary sewer system of a gravity sewer line in Pierce Street between Avenue 69 and Avenue 70 with spur lines approximately 2,800 feet west on Avenue 69 and 1,500 feet west on Avenue 70.
Porches Palm Springs
Indigo Auto Group
As project surveyor, Mr. Hsieh's responsibility includes coordinate with field crew for field survey, prepare record of survey, ALTA Survey, legal description and plat for easement dedication and entitlement submittal preparation. The project is to design a vacant lot to Porsche automobile dealership located on East Palm Canyon Drive in the City of Palm Springs, California.
Alta Mesa IV, County of Riverside, CA
Alta Mesa 640
As project Engineer, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work and generating surface for line of sight surface from Bonnie Bell community to three ridgelines for the suitable locations of new wind turbine, and preparing exhibits for the current turbine locations and proposed turbine locations.
Item Number: 16.
Tung Hsieh, P.E., P.L.S.
Survey Manager
2 Highway 111 Street Improvement, Indio, CA
City of Indio
As project Engineer, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, generating field survey data for street grading and preparing street improvement plan for the City of Indio. The project consists of the lane widening and street reconstructing for a two-mile stretch of Highway 111 between Rubidoux Street to the west of the Madison Street.
McCoy Solar Energy Project, County of Riverside, CA
Nextera Energy
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for the BLM right of way grant, staking sheet for transmission line and right of way for transmission line, performing prior construction ALTA/ACSM survey. The project consists of more than 2,000 acres located in the County of Riverside about 10 miles northwest of the City of Blythe.
Genesis Solar Energy Project, County of Riverside, CA
Nextera Energy
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for the BLM right of way grant, staking sheet for transmission line and right of way for transmission line, performing prior construction ALTA/ACSM survey and As-Built ALTA/ACSM survey. The project consists of more than 1,900 acres and produces 250 megawatts to provide power to Southern California Edison. It is located in the County of Riverside about 20 miles west of the City of Blythe.
Blythe Solar Energy Project, County of Riverside, CA
Solar Trust of America/Nextera Energy
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary, computing monument location, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for the BLM right of way grant and right of way for transmission line, performing prior construction ALTA/ACSM survey and As-Built ALTA/ACSM survey and working with the Bureau of Land Management to establish lost corners in Township 6 South, Range 22 East, SBM. The project consists of more than 7,000 acres located in the County of Riverside about 8 miles northwest of the City of Blythe.
US Solar Project Energy Project, Blythe, CA
US Solar
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary and street right-of-way, computing monument location, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for lease area, plot plan and submittal for the PRC meeting to the City of Blythe. The project consists of more than 800 acres located within Blythe Municipal Airport.
Blythe Photovoltaic Solar Project, CA
First Solar
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary and street right-of-way, preparing encumbrance map and right of way document for street dedication to the County of Riverside.
The project consists of more than 120 acres located about 1 mile south of Blythe Municipal Airport.
Campo Verde Solar Project; Imperial, CA
First Solar and AWCC Campo Verde Solar
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for the transmission line, performing prior construction ALTA/ACSM survey and As-Built ALTA/ACSM survey. The project consists of more than 1,400 acres and produces 139 megawatts to provide Item Number: 16.
Tung Hsieh, P.E., P.L.S.
Survey Manager
3 power to Imperial Irrigation District. It is located in the County of Imperial about 7 miles southwest of the City of El Centro.
Dillon Wind Energy Center; Palm Springs, CA
Iberdrola Renewables
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary and street right-of-way, reviewing title report and supporting documents, preparing encumbrance map, record of survey, easement document for collector route, legal description and plat for license agreement to the City of Palm Springs, preliminary roadway design and As-Built ALTA/ACSM survey, working closely with Iberdrola Renewables, Southern California Edison and the City of Palm Springs. The project consists of 45 turbines occupied more than 1,500 acres in three different areas and produces 45 megawatts to provide power to Southern California Edison.
Blythe Energy Project, Blythe, CA
FPL
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, providing project research for field crew, scheduling for field crew, performing construction staking, and preparing storm drain as-built plan. The project consists of more than 70 acres located at the west side of the City of Blythe. It is a natural gas fired power plant and generates 520 megawatts.
Blythe Transmission Project, County of Riverside, CA (March, 2009 – July, 2011) Nextera Energy
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field work, determining project boundary, scheduling for field crew, preparing legal and plat for the BLM right of way grant, staking sheet for transmission line and right of way for transmission line, performing prior construction ALTA/ACSM survey and As-Built ALTA/ACSM survey. The project consists one 230kV circuit and two 230kV underground circuits. The 230kV transmission line is approximate 67.4-mile long connecting from Buck Substation to Julian Hinds Substation in the County of Riverside.
Pavilion, La Quinta, CA
Thomas Enterprises, Inc
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes providing project research for field crew, reviewing title report and supporting documents, establishing property boundary, street right of way and preparing ALTA/ACSM survey and working with title Company and client’s attorney to resolve the boundary discrepancies. The project consists of more than 20 acres for a commercial shopping center. It is located at the northeast corner of Highway 111 and Adam Street.
Desert Ridge; Rancho Mirage, CA
Sahara Veldt Partners
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes providing project research for field crew, reviewing title report and supporting documents, establishing property boundary, street right of way and preparing ALTA/ACSM survey, tentative map, parcel map and easement document for water and sewer. The project consists more than 4 acres for the Walgreen's Commercial Center (Desert Ridge) on Bob Hope Drive at Dinah Shore Drive.
Washington Park; La Quinta, CA
Highway 111, Ltd
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes providing project research for field crew, reviewing title report and supporting documents, establishing property boundary, street right of way and preparing tentative map, parcel map and phasing exhibits. The project consists more than 70 acres for a commercial shopping center on Highway 111 at Washington Avenue.
Item Number: 16.
Tung Hsieh, P.E., P.L.S.
Survey Manager
4 Terra Lago East and Terra Lago West, Indio, CA
Suncal
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field works, reviewing title report and supporting documents, establishing property boundary and street right of way, designing land plan and preparing tentative maps, tract maps, phasing exhibits, ALTA Survey and easement documents. The project is occupied more than 600-acres master planned community, consisted more than 700 single family residential units, lake and golf course, located in the north of the City of Indio.
NorthStar, Palm Desert, CA
Berger Foundation
As Project Surveyor, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes processing field works, reviewing title report and supporting documents, establishing property boundary, street right of way and highway right of way and preparing tentative map, tract map, ALTA Survey and easement documents. The project is consisted more than 400-acres master planned community, consisted golf course, office, retail, hotel and condominium, located in the north of the City of Palm Desert.
Map Check, County of Imperial, CA
County of Imperial
As Assistant to Acting County Survey, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes reviewing parcel map, lot line adjustment, certificate of correction, record of survey and right of way dedication documents.
Map Check, City of Holtville, CA
City of Holtville
As Assistant to City of Holtville, Mr. Hsieh’s responsibility includes reviewing lot line adjustment and right of way dedication documents.
Item Number: 16.
Madeline Luke
Assistant Planner
www.thealtum group.com
Education:
B.S., Sustainable Business and
Environmental Studies - University of
Redlands, 2022
Qualifications:
Madeline Luke is an assistant planner with a background in planning and environmental documentation. Her experience includes work on housing, recreation, energy, and commercial projects requiring analysis under CEQA. In addition to conducting technical analysis, Ms. Luke is skilled at preparing the exhibits and mapping for projects through GIS and other graphic software. She has experience preparing analysis for technical issue areas and preparing and circulating required public noticing.
Project Experience:
Agriforce Coachella Research Center IS/MND, Coachella, CA Ms. Luke is assisting with preparation of the CEQA document for a proposed cannabis warehouse and distribution center in Riverside County. The project requires in-depth examination of both biological and cultural issues and Ms. Luke is coordinating with technical subconsultants to ensure complete analysis. She is also preparing the exhibits for the Project.
SPI 48MW Substation IS/MND, Coachella, CA
Ms. Luke is assisting with preparation of the CEQA document examining a proposed energy substation to support a proposed cannabis warehouse and distribution center in Riverside County.
3080 Norm Niver Road Feasibility Study, Thermal, CA
Ms. Luke is preparing all of the required graphics and mapping for a feasibility study examining a proposed hotel and RV park on the Torres Martinez Desert Cahuilla Indians Tribal land in Imperial County. The project site is remote, and Ms.
Luke utilized GIS to prepare site area and regional maps as a base for engineers and urban designers to use in their conceptual designs and plans.
2700 East Mesquite Golf Course Conversion, Palm Springs, CA Ms. Luke is assisting with the Due Diligence tasks for a golf course conversion project in the City of Palm Springs. This includes research for local agency and tribal regulations for the future buildout of a multi-family housing project on a now defunct municipal golf course.
54th and Jackson Multi-Family Housing IS/MND, Riverside County, CA Ms. Luke is preparing several sections of a CEQA IS/MND as well as all the required exhibits for a proposed 18.39-acre multi-family residential development in an unincorporated area of Riverside County.
Vista Chino and Gene Autry Planned Development, Palm Springs, CA Ms. Luke prepared the project justification letter and the Planned Development District application for a mixed-use project on the corner of Vista Chino and Gene Autry Drive in the City of Palm Springs. The proposed Project consists of the development of approximately 216 multi-family units on 16 acres and the development of a gas station, convenience store, and three drive-through facilities on 5 acres. The justification letter examined all applicable City regulations and codes and outlined the compatibility of the project’s various components.
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335 Hermann Design Group, Inc. was founded in 1995 in Palm Desert, California as Hermann & Associates. Our founding philosophy was to create a firm by which we are able to work on unique projects and allow for Mr. Hermann to lead the design process and build relationships with clients that will last for a lifetime.
We evaluate our clients’ distinct needs and desires through creative thinking, and we provide the right solutions for individual projects. Our design solutions always consider the sustainability of our valuable environment.
At Hermann Design Group, we are committed to wisely omitting water, also known as the “WOW” factor, with the goal of creating a positive impact on the environment from start to finish. We create sustainable design by strategically incorporating native and drought-tolerant horticulture and “smart” irrigation, in addition to utilizing local resources for materials to minimize environmental impacts.
Hermann Design Group provides the following landscape
architecture and planning services to assist public agencies and private developers in the design of outdoor environments and facilities, including:
Hermann Design Group is a healthy firm financially with no issues that would affect our ability to complete our obligations to our clients. We are profitable and strategic about our growth so that we will remain a successful enterprise.
Additionally, Hermann Design Group certifies that the firm and its principals are in good standing with all applicable licensing boards and is eligible to contract with any federal, state, or local public agency. HDG is certified as a Small Business through the State of California No. 1788893.
• Playgrounds, Parks, and
Recreation Facilities
• Golf Courses
• Natural and Historic Sites
• Streetscapes/Transportation
• Commercial/Retail/Industrial
• Hotels
• Interpretative Landscape
Design
• Master Planned Communities
• Creative Signage & Way
Finding
• Placemaking Experiences
INCORPORATED April 2009 (California S-Corporation)
PRESIDENT/CEO Chris Hermann
STAFF Nine Full-Time Employees; One Part-Time
FORMERLY Hermann & Associates
(Sole Proprietorship 1995-2009)
OFFICE LOCATIONS Palm Desert / Riverside / San Diego
HOURS OF OPERATION Monday – Friday 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
WEBSITE www.hdg-inc.com
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
FIRM PROFILE
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335 Chris is a graduate of the Pennsylvania State University and has over 40 years of experience resolving the challenges of designing in the Inland Empire and desert environment, and he is a CLARB Certified Landscape Architect. Before moving to the Coachella Valley in 1994, he was a principal at RHA Landscape Architects-Planners in Riverside, a firm he had been with for nearly ten years.
Chris is the Lead Designer and Client Relationship Manager on all projects.
CHRIS HERMANN – PRESIDENT / CEO
PRINCIPAL-IN-CHARGE / LEAD DESIGNER (PALM DESERT OFFICE) Jose is a graduate of Cal Poly Pomona with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture with a career focus on irrigation design. He has been an integral part of Hermann Design Group since 1999. His extensive experience in the preparation of construction documents and field work experience allows for a complete design process from the schematic level to final design. Jose is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, making him invaluable in the field, as well as translating during public input workshops or community meetings.
JOSE ESTRADA – VICE PRESIDENT
PRINCIPAL / DIRECTOR OF IRRIGATION DESIGN (RIVERSIDE OFFICE) Kristin heads up our quality assurance program and coordinates the diverse facets of each project. She served as the construction administrator on the Rancho Mirage Community Park Expansion, acting as a liaison between the City and the contractor from bid opening through final walk through. Kristin will provide plan checking, specification writing, and bid document preparation.
Additionally, Kristin heads our “back office” and takes care of financial and contractual elements.
KRISTIN HERMANN – CFO / MANAGING DIRECTOR
QUALITY CONTROL / SPECIFICATIONS (PALM DESERT OFFICE)
In his tenure at Hermann Design Group, Opus has become a key designer and indispensable leader with project management skills. Opus is a Cal Poly San Luis Obispo graduate who combines his understanding of plant material, maintenance, horticulture experience, and natural artistic talent with invaluable technical skill. He has comprehensive experience designing streetscapes, parks, and trailheads, in addition to residential/commercial landscapes. Opus is responsible for HDG CAD operations and systems management, providing guidance and mentorship to emerging designers.
ARMANDO “OPUS” GARZA – ASSOCIATE
SENIOR DESIGNER / PROJECT MANAGER (PALM DESERT OFFICE)
FIRM STAFFING
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335
CESAR DELGADO
DESIGNER (RIVERSIDE OFFICE)
Based in the Riverside office, Cesar joined Hermann Design Group as a designer in 2021. Upon graduating from Cal Poly Pomona with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture, Cesar has exhibited a natural inclination toward producing hand graphics, employing graphic design tools, and developing renderings. With a strong aptitude for artistry and bringing a project’s vision to life, Cesar has made meaningful contributions to the master plan community and multiple housing developments at HDG. Additionally, he is bilingual in Spanish and English.
ULICES CISNEROS
DESIGNER (PALM DESERT OFFICE)
Ulices joined the HDG team as a designer in 2022 with an Associate of Science in Horticulture and a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Cal Poly Pomona. Ulices successfully applies his knowledge of horticulture, acquired through both formal education and direct experience in the landscaping industry, to develop site plans and landscape designs. Prior to joining HDG, he worked as a designer at Ray Martin Design Corp and TKD Landscape Architecture, gaining considerable experience using various software programs such as AutoCAD, LandFX, SketchUp, Lumion, and Adobe Creative Suite. Ulices’ fluency in Spanish and English facilitates communication between HDG and their stakeholders, consultants, and community members.
FIRM STAFFING
FRANCISCO SANCHEZ
DESIGNER (PALM DESERT OFFICE)
Joining as a designer in 2020, Francisco quickly proved to be a vital asset to Hermann Design Group. With a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture from Cal Poly Pomona and a demonstrated proficiency in 3D, color, and perspective renderings, Francisco has contributed to a diverse range of projects at HDG. While focusing primarily on residential design, he also plays a role in supporting project managers and senior designers on municipal projects. Fluent in both Spanish and English, Francisco has enhanced the ability to communicate effectively with Spanish-speaking communities in the Southern California region. Francisco is also a member of The City of Palm Desert Architectural Review Committee.
PAMELA FONSECA
DESIGNER/DRAFTSPERSON (RIVERSIDE OFFICE)
Based in the Riverside office, Pamela recently joined our firm in early December 2023. Upon graduating from Cal Poly Pomona with a Bachelor of Science in Landscape Architecture in 2020, Pamela worked several years as a landscape designer specializing in 3D modeling for a pool contractor in San Dimas. Her passion for designing sustainable and functional landscapes brought her to Hermann Design Group. Pamela is bilingual in both Spanish and English, and she has exhibited a keen design sense in her time with us. Pamela is currently pursuing her Certification in Landscape Irrigation at Mt. San Antonio College.
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
CORPORATE YARD PARK
CLIENT: City of Desert Hot Springs
CLIENT ADDRESS: 65950 Pierson Boulevard
CONTACT’S NAME: Daniel Porras
CONTACT’S TITLE: Public Works Director
CONTACT’S TELEPHONE & FAX: 760-329-6411(t)
CONTACT’S EMAIL: [email protected]
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE & VALUE:
Value
Completion Date
$8,500,000
TBD
The City of Desert Hot Springs chose HDG to design a Master Plan for a football and baseball sports complex. HDG took into considerations of Junior All-American Football and American Little League Baseball Field Design Standards. The surrounding complex needed to reflect the communities needs of safety, flexibility and beauty within the City budget. Lighting plans, parking lot design, pre-engineered restrooms, utility, sun canopies and storage structure recommendations were provided to fulfill these requests effectively.
Cost estimates, Environmental services and Preliminary Engineering were completed to help create a clear idea of the potential development impact on the stakeholder concerns. Part of the conceptual design services included rendered views of the park to help engage he community on the future developments.
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335
UNIVERSITY PARK
University Park is the first mixed use master planned community in the City of Palm Desert. HDG provided landscape, site, trail and recreational amenity design within the overall master development plan. Design guidelines have been created to address the specific elements that are unique to a multi-generational community. A trail system, art walk, community center and six public parks are weaved the design to provide the community an exceptional experience of desert living. Phase One and Phase Two construction is underway. Phase Three construction documents are in progress.
CLIENT: University Park Investors, LLC
CLIENT ADDRESS: 801 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste F., Danville, CA 94526 CONTACT’S NAME: Ravi Nandwana
CONTACT’S TITLE: Principal
CONTACT’S TELEPHONE & FAX: 925-892-1218 (t)
CONTACT’S EMAIL: [email protected]
PROJECT COMPLETION DATE & VALUE:
Value
Completion Date
$10,000,000
In Progress
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335 Chris, a graduate of Pennsylvania State University,
founded Hermann Design Group in Palm Desert,
California in 1995. He has designed and overseen the
construction of both public and private development
projects throughout his career, with over 35 years of
experience working in the Coachella Valley.
Prior to founding HDG, Chris established the landscape
architecture department for CUH2A, one of the nation’s
largest multi-disciplinary architecture and engineering firms in 1983. He gained valuable experience working in collaboration with the civil engineering and architectural departments, solving a variety of design challenges.
Before becoming a Coachella Valley resident, Chris was
a principal at RHA Landscape Architects-Planners, Inc.
in Riverside, a firm he had been with for nearly ten years.
At RHA, Chris was principal in charge of schools, parks and recreation centers, commercial spaces, masterplanned communities, and other public sector work.
While recognizing the value of creating an inviting and aesthetically-pleasing environment, Chris prioritizes the conservation of natural resources and founded Hermann
Design Group upon the principle of sustainability.
In consideration of the environmental impacts of
landscape design, he implements sustainable elements
and techniques into the design process that maximize
resource efficiency.
Chris’s extensive experience working with a multitude
of municipal clients has demonstrated his keen
understanding of budgetary constraints, strict project
timelines, and the need for inclusive elements to deliver a product that meets the client’s goals from start to finish.
Mr. Hermann demonstrates HDG’s values of transparency
and integrity by facilitating effective communication
between the client, the consultant, and any applicable
stakeholders.
CHRIS HERMANN, PRESIDENT
PRINCIPAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
CLARB Certified Landscape Architect #40888
CA #2754 / AZ #54352 / NV #1058 / ID #16916 / TX #3588
CERTIFICATIONS AND LICENSING
Pennsylvania State University
B.S. Landscape Architecture
EDUCATION
CVLink
Coachella Valley Cities, CA
City of Desert Hot Springs
Corporate Yard Park
Palm Drive Entry at Interstate 10
Tedesco Park Restroom Replacement
University Park
Palm Desert, CA
City of Indio
Center Stage
Indio Sports Park Master Plan
Miles Avenue Park Master Plan
HRPP Grant Park Renovations
City of La Quinta
SilverRock Venue Site
X-Park
Fritz Burns Park Improvements
Seasons Dog Park
La Quinta Auto Collection
Rancho Mirage Community Park
Expansion & Amphitheater
Rancho Mirage, CA
Mecca Sports Complex
Mecca, CA
Thermal Community Park Master Plan
Thermal, CA
On-Call Services
City of Indio
City of La Quinta
City of Palm Desert
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS AWARDS
Ann Hunter Welborn Circle of
Excellence Award for Sustainability
San Diego Housing Commission
APWA
CV Link (with Alta)
Station 87 Dog Park
SilverRock Venue Site
Sunline Operations Transit Center
City of La Quinta Wellness Center
RESUME
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335 Mr. Estrada has steadily assumed positions of greater responsibility and leadership. Starting out as a project designer with RHA Landscape Architects-Planners, Inc. in 1994, he is now principal and vice president of Hermann Design Group, Inc.
Jose has been an integral part of Hermann Design Group since 1999, and he heads up our production office in Riverside. He has established a professional aptitude in irrigation and landscape design, and he is able to direct a project at all stages of development. His extensive experience in the preparation of construction documents and field work experience allows for a complete design process from the schematic level to final design. Jose is bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish, making him invaluable in the field. This ability to communicate in the field aids in explaining the design thought process, resulting in a more successful installation. Mr. Estrada’s ability to work independently and his attention to follow-through make him a valuable asset to any project team.
Jose has a wide diversity of experience in projects including public works projects, commercial, urban development, golf course development, and institutional projects. He is an experienced designer of LEED-certified projects.
He has provided design services for a large variety of clients throughout Southern California including the cities of Los Angeles, Perris, Menifee, Riverside, Indio, La Quinta, Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and Coachella.
Thermal Community Park Master Plan
Thermal, CA
Mecca Sports Complex
Mecca, CA
Miles Avenue Park
Indio CA
CV Link
Coachella Valley
SilverRock Venue Site
La Quinta, CA
Rancho Mirage Community Park
Expansion & Amphitheater
Rancho Mirage, CA
Corporate Yard Park
Desert Hot Springs, CA
Indio Sports Park
Indio, CA
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS
JOSE ESTRADA, VICE PRESIDENT
PRINCIPAL / DIRECTOR OF IRRIGATION
EDUCATION
Cal Poly Pomona
B.S. Landscape Architecture
RESUME
Item Number: 16.
HERMANN DESIGN GROUP
PALM DESERT OFFICE 760.777.9131 SAN DIEGO OFFICE 619.415.0095 RIVERSIDE OFFICE 951.782.9335 In his tenure at Hermann Design Group, Opus has become a key designer and indispensable leader with project management skills. Opus combines his understanding of plant material, maintenance, horticulture experience, and natural artistic talent with invaluable technical skill.
He is responsible for HDG CAD operations and systems management, providing guidance and mentorship to emerging designers. Opus has comprehensive experience designing projects in the public sector such as parks, trailheads, and capital improvement projects in addition to noteworthy commercial and residential developments.
When Alta Planning + Design contacted us in 2015 to assist locally with the landscape design of the CVLink, Opus worked alongside Chris Hermann on the design work, eventually taking over as the lead contact for with Alta. Also starting in 2015, Opus has served as the project manager for the improvements included in the City of La Quinta’s multi-year North Landscape and Lighting District Renovation Plan. In his role as project manager, Opus has produced numerous turf removal and landscape redesign plans for various basins, streetscapes, parkways, and medians throughout La Quinta. Several of these projects include Rancho Ocotillo, Acacia, Del Oro, Quinterra, and Highlands. His experience overseeing long-term city-wide capital improvement projects has provided him with the knowledge necessary to maximize project efficiency and create a sense of design cohesion.
OPUS GARZA, ASSOCIATE
SENIOR DESIGNER / PROJECT MANAGER
EDUCATION
Cal Poly San Luis Obispo
B.S. Landscape Architecture
Center Stage
Indio, CA
Miles Avenue Park
Indio, CA
Indio Sports Park
Indio, CA
Median Improvements
Indio, CA
South Jackson Park
Indio, CA
Station 87 Dog Park
Indio, CA
Hjorth Park
indio, CA
CVLINK
Coachella, CA
South Jackson Park
Indio, CA
X-Park
La Quinta, CA
REPRESENTATIVE PROJECTS
RESUME
Item Number: 16.
1 Firm Profile
domusstudio architecture is an award-winning design firm, formed in 1986 as Dominy + Associates Architects, based on a philosophy to maintain close participation in projects and produce quality design. Lew Dominy, retired founding Principal, with Partners Wayne Holtan, David Pfeifer, John Pyjar, David Keitel and Jon Dominy have experience both at large and small-office levels; as a result, domusstudio provides large firm experience and small firm service. domusstudio architecture has won over seventy design awards and competitions. We are problem solvers, known widely for working with minimal space and budgets to address the needs of the client within the constraints they have.
Our talented staff, including the five principals and a support staff of 13 are dedicated to achieving your goals. Each staff member is skilled in different disciplines to meet all of our clients’ needs.
Establishing long-term relationships with our clients and focusing on owneroccupied structures is our mission. This enables us to work closely with our clients, so that we may better understand their needs. A commitment to quality design, well-orchestrated teamwork, budget accuracy, and client satisfaction forms the backbone of our practice. The great number of clients who commission our firm with second, third, and even fourth projects prove these principles work.
Our project types vary, requiring fresh, creative solutions to different kinds of challenges. Our experience ranges in many types of facilities including recreational facilities, fire stations, liturgical work (Non-Profits), educational, office buildings, libraries and custom residential. We believe this variety helps us maintain innovation and efficiency in all our work.
Because the majority of our clients are institutional and those that keep their buildings for very long life cycles, we have been sensitive to practicing sustainable design principles for many years - long before LEED buildings became in vogue.
We work closely with our clients to insure our best cost effective use of these principles, whether they decide to actually formally certify it or not.
Our Team is actively working on a variety of projects that are in various stages of the design process. Our company workload is ever changing and dynamic, therefore our staff and management have become flexible in managing various project workload and schedule requirements.
We consciously strive to make each project better than the last. There is always excitement about the projects under construction and new projects in the design stages. Our Principals and staff are committed to make the process of architecture as well as the product, an enjoyable and successful experience for everyone involved.
Item Number: 16.
Carlsbad Fire Station #2
HONOR AWARD (STRUCTURES): 2023 American Public Works Association (APWA) San Diego & Imperial Counties Chapter
Mater Dei Catholic Church
ORCHID AWARD FOR PEOPLE’S CHOICE: 2021 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program San Diego City College Early Education Center
HONOR AWARD (STRUCTURES): 2021 American Public Works Association South Mission Beach Lifeguard Station
OUTSTANDING CONSTRUCTION PROJECT: 2021 ASCE San Diego Section HONOR AWARD (STRUCTURES): 2020 American Public Works Association Sacred Heart Catholic Parish
RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE & ART AWARD: 2020 The American Institute of Architects / Faith and Form Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
ARCHITECTURE MERIT AWARD: 2020 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter RELIGIOUS ARCHITECTURE AND ART DESIGN AWARD The American Institute of Architects / Faith and Form Child Development Center MCAGCC Twenty- nine Palms SAME BUILT PROJECT - MERIT AWARD: 2020 SAME Architectural Practice Community of Interest domusstudio architecture Office
ORCHID AWARD FOR ARCHITECTURE: 2018 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program ORCHID AWARD FOR PEOPLE’S CHOICE: 2018 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program MERIT AWARD 2018 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter San Dieguito United Methodist Church
LITURGICAL/ INTERIOR DESIGN AWARD: 2018 The American Institute of Architects / Faith and Form Encinitas Fire Station #2
MERIT AWARD : 2017 Concrete Masonry Association of California and Nevada Imperial Beach Library
ORCHID AWARD FOR ARCHITECTURE: 2017 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program ENERGY EFFICIENCY DESIGN AWARD: 2017 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter First Presbyterian Church of Burbank
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD: 2014 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter Encinitas Fire Station #2
SPECIAL RECOGNITION AWARD: 2014 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter Balboa Park Centennial Gate Competition
HONOR AWARD : 2013 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter Platinum Beach House
RESIDENTIAL MERIT AWARD : 2013 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter GOLDEN NUGGET AWARD Pacific Builder’s Conference
Coronado Bridge Tube
UNBUILT AWARD : 2013 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter St. Therese of Carmel Parish Hall
AWARD OF MERIT IN BUILDINGS & STRUCTURES: 2012 American Society of Civil Engineers San Diego Section La Quinta Fire Station #32
PROJECT OF MERIT AWARD FOR PUBLIC SAFETY FACILITIES: 2011 American Public Works Department, Coachella Valley Chapter La Jolla Farms Residence
FEATURE ARTICLE AND COVER: 2011 San Diego Home/Garden Lifestyles The Village Church
LILY AWARD: 2011 Rancho Santa Fe Association
PEOPLES CHOICE AWARD IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING: 2011 Structural Engineering Association of San Diego Recognition and Awards
CORONADO BRIDGE BICYCLE PEDESTRIAN TUBE IRVINE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH domusstudio architecture
DOMUSSTUDIO ARCHITECTURE OFFICE MATER DEI CATHOLIC CHURCH ENCINITAS FIRE STATION #2 Item Number: 16.
Recognition and Awards
PLAYA DEL SUR RESIDENCE
domusstudio architecture
Encinitas Fire Station No. 3
PROJECT OF THE YEAR $2M-$5M: 2010 McGraw Hill Construction Best of Awards AWARD OF MERIT IN THE CIVIL & PUBLIC WORKS CATEGORY: 2009 American Public Works Department, San Diego Chapter Scripps Canyon House
CUSTOM CONTEMPORARY HOME OF THE YEAR (SILVER): 2009 Dream Home Awards RANCH AND COAST HOME OF THE YEAR: 2010 Ranch and Coast Magazine St. Augustine High School
DESIGN COMPETITION 2009: AWARD OF PROJECT San Diego, California La Canada Presbyterian Church
BUILDING OF AMERICA AWARD: 2008 National Real Estate &Construction Review Feldman Residence
BATHROOM OF THE YEAR: 2009 San Diego Home & Garden
WindanSea Townhomes
BEST MULTI-FAMILY LIVING WESTERN U.S. (GOLD): 2009 Dream Home Awards MERIT AWARD FOR RESIDENTIAL DESIGN: 2009 Concrete Masonry Association of California and Nevada DESIGN AWARD OF MERIT: 2008 National Concrete Masonry Association Malibu Presbyterian Church
DESIGN COMPETITION 2008: AWARD OF PROJECT Malibu Presbyterian Church, Malibu, CA St. Peters Church
DESIGN COMPETITION 2008: AWARD OF PROJECT St. Peter’s Presbyterian Church, Rancho Palos Verdes Hope Chapel
DESIGN COMPETITION 2007: AWARD OF PROJECT Hope Chapel, El Segundo, CA Cardiff Residence
HOME OF THE YEAR: 2005 San Diego Home & Garden
Valley Center Branch Library
CITATION AWARD: 2004 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter 1st Congregational Church of Long Beach
PRESERVATION AWARD: 2004 Long Beach Heritage
COMMENDATION AWARD: 2004 County of Los Angeles
CERTIFICATE OF RECOGNITION: 2004 California State Assembly, Senate and Long Beach City Council Encinitas Fire Station No. 5
BEST NORTH COAST FIRE STATION: 2003 San Diego Architectural Guide Geneva Presbyterian Church
“ARCHITECTURE OF THE GODS BOOK II”: 2002 Featured in the publication Michael Crosbie Playa Del Sur Residence
SAN DIEGO HOME/GARDEN LIFESTYLES: 2003 Featured in the September 2003 Issue MERIT AWARD: 2003 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter GOLD AWARD for CUSTOM HOME BUILDING: 2002 Home Book Design Awards 10th Street Railroad Cottages
ORCHID FOR HISTORICAL PRESERVATION: 2002 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program Bluesky Ecological Reserve
BEST UN-BUILT DESIGN: 2002 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter
IMPERIAL BEACH LIBRARY SCRIPPS CANYON HOUSE SOUTH MISSION BEACH LIFEGUARD STATION SAN DIEGUITO UNITED METHODIST CHURCH Item Number: 16.
Recognition and Awards
IMPERIAL BEACH LIBRARY
domusstudio architecture
John Pyjar, Principal of domusstudio
YOUNG ARCHITECT OF THE YEAR AWARD: 2001 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter
First Lutheran Church of San Diego
MILLENNIUM DESIGN AWARD: 2000 Faith & Form Magazine Forum on Religion, Art & Architecture “ARCHITECTURE FOR THE GODS BOOK II”: 2002 Featured in the publication by Michael Crosbie Irvine Presbyterian Church
AWARD FOR EXCELLENCE: 1999 Structural Engineers Association of San Diego TOUR OF FOUR CHURCHES: 1999 The Museum of Architecture
MERIT AWARD: 1998 National Commercial Builders Association DESIGN COMPETITION: 1994 First Place Award of Project
St. Johns Episcopal Church
ORCHID FOR ARCHITECTURE: 1999 San Diego Orchids and Onions Awards GRAND PRIZE: 1998 Chula Vista Beautification Awards
St. Andrews by the Sea
TOUR OF FOUR CHURCHES: 1999 The Museum of Architecture
Whittier United Methodist Church
WHITTIER BEAUTIFUL AWARD: 1998 Whittier Chamber of Commerce St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church
EXCELLENCE IN STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING: 1998 Structural Engineers Association of San Diego GRAND ORCHID AWARD: 1997 San Diego Orchids & Onions Program ORCHID FOR ARCHITECTURE: 1997
ORCHID FOR INTERIORS: 1997
ORCHID FOR LANDSCAPING: 1997
ORCHID FOR LIGHTING: 1997
CITATION AWARD: 1997 The American Institute of Architects San Diego Chapter GRAND AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: 1996 National Commercial Builders Council
First United Methodist Church
BEAUTIFICATION AWARD: 1995 City of Chula Vista
Vasquez Residence
HOME OF THE YEAR AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: 1993 San Diego Home & Garden Magazine Firefighter Training Tower
BEAUTIFICATION AWARD: 1993 City of Chula Vista
Lynberg Residence
AWARD OF MERIT: 1992 Brick Institute of California
McMahan’s Headquarters
AWARD OF EXCELLENCE: 1991 Building Industry Association Commercial Council DOMUSSTUDIO ARCHITECTURE OFFICE ST. AUGUSTINE HIG SCHOOL LA JOLLA FARMS RESIDENCE SACRED HEART CATHOLIC PARISH Item Number: 16.
Resume domusstudio architecture
domusstudio PROJECTS
GOVERNMENT / CIVIC
Imperial Beach Library
Borrego Springs Library (RFP)
Camp Pendleton CDC, NAVFAC
Twentynine Palms CDC, NAVFAC
Chollas Heights CDC, NAVFAC
Lemoore NAS CDC, NAVFAC
Point Loma CDC, NAVFAC
Alvarado Laboratory, City of San Diego
COMMERCIAL
McMahon Office Building
EduCATIONAL
Francis Parker School
Cathedral Catholic High School
STEM Building
City College Child Development Center
Botanical Garden Education and Event Pavilion
SDSU Children’s Center
Country Montessori Preschool, K-8
Christ Lutheran Church School, K-8
Bayview Baptist Preschool
Encinitas Country Day School
Bethel Seminary
DEVELOPMENT
Coachella Residential Development
Vista Chino Mixed Use Palm Springs
RELIGIOuS
Christ Presbyterian Church
First Chinese Baptist Church of Los Angeles
Sacred Heart Catholic Parish
Ministry Center Office Building Renovation &
New Parish Hall Building
Foothills United Methodist Church
Geneva Presbyterian Church
Linda Vista 2nd Baptist Church
St. Bartholomews Episcopal Church
St. James Presbyterian Church
Evangelical Formosan Church
College Avenue Baptist Church
Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church
Rancho Bernardo Presbyterian Church
Bayview Baptist Church
St. Elizabeth Seton Catholic Church
Chula Vista United Methodist Church
Irvine Presbyterian Church
St. John’s Episcopal Church
Valley Christian Presbyterian Church
RESIdENTIAL
Windandsea Beach Homes
The Harvey Residences
Waite Residence
Askew Residence
Houston Residence
Lynberg Residence
Newman Residence
Byrd Residence
Triangle House (Dominy Residence)
Freyss Residence
McGuire Residence
Scripps Canyon House
Alkhas Residence
Richmond/Hopkins Residence
Shiff Residence
SENIOR hOuSING
City Heights Senior Residences
Potiker Family Senior Residences
SDSU Campus Ministry-Wesley House
Linda Vista Senior Housing
ThE PACIFIC GROuP ARChITECTuRE &
PLANNING
Olivenhain Residential Development
Experience
domusstudio
2001- present Principal
1996-2001 Associate Principal
1989-1996 Project Job Captain / Project Architect
The Pacific Group Architecture and Planning
1989 Project Manager
Albert Shen, Inc., Austin, Texas
1985-1989
Project Manager, Construction Firm
License
Architect, California C23885
LEED AP
Education
University of Texas at Austin
Bachelor of Architecture, 1985
Organizations
American Institute of Architects
AWARDS
APWA Honor Award, City College CDC, 2021
IFRAA, Sacred Heart Catholic Parish, 2020
SAME Design Award, CDC Twentynine Palms, 2020
SAME Award for Sustainability, CDC Twentynine Palms, 2020 AIA Merit Award, Orchid, 2800 Third Avenue, 2018
National IFRAA Award 2018
San Dieguito UMC
AIA Merit Award, Imperial Beach Library, 2017
NCMA, 2008 Design Award of Merit
Windansea Beach Homes
Architecture for the Gods, Book II by Michael Crosbie
Geneva Presbyterian Church
Oliver McMillan Young Architect of the Year, 2001
San Diego Chapter, AIA
Merit Award San Diego Chapter, AIA
Triangle House
Honor Award San Diego Chapter, AIA
Irvine Presbyterian Church
Brick in Architecture 1993 Merit Award
Lynberg Residence
John Pyjar, A.I.A.
Principal
With over 34 years of experience in
coordination of both new construction
and renovation projects utilizing various
CAD and BIM software, John will play
an important role in the charrette
and conceptual development of the
architectural elements. He will bring a
comprehensive approach and technical/
BIM aptitude to the team. He will lead the
project team with the initial BIM standards
and protocol. Involved throughout
all phases of the project, John assists
the project team with design and
detailing, field verification, production
of construction documents, coordination
with consultants, and construction
administration. His strong technical
aptitude and detailing experience play
out in the areas of building systems
integration, equipment coordination, and
construction administration where he is
highly involved in both the field related
and administrative construction activities
to maintain the design consistency from
start to finish.
Item Number: 16.
Resume domusstudio architecture
domusstudio PROJECTS
CIVIC
City of Carlsbad Fire Station #2
Encinitas Fire Station #2
City of San Diego, South Mission Beach
Lifeguard Station
Solana Beach Marine Safety Center
La Quinta Fire Station #32
Encinitas Fire Station#3
UCSD/ City of SD Fire Station Feasibility
Concept Study
Murrieta Fire Station #1
Encinitas Fire Station #5
Carlsbad Fire Station No. 5
Storage Building Waterproofing
Casa Del Prado Building Assessment
City of San Diego Alvarado Lab Improvements
Feasibility Study and Bridging Documents
Carlsbad Master Agreement
City of San Diego Master Agreement
Port of San Diego As-Needed Agreement
UCSD Master Agreement
San Diego Unified Port District Annex Restrooms
San Diego Unified Port District Wellness Center
New Village Arts Theater Roofing/Refurbishment
Carlsbad Senior Center Roofing/Refurbishment
UCSD Birch Aquarium Roofing/Refurbishment
Carlsbad Safety Center RFP -
short listed Design Build Team
County of San Diego Libraries,
5 Branches-Marketplace
EduCaTIOnaL
Muirlands Middle School
UCHS Child Development Center
La Jolla Elementary School Whole Site Modernization
Correia Middle School
UCHS Career College Technical Design Studio
City College - Child Development Center
Old Town Academy Charter School
Museum Charter School
Civita Elementary School - Sustainable Campus
Standley Park Aquatic Center Joint Use Facilities
Francis Parker Aquatic Center
University City High School Modernization
University City High School Track and Field
University City High School Athletic Facilities
University City High School Master Plan
Francis Parker School - Dining Center
Balboa Elementary School Whole Site Modernization
School for the Creative & Performing Arts-
TV Studio / Classroom
Audubon Elementary Modernization
UCSD Dive Locker Room
UCSD MTF and BSD Densification Project
UCSD Social Sciences Research Building
RR Upgrade
UCSD Cognitive Science Building RR Upgrade
UCSD Mandeville Center
UCSD McGill / Mandler Hall Accessibility &
Feasibility Study
San Diego Jewish Academy - Early Childhood Center
Health Sciences High & Middle College Charter School
Whitman Elementary
SDSU Campus Ministry - Wesley House
Centerpointe Presbyterian Church Preschool
Faith Presbyterian Church Preschool
St. Matthew’s Anglican Church Preschool
St. John’s Episcopal Church RSM, Church & School
Experience
domusstudio
2001 - present Principal
1995 - 2001 Associate Principal
1993 - 1995 Project Architect
Hedenkamp & Associates
1981 - 1993 Associate
KMA
1979 -1981
License
Architect, California, 1981
Education
University of Minnesota
Bachelor of Architecture, 1977
Bachelor of Environmental Design, 1977
ORGANIZATIONS & Community service
American Institute of Architects
Master Commissioner - California Architects Board
Tierrasanta Community Development Committee
Tierrasanta Community Plan Exploration Committee
AWARDS
Encinitas Fire Station #2 - Concrete Masonry Award 2017 Encinitas Fire Station #2 - AIA Special Recognition Award 2014 Encinitas Fire Station #3- McGraw-Hill Best of 2009 Award San Diego Orchid, 1999
St. John’s Episcopal Church of Chula Vista
Grand Prize- Chula Vista Beautification Awards
St. John’s Episcopal Church of Chula Vista
Richard Welsh Memorial Award, 1998
St. John’s Episcopal Church of Chula Vista
Chula Vista Beautification Award, 1996
Chula Vista Presbyterian Church
Chula Vista Beautification Award, 1995
First United Methodist Church
Wayne Holtan, A.I.A.
Principal in Charge
Wayne has over 40 years experience in
the planning, design and construction
of complex projects. With broad
ranging architectural experience, he
has specialized expertise in educational
buildings, master planning, and public
buildings. His management skills lends
itself to multi-discipline project teams.
Wayne’s success has been based on
user and project team integration during
the full design/construction process. He
has extensive experience in facilitating
the design process, technical knowledge
for the document generation, problem
solving during the construction phase
administration, and communication skills
for client interaction at all phases. Wayne
will coordinate the overall design team
and design process.
Item Number: 16.
Tommy has experience with both private
sector architecture firms in addition to
public sector practice with the Unified Port
of San Diego prior to joining the studio
in 2014. Tommy collaborates within the
studio on a broad range of projects with a
specialty in Revit and other design related
computer software/BIM. Coordinating
design concepts extensively with multiple
software applications, he works to
communicate the design intent beyond
the traditional architectural drawings for
clarity with both the design team and
clients. He attained his license as an
architect in California in October 2015.
Tommy Ross, Architect
Project Manager
domusstudio PROJECTS
CIVIC
Carlsbad Fire Station #2
UCSD Fire Station Feasibility Study
Carlsbad Fire Station No. 5 Storage Building
Waterproofing
UCSD Birch Aquarium Roofing/Refurbishment
Carlsbad Senior Center Roofing/Refurbishment
New Village Arts Theater Roofing/Refurbishment
San Diego Botanic Garden
EDUCATIONAL
UCSD Taco Villa Restaurant
UCSD Medical Teaching Facility Densification
UCSD Social Sciences + Research Building
Accessibility Upgrades
UCSD Cognitive Science Building
Accessibility Upgrades
UCSD Mandeville Theater Renovation
UCSD McGill / Mandler Hall Accessibility &
Feasibility Study
Civita Elementary School
University City High School Career College
Technical Design Studio and Workshop
St. Augustine High School
New Performing Arts Center
New Athletic Facilities and Gymnasium
RELIGIOUS
Hope Chapel Hermosa Beach
Mater Dei Parish
St. Andrews Newport Beach
St. Rose of Lima
Gloria Dei Lutheran Church
Pacific Coast Church Feasibility Study
RESIDENTIAL
Skyline Village Senior Residence
Altman Residence
Ostertag Residence
Kelleher Residence
DOUGHERTY + DOUGHERTY ARCHITECTS LLP
Corona del Mar High School Little Theater
Harrington Elementary School, Oxnard
Oxnard Middle School Modernizations
Norwalk - La Mirada Kitchen Modernizations
EXPERIENCE
domusstudio
2023 - Present Associate
2018 - 2023 Project Manager
2015 - 2018 Project Architect
2014 - 2015 Job Captain
Dougherty + Dougherty Architects, LLP
2013-2014 Job Captain / Designer
Gerald R. Kesler, Inc. Architects
2014 Drafting / Revit Contracting
Unified Port of San Diego
2011-2013 Staff Assistant Engineering and Construction
LICENSE
Architect, California, 2015
EDUCATION
Newschool of Architecture
Master of Architecture, 2012
Alpha Beta Kappa Honor Society, 2012
Dean’s List and President’s List, 2009-2010,2010-2011
University of California San Diego
Bachelor of Arts, History, 2009
ORGANIZATIONS & COMMUNITY SERVICE
The Green Schoolhouse Series - Carlsbad
Habitat for Humanity - San Diego
ICLEI: Local Government for Sustainability
Resume
Item Number: 16.
Resume domusstudio architecture
Michael Meizen, Architect
Project Manager
Michael grew up in Wisconsin
and Maryland, attended Cal Poly,
SLO and studied a year abroad in
Copenhagen. His experience includes
sacred, educational, affordable
housing, custom residential, corporate
architecture, and commercial
development. Michael is a California
registered architect, member of the
American Institute of Architects, chair of
the AIA San Diego Committee on the
Environment (COTE), and serves as an
SME for the CAB supplemental exam.
He is passionate about the architectural
process and creating purposeful,
contextual, and holistic design.
EXPERIENCE
domusstudio
2022 - Present Project Manager
2017 - 2022 Project Architect
Ware Malcomb
2016 - 2017 Job Captain
LSM
2012-2016 Architect III, Head of Recruiting
Architecture by Design
2011-2012 Staff Designer
LICENSE
Architect, California, 2019
Architect, Maryland, 2016
EDUCATION
California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo Bachelor of Architecture, 2011
Danish Institute for Study Abroad, Copenhagen
4th Year Design, 2009-10
AWARDS
Covington City Center, DC
Architectural Record Good Design is Good Business 2016
AIA DC Merit Award 2016
ORGANIZATIONS & COMMUNITY SERVICE
American Institute of Architects (AIA)
AIA SD COTE Chair (2022-Present)
National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB) California Supplemental Exam (CSE) Subject Matter Expert (2019-Present) District of Columbia Building Industry Association (DCBIA) Design Team Lead / Volunteer, 2012-2015
Washington Building Council, 2015
Studio Lecture Series, 2014-15
Leading Thoughts on Leadership
Profit & Ethics
National Society of Collegiate Scholars (NSCS), 2006-11 Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru), 2006-11
Chumash Committee - 5th year show, 2011
California State University International Programs Selection Committee, 2011 California Polytechnic University Tenure Track Faculty Search Committee, 2011 Wildflower Triathalon - Committee, 2009 / Volunteer, 2007-08 domusstudio PROJECTS
GOVERNMENT / CIVIC
Alvarado Laboratory, City of San Diego
DEVELOPMENT
Coachella Residential Development
Vista Chino Mixed Use Palm Springs
RELIGIOUS
Church at the Red Door, Indio
St. Paul’s Cathedral
Communion Church
Summit Point Church
Our Lady of Mount Carmel
First Presbyterian Church, San Diego
Christ our Savior Catholic Parish
Master Dei Catholic Parish
St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church
Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Hawaii
St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Hawaii
EDUCATIONAL
Cathedral Catholic High School
STEM Building
St. Augustine High School
New Athletic Facilities and Gymnasium
PSA Memorial
Ceramics Lab
COMMERICAL
3930 Fourth Ave
Legal Aid Society of San Diego
RESIDENTIAL
Piacentini Residence
Casa de las Campanas
Item Number: 16.
Appendix
Hourly Rates
Ds
Item Number: 16.
44-600 Village Court, Suite 100
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-4750 Tel
Staff Member Hourly Rate
Principal $210.00
Director $189.00
Senior Project Manager $183.00
Project Manager $175.00
Assistant Project Manager $163.00
Senior Associate $152.00
Associate $135.00
Assistant $110.00
Project Coord/Technician $92.00
Administrative Assistant/Clerical $65.00
Intern $42.00
Utility Location, GIS and Drone Services:
Mobilization - 1st Hour $165.00
1-Man Crew - Non Prevailing $100.00
2-Man Crew - Non Prevailing $189.00
1-Man Crew - Prevailing $138.00
2-Man Crew - Prevailing $275.00
Survey Services:
Survey Crew - Non Prevailing $245.00
Survey Crew - Prevailing $295.00
Survey Crew Rates:
Hourly rates include standard 2-man crew, 1-man robotic crew and 1-man GPS crew.
A two-hour minimum applies for all field services.
Reimbursables Expenses:
Mileage is billed at IRS business rate plus 15%
Printing, reproduction, etc. are billed at direct cost plus 15% Altum's Schedule of Hourly Rates is subject to change based on an annual review of the cost of living and employee wage increases. In the event Altum's Schedule of Hourly Rates changes, a corresponding percentage increase shall be applied to all remaining Agreement budgets and such Schedule of Hourly Rates shall apply to subsequent Extra Work. If Consultant works in excess of 8.0 hours in a day or 40.0 hours in a week at Client direction, overtime rates will apply.
2024 SCHEDULE OF HOURLY RATES
F:\rate schedule\2024 Schedule of Hourly Rates - CA1
Item Number: 16.
NORMAL HOURLY RATES
Principal Landscape Architect/Principal Planner $195.00 per hour Construction Manager 165.00 per hour
Landscape Architect 150.00 per hour
Project Manager/Associate 135.00 per hour
Irrigation Designer 135.00 per hour
Senior Designer 125.00 per hour
Professional Staff/Specification Writer 105.00 per hour Designer 95.00 per hour
Draftsperson 85.00 per hour
Administrative Staff 75.00 per hour
OUTSIDE CONSULTANTS
Services of outside consultants not listed in this proposal, at our direct cost, plus 15% of the actual cost of their services for coordination.
REIMBURSABLES
Reimbursable items, such as the cost of reprographics, soil samples, and travel required outside the Coachella Valley will be charged at our cost plus 15% within the allowances provided in the fee breakdowns.
RATE INCREASES
Due to increases in wages/benefits, fees and hourly rates are subject to an annual increase based on the Consumer Price Index (CPI-U) published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Item Number: 16.
Principals: Jonathan Dominy AIA | Wayne Holtan AIA | David Keitel AIA | David Pfeifer AIA | John Pyjar AIA 2800 Third Avenue, San Diego, California 92103 | 619.692.9393 | domusstudio.com Hourly Billing Classification Rates Schedule
Effective as of January 2023
CLASSIFICATION PERSONNEL HOURLY RATE
Principal Jonathan Dominy AIA
Wayne Holtan AIA
David Keitel AIA
David Pfeifer AIA | LEED AP
John Pyjar AIA | LEED AP
$220
Associate Lisa D’Ambrosia AIA
Tommy Ross AIA
$195
Project Manager Rachel Barnhart
Michael D. Meizen AIA
Luis Ramirez
Kellie Terrell | LEED AP
$165
Project Architect Toni Pyjar $140
Designer/Job Captain Yohannes Abebe
Michael Cintron, AIA Associate Member
Kayleigh Cornejo, AIA Associate Member
Joseph Fleener
Uros Milikic
$110
Business Administrator John Topete $105
EEO Provisions: domusstudio architecture is an equal opportunity employer and makes employment decisions on the basis of merit. We want to have the best available persons in every job. Company policy prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, creed, gender, religion, marital status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition including genetic characteristics, or any other consideration made unlawful by federal, state, or local laws. All such discrimination is unlawful.
Our Company is committed to compliance with all applicable laws providing equal employment opportunities. This commitment applies to all persons involved in the operations of the Company and prohibits unlawful discrimination by any staff member of the Company, including Principals, Associates and outside Consultants.
Item Number: 16.
For more information visit us at:
www.thealtumgroup.com
Texas Board of Professional Engineers and
Land Surveyors Firm #10194593
Texas Registered Engineering Firm
#F-22130
10421 Gulfdale Street
San Antonio, TX 78216
(726) 232-0963
Texas
California Department of General Services
Small Business Enterprise #1107100
Company Headquarters
44-600 Village Court, Suite 100
Palm Desert, CA 92260
(760) 346-4750
California
PLANNING | URBAN DESIGN | ENGINEERING | SURVEY | ENVIRONMENTAL Item Number: 16.
Proposal For:
PROFESSIONAL ON-CALL
ENVIRONMENTAL AND
PLANNING SERVICES
CATEGORY 3: ENVIRONMENTAL
AND PLANNING SERVICES
Submitted To:
CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS
Community Development Department
ATTN: Travis Clark
Community Development Director
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
[email protected]
Submittal Date:
May 30, 2024
Submitted By:
CASC ENGINEERING AND
CONSULTING, INC.
Frank Coyle
Director of Planning
77564 County Club Drive, Suite 211
Palm Desert, CA 92211
[email protected]
C: (909) 362-7645
Item Number: 16.
COVER LETTER 2 – 3
PROPOSER STATEMENT OF QUALIFICATIONS -
COMPANY OVERVIEW 4 - 7
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART 8
TASK OVERVIEW 9
PROJECT TEAM RESUMES 10 - 15
SUBCONSULTANT OVERVIEWS 16
OVERVIEW OF RELEVANT EXPERIENCE 17
PROJECT EXPERIENCES 18 - 23
REFERENCES 24
COST SCHEDULE -
TEAM HOURLY RATES 25
STANDARD HOURLY RATE SHEET 26
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1 Item Number: 16.
2024-0086 City of Desert Hot Springs
77-564 Country Club Drive, Suite 211
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Office: 760.259.0108
Fax: 760.772.4264
www.cascinc.com
May 30, 2024
City of Desert Hot Springs
Attn: Travis Clark, Community Development Director
Community Development Department
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
E: [email protected]
Subject: REQUEST FOR QUALIFICATIONS (RFQ) FOR PROFESSIONAL ON-CALL ENVIRONMENTAL AND PLANNING SERVICES (CATEGORY 3)
Dear Mr. Clark,
Casc Engineering and Consulting, Inc. (Casc), a California S corporation, is pleased to provide the enclosed Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for “Professional On-Call Environmental and Planning Services (Category 3 – Planning and Environmental Services)” to the City of Desert Hot Springs Community Development Department (“City”). Casc understands that the City desires to team with competent and qualified firms to provide planning and environmental-related services that include, but is not limited to updating the City’s general plan updates, zoning code, land use/zoning map updates, specific plans or other area specific planning documents, compiling demographic and economic data, and sitespecific planning and environmental support for specific development projects.
As California continues to prioritize local production goals, significant growth is expected within the City which will create tremendous opportunities and possibilities to the Desert community. Casc is very excited with the opportunity to serve the City in this next phase of its vision for the future, and we are confident that our team collaboration, research, and intimate knowledge of Southern California will offer the City a consultant team that will successfully implement City-wide goals to ensure that each new development project (neighborhoods, commercial centers, mixed-use developments, and office/industrial developments) enhances the character and quality, long-term value, and ultimately the quality of life of the Desert community.
In partnership with NUVIS Landscape Architecture and The Natelson Dale Group, we will deliver planning-related services that will assist the City in achieving its vision to transform from a small town to a medium-sized City with walkable neighborhoods, tied together by multi-modal transportation corridors and interspersed with vibrant districts for shopping, working, entertaining, and commerce. Our comprehensive urban design and planning experience makes us a great fit and we feel that we are uniquely qualified to perform the requested services as exhibited in the City’s RFQ.
The Point-of-Contact will be our Director of Planning, Frank Coyle, who has over 35 years of experience in urban and regional planning, and has successfully managed over 45 on-call planning and environmental agreements throughout Southern California. This includes on-call contracts with the cities of Palm Springs, Indio, Temecula, Hemet, Vista Santa Rosa, La Quinta, Moreno Valley, Murrieta, San Jacinto, and the counties of Riverside and San Bernardino.
Casc’s branch office in Palm Desert is located only 30 minutes from the City of Desert Hot Springs City Hall and our corporate office in Colton is located approximately 1 hour from City Hall. Thus, our locations offer a uniquely efficient hub with access to the City when needed. In closing, Casc looks forward to serving the City of Desert Hot Springs. If you have any questions, our Director of Planning, Mr. Coyle may be reached by phone at (909) 362-7645, or by email at [email protected]. • Casc acknowledges receipt of the Q&A and the revised RFQ dated May 16, 2024. • Casc exceptions to the Sample Agreement are detailed on the following page.
Sincerely,
CASC ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING CASC ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING Michelle E. Furlong Frank Coyle
Operations Manager (Authorized to Bind) Director of Planning (Day-to-day contact) 2 Item Number: 16.
2024-0086 City of Desert Hot Springs
77-564 Country Club Drive, Suite 211
Palm Desert, CA 92211
Office: 760.259.0108
Fax: 760.772.4264
www.cascinc.com
CASC EXCEPTIONS
Casc has reviewed the Professional Services Agreement included in the RFP and would like to propose the following exceptions to Section 17 (a) on page 25, highlighted in red font.
Section 17. INDEMNIFICATION
a. Contractor shall defend, indemnify and hold harmless the City, its officials, agents, employees and volunteers from and against any and all claims, demands, actions, losses, damage, injuries, and liability, direct or indirect (including any and all costs, expenses and attorneys’ fees in connection therewith), arising out of the negligent or willful misconduct during the performance of this Agreement, except for any such claim arising out of the sole negligence, recklessness, or willful misconduct of the City, its officials, agents, employees or volunteers.
3 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
COMPANY OVERVIEW AND
QUALIFICATIONS
FIRM PROFILE
Casc Engineering and Consulting, Inc. (Casc), a California S corporation, was established in 1993 to provide professional consulting services to a variety of industry sectors. Casc is a mid-sized consulting firm that combines the personal touch of a small firm, with the stability of the large publicly-traded consulting conglomerates. As a mid-sized consulting firm, we provide the personal service of project managers who stay with your project from start to finish, combined with the breadth and depth of capabilities characteristic of larger firms to meet the City’s project requirements. Our project managers are empowered to be problem solvers with the ability to make decisions in a timely fashion to maintain project momentum. We are proud of our low employee turnover; our staff’s long tenure means the project manager you see at the bidding stage will likely be with you at project completion.
Casc was established to provide Professional Planning, Environmental, Water Quality, Land Survey, and Civil Engineering to small and large municipal and agencies within the public sector throughout Southern California. Casc has served a wide variety of municipal clients within Riverside, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Bernardino counties, with services including but not limited to Environmental Planning, CEQA/NEPA Practitioner Services, Contract Planning, Environmental Regulatory Compliance, General Plan Amendments, Development Code Updates, Plan Check Services, Municipal Water Quality Inspection, document preparation, and management in compliance with the Clean Water Act and Municipal Storm Water Permits. Casc is a certified SBE firm #1440120.
SERVICES PROVIDED AND AVAILABLE
Casc provides a variety of services to our Public Agency Partners, which includes, but is not limited to:
FIRM HIGHLIGHTS
BUSINESS STATUS
Established in 1993
(30 years in business)
S-Corporation
CONTRACTUAL ACTIONS
Richard J. Sidor, President
(909) 783-0101 ext. 5328
E: [email protected]
Michelle E. Furlong, Operations
Manager (Authority to Bind)
(909) 783-0101 ext. 5460
E: [email protected]
DAY-TO-DAY CONTACT
Frank Coyle, Director of Planning
(909) 362-7645
E: [email protected]
OFFICE LOCATIONS
Corporate Office:
1470 E. Cooley Dr.
Colton, CA 92324
(909) 783-0101
Total Full-Time Staff: 75+
Desert Office:
77564 Country Club Drive, Suite 211
Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 259-0108
Temecula / San Diego Office:
27710 Jefferson Ave, Suite 105,
Temecula, CA 92590
(951) 216-2456
Orange County Office:
18 Technology Drive, Suite 135
Irvine, CA 92618
(855) 383-0101
Los Angeles Office:
633 West Route 66, Suite A
Glendora, CA 91740
(818) 841-9004
Community Planning Environmental Studies
Sustainable Design Urban Design
Community Engagement Biological Resources
Land Survey and Mapping Photogrammetry
Geographic Information Systems Drone/sUAS
Water Quality and NPDES Civil Engineering
4 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
SERVICES PROVIDED AND AVAILABLE (DISCIPLINES)
Casc provides a variety of services to our Public Agency Partners, which includes, but is not limited to:
ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
CEQA/NEPA
• Environmental Impact Reports (EIR)/Environmental Impact Statements (EIS)
• Initial Studies (IS)/Environmental Assessments (EA)
• Negative Declarations (ND)
• Mitigated Negative Declarations (MND)
• Categorical Exemptions (CE)/Categorical Exceptions (CE) • CEQA/NEPA Notices
• Peer Review—Environmental Documents & Studies
PLANNING SERVICES
Planned Developments
• General Plans and Zoning Amendments
• Specific Plans
• Zoning Ordinances
• Land Use Concept Plans
• Circulation Infrastructure Plans
• Due Diligence
• Planned Unit Developments (PUD)
• Design Standards
• Architecture and Landscaping Standards
• Park Planning
• Implementation and Enforcement Standards
Residential
• Subdivision Maps
• Planned Unit Developments
• High Density Communities
• Park Planning
• Complete Street Design
• Live/Work Space
• Mixed Use Development
• Transit Oriented Development (TOD)
• Walkable Communities
Commercial
• Office Development
• Neighborhood Commercial Retail
• Regional Tourism Planning
• Economic Development
• Historic District
• Destination Retail
• Green Building
• Infill Development
• Overlay District
Industrial
• Business Park Development/High-cube Development
• Redevelopment
• Green Building
Community Engagement
• Community Outreach and Planning
• Planning Commission Public Presentations
• City Council/Board of Supervisor Meetings
• Municipal Advisory Councils / Scoping Meetings
• Community Council Presentations
NATURAL RESOURCES SERVICES
Biological Resources Assessment and Evaluation
• Focused Surveys for Sensitive Plants and Wildlife
• Habitat Associations and Vegetation Mapping
• Wetland and Waters Evaluation
• Resource Agency Permitting and Coordination
• Mitigation Compliance and Management
• Habitat Conservation Plans
• Preconstruction Surveys and Biological Construction Monitoring
GIS SERVICES
• Land Use Planning and Mapping
• Cartographic Services (preparation of maps and report figures) • Scenario Planning
• Demographic Analysis
• Spatial Analysis
• Glint/Glare Studies
• Shadow Studies
• Line of Sight Evaluations
LAND SURVEYING & MAPPING SERVICES
Construction Surveying & Staking
• As-Built Surveys
• Building Control and Layout
• Grading Certification
• Quality Assurance Surveying
• Site Improvement Surveys
• Subdivision Grading
Design Surveys
• Architectural Design Surveys
• Engineering Design Surveys
• Topographic Mapping
GPS / Geodetic Surveys
• Boundary Survey/Resolution
• Control Surveys
• Geodetic Control Surveys
• GPS Surveys
• Precise Benchmark Circuit Leveling
Photogrammetry
• Aerial Topographic Mapping and Control
• Digital Orthophotography
• Forensic Mapping
Mapping
• Annexation Legal Descriptions and Exhibits
• ATLA/ASCM Surveys/Maps
• Encumbrance Mapping
• Legal Descriptions and Plats
• Parcel Maps
• Right-of-Way Maps
• Records of Survey
• Subdivision Mapping / Tract Maps/ Utility Mapping
5 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
RELATED EXPERIENCES
Casc is staffed by more than 85 planners, scientists, civil engineers, contractors, and support staff, with experts in comprehensive planning, zoning, and the preparation of environmental impact reports (EIRs). We assist public and private clients on a range of projects that improve and evolve our communities, infrastructure, and natural environment. From planning, design, and permitting through construction, we move projects forward through the complexities of planning, regulatory compliance, budgetary and schedule constraints, and conflicting stakeholder interests. As a mid-sized consulting firm, we provide the personal service of project managers who stay with your project from start to finish, combined with the breadth and depth of capabilities characteristic of larger firms to meet the City’s project requirements. Our project managers are empowered to be problem solvers with the ability to make decisions in a timely fashion to maintain project momentum. We are proud of our low employee turnover; our staff’s long tenure means the project manager you see at the bidding stage will likely be with you at project completion.
COMMUNITY PLANNING AND URBAN DESIGN
Casc offers a unique combination of community planning and urban design expertise that brings visioning and community interests together to frame land use, transportation and urban design issues. From concept development to final
planning documents, Casc has a successful track record in the planning and design of environments that contribute to
community livability and neighborhood vitality. We integrate innovative solutions into our General Plans and other policy and action-oriented documents that we create. Casc’s urban design team works on a wide range of projects ranging from neighborhood design, downtown revitalization to city-wide visioning and regional strategic planning projects. Utilizing a variety of tools, including land use exercises, GIS mapping and analysis, computer simulations and slide shows, Casc engages stakeholders and builds consensus to ensure that the end result is a successfully implemented project.
COMMUNITY RELATIONS, PUBLIC OUTREACH, AND
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Casc designs and implements multi-leveled, well-documented community relations programs aimed at increasing public confidence in decision-making. Using proven facilitation techniques and succinct, easily understood information, we ensure that communities and stakeholders grasp pertinent issues and provide meaningful input to agencies. Our
outreach approach enables communities to contribute ideas, solutions, and strategies, resulting in supported and
successful projects. We are adept at identifying stakeholders and conducting assessments to capture perceptions,
concerns, and potential project impacts from diverse
audiences. Additionally, Casc has extensive experience in preparing masterplans, specific plans, and tract maps. We routinely deliver effective presentations to Planning
Commissions, City Councils, and Boards of Supervisors,
ensuring clear communication and alignment with municipal goals. This combination of technical skill and public
engagement ensures our plans are meticulously crafted and well-received by key stakeholders.
STRATEGIC COMMUNICATIONS AND GRAPHIC DESIGN
Casc provides high-quality written and graphic materials to document planning and design processes, create multimedia outreach and informational materials, and develop training and implementation tools. We produce attractive and easy-tounderstand, user-friendly materials to help communicate complex concepts and issues to a wide range of audiences. Our media and communications work crosses all mediums: print, Internet, video and multimedia.
POLICY DEVELOPMENT
Casc has deep experience in policy and regulatory planning, ranging from City General Plans to statewide planning initiatives and ballot measures. Casc is always up-to-date on the latest bills, guidelines and ordinances. We utilize our strong writing and research skills to craft General Plan policies that are state-of-theart, relevant, appropriate and implementable.
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT (CEQA)
Casc’s experienced team excels in CEQA document preparation, managing environmental review processes in a streamlined, compliant, and straightforward manner. Our environmental planners have prepared CEQA documents for diverse
development, restoration, and conservation projects throughout the state. We provide legally defensible documents supported by substantial evidence, with none ever successfully legally challenged. Collaborating with clients, local, regional, state, and federal agencies, and the public, we define project objectives, address concerns, and outline appropriate processes. Our planners creatively solve regulatory challenges within financial and scheduling constraints, producing complete and high-quality CEQA documents. Our in-house technical publications editors and graphic designers ensure these documents are clearly organized and easily interpreted by all stakeholders.
6 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
URBAN CROSSROADS,
TRANSPORTATION, AIR QUALITY, NOISE
Founded in 2000, Urban Crossroads, Inc. is a California “S” Corporation and certified Small Business and a leading provider of traffic, air and noise consulting services. Urban serves both public and private sector clients to provide forecasting, analysis and design for all modes of transportation. Urban Crossroads delivers timely work products that satisfies the regulatory requirements while communicating with our clients throughout the process.
LEIGHTON CONSULTING,
GEOTECHNICAL/SOILS/ ESA’S
Leighton Consulting, Inc. (Leighton) is a renowned geotechnical and environmental engineering firm, honored as a 2019 Top Design Firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR). Established in 1961, Leighton serves public and private sectors with
geotechnical and environmental engineering solutions,
materials testing, and inspection services across Southern California. With eight offices and over 175 professionals, including engineers, geologists, scientists, and technicians, Leighton offers comprehensive services such as geological and geotechnical reviews, environmental assessments, and
regulatory compliance support. Their expertise covers a wide range of areas including remediation, seismic analysis, foundation design, and hazardous material management.
DUKE CRM,
CULTURAL/PALEONTOLOGICAL
DUKE CRM provides private and public clients with the highest quality archaeological, historical, and paleontological consulting services. DUKE CRM balances the importance of preserving significant historical, archaeological, and scientific resources with the needs of a growing and changing human environment.
To do this they approach each project with sound science combined with regulatory strategy to seek development
solutions. DUKE CRM staff are experts in CEQA and NEPA and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA, Section 106).
TEAMING PARTNERS
ACKERMAN LAW PC, CEQA/LAND USE ATTORNEY
Ackerman Law PC provides clients with a full suite of legal services related to real estate, land use, environmental law, and utilities regulation. These services include transactional advice and documentation, advocacy before municipal and administrative agencies, and litigation services. Ackerman Law PC brings legal expertise to ensure legally defensible planning documents.
NUVIS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE,
LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT
With over 50-years of commitment to responsible design of outdoor spaces, NUVIS, a full-service landscape architectural design firm, creates memorable project solutions that achieve sustainable results. NUVIS is a team of integrators, providing leadership skills and broad knowledge of the Architecture, Engineering, and Construction industry. NUVIS facilitates each public and private project as a composition of site
environmental factors, project programming, and input from all stakeholders. NUVIS provides the following services: project management, idea generation and conceptual formulation, community workshop facilitation, schematics, design
charrettes, simulations and graphics, design development, construction documents, record drawing, and design review services.
THE NATELSON DALE
GROUP, INC., ECONOMIC & FINANCIAL
The Natelson Dale Group, Inc. (TNDG) is a real estate economic and financial consulting firm established in Los Angeles in 1974 which provides services to both public and private clients in the following areas: Socioeconomic analysis, Fiscal impact
evaluation, Real estate market forecasts and development feasibility studies, Financial feasibility and income projection analyses, Economic development strategic plans, General plan economic development elements, Redevelopment and
revitalization strategies, and Market impact studies and cost/ benefit analyses.
7 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
ORGANIZATIONAL CHART
Casc is proud to present an experienced and highly qualified team to provide professional on-call planning and environmental services. Based on our team’s experience with similar projects, we are proposing a Project Team that is tailored to the needs and expectations of the City. Our team of professionals hold credentials that attest to their knowledge, skills, and abilities. By presenting credentialed and experienced staff, the City will have exceptional confidence in the team.
CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING
FRANK COYLE (DAY-TO-DAY CONTACT)
ACKERMAN LAW PC
JASON ACKERMAN (CEQA ATTORNEY)
ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENTS PLANNING DOCUMENTS
SUBCONSULTANTS
CEQA LEAD
DANIELLE ORNELAS
ASSOCIATE PLANNER
ASHIQ SYED
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
KIM BOYDSTUN
HYDROLOGY/WATER QUALITY
MIKE GENTILE
UTILITIES/SERVICE SYSTEMS
ANTHONY MISTRETTA
PLANNING LEAD
LAUREN REINEMAN
SR. PLANNER
JESS BRUCKHART
ASSISTANT PLANNER
KACEY REINEMAN
GIS SPECIALIST
BEN HAMADA
NUVIS LANDSCAPE
LANDSCAPING STANDARDS, GUIDELINES, RENDERINGS, STIMULATIONS
THE NATELSON DALE GROUP
ECONOMIC/FINANCIAL FEASIBILITY/
DEMOGRAPHIC ANALYSIS
URBAN CROSSROADS
AQ, GHG, NOISE, TRAFFIC, ENERGY
DUKE CRM
CULTURAL RESOURCES, TRIBAL
CULTURAL RESOURCES
LEIGHTON CONSULTING
HAZARDS/HAZARDOUS MATERIALS,
GEOLOGY/SOILS, MINERALS
SUBCONSULTANTS
8 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
TASK OVERVIEW
The matrix below identifies the tasks associated with Categories 1-3 and illustrates which team members will be assigned to those Tasks within each category.
TASK/CATEGORY
CoyleFrank
BruckhartJess
Reineman
LaurenOrnelasDanielle
Hamada
Ben
Syed
AshiqReinemanKaceyBoydstunKim
CrossroadsUrbanDUKE CRM
Leighton
Law
Ackerman
NUVIS
Landscape
TNDG
CATEGORY 3: PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
Zoning Code Updates • • • •
General Plan Updates • • • •
Housing Element Updates • • • •
Land Use and Zoning Map Updates • • •
Specific Plans, Master Plans, etc. • • • •
Demographic/Economic Data • • •
Site Specific Projects • • • • • • • •
Objective Design Standards • • • • •
Design Guidelines • • • •
Landscaping Renderings •
Landscaping Ordinance/Standards •
Planned Unit Developments • • •
Community Outreach • • • • • • •
Public Hearing Attendance • • • • • •
Project Specific GIS Exhibits, Figures,
and Maps • •
Environmental Support Documents
(EA, IS/ND, MND, EIR, etc.) • •
Technical Studies • • • •
Attorney Review for Planning and
Environmental Documents •
9 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
PROJECT TEAM RESUMES
Mr. Coyle has served as the Director of Planning and Project Director on specific plans, zoning codes, general plans and special planning studies for diverse cities throughout California for nearly 35 years. In this capacity, Mr. Coyle has worked with advisory committees, commissions and councils to develop long-range goals, policies and programs, and to craft the regulatory tools to ensure effective approval and implementation of various plans. Mr. Coyle has written plan elements, coordinated the preparation of plans and related environmental documentation and presented recommendations to decision-making bodies. Mr. Coyle also directs the preparation of CEQA documents. Mr. Coyle oversees and manages projects for a variety of public and private sector clients. Mr. Coyle’s background also includes code rewrites for many smaller communities and counties, as well as specialized zoning assignments for state and regional agencies. Mr. Coyle has prepared and managed a wide variety of high-quality policy planning and environmental documents, achieving an impressive record of accomplishment in successfully managing projects through the entitlement process. Mr. Coyle was employed as the Deputy Planning Director for Riverside County, overseeing both the Advanced Planning and Current Planning Divisions.
Additionally, Mr. Coyle has managed over 45 on-call planning and environmental contracts in Southern California.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• Comprehensive Zoning Code Update, City of Desert Hot Springs, CA • Palm Springs Classic Resort Community Planned Unit Development (PUD), City of Palm Springs, CA
• Desert Lakes Specific Plan, City of El Centro, CA
• Domenigoni-Barton Specific Plan Amendment, Riverside County, CA • Temecula Valley Wine Country Community Plan and Program EIR, Riverside County, CA
• Highway 74 Business Corridor Community Plan and EIR, Riverside County, CA • Riverside County General Plan Update and General Plan EIR, Riverside County, CA • County of Riverside’s Comprehensive Zoning Code Update, Riverside County, CA • KTM Motorsports Planning Entitlements and IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • Downtown Revitalization Specific Plan and IS/MND, City of Corona, CA • General Plan Amendment, City of Banning, CA
• Adobe Springs Specific Plan EIR, City of Murrieta, CA • Plaza de Murrieta Specific Plan, City of Murrieta, CA • Business Park Specific Plan Amendment and Modernization, City of Cypress, CA • General Plan Amendment, Residential Zoning Code Update, Objective Design and Development Standards, and Focused EIR, City of Buena Park, CA • Form-Based Zoning Ordinance Amendment, City of Walnut, CA • City-Wide Master Bike Plan, City of Redlands, CA
• Redlands Heritage Park Master Plan IS/MND, City of Redlands, CA POSITION AT CASC:
• Director of Planning
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 30+ Years
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS,
TRAINING, CERTIFICATES, LICENSES &
AFFILIATIONS:
• City of Redlands Climate Action
Task Force Committee (Member),
2008—2011
• American Planning Association
• Urban Land Institute
• ASTM International, Phase I
Environmental Site Assessments
(ESAs) for Commercial Real Estate,
10/2004
• Registered Environmental Assessor I
(REA I-07926), 2004—2011
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Community and Regional
Planning, Iowa State University, IA
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Project Management
• Planning Entitlements
• Presenting at Public Hearings
• Agency Coordination
• Master Plans
• Specific Plans
• CEQA/NEPA
FRANK COYLE
DIRECTOR OF PLANNING/
PROJECT MANAGER
10 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Ms. Reineman is an Associate Planner with an eye for design and brings over 6 years of experience. Ms. Reineman specializes in preparing accessible, user-friendly documents and materials that present planning concepts to the public in concise, easy-to-understand, and engaging ways. She prepares preliminary draft and final planning policy reports, conducts planning-related research, reviews and prepares design and development standards and zoning code updates, general plan updates, and specific plans for cities throughout Southern California. Ms. Reineman is skilled at investigating and summarize existing conditions, conducting data analysis, and developing community outreach programs. She advises clients on the most appropriate set of engagement tools to use to meet their unique needs and reach target audiences, utilizing both traditional and innovative techniques. Ms. Reineman draws on her past experience working with the public through her previous experience as a Program Coordinator, Community Development/Outreach Coordinator, and Marketing Specialist. Her diverse experience brings insight, strategy, and resources to all planning-related projects.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• General Plan Amendment, Zone Change, Specific Plan Amendment, Objective Design and Development Standards, and Focused EIR, City of Buena Park, CA • Comprehensive Zoning Code Update, City of Desert Hot Springs, CA • Domenigoni-Barton Specific Plan Amendment, Riverside County, CA • Highway 74 Business Corridor Community Plan and EIR, Riverside County, CA • KTM Motorsports Planning Entitlements and IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • General Plan Amendment, City of Banning, CA
• Business Park Specific Plan Amendment and Modernization, City of Cypress, CA • Form-Based Zoning Ordinance Amendment, City of Walnut, CA • Zone Amendment No. 18-1 Permitting Collectible Malls in Commercial Zones IS/ ND, City of Industry, CA
• Victorville Connection Planned Unit Development, City of Victorville, CA • Residential Design Manual for Fredericks Ridge, Riverside County, CA • Residential Design Manual for Ardis Ranch, Riverside County, CA • Residential Design Manual for Halberg Ranch, Riverside County, CA • Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan, Riverside County, CA • Riverside 40 GPA and Design Guidelines, Riverside County, CA • French Valley Marketplace Specific Plan, Riverside County, CA • Dynasty Estates Planned Unit Development, San Bernardino County, CA • Housing Conditions and Vacant Land Survey, City of El Centro, CA • Prado Raceway EIR, City of Corona, CA
POSITION AT CASC:
• Associate Planner II
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 6+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Psychology, California Baptist
University, Riverside, CA
AFFILIATIONS:
• American Planning Association
• Urban Land Institute
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Objective Design Standards
• Zoning Code Updates
• General Plan Updates
• Specific Plans
• Community Outreach
• Research and Analysis
• State Housing Laws
LAUREN REINEMAN
PLANNING LEAD/ASSOCIATE PLANNER II
11 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Ms. Ornelas brings over 8 years of experience as an environmental professional, focusing on Environmental Compliance, Planning Entitlements, and Biological Compliance Monitoring for both public and private sectors. She has successfully developed environmental compliance strategies for diverse projects, including mixeduse, residential, commercial, and industrial developments across Southern California.
Ms. Ornelas has prepared various environmental documents such as Initial Studies, Mitigated Negative Declarations, Environmental Impact Reports, and Mitigation Monitoring Programs, ensuring compliance with CEQA for multiple jurisdictions. In her role at CASC, she prepares environmental documents in accordance with both CEQA and NEPA, while effectively managing technical consultants in areas such as Air Quality, Greenhouse Gas, Traffic, Cultural Resources, and Geology.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• General Plan Amendment, Zone Change, Specific Plan Amendment, Objective Design and Development Standards, and Focused EIR, City of Buena Park, CA • Winchester Rd. Industrial Business, IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • Frederick’s Ridge TTM 38472, Focused EIR, Riverside County, CA • Starling Heights Specific Plan TTM 20372, IS/MND, City of Yucaipa, CA • Currier Rd., IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• Temple Avenue., IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• Nelson Avenue IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• Amar Rd/Kaplan Avenue, IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• Proctor Avenue, IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• Railroad Street, IS/MND, City of Industry, CA
• General Plan Update, IS/MND, City of Banning, CA
• General Plan Amendment Housing Element, IS/ND, City of Colton, CA • Various Copart IS/MND’s, City of Palmdale and Adelanto, CA • Redlands Blvd. & California St. Intersection Widening Project IS/MND, City of Redlands, CA
• Stargazing Glamping, IS/MND, San Bernardino County, CA • Velocity Truck Center, IS/MND, San Bernardino County, CA • Oasis Rd. Gas Station, IS/MND, San Bernardino County, CA • Ardis Ranch TTM 38738, Focused EIR, Riverside County, CA • Hallberg Ranch TTM 38757, Focused EIR, Riverside County, CA • Corona Shooting Range, IS/MND, Riverside County, CA
• Dos Lago Luxury Condos, IS/MND, City of Corona, CA
• TTM 38873, IS/MND, City of Hemet, CA
• Program EIR for Multi-Family Project, City of Santee, CA POSITION AT CASC:
• Senior Planner
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 8+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• M.S. Conservation Leadership,
Colorado State University
• B.S. Environmental Studies, Sonoma
State University
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Project Management
• Entitlement Process
• Environmental Compliance
• National Environmental Policy Act
(NEPA)
• California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA)
• Initial Studies/Negative
Declarations/Mitigated Negative
Declarations/Environmental
Impact Reports
• Biological Monitoring
DANIELLE ORNELAS
CEQA LEAD/SENIOR PLANNER
12 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Ms. Bruckhart has over 6 years of planning and environmental experience in the private and public sectors. Prior to her experience at CASC, Ms. Bruckhart worked for the County of San Bernardino as a Planner for 4 years as a Planner from 2018-2020 and a Planning Technician from 2016-2018. During her tenure with the County, she worked on various planning projects including the Countywide Plan for the San Bernardino County General Plan Update, County Community Action Plan, Greenhouse Gas General Plan Element Update, RHINA Reporting, and Development Code Updates. Ms. Bruckhart is very passionate about public engagement, project management, and process improvement. Ms. Bruckhart brings valuable perspective to addressing compliance measures for projects which stems from her unique background in project management of commercial, residential, and subdivision projects, General Plan updates, zoning ordinances, map creation and data analysis, and data and GIS analysis as well as process improvement and software implementation experience.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• Comprehensive Zoning Code Update, City of Desert Hot Springs, CA • San Bernardino County General Plan Update, County of San Bernardino, CA • San Bernardino Countywide Plan Update, County of San Bernardino, CA • Greenhouse Gas General Plan Element Update, County of San Bernardino, CA • 2021-2029 Housing Element Update, County of San Bernardino, CA • Development Code Updates, County of San Bernardino, CA • Open Counter Implementation, County of San Bernardino, CA POSITION AT CASC:
• Senior Planner
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 8+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Environmental Planning and
GIS, Indiana University of
Pennsylvania, PA
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Project Management
• CEQA/NEPA
• Zoning Code Updates
• General Plan Updates
• Planning Entitlements
• Community Plans
• Website Design and Social Media
• Spatial Analysis and GIS
• Public Engagement
JESSIE BRUCKHART
SENIOR PLANNER
POSITION AT CASC:
• Assistant Planner
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 4+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Environmental Science,
University of Redlands, CA
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Planning Entitlements
• Presentations
• QA/QC
KACEY REINEMAN
ASSISTANT PLANNER
Ms. Reineman is an ambitious learner who began her career as a Planning Intern at Casc in 2020 and was promoted to Assistant Planner in 2023. In her role, she conducts environmental analysis, offers technical assistance, and conducts research on project parameters. She compiles information from various sources to support the team, applicants, agencies, stakeholders, and the general public.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• KTM Motorsports Initial Study and Project Entitlements, Riverside County, CA • General Plan, Objective Design Standards, Zoning Code Update, and Program EIR, City of Buena Park, CA
• Comprehensive Zoning Code Update, City of Desert Hot Springs, CA • Form-Based Zoning Ordinance Amendment, City of Walnut, CA • Business Park Specific Plan Modernization, City of Cypress, CA • Heacock Logistics Parking Lot, City of Moreno Valley, CA • Senior Housing Project Initial Study, City of Yucaipa, CA 13 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
With over 9 years of experience as a planning and environmental professional, Mr.
Syed possesses extensive expertise in leading municipal planning projects. He has guided General Plan updates in conjunction with Zoning Code revisions, ensuring alignment with regulatory standards. Additionally, Mr. Syed has skillfully reviewed Environmental Impact Reports (EIRs) and proficiently prepared essential documents such as Initial Studies/Mitigated Negative Declarations (IS/MNDs), Notices of Exemption (NOEs), Notices of Preparation (NOPs), Notices of Completion (NOCs), and Notices of Determination (NODs) for various City and County projects. At Casc, he is responsible with preparing environmental documents in compliance with CEQA and NEPA regulations, overseeing technical consultants and ensuring regulatory compliance and project success.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• General Plan Amendment, Zone Change, Specific Plan Amendment and Objective Design and Development Standards, Initial Study/Negative Declaration (IS/ND), City of Buena Park
• General Plan Land Use and Community Design Element and Residential Zoning Code Update, Focused EIR, City of Buena Park
• Velocity Truck Center, Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), San Bernardino County
• Frederick’s Ridge TTM 38472, Focused EIR, Riverside County • Ardis Ranch TTM 38738, Focused EIR, Riverside County
• Winchester Rd. Industrial Business, Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration (IS/MND), Riverside County
POSITION AT CASC:
• Associate Planner
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 9 + Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Environmental Science,
University of California, Davis
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• CEQA/NEPA
• Zoning Code Updates
• General Plan Updates
• Planning Entitlements
• Community Plans
POSITION AT CASC:
• GIS Specialist
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 7+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• M.S. GIS, University of Redlands, CA
• B.A. Art Studio, Minor in
Environmental Studies, University of
Redlands, CA
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Small Unarmed Aircraft Systems
(sUAS)
• Geodatabase Management
• Software Interregation
• Data Quality Control
• 3D Modeling
• Data Delivery
BEN HAMADA
GIS SPECIALIST
Mr. Hamada joined Casc in 2021 as a GIS Specialist, and has a comprehensive background in GIS with over 7 years of experience in academic, government, and private sector roles. His previous positions as GIS Analyst and GIS Technician have equipped him with expertise in geodatabase management, software integration, data quality control, 3D data modeling, and data delivery. Mr. Hamada has a Masters Degree in GIS from the University of Redlands and has a Small Unmanned Aircraft Systems (sUAS) certificate. Mr. Hamada excels in data collection through various methods, map creation and updates, as well as providing GIS application training to colleagues. His diverse experience and up-to-date GIS strategies bring valuable insights to the team.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• General Plan, Objective Design Standards, Zoning Code Update, and Program EIR, City of Buena Park, CA
• General Plan Amendment, City of Banning, CA
• General Plan Amendment Housing Element, IS/ND, City of Colton, CA • Business Park Specific Plan Modernization, City of Cypress, CA • Winchester Rd. Industrial Business, IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • Frederick’s Ridge TTM 38472, Focused EIR, Riverside County, CA
ASHIQ SYED
ASSOCIATE PLANNER
14 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Ms. Boydstun has over 25 years of experience as a Senior Project Manager/Biologist in environmental consulting for public and private sector projects. She manages projects through the entitlement and CEQA/NEPA process, ensuring regulatory compliance, restoration installation, and mitigation monitoring. Her skills include sensitive flora and fauna surveys, habitat classification, constraints analysis, and construction monitoring. Ms. Boydstun excels in managing technical staff, project operations, scope, and budget. She collaborates with clients and resource agencies on mitigation and permitting strategies, provides QA/QC document review, and serves as a subject matter expert for technical analyses.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• Highway 74 Business Corridor Community Plan and EIR, Riverside County, CA • KTM Motorsports Planning Entitlements and IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • General Plan Update and EIR—City of La Cañada Flintridge, CA POSITION AT CASC:
• Project Manager/Biologist
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 30+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Biology and Chemistry,
California State University, San
Marcos
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Project Management
• Biological Resources
• Permitting/Regulatory Compliance
• Monitoring
KIM BOYDSTUN
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES - TECHNICAL STUDIES
POSITION AT CASC:
• Senior Engineer
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 20+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.A. Physics, Carton College,
Northfield, MN
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS:
• PE #058953
• QSD/P #01162
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Water Quality Management Plans
• Hydrology Studies
MIKE GENTILE, PE, QSD/P
WATER QUALITY/HYDROLOGY - TECHNICAL STUDIES
Mr. Gentile has over 20 years of experience in project management, engineering, design, and production for civil engineering projects. His expertise spans hydrology and hydraulics, drainage master plans, storm drain and water quality facilities design, roadway and drainage design, transportation studies, and water, sewer, and site development. He is skilled in storm-water management, construction specification preparation, and water quality BMPs. Mr. Gentile's collaborative approach integrates various disciplines to create tailored project solutions.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• Water Quality Management Plans/Drainage Studies for Development, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties, CA
• Water Quality Management Plan Peer-Review, City of Highland, CA Mr. Mistretta has over 15 years of civil engineering design experience. At Casc Consulting, he has worked on public works, parking facilities, street and highway improvements, electrical substations, solar facilities, residential subdivisions, and commercial sites. His expertise includes developing hydrology studies, drainage reports, and water quality designs, as well as creating SWPPPs and WQMPs.
RELEVANT EXPERIENCE:
• Highway 74 Business Corridor Community Plan and EIR, Riverside County, CA • KTM Motorsports Planning Entitlements and IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • Winchester Rd. Industrial Business, IS/MND, Riverside County, CA • Frederick’s Ridge TTM 38472, Focused EIR, Riverside County, CA
ANTHONY MISTRETTA, PE, QSD/P
UTILITIES/SERVICE SYSTEMS - TECHNICAL STUDIES
POSITION AT CASC:
• Director of Engineering
YEARS OF EXPERIENCE:
• 20+ Years
EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND:
• B.S. Civil Engineering, California
State Polytechnic University,
Pomona,
PROFESSIONAL REGISTRATIONS:
• PE #82755
AREAS OF EXPERTISE:
• Drainage Reports
• Hydrology Studies
15 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
SUBCONSULTANTS
Casc has assembled a highly qualified team of professionals to assist with as-needed planning and environmental projects:
URBAN CROSSROADS | Founded in 2000, Urban Crossroads, Inc. is a California “S” Corporation and certified Small Business and a leading provider of traffic, air and noise consulting services. Urban serves both public and private sector clients to provide forecasting, analysis and design for all modes of transportation. Urban Crossroads delivers timely work products that satisfies the regulatory requirements while communicating with our clients throughout the process. Urban has teamed with Casc for 15+ years.
URBAN CONTACT
ARIC EVATT
20341 SW Birch St.
Newport Beach, CA 92660
949.480.7788
[email protected]
DUKE CRM | DUKE CRM provides private and public clients with the highest quality archaeological, historical, and paleontological consulting services. DUKE CRM balances the importance of preserving significant historical, archaeological, and scientific resources with the needs of a growing and changing human environment through sound science combined with regulatory strategy. DUKE CRM staff are experts in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA), the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), and the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA, Section 106). DUKE has teamed with Casc for over 10+ years.
DUKE CONTACT
CURT DUKE, M.A, RPA
18 Technology Dr., Suite 103
Irvine, CA 92618
949.356.6660
[email protected]
LEIGHTON | Leighton Consulting, Inc. (Leighton) is a renowned geotechnical and environmental engineering firm, honored as a 2019 Top Design Firm by Engineering News-Record (ENR). Established in 1961, Leighton serves public and private sectors with geotechnical and environmental engineering solutions, materials testing, and inspection services across Southern California. With eight offices and over 175 professionals, including engineers, geologists, scientists, and technicians, Leighton offers comprehensive services such as geological and geotechnical reviews, environmental assessments, and regulatory compliance support. Their expertise covers a wide range of areas including remediation, seismic analysis, foundation design, and hazardous material management. Leighton as teamed with Casc for over 15+ years.
LEIGHTON CONTACT
STEVE OKUBO
10532 Acacia Street, Suite B-6
Rancho Cucamonga, CA
91730
909.527.8773
[email protected]
NUVIS LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE | NUVIS has more than 50 years of landscape architectural experience, NUVIS, a DBE/SBE professional services firm creates outdoor design solutions from studios in Orange County, Los Angeles, the Bay Area, and Las Vegas. NUVIS, as landscape architects, are team integrators, providing a broad knowledge base and leadership skills that facilitate project development as a composition, not a single component. The NUVIS team is passionate and dedicated design professionals work closely with public agencies, developers, and communities to provide customer driven solutions through hands-on collaborative workshops and design charette facilitation. NUVIS has teamed with Casc for 5 years.
THE NATELSON DALE GROUP | The Natelson Dale Group, Inc. (TNDG) is a real estate economic and financial consulting firm established in Los Angeles in 1974 which provides services to both public and private clients. Sophisticated analytical techniques are balanced with seasoned judgment as TNDG strives to produce analyses of the highest technical quality without advocating its own or anyone else's opinions. Imaginative problem identification and study plan formulation are applied to each assignment. The final products are structured to assist the client make realistic decisions and achieve practical results in the shortest possible time.
TNDG has teamed with Casc for over 10 years.
ACKERMAN LAW PC | Ackerman Law provides clients with a full suite of legal services related to real estate, land use, environmental law, and utilities regulation. These services include transactional advice and documentation, advocacy before municipal and administrative agencies, and litigation services. Ackerman Law is committed to providing high-quality legal services in matters related to land use, environmental law, and public utilities. Ackerman Law has teamed with Casc for over 5 years.
NUVIS CONTACT
TNDG CONTACT
LINDA FORDE
20250 SW Acacia Street
Suite 260
Newport Beach, CA 92660
714.754.9692
[email protected]
ROGER DALE
P.O. Box 489
Yorba Linda, CA 92885
714.692.9596
[email protected]
16 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
PROJECT EXPERIENCE
Provided below is a list of planning and environmental documents prepared for local governments across Southern California over the last 3-5 years.
TASK/CATEGORY
UpdatesZoning Code
UpdatesGeneral Plan Specific PlanDevelopmentPlanned Unit Analysis Economic ProjectSite Specific StandardsDesign GuidelinesDesign OutreachCommunity DocumentCEQA/NEPA StudiesTechnical
SELECTED PROJECTS
Buena Park General Plan Update, Residential Zoning Code Update, ODDS, SPA, and Focused EIR • • • • • • • •
Cypress Business Park Specific Plan and Modernization • • • • • • • Desert Hot Springs Comprehensive Zoning Code Update • • Walnut Form-Based Code • • • • •
Domenigoni-Barton Specific Plan Amendment • • • • • •
KTM Motorsports Planning Entitlements and IS/MND • • • • Banning General Plan Amendment • • • •
Victorville Connection Planned Unit Development • • • • Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan • • • • • •
French Valley Marketplace Specific Plan • • • • • •
Riverside 40 GPA and Design Guidelines • • • • •
El Centro Housing Conditions and Vacant Land Survey • • Yucaipa Starling Heights Specific Plan TTM 20372 • • • • Corona Dos Lago Luxury Condos • • •
Colton Housing Element Program 11 IS/ND • • •
SELECTED ON-CALL CONTRACTS
On-Call Planning/Environmental Services, Riverside County • • • • • • • • On-Call Environmental Planning Services, San Bernardino County • • • • • • • • • •
On-Call Environmental Services, Industry • • •
On-Call Environmental Planning Services, Moreno Valley • • • On-Call Planning Services, Carson • • •
Environmental Review Services, Hemet • • •
Contract Planning Services, Placentia • • • •
On-Call Planning/Environmental Services, Rancho
Cucamonga • • • • • • • •
On-Call Planning/Environmental Services, Pomona • • • • • • • • Contract Project Management and Development Services,
Yucaipa • • •
Contract Environmental Services, Temecula • • •
On-Call Planning/Environmental Services, Banning • • • • • • • 17 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Casc currently serves as an “extension-of-staff” to the County of San Bernardino’s Land Use Services Department and has performed a variety of land use planning services to the County. This includes the following:
DEVELOPMENT CODE UPDATE (2020-2022)
• Reviewing and reorganizing the existing Code to align with new General Plan Goals and Policies.
• Facilitating discussions with County Staff to improve the Zoning Code. • Drafting updates, preparing presentations for the Planning Commission, and providing training for County Staff.
• Managing public participation, monitoring comments, and responding to inquiries regarding the Zoning Code updates.
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE (2017-2020)
• Creating a comprehensive General Plan Update, including an interactive, web-based Countywide Plan. • Coordinating public engagement through social media, newsletters, and in-person meetings. • Providing training on new General Plan Goals and Policies.
COMMUNITY ACTION GUIDES (2017-2020)
• Assisting in preparing Community Action Guides for the Valley, Mountain, and Desert Regions. • Facilitating community discussions and developing action-oriented directions. • Monitoring progress, assisting with resources, and updating community profiles based on feedback.
Since 2019, Casc has provided comprehensive planning and environmental services to Riverside County's TLMA. Key projects include:
HIGHWAY 74 CORRIDOR COMMUNITY PLAN & EIR (2018-2023)
• Completed a Corridor Assessment for 900 parcels over 8.4 miles. • Created GIS-based maps for the General Plan Update.
• Conducted community outreach and prepared an Environmental Impact Report, presented to the Planning Commission in November 2023.
• Project was completed in 2 Phases; Phase 1 (2018-2020) and Phase 2 (2021-2023).
KTM MOTORSPORTS HEADQUARTERS (2019-2023)
• Provided environmental and land use planning for a 160,000 sq. ft. complex in French Valley.
• Facilitated approvals through the Economic Development Agency’s Fast-Track program. • Prepared an IS/MND, collaborated with ALUC, and navigated FAA processes for a "No Hazard" determination. • Coordinated final engineering, infrastructure, and building improvements, completed in early 2023.
DIAMOND VALLEY ESTATES SPECIFIC PLAN (2019-2020)
• Led the development of a 413-acre master-planned community, including diverse housing, commercial spaces, and public amenities.
• Integrated pedestrian connectivity with greenbelt trails. • Ensured alignment with the Riverside County General Plan and San Jacinto Valley Area Plan.
ON-CALL LAND USE PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
COUNTY OF SAN BERNARDINO
SERVICE DATES
2018—Ongoing
Estimated Completion: Mid-2025
ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
• Pioneertown Motel IS/MND (2022)
• Helendale Gas Station IS/MND
(2021)
• Lockhart Solar Peer Review EIR
(2023)
ON-CALL LAND USE PLANNING & ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
SERVICE DATES
2018—Ongoing
Estimated Completion: Late-2025
ADDITIONAL PROJECTS
• French Valley Marketplace Specific
Plan (2020)
• Fredericks Ridge Residential
Community Project (Ongoing)
• Ardis Residential Community
Project (Ongoing)
• Hallberg Ranch Residential
Community Project (Ongoing)
18 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
The City of Buena Park recently updated their General Plan 2021-2029 Housing Element in January 2022 for the 6th Cycle of the City’s Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA).
Based on the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) 6th Cycle Final RHNA, the City has a total RHNA of 8,919 housing units. As a built-out community, the City can accommodate approximately 10,322 housing units through pending projects, the City’s inventory of vacant and underutilized land, accessory dwelling units (ADUs), rezoned sites, and Housing Incentive Overlay sites. As an implementation strategy to meet the City’s RHNA allocation, the City has initiated the Land Use and Community Design Element and Residential Zoning Code Updates to establish development standards for the General Mixed-Use zone, create standards for six (6) Housing Incentive Overlays with a variety of densities provided by the Housing Element, and update the existing Housing Opportunities Overlay to allow an increased density of 30 du/ac to 50 du/ac. The CASC team is developing standards and guidelines focused on defining and regulating the patterns, forms and character of infill buildings and their street frontages in a range of contexts.
These include retail/mixed-use environments, urban housing, and mixed-use neighborhood centers supporting existing surrounding residential neighborhoods. The standards address block size, street type, building massing, pedestrian and vehicular access, parking location and configuration, facade modulation and architecture, and frontage design in addition to building heights, setbacks, and allowed uses.
The Project is ongoing and due to schedule constraints initiated by the City’s grant funding, Casc developed a schedule that separated the project into (2) phases. Phase 1 included the preparation of an interactive GIS map, Objective Design and Development Standards for Housing Incentive Overlays, Citywide Architectural Styles Objective Design Standards, a Specific Plan Amendment, and an Initial Study/Negative Declaration. Phase 1 was adopted by City Council in January 2024. Phase 2 includes the preparation of a General Plan Update, Residential Zoning Code Update, and Focused EIR.
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE, RESIDENTIAL ZONING CODE UPDATE,
AND FOCUSED EIR
CITY OF BUENA PARK
SERVICE DATES
2022—Ongoing
Estimated Completion: Late-2024
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Land Use and Community
Design Element Update
• Objective Design Standards for
Single-Family and Multi-Family
Zones
• Streamlined Processes and
Definitions Update for Affordable
Housing.
• Mixed-Use Zones Development
Standards and Objective Design
Standards
• Housing Incentive Overlay
Objective Design and
Development Standards (ODDS)
• Architectural Styles ODDS
• Community Engagement
Program
• Due Diligence Memorandum
• Initial Study
• Focused EIR
• AQ/GHG, VMT, LOS, HRA
Technical Analysis
19 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
The City of Cypress recently selected Casc to modernize and integrate the City’s six (6) Business Park Specific Plans into one (1) cohesive guiding document. The original business park specific plans are currently outdated, as they were adopted between 1978-1994. Each of the six (6) Specific Plans share the same goals: 1) to provide a comprehensive set of development regulations, 2) encourage the establishment of compatible industries, and 3) ensure quality development within the City. The Business Parks have very low vacancy and turnover rates; thus, the goals of the Specific Plans have been achieved. The Specific Plans modernization presents an opportunity to ensure continued success. The cohesive Business Park Specific Plan document will provide a user-friendly, strategic, actionable blueprint to guide near-term and long-term growth and development, building on the Business Park’s many assets, while providing necessary flexibility to City Staff, landowners, business owners, tenants, and residents.
Casc’s teaming partner The Natelson Dale Group, Inc. (TNDG) prepared a Real Estate Market Analysis and a Business Sector Analysis, which provided a detailed overview of Orange County’s and the City of Cypress’s existing and projected economic conditions. The purpose of this Report is to educate local stakeholders and policymakers on current and foreseeable market trends that may influence future development opportunities within the BPSP area.
SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT AND MODERNIZATION EFFORT
CITY OF CYPRESS
SERVICE DATES
2022—Ongoing
Estimated Completion: Late-2024
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Specific Plan
• Real Estate Market Analysis
• Business Sector Analysis
• Plant Palette
• Aerial Drone Photography
20 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Casc led the preparation of the Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan (DVESP) and Program Environmental Impact Report (EIR) for a 413-acre master planned community in the foothills of the San Jacinto Valley Area Plan (SJVAP), located within the unincorporated County of Riverside. Diamond Valley Estates provides a wide range of home types for a broad segment of potential homebuyers and allows for various outdoor recreational activities and commercial uses that are intended to promote a cultural-themed commercial experience, generate economic revenue, and create a sense of place within Riverside County. Diamond Valley Estates features public facilities, such as a K-12 academy, a private college campus and a cultural center honoring diversity of other cultures, as well as the local history of the site. The circulation plan for Diamond Valley Estates encourages pedestrian connectivity and provides an off-street pedestrian walkway and trail through the greenbelt/paseo system, which links internal trails to adjacent communities. These trails also provide recreational opportunities for residents and the local community. Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan is shaped by the visions and planning principles established in the Riverside County General Plan and the San Jacinto Valley Area Plan, which emphasizes community diversity, a sense of place, and preservation of the natural environment. A few visions and principals include:
• Employment: The Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan intends to provide economic development opportunity, not only for the local sub-region, but to the County as a whole. The Plan Vision divides the commercial opportunities into three main categories, each offering a wide array of employment opportunities. • Sustainability: The Diamond Valley Estates Specific Plan promotes and encourages sustainable development in nearly every aspect of the Plan Vision.
• Economic Vitality: Commercial and retail experiences are available to the local community and visitors, which provides economic benefits to the County and attract local revenue to surrounding businesses. The Plan’s Vision will provide and promote areas of commercial and cultural themed shopping experiences, retail development of all shapes and scales, as well as incorporates a pedestrian-friendly concept around each commercial streets.
DIAMOND VALLEY ESTATES SPECIFIC PLAN
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
SERVICE DATES
2017-2020
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Specific Plan
• Program EIR
21 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
The City of Walnut updated its 2021-2029 Housing Element in support of the 6th Cycle of Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA). They have been allocated 1,293 dwelling units, with a requirement to account for a net loss of 170 units. The City's General Plan allows for medium-density residential areas up to 14.0 du/ac and mixed-use density areas from 14.0 to 28.0 du/ac. To meet the required densities, the City has developed MediumHigh (MH) and High (H) Density Residential zones with a hybrid Form-Based Code (FBC).
These zones designate specific areas suitable for higher density residential neighborhoods, aiming for vibrant design themes, pedestrian-friendly streets, and compatibility with neighboring land uses. The FBC includes regulations and standards on density, setbacks, parking, building heights, facades, architectural elements, and building form. It is a guiding tool for development, along with the General Plan Housing Element and other community plans. The MH zone permits a density of 32.0 to 36.0 du/ac, while the H zone permits a density of 36.1 to 40.0 du/ ac for affordable housing developments like townhomes, condominiums, senior housing facilities, and parking structures. The FBC was approved by the City Council in April 2022.
Casc is providing comprehensive planning and environmental services to the County of Riverside Transportation and Land Management Agency (TLMA). Casc has completed Phase I of the Highway 74 Community Plan Corridor Assessment, which involved assessing over 900 parcels along an 8.4-mile stretch of Highway 74. The assessment included analyzing land uses, zoning, road access, drainage constraints, and infrastructure availability. Casc compiled the data and presented it through GIS-based land use maps to county staff, the Board of Supervisors, water districts, and citizen groups for the Comprehensive General Plan Update. Currently, Casc is working on Phase II of the Highway 74 Community Plan, conducting community outreach meetings to inform residents about the project and gather their feedback. Casc is preparing an Environmental Impact Report (EIR) and expect to present it to the Planning Commission in November 2023.
HYBRID FORM-BASED CODE
CITY OF WALNUT
SERVICE DATES
2021-2022
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Form-Based Code
• Due Diligence Memorandum
• Aerial Drone Photography
HIGHWAY 74 CORRIDOR COMMUNITY PLAN AND EIR
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TLMA
SERVICE DATES
2018-2023
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• General Plan Amendment
• Community Plan
• Program EIR
• Landscape Renderings
22 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
Casc prepared a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and Development Standards for a proposed mixed-use development, consisting of commercial, retail, office, self-storage, and multi-family residential development on approximately 34.74 acres in the City of Victorville, CA. The Project includes up to 230,632 square feet of commercial, retail, office and self-storage uses on 16.07 acres and up to 376 multi-family residential dwelling units on 18.67 acres with a density of 20.14 dwelling units per acre (du/ac). The PUD is divided into five (5) unique Districts tailored to the various land uses within each neighborhood to create an inviting urban environment within the overall design of the development. Each neighborhood is connected by a series of hardscaped pedestrian-friendly walkways that meander throughout the development. The project consisted of a General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Tentative Parcel Map, and Planned Unit Development application. The project was approved by City Council in late 2022.
Casc is leading the update to the City’s General Plan Land Use Element and Circulation Element pursuant to State requirements. The City’s General Plan was last updated in 2006.
Casc reviewed the existing General Plan and worked with the City and community leaders to determine an appropriate vision for the General Plan. Casc staff then collected applicable background data and consolidated it into user-friendly, graphic fact sheets to guide the elements and quickly communicate the key issues and opportunities to the public. For the Land Use Element, Casc created “PlaceTypes” as a method to characterize land uses and de-emphasize specific uses and focus on the form and character of the City’s neighborhoods and districts. For the Circulation Element, Casc created tailored goals, policies, and actions for priority transportation networks that support safe and efficient movement of people driving, walking, biking, and taking transit in Banning. Casc is preparing goals, policies, and programs to create a General Plan Update that proactively responds to state law and the desires of the community to retain a safe, resilient, and small-town community. Lastly, Casc’s teaming partner Urban Crossroads prepared a VMT analysis and Casc is in the process of preparing an Initial Study.
Casc prepared the Domenigoni—Barton Specific Plan and Supplemental Environmental Impact Report (EIR), which was certified by the County of Riverside in 2004. The project consists of 4,600 single-family and multi-family residential dwelling units with an average density of 2.7 du/ac. The Specific Plan includes a wide variety of medium to high densities (2 du/ac to 6 du/ac). The master plan incorporated planning areas dedicated to mixed used development (200.8 gross acres); which included residential, commercial, business park, educational and recreational land uses. The Specific Plan also incorporates 215 gross acres of commercial tourist and retail adjacent to the planned Highway 79 expansion from Temecula to Banning. The Supplemental EIR primarily focused upon changes in region traffic patterns that impacted future phases of development. The Domenigoni-Barton Specific Plan is located within a rapidly growing area of western Riverside County. The community is strategically positioned between the cities of Menifee and Hemet and will incorporate the future realignment of a major north-south corridor (State Highway 79) through the project. The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) and Cal-Trans served as the lead agency on this roadway project. Integration with several state and federal agencies to create a comprehensive and wholesome community separated by a Highway expansion was the most difficult challenge faced during this project development process. The client is modifying the approved Specific Plan to permit Industrial and Commercial Uses as a permitted use. The project consists of 37 planning areas that are divided into 7 phases for future development. Casc reviewed the Conditions of Approval and prepared a due diligence report of the Specific Plan’s current phasing plan and proposed phasing plan. Casc is currently preparing a Specific Plan Amendment to update development regulations, and modernize the design guidelines.
VICTORVILLE CONNECTION PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
CITY OF VICTORVILLE
SERVICE DATES
2021-2022
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Planned Unit Development
• Planning Entitlements
GENERAL PLAN UPDATE
CITY OF BANNING
SERVICE DATES
2022-Ongoing
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• General Plan Update
• Initial Study
DOMINIGONI-BARTON SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TLMA
SERVICE DATES
2022-Ongoing
DOCUMENTS PREPARED
• Specific Plan Amendment
• Initial Study
23 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
REFERENCES
At Casc, our commitment to client satisfaction is essential, and we take pride in delivering high-quality service to our clients. As a testament to our dedication, we have provided a list of references that highlight the positive experiences of our valued clients.
CLIENT NAME/TITLE CONTACT INFORMATION
CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS Erick Becerril
Housing & Community Program Manager
P: (760)-329-6411 ext. 116
E: [email protected]
CITY OF BUENA PARK Swati Meshram, PhD, AICP, LEED, AP
Planning Manager
P: (714) 562-3614
E: [email protected]
CITY OF CYPRESS Chris Wong
Business Development Manager
P: (714) 229-6753
E: [email protected]
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TLMA Ken Baez
Principal Planner
P: (951) 955-7436
E: [email protected]
CITY OF BANNING Adam Rush, M.A., AICP
Community Development Director
P: (951) 922-3131
E: [email protected]
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE Russell Williams,
Deputy Director
P: (951) 955-6880
E: [email protected]
24 Item Number: 16.
Desert Hot Springs (Category 3)
COST SCHEDULE
The table below outlines the employee’s name, job title, and their hourly wage.
EMPLOYEE NAME TITLE HOURLY RATE
CASC ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING, INC.
Frank Coyle Director of Planning $235
Jess Bruckhart Senior Planner $150
Lauren Reineman Planning Lead/Senior Planner $150
Danielle Ornelas CEQA Lead/Senior Planner $150
Ben Hamada GIS Specialist $120
Ashiq Syed Associate Planner $130
Kacey Reineman Assistant Planner $115
Kim Boydstun Senior Biologist $190
Anthony Mistretta Director of Engineering $235
Mike Gentile Senior Engineer $195
SUBCONSULTANTS
Aric Evatt (Urban) President $225—295
Curt Duke (DUKE) Principal $260
Steve Okubo (Leighton) Associate Geologist $275
Linda Forde (NUVIS) Principal $187
Roger Dale (TNDG) Managing Principal $265
Jason Ackerman (Ackerman Law) Attorney -
25 Item Number: 16.
Client Initial _____
Revised 12/01/23
2024 CASC ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING RATE SCHEDULE
REIMBURSABLE EXPENSES:
The following expenses will be billed at cost plus 15% unless otherwise noted:
Outside Services: Includes fees paid to sub-consultants, consultants, analytical laboratories, and other providers of services required for execution of the project.
Permits, Applications, and Fees: Includes fees for Notices of Intent (NOI), Notices of Termination (NOT), application fees, submittal fees, permit fees, and other fees required as part of the project and not paid directly by Client.
Reproduction Services: Includes blueprinting, copying, printing, and plotting. In-house plots will be billed at $6.00 per sheet for each client set and for a final in-house review set. B&W / Color copies: $0.08 / $0.90 for 8.5 X 11 and $0.20 / $1.20 for 11 X 17.
Rental Fees: Includes rental fees paid by the firm, including required vehicles, equipment, and tools required to complete the work.
Commercial Delivery Services: Including Express Mail, Federal Express, UPS and independent courier services.
In-House Pick-Up and Delivery Services: When provided by the firm, these services will be billed at $50.00 per hour plus current IRS mileage reimbursement rates per mile round trip, with no additional markup.
Travel Expenses: Includes travel expenses incidental to performance of the work, including airfare, parking, tolls, taxi, lodging, etc. Vehicle mileage will be billed at a rate of current IRS mileage reimbursement rate per mile with no additional markup. Travel time for professional and administrative staff will be billed per the hourly fee rate schedule with no additional markup and survey crews will be billed at $60 per hour, per 2-man crew.
Per Diem: Per diem for meals for overnight stays will be billed at Caltrans current state rates.
NOTES:
Prevailing Wage: Projects and/or portions thereof designated by Client to be subject to Prevailing Wage shall be billed at the Prevailing Wage rate, plus a multiplier of approximately 3.4 for overhead and profit. The Prevailing Wage rate shall be based upon the Wage Rate Determination issued by California’s Director of Industrial Relations for the locality and employee classification at the time the work is performed. Please contact CASC for specific project prevailing wage rates.
Waiver of Subrogation: When a Waiver of Subrogation for Workman’s Compensation Insurance is required by the Client, the Client will be required to pay the additional insurance premium.
The approximate amount for the waiver is $250 per year.
Litigation Support and Expert Witness shall be at 2.0 times the above noted hourly rates.
Annual Increase in rate: CASC will increase their rates annually, usually at the beginning of a calendar year. A new fee rate schedule will be provided.
Civil Engineering Planning and Environmental Resources
President/Principal Engineer $285 Planning Director $235 Sr. Director $250 Senior Project Manager $195
Director $235 GIS Manager $190
Senior Project Manager $205 Biologist $190
Senior Engineer $195 Project Manager $185
Project Manager $185 Senior Biologist $175
Assistant Project Manager $170 Senior Planner $150
Project Engineer $165 Associate PlannerII $135
Senior Designer $160 Associate PlannerI $130
Design Engineer II $155 Assistant Planner $115
Design Engineer I $145 GIS Specialist $120
Designer $135 Biologist/Construction Monitor $115
Project Administrator/Analyst $130
CADD Drafter $125 Surveying and Mapping
Licensed Surveyor/ Director $235
Environmental Engineering Senior Survey Project Manager $185 Director $235 Senior Survey Analyst $160
Program Manager $230 Calculator $150
Sr. Project Manager $195 Survey Analyst $120
Project Manager $185
Scientist $165 Field Survey Crews
Senior Environmental Analyst $170 Three Person Survey/GPS Crew $285 Environmental Analyst II $175 Two Person Survey/GPS Crew $255 Environmental Analyst I $160 One Person Survey/GPS Crew $240 Staff Analyst II $135 Three Person Prevailing Wage Crew $385 Staff Analyst I $125 Two Person Prevailing Wage Crew $285 Landscape Architecture Unmanned Aerial Services
Licensed Landscape Architect $180 Director $245
Senior Landscape Designer $155 Licensed UAS Pilot $210
Associate Landscape Designer $130 Project Manager $175
Video Editor $165
Construction Management Visual Observer/Flight Coordinator $125 Resident Engineer $235
Field Inspector $150 Clerical
Administrative/Accounting Support $105
26 Item Number: 16.
May 30, 2024 | 5:00 P.M.
CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS
On-Call Environmental and
Planning Services - Category 3
Planning and Environmental Services
PROPOSAL MAIN CONTACT:
Shelby Sieracki
Director of Sales - West Region
626.224.2055
[email protected]
1500 S. Haven Ave., Suite 220
Ontario, CA 91761
www.interwestgrp.com Item Number: 16.
1500 S. Haven Ave., Suite 220
Ontario, CA 91761
909.295.3142 Phone
ii
City of Desert Hot Springs | Professional On-Call Environmental and Planning Services May 30, 2024
Mr. Travis Clark
Community Development Director
Community Development Department
City of Desert Hot Springs
11999 Palm Drive
Desert Hot Springs, CA 92240
Re: Statement of Qualifications for Professional On-Call Environmental and Planning Services Dear Mr. Clark:
Interwest Consulting Group, Inc. (Interwest) understands that the City of Desert Hot Springs (City) is seeking qualified consultants to provide On-Call Environmental and Planning Services. Our team has thoroughly reviewed the City’s Request for Qualifications and we are proposing a highly qualified and appropriately licensed staff to deliver the services requested.
This proposal is for Category 3. Planning and Environmental Services (directly for the City of Desert Hot Springs).
We have provided planning support for a variety of cities in California, including communities similar to Desert Hot Springs, such as Rancho Cucamonga, El Monte, Apple Valley, Palmdale, and Del Mar — to name a few. Our planners have extensive experience working with local governments as staff members and as consultants. We understand the similarities between communities, but also understand that every community has their unique priorities and their own way of processing planning work. We utilize the City’s adopted policies and procedures and combine them with the best management practices to ensuring that projects are delivered on time and within budget. The depth of our talent pool enhances our commitment to customer service, providing an additional layer of expertise to tackle any scenario.
We currently serve over 330 California public cities, counties, and state agencies. Our staff at Interwest builds relationships with our clients that extend far beyond the provision of day-to-day services. Our team has the proven ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with City staff and we will continue to coordinate with the City to ensure that deadlines and expectations are clearly defined and stringently met. lnterwest’s management philosophy is to retain senior-level employees who have years of experience in their chosen fields.
Our goal is to provide industry experts who can seamlessly customize and perform services to correspond with our clients’ expectations and needs.
Shelby Sieracki will be the Account Manager and primary point of contact for this opportunity and can be reached at 626.224.2055 or [email protected]. Shelby will be responsible for ensuring increasing levels of client satisfaction throughout the life of the contract by performing periodic Client Health Checks, a service uniquely provided by Interwest.
Our Principal-in-Charge, Richard Smeaton, AICP, has provided professional planning services for more than 25 years and brings a wealth of experience in current planning and long-range planning. This experience includes General Plan and Zoning Code updates across California. He will be supported by Nick Pergakes, AICP, who has over 20 years of experience in General Plans, Zoning Code updates, TOD planning, and Specific Plans.
Our Planning Division brings a deep knowledge of hazard mitigation practices and current regulations as we apply our knowledge in order to reach successful outcomes. Our team brings strong qualifications in hazard mitigation planning, entitlement reviews, zoning and development regulations, long-range planning, and urban design that will support agency planning programs. Interwest is recognized as industry leaders and champions for innovative and effective planning. We can utilize the City’s adopted policies and procedures and combine them with the best management practices to ensure that projects are delivered on time and on budget.
Item Number: 16.
iii THOUGHTFUL SOLUTIONS. THRIVING COMMUNITIES.
City of Desert Hot Springs | Professional On-Call Environmental and Planning Services What Sets Interwest Apart
We pride our success in effective communication. We are committed to a “no surprises” approach built upon presenting ideas, asking questions, and identifying and addressing issues early in the process. We will propose options, seek direction, and implement solutions in close coordination with the City. We welcome this opportunity to help maintain the quality of life and character that makes the City a desirable community and we believe our planning team will provide superior resources for meeting your immediate needs and long-term goals. Together, our multidisciplinary team offers the following unique qualifications to the City of Desert Hot Springs:
General Plan and Zoning Expertise. We offer the knowledge, experience, and expertise to ensure that your project is a success. Interwest staff has over 25 years of experience and have worked on dozens of zoning code updates for cities and counties in California.
Urban Design and Place-Making. Interwest is adept at working with local communities and their constituencies to find solutions to complex urban design and planning issues. The Interwest Planning Team has extensive experience in many aspects of urban planning, economic development marketing, and development review of significant projects to oversee compliance with CEQA, Subdivision Map Act, and Development Codes.
CEQA Experience. Our staff has decades of experience with the California Environmental Quality Act and will ensure CEQA compliance on all projects. Our staff brings a thorough understanding of how to streamline the environmental process, focusing only on the items important to the community.
Broad Multidisciplinary Skills. Interwest is multi-disciplinary and brings a broad range of practice areas, including zoning, comprehensive planning, transportation planning, urban design, and public facilitation. Our range of skills and experience enable us to prepare effective development regulations that work in the real world.
Current Housing Law. Interwest staff work diligently to stay current on California’s housing laws. As any planner in California knows, housing is one of the most pressing issues in our state and lawmakers have been very active in creating housing legislation for the past three years. Our team is here to help navigate the complex collection of recently enacted housing legislation in a manner that reflects local interests and values while complying with state law.
Advance Planning Meets Development. Interwest’s staff have long served as extensions to municipal planning and community development departments. We have processed projects, implemented planning documents, and helped to design communities. This hands-on experience leads to practical solutions.
Innovative Public Participation. We lead public participation programs that are inclusive, informative, and validating for participants. We offer experience leading public processes for Zoning Code updates, which require a different approach from General Plan and other policy-level planning projects. We have experience using tools such as ESRI Story Maps, Mindmixer, and Open Town Hall to engage the public in an online and web-based setting.
Unique Clients, Unique Solutions. Interwest’s proposed team is recognized throughout California as industry leaders and champions for innovative and effective planning and design. We know each community is unique.
Our team will provide on-call planning services and an environmental review that is tailored to the City of San Fernando, while meeting state law.
As President of Interwest Consulting Group, I am authorized to sign any agreements that may result from this proposal. We appreciate the opportunity to present our proposal and look forward to continuing to serve your community.
Respectfully,
Paul Meschino, President of Interwest Consulting Group, Inc.
Item Number: 16.
THOUGHTFUL SOLUTIONS. THRIVING COMMUNITIES. iv
City of Desert Hot Springs | Professional On-Call Environmental and Planning Services
RFP REQUIREMENT LOCATION OF
RESPONSE
CATEGORY 3- PLANNING AND ENVIRONMENTAL SERVICES (FOR THE CITY OF DESERT HOT SPRINGS)
1. Provide the name of the Planning Consultant, address, telephone number, and email address of the contact person on the cover page.
Cover Page
2. Provide an organizational chart and list all employees who may be involved in providing this service to the City.
3. Provide the resume of the Consultant’s Project Manager and of any other key staff with experience in the development of Planning Documents. Staff should have experience in working with the public, making presentations, and writing staff reports.
Pages 4-8
and Appendix A
4. Provide a list of sub-consultants that are routinely used in the development of Planning Documents by the Planning Consultant when the work is not done in-house. These can include engineers, architects, landscape architects, graphic designers, demographers, etc. Include contact information such as company name, address, contact person, telephone number, and email address.
5. Describe the Planning Consultant’s broad experience in the preparation of masterplans, specific plans, and tract maps, as well as routine presentations to Planning Commissions, City Councils, or Board of Supervisors.
Pages 9-14
6. Provide a list of Planning Documents prepared for local or state governments the Consultant has completed in the last three (3) years. Include the project name, a brief paragraph description, client, year completed, type of document (General Plan, Specific Plan, Master Plan, Area Plan, etc., and the entitlement outcome (adopted, approved, disapproved, etc.)