Indio City Council
April 1, 2026

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● City of Indio General Plan. The General Plan strives to conserve biological resources to promote long-term health and maintain biodiversity within the environment. The General Plan is consistent with the CVMSHCP. The County’s General Plan includes the following goals and policies related to biological resources that are applicable to the proposed Project:
- CE [policy] 7.6 Incorporate native desert plant materials into new development projects to the extent possible and feasible.
- CE [policy] 7.7 Apply appropriate land use and development regulations to limit development of sensitive biological areas, including wetlands, wildlife movement corridors, and sensitive habitats.
- CE [policy] 7.8 Ensure that outdoor lighting is shielded and directed away from natural open space areas.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project have a substantial adverse effect, either directly or through habitat modifications, on any species identified as a candidate, sensitive, or special status species in local or regional plans, policies, or regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? ● No New Impact.

The project site is located within a developing area in the City. The site was formerly improved with a ranch house which has since been demolished. The project site is currently vacant although improved with a chain-link fence, a block wall, and wooden poles. Scattered refuse can also be found along the bound ary areas of the site. The relatively level site is approximately 50 meters above sea level and contains no hillside areas. The vegetation community present onsite supports a heavily disturbed desert scrub habitat encompassing a mix of shrubbery, grasses, and a few trees . The proposed project is not located within a CVSMHP Conservation Area. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, regulations, or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service? ● No New Impact.

The Riverside County Map My County Application was reviewed to determine if any blueline streams or riverine resources have been documented on the project site. Based on this review, no blueline streams or riverine resources have been identified on the project site. The project site does not support any discernible drainage courses, inundated areas, wetland features, or hydric soils that would be considered jurisdictional by the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers (ACOE) or the California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW).

Therefore, project activities will not result in impacts to ACOE or CDFW jurisdictional areas and regulatory approvals will not be required . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

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C. Would the project have a substantial adverse effect on state or federally protected wetlands (including, but not limited to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, etc.) through direct removal, filling, hydrological interruption, or other means? ● No New Impact.

No wetland areas or riparian habitats (e.g., wetlands, vernal pools, critical habitats for sensitive species, etc.) were observed on the site. A review of the USFWS National Wetlands Inventory, Wetlands Mapper confirmed that there are no wetlands or riparian habitat present within in the site. Therefore, the proposed project will have no impact on federally protected wetlands as defined by Sectio n 404 of the Clean Water Act (CWA). No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

D. Would the project interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with established native resident or migratory life corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites? ● No New Impact.

A wildlife corridor can be defined as a linear landscape feature of sufficient width to allow animal movement between two comparatively undisturbed habitat fragments. Wildlife corridors are features that allow for the dispersal, seasonal migration, breeding, and fora ging of a variety of wildlife species. Additionally, open space can provide a buffer against both anthropogenic disturbance and natural fluctuations in resources.

The undeveloped land in the immediate vicinity of the project site provides local wildlife movement opportunities for wildlife species moving through the immediate area; however, the project site does not function as a major wildlife movement corridor or linkage due to the nearby roadways and development .

As such, implementation of the proposed project is not expected to have a significant impact to wildlife movement opportunities or prevent local wildlife movement through the area . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which wo uld potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

E. Would the project conflict with any local policies or ordinances protecting biological resources, such as a tree preservation policy or ordinance? ● No New Impact.

No heritage trees are located on the project site . The proposed project would not conflict with Code of Ordinances Chapter 98.09 (City Trees) and would therefore not conflict with any local policies or ordinances. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

F. Would the project conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan? ● No New Impact.

The Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) is a conservation plan that aims to protect species of plants and animals within the Coachella Valley. The CVMSHCP designates conservation areas with greater restrictions for develop ment. The project site is located within the CVMSHCP boundaries but is not located within a conservation area. No substantial new information was

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identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Biology, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.5 CULTURAL RESOURCES
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines?

B. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines?

C. Would the project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of dedicated cemeteries? 

THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on cultural resources if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5.
● The p roposed project would cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5.
● The proposed project would disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of formal cemeteries.

Historic structures and sites are defined by local, State, and Federal criteria. A site or structure may be historically significant if it is locally protected through a General Plan or historic preservation ordinance.

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In addition, a site or structure may be historically significant according to State or Federal criteria even if the locality does not recognize such significance. To be considered eligible for the National Register, a property’s significance may be determined if the property is associated with events, activities, or developments that were important in the past, with the lives of people who were important in the past , or represents significant architectural, landscape, or engineering elements. Specific crite ria include the following:
● Districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are associated with the lives of significant persons in or past;
● Districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period, or method of construction, or that represent the work of a master, or that possess high artistic values, or that represent a significant an d distinguishable entity whose components may lack individual distinction; or,
● Districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that have yielded or may be likely to yield, information important in history or prehistory.

Ordinarily, properties that have achieved significance within the past 50 years are not considered eligible for the National Register. However, such properties will qualify if they are integral parts of districts that do meet the criteria or if they fall within the following categories:
● A religious property deriving primary significance from architectural or artistic distinction or historical importance;
● Districts, sites, buildings, structures, and objects that are associated with events that have made a significant contribution to the broad patterns of our history; ● A building or structure removed from its original location that is significant for architectural value, or which is the surviving structure is associated with a historic person or event; ● A birthplace or grave of a historical figure of outstanding importance if there is no appropriate site or building associated with his or her productive life; ● A cemetery that derives its primary importance from graves of persons of transcendent importance, from age, from distinctive design features, or from association with historic events; ● A reconstructed building when accurately executed in a suitable environment and presented in a dignified manner as part of a restoration master plan, and when no other building or structure with the same association has survived;
● A property primarily commemorative in intent if design, age, tradition, or symbolic value has invested it with its own exceptional significance; or,
● A property achieving significance within the past 50 years if it is of exceptional importance. 16 The State has established California Historical Landmarks that include sites, buildings, features, or events that are of statewide significance and have anthropological, cultural, military, political, architectural, economic, scientific or technical, religious, experimental, or other value. California Points of Historical Interest has a similar definition, except they are deemed of local significance. Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to cultural resources impacts include the following:

16 U. S. Department of the Interior, National Park Service. National Register of Historic Places. http://nrhp.focus.nps.gov. 2010.

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● Historic Preservation Act. Federal regulations for cultural resources are governed primarily by Section 106 of the National Historic Preservation Act (NHPA) of 1966. Section 106 of NHPA requires Federal agencies to take into account the effects of their undertakings on historic properties and affords the Advisory Council on Historic Preservation a reasonable opportunity to comment on such undertakings. The Council's implementing regulations, Protection of Historic Properties, are found in 36 Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 8 00. The goal of the Section 106 review process is to offer a measure of protection to sites, which are determined eligible for listing on the National Register of Historic Places. The criteria for determining National Register Eligibility are found in 36 C FR Part 60, Amendments to the Act (1986 and 1992) and subsequent revisions to the implementing regulations have, among other things, strengthened the provisions for Native American consultation and participation in the Section 106 review process. While Federal agencies must follow Federal regulations, most projects by private developers and landowners do not require this level of compliance. Federal regulations typically come into play in the private sector if a project requires a Federal permit or if it uses Federal money. ● Public Resources Code Section 5024.1 and the California Register of Historical Resources Created in 1992 and implemented in 1998, the CRHR is “an authoritative guide in California to be used by state and local agencies, private groups, and citizens to identify the state’s historical resources and to indicate what properties are to be protected, to the extent prudent and feasible, from substantial adverse change” (PRC §5024.1). Certain properties, including those listed in or formally determined eligible for listing in the NRHP and California Historical Landmarks (CHL) numbered 770 and higher, are automatically included in the CRHR. Other properties recognized under the California Points of Historical Interest (PHI) program, identified as significant in his torical resources surveys or designated by local landmarks programs, may be nominated for inclusion in the CRHR. A resource, either an individual property or a contributor to a historic district, may be listed in the CRHR if the SHRC determines that it meets one or more of the following criteria (listed under PRC §5024.1(c)).
● State Regulations. The State of California historic preservation regulations include the statutes and guidelines contained in the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA); Public Resources Code.

A historical resource includes, but is not limited to, any object, building, structure, site, area, place, record, or manuscript, which is historically or archaeologically significant. Section 15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines specifies criteria for evaluating the importance of cultural resources. In addition, California law protects Native American burials, skeletal remains, and associated grave goods regardless of the antiquity and provides for the sensitive treatment and disposition of those remains.

CEQA, as codified at PRC Sections 21000 et seq., is the principal statute governing the environmental review of projects in the State. As defined in PRC Section 21083.2, a “unique” archaeological resource is an archaeological artifact, object, or site abou t which it can be clearly demonstrated that, without merely ad ding to the current body of knowledge, there is a high probability that it meets any of the following criteria:
- Contains information needed to answer important scientific research questions and there is a demonstrable public interest in that information;
- Has a special and particular quality such as being the oldest of its type or the best available example of its type; and,
- Is directly associated with a scientifically recognized important prehistoric or historic event or person.

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● Health and Safety Code, Sections 7050.5 and 7052 State Health and Safety Code (HSC) §7050.5, declares that, in the event of the discovery of human remains outside of a dedicated cemetery, all ground disturbance must cease, and the county coroner must be notified. HSC §7052 establishes a felony penalty f or mutilating, disinterring, or otherwise disturbing human remains, except by relatives. More precisely, if human remains are encountered, St +ate HSC §7050.5 states that: a) “Every person who knowingly muti lates or disinters, wantonly disturbs, or willfully removes any human remains in or from any location other than a dedicated cemetery without authority of law is guilty of a misdemeanor, except as provided in Section 5097.995 of the Public Resources Code. The provisions of this subdivision shall not apply to any person carrying out an agreement developed pursuant to subdivision (l) of Section 5097.946 of the Public Resources Code or to any person authorized to implement Section 5097.987 of the Public Resour ces Code. b) In the event of discovery or recognition of any human remains in any location other than a dedicated cemetery, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie adjacent remains until the coroner of the county in which the human remains are discovered has determined, in accordance with Chapter 10 (commencing with Section 27460) of Part 3 of Division 2 of Title 3 of the Government Code8 , that the remains are not subject to the provisions of Section 274919 of the Government Code or any other related provisions of law concerning investigation of the circumstances, manner and cause of any death, and the recommendations concerning the treatment and disposition of the human remains have been made to the person responsible for the excavation, or to his or her authorized representative, in the manner provided in Section 5097.9810 of the Public Resources Code. The coroner shall make his or her determination within two working days from the time the person responsible for the excavation, or his or her authorized representative, notifies the coroner of the discovery or recognition of the human remains. c) If the coroner determines that the remains are not subject to his or her authority and if the coroner recognizes the human remains to be those of a Native American or has reason to believe that they are those of a Native American, he or she shall contact, by telephone within 24 hours, the Native American Heritage Commission.” ● City of Indio General Plan: The City’s General Plan includes the following goals and policies related to cultural that are applicable to the proposed Project:
- CE [policy] 8.1 Site plan review. Ensure adequate site plan review and mitigation measures are implemented for the development of sites with the potential to contain historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources.
- CE [policy] 8.2 Avoidance of impacts to historic resources . For projects that could affect historic resources, ensure adequate study to identify eligible resources and project-level review to avoid or lessen negative impacts through conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.
- CE [policy] 8.3 Incentivize retention of historic landmarks. Explore opportunities to provide economic and regulatory incentives for the retention and sensitive upgrades and changes to historic landmarks and contributors to designated historic districts. - CE [policy] 8.4 Monitoring. Require monitoring on sites where grading has the potential to impact subsurface cultural and paleontological resources during excavation and construction activities.

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ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a historical resource pursuant to §15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines? ● No New Impacts.

Historic structures and sites are defined by local, State, and Federal criteria. A site or structure may be historically significant if it is locally protected through a General Plan or historic preservation ordinance.

In addition, a site or structure may be historically significant according to State or Federal criteria even if the locality does not recognize such significance. The California Register of Historical Resources (CRHR) is a listing of all properties considered to be significant historical resources in the state. The California Register includes all properties listed or determined eligible for listing on the National Register, including properties evaluated under Section 106, and State Historical Landmarks No. 770 and above. The California Regis ter statute specifically provides that historical resources listed, determined eligible for listing on the California Register by the State Historical Resources Commission, or resources that meet the California Register criteria are resources which must be given consideration under CEQA. Other resources, such as resources listed on local registers of historic resources or in local surveys, may be listed if they are determined by the State Historic Resources Commission to be significant. A search was conduct ed using the California Historical Resources database available at the California Office of Historic Preservation website to identify the presence of historic structures within the project site. The search through the State’s registrar yielded no results. In addition, a second search was conducted using the National Register of Historic Places. Again, the search yielded no results. The proposed project would be confined to the existing lot. In addition, the project site does not appear on any State or Federal historic register. The property is not a locally designated landmark or within a locally designated historic district. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an archaeological resource pursuant to §15064.5 of the CEQA Guidelines? ● No New Impact.

The property is not a locally designated landmark or within a locally designated historic district. The project site is located within a moderate cultural resources sensitivity zone according to Figure 4.5 -1 Prehistoric/Ethnohistoric Cultural Resources Sen sitivity. The project site has already been disturbed and developed with a ranch house which has now been demolished; therefore groundwork has previously occurred on the project site . As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy CE -8.1 Site Plan Review through CE -8.4 Monitoring); therefore, potential impacts to archaeological resources associated with the GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. Would the project disturb any human remains, including those interred outside of dedicated cemeteries? ● No New Impact.

There are no dedicated cemeteries located in the vicinity of the project site. The proposed project will be restricted to the project site and therefore will not affect any dedicated cemeteries in the vicinity .

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Notwithstanding, the following mitigation is mandated by the California Code of Regulations (CCR) Section 15064.5(b)(4):
“A lead agency shall identify potentially feasible measures to mitigate significant adverse changes in the significance of an historical resource. The lead agency shall ensure that any adopted measures to mitigate or avoid significant adverse changes are fu lly enforceable through permit conditions, agreements, or other measures.”
Additionally, Section 5097.98 of the Public Resources Code states:
“In the event of discovery or recognition of any human remains in any location other than a dedicated cemetery, there shall be no further excavation or disturbance of the site or any nearby area reasonably suspected to overlie adjacent remains until the cor oner of the county in which the human remains are discovered has determined, in accordance with Chapter 10 (commencing with (b) Section 27460) of Part 3 of Division 2 of Title 3 of the Government Code, that the remains are not subject to the provisions of Section 27491 of the Government Code or any other related provisions of law concerning investigation of the circumstances, manner and cause of any death, and the recommendations concerning the treatment and disposition of the human remains have been made to the person responsible for the excavation, or to his or her authorized representative.

The coroner shall make his or her determination within two working days from the time the person responsible for the excavation, or his or her authorized representati ve, notifies the coroner of the discovery or recognition of the human remains. If the coroner determines that the remains are not subject to his or her authority and if the coroner recognizes the human remains to be those of a Native American or has reason to believe that they are those of a Native American, he or she shall contact, by telephone within 24 hours, the Native American Heritage Commission.” Adherence to the aforementioned standard condition will address potential impacts. No local cemeteries would be affected by the proposed project.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Cultural Resources, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

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3.6 ENERGY
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project result in a potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or
unnecessary consumption of energy resources during project construction or operation?

B. Would the project conflict with or obstruct a State or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? 

THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on energy resources if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would result in potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources, during the p roposed project’s construction or operation.
● The proposed project would conflict with or obstruct a State or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency.

Energy and natural gas consumption were estimated using default energy intensities by building type in CalEEMod. In addition, it was assumed the new buildings would be constructed pursuant to the 2022 CALGreen standards, which was considered in the CalEEMo d inputs. Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to energy impacts include the following:
● State of California Code of Regulations, Title 24. The California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24, Part 11: California Green Building Standards (Title 24) became effective to aid efforts to reduce GHG emissions associated with energy consumption. Title 24 now requires that new buildings reduce water consumption, employ design measures to increase building system efficiencies, divert construction waste from landfills, and install low pollutant‐emitting finish materials. Future improvements, including the electrical upgrades, will conform to all state and local building code and lighting regulations. The standards are updated periodically to allow consideration and possible incorporation of new energy efficiency technologies and methods. The standards offer developers better windows, insulation, lighting, ventilation systems, and other features that reduce energy consumption in homes and businesses. The 2019 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, which took effect on January 1, 20 20, would promote photovoltaic systems in newly constructed residential buildings and additional lighting standards. With rooftop solar electricity generation, homes built under the 2019 standards will use about 53 percent less energy than those under the 2016 standards.5 With the new lighting standards, nonresidential buildings would use 30 percent less energy than buildings built under the 2016 standards. ● California Green Building Standards The California Green Building Standards Code (California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11), commonly referred to as the CALGreen Code, is a Statewide mandatory construction code that was developed and adopted by the California Building Standards

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Commission and the California Department of Housing and Community Development. The CALGreen standards require new residential and commercial buildings to comply with mandatory measures under the topics of planning and design, energy efficiency, water effic iency and conservation, material conservation and resource efficiency, and environmental quality. CALGreen also provides voluntary tiers and measures that local governments may adopt which encourage or require additional measures in the five green building topics. The most recent update to the CALGreen Code was adopted in 2019 and went into effect January 1, 2020. ● The City of Indio General Plan. The General Plan incorporates policies in accordance with its goal of energy conservation and increased use of renewable energy. The City’s General Plan includes the following goals and policies related to energy resources that are applicable to the proposed project:
- CE [policy] 3.6 Implement building design requirements to achieve zero net energy use for new residential development by 2020 and zero net energy use for new commercial development by 2030 consistent with the California Public Utilities Commission’s California Long Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan.
- CE [policy] 3.8 Encourage the use of building placement, design, and construction techniques to limit energy consumption, reduce the heat island effect, increase renewable energy use, and maintain solar access.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project result in a potentially significant environmental impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources during project construction or operation? No New Impact.

The proposed project site is served by the Imperial Irrigation District (IID) which provides electrical service to the project area . Table 3 -4 provided below i ncludes an estimate of electrical consumption for the proposed project. As indicated in the table, the project is estimated to consume approximately 771 kilowatt hours (kWh) per day of electricity.

Table 3-4 Estimated Annual Energy Consumption
Project (50 units) Consumption Rate Total Project Consumption Electrical Consumption 5,625 kWh/unit/year 770.5 kWh/day Source: Blodgett Baylosis Environmental Planning.

It is important to note that the new residential units would include energy efficient fixtures. In addition, the energy consumption rates do not reflect the more stringent 2020 California Building and Green Building Code requirements. The proposed project will be constructed in accordance with the C ounty’s Building Code and with Part 6 and Part 11 of Title 24 of the California Code of Regulations.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

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B. Would the project conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for renewable energy or energy efficiency? ● No New Impact.

The California Code of Regulations (CCR) Title 24, Part 11: California Green Building Standards (Title 24) became effective to aid efforts to reduce GHG emissions associated with energy consumption. Title 24 now requires that new buildings reduce water consumption, employ building commissioning to increase building system efficiencies, divert construction waste from landfills, and install low pollutant‐emitting finish materials. The proposed project as well as any future development within the remainder of the project site will be required to conform to all pertinent energy conservation requirements. While the proposed project consists of 10 single-family units, the implementation of similar programs would prove effective in reducing potential energy consumption. The proposed project will be required to comply with all pertinent Title 24 requirements along with other Low Impact Development (LID) requirements. The City of Indio General Plan Conservation Element lists policies to attain its goal of energy conservation and increased use of renewable energy. The proposed project would be developed in accordance with the policies listed below:
- CE [policy] 3.6 Implement building design requirements to achieve zero net energy use for new residential development by 2020 and zero net energy use for new commercial development by 2030 consistent with the California Public Utilities Commission’s Calif ornia Long Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan.
- CE [policy] 3.8 Encourage the use of building placement, design, and construction techniques to limit energy consumption, reduce the heat island effect, increase renewable energy use, and maintain solar access.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Energy, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

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3.7 GEOLOGY & SOILS
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project directly or indirectly cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault; strong seismic ground shaking; seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction; or, landslides?

B. Would the project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? 
C. Would the project be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on- or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse?

D. Would the project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (2012), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? 
E. Would the project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater?

F. Would the project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? 

THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on geology and soils if it results in any of the following:
● The p roposed project would, directly or indirectly, cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist -Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault (refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42); strong seismic ground shaking; seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction; and, landslides?
● The proposed project would result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil. ● The proposed project would be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off-site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse.
● The proposed project would be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18-1-B of the Uniform Building Code (1994), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property.

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● The proposed project would have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater.
● The proposed project would directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature.

The proposed project ’s potential seismic and soils risk was evaluated in terms of the site’s proximity to earthquake faults and unstable soils. Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to geology and geotechnical impacts include the following:
● Local Hazard Mitigation Plan. Public safety planning generally focuses on how an agency or community members will prepare for, respond to, and/or recover from a disaster. Hazard mitigation planning focuses on how the impact of a disaster might be lessened. The City has adopted the 2018 Indio Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in 2018 . The LHMP includes an assessment of the City’s risk related to natural hazard impacts such as drought, seismic events, extreme heat, and flooding. The LHMP also includes a c omprehensive set of actions the City will complete to mitigate, or reduce, the impacts of those hazards. ● Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act. Following the 1971 San Fernando earthquake, the State legislature passed the Alquist ‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning (AP) Act, which regulates developments near known active faults due to hazards associated with surface ruptures. Pursuant to the Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act, development areas in or near the Alquist‐Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone require evaluation for potential surface ruptures in order to ensure public safety.
● Seismic Hazards Mapping At. The State legislature passed the Seismic Hazards Mapping Act (SHMA) to ensure public safety in regard to the effects of strong ground shaking, liquefaction, landslides, and other seismic hazards. Pursuant to the SHMA, the California Geological Survey (CGS) has established a statewide mapping program for cities and counties to aid in identifying areas subject to these seismic hazards.
● The California Building Code (CBC) The CBC provides procedures for earthquake resistant structural design that include considerations for on -site soil conditions, occupancy, and the configuration of the structure including the structural system and height. The seismic design parameters presented below are based on the soil profile and the proximity of known faults with respect to the subject site. Based on standards in place at the time of the various studies, the proposed development is expected to be designed in accordance with the requirements of the 2019 edition of the CBC, which was adopted on January 1, 2020.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project, directly or indirectly, cause potential substantial adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death? .
i). Would the project, directly or indirectly, cause rupture of a known earthquake fault, as delineated on the most recent Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Map issued by the State Geologist for the area or based on other substantial evidence of a known fault; Refer to Division of Mines and Geology Special Publication 42. ● No New Impact.

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The City of Indio is located in a seismically active region. Earthquakes from several active and potentially active faults in the Southern California region could affect the proposed project site. In 1972, the Alquist - Priolo Earthquake Zoning Act was passed in response to the damage sustained in the 1971 San Fernando Earthquake. The Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act's main purpose is to prevent the construction of buildings used for human occupancy on the surface trace of active faults. A list of c ities and counties subject to the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zones is available on the State’s Department of Conservation website. The project site is not located within an Alquist -Priolo Earthquake Fault Zone. The nearest fault s are the San Andreas Fault located approximately 3.89 miles northeast of the project site and the Indio Hills Fault located approximately 4.72 miles northeast of the project site. The proposed project would be required to comply with applicable regulations regarding seismic hazards including the 2022 California Building Code ( CBC) and Code of Ordinances Chapter 162 (Grading). No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR . ii). Would the project, directly or indirectly, cause strong seismic ground shaking. ● No New Impact.

There are several faults within the region that have the potential to cause strong ground shaking including the San Andreas Fault located approximately 3.89 miles northeast of the project site and the Indio Hills Fault located approximately 4.72 miles northeast of the project site . The potential impacts from fault rupture and ground shaking are considered no greater for the project site than for the surrounding areas given the distance between the site and the fault trace. The project would be required to c onstruct all proposed structures in accordance with the CBC so as to not expose substantial impacts associated with ground shaking. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .
iii). Would the project, directly or indirectly, cause seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction. ● No New Impact.

Liquefaction is the process by which water -saturated sediment temporarily loses strength and acts as a fluid. potential for liquefaction generally occurs during strong ground shaking within granular loose sediments where the groundwater is usually less than 50 feet below the ground surface. According to Figure

4.6-4, Liquefaction Hazard Map include in the Indio General Plan EIR , the project site is located within a high liquefaction susceptibility zone.17 As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy SE-4.2 Technical Reports and Policy SE -4.3 Liquefaction), the CBC, and Code of Ordinances; therefore, potential impacts to seismic-related ground failure, including liquefaction associated with the GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .
iv). Would the project, directly or indirectly, cause landslides? ● No New Impact.

According to the United States Geological Survey, a landslide is defined as the movement of a mass of rock, debris, or earth down a slope. The project site is level with no slopes in the surrounding area. No steep

17 Rincon Consultants, Inc. Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Indio General Plan Update. June 2019

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slopes capable of producing landslides or rockfall hazards are pr esent on the project site. The proposed project would have to adhere to CBC requirements which would prevent proposed improvements from causing landslides or slope instability. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of topsoil? ● No New Impact.

The University of California, Davis SoilWeb database was consulted to determine the nature of the soils that underlie the project site. According to the University of California, Davis SoilWeb database, the property is underlain by the Myoma fine sand associations of somewhat excessively drained soils and the Gilman loamy fine sand associations of well drained soils . Slopes range from 0 to 5 percent. 18 The project’s construction will not result in soil erosion with adherence to those development requirements that restrict storm water runoff (and the resulting erosion) and require soil stabilization. In addition, stormwater discharges from construction activities that disturb one or more acres, or smaller sites disturbing less than one acre that are part of a common plan of development or sale, are regulated under the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) stormwater permitting program. Prior to initiating construction, contractors must obtain coverage under a NPDES permit, which is administered by the State. In order to obtain an NPDES permit, the project Applicant must prepare a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The City and County has identified sample construction Best Management Practices (BMPs) that may be included in the mandatory SWPPP. The use of these construction BMPs identified in the mandatory SWPPP will prevent soil erosion and the discharge of sediment into the lo cal storm drains during the project’s construction phase. As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy SE-6.1 Grading) and Code of Ordinances regulations (Chapter 152 Dust Control, Chapter 155 Soil Erosion, and Chapter 162 Grading); therefore, potential impacts to soil erosion associated with the GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. Would the project be located on a geologic unit or soil that is unstable, or that would become unstable as a result of the project, and potentially result in on - or off -site landslide, lateral spreading, subsidence, liquefaction or collapse? ● No New Impact.

The project’s construction will not result in soil erosion since the project’s contractors must implement the construction BMPs identified in the mandatory SWPPP. The BMPs will minimize soil erosion and the discharge of sediment off -site. According to Figure 4 .6-4, Liquefaction Hazard Map, the project site is located within a high liquefaction susceptibility zone.19 As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy SE-4.2 Technical Reports and Policy SE-4.3 Liquefaction), the CBC, and Code of Ordinances ; therefore, potential impacts to seismic -related ground failure, including liquefaction associated with the GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

18 University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Soilweb. 19 Rincon Consultants, Inc. Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Indio General Plan Update. June 2019

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D. Would the project be located on expansive soil, as defined in Table 18 -1-B of the Uniform Building Code (2012), creating substantial direct or indirect risks to life or property? ● No New Impact.

As previously mentioned, the University of California, Davis SoilWeb database was consulted to determine the nature of the soils that underlie the project site. According to the University of California, Davis SoilWeb database, the property is underlain by the Myoma fine sand soils association and Gilman loamy fine sand soils association .20 According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, these soils are acceptable for the development of residential buildings. As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy SE -4.1 through SE 4.7) and Code of Ordinances regulations (Chapter 155 Soil Erosion and Chapter 162 Grading); therefore, potential impacts to soil erosion associated with the GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

E. Would the project have soils incapable of adequately supporting the use of septic tanks or alternative wastewater disposal systems where sewers are not available for the disposal of wastewater? ● No New Impact.

Sanitary sewer and water service would be provided to each lot in the subdivision. Sewer lines and water lines would be installed within the proposed roadways and would connect with existing lines in Avenue 50.

As a result, no impacts associated with the use of septic tanks will occur as part of the proposed project’s implementation. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anti cipated in the GPU PEIR .

F. Would the project directly or indirectly destroy a unique paleontological resource or site or unique geologic feature? ● No New Impact
According to Figure 4.5 -3, Sensitive Paleontological Resources, the project site is located within a high - potential zone .21 The project is located on Quaternary Alluvium deposits (Qal) sediments. All future development would be required to comply with GPU policies and mitigation measures identified withing the GPU PEIR that concern the protection of paleontological resources including policies CE-8.1 Site Plan Review and CE-8.4 Monitoring as well as mitigation measure MM-CR-4 which would reduce the potential to disturb paleontological resources to less than significant levels. ● MM-CR-4. In areas of high sensitivity for paleontological resources, as well as other areas in the City where no sensitivity mapping has occurred, the City shall either require future project applicants to conduct a paleontological field survey or conduct construct ion monitoring by a qualified professional if ground disturbance is proposed. If surveys are conducted, the surveys shall be sent to the City of Indio for review and approval prior to issuance of project -specific development permits.

20 University of California Agriculture and Natural Resources. Soilweb. 21 Rincon Consultants, Inc. Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Indio General Plan Update. June 2019

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As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy CE -.1 Site Plan Review and CE 8.4 Monitoring) and Mitigation Measure MM -CR-4; therefore, potential impacts paleontological resources associated with the GPU PEIR would be less than significant. As a result, No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Geology and Soils, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.8 GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment?

B. Would the project conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on greenhouse gas emissions if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment.
● The proposed project would conflict with an applicable plan, policy or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the emissions of greenhouse gases.

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The proposed project site is located on a site that is currently undeveloped. Examples of GHG that are produced both by natural and industrial processes include carbon dioxide (CO 2), methane (CH 4), and nitrous oxide (N 2O). The accumulation of GHG in the atmosphere regulates the earth's temperature.

Without these natural GHG, the Earth's surface would be about 61°F cooler. However, emissions from fossil fuel combustion have elevated the concentrations of GHG in the atmosphere to above natural levels. These man-made GHG will have the effect of warming atmospheric temperatures with the attendant impacts of changes in the global climate, increased sea levels, and changes to the worldwide biome. The major GHG that influence global warming are described below.
● Water Vapor. Water vapor is the most abundant GHG present in the atmosphere. While water vapor is not considered a pollutant, while it remains in the atmosphere it maintains a climate necessary for life. Changes in the atmospheric concentration of water vapor is direct ly related to the warming of the atmosphere rather than a direct result of industrialization. When water vapor increases in the atmosphere, more of it will eventually also condense into clouds, which are more able to reflect incoming solar radiation. This will allow less energy to reach the Earth’s surface thereby affecting surface temperatures.
● Carbon Dioxide (CO 2). The natural production and absorption of CO 2 is achieved through the terrestrial biosphere and the ocean. Manmade sources of CO2 include the burning coal, oil, natural gas, and wood. Since the industrial revolution began in the mid ‐1700’s, these activities have increased the atmospheric concentrations of CO2. Prior to the industrial revolution, concentrations were fairly stable at 280 parts per million (ppm).
● Methane (CH 4). CH4 is an extremely effective absorber of radiation, although its atmospheric concentration is less than that of CO2. Methane’s lifetime in the atmosphere is brief (10 to 12 years), compared to some other GHGs (such as CO 2, N2O, and Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs). CH 4 has both natural and anthropogenic sources. It is released as part of the biological processes in low oxygen environments, such as in swamplands or in rice production (at the roots of the plants ● Nitrous Oxide (N 2O). Concentrations of N 2O also began to increase at the beginning of the industrial revolution. In 1998, the global concentration of this GHG was documented at 314 parts per billion (ppb). N 2O is produced by microbial processes in soil and water, including those reactions which occur in fertilizer containing nitrogen. In addition to agricultural sources, some industrial processes (fossil fuel ‐fired power plants, nylon production, nitric acid production, and vehicle emissions) also contribute to its atmospheric load. It is also com monly used as an aerosol spray propellant.
● Chlorofluorocarbons (CFC). CFCs are gases formed synthetically by replacing all hydrogen atoms in methane or ethane (C 2H6) with chlorine and/or fluorine atoms. CFCs are nontoxic, nonflammable, insoluble, and chemically unreactive in the troposphere (the level of air at the Earth’s surface). CFCs have no natural source but were first synthesized in 1928. It was used for refrigerants, aerosol propellants, and cleaning solvents. ● Hydrofluorocarbons (HFC). HFCs are synthetic man‐made chemicals that are used as a substitute for CFCs. Out of all the GHGs, they are one of three groups with the highest global warming potential. The HFCs with the largest measured atmospheric abundances are (in order), HFC ‐23 (CHF3), HFC ‐134a (CF 3CH2F), and HFC ‐152a (CH 3CHF2). Prior to 1990, the only significant emissions were HFC‐23. HFC‐134a use is increasing due to its use as a refrigerant. Concentrations of HFC ‐23 and HFC ‐134a in the atmosphere are n ow about 10 parts per trillion (ppt) each.

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Concentrations of HFC‐152a are about 1 ppt. HFCs are manmade and used for applications such as automobile air conditioners and refrigerants.
● Perfluorocarbons (PFC). PFCs have stable molecular structures and do not break down through the chemical processes in the lower atmosphere. High ‐energy ultraviolet rays about 60 kilometers above Earth’s surface are able to destroy the compounds. Because of this, PFCs have very long lifetimes, between 10,000 and 50,000 years. Two common PFCs are tetrafluoromethane (CF4) and hexafluoroethane (C2F6). Concentrations of CF 4 in the atmosphere are over 70 ppt. The two main sources of PFCs are primary aluminum production and semiconductor manufacturing. ● Sulfur Hexafluoride (SF6). SF6 is an inorganic, odorless, colorless, nontoxic, nonflammable gas. SF6 has the highest global warming potential of any gas evaluated; 23,900 times that of CO 2.

Concentrations in the 1990s where about 4 ppt. Sulfur hexafluoride is used for insulation in electric power transmission and distribution equipment, in the magnesium industry, in semiconductor manufacturing, and as a tracer gas for leak detection.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to greenhouse (GHG) impacts include the following:
● Federal Clean Air Act . USEPA is responsible for implementing the FCAA, which was enacted in 1963. The FCAA was amended in 1970, 1977, and 1990. Under the FCAA, USEPA has the authority to regulate GHG emissions and prescribe actions to potentially reduce those emissions. ● California Global Warming Solutions Act . The California Global Warming Solutions Act (also referred to as Assembly Bill [AB] 32) established a statewide GHG emissions cap for 2020, adopted reporting rules for significant sources of GHG, and adopted the Climate Change Scoping Plan, which itself identifies how GHG emissions reductions will be achieved. In 2016, SB 32 was enacted, which amended the California Global Warming Solutions Act. ● Senate Bill 375‐Redesigning Communities to Reduce Greenhouse Gases. SB 375, also known as the Sustainable Communities Strategy and Climate Protection Act, was enacted in September 2008.

SB 375 builds on the foundation of AB 32 by requiring the CARB to develop regional GHG emissions reduction targets for passenger vehicle and light ‐truck sectors for 2020 and 2035 as compared to 2005 levels.
● California Code of Regulations, Title 24, Part 11. California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen). CALGreen is a comprehensive and uniform regulatory code for all residential, commercial, and school buildings that went in effect on January 1, 2011. CALGreen is updated on a regular basis, with the most recent update consisting of the 2019 California Green Building Code Standards. Under State law, local jurisdictions are permitted to adopt more stringent requirements.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project generate greenhouse gas emissions, either directly or indirectly, that may have a significant impact on the environment? ● No New Impact.

As indicated in Table 3-5, the project’s total operational emissions would be 598 MTCO2E per year, which is still below the threshold of 3,00 MTCO2E per year for residential projects. The GHG emissions estimates reflect what a 50-unit subdivision of the same location and description would generate once fully operational. The type of activities that may be undertaken once the project is operational have been predicted and accounted for in the model for the selected land use type.

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Table 3-5 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Inventory
Source GHG Emissions (Metric Tons/Year)
CO2 CH4 N2O CO2E
Construction Emissions 5,555 0.23 0.05 5,577
Long-Term – Mobile Emissions 370 0.02 0.02 377
Long-Term - Area Emissions 0.62 <0.005 <0.005 0.62
Long-Term - Energy Emissions 191 0.02 <0.005 192
Long-Term (Operational) - Total Emissions 578 0.51 0.02 598 Significant Threshold 3,000
Source: CalEEMod V.2022.1.1.28

Furthermore, as mentioned in Section 3.17, Transportation, the projected vehicle trips to and from the site will not be significant given the proposed use is a residential development. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project conflict with an applicable plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing emissions of greenhouse gases? ● No New Impact.

The City of Indio has adopted a Climate Action Plan (CAP) in 2019 which identifies and mitigates significant greenhouse gas emissions at a programmatic level that allows for future projects that are below certain thresholds to refer to the CAP for environmental analysis. Projects that meet the threshold of 900 MTCO2E per year and are consistent with the General Plan and Zoning are exempt from further analysis . As shown in Table 3 -5, the proposed project is anticipated to generate 598 MTCO2E per year which is below the threshold. The proposed project would be consistent with the General Plan designation of Suburban Neighborhood High and the Zoning designation of Suburban Neighborhood -8 (SN-8). Therefore the proposed project is compliant with the City’s CAP. No substantial new information was identified in the assessmen t prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Greenhouse Gasses, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

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4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.9 HAZARDS & HAZARDOUS MATERIALS
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials?

B. Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment?

C. Would the project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? 
D. Would the project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment?

E. Would the project for a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area?

F. Would the project impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?

G. Would the project expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on hazards and hazardous materials if it results in any of the following :
● The proposed project would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials. ● The proposed project would create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment.
● The proposed project would emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school. ● The proposed project would be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment.

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● The p roposed project would result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport. ● The p roposed project would impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
● The proposed project would expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires.

Hazardous materials refer generally to hazardous substances that exhibit corrosive, poisonous, flammable, and/or reactive properties and have the potential to harm human health and/or the environment.

Hazardous materials are used in a wide variety of produ cts (household cleaners, industrial solvents, paint, pesticides, etc.) and in the manufacturing of products (e.g., electronics, newspapers, plastic products).

Hazardous materials can include petroleum, natural gas, synthetic gas, acutely toxic chemicals, a nd other toxic chemicals that are used in agriculture, commercial, and industrial uses; businesses; hospitals; and households. Accidental releases of hazardous materials can occur from a variety of causes, including highway incidents, warehouse fires, trai n derailments, shipping accidents, and industrial incidents.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to hazardous materials impacts include the following:
● Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)Notification Act. The FAA is required for the construction of any tower or the alteration of an antenna structure that is registered with the Commission’s Antenna Structure Registration (ASR) system. Generally, towers that meet certain height and location requirements (e.g., a re more than 200 feet above ground level and/or are located within proximity of an airport) require notice with the FAA and ASR system and must register with the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). A final determination of “no hazard” is required from the FAA prior to any construction or alteration of facilities. ● Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA maintains a national inventory of all existing chemicals used in U.S. commerce. In 1976, there were more than 60,000 chemicals on the market that had never been comprehensively cataloged. The EPA developed and implemented procedures that have served as a model for Canada, Japan, and the European Union. For the inventory, the EPA also established a baseline for new chemicals that the agency should be notified about before being commercially manufactured. Today, this rule keeps the EPA updated on volumes, uses, and exposures of around 7,000 of the highest-volume chemicals used in industry. ● California Environmental Protection Agency (CalEPA) . The CalEPA was formed in 1991 to preserve and protect the environment and to ensure public health and safety in relation to environmental laws and regulations. CalEPA manages the State’s natural resources in a cohesive, cabinet‐based system. Additionally, CalEPA implements the Unified Program, which ensures consistency in regard to the administrative and enforcement actions related to hazardous waste and materials.
● Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA) .

Commonly known as Superfund, the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act of 1980 established regulations concerning closed and abandoned hazardous waste sites. Additionally, it provided regulations regarding liability for clo sed and abandoned hazardous waste sites and established a trust fund for cleanup when no liability is found. ● California Department of Toxic Substances and Control (DTSC) . The DTSC is a sub ‐department

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under CalEPA and manages the federal hazardous waste program within the State. The DTSC regulates the lifecycle of hazardous waste and sets goals for reducing hazardous waste production.

The program follows federal and State law to ensure hazardous waste m anagers correctly handle, store, transport, dispose of, reduce, and clean waste, and are equipped in the event of an emergency.

Government Code §65962.5 (Cortese List) CalEPA is required by Section 65962.5 of the Government Code to develop and update a lis t of hazardous waste and substances sites, known as the Cortese List. The State Water Resources Control Board (SWRCB) and DTSC identify hazardous substance release sites included on the Cortese List, which is used by State and local agencies to ensure CEQA compliance.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through the routine transport, use, or disposal of hazardous materials? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project’s construction would require the use of diesel fuel to power the construction equipment. The diesel fuel would be properly sealed in tanks and would be transported to the site by truck.

Other hazardous materials that would be used on -site during the project’s construction phase include, but are not limited to, gasoline, solvents, architectural coatings (paint), fertilizers, and equipment lubricants.

The project site is not located on the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List - Site Cleanup (Cortese List).22 In addition, the project site is not identified on any Leaking Underground Storage Tank database (LUST). 23 A search through the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Envirostor database indicated that the project site was not included on any Federal or State clean up or Superfund lists. 24 Since the project site is not listed on any of the aforementioned databases, the likelihood of encountering contamination or other environmental concerns (leaking storage tanks, transformers, etc.) during the project’s construction phase is slim. Due to the residential nature of the proposed project (a 52 lot subdivision) , no hazardous materials beyond what is typically used in a household setting for routine cleaning and maintenance would be used once the project is occupied.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project create a significant hazard to the public or the environment through reasonably foreseeable upset and accident conditions involving the release of hazardous materials into the environment? ● No New Impact.

As stated previously, the project site is not identified on the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List - Site Cleanup (Cortese List); the Leaking Underground Storage Tank database (LUST) or the California Department of Toxic Substances Control’s Envirostor

22 CalEPA. DTSC’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List - Site Cleanup (Cortese List). http://www.dtsc.ca.gov.

23 CalEPA. Envirostor. https://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/map/?myaddress.

24 Ibid.

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database. Since the project site is not listed on any of the aforementioned databases, the likelihood of encountering contamination or other environmental concerns (leaking storage tanks, transformers, etc.) during the project’s construction phase is remote. Once the residential units are occupied, the project is not likely to create a hazard involving the accidental release of hazardous materials into the environment due to the nature of the proposed project (a 53 lot subdivision). No hazardous materials beyond what is typically used in a household setting for routine cleaning and maintenance would be used once the project is occupied. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

C. Would the project emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed school? ● No New Impact.

The nearest school to the project site is the Desert Leaders Charter School, located approximately 500 feet to the southwest of the site .25 The project’s construction would require the use of diesel fuel to power the construction equipment. The diesel fuel would be properly sealed in tanks and would be transported to the site by truck. Other hazardous materials that would be used on-site during the project’s construction phase include but are not limited to, gasoline, solvents, architectural coatings, and equipment lubricants. These products are strictly controlled and regulated and in the event of any spill, cleanup activities would be required to adhere to all pertinent protocols. As a result, the proposed project will not create a hazard to any local school . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an i mpact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

D. Would the project be located on a site which is included on a list of hazardous materials sites compiled pursuant to Government Code Section 65962.5 and, as a result, would it create a significant hazard to the public or the environment? ● No New Impact.

Government Code Section 65962.5 refers to the Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List, commonly known as the Cortese List. The Cortese List is a planning document used by the State and other local agencies to comply with CEQA requirements that require the provision of information regarding the location of hazardous materials release sites. A search was conducted through the California Department of Toxic Substances Control Envirostor website to identify whether the project site is listed in the database as a Cortese site. The project site is not identified as a Cortese site.26 No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

25 Google Earth. Website accessed September 1, 2023.

26 CalEPA. DTSC’s Hazardous Waste and Substances Site List - Site Cleanup (Cortese List).

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E. For a project located within an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or a public use airport, would the project result in a safety hazard or excessive noise for people residing or working in the project area? ● No New Impact.

The project site is not located within an airport land use plan for a public airport or public use airport. The nearest airport to the project site are the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport and Thermal Airport located approximately 4.06 miles southeast of the project site.27 The project site is not located within the approach or takeoff zones of either of the aforementioned airports. In addition, the project site is not located within the aforementioned airport’s designated compatibility review areas. Furthermore, the project site is not located within any 70 Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) contour line boundaries. 28 As a result, the proposed project will not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels related to airport uses . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

F. Would the project impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? ● No New Impact.

At no time will any local streets be completely closed to traffic during the proposed project’s construction.

Avenue 50 will undergo some improvement to accommodate the proposed streetscape improvements and new public roads. In addition, all construction staging must occur on-site. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

G. Would the project expose people or structures, either directly or indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury, or death involving wildland fires? ● No New Impact.

The project site is not located within a “very high fire hazard severity zone.”29 The project site is surrounded by urban development. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Hazardous Materials, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

27 Google Earth. Website accessed September 1, 2023.

28 Coffman Associates, Inc. Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Southern California Logistics Airport – Exhibit 2H. Report prepared September 2008.
29 CalFire. Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone Map for Riverside West. http://frap.fire.ca.gov/webdata/maps/riverside W/

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3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.10 HYDROLOGY & WATER QUALITY
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality?

B. Would the project substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin?

C. Would the project substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or off-site; substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner in which would result in flooding on- or off-site; create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; or, impede or redirect flood flows?

D. In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, would the project risk release of pollutants due to project inundation?  E. Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on hydrology and water quality if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality. ● The proposed project would substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin.
● The proposed project would substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would result in substantial erosion or siltation on - or off- site; substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner which would result in

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flooding on- or offsite; create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; or, impede or redirect flood flows.
● The proposed project would risk release of pollutants due to project inundation in flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones.
● The proposed project would conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to hydrology and water quality impacts include the following:
● Clean Water Act. The Clean Water Act is the principal Federal law that addresses water quality.

The act’s primary objectives are to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological integrity of the nation’s waters.” The implementation plan for these objectives includes the regulation of pollutant discharges to surface water, financial assistance for public wastewater treatment systems, technology development, and non-point source pollution prevention programs.

The Clean Water Act also establishes that states ado pt water quality standards to protect public health or welfare and to enhance the quality of water. The use and value of State waters for public water supplies, propagation of fish and wildlife, recreation, agriculture, industrial purposes, and navigation must also be considered by the states.
● National Pollutant Elimination Discharge System (NPDES). NCAS5000002 applies to Statewide construction activities including clearing, grading, or excavation that results in the disturbance of at least one acre of total land area, or activity which is part of a larger common plan of development of one acre or gr eater. In most cases, the NPDES permit program is administered by authorized states. In California, these programs are administered by the nine Regional Water Quality Control Boards ( RWQCBs) that i ssue NPDES permits and enforce regulations in their respective regions.

A requirement of the State General Construction Activity NPDES permit is the preparation of a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). The SWPPP must identify and implement best management practices (BMPs) to reduce impacts to surface water from contaminated stormwater discharges during the construction of the proposed action. Required elements of an SWPPP include the following: site description addressing the elements and characte ristics specific to the site; descriptions of BMPs for erosion and sediment controls; BMPs for waste handling and disposal; implementation of approved local plans; proposed post -construction control requirements; and non-stormwater management.
● California Water Code. The California Water Code is the principal State law regulating water quality in the State. Other State codes contain water quality provisions requiring compliance as they relate to specific activities. The California Water Code regulates water and its us es. Division 7 of the California Water Code, also known as the Porter -Cologne Water Quality Control Act, establishes a program to protect water quality and beneficial uses of the State water resources and includes both ground and su rface waters. The SWRCB and the RWQCBs are the principal State agencies responsible for control of water quality. They establish waste discharge requirements, oversee water quality control and monitoring, enforce discharge permits, and set groundwater and surface water quality objectives. They also prevent the waste and unreasonable use of water and adjudicate water rights.

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● Porter‐Cologne Water Quality Control Act. California’s primary statute governing water quality and water pollution issues with respect to both surface waters and groundwater is the Porter - Cologne Water Quality Control Act (Water Code Sections 13000, et seq.). The Porter -Cologne Act grants the SWRCB and the R WQCBs authority and responsibility to adopt plans and policies, to regulate discharges to surface and groundwater, to regulate waste disposal sites, and to require cleanup of discharges of hazardous ma terials and other pollutants. The Porter -Cologne Act also establishes reporting requirements for unintended discharges of any hazardous substance, sewage, or oil or petroleum product. Each RWQCB must formulate and adopt a water quality control plan for its region. The regional plans are to conform to the policies set forth in the Porter -Cologne Act and established by the SWRCB in its State water policy. The Porter -Cologne Act also provides that a RWQCB may include within its regional plan water discharge prohibitions applicable to particular conditions, areas, or types of waste.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project violate any water quality standards or waste discharge requirements or otherwise substantially degrade surface or groundwater quality? ● No New Impact.

The use of construction Best Management Practices (BMPs) identified in the mandatory Storm Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SW PPP) will prevent soil erosion and the discharge of sediment into the local storm drains during the project’s construction phase. As a result, the construction impacts will be less than significant. Once constructed, the project will not introduce polluted runoff into the existing storm drain system. In addition, the project will not create excess runoff that will exceed the capacity of the existing storm water drainage system. Currently, the entire project site is covered over in pervious surfaces and the stormwater runoff either percolates into the ground or is discharged off -site. Following the proposed project’s construction, the amount of pervious surfaces will be reduced. The new impervious surfaces (buildings, internal driveways, parking areas, etc.) that would be constructed may result in debris, leaves, soils, oil/grease, and other pollutants. As a result, the project Applicant will construct a stor mwater infiltration basin in the center and southeast corner of the project site (Lots A and B ). Runoff generated on-site will be conveyed into this infiltration basin where stormwater runoff will percolate into the ground, resulting the slow and controlled discharge of runoff into the subsurface. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project substantially decrease groundwater supplies or interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such that the project may impede sustainable groundwater management of the basin? ● No New Impact.

The grading and trenching that would be undertaken to accommodate the building footings, utility lines, and other underground infrastructure would not extend to depths required to encounter groundwater.

Therefore, no direct construction related impacts to groundwater supplies, or groundwater recharge activities would occur. The proposed units would be connected to the City’s water lines and would not result in a direct decrease in underlying groundwater supplies. Furthermore, t he construction and post - construction BMPs will filter out contaminants of concern from excess runoff, thereby preventing the contamination of local groundwater. In addition, the proposed infiltration basin would facilitate

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groundwater recharge. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. Would the project substantially alter the existing drainage pattern of the site or area, including through the alteration of the course of a stream or river or through the addition of impervious surfaces, in a manner which would result in substantial erosi on or siltation on - or off -site; substantially increase the rate or amount of surface runoff in a manner in which would result in flooding on- or off-site; create or contribute runoff water which would exceed the capacity of existing or planned stormwater drainage systems or provide substantial additional sources of polluted runoff; or, impede or redirect flood flows? ● No New Impact.

The project’s construction will be restricted to the project site and the project will not alter the course of any stream or river that would lead to on - or off-site siltation or erosion. The project’s construction would be restricted to the site and would not alter the course of any stream or channel or river that would lead to on- or off -site siltation or erosion. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact t hat is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

D. In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, would the project risk release of pollutants due to project inundation? ● No New Impact.

According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) flood insurance maps obtained for the project area, the proposed project site is located in Zone X. 34 Thus, properties located in Zone X are not located within a 100 -year flood plain. The proposed project site is not located in an area that is subject to inundation by seiche or tsunami . The nearest surface water sources are small ponds located within the Indian Palms Country Club and Resort, located approximately 750 feet west of the project site. In addition, the project site is located inland approximately 76 miles from the Pacific Ocean and the project site would not be exposed to the effects of a tsunami. 30 No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

E. Would the project conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water quality control plan or sustainable groundwater management plan? ● No New Impact.

The City of Indio is responsible for implementing the NPDES and MS4 stormwater runoff requirements. In addition, the project’s operation will not interfere with any groundwater management or recharge plan because there are no active groundwater management recharge activities on-site or in the vicinity. As future projects are planned, they must adhere to applicable policies (such as Policy IE-1.3 NPDES Compliance) and Code of Ordinances regulations; therefore, potential impacts to hydrology or water quality associated with th e GPU would be less than significant. No substantial new information was identified in the

34 Federal Emergency Management Agency. Flood Insurance Rate Mapping Program. 2020.

30 Google Earth. Website accessed February 25, 2025.

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assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Hydrology and Water Quality, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.11 LAND USE & PLANNING
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project physically divide an established community?  B. Would the project cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an
environmental effect?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, acting as Lead Agency, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on mineral resources if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would physically divide an established community. ● The proposed project would cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to land use and planning impacts include the following:
● California Planning and Zoning Law. The legal framework under which California cities and counties exercise local planning and land use functions is set forth in California Planning and Zoning Law, Government Code Sections 65000–66499.58. Under State planning law, each city and

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county must adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan. State law provides cities and counties wide latitude in how a jurisdiction may create a general plan, There are certain requirements that must be met including the inclusion of seven mandatory elem ents described in the Government Code, including a section on land use. Each of the elements must contain text and descriptions setting forth objectives, principles, standards, policies, and plan proposals; diagrams and maps that incorporate data and analysis; and mitigation measures. ● Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). SCAG is the regional planning organization for six counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and Imperial. The region encompasses a population exceeding 19 million in an area of more than 38,000 square miles. As the designated Cou ncil of Governments (COG), the Federal government mandates SCAG to research and develop plans for transportation, growth management, hazardous waste management, and air quality. These mandates led SCAG to prepare comprehensive regional plans to address the se concerns. SCAG is responsible for the maintenance of a continuous, comprehensive, and coordinated planning process resulting in a regional transportation plan.

SCAG is also responsible for the development of demographic projections and the integrated la nd use, housing, employment, transportation programs, measures, and strategies for the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP).

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project physically divide an established community? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project would involve the approval of a 53-lot subdivision within a 7.68-acre property. The property has a General Plan Land Use Designation of Suburban Neighborhood High which has a four dwelling units per acre minimum density and an eight dwelling units per acre maximum density . The proposed project would have a density of 6.5 dwelling units per acre . The proposed lots range from 4,500 square feet to 6,896 square feet. The project site is currently vacant and extensively disturbed though it has been previously developed with a now -demolished ranch house . 31 Land uses and development located in the vicinity of the proposed project are outlined below:
● North of the project site: Vacant land is located to the north of the project site. The land appears to be used as part of a planned single -family residential development based on aerial imagery however, the site is vacant as of this document’s creation. This area is zoned as Suburban Neighborhood - 8 (SN – 8) and the General Plan designation is Suburban Neighborhood High.32 ● West of the project site: A vacant parcel and a date palm farm with a single-family home is located to the west of the project site. Single -family homes and a grocery store are located between the vacant parcel and Jackson Street. This area is zoned as NC (Neighborhood Center) and the General Plan designation is Neighborhood Center.33

31 Blodgett Baylosis Environmental Planning. Site visit was conducted on February 16, 2025. 32 Google Maps and County of Riverside Zoning Map. Website accessed on February 24, 2025. 33 Google Maps and County of Riverside Zoning Map. Website accessed on February 24, 2025.

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● South of the project site: Avenue 50 extends along the project site’s south side. Plant nurseries are located further south of Avenue 50. located on the project site’s south side. This area is zoned as A- 1 (Light Agriculture) and the General Plan designation is Estate Density Residential.34 ● East of the project site: A church extends along the east of the project site. This area is zoned as Suburban Neighborhood-8 (SN–8) and the General Plan designation is Suburban Neighborhood High.35
The proposed project will be confined within the project site’s boundaries. The granting of the requested entitlements and subsequent construction of the proposed project will not result in any expansion of the use beyond the current boundaries. As a result, the project will not lead to any division of an existing established neighborhood. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project cause a significant environmental impact due to a conflict with any land use plan, policy, or regulation adopted for the purpose of avoiding or mitigating an environmental effect? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project is a residential development that would not physically divide an established community. The project site has a Zoning land use designation of Suburban Neighborhood 8 (SN 8) and a General Plan designation of Suburban Neighborhood High . According to the City’s Unified Development Code Table 2.02.02-1 Allowed Uses -Residential Zones , single -family dwellings are permitted by right within SN 8 zones. The property has a General Plan Land Use Designation of Suburban Neighborhood High which has a four dwelling units per acre minimum density and an eight dwelling units per acre maximum density. The proposed project would have a density of 6.5 dwelling units per acre. The proposed lots range from 4,500 square feet to 6,896 square feet. The proposed project is consistent with the applicable Zoning and General Plan designation and does not conflict with any applicable policy or regulation of an agency with jur isdiction over the project. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Land Use, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

34 Ibid.
35 Ibid.

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3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.12 MINERAL RESOURCES
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the State?

B. Would the project result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on mineral resources if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would result in the loss of availability of a known mineral resource that would be of value to the region and the residents of the state. ● The proposed project would result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to mineral resources impacts include the following:
● Surface Mining and Reclamation Act. The Surface Mining and Reclamation Act of 1975 (SMARA) has developed mineral land classification maps and reports to assist in the protection and development of mineral resources. According to the SMARA, the following four mineral land use classifications are identified:
- Mineral Resource Zone 1 (MRZ-1): This land use classification refers to areas where adequate information indicates that no significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that little likelihood exists for their presence.
- Mineral Resource Zone 2 (MRZ-2): This land use classification refers to areas where adequate information indicates that significant mineral deposits are present, or where it is judged that a high likelihood for their presence exists.
- Mineral Resource Zone 3 (MRZ -3): This land use classification refers to areas where the significance of mineral deposits cannot be evaluated from the available data. Hilly or mountainous areas underlain by sedimentary, metamorphic, or igneous rock types and lowland

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areas underlain by alluvial wash or fan material are often included in this category. Additional information about the quality of material in these areas could either upgrade the classification to MRZ-2 or downgraded it to MRZ-1.
- Mineral Resource Zone 4 (MRZ-4): This land use classification refers to areas where available information is inadequate for assignment to any other mineral resource zone. ● California Department of Conservation (CDOC). The CDOC is responsible for conducting rulemakings to adopt and amend regulations covering a variety of issue areas. On March 20, 2019, the Office of Administrative Law approved the Idle Well Testing and Management Regulations. The CDOC also maintains the “CalGEM” well-finder mapping site.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
D. Would the project expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations? ● No New Impact.

The project site is located in a MRZ-1 zone according the Indio General Plan EIR (refer to Figure 4.11-1) the project site is not located in a M ineral Resource Zone .36 A review of California Division of Oil, Gas, and Geothermal Resources well finder indicates that there are no wells located within the project site. The implementation of the proposed project would not result in the loss of availability of a know n mineral resource. As indicated previously, the site develop and there are no active mineral extraction activities occurring on -site or in the adjacent properties. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project result in the loss of availability of a locally important mineral resource recovery site delineated on a local general plan, specific plan or other land use plan? ● No New Impact.

As previously mentioned, no mineral, oil, or energy extraction and/or generation activities are located within the project site. Moreover, the proposed project will not interfere with any resource extraction activity. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Mineral Resources, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

36 Rincon Consultants, Inc. Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Indio General Plan Update. June 2019.

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3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.13 NOISE
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies?

B. Would the project result in generation of excessive groundborne vibration or groundborne noise levels?  C. For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or- an airport land use plan, or where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on noise if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies. ● The proposed project would result in the generation of excessive ground borne vibration or ground borne noise levels.
● For a proposed project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the project area t o excessive noise levels?
Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to noise impacts include the following:
● The Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The FHWA has established noise exposure standards for different land uses that apply to the planning and design of Federally funded highway projects.
● The Federal Transportation Administration (FTA). The FTA has established g round borne vibration levels resulting from construction activities. Construction equipment vibration levels

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were published by the FTA. Using this vibration construction equipment data published by the FTA, it is possible to estimate a project’s vibration impacts. ● The Noise Control Act of 1972. This Act authorized the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to publish descriptive data on the effects of noise and establish levels of sound requisite to protect public welfare with an adequate margin of safety.
● The California Department of Transportation (CalTrans). CalTrans has established policies and procedures for traffic noise studies in conformance with 23 CFR 772. The Protocol is required in order to obtain FHWA approval for transportation projects authorized under title 23, United States Code. The 2011 Protocol, came into effect on Ju ly 13, 2011. The 2011 Protocol has since been superseded by the 2020 Protocol.
● The California Motor Vehicle Code. The California Motor Vehicle Code establishes noise standards for those areas not regulated by the Federal government. State standards regulate the noise levels of motor vehicles and motorboats; establish noise impact boundaries around airports; regulate freeway noise affecting classrooms, sound transmission control and occupational noise control; and identify noise insulation standards.
● California Administrative Code, Title 24, Building Standards, Chapter 2.35, Title 24 outlines noise insulation performance standards to protect persons within new hotels, motels, apartment houses, and dwellings other than detached single-family dwellings. ● The State of California Recommended Noise and Land Use Compatibility Guidelines. The State of California Office of Planning and Research (OPR) Noise Element Guidelines include recommended interior and exterior level standards for local jurisdictions to identify and prevent the creation of incompatible land uses due to noise. The OPR Guidelines describe the compatibility of various land uses with a range of environmental noise levels in terms of dBA CNEL (Community Noise Equivalent Level). For example, a n oise environment of 50 dBA CNEL to 60 dBA CNEL is considered to be “normally acceptable” for residential uses. The State indicates that locating residential units, parks, and institutions (such as churches, schools, libraries, and hospitals) in areas where exterior ambient noise levels exceed 65 dBA CNEL is undesirable.

Noise levels may be described using a number of methods designed to evaluate the “loudness” of a particular noise. The most commonly used unit for measuring the level of sound is the decibel (dB). Zero on the decibel scale represents the lowest limit of so und that can be heard by humans. The eardrum may rupture at 140 dB. In general, an increase of between 3.0 dB and 5.0 dB in the ambient noise level is considered to represent the threshold for human sensitivity. Noise level increases of 3.0 dB or less are not generally perceptible to persons with average hearing abilities. The most commonly used unit for measuring the level of sound is the decibel (dB). Zero on the decibel scale represents the lowest limit of sound that can be heard by humans.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project result in generation of a substantial temporary or permanent increase in ambient noise levels in the vicinity of the project in excess of standards established in the local general plan or noise ordinance, or applicable standards of other agencies? ● No New Impact.

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The proposed project would be a 5 3-lot residential subdivision. The proposed project site consists of approximately 7.68 acres that would include 50 lots for single -family residences and two open space lots for stormwater detention basins. The City’s GPU PEIR includes land use compatibility standards in Table

4.12-3 Land Use Compatibility Matrix which for single -family residences considers under 60 CNEL to be acceptable, 60 through 70 CNEL to be conditionally acceptable, and beyond 70 CNEL u nacceptable.37 As shown in Figure 4.12-1 Existing Noise Contours, residential developments within the project site would be located beyond the 60 CNEL contour, which is considered acceptable for single -family residences. 38 The City of Indio’s Code of Ordinances Chapter 95C Noise Control does not set specific noise standards to control and abate noise and vibration. Chapter 95C includes conduct prohibited by the Code, including general prohibitions, specific prohibited noises and conduct, and limited uses within certain time periods or subject to approval by the City, and exemptions. Construction is limited to the hours of 7:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. on Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. through 6:00 p.m. on Saturday, 9:00 a.m. thro ugh 5:00 p.m. on Sunday and Government Holidays during Pacific Standard Time. The only differences in Pacific Daylight Time are construction permitted to start one hour earlier on Monday through Saturday. The construction of the project would generate short -term noise impacts. Construction activities have a temporary duration. Groundborne noise and other types of construction related noise impacts would typically occur during the initial site preparation, which can create the highest levels of noise. Genera lly, site preparation has the shortest duration of all construction phases. Activities that occur during this phase include earthmoving and soils compaction. High groundborne noise levels can occur during this phase due to haul trucks, backhoes, and other heavy-duty construction equipment. Construction activities have the potential to expose adjacent land uses to noise levels between 70 and 90 decibels at 50 feet from the noise source. The degree of noise impact would be dependent upon the distance between the construction activity and the noise receptor. With compliance to the Code of Ordinances , less than significant impacts would occur. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

B. Would the project result in generation of excessive ground -borne vibration or ground -borne noise levels? ● No New Impact.

The nearest noise-sensitive receptors are single family homes located approximately 35 feet north and east of the project site. The construction of the proposed project will result in the generation of vibration and noise, though the vibrations and noise generated during the project’s construction will not adversely impact the nearby residential sensitive receptors. The background vibration velocity level in residential areas is usually around 50 vibration velocity level (VdB). The vibration velocity level threshold of perception for humans is approximately 65 VdB. A vibration velocity of 75 VdB is the approximately dividing line between barely perceptible and distinctly perceptible levels for many people. Sources within buildings such as operation of mechanical equipment, movement of people, or the slamming of doors causes most perceptible indoor vibration. Construction activities may result in varying degrees of ground vibration, depending on the types of equipment, the characteristics of the soil, and the age and construction of nearby buildings.

The operation of construction equipment causes ground vibrations that spread through the ground and diminish in strength with distance. Ground vibrations associated with construction activities using modern

37 Rincon Consultants, Inc. Final Environmental Impact Report for the City of Indio General Plan Update. June 2019 38 Ibid.

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construction methods and equipment rarely reach the levels that result in damage to nearby buildings though vibration related to construction activities may be discernible in areas located near the construction site. A possible exception is in older buildi ngs where special care must be taken to avoid damage. The U.S.

Department of Transportation (U.S. DOT) has guidelines for vibration levels from construction related to their activities and recommends that the maximum peak -particle-velocity (PPV) levels rem ain below 0.05 inches per second at the nearest structures. PPV refers to the movement within the ground of molecular particles and not surface movement. Vibration levels above 0.5 inches per second have the potential to cause architectural damage to normal dwellings. The U.S. DOT also states that vibration levels above 0.015 inches per second (in/sec) are sometimes perceptible t o people, and the level at which vibration becomes an irritation to people is 0.64 inches per second.

Typical levels from vibration generally do not have the potential for any structural damage. Some construction activities, such as pile driving and blasting, can produce vibration levels that may have the potential to damage some vibration sensitive structures if performed within 50 to 100 feet of the structure.

The reason that normal construction vibration does not result in structural damage has to do with several issues, including the frequency vibration and magnitude of construction related vibration. Unlike earthquakes, which produce vibration at very low frequencies and have a high potential for structural damage, most construction vibration is in the mid - to upper- frequency range, and therefore has a lower potential for structural damage.

The project’s implementation would not require deep foundations since the underlying fill soils will be removed and the height of the proposed buildings will be limited. The residential buildings would be constructed over a shallow foundation that will ext end no more than three to four feet below the ground surface (bgs). The use of shallow foundations precludes the use of pile drivers or any auger type equipment.

However, other vibration generating equipment may be used on -site during construction. As stated above, the project will require the use of excavators, loaders, bulldozers, and haul trucks. Vibration resulting from the operation of empty haul trucks may affect the residents located east and north of the project site. Once operational, the proposed project will not generate excessive ground -borne noise because the project will not require the use of equipment capable of creating ground -borne noise. The project will be required to adhere to all pertinent City noise control regulations. In addition, the cumulative traffic associated with the proposed project will not be great enough to result in a measurable or perceptible increase in traffic noise (it typically requires a doubling of traffic volumes to increase the ambient noise levels to 3.0 dBA or greater).

Once in operation, the proposed project would not significantly increase ground borne noise levels. Slight increases in ground-borne noise levels could occur during the construction phase. The limited duration of construction activities and the Ci ty’s construction -related noise control requirements would reduce the potential impacts.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. For a project located within the vicinity of a private airstrip or an airport land use plan or, where such a plan has not been adopted, within two miles of a public airport or public use airport, would the project expose people residing or working in the p roject area to excessive noise levels? ● No New Impact.

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The project site is not located within an airport land use plan for a p ublic airport or public use airport. 39 The nearest airport to the project site are the Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport and Thermal Airport located approximately 4.06 miles southeast of the project site .40 The project site is not located within the approach or takeoff zones of either of the aforementioned airports. In addition, the project site is not located within the aforementioned airport’s designated compatibility review areas. 41 Furthermore, the project site is not located within any 70 Community Noise Equivalent Level (CNEL) contour line boundaries. 42 As a result, the proposed project will not expose people residing or working in the project area to excessive noise levels related to airport uses. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Noise, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.14 POPULATION & HOUSING

39 Toll-Free Airline. Riverside County Public and Private Airports, California. http://www.tollfreeairline.com/california/losangeles.htm.

40 Google Earth. Website accessed February 14, 2025.

41 Ibid.

42 Coffman Associates, Inc. Comprehensive Land Use Plan – Southern California Logistics Airport – Exhibit 2H. Report prepared September 2008.

Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)?

B. Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere?


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THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on population and housing if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure).
● The p roposed project would displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to population and housing impacts include the following:
● California Planning and Zoning Law. The legal framework under which California cities and counties exercise local planning and land use functions is set forth in California Planning and Zoning Law, Government Code Sections 65000–66499.58. Under State planning law, each city and county must adopt a comprehensive, long-term general plan. State law provides cities and counties wide latitude in how a jurisdiction may create a general plan, There are certain requirements that must be met including the inclusio n of seven mandatory elements described in the Government Code, including a section on land use and housing. Each of the elements must contain text and descriptions setting forth objectives, principles, standards, policies, and plan proposals; diagrams and maps that incorporate data and analysis; and mitigation measures. ● Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG). SCAG is the regional planning organization for six counties: Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino, Riverside, Ventura, and Imperial. The region encompasses a population exceeding 19 million in an area of more than 38,000 square miles. As the designated Cou ncil of Governments (COG), the Federal government mandates SCAG to research and develop plans for transportation, growth management, hazardous waste management, and air quality. These mandates led SCA G to prepare comprehensive regional plans to address these concerns. SCAG is responsible for the maintenance of a continuous, comprehensive, and coordinated planning process resulting in a regional transportation plan.

SCAG is also responsible for the deve lopment of demographic projections and the integrated land use, housing, employment, transportation programs, measures, and strategies for the Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP).

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project induce substantial unplanned population growth in an area, either directly (for example, by proposing new homes and businesses) or indirectly (for example, through extension of roads or other infrastructure)? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project would involve the approval of a 5 3-lot subdivision within a 7.68 -acre property. The property has a General Plan Land Use Designation of Suburban Neighborhood High which has four dwelling units per acre minimum density and eight dwelling units per acre maximum density. The proposed project would have a density of 6.5 dwelling units per acre. The proposed lots range from 4,500 square feet to 6,896 square feet. The project site is currently vacant and extensively disturbed though it has been

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previously developed with a now -demolished ranch house . Growth-inducing impacts are generally associated with the provision of urban services to an undeveloped or rural area. Growth -inducing impacts include the following:
● New development in an area presently undeveloped and economic factors which may influence development. The site is currently undeveloped though it has been designated for development with a permitted density of a four dwelling units per acre minimum and an eight dwelling units per acre maximum.
● Extension of roadways and other transportation facilities. Future roadway and infrastructure connections in the vicinity of the project site would serve the proposed residential development. ● Extension of infrastructure and other improvements. The installation of any new utility lines will not lead to subsequent offsite development since these utility connections will serve the site only.

At present, there are water or sewer utility lines within the immediate area of the project site. The project’s potential utility impacts are analyzed in Section 3.19. ● Major off-site public projects (treatment plants, etc.). The project’s increase in demand for utility services can be accommodated without the construction or expansion of landfills, water treatment plants, or wastewater treatment plants. The project’s potential utility impacts are further analyzed in Section 3.19.
● The removal of housing requiring replacement housing elsewhere. The site does not contain any housing units. As a result, no replacement housing will be required. ● Additional population growth leading to increased demand for goods and services. The proposed project would involve the subdivision of a 7.68-acre lot into 53 separate lots including 50 residential lots. The lots would be “for sale” units. Assuming an average household size of 2.97 persons per unit (this average household size applies to the project), a total of 149 new residents would potentially occupy the 50 residential lots.
● Short-term growth-inducing impacts related to the project’s construction. The project will result in temporary employment during the construction phase.

The proposed project will utilize existing roadways and infrastructure. The existing roads and utility lines will serve the project site only and will not extend into undeveloped areas. According to the Growth Forecast Appendix prepared by SCAG for the 2016-2040 RTP/SCS, the population of the City of Indio would increase from 88,100 (2016 estimates) to 129,300 residents in 2045. This represents an increase of 41,200 residents.43 The proposed project would involve the subdivision of 50 residential lots. Although the proposed project would not involve the development of the lots, it is assumed the lots would be used for single-family residences. Assuming an average household size of 2.97 persons per unit based on household figures from Table E -5 of the California Department of Finance January 1, 2024 Population and Housing Estimates, a total of 149 new residents would occupy the development. Therefore, the proposed project is not in conflict with the growth projections established for the City by SCAG. The proposed project will not result in any unplanned growth. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially r esult in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

43 Southern California Association of Governments. Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy 2016-2040.

Demographics & Growth Forecast. April 2016.

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B. Would the project displace substantial numbers of existing people or housing, necessitating the construction of replacement housing elsewhere? ● No New Impact.

The project site is vacant and unoccupied. The site is located within an area zoned for residential development. The proposed project would involve the subdivision of 50 residential lots . The units would be “for sale” units. Assuming an average household size of 2.97 persons per unit, a total of 149 new residents would occupy the proposed development. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Population and Housing, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.15 PUBLIC SERVICES
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which would cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times, or other performance objectives for: fire protection; police protection; schools; parks; or other public facilities?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on public services if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts,

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in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for any of the public services: fire protection, police protection, schools, parks or other public facilities.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to public services impacts include the following:
● California Code of Regulations Title 24 – Fire Codes. California Code of Regulations Title 24 refers to the California Building Standards Code (CBSC), which contains complete regulations and general construction building standards of State agencies, including administrative, fire and life safety and field in spection provisions. Part 2, the California Building Code (CBC), was updated in 2008 to reflect changes in the base document from the Uniform Building Code to the International Building Code. In partic ular, CBC Chapter 7A, Materials and Construction Methods for Exterior Wildfire Exposure, addresses fire safety standards for new construction. CBC Chapter 33, Safeguards During Construction, includes emergency access requirements for new construction.

CBSC Part 9 refers to the California Fire Code, which contains other fire safety -related building standards.
● Senate Bill 50. Senate Bill (SB) 50 Senate Bill 50 (the Leroy F. Greene School Facilities Act of 1998), adopted in 1998, defined the school impact fee needs analysis process in Government Code Sections 65995.5– 65998. Pursuant to its provisions, school districts may collect fees to offset t he costs associated with increasing school capacity as a result of development. By statute, payment of a statutory fee by developers serves as the total mitigation of the potential impact of a development on school facilities pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). ● California Fire Code. The California Fire Code exists within Part 9 of the California Building Code, and includes measures for emergency planning preparation and safety. Examples of fire safety requirements include installation of sprinklers in all high ‐rise buildings; the establishment of fire resistance standards for fire doors, building materials, and particular types of construction; and the clearance of debris and vegetation within a prescribed distance from occupied structures in wildlife hazard areas.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which would cause significant environmental impacts, in fire protection; police protection; schools; parks; or other public facilities? ● No New Impact.

Fire Department
The Riverside County Fire Department Station No. 86 (46990 Jackson Street) located approximately 1.52 miles north of the site is the nearest fire station to the project site . The Fire Department currently reviews all new development plans. The proposed project will be required to conform to all fire protection and prevention requirements, including, but not limited to, building setbacks, emergency access, and fire flow (or the flow rate of water that is available for extinguishing fires). The proposed project would only place an incremental demand on fire services since the project will be constructed with strict adherence to all pertinent building and fire codes. In addition, t he proposed project would be required to implement all pertinent Fire Code Standards including the installation of fire hydrants and sprinkler systems inside the buildings. Furthermore, the project will be reviewed by the City and County Fire officials to ensure adequate

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fire service and safety as a result of project implementation. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

Law Enforcement
Law enforcement services are provided by the Indio Police Department. The Department operates out of a facility located at 46800 Jackson Street (located approximately 1.53 miles north of the site. The proposed residential development will also be required to comply with the City’s security requirements. The proposed residential development would place an incremental de3mand on law enforcement services. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

Schools
The City of Indio is served by the Coachella Valley Unified School District ( CVUSD). The current development fee for residential development is $4.79 per square foot. The proposed project would be responsible to contribute development impact fees to the CVUSD. As a result, the impacts on school- related services will be less than significant . The new units would be “for sale” units. Assuming an average household size of 2. 97 persons per unit (this average household size applies to the project), a total of 149 new residents would occupy the 50 residential lots . Pursuant to SB -50, payment of fees to the applicable school district is considered full mitigation for project -related impacts. The proposed project's school enrollment impacts will be offset by the school fees that will be paid by the developer . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

Recreational Services
The nearest public park to the project site is the Rancho Las Flores Park and Event Venue . The project would be required to comply with the City’s parkland in -lieu fee (Quimby) and other development impact fees requirements. The occupancy of the 50 lots would not substantially increase the use of existing parks to accelerate their physical deterioration . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

Governmental Services
The proposed project would not require any additional government services. As a result, the impacts would be less than significant.

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Public Services, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

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2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.16 RECREATION
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated?

B. Would the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on public services if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would result in substantial adverse physical impacts associated with the provision of new or physically altered governmental facilities, need for new or physically altered governmental facilities, the construction of which could cause significant environmental impacts, in order to maintain acceptable service ratios, response times or other performance objectives for

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated? ● No New Impact.

The units would be “for sale” units. Assuming an average household size of 2. 97 persons per unit (this average household size applies to the project), a total of 149 new residents would occupy the 50 residential lots. The project Applicant will be required to pay Quimby Act . The payment of all required development fees will ensure that impacts to parks, recreation, and community services remain at levels that are addressed. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

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B. Would the project include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment? ● No New Impact.

The project Applicant will be required to pay Quimby Act. The payment of all required development fees will ensure that impacts to parks, recreation, and community services remain at levels that are addressed .

No such facilities are located adjacent to the project site . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Recreation, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.17 TRANSPORTATION
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project conflict with a plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities?

B. Conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines §15064.3 subdivision (b)? 
C. Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? 
D. Would the project result in inadequate emergency access? 

THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines , a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on recreation if it results in any of the following:

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● The proposed project would increase the use of existing neighborhood and regional parks or other recreational facilities such that substantial physical deterioration of the facility would occur or be accelerated.
● The proposed project would include recreational facilities or require the construction or expansion of recreational facilities which might have an adverse physical effect on the environment.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to transportation impacts include the following:
● Senate Bill 743 (Steinberg ). SB 743 requires the California Governor’s Office of Planning and Research to amend the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines to provide an alternative to LOS as the metric for evaluating transportation impacts under CEQA. SB 743 requires the alternative criteria to promote the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions, development of multimodal transportation networks, and diversity of land uses. The alternative metric for transportation impacts detailed in the CEQA Guidelines is VMT. Jurisd ictions had until July 1, 2020 to adopt and begin implementing Vehicle Miles Travelled (VMT) thresholds for traffic analysis. Prior to July 1, 2020, jurisdictions had the option to continue using LOS analysis or converting to VMT analysis once such thresho lds were adopted. Technical Advisory on Evaluating Transportation Impacts in CEQA
● Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy . The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is the designated metropolitan planning organization for six Southern California counties (Ventura, Los Angeles, San Bernardino, Riverside, Orange, and Imperial). As the designated metropolitan planning organization, SCAG is mandated by the Federal and State governments to prepare plans for regional transportation and air quality conformity. The most recent plan adopted by SCAG is the 2020 -2050 Connect SoCal 2050. The Plan integrates transportation planning with economic development and sustainability planning and aims to comply with State greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals, such as SB 375.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project conflict with a program, plan, ordinance, or policy addressing the circulation system, including transit, roadway, bicycle and pedestrian facilities? ● No New Impact.

The trip generation for the proposed project is based on the trip generation rates for Land Use 210 – “Single- Family Detached Housing” included in the Institute of Transportation Engineers’ (ITE) Trip Generation, 10th Edition. Table 3-6 shows the calculation of the project trip generation for the AM peak hour, PM peak hour, and weekday.

Table 3-6 Project Trip Generation
Land Use Units
AM Peak Hour PM Peak Hour
Daily
In Out Total In Out Total
Single Family ITE Code 210 25% 75% 0.74 63% 37% 0.99 9.44 50 units 9 28 37 31 19 50 472 Trips

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As shown in Table 3 -6, the proposed project is forecast to generate 37 total trips in the AM peak hour, 50 total trips in the PM peak hour, and 472 daily trips. Given the relatively low trip generation impacts, no changes in the level of service (LOS) would result. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project conflict or be inconsistent with CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 subdivision (b)? ● No New Impact.

The City of Indio has yet to adopt their own VMT guidelines , therefore, the County of Riverside Transportation Analysis Guidelines for Level of Service Vehicle Miles Traveled dated December 2020, will be used for VMT screening criteria. Figure 3 -Screening Criteria for Development Projects includes screening criteria which were evaluated for their applicability to the proposed project including Small Projects screening. Within the Small Project screening criteria, projects with GHG emissions below 3,000 MTCO2e per year are presumed to cause a less than significant impact on VMT. As indicated in Table 3 -5 within Section 3.8, the project’s total operational emissions would be 598 MTCO 2E per year, which is still below the threshold of 3,00 0 MTCO2E per year therefore the proposed project is presumed to have a less than significant VMT impact. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. Would the project substantially increase hazards due to a geometric design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm equipment)? ● No New Impact.

Three proposed public streets, Cherry Street, Apple Lane, and Peach Lane, would provide access throughout the site. Access to the site would be provided by a 50-foot right-of-way, Cherry Street, extending north from Avenue 50. Cherry Street would hook east and terminate in a cul-de-sac on the eastern boundary of the site.

Cherry Street would serve the northernmost lots of the site. Apple Lane would extend east from Cherry Street, south of where Cherry Street turns east, and terminate in a cul -de-sac. Peach Lane would extend east from Cherry Street, south of Apple Lane, and would terminate in a cul -de-sac. All proposed streets would be 50-foot rights-of-way which include curbs, gutters, and sidewalks . The north side of Avenue 50, which extends across the project site would also be improved with a curb, gutter, sidewalk, and paving. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipat ed in the GPU PEIR .

D. Would the project result in inadequate emergency access? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project would not affect emergency access to any adjacent parcels. A t no time during construction will Avenue 50 or the adjacent streets be completely closed to traffic. All construction staging must occur on-site. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

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CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Transportation, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.18 TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place?

B. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an object with cultural value to a California Native American Tribe, and that is: Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or a resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1 In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American Tribe5020.1(k)?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on tribal cultural resources if it results in any of the following:
● The p roposed project would cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k). ● The p roposed project would cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place,

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cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place, or object with cultural value to a California Native American tribe, and that is a resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion an d supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1? In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resources Code Section 5024.1, the lead agenc y shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to tribal resources impacts include the following:
● Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). In 1976, the California State Government passed AB 4239, creating the Native American Heritage Commission (NAHC). The NAHC is responsible for identifying and categorizing Native American cultural resources as well as preventing damages to designated sacred sites and associated artifacts and remains. ● The Native American Historic Resource Protection Act . The Native American Historic Resource Protection Act, or Assembly Bill (AB 52), defines guidelines for reducing conflicts between Native Americans and development projects and activities. Projects are subject to AB 52 if a notice of preparation for an EIR is filed or a notice of intent to adopt a Negative or Mitigated Negative Declaration is filed on or after July 1, 2016. “Tribal cultural resources” (TCR) are protected under CEQA and are defined as a site, feature, place, cultural landscape (must include the size and scope of landscape), sacred place, and object with a cultural value to a California Native American tribe that is either included or eligible for inclusion in the California Register, or i ncluded in a local register of historical resources.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of a tribal cultural resource, defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 as either a site, feature, place, cultural landscape that is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape, sacred place?, or object with cultural value to a California Native American Tribe, and that is: listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical resources as defined in Public Resou rces Code section 5020.1(k), or a resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1 In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American Tribe? ● No New Impact.

Tribal Resource is defined in Public Resources Code section 21074 and includes the following:
● Sites, features, places, cultural landscapes, sacred places, and objects with cultural value to a California Native American tribe that are either of the following: included or determined to be eligible for inclusion in the California Register of Historical Resources or included in a local register of historical resources as defined in subdivision (k) of Section 5020.1. ● A resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Section 5024.1. In applying the

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criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Section 5024.1 for the purposes of this paragraph, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American tribe. ● A cultural landscape that meets the criteria of subdivision (a) is a tribal cultural resource to the extent that the landscape is geographically defined in terms of the size and scope of the landscape. ● A historical resource described in Section 21084.1, a unique archaeological resource as defined in subdivision (g) of Section 21083.2, or a “non-unique archaeological resource” as defined in subdivision (h) of Section 21083.2 may also be a tribal cultural resource if it conforms to the criteria of subdivision (a).

Adherence to the standard condition presented in Subsection B under Cultural Resources will minimize potential impacts. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. Would the project cause a substantial adverse change in the significance of an object with cultural value to a California Native American Tribe, and that is: Listed or eligible for listing in the California Register of Historical Resources, or in a local register of historical res ources as defined in Public Resources Code section 5020.1(k), or a resource determined by the lead agency, in its discretion and supported by substantial evidence, to be significant pursuant to criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1 In applying the criteria set forth in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code Section 5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the significance of the resource to a California Native American Tribe5020.1(k)? ● No New Impact.

The project site is located on recognized Yuhaaviatam/Maarenga’yam (Serrano) ancestral territory. A search of the National Register of Historic Places and the list of California Historical Resources was conducted, and it was determined that no Native historic resources were listed within the project site and the project’s implementation will not impact any Federal, State, or locally designated historic resources, no impacts will occur. Therefore, no significant impacts related to archaeological or historica l resources is anticipated, and no further investigations are recommended for the proposed project. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Tribal Resources, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

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4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.19 UTILITIES
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. Would the project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or stormwater drainage, electric power, natural gas, or
telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects?

B. Would the project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years?

C. Would the project result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments?

D. Would the project generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? 
E. Would the project negatively impact the provision of solid waste services or impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals?

F. Would the project comply with Federal, State, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste?


THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines , a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on utilities if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or storm water drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects.
● The p roposed project would have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry, and multiple dry years. ● The proposed project would result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the p roposed project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments. ● The proposed project would generate solid waste in excess of State or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals.

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• The proposed project would negatively impact the provision of solid waste services or impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals.

● The p roposed project would comply with Federal, State, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to utility impacts include the following:
● Clean Water Act. The Clean Water Act (CWA) establishes the basic structure for regulating discharges of pollutants into the waters of the United States and regulating quality standards for surface waters. The basis of the CWA was enacted in 1948 and was called the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, but the Act was substantially reorganized and expanded in 1972. Under the CWA, the EPA can implement pollution control programs and set water quality standards.

Additionally, the CWA makes it unlawful for any person to dischar ge any pollutant from a point source into navigable waters unless a permit is obtained pursuant to its provisions. ● California Integrated Waste Management Board. The California Integrated Waste Management Board (CIWMB) requires the City to comply with the California Integrated Waste Management Act of 1989. This act requires each California city and county to divert 50 percent of its solid waste through source reduction, recycling, and composting. This ordinance requires recycling collection and loading areas in all development projects. The requirements now call for a waste diversion rate of 75% by the year 2020.
● California Urban Water Management Planning Act. Under the California Water Code and Urban Water Management Planning Act of 1983, all California urban water suppliers are required to prepare and adopt an Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) every five years, which promotes water conservation and efficiency measures. Urban water suppliers that serve more than 3,000 customers or are supplying more than 3,000 acre‐feet of water annually are subject to this Act. This Act requires that the total project water use be compared to water supply sources over the next 20 years in five‐year increments. Planning must occur for all drought years and must include a water recycling analysis that incorporates a description of the wastewater collection and treatment system, outlining existing and potential recycled water uses. In September 201 4, the Act was amended by SB 1420, which now requires urban water suppliers to provide descriptions of their water demand management measures and similar information. ● City of Indio Code of Ordinances . As part of Ordinance 1662, City of Indio Code of Ordinances sections 54.050 through 54.063 have been established to address water conservation. The ordinance include water conservation standards as well as development standards including Section 54.064.2 Water Efficient Landscaping Standards.

ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. Would the project require or result in the relocation or construction of new or expanded water, wastewater treatment or stormwater drainage, electric power, natural gas, or telecommunications facilities, the construction or relocation of which could cause significant environmental effects? ● No New Impacts.

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There are no existing water or wastewater treatment plants, electric power plants, telecommunications facilities, natural gas facilities, or stormwater drainage infrastructure located on -site or within adjacent parcels. Therefore, the project’s implementation will not require the relocation of any of the aforementioned facilities. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticip ated in the GPU PEIR.

B. Would the project have sufficient water supplies available to serve the project and reasonably foreseeable future development during normal, dry and multiple dry years? ● No New Impact.

The project site is served by the Indio Water Authority. The Indio Water Authority serves the City of Indio and meets the average demand of 18 million gallons of water per day. As of 2008, the Indio Water Authority joined the Coachella Valley Regional Water Management Group (CVRWMG) which encompasses six local water suppliers in an effort to coordinate regional water resource planning efforts. According to the CVRWMG 2020 Regional Urban Water Management Plan (RUWMP), the CVRWMG can supply enough water to meet demands during 5 consecutive dry years.44 The project will provide new water lines below the internal roadways which would connect to existing water mains located in Avenue 50 . Table 3 -7, the proposed project is projected to consume approximately 19,500 gallons of water on a daily basis.

Table 3-7 Water Consumption (gals./day)
Use Unit Factor Generation
Single-family Home 50 units 390 gals/dwelling unit 19,500 gals/day Total 50 units 19,500 gals/day
Source: Blodgett Baylosis Environmental Planning
The existing water supply facilities and infrastructure will accommodate this additional demand which is an insignificant figure compared to the existing demand. In addition, the proposed project will be equipped with water efficient fixtures and drought tolerant landscaping will be planted throughout the project site.

No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

C. Would the project result in a determination by the wastewater treatment provider which serves or may serve the project that it has adequate capacity to serve the project’s projected demand in addition to the provider’s existing commitments? ● No New Impact.

The project site is served by the Coachella Valley Water District which owns and operates five wastewater treatment plants to provide sewerage service to Coachella Valley. Project-generated wastewater is expected to be treated at Water Reclamation Plan 7 (WRP 7), which can treat up to 20 million gallons per day. 45 The project will provide new sewer lines in the internal roadways. These sewer lines will connect to existing sewer mains located in Avenue 50. According to Table 3 -8, the proposed project is expected to generate

44 Water Systems Consulting, Inc. 2020 Coachella Valley Regional Urban Water Management Plan. June 2021 45 Coachella Valley Water District. Sanitary Sewer Management Plan. December 2019

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approximately 13,000 gallons of sewage per day. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

D. Would the project generate solid waste in excess of state or local standards, or in excess of the capacity of local infrastructure, or otherwise impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? ● No New Impact.

Domestic waste collection service in the City of Indio is provided by Burrtec Waste Services. Solid waste would either be handled at a waste-to-energy facility or disposed of at a county landfill. The nearest landfill to the project site is the Land Canyon Landfill which has a daily maximum permitted tonnage of 5,500 tons per day. The proposed project is anticipated to generate approximately 612 pounds per day of solid waste (refer to Table 3 -9 shown below) which is an insignificant figure compared to the existing demand . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

Table 3-9 Solid Waste Generation (lbs./day)
Use Unit Factor Generation
Single Family Residential 50 units 12.23 lbs./unit/day 611.5 lbs./day Total 50 units 611.5 lbs./day
Source: Blodgett Baylosis Environmental Planning
E. Would the project negatively impact the provision of solid waste services or impair the attainment of solid waste reduction goals? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project, like all other development in the City of Indio , would be required to adhere to City ordinances with respect to waste reduction and recycling. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

F. Would the project comply with Federal, State, and local management and reduction statutes and regulations related to solid waste? ● No New Impact.

The proposed project, like all other development in the City, will be required to adhere to City ordinances with respect to waste reduction and recycling. No impacts related to State and local statutes governing solid Table 3-8 Wastewater (Effluent) Generation (gals./day)
Use Unit Factor Generation
Single Family Residential 50 units 260 gallons/unit/day 13,000 gals/day Total 50 units 13,000 gals/day
Source: Blodgett Baylosis Environmental Planning

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waste are anticipated. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Utilities, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.20 WILDFIRE
Environmental Issue Areas Examined
Significant
Project
Impact
Impact Not
Identified
in GPU
PEIR
Substantial
New
Information
No New
Impacts
A. If located in or near State responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan?

B. If located in or near State responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire?

C. If located in or near State responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project require the installation or maintenance of associated
infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines, or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment?

D. If located in or near State responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, w ould the project expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post -fire slope instability, or drainage changes?


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THRESHOLDS OF SIGNIFICANCE, METHODOLOGY, & REGULATORY SETTING According to Appendix G of the CEQA Guidelines, a project may be deemed to have a significant adverse impact on wildfire risk and hazards if it results in any of the following:
● The proposed project would, if located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan.
● The proposed project would, if located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to, pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire.
● The proposed project would, if located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment.
● The proposed project would, if located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post-fire slope instability, or drainage changes.

Relevant plans, programs, and regulations related to wildfire hazard impacts include the following:
● California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) . CAL FIRE publishes maps that predict the threat of fire for each county within the State. Local Responsibility Areas and State or Federal Responsibility Areas are classified as either very high fire hazard severity zones (VHFHSZ) or non ‐VHFHSZ based on factors including fuel availability, topography, fire history, and climate. The 2012 Strategic Fire Plan for California was generated by CAL FIRE to provide guidelines and objectives in order to account for associated fire impacts. ● California Fire Code . The California Fire Code includes regulations for emergency planning, fire service features, fire protection systems, hazardous materials, fire flow requirements, and fire hydrant locations and distribution. Several fire safety requirements include instal lation of sprinklers in all high ‐rise buildings; the establishment of fire resistance standards for fire doors, building materials, and particular types of construction; and the clearance of debris and vegetation within a prescribed distance from occupied structures in wildlife hazard areas. ● Executive Order N‐05‐19. On January 9, 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom announced an Executive Order (EO) that requires CAL FIRE and other State agencies to compile policy and regulatory recommendations concerning wildfire mitigation, emphasizing environmental sustainability and public health. The EO requires the incorporation of socioeconomic analysis when conducting risk management of wildfires and mandates that agencies identify geographic areas with populations that are more vulnerable to the impacts of wildfires.

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ANALYSIS OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS & FINDINGS OF FACT
A. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project substantially impair an adopted emergency response plan or emergency evacuation plan? ● No New Impact.

The project site is not located within or near a state responsibility area or land classified as very high fire severity zones. Improved surface streets serve the project site and the surrounding area. Furthermore, the proposed project would not involve the closure or alteration of any existing evacuation routes that would be important in the event of a wildfire. At no time during construction will adjacent streets be completely closed to traffic. All construction staging must occur on -site. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

B. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones would the project due to slope, prevailing winds, and other factors, exacerbate wildfire risks, and thereby expose project occupants to pollutant concentrations from a wildfire or the uncontrolled spread of a wildfire? ● No New Impact.

The project site is not located within or near a state responsibility area or land classified as very high fire severity zones. The proposed project may be exposed to particulate emissions generated by wildland fires in the mountains. However, the potential impacts would not be exclusive to the project site since criteria pollutant emissions from wildland fires may affect the entir e City as well as the surrounding cities and unincorporated county areas. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipate d in the GPU PEIR .

C. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, would the project require the installation or maintenance of associated infrastructure (such as roads, fuel breaks, emergency water sources, power lines, or other utilities) that may exacerbate fire risk or that may result in temporary or ongoing impacts to the environment? ● No New Impact.

The project site is not located within or near a state responsibility area or land classified as very high fire severity zones, and therefore will not require the installation of specialized infrastructure such as fire roads, fuel breaks, or emergency water sources . No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

D. If located in or near state responsibility areas or lands classified as very high fire hazard severity zones, w ould the project expose people or structures to significant risks, including downslope or downstream flooding or landslides, as a result of runoff, post -fire slope instability, or drainage changes? ● No New Impact.

There is no risk from wildfire within the project site or the surrounding area given the project site’s distance from any area that may be subject to a wildfire event. Therefore, the project will not expose future occupants

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to flooding or landslides facilitated by runoff flowing down barren and charred slopes .No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR .

CONCLUSION
With regards to the issue area of Wildfire, the following findings may be made:

1. No specific impacts to the project or its site were identified in this assessment that was prepared to analyze the impacts of the proposed project.

2. There were no potentially significant off -site and/or cumulative impacts anticipated for the proposed project beyond those that were identified in the GPU PEIR.

3. No substantial new information was identified in the assessment prepared for the proposed project which would potentially result in an impact that is more severe than that anticipated in the GPU PEIR.

4. No mitigation measures are required beyond those identified in the GPU PEIR. The project specific impacts would be less than significant.

3.21 GENERAL PLAN POLICIES APPLICABLE TO THE PROPOSED PROJECT Table 3 -10 provided below and on the following outlines thye proposed project’s conformity with the policies included in the Indio General Plan.

Table 3-10 Project Conformity
Policy Project Conformity
Land Use Element Policies
LU-1.1 Overall city structure. Establish a clearly defined City structure. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

LU-1.2 Infill first. Prioritize initial capital improvements and other public investments and guide private investments into the Downtown, Midtown, Jackson Neighborhood, and Avenue 42 Subarea first to limit expansion of the City’s urban footprint.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-1.3 Contiguous development. When development occurs outside the Downtown, Midtown, and existing central neighborhoods, locate new development adjacent to Indio’s built environment to create a contiguous expansion of the City.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-1.4 Connecting new and old. Connect new growth areas with existing Indio neighborhoods through transportation investments, open space connectivity, wayfinding, and urban design strategies.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-1.5 Subareas. Implement the strategies identified for each distinct subarea in Indio in this General Plan.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-1.6 Bermuda Dunes Airport Influence Area compatibility zones. Projects within the Airport Influence Area (AIA) shall be consistent with the densities, intensities, prohibited uses, and other development conditions defined in the Bermuda Dunes Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan, as adopted by the Riverside County Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC).

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-2.1 Walkable neighborhoods. Require all new neighborhoods to be pedestrian friendly by including features, such as short blocks, wide sidewalks, shaded streets, buildings that define and are oriented to streets or public spaces, traffic -calming features, convenient pedestrian street crossings, and safe streets designed for pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicles.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

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Policy Project Conformity
LU-2.2 Balanced land uses. Maintain a balanced land use pattern to support a broad range of housing choices, retail businesses, employment opportunities, educational and cultural institutions, entertainment spaces, and other supportive uses and within long-established Indio neighborhoods and new growth areas.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.3 Access to amenities. Strive to create development patterns such that the majority of residents are within one-half to one-mile walking distance of a variety of neighborhood-serving uses, such as parks, grocery stores, restaurants, places of worship, cafes, dry cleaners, laundromats, banks, hair care, pharmacies, civic uses, and similar uses.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.4 New gathering spaces. Require new developments to provide public parks, plazas, and squares that establish interesting gathering spaces in planned districts and neighborhoods. Require project developers to establish mechanisms, such as a Community Facilities District, to adequately maintain new parks, recreational facilities, and infrastructure.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.5 Existing gathering spaces. Improve existing gathering spaces throughout the City to provide attractive, comfortable, and inviting public and pedestrian spaces, encouraging walking and public gathering spaces.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.6 Shade. Require the use of large shade trees or structures to provide comfortable environments during hot months.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.7 Parking lot and prominent pathways. Require trees, shade structures, and/or other cooling methods to provide comfortable walkways during hot months.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-2.8 Smoke-free. Encourage smoke-free and Vape -free workplaces, multi-family housing, parks, and other outdoor gathering places to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.1 Streetscape design. Create pedestrian-oriented streetscapes by establishing a unified approach to street tree planting, sidewalk dimensions and maintenance, pedestrian amenities, and high quality building frontages.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.2 Pedestrian focus on high volume streets. Design the streetscape of high volume corridors to balance regional traffic flow with safe and convenient pedestrian movement. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.3 Parking frontages. Require parking design standards that ensure parking areas do not dominate street frontages and are screened from public views whenever possible.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.4 Tree planting. Encourage the planting of trees that appropriately shade the sidewalk and offstreet parking areas to improve the pedestrian experience throughout the City.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.5 Lighting. Require all new street lights in commercial areas to be pedestrian-oriented and scaled, attractively designed, compatible in design with other street furniture, and to provide adequate visibility and security in accordance with best practices for night sky protection.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU 3.6 Public plazas. Encourage new development to incorporate public plazas, seating, drinking fountains, and gathering places, especially in prominent locations and areas of pedestrian activity.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.7 Use Crime Prevention through Environmental Design strategies (CPTED) in new and existing development to improve public safety.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU 3.8 Underground utilities. Require private development to underground all under 92 kV electric poles and other overhead utilities. Require City to codify this policy.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-4.1 Quality design. Use simple, urban building forms made with permanent materials with high quality detailing that stands the test of time.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.2 Scale and articulation. Use building organization and construction to derive scale and articulation rather than surface ornamentation.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.3 Building materials. Convey façade articulation through the strength, depth, and permanence of building materials. Thinner cladding materials, such as stucco, stone and masonry veneers, and wood or simulated wood, may be used when finished to appear as dur able and authentic of the materials they simulate.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.4 Building entrances. Use visual and physical design cues within a building’s design and entries to emphasize the building entrance and connections to public spaces.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.5 Iconic design. Allow iconic and memorable building designs, particularly on larger non- residential properties.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.6 Climate-appropriate design. Encourage the use of building techniques and materials that relate to Indio’s warm and dry desert climate. Promote solar control and use of shade in building design and associated pedestrian amenities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-4.7 Protect visual characteristics. Protect Indio’s unique visual characteristics and views. The project is consistent with this policy.

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Policy Project Conformity
LU-5.1 Complete street projects. Design, plan, maintain, and operate streets using complete street principals for both new infrastructure and for retrofit/maintenance projects. This includes reviewing the entire right of way and prioritizing modes as noted on Figure 4-1.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.2 Street connectivity. Encourage short block spacing for new development to enhance connectivity to neighborhoods. In key areas of the City, work with existing land owners to improve connectivity for bicycles and pedestrians.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.3 Complete street context. Ensure that complete street applications integrate the neighborhood and community identity into the street design.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.4 Subarea connectivity. Ensure a high-level of connectivity in all Neighborhoods, Centers and Districts throughout the City. The connectivity should be measured as block perimeter or length and in external connectivity on the perimeter of a new development project.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.5 Connections between development projects. Require the continuation of the street network or pedestrian connections between adjacent development projects and discourage the use of cul- de-sacs except where necessary or due to existing development, topographic conditions or limited access to transportation systems.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.6 Improved connections. Improve pedestrian and bicycle mobility by identifying opportunistic connections within the City’s neighborhoods to increase access to local parks, schools, neighborhood centers, and neighborhood gathering spaces.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-5.7 Pedestrian-supportive building design. Require new and substantially rehabbed commercial and mixed-use projects to follow best practices for pedestrian-supportive design.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-5.8 Connective corridors. Ensure high-quality, people-oriented street design and urban design occurs where highlighted by the Connective Corridors in Figure 3-8.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-6.1 Maintenance. Support the on-going maintenance and improvement of existing residential properties; in particular, encourage property owners to maintain and improve their front yards and building facades.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.2 Orientation. Orient all new residential construction towards streets, public spaces, or shared private spaces, placing parking to back or side of the lot.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-6.3 Sustainable residences. Encourage sustainable building practices during new construction or when buildings are substantially renovated.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.4 Home businesses. Support home businesses that meet City planning and permitting requirements and create jobs and opportunities for entrepreneurship.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.5 Blight and nuisances. Work with neighborhood associations, commissions, and other community groups to proactively identify and address nuisances and eliminate blight.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.6 Open space maintenance. Strengthen public-private partnerships with local neighborhood organizations and homeowners associations to build and maintain neighborhood parks and recreational facilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.7 Compatible scale. Maintain high-quality existing residential neighborhoods by ensuring new development projects and infill construction are of a compatible scale and provide adequate transitions to adjacent residential properties.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.8 Second units. Permit second units on single-family residential lots. The project is consistent with this policy.

LU-6.9 Building additions. Allow additions, such as a new bedroom or bathroom that are complementary to the existing character of the neighborhood. Renovations and expansions should use complementary building materials and forms while allowing for flexibility for unique design conditions.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-6.10 High-quality landscaping and fencing. Encourage property owners to maintain and improve their yards and the front facades of homes and to encourage the use of drought-tolerant landscaping. Prohibit front yard fences made from concrete blocks or chain links.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-6.11 Circulation connectivity. Seek opportunities to enhance and maintain existing residential neighborhoods by improving pedestrian and bicycle facilities, installing traffic calming measures, and “punch through” cul-de-sacs. The project is consistent with this policy.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.1 Complete neighborhoods. Through the development entitlement process, ensure that all new Neighborhoods (areas with a “Neighborhood” General Plan Designation) are complete and well structured such that the physical layout and land use mix promote walking to services, biking and transit use, are family friendly, and address the needs of multiple ages and physical abilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-7.2 Balanced neighborhoods. Within the allowed densities and housing types, promote and allow for a range of housing and price levels within each neighborhood in order to accommodate diverse ages and incomes. For development projects larger than five acres, require that a diversity of housing types be provided and that these housing types be mixed rather than segregated by unit type.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
LU-7.3 Housing affordability. Ensure affordable housing is distributed throughout the City to avoid concentrations of poverty and to be accessible to jobs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-7.4 Block size. Require new neighborhoods to be designed with blocks length ranging from 400 or less to 800 feet consistent with the General Plan place type. Exceptions can be made if mid- block pedestrian and bicycle connections are provided.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-7.5 Provision of sidewalks. Except within designated Rural Estate areas, require sidewalks of at least five feet in width on at least one side of private and both sides of public streets in neighborhoods and prohibit obstructions, such as utility boxes, telephone poles, street signs, etc. that would impede sidewalk use.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.6 Tree-lined streets. Require trees on both sides of at least 60 percent of new and existing streets within the project and on the project’s side of bordering streets, between the vehicle travel way and walkway at intervals averaging no more than 50-100 feet (excluding driveways and utility vaults). This standard shall apply whenever new streets are constructed or when existing streets and sidewalks are significantly rehabilitated with existing neighborhoods. Ensuring the appropriate revenue stream to provide long-term maintenance.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.7 Shaded sidewalks. Require shade over at least 50 percent of the length of sidewalks on streets within a project. Trees must provide shade within five-years of landscape installation and should be as water efficient as possible.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.8 Gated communities. Discourage the construction of new gated communities. When gated communities are allowed, require frequent pedestrian and bicycle connections between the gated community and surrounding areas at distances no more than 600 feet apart.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-7.9 Soundwalls. Allow the use of soundwalls to buffer new neighborhoods from existing sources of noise pollution, such as railroads and limited -access roadways. Prohibit the use of soundwalls to buffer residential areas from arterial, boulevard, connector, Downtown, and local streets. Instead design approaches such as building setbacks, landscaping, and other techniques shall be used. In the case where soundwalls might be acceptable, require regular pedestrian access points at intervals less than 600 feet to improve access from the neighborhoods.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.10 Subdivision gateways. Strive for neighborhoods to blend seamlessly with one another and discourage distinguishing one residential project from another.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.11 Connections to key destinations. Require direct pedestrian and bicycle connections between residential areas and nearby commercial and public and institutional areas as well as other residential areas.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.12 Access to parks and open spaces. Require the design of new neighborhoods and, where feasible, retrofit existing neighborhoods, so that the majority of dwelling units are within a half-mile walking distance of a usable open space such as a tot-lot, neighborhood park, community park, or plaza/ green.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-7.13 Density bonuses. Support projects that seek for density bonuses for affordable housing, special needs housing, childcare, and senior housing.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-7.14 Unbundled parking. Require unbundled parking, reducing or eliminating requirements for on-site parking in the Downtown and Midtown subareas.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-8.1 Resort uses. Allow hospitality, recreation, single and multi-family residential with golf course activity or similar recreational orientation, small-scale retail and services, and similar uses which are compatible with and oriented towards serving the needs of resort-oriented living.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-8.2 Resort neighborhoods. Permit resort uses in any General Plan placetype with a neighborhood designation. Resorts should reflect the overall character, allowed uses, and intensity of the placetype.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-8.3 Resort connectivity and streetscape. Require streetscape design and street connectivity be consistent with the character and standards identified by the General Plan placetype in which the resort parcel or project is located. Pedestrian access to perimeter streets or adjoining neighborhoods or districts should be provided approximately every 600 feet to encourage walking, biking, or equestrian activity.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-8.4 Gated resorts. Allow resort uses to be gated, at the discretion of the City. When gated communities are allowed, require frequent pedestrian and bicycle connections between the gated community and surrounding areas at distances no more than 600 feet apart.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.1 Regional destination. Establish Downtown Indio as regional destination with a mix of uses that draw visitors from the Coachella Valley. Encourage a broad mix of uses that creates an inviting, active, and dynamic Downtown.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.2 Neighborhood center design. Design new neighborhood centers to be walkable and pedestrian friendly with buildings that face streets and public sidewalks. Primary building entrances should face the street.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.3 Access to transit. Encourage the development of Neighborhood Centers that are located on existing or planned transit stops, particularly along Highway 111, Avenue 42, and Avenue 50, in order to facilitate and take advantage of transit service, reduce vehicle trips, and allow residents without private vehicles to access services.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
LU-9.4 Pop-up uses. Support transformation of vacant or under-utilized properties and buildings for popup uses including restaurants, art spaces, and cultural facilities, among other uses.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.5 Parking districts. Create special parking districts in Downtown and Midtown to encourage shared parking and that can be used to fund and facilitate creation of park once facilities or other nonauto transportation improvements.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.6 Unbundled parking. Require unbundled parking, reducing or eliminating requirements for on-site parking in the Downtown and Midtown subareas.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-9.7 Incentives for aggregation. Allow or create incentives, such as density bonuses, parking reductions, setback reductions, or other regulatory modifications, for projects that aggregate parcels to create a larger contiguous parcel.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.1 Design of employment districts. Design Workplace and Employment Districts to be urban in character with compact buildings sited at or near front lot lines, provide a high percentage of lot coverage, and building facades and entrances directly facing the street. Buildings should have a high degree of transparency and visibility. Parking lots and large setbacks shall not dominate the frontage of the Workplace and Employment Districts.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.2 Emerging industries. Support a diverse mix of light industrial, information, maker, and technology uses in order to provide jobs and tax revenues for the community by allowing emerging economic uses and industries within the Workplace and Employment designation.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.3 Flex spaces. Expand the number of flex facilities on land designated as Workplace and Employment to accommodate technology, light manufacturing, and service tenants and diversify the City’s economic base.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.4 Non-polluting industries. Promote development of non-polluting industries that are not major sources of air and water pollution or other negative externalities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.5 Industrial compatibility. Where industrial uses are near existing and planned residential development, require that industrial projects be designed to limit the impact of truck traffic, air and noise pollution on sensitive receptors.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.6 Employee services. Enhance the working environment within the Workplace and Employment District by promoting small retail areas and restaurants to serve employees.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.7 Walkable blocks. Add new street connections to create walkable blocks to improve pedestrian safety and access consistent with the streetscape and connectivity standards defined for the placetype.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-10.8 Transit accessible. Work with SunLine, area employers, and other partners to provide frequent, quality transit service to Workplace and Employment Districts.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.1 Performing arts. Support the establishment of allowed land uses and facilities that embrace and celebrate the cultural diversity and rich history of Indio and that promote and encourage arts and entertainment.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.2 Culture and heritage. Enhance community culture and heritage through the establishment of public art, themed street furniture, signage, banners, landscaping, special paving, and lighting.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.3 Development projects. Require development projects provide public artwork or contribute to an Art in Public Places fund.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-11.4 Public art. Continue to require art in public places to be located in an area that either highlights the design of the building or center or is incorporated within an on-site pedestrian plaza.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.5 Art interaction. Support public art installations that encourage interaction with the public such as works that can be touched, sat on, walked on, etc.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.6 Decorative gateways. Celebrate the gateways to Indio, Downtown, Midtown, and other prominent destinations by enhancing them with the integration of public art by local artists.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.7 Artist live/work studios. Encourage live/work studio space in new Downtown developments, where appropriate.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.8 Public infrastructure. Encourage integration of art into new and rehabilitated public infrastructure, such as streets, sidewalks, intersections, interchanges, etc.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-11.9 Community arts programs. Support transformation of vacant or under-utilized properties and public buildings for cultural and arts-based programs to support area revitalization.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-12.1 Annexation. Before allowing annexation in the Northern or Eastern Sphere of Influence subarea, create a land use plan and conduct a related fiscal analysis that demonstrates that annexation will be revenue neutral or revenue enhancing. Annexation shall not create a revenue drain on the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

LU-12.2 Adequate infrastructure. Ensure adequate infrastructure and utility service levels before approving new development.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-12.3 Fair share. Require new development to pay their fair share for required improvements to public services and infrastructure.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-12.4 Actual costs. Ensure that development impact fees are updated often and reflect the actual costs of improvements.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

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Policy Project Conformity
LU-12.5 Phasing of public facilities. Require new parks, open spaces, and public facilities be constructed concurrent with, or prior to, the development of each residential neighborhood. All required parks, open spaces, and public facilities shall be constructed before a majority of the dwelling units are constructed.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

LU-12.6 Facilities districts. Require project developers to establish mechanisms, such as a Community Facilities District, to adequately maintain new parks and recreational facilities and other shared resources.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Mobility Element
ME-1.1 Vision. Utilize the layered networks approach to provide enhanced mobility for prioritized modes. This will guide investment along streets in the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-1.2 Users. Design and build streets that accommodate users of all ages and all abilities. This includes utilizing the layered networks approach to identify key modes that shall be prioritized and enhanced along streets.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.3 Projects and phases. Design, plan, maintain, and operate streets using complete streets principles for all types of transportation projects including design, planning, construction, maintenance, and operations of new and existing streets and facilities. This includes repurposing unneeded roadway pavement to implement bicycle and pedestrian improvements (e.g. road diets) when Average Daily Traffic (ADT) volumes are less than 15,000 vehicles.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.4 Street connectivity. Encourage short block spacing for new development consistent with the Land Use and Community Design Element to enhance connectivity to neighborhoods. In key areas of the City (e.g. the pedestrian-priority areas, Downtown, Midtown, and the Festival District), work with existing land owners to improve connectivity for bicycles and pedestrians.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-1.5 Responsibility. All departments are responsible for implementing complete streets and incorporating these complete streets policies into their action plans and other planning documents.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.6 Design criteria. Create engineering design and guidelines to specifically address the complete streets goals. This may result in updating the City’s Engineering Standards and other City The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.7 Context. Ensure that complete streets applications integrate the neighborhood and community identity into the street design. This can include special provisions for pedestrians and bicycles.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.8 Performance standards. Monitor and evaluate multi-modal performance standards, such as Multi Modal Levels of Service (MMLOS), as a means to measure the service levels of prioritized modes based on the layered networks approach. When and if these methodologies are applied in the City, LOS D or better for prioritized modes and LOS E or better for non-prioritized travel modes will be maintained.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-1.9 Funding. Pursue funding for multi-modal infrastructure projects that promote complete streets, such as impact fees and local, regional, State, and federal grants.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-1.10 Residential streets. Design residential streets to minimize traffic volumes and/or speed, as appropriate, without compromising connectivity for emergency first responders, bicycles, and pedestrians. This could be accomplished through management and implementation of complete streets strategies, short block lengths, narrow streets, and/or traffic calming measures.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.11 Traffic calming tools. Use traffic-calming tools to assist in implementing complete streets principles. Traffic calming tools include roundabouts, curb extensions, high-visibility crosswalks, and separated bicycle infrastructure.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-1.12 Compliance. Require new developments in Indio to comply with the City’s Complete Streets Implementation Plan.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-2.1 CV Link. Support and complement implementation of the CV Link project by providing connections from CV Link to activity centers of the City and assisting in the thoughtful implementation of the facility. This includes CV Link connectivity, including CV Link spur routes and the North Spur Bike Path.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-2.2 Facility enhancement. Enhance the bicycle and pedestrian facilities as identified in Figure 4-1 as part of development, private grants, signing of shared routes, maintenance activities, etc. The City will also complete and continually update a Complete Streets Master Plan which will also assist in enhancing bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-2.3 Safe Routes to School. Encourage the use of bicycles and walking as the preferred transportation mode for trips to and from elementary, middle, and high schools. Continue implementation of the City’s Safe Routes to School Plan.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-2.4 Intersection and signal enhancements. Enhance pedestrian and bicycle crossing efficiency and safety, including timing of signals, crosswalks, and intersection design features.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-3.1 Riverside commuter transit. Support a potential expansion of commuter rail transit from Riverside to the Coachella Valley, including support for a transit station adjacent to the City’s Downtown area. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-3.2 Local service. Work with SunLine Transit to expand transit routes in the City and enhance bus stops in the City to provide shelters, secure bicycle parking, benches, and safe waiting areas at each stop.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
ME-3.3 Safe linkages. Encourage convenient and safe pedestrian linkages to and from transit service to provide better first -mile/last-mile connectivity. This includes connectivity to/from existing and new development and along streets providing access to the transit stop.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-3.4 Park-ride lots. Work to expand park-and-ride facilities by partnering with businesses that generate minimal parking demand during typical weekdays, such as assembly uses.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-4.1 Street sections. Minimize street widths to minimize capital costs, maintenance costs, decrease vehicle speeds, and improve safety for all users of the street while ensuring consistency with the street guidance provided in Table 4-2. This will require updates to the City’s Engineering Standards and/or the City’s Complete Streets Master Plan.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-4.2 Highway 111. Monitor traffic volumes along Highway 111, and work to transition areas to a more pedestrian-friendly environment in the future.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-4.3 Regional coordination. Coordinate with Caltrans, CVAG, SCAG, and adjacent agencies to implement complete streets and maintain consistency with regional plans such as the Regional Transportation Plan and Sustainable Communities Strategy and Congestion Mana gement Program.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

ME-5.1 Rail. Support the continued use of the rail corridor through the City as a key goods movement corridor.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-5.2 Airport compatibility. Support the continued use of the Bermuda Dunes Airport through ensuring consistency with the airport master plan.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-6.1 Adaptation. Monitor the effects of increased use of TNCs and AVs and adjust design standards and codes as needed to adapt to changing travel behaviors.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-6.2 Parking. New parking facilities will be planned to ensure a relevant use in the future if parking requirements are dramatically decreased due to new technologies.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-6.3 Curb space management. Manage curb spaces in activity areas to balance the demands of AVs and TNCs, bicycles, pedestrians, delivery loading/unloading, street furniture, etc. to ensure a balanced provision to all users.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-7.1 Transportation Demand Management. Utilize Transportation Demand Management (TDM) measures throughout the City, where appropriate, to discourage the single -occupant vehicle, particularly during the peak hours.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-7.2 Transportation system management. Utilize Transportation System Management (TSM) measures throughout the City to ensure that the City's circulation system is as efficient and cost effective as possible and reflect the desire of the City to implement improved pedestrian and bicycle facilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-7.3 Festival management. Work with event producers to control mobility during festivals. This includes appropriate circulation and connectivity for all modes of travel.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-8.1 Off-street parking. Require new developments to provide sufficient off-street parking (or payment of in -lieu fees) to reduce on -street parking congestion and increase both auto and pedestrian safety. New development shall provide electric vehicle charging stations and preferential parking for carpools, vanpools, and alternative fuel vehicles.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-8.2 Off-street parking alternatives. Allow developers to meet their minimum parking requirements via shared parking techniques that can leverage unused parking with nearby parcels, in-lieu fees, or on-street parking.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-8.3 Managed parking supply. Manage parking supply through implementation of time limits, pay parking, or permits, while ensuring the preservation of economic development goals.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ME-8.4 Bicycle parking. Safe and secure bicycle parking facilities shall be provided with all new development.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Economic Development Element
ED-1.1 Regional and local partnerships. Engage in public-private partnerships with local and regional organizations, such as the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber of Commerce (GCVCC) La Quinta, Palm Desert, and Coachella Valley Hispanic Chambers of Commerce, the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP), and the East Valley Coalition (EVC).

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.2 East Valley Coalition (EVC). Support the EVC partnership between the cities of La Quinta and Coachella and Riverside County to jointly market and promote economic development in the Eastern Coachella Valley.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.3 Permitting process. Improve the permitting process where businesses can identify their economic development requirements early and work with a dedicated staff member who will guide them along the way in order to ensure that development is realized in a timely manner.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.4 Project review. Provide a timely and thorough review of proposed economic development projects.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.5 Financing priorities. Set public infrastructure financing priorities by key economic focus areas as identified in the City’s Economic Development Action Plan as they are updated and revised over the life of the General Plan.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
ED-1.6 Business outreach. Expand the City of Indio’s economic development role to include a regular outreach effort to better understand and respond to the ongoing economic needs of existing and new businesses in Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.7 Branding program. Maintain a unique brand comprised of visual themes and taglines that distinguish Indio from other jurisdictions in the Coachella Valley and accentuate its opportunities and attractions.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.8 Marketing program. Support marketing programs that emphasize Indio’s unique economic opportunities including, cultural, arts, and environmental advantages and attributes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.9 Placemaking. Support a variety of revitalization and improvement programs focused on placemaking and beautification, such as facade improvements, small plazas, public art, and community events.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-1.10 Flexible spaces. Promote flexible work spaces that can be shared among commercial and/or educational tenants to support entrepreneurship, affordability, sharing of resources and appeal to start-ups and/or spin-offs from regional institutions of higher learning and the modern workforce.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-2.1 Business development opportunities. Identify business development opportunities that will increase the number of professional and technical jobs as well as increase skill and wage levels.

Emphasis should be placed on development opportunities that diversify the local economy.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-2.2 Incubators. Encourage development of incubator facilities in Indio through the provision of low cost space and business resources that support the startup and expansion of firms with creative new ideas and products; work cooperatively with the California and Coachella Valley Innovation Hub (iHub) Programs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-2.3 Infrastructure improvements. Identify public services and public infrastructure improvements necessary to expand existing and encourage new industrial development. Conduct regular business surveys, business outreach forums, and public -private partnerships with the GCVCC and the EVC to identify those improvements.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-2.4 Industrial growth. Support the retention and growth of the industrial and manufacturing sector and actively attract new industrial businesses.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-2.5 Job fairs. Work with the GCVCC, CVEP, and EVC to host an annual local job fair to facilitate the awareness of employment opportunities for both the local labor force and local businesses. ED-

2.6 Attract livable wages. Continue to purse and attract companies and industries who offer livable wages and medical benefits for employees in Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-3.1 Economic development and labor pool alignment. Align economic development efforts with the labor pool to increase the number of jobs filled by Indio residents.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-3.2 Training. Collaborate with the College of the Desert and other appropriate entities to identify and strengthen educational and training courses in new and emerging technologies that are compatible with the City’s economic development policies and increase the economic competitiveness of the local labor force.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-3.3 Trades. Attract trade colleges and training programs that can prepare the local workforce for occupations in new and emerging industries.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-3.4 Schools. Collaborate with the local K-12 school districts to provide students in their STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) plus the arts and humanities courses (STREAM) with summer and part-time internship opportunities with local businesses and government agencies.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-3.5 Internet access. Support the availability of community-wide WI-FI and high-speed internet connectivity for both businesses and households.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-4.1 Economic development performance monitoring. Apply accepted fiscal analysis methods and establish a system of fiscal performance measures to evaluate the ongoing revenue and cost performance of economic development in Indio; regularly monitor measures such as sales tax, property tax, and other major revenue sources in order to track fiscal trends.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.1 Implement economic vision. Expand the role of the Citizens Finance Advisory Commission to include assisting with the implementation of the City’s economic vision, monitoring progress, and recommending effective revisions to ongoing programs and actions.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.2 Infrastructure financing districts. Explore the feasibility of establishing one or more targeted infrastructure financing districts in Indio to facilitate public capital improvements. This would entail evaluating existing options, such as the newly adopted legislation for an enhanced Infrastructure Financing District, or other options that may become available.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.3 Infrastructure capital needs linking. Coordinate the public infrastructure capital needs with Indio’s annual Capital Improvement Program (CIP) to create effective linkages between the General Plan’s economic development objectives and the timely provision of new or refurbished public infrastructure.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.4 Grant funding. Partner with local and regional agencies and organizations, such as CVAG, CVEP and EVC, to identify and obtain federal, State, and regional grants for public infrastructure that reinforce the General Plan goals for economic development, jobs-housing balance, improved accessibility, and community sustainability.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.5 Infrastructure financing sources. Continue to identify, update, and apply traditional financing techniques, such as outside grants and loans, development impact fees, special This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
assessments, and special taxes to maximize Indio’s access to infrastructure financing sources.

ED-5.6 New financing techniques. Continue to evaluate and implement emerging financing techniques as they become available.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-5.7 Public-private broadband partnership. Actively seek a public -private partnership to provide ultra, high-speed fiber optic communications to businesses in Indio. When feasible and applicable, new construction shall install future cables to support citywide broadband internet accessibility.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-6.1 New retailers. Where appropriate, support the entry of new retail uses into the City, including uses that will attract spending from visitors and residents of neighboring communities in the Coachella valley.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-6.2 Retail development. Support retail development that meets the community needs of Indio’s residents in appropriate locations in order to prevent the leakage of local expenditures to neighboring communities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-6.3 Transient Occupancy Taxes (TOT). Encourage the development of uses that generate transient occupancy taxes. Require operators of short term accommodations to comply with regulations that generate transient occupancy taxes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-6.4 Non-retail taxes. When possible, identify and attract industrial and warehousing/distribution businesses that have substantial business-to-business or other non-retail taxable sales potential.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-7.1 Hospitality inventory. To assess hospitality needs, prepare a current hospitality facility inventory that includes the types of hotels/motels, number of rooms, price structure, location, amenities and other associated resort-style facilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-7.2 Hospitality opportunities. Continue to work closely with the Greater Palm Springs Visitors and Convention Bureau to identify both hospitality businesses and locational opportunities for the Eastern Coachella Valley.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-7.3 Music events. Continue to support local music festival event promoters and work to extend opportunities to increase development opportunities that would complement the festivals.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-7.4 Cultural and art events. Continue to publicize cultural and arts events and attractions in Indio to residents, potential visitors and business prospects.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-7.5 Cultural tourism. Recognize the value of music, dance, theater and visual arts to Indio’s quality of life and economy, supporting cultural tourism as part of an economic development strategy for the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-8.1 Transportation connectivity. Coordinate transportation investments to create better connectivity between residences and job locations.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-8.2 Employment infill. Allow employment generating land uses at infill sites and in development locations.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

ED-8.3 Missing-middle housing. Encourage the growth of diverse housing types including missing middle housing opportunities in Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Health and Equity Element
HE-1.1 Health equity. Encourage programs and practices that aim to reduce health inequities.

Partner with public and private health partners to work towards ensuring a healthy and sustainable lifestyle for all Indio residents and workers.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-1.2 Health in all policies approach. Integrate a Health in All Policies approach to governance that aligns with County initiatives, policies, and strategies.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-1.3 Partnerships for health. Support partnerships with local health service providers, the County Public Health Department, schools, and other community-based organizations to promote health, wellness, and preventative care.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-1.4 City actions and programs. Implement the HEAL Campaign by promoting and addressing the health and wellness of the public through the City’s actions, policies, programs and publications.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-1.5 Educational materials about health. Provide information about existing health care facilities through City-sponsored events, publications and activities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-1.6 Flexible spaces. Promote the flexible use of community centers, libraries, and schools to provide important health services to Indio residents. Consider novel health care alternatives, like pop-up vaccinations or pop-up health screening.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-2.1 Neighborhood design. Design neighborhoods to promote pedestrian and bicycle activity as alternatives to driving. This policy is implemented through the Land Use and Community Design Element.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-2.2 Complete streets. Prioritize transportation system improvements that encourage activity by all users, particularly in the areas with the highest need. This policy is implemented through the Mobility Element.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-2.3 Universal park access. Increase access to existing and proposed parks and open spaces.

Apply universal design principles to ensure that people of any culture, age, size, weight, race, gender, and ability can experience an environment that promotes their health, safety, and welfare.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

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Policy Project Conformity
This policy is implemented through the Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element.

HE-2.4 Sidewalk network. Design neighborhoods to facilitate social connectivity and walkability.

This policy is implemented through the Mobility and the Land Use and Community Design Elements.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-2.5 Community engagement. During future neighborhood planning processes, encourage continuous participation by those who will be affected by the plan, including residents, property owners, and businesses, as well as the general public and interested groups. If possible, pursue public-private partnerships to implement projects and ensure long-term sustainability and benefits to the community.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-2.6 Coordination with regional agencies. Integrate a Health in All Policies approach to governance that aligns with County initiatives, policies, and strategies.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-2.7 Health-promoting uses. Prioritize health-promoting uses in new development including neighborhood markets, grocery stores, medical centers, pharmacies, parks, gyms, and community gardens.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.1 Regional air quality planning efforts. Participate in air quality planning efforts with local, regional, and State agencies that improve local air quality to protect human health and minimize the disproportionate impacts on sensitive population groups.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-3.2 Contaminated sites. Continue to work with the appropriate local, State, and federal agencies to promote the clean-up of contaminated sites to protect human health.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.3 Construction pollution. Reduce particulate emissions from paved and unpaved roads, construction activities, and agricultural operations.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-3.4 Sensitive-receptor uses. Discourage development of sensitive land uses – defined as schools, hospitals, residences, and elder and childcare facilities – near air pollution sources that pose health risks – including freeways and polluting industrial sites.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-3.5 Truck routes. Designate truck routes to avoid sensitive land uses, where feasible. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

HE-3.6 Smoke-free. Encourage smoke-free and Vape -free workplaces, multi-family housing, parks, and other outdoor gathering places to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.7 Public education. Provide educational information about air quality issues and their health effects, including best practices for reducing and/or eliminating sources of indoor air pollution.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.8 Sensitive receptors and agricultural operations. When new sensitive receptors are proposed adjacent to existing active agricultural operations, ensure that an appropriate buffer is provided to minimize adverse impacts and that future residents will be provided with a notice specifying the potential nuisances, such as dirt, noise, odors, and slow moving agricultural machinery that would be associated with the agricultural operations.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.9 Agricultural outreach. Work with the agricultural community to develop and distribute an informational brochure regarding best practices to reduce or eliminate surface and groundwater contamination, reduce particulate emissions from agricultural operations, minimize soil erosion, and prevent the buildup of salts in soils. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-3.10 Lower-emission fuel technologies. Support collaboration between State, regional, and local agencies to continue transitioning goods movement and transit vehicles to lower-emission fuel technologies in order to reduce vehicle air pollution.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.1 Healthy food. Ensure convenient access to affordable, fresh produce in all neighborhoods, including grocery stores, farmers’ markets, and community gardens, particularly in underserved areas of Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.2 Fast food access. Discourage unhealthy fast food outlets from locating near schools. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

HE-4.3 Healthy food awareness. Promote public awareness and education about the importance of locally-produced food and food security.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.4 Local food production. Encourage local food production and distribution from Riverside County to reduce the distance food travels and pollution associated with transporting food.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.5 Mobile food markets. Maintain regular, weekly certified farmers’ market and other mobile health food markets in Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.6 Youth food programs. Work with the Desert Sands Unified School District and other Indio schools to create or implement educational programs for kids about healthy eating, such as edible school yards and healthy cooking classes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.7 Liquor stores. Be cognizant of potential concentrations (e.g., multiple stores on the same block or intersection) of liquor stores and corner stores that sell liquor.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.8 Food insecurity. Educate residents about eligibility requirements for government nutrition programs, such as WIC and CalFresh.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-4.9 Food businesses. Encourage and promote innovative food microenterprises in Indio and create economic development opportunities for entrepreneurs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
HE-5.1 Crime prevention programs. Promote Business and Neighborhood Watch programs to help maintain a clean and safe environment.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-5.2 Community volunteer programs. Support the creation of community volunteer programs, including police cadets, Citizens Helping Indio Police (CHIP), and the Police Chaplain unit.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-5.3 Community and recreational programs. Encourage the development and operation of community and recreational facilities, programs, internships and block-party neighborhood events as preemptive strategies to reduce youth-related crime and to serve all phases of life (e.g., children, families, senior citizens).

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-5.4 Use Crime Prevention through Environmental Design strategies in new and existing development to improve public safety, including lighting, building orientation, and landscaping measures.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

HE-5.5 At-risk youth programs. Continue to support programs for at-risk youth and parents of at- risk youth, such as parent training programs to prevent and intervene in destructive adolescent behavior, youth community outreach events, and the youth offender court program where juvenile offenders are tried in front of a jury comprised of their peers.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-5.6 Graffiti removal. Continue the robust graffiti prevention and removal efforts through the City of Indio’s Graffiti Abatement Team which is managed by the Indio Police Department. The Team removes graffiti from public property (including parks, street sign s, sidewalks, etc.) or property adjacent to public rights-of-way.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.1 Enrichment programs. Promote free or low-cost child and family enrichment programs and afterschool supplemental education programs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.2 Workforce training. Develop public -private partnerships with automakers, telecommunications, green industry, health care, education, and other sectors to support educational and workforce training opportunities, particularly to assist vulnerable populations in competing for career opportunities in growth industries. This policy is also implemented through the goals and policies in the Economic Development Element.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.3 Early childhood education. Support a high quality, universal system of early childhood education, especially in low income communities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.4 Youth training and employment. Support participation in youth training and employment programs as a strategy to improve educational attainment and generate professional aspirations.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.5 County partnership. Partner with the network of Riverside County Libraries to promote educational programs that teach children, teens, and adults with low literacy to improve reading skills, improve English conversational skills, and homework support.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

HE-6.6 Adult education. Support the creation of adult education and training programs, including English language classes, vocational training, and financial literacy programs that empower residents to save, budget, build credit, and explore investment opportunities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Parks, Recreation, and Open Space Element
PR-1.1 Accessibility to open space. Ensure that areas designated as open space for public use remain accessible to users of all ages and abilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-1.2 Balance conservation efforts with accessible open space. Balance public access to natural open space resources with habitat and wildlife conservation efforts by locating trail easements within the less environmentally-sensitive areas and directing users to remain on designated trails through signage or fencing. Implement the Coachella Valley Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-1.3 CV Link. Support development and maintenance of the CV Link along the Whitewater River as a fundamental and integral part of Indio’s active recreational open space system, along with supportive, ancillary uses (e.g. healthy food stands, bicycle and altern ative-fuel vehicle rental stations, and similar uses).

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-1.4 CV Link spurs. Implement development of “spurs” that connect CV link to neighborhoods along Avenue 48 and Madison Street, and in North Indio. Considerations should be given to add CV Link Spurs on Hwy 111 and Downtown Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-1.5 Trail connections. Encourage projects to provide connections to existing trails, and include mini parks, dog parks, community gardens, or other recreational features within the design.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-1.6 Regional open space. Support State and regional efforts to create regional open space networks.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.1 Park ratio. Work to achieve a ratio of 3 acres of public parks per 1,000 residents and place a park or recreation amenity within one-half mile of all Indio residents. Maintain adequate land dedication requirements and/or development fees for new development to meet the park ratio.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

PR-2.2 Parks classification system. Utilize the parks classification system identified in the General Plan to help guide public park planning and improvements in the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.3 Infill parks in disadvantaged neighborhoods. Focus City efforts to create a variety of new parks types, including mini, neighborhood, and community gardens within Indio’s existing neighborhoods, particularly the most disadvantaged neighborhoods as identified in the Health and Equity Element. Ensure parks are safe, easy to access, and well maintained.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
PR-2.4 Temporary/pop-up parks. Encourage the establishment of temporary or pop-up urban parks, public plazas, community gardens, fitness opportunities, or similar on vacant land, parking lots, or undeveloped land until permanent development occurs. Use as a short-term placemaking strategy in Downtown, Midtown, and other areas of the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.5 Design for heat. Design cool parks and playgrounds to facilitate activity in hot weather conditions by including shade structures, shade trees, water fountains, splash pads, lighting for night play, and other design features that mitigate heat.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.6 Design for safety. Utilize CPTED design techniques, such as providing clear lines of sight, adequate lighting, and wayfinding signs, to ensure parks are safe. Face residential and commercial buildings towards new parks.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

PR-2.8 New development. Ensure that new residential developments provide adequate on-site recreational and open space amenities consistent with the values and standards of the community and the needs of new development. Require projects to establish mechanisms, such as a Community Facilities District, to adequately maintain new parks and recreational facilities.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

PR-2.9 Existing gated communities. Work with developers of residential neighborhoods to allow the general public access to private open space and recreational spaces.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

PR-2.10 Maintain public parks. Provide the appropriate resources and staffing to improve and maintain existing park and recreational facilities in Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.11 Art in public spaces. Ensure new park facilities have adequate spaces and equipment for active and passive recreation, as well as incorporate public art into the park design.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.12 Recreation programs. Promote opportunities for physical activities for all ages and abilities by improving and expanding community recreation programs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.13 Partner with local schools. Seek opportunities to partner with local schools and public agencies to allow for the joint use of school properties as parks and recreational centers that are open to the public during non-school hours, and to develop community gardens on school property.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.14 Park facility locations. Ensure that public facilities and services are equitably distributed throughout Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-2.15 Smoke-free. Encourage smoke-free and Vape -free workplaces, multi-family housing, parks, and other outdoor gathering places to reduce exposure to second-hand smoke.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-3.1: Trails network. Support a comprehensive and cohesive system of recreational trails with linkages to the CV Link, key centers, parks, recreation, and open space areas.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-3.2: Trail design. Design and manage trails in natural open space areas in a manner consistent with the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan. Coordinate efforts with local hiking and equestrian trail groups.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-3.3 Dedicate space for trails. Require new development projects to dedicate easements for trails, trailheads, and other needed improvements, where appropriate. Dedications may include paseos, urban trails, greenways, and/or Class I bicycle facilities that connect to centers, schools, parks, and open space areas. Seek opportunities to enhance them with informational kiosks, public art, outdoor fitness equipment, and rest areas.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-3.4 Utility easements. Work with utility providers other key organizations and agencies to utilize utility easements for recreational purposes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-3.5 Maintain public trails. Ensure adequate funding and resources are available to maintain the City’s recreational trails.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-4.1: Equitable access to recreation and special events. Continue to ensure that residents have equal access and opportunity to participate in the City’s recreational activities and programs regardless of age, economic status, disability, culture, or other factors.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-4.2: Special events. Provide opportunities for special activities, such as open mic nights, movie nights, community dances, plays, concerts, and similar events, within the City’s parks and other appropriate public spaces for all ages and abilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-4.3: Temporary open-air markets. Encourage the establishment of temporary markets and structures, such as farmers’ markets, craft fairs, food trucks, and similar temporary or mobile vending opportunities. Use as a short-term placemaking strategy in Downtown, Midtown, and other areas of the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-4.4: Affordable events. Seek opportunities to partner with the Indio Performing Arts Center, College of the Desert, County of Riverside Indio Library, Coachella Valley History Museum, and other cultural institutions to provide affordable events and entertainment.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-4.5: Youth programs. Continue to support the Indio Teen Center, Boys and Girls Club, Desert Recreation District, after school programs, and other facilities and activities that cater to Indio’s youth.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR4-6: Adult and senior programs. Continue to support the Senior Center/Mature Adults Center, Life Long Learning Programs, and other facilities and activities that cater to Indio’s older adults.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR4-7: Promote physical activity. Promote physical activity by encouraging community sports and tournament events to take place within the City’s parks.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
PR-5.1: Urban agriculture. Support small-scale, urban agriculture and farming in residential areas, where possible, while ensuring such activities do not result in negative impacts on neighboring properties.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.2: Community gardens. Establish an Indio community garden program that provides opportunities for residents and school children to grow fruits, vegetables, and herbs for personal consumption. Ensure that public community gardens and other urban agricultural resources are accessible to all members of the community. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.3: Underutilized space. Allow underutilized park areas, utility right -of-ways, and other undeveloped land to be used as productive space for growing food.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.4: Farmers’ markets. Actively seek a farmers’ market for Indio. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

PR-5.5: Farm stands. Allow farm stands diverse locations throughout Indio, including on commercial or mixed-use zoning districts, the Riverside County Fairgrounds, vacant lots, and parking lots.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.6: Edible landscaping. Use edible gardens and landscaping, where appropriate, in residential, commercial, and public and institutional projects. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.7: Promote healthy food education. Support educational opportunities for youth and adults to participate in healthy food activities, including community gardens, cooking classes, organic gardening, and health and nutrition classes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

PR-5.8: School gardens. Work with the Desert Sands Unified School District and other local schools to develop community gardens on school sites to raise awareness and promote an urban food system.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Conservation Element
CE-1.1 Reduction targets. Establish greenhouse gas emission reduction targets in line with those of the State that call for reducing greenhouse gas emissions as follows: 1990 levels by 2020 40 percent below 1990 levels by 2030 60 percent below 1990 levels by 2040.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-1.2 Reduction measures. Implement greenhouse gas reduction measures consistent with the Climate Action Plan to achieve greenhouse gas reduction targets.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-1.3 Monitor emissions. Monitor and report greenhouse gas emissions so that reductions can be tracked in a transparent, consistent, and accurate manner.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-1.4 Reduction programs. Use the emissions inventory and monitoring tools to identify, prioritize, and update programs that effectively contribute to greenhouse gas reductions.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-1.5 Municipal emissions. Prioritize municipal policies and programs that reduce the City’s carbon footprint, such as purchasing alternative fuel vehicles, pursuing solar installation, implementing green purchasing, and retrofitting existing buildings.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-1.7 Sustainable communities strategy. Collaborate with regional and State partners to implement the Sustainable Communities Strategy to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, balance jobs and housing, and develop transportation systems that support all modes of circulation.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-2.1 Rate schedule. Work with the Indio Water Authority to continue to maintain a water conservation rate schedule intended to reduce water use.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-2.2 Regional coordination. Continue to work with CVWD and IWA to implement water conservation projects, including conducting water audits, disseminating information about water conservation measures and rebate programs, and participating in regional water planning efforts.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-2.3 New development requirements. Require new development projects to implement water conservation measures that are equivalent to or exceed CalGreen Tier One or other applicable standards in effect at the time of development.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-2.4 Drought-tolerant landscaping. Exceed State landscaping water efficiency standards by requiring the use of drought tolerant landscaping, minimizing the use of turf, and encouraging the retrofitting of existing irrigation systems.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-2.5 Water-efficient landscaping and appliances. Encourage the retrofitting of existing water intensive appliances and irrigation systems. Continue to disseminate information about the CVWD and IWA rebate programs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-2.6 Greywater systems. Encourage new residential development to be constructed to allow for easy implementation of greywater systems that redirect water from washbasins, showers, and tubs for use in toilet flushing, irrigation, and other non-potable uses.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-2.7 Reclaimed and recycled water use. Work with the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), Valley Sanitation District (VSD), and the Indio Water Authority (IWA) to use reclaimed and recycled water.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.1 Regional energy leadership. Continue involvement with CVAG, Imperial Irrigation District, and the Desert Energy Cities Partnership and be a regional leader in energy conservation, efficiency, and renewables implementation. Seek opportunities to join a Community Choice Energy program.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.2 Residential energy efficiency education. Maintain a designated City staff member to oversee an Energy Awareness Program that provides lectures, seminars, and training on green This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

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Policy Project Conformity
building. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

CE-3.3 Low-income weatherization assistance program. Partner with Imperial Irrigation District and SoCal Gas to promote existing programs that provide financial assistance to low -income households for weatherization improvements and heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) tune-ups.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.5 Commercial benchmarking. Promote commercial benchmarking using the Environmental Protection Agency’s ENERGY STAR Portfolio Manager or equivalent benchmarking tool.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.6 Zero net energy use. Implement building design requirements to achieve zero net energy use for new residential development by 2020 and zero net energy use for new commercial development by 2030 consistent with the California Public Utilities Commission’s California Long Term Energy Efficiency Strategic Plan.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-3.7 Solar financing. Promote installation of solar panels by continuing to support Indio’s Ygrene and HERO Programs and by distributing information on actual savings achieved by PV systems.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.8 Building energy use. Encourage the use of building placement, design, and construction techniques to limit energy consumption, reduce the heat island effect, increase renewable energy use, and maintain solar access.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-3.9 Municipal buildings. Continue to take a leadership role in ensuring that municipal buildings are designed to be as sustainable and energy efficient as feasible.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.10 Municipal vehicle fleet upgrades. When replacing or adding new municipal vehicles, require the analysis of alternative -fuel vehicles along with gasoline -fueled vehicles. When appropriate and economically-feasible, preference the purchase of alternative-fuel vehicles over gasoline-fueled vehicles.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.11 Grant funding. Seek grant funding to implement a “green building” demonstration project to promote awareness of available “green” technologies that work within Indio’s desert setting.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.12 Alternative energy. Explore future renewable energy sources utilizing diverse energy resources with Imperial Irrigations District (IID) and other agencies. Facilitate the development of small scale alternative energy infrastructure.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.13 Innovative systems. Identify opportunities to implement innovative infrastructure systems that utilize natural ecological processes.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-3.14 Sustainability commission. Work with the Sustainability Commission to identify and develop energy efficiency and sustainability programs.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-4.1 Public trees. Require the planting of new trees in conjunction with City-initiated projects, where feasible, and manage and care for all publicly-owned trees. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project. CE-4.2 Heritage trees. Support the conservation of heritage trees, or trees that are recognized as unique due to their age, rarity, and large size as well as their aesthetic, botanical, ecological, and historic value.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-4.3 Shade trees. Promote the planting of shade trees with substantial canopies, and require, where feasible, site design that uses trees to shade buildings, parking facilities, sidewalks, and other facilities to minimize heat island effects and decrease demand for air conditioning.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-4.4 Fruit tree program. Explore the feasibility of implementing a fruit tree program that permits fruit trees to be planted within parks or on another City property. Work with non-profit organizations or community volunteers to identify funding sources (such as grants), plant and maintain the trees, and harvest the fruit for to give to the homeless or low-income families, sell at farm stands or farmers’ markets, and/or offer a subscription service to residents that allows the fruit to be delivered to their home or office for a set price.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-4.5 New development requirements. Ensure that new development incorporates and maintains street trees and parking lot plantings as required, and work with residents and businesses to retain healthy trees as part of Indio’s streetscape.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-5.1 Mining operations buffers. Maintain buffers between active mining operations and incompatible land uses, such as housing and commercial development.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-5.2 Reclaimed mining sites. In coordination with the State, periodically declassify and remove mining sites from the State list once a site has been reclaimed.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-5.3 Best practices. Coordinate with Riverside County to assure that mining operations continue to implement best available management practices to minimize or avoid nuisances, hazards, or adverse environmental impacts including, but not limited to dust, noise, and erosion.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-5.4 Raw mineral resources. Support efforts to conserve and recycle raw mineral resources. This policy is not specifically applicable to the project.

CE-5.5 Annexing active mining operations. Consider the feasibility, benefits, and costs of annexing active mining operations and mineral resource areas with potential for active mining. Conduct a related fiscal analysis that demonstrates that annexation will be revenue neutral or revenue enhancing. Annexation shall not create a revenue drain on the City.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-6.1 Grading. Minimize grading of land to project specific efforts so as to limit the impact of soil erosion from wind, water, and landslides in areas of unstable slopes, and reduce negative aesthetic The project is consistent with
this policy.

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Policy Project Conformity
impacts in areas of significant landforms.

CE-6.2 Agricultural soil erosion. Continue to work with agricultural property owners and operators to minimize the impacts of tilling and grading on soil erosion.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-6.3 Agricultural best practices. Promote best agricultural practices regarding to address surface and groundwater contamination, particulate emissions from agricultural operations, minimal soil erosion, and the buildup of salts in soils.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.1 CVMSHCP and other regulations. Implement the CVMSPHCP. Ensure development is consistent with federal, State, and regional regulations for habitat and species protection.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-7.2 Desert fan palm. Work with Riverside County, public and private landowners to maintain and enhance the desert fan palm oases located in the southern slopes of the Indio Hills.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.3 Riparian resources. Preserve and enhance wetland functions and values to the extent feasible and maintain ecological integrity in order to support riparian resources.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.4 Volunteerism. Encourage community volunteerism and stewardship to help protect and rehabilitate natural resources.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.5 Public and private partnerships. Encourage public and private partnerships to acquire and protect habitat areas containing sensitive resources for preservation as permanent open space.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.6 Native plants. Incorporate native desert plant materials into new development projects to the extent possible and feasible.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.7 Sensitive biological area development. Apply appropriate land use and development regulations to limit development of sensitive biological areas, including wetlands, wildlife movement corridors, and sensitive habitats.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.8 Preserve night sky. Ensure that outdoor lighting is shielded and directed away from natural open space areas.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-7.9 Hazards and open space. Maintain open space areas that are designed to protect people and property from risks associated with hazards, such as fault lines, flood zones, high voltage power line areas, and electrical substations.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.10 Agency coordination. Communicate with neighboring jurisdictions (including the cities of La Quinta, Indian Wells, Palm Desert, Coachella, and the County of Riverside), regional agencies (including the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG), and the Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), and Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC)), Caltrans, and the SunLine Transit Agency to seek opportunities to improve and expand upon the regional open space/biological preserve system.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-7.11 Aquifer recharge areas. Continue to identify and protect aquifer recharge areas and natural drainages throughout Indio.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-8.1 Site plan review. Ensure adequate site plan review and mitigation measures are implemented for the development of sites with the potential to contain historic, archaeological, and paleontological resources.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-8.2 Avoidance of impacts to historic resources. For projects that could affect historic resources, ensure adequate study to identify eligible resources and project-level review to avoid or lessen negative impacts through conformance with the Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-8.3 Incentivize retention of historic landmarks. Explore opportunities to provide economic and regulatory incentives for the retention and sensitive upgrades and changes to historic landmarks and contributors to designated historic districts.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-8.4 Monitoring. Require monitoring on sites where grading has the potential to impact subsurface cultural and paleontological resources during excavation and construction activities.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

CE-8.5 Public Education. Support opportunities to promote public awareness of the history and prehistory of the area as the oldest Valley City and the cultural center of the Coachella Valley.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

CE-8.6 Coordination with local tribes. Periodically meet with representatives from local tribes to:
•Obtain input prior to making decisions, taking actions, or implementing programs/projects that may impact cultural resources; •Discuss methods to preserve and protect highly sensitive cultural resources; and •Ensure that there is agreement regarding the protocol to be followed when cultural resources are discovered.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.

Infrastructure and Public Facilities Element
IE-1.1 Water supply. Work with CVWD and IWA to ensure an adequate supply of domestic water facilities to sustain existing and projected water needs.

The project is consistent with
this policy.

IE-1.2 Water facilities. Ensure adequate funding is available to accommodate existing and future water facilities.

This policy is not specifically
applicable to the project.