CC09 — Rancho Mirage City Council, February 3, 2022 (part 2 of 4)

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Housing Element Community Workshop RSVP
Name Email Contact Information RSVP
Jennifer Loretta [email protected]
Development Coordinator
72680 Dinah Shore Dr., Suite 6
Palm Desert, CA 92211
760.969.6917 Ext 202
Yes
Joy Silver Reg Director [email protected] SoCal CHOC Yes William L [email protected] Yes
Mary Ann Ybarra
Director of Multifamily [email protected]
Coachella Valley Housing
Coalition
Office: (760) 347-3157 x 502
Cell phone: (760) 393-6968
Yes
Tony Mize [email protected] National Core Yes
William E. (Bill) Cutler [email protected] Statewide Services Inc. 424-541-6086 Yes
TAYLOR LIBOLT VARNER [email protected]
Lift to Rise
o 760-636-0420
c 909-336-8790
73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite
100 Palm Desert, CA 92260
Yes
Alma Perez [email protected] Coachella Valley Housing
Coalition Yes 9-110

First Name Last Name Email
Bitian Chen [email protected]
Nicole Criste [email protected]
Marcus Aleman [email protected]
Majna Dukic [email protected]
Jennifer Loretta [email protected]
Jason Jaurigue [email protected]
Tony Mize [email protected]
William Cutler [email protected]
Alma Figueroa [email protected]
Anna Tellez [email protected]
Jessica Leal [email protected]
Joy Silver [email protected]
Gretchen Gutierrez [email protected]
Alice Salinas [email protected]
David [email protected]
Ian Gabriel [email protected]
Ted Weill [email protected]
James Brownyard [email protected]
Alma Perez [email protected]
Deanna Mendoza [email protected]
Mary Ann Ybarra [email protected]
January 13, 2021 Housing Element Update Attendee List
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Housing Element Update
Community Workshop
January 13, 20219-112

Background
•The City’s vision and guiding principles are contained in its General Plan.
•The Housing Element is one part of the General Plan
that the City must update every 8 years.
•The purpose of the Housing Element is to assure that the City facilitates the development of housing for all its residents.9-113

About the City
•Population 18,075 residents
•6,315 with a disability
•Age Median –66.3 years
•7.5% aged 0-19
•22.7% aged 20-54
•69.6% aged 55+
•Income Median –$71,227
•294 households below the poverty line9-114

About the City
•Households 9,406 total
•3,155 lower income households (80% or less of County median income)
•Overpaying 2,530 households
•1,575 owner-occupied
•955 renter-occupied
•Overcrowded 141 Units
•53 owner-occupied
•88 renter-occupied9-115

Housing Needs

INCOME CATEGORY NUMBER OF UNITS
Extremely low income 214
Very low income 215
Low income 317
Moderate income 327
Above moderate income 668
TOTAL 1,741
Note that the extremely low and very low income categories are 50% each of the 429 units assigned for the very low category Source:SCAG
Regional Housing Needs Allocation
2022 to 2029
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Housing Sites
•Distributed throughout the City
•Section 19 Specific Plan
•Monterey Marketplace
•Highway 111
•Potential for 2,764 Very Low,
Low and Moderate income
units9-117

Next Steps
•Complete document for review by the State’s
Department of Housing & Community
Development
•Planning Commission and City Council hearings
late summer 20219-118

Tuesday, September 7, 2021 at 16:49:50 Pacific Daylight Time

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As a participant in our community workshop for the City of Rancho Mirage’s Housing Element Update, we wanted to let you know the draft Housing Element document is available on the city’s website for public review, from September 7 – 21, 2021.

We invite you to provide comments on the Element through this portal: https://cityofrmdev.wpengine.com/our-city/city-departments/planning/housing-element- 9-119

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update/

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Housing Element

City of Rancho Mirage
Housing Element Update
Appendix C
Highway 111 Inventory Sites
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Highway 111 Specific Plan
Land Inventory Sites

Site E, Planning Area 1
APN Acreage
674490032 1.216066103
674490031 1.320636207
674490027 1.093948035
674490028 1.148224339
674490034 3.254306679
674490039 1.198238667
674490037 1.332841544
674490033 1.185431353
674490038 1.92941182
674490026 1.035096601
674490036 0.93804492

Site F, Planning Area 2
APN Acreage
689070001 0.212166165
689030002 0.171514986
689070002 0.15068799
689030006 23.8106543
689030004 2.57862011
689030003 0.608322859
689030005 8.330890927
689030017 3.251653705

Site G, Planning Area 4 MU
APN Acreage
689210004 0.553553622
689210005 0.546684698
689210027 0.890079802
689210028 1.179555571
689210029 1.997725701

Site G, Planning Area 4 RH SP
APN Acreage
689202016 0.162406284
689202006 0.280908284
689202029 0.354541071
689202008 0.199419488
689202015 0.198847158
689202012 0.217312252
689201008 0.294874844
689202011 0.217046881
689201004 0.340574689
689202002 0.200365114
689202034 0.363462412
689202013 0.201846559
689202030 0.27495129
689202027 0.179517961
689202017 0.283142216
689202022 0.201606781
689202036 0.579308494
689202014 0.202152554
689202018 0.28893136
689202028 0.288370656
689202031 0.298093652
689202023 0.191843285
689202010 0.201610704
689202032 0.303395364
689202024 0.39390886
689202033 0.303805502
689202001 0.207740795
689202005 0.32328559
689202007 0.163064299
689202025 0.20198471
689202003 0.199488194
689202009 0.202715335
689202004 0.197701954
689202026 0.200472316 9-123

Highway 111 Specific Plan
Land Inventory Sites

Site H Planning Area 7
APN Acreage
684130027 575081.6606
684130015 41118.40204
684130017 20346.59781
684190004 215596.6103

Site I Planning Area 9
APN Acreage
684255006 0.135806733
684255003 0.154080154
684255009 0.1417576
684255005 0.130158009
684255007 0.131911561
684255008 0.290137824
684254003 0.264699217
684254006 0.133856848
684255004 0.132509015
684254007 0.066372362
684254005 0.266759893
684254008 0.070201402
684254004 0.259153576
684255011 0.167969241
684255017 1.009053777
684254013 1.389382004
684255002 0.122299122
684255010 0.144788999
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Safety Element
8 Safety
Introduction
The Safety Element addresses natural and manmade
environmental hazards that might occur in Rancho Mirage and surrounding areas. It provides information, goals, policies, and programs to protect the general health, safety, and welfare of the community from seismic, geological, flood, hydrology, and hazardous and toxic materials events. The assessment of and planning for these hazards and the constraints that manage them is the primary purpose of the Safety Element. The policies and programs of this element should also be coordinated with the Public Services and Facilities Element, which includes a discussion of emergency services and facilities and the City’s Emergency Preparedness Plan.

Geotechnical Hazards
Purpose

Rancho Mirage and the SOI are located in an area subject to substantial seismic and geological hazards such as strong ground shaking, seismic-induced settlement, seismic-induced landslides, collapsible and expansive soils, ground subsidence, and wind- blown sand hazards. These seismic and geological hazards can affect the structural integrity of buildings and utilities and, in turn, cause severe property damage and potential loss of life.

The purpose of the Geotechnical Hazards section, in the following pages, is to provide information, goals, policies, and programs to protect the general health, safety, and welfare of the residents of Rancho Mirage relative to seismic and other geotechnical hazards, It also serves to educate the community about seismic and related geologic hazards.

Background
Major Fault Hazards in the Rancho Mirage Area

Rancho Mirage is located in an area with numerous active faults.

At least two active faults lie close to Rancho Mirage’s northern edge and SOI, but are north of I-10 and outside of the City’s jurisdictional boundaries. These are the Banning fault and the Garnet Hill fault. Both fault zones are capable of causing damage to Rancho Mirage. Other faults in the region, such as the San Andreas, San Jacinto, and San Gorgonio Pass faults, also have the potential to produce strong seismic shaking in Rancho Mirage.

Ground shaking during an earthquake is the most significant seismic hazard that will impact Rancho Mirage. Exhibit 21 shows the faults sur- rounding the city.

The most important piece of legislation related to seismic hazards is the Alquist-Priolo Earthquake Fault Zoning Act, which prohibits locating structures for human occupancy across active fault lines until geotechnical investigations determine that a prospective site is safe for habitation. The Act also requires cities to disclose to the general public areas that are subject to seismic hazards, by means of maps and other appropriate materials.

An effective seismic hazard reduction program should include the identification and mapping of geologic and seismic hazards, the enforcement of building and fire codes, and the expedient retro- fitting and rehabilitation of weak structures. Programs should also be developed to help residents provide for themselves and their families in the aftermath of an earthquake.

Other Seismically Induced Hazards

In addition to direct effects such as ground rupture and ground acceleration, other seismically induced and geological hazards can injure people and damage structures. These hazards include liquefaction, dynamic settlement, landslides, and inundation.

Liquefaction
Liquefaction may occur when loose, unconsolidated, saturated, sandy soils are subjected to ground vibrations during a seismic event. This occurs in areas where the groundwater table is within 50 feet of the ground surface and when seismic events occur that generate a Modified Mercalli Intensity value of seven or greater.

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2 Significant ground shaking can suddenly increase water pressure in the pores between soil particles and cause soils to lose cohesion and to “liquefy.” Effects include a loss of bearing strength, ground oscillations, and lateral spreading and slumping. This hazard is considered low in the Rancho Mirage area, principally because the approximate depth to groundwater is greater than 50 feet.

Liquefaction may occur in or adjacent to the Whitewater River if the near-surface alluvial sediments become saturated as a result of precipitation or the recent input of surface water from the adjacent mountains. However, water percolates rapidly through alluvial materials, so the likelihood of an earthquake occurring while these sediments are saturated in the upper 50 feet is very low. Areas of liquefaction susceptibility are shown in Exhibit 22.

Dynamic Settlement
Under some circumstances, strong ground shaking can cause densification or compaction of soils resulting in local or regional settlement of the ground surface. This can result in local differential settlement and damage to foundations and structures, as well as damage to water and sewer lines. This potential is affected by the intensity and duration of ground shaking and the relative density of the subsurface soils.

Windblown sands and other recently deposited sediments are typically loose and, therefore, potentially subject to seismically induced settlement. In the planning area, development on the valley floor or on wind or stream deposited sediment should include site-specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address this potential seismic hazard. Proper excavation, compaction, and foundation design can address some of the seismic settlement potential. Seismically induced settlement susceptibility is shown in Exhibit 23.

Landslides
Exhibit 24 shows how seismically induced landslides and rock falls can be expected to occur in the southern portion of Rancho Mirage in and adjacent to the slopes of the Santa Rosa Mountains.

With several faults in the area, there is a high potential for seismically induced rock falls and landslides to occur in Rancho Mirage. Fractures and landslides are likely to occur in the Indio Hills area, in the ocotillo conglomerate. Intense ground shaking can be expected at the top of Edom Hill as a result of the local topographical features, thereby intensifying the seismic shaking.

Scattered rock falls could occur in the Santa Rosa Mountains, in areas where the bedrock is intensely fractured or jointed. Sections of Highway 111 adjacent to the Santa Rosa Mountains could be blocked by fallen rock debris immediately following an
earthquake, which would hinder rescue and evacuation
operations. Rock falls could also impact developments adjacent to mountain slopes, especially those at the mouth of Magnesia Springs and Bradley Canyons. Throughout Rancho Mirage,
manufactured slopes of significant height could also be susceptible to failure if not engineered to resist seismically induced failure.

Inundation
Seismic events can cause failure of water tanks, reservoirs, retention basins, recharge basins, and other water storage structures, especially in areas susceptible to ground failure. There are several storage tanks in Rancho Mirage that could be subject to damage in an earthquake. Damage to these tanks could hinder efforts to suppress fires and could greatly limit supply and availability of potable water after a major earthquake. Only limited opportunities for seismically induced inundation downgrade of stormwater retention basins currently exist in Rancho Mirage. As there are few stormwater retention basins in Rancho Mirage and its vicinity, this hazard is substantially reduced, if not eliminated. The design engineering of future major detention/retention facilities will need to focus on the seismic hazards of the area when planning for and constructing these facilities.

Geologic Hazards
The physiographic and geologic histories of the Rancho Mirage area are important in that to a great extent they control the geologic hazards, as well as the natural resources, in Rancho Mirage. These hazards include collapsible soils, ground subsidence, wind erosion, and wind-blown sand. For example, wind-blown sand erosion poses a significant hazard across the Coachella Valley due to funneling of fierce winds by the steep mountain barriers. Locations at the base of the mountains are more sheltered from this hazard, but areas in and adjacent to the mountains are more likely to be impacted by rock falls and unstable slopes. Regional tectonic subsidence along the valley floor, concurrent with uplift of the adjacent mountains, is responsible to a great extent for the rapid deposition of poorly consolidated alluvium that is susceptible to consolidation and/or collapse. On the other hand, the deep alluvium-filled basin, which is bounded by relatively impermeable rock and faults, provides a natural under- ground reservoir (aquifer) for groundwater, one of Rancho Mirage’s primary sources of domestic water. The extraction of water from these aquifers may cause the ground to settle or sink. 9-126

3 Safety Element
Collapsible Soils
The composition of soils in the area is an important factor of the geological conditions in Rancho Mirage. The potential for soils to collapse or expand can cause damage to structures. Soil collapse typically occurs in recently (Holocene) de- posited sediments laid down by wind or water. When saturated, collapsible soils undergo a rearrangement of their grains and a loss of cohesion or cementation, resulting in a substantial and rapid settlement even under relatively low loads. The alluvial and aeolian sediments in the planning area are prone to collapse, and this propensity should be evaluated on a site-specific basis as part of geotechnical studies for development. Mitigation can be accomplished through a variety of design and construction methods.

Ground Subsidence
Ground subsidence is the gradual settling or sinking of the ground surface with little or no horizontal movement. Several regions of subsidence have been documented in Riverside County – all of them in deep, alluvium-filled valleys. In most cases, subsidence was at- tributed to declining groundwater levels. Regional subsidence from groundwater withdrawal is a potential hazard that the City can proactively mitigate by supporting the proper management of the groundwater supplies, creating water conservation programs, encouraging water recycling, and educating the public. With the expected increases in population, overdraft of the aquifers underlying the Coachella Valley will be one of the most serious challenges in maintaining the region’s environmental quality.

Wind Erosion and Wind-Blown Sand
Most of Rancho Mirage is highly susceptible to wind erosion. The geomorphology of the Coachella Valley, its extreme aridity, and the marine air masses funneled from the west through the San Gorgonio Pass conspire to create strong and persistent winds in the valley. These strong winds have been blowing and
redistributing sand deposits in the area for thousands of years.

Lands disturbed by flooding, grading, or agricultural activities, therefore, are subject to significant erosive forces that suspend fine dust and transport sand over great distances.

In addition to damaging vehicles, structures, and other improvements, blowing sand collects on streets, in driveways, and in other areas where it must be removed at considerable expense.

The presence of dust particles in the air is also a source of major health problems, as atmospheric dust causes respiratory discomfort and may carry pathogens that cause eye infections and skin disorders. Dust storms reduce highway and air traffic visibility.

Exhibit 25 shows the wind erosion hazard zones occurring in Rancho Mirage and the SOI.

Mitigation measures currently used in Rancho Mirage focus on the application of the Coachella Valley PM10 State Implementation Plan. Some other physical measures used in the area include hedges, walls, and other barriers to wind. Water is typically sprayed at construction sites to reduce dust in the air by weighing down the soil.

Development projects and individual structures can be designed to protect occupants and property from the damage of blowing sand.

Vegetation covers, such as a desert hydroseed mix, can reduce wind erosion of the topsoil, but these efforts are only partially effective in mitigating the wind erosion hazard. Furthermore, grass requires intense watering to thrive, and in an area where water is such a vital commodity, the need for water preservation needs to be weighed against the need to control airborne dust.

Exhibit 23 Seismically Induced Settlement Susceptibility

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5 Safety Element
Open Space for Public Health and
Safety
An important function of open space is its use as a buffer to separate people and buildings from hazards that could cause injury, damage, or death. Open space for public health and safety includes areas requiring special management or regulation because of hazardous or special conditions such as earth- quake fault zones, unstable soil or slope areas, flood plains, watersheds, areas presenting high fire risks, areas required for the protection of water quality and water reservoirs, and areas required for the protection and enhancement of air quality. Al though these lands remain open to mitigate potential hazardous situations, they have potential for other uses. Land along fault lines can be retained in its natural condition as a wildlife corridor, and flood control facilities may be usable for natural open space, wildlife habitat, and recreation.

OPEN SPACE FOR PUBLIC HEALTH AND SAFETY GOALS, POLICIES,

AND PROGRAMS
The development review process performed by the City must assure that proposals are thoroughly evaluated with regard to seismic and geological safety, that all necessary special studies are conducted and reviewed, and that comprehensive mitigation measures are developed and implemented. Developing a
groundwater management and water conservation program and encouraging the use of recycled water will be important in mitigating ground subsidence. The City should also work with state, regional, and county agencies to establish and maintain an up-to- date database on seismic geological conditions in the region, legislation affecting the City’s regulatory responsibilities, and changing technical assessments that refine or re-characterize the seismic hazards affecting the region.

GOAL SAFE 1
A community that plans for and is protected from the effects of seismic and geological hazards.

POLICY SAFE 1.1
The City shall consult and cooperate with surrounding communities and applicable state and federal agencies to improve and update information on regional seismic and geological conditions.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.1A
Coordinate with the California Division of Mines and Geology and the United States Geological Survey to establish and maintain maps illustrating the location of seismic and geological hazard zones occurring in Rancho Mirage's boundaries and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.1B
Coordinate with the National Earthquake Hazard Reduction Program of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to
identify earthquake risks and available mitigation techniques.

POLICY SAFE 1.2
The City shall establish ordinances and guidelines to reduce the hazards from wind-blown sand and dust.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.2A
Coordinate with the SCQAMD and other local agencies to
develop and maintain appropriate large particulate (PM10) mitigation practices.

POLICY SAFE 1.3
The City shall require the removal or rehabilitation of hazardous or substandard structures that may collapse in the event of an earthquake.

POLICY SAFE 1.4
The City shall cooperate and coordinate with public and quasi- public agencies to assure seismically strengthened or relocated facilities and other appropriate measures to safeguard water, electricity, natural gas, and other transmission and distribution systems.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.4A
Encourage and cooperate with Caltrans to stabilize susceptible slopes and strengthen bridges, elevated roadways and other structures along state highways, which may be subject to failure during major seismic events, thereby isolating portions of the community from emergency aid and assistance.

POLICY SAFE 1.5
The City shall play an active role in the development or distribution of earthquake preparedness information and materials to residents and local businesses.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.5A
Confer and cooperate with local utility companies, the CVWD, the Palm Springs Unified School District, police and fire departments, and others to coordinate public education regarding appropriate action before, during, and after earthquakes and other disasters.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.5B
Keep the City’s public awareness programs on natural disaster management and emergency preparedness up-to-date on current hazards and issues.

POLICY SAFE 1.6
New septic tank leach fields, seepage pits, drainage facilities and heavily irrigated areas shall be located away from foundations and other structural supports to minimize the creation of a localized collapse of soils and associated hazards.

POLICY SAFE 1.7
Developers of projects in areas identified as being subject to a rockfall or landslide hazard shall prepare detailed geotechnical analysis, including site response to seismic events, and require mitigation measures that reduce associated hazards to insignificant levels.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.7A
Require design of engineered slopes to resist earthquake-induced failure.

PROGRAM SAFE 1.7B
Require design of lifelines (e.g., roadways, utilities, rail- roads) that cross a fault to resist the occurrence of a fault rupture.

POLICY SAFE 1.8
The City shall encourage the incorporation of wind barriers, architectural design or features, and drought resistant ground coverage in new development site designs to mitigate the impacts from erosion and wind-blown sand.

POLICY SAFE 1.9
Where appropriate, hazard zones (earthquake fault lines, floodways and floodplains, steep or unstable slopes, etc.) shall be designated as open space, and incorporated into the General Plan land use map.

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6 Flooding and Hydrology Hazards
Purpose
Rancho Mirage and surrounding areas, like most of southern California, are subject to unpredictable seasonal rainfall. Most years, the scant winter rains are barely sufficient to turn the hills green for a few weeks, but every few years the region is subjected to periods of intense and sustained precipitation that result in flooding. The potential for flooding is a safety concern that the City continues to address. It is the intention of the City to plan and implement the phased development of flood control facilities, both project-specific and citywide. Provisions for open space and multiple uses, wildlife, and pedestrian and equestrian corridors in major drainages are also planned.

Background
Desert Conditions and Flood Hazards
Rancho Mirage and the Coachella Valley enjoy a subtropical desert climate. Mean annual rainfall is very low on the desert floor, ranging from four to six inches per year. On average, nearby Mount San Jacinto experiences of 25.3 inches of rainfall annually.

High intensity thunderstorms and tropical storms can occur suddenly, however, creating flood hazards. Although the ground may be generally dry at the beginning of a storm, sufficient amounts and intensities of rainfall can saturate the desert surface and substantially reduce percolation, pushing the water farther downstream. Development also in- creases runoff by creating large areas of impervious surface. Furthermore, increased runoff upstream can be a significant contributor to downstream damage.

Areas of potential flooding are generally associated with the Whitewater River and its tributaries, mountain canyons, and their alluvial fans, as well as runoff associated with the Indio Hills drainage (including Edom Hill). Exhibit 26 identifies areas subject to flooding both along the Whitewater River drain- age and along the fan area between I-10 and the Indio Hills (identified as the I- 10 Wash). The 100-year flood zone for the Whitewater River is generally confined to the channel of the river and its tributaries, although at the bottom of Magnesia

Spring Canyon, the 100-year flood limits extend to several of the residential streets in the area. The 500-year flood limits cover a large residential and commercial section of Rancho Mirage and extend across Highway 111.

Although the City’s SOI does not extend north of I-10, there is a potential for substantial flooding in the wash north of I-10. Flooding in this area is generally shallow, between one and three feet deep, but the floodwaters move at relatively high velocities with the potential to do considerable damage. According to maps issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) maps, the velocity of the floodwaters in this area varies between five and seven feet per second.

FEMA also reports that most of the streams in the Rancho Mirage area have the potential to carry large amounts of debris. This increases the volume of peak discharges, and when flows reach the valley, the debris is deposited, com- pounding the flooding problem. Debris has the potential to fill or plug structures designed to collect and convey run- off, forcing floodwaters into the adjacent areas. Rapidly moving flows heavily laden with debris are also extremely dangerous.

Increased urbanization of the northern portions of the Coachella Valley can and will result in increased amounts of runoff during large storms. Local agencies have realized that unless adequate flood control measures are implemented, this increased runoff can damage improvements and endanger life.

The CVWD is the primary agency responsible for the management of regional drainage in the vicinity of Rancho Mirage, including rivers, major streams and their tributaries, and areas of significant sheet flooding. CVWD is empowered with broad management functions, including flood control planning and construction of drainage improvements for regional flood control facilities, as well as watershed and watercourse protection related to those facilities.

A small portion of Rancho Mirage lies within the Riverside County Flood Control District boundary, which encompasses Sections 4 and 9 along the border between Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City.

Land Use Planning as a Flood Control Strategy
Proper land use planning is one of the most effective and direct methods of controlling flooding and limiting threats to lives and property. Consistent with other primary goals of the community, land use planning can call for the preservation of natural vegetation in the foothills and mountains that function as natural watersheds for local drainage and groundwater recharge and can affect the volume of stormwater and debris that reaches down- stream facilities.

Land use planning can also limit the exposure of people and improvements to storm hazards and damage. Restrictions on the type and location of structures in the vicinity of major drainages in the community can greatly reduce potential damage. Within the limits of improved and unimproved 100-year floodplains, development should be severely limited and regulated, with the prohibition of the construction of structures for human habitation. To promote sound land use and floodplain development, FEMA provides Flood Insurance Rate Maps for local and regional planners and civil engineers. These maps provide more detailed flood hazard map information, including the boundaries of the 100-year and 500-year flood zones.

The City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 15.28) provides flood hazard reduction measures including standards of construction, standards for utilities, subdivisions, manufactured homes and recreational vehicles. In flood zones subject to sheet flooding, development approvals should be conditioned to assure protection of improvements from flood damage. Protection measures may include raising the finished floor level above the flood depth projected for the surrounding area and providing protection against scouring. Until such time as flood protection that removes areas from severe threats of flooding is provided, development in these areas should be carefully regulated.

National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
The National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) implements the federal Clean Water Act and was adopted in 1990. It requires the development, adoption, and implementation of plans and programs for stormwater management, which among other things must effectively prohibit non stormwater discharge into the storm drain and require controls to reduce the discharge of pollutants from stormwater systems to designated Waters of the United States.

Riverside County municipalities and agencies, including the City of Rancho Mirage, Riverside Flood Control and Water Conservation District, and CVWD, have joined to develop and implement the 2001-2006 Stormwater Management Plan as part of NPDES
permitting requirements. This plan was designed to manage and control stormwater runoff to the maximum extent practical.

One of the primary strategies to comply with the provisions of NPDES is the use of onsite stormwater retention or detention basins in any new developments of one acre or larger. These facilities have long been required by the City and may in some instances include artificial wetlands that use a biologically active zone to break down potential pollutants before they can contaminate surface runoff or reach the water table through percolation. These intercept structures will also be important in capturing sand and sediment before it is discharged into drainage facilities. 9-130

7 Safety Element

FLOODING AND HYDROLOGY HAZARDS SAFETY GOALS, POLICIES,

AND PROGRAMS

The principal and direct implementation of the goals, policies, and programs in this section will occur through the use and enforcement of FEMA’s National Flood Insurance Plan (NFIP) guidelines and mitigation measures, NPDES requirements, and the application of CVWD’s regional plans and policies. These measures and their improvements help control and confine the areawide drainage pattern to more discreet and focused routes where it can be better managed. Proper implementation may also reveal locations of new facilities that could complement land use patterns, provide cost effective flood control alternatives, and maximize opportunities for multiple uses, including enhanced groundwater recharge.

The NFIP flood plain maps and guidelines will also set critical parameters for future development along areas subject to areawide flooding. This section will also be implemented through the development guidelines and regulations of the Rancho Mirage zoning, grading, and subdivision ordinances.

GOAL SAFE 2
Protection of lives, property, and essential facilities from flooding and other hydrologic hazards in Rancho Mirage.

POLICY SAFE 2.1
The City shall ensure that updated and effective master drainage plans are implemented in a timely fashion for the near and long- term protection of the community and its residents.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.1A
Proactively participate with the CVWD and the Riverside County Flood Control District in the development and updating of Rancho Mirage Regional master drainage plans, providing land use and other relevant data and information.

POLICY SAFE 2.2
The City shall provide drainage controls and improvements that enhance local conditions and are consistent with and complement the Master Drainage Plans.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2A
Establish and/or update local regulations and guidelines to direct the management of runoff and provide for local drainage facilities that tie into and maximize the effective use of regional drainage facilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2B
Adopt or update local drainage policies and development standards that reduce the rate of runoff from developed lands, consistent with capacities of public facilities and local and regional management plans, while pro- viding opportunities for open space enhancement and multiple uses.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2C
Confer and consult with the CVWD and Caltrans to assure adequate all weather crossings/facilities at appropriate locations along Highway 111 and I-10, especially those serving as emergency evacuation/access routes.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.2D
Ensure that emergency evacuation routes are constructed to appropriate all-weather standards.

POLICY SAFE 2.3
The City shall provide direction and guidelines for the development of onsite stormwater retention/detention facilities consistent with local and regional drainage plans and community design
standards.

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8 PROGRAM SAFE 2.3A
Establish and enforce regulations and guidelines for the development and maintenance of project-specific onsite
retention/detention basins that implement the NPDES program, enhance groundwater recharge, complement regional flood control facilities, and ad- dress applicable community design policies.

POLICY SAFE 2.4
The City shall cooperate with FEMA, when necessary, to amend Flood Insurance Rate Maps for areas in the city boundaries and SOI.

POLICY SAFE 2.5
Design major drainage facilities, including debris basins and flood control washes and channels, to balance their enhancement as wildlife habitat and community open space amenities with the functional requirements of these facilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 2.5A
Work closely with the CVWD to assure that design opportunities for enhanced open space and recreation amenities, including habitat enhancement and hiking and equestrian trails, are fully explored and incorporated when designing and constructing channels, debris and detention basins, and other major drainage facilities, to the greatest extent practical.

POLICY SAFE 2.6
The City shall establish Area Drainage Plans or Benefit Assessment Districts for purposes of funding needed drainage improvements, especially where defined tributary areas of the community are concerned.

POLICY SAFE 2.7
Development proposals located in areas that are subject to flooding shall be evaluated to minimize the exposure of life and property to potential flood risks. All development proposed on lands of one acre or larger shall be designed such that all stormwater to the level of a 100-year frequency storm, worst case of the 3, 6, 12, or 24-hour duration, shall be retained onsite.

POLICY SAFE 2.8
Locate new essential public facilities outside of flood hazard zones, including hospitals and health care facilities, emergency shelters, fire stations, emergency command centers, and emergency communications facilities.

Fire Hazards
Purpose

The Fire Hazards section identifies existing fire hazards in or near Rancho Mirage and describes the regulatory environment
established to safely manage these hazards. The intention of the Fire Hazard section is to reinforce the City’s concern and planning for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents. The section sets forth goals, policies, and programs that will help assure an effective management of fire hazards in Rancho Mirage, and guard the general health, safety, and welfare of the community from possible impacts associated with fire hazards. This section was reviewed to incorporate the advice included in the Office of Planning and Research’s most recent publication of “Fire Hazard Planning, General Plan Technical Advice Series” (May 2015).

Background

Fires can occur in urban environments as well as unpopulated areas that may contain brush or grassland. The central and northern portions of Rancho Mirage are urbanized with few remaining vacant lands. The remaining southern area of Rancho Mirage is in an undeveloped mountain and hillside reserve. These two area types include two fire hazard categories that are of interest to Rancho Mirage and its SOI: vegetation fires and urban or structural fires. With large portions of Rancho Mirage’s boundaries adjoining uninhabited mountain and hillside reserve areas that are rated as high fire threats, the potential for wildfires is high. The urban areas in Rancho Mirage also face common fire hazards.

Wildland Fire Hazards

Large areas of southern California are particularly susceptible to wildfire due to the region’s weather, topography, and native vegetation. The typically mild, wet winters characteristic of the region’s Mediterranean climate result in an annual growth of grass- es and plants that dry out during the hot summer months. This dry vegetation provides fuel for wildfires in the autumn, when the area is intermittently impacted by Santa Ana conditions, including the hot, dry winds that blow across the region in the late fall. These winds often fan and help spread the fires.

The undeveloped areas in Rancho Mirage are characterized by steep topographic gradients that are generally conducive to spreading wildfires. Furthermore, the area’s hot, dry summer and autumn weather is ideal for generating the dry vegetation that fuels most wildfires. Fortunately, the only recorded historical wildfire near the planning area is the Dry Falls fire that occurred in August 1980 to the southeast of Rancho Mirage. The reason that most of the undeveloped areas of Rancho Mirage have not been impacted by wildland fire is that most of the rugged terrain is so steep, rocky, and dry that few plants thrive in the area. As a result, the amount of fuel available for wildland fires is very limited, and the distance between stands of vegetation is too great for fires to spread easily.

In the developed areas of Rancho Mirage, the landscape
vegetation is carefully maintained and watered regularly, creating conditions that limit the possibility for vegetation fires to ignite and spread.

The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (Cal- Fire) ranks fire hazard of wildland areas of the state using four main criteria: fuels, weather, assets at risk, and level of service. Although Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) are mapped in the Rancho Mirage area, the historical record indicates that the wildland fire hazard in Rancho Mirage is relatively low. CalFire has mapped several fire hazard zones in Rancho Mirage and the SOI, shown in Exhibit 27.

There are no state responsibility areas (SRAs) in the City of Rancho Mirage. The only Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone in Local Responsibility Area (LRA) within the City is in the southern end of urban areas. The VHFHSZ consists of part of a single-family residence (70000 Thunderbird Mesa Drive) and undeveloped land. The undeveloped portion is designated as Mountain Reserve per the Land Use Map and will not be developed in the future.

Urban and Structural Fires

To quantify the structural fire risk in a community it is necessary for the local fire departments to evaluate all occupancies based upon their product type, size, construction type, built-in protection (such as internal fire sprinkler systems), and risk (high-occupancy versus low-occupancy) to determine if they can control a fire if it occurs in the types of structures identified. In newer residential areas where construction includes fire-resistant materials and internal fire sprinklers, most structural fires can be confined to the building or property of origin. In older residential areas where the building materials may not be fire-rated and the structures are not fitted with fire sprinklers, there is a higher probability of a structural fire impacting adjacent structures. With the varied type and age of structures in Rancho Mirage, structural fire risk is divided into four categories:
› High Probability/High Consequences (e.g., multi-family dwellings, high-occupancy hotels and resorts, single-family residential homes in the older sections of Rancho Mirage, hazardous materials occupancies, and large shopping centers › Low Probability/High Consequences (e.g., hospitals and other medical facilities, mid-size shopping malls, industrial occupancies, office complexes, and upscale homes in the hills or mountains, in or adjacent to high to very high fire threat areas)
› High Probability/Low Consequences (e.g., older detached single-family dwellings with properly maintained landscaping) › Low Probability/Low Consequences (e.g., newer detached single-family dwellings and small office buildings with properly maintained landscaping).

Most buildings and structures in the City are not in or adjoining a mountainous area or lands covered by forest, brush or grass or other flammable material. Therefore, no mandatory clearance 9-132

9 Safety Element
around the structures applies per Public Resources Code Section 4291. Those buildings or structures immediately adjoining the mountainous areas in the south of the City would need to provide clearance as required by law. Within the City, there is only one development (70000 Thunderbird Mesa Drive) partially located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, and the only evacuation route would be via Thunderbird Mesa Drive downhill to Highway 111.

The City maintains roadway standards that are detailed in the Circulation Element of this General Plan, which include minimum road widths to ensure accessibility for emergency vehicles and crew under various conditions.

Fire services for the City of Rancho Mirage are provided through a cooperative agreement with the State of California (Cal-Fire) and Riverside County. Cal-Fire/Riverside County Fire Department is an all risk, full service fire department and has two fire stations located strategically throughout Rancho Mirage to provide highly effective protection. Fire Station 69 serves North Rancho Mirage at 71751 Gerald Ford Drive, and Fire Station 50 serves South Rancho Mirage at 70801 Highway 111. Additionally, the City
participates in the regional cooperative agreement and benefits from resources responding from other nearby stations, ensuring that peak loads and major incidents are handled promptly. There are no gaps in the City for emergency service, and all areas including the VHFHSZ have adequate access to fire and emergency
services.

Peak Water Demand and Supply

The availability of water is critical to effective fire suppression. The CVWD provides water services to Rancho Mirage and has a total groundwater storage capacity of 30 million acre-feet (one acre- foot equals 325,850 gallons) in the Indio Subbasin. The City and its SOI maintains a peak summer daily water demand of 41 mgd (approximately 126 acre-feet). CalFire has general water flow requirements of 1,500 gallons per minute (gpm) for new
development and 3,000 gpm for new commercial development.

Table 36 lists fire suppression water flow requirements by land use.

TABLE 36 WATER FLOW REQUIREMENTS FOR FIRE PROTECTION

LAND USE WATER FLOW
Agriculture / Open Space 1,000 gpm for 2 hours
Single-family Residential 1,500 gpm for 2 hours
Multi-family Residential / High Density 2,500 gpm for 2 hours Commercial / Industrial 3,000 gpm for 3 hours
Source: California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection 2004

According to Insurance Services Office, Inc., the fire suppression system rating for Rancho Mirage is Class 3. This includes fire dis- patch (operators, alarm dispatch circuits, telephone lines available), fire department (equipment available, personnel, training, distribution of companies), and water supply (adequacy, condition, number and installation of fire hydrants). The rating scale is from 1 to 10 with the worst rating being a Class 10 and the best rating a Class 1. CalFire has a five-year plan that outlines fire hazards and risks, cost effectiveness, and present and future fire protection needs.

Emergency Preparedness

The purpose of emergency preparedness is to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the general public before, during, and after natural and human emergencies. These emergencies include flooding, high winds, earthquakes, hazardous material accidents, wild- fire, and other natural and man-made events. The City maintains a multi-hazard functional plan, that addresses the planned response to extraordinary emergency situations
associated with natural or human caused disasters, technological incidents, and nuclear defense operations. Additionally, the City and Eisenhower Medical Center have partnered to establish an Emergency Operations Center at Sunnylands.

The City adopted an update to its Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP) in 2018. The City’s LHMP is integrated into Riverside County’s LHMP as an annex to ensure a unified and coordinated effort by all cities within the County in the event of a disaster.

County of Riverside Multi-Jurisdictional Local
Hazard Mitigation Plan
The City participates in the Riverside County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan (LHMP). The County’s LHMP was most recently updated and adopted by the County of Riverside in 2018, and approved by FEMA that same year. The 2018 plan updated the 2012 plan, and according to the text in the document itself, carries the very same purpose, which is to create a safer community. The goals and objectives, along with any mitigation strategies that are listed in the County’s LHMP and which may be relevant in Rancho Mirage, shall be considered appurtenant to the Goals, Policies, and Programs in this General Plan.

In addition to emergency services provided by the Riverside County Fire Department, the California Department of Forestry, and the Sheriff’s Department, the American Red Cross provides a wide range of emergency response support services in Rancho Mirage, ranging from a single residential fire to community-wide disasters.

Evacuation Routes
The availability of evacuation routes is critical in times of emergencies. Rancho Mirage’s location in the Coachella Valley allows for two main evacuation routes (I-10 and Highway 111) along with primary and minor arterial streets serving as secondary routes. Since earthquakes, floods, fires, or other disasters may render certain routes impassible, specific evacuation routes may need to be designated during an emergency.

FIRE HAZARDS GOALS, POLICIES, AND PROGRAMS

GOAL SAFE 3
Protection of the lives and property of residents, business owners, and visitors from structural and wildland fires.

GOAL SAFE 4
Emergency preparedness and response programs that provide for fast and effective response to daily emergencies and major catastrophes.

POLICY SAFE 4.1
The City shall minimize the exposure of residents, business owners, and visitors to the impacts of structural and wildland fires.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.1A
Maintain a weed abatement program to ensure clearing of dry brush areas. The Public Works Department and Code Compliance Division shall monitor public and private roads clearance.

Coordinate with the Fire Department to assess the need of community fire breaks and devise a plan for long-term
maintenance, where necessary.

POLICY SAFE 4.2
The City shall conduct long-range fire safety planning, including enforcement of stringent building, fire, subdivision and other Municipal Code standards, improved infrastructure, and mutual aid agreements with other public agencies and the private sector.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2A
Require properties within or adjacent to Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones to comply with Riverside County Fire Department Wildfire Safety Recommendations for fuel modification plans and defensible space. Coordinate with the Fire Department to reach out to property owners and achieve compliance on the
recommendations and additional requirements, including visible home address and street signage.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2B
Evaluate the adequacy of access routes to and from hazard areas relative to the degree of development or use (e.g., road width, road type, length of dead- end roads, etc.) Development of non- conforming sites requires a conditional use permit. The city will coordinate with the fire department through the CUP process to address substandard fire safety standards, especially regarding roads and vegetative hazards.
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10 PROGRAM SAFE 4.2C
Maintain the City’s emergency plan, including an inventory and evaluation of all local and regional emergency resources.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2D
The City shall consider the development and identification of citywide evacuation routes.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.2E
Require redevelopment in Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) to comply with the latest California Building Standards Code (Title 24), including the California Fire Code (Part 9).

Coordinate with the Fire Department on evaluation of rebuilding after a large fire and require additional fire safe measures where necessary.

POLICY SAFE 4.3
The City shall support area-wide mutual aid agreements and communication links with Riverside County authorities and other participating jurisdictions.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.3A
The City shall adhere to the guidelines set forth in the County of Riverside Multi-Jurisdictional Hazard Mitigation Plan.

POLICY SAFE 4.4
The City shall ensure adequate provision of public information to residents and businesses on actions to minimize damage and facilitate recovery from a natural disaster. Prioritize at-risk populations such as those within or near fire hazard zones.

PROGRAM SAFE 4.4A
Coordinate with public agencies and non-profit organizations to promote emergency preparedness and response training such as the Riverside County Community Emergency Response Team
(CERT) program and the Coachella Valley Disaster Preparedness Network (CVDPN) training and resources.

Hazardous and Toxic Materials
Purpose

The Hazardous and Toxic Materials section identifies existing hazardous and toxic material locations in the community and describes the regulatory environment established to safely manage these materials. The intent of the section is to reinforce the City’s concern and planning for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents and visitors from adverse impacts due to the presence of hazardous and toxic materials. The section sets forth goals, policies, and programs that will help assure an effective response to and protection from the use, storage, or transport of hazardous and toxic materials in Rancho Mirage.

Background

A wide variety of products, chemical and purified chemical compounds, and elements that are considered hazardous or toxic are used in households, commercial business- es, and industrial operations and processes. They range through home and pool related chlorine products, chemical fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides, stored fuels and waste oil, chemical solvents and lubricants, and a variety of medical materials. The improper use and management of hazardous materials can pose a significant potential threat to the community and its environment.

Community Hazardous Wastes Risks

There are only a few identified hazardous/toxic material generators in Rancho Mirage. These are associated with
commercial, quasi industrial, and medical operations, which have the potential to be connected to accidental spills, purposeful illegal dumping, air emission, and other uncontrolled discharges into the environment. All are considered “small quantity generators,” and some of those identified in Rancho Mirage include the Eisenhower Medical Center and Desert Orthopedic Center.

Eisenhower Medical Center (EMC) is a “small quantity genera- tor” of hazardous medical wastes associated with various procedures and treatments provided at the facility. Management 9-134

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and disposal of these materials is primarily the responsibility of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, with additional regulatory responsibility given to the California Office of Health Planning and Development and the Riverside County Department of Health.

EMC has developed and implemented both a Medical Waste
Management Plan and a Hazardous Materials Management
Program, which set forth policies, programs, and procedures for handling, storage, use, and disposal of these materials. Wastes are stored in controlled conditions onsite and removed every 90 days, with storage typically limited to less than 100 gallons each 90 days.

Additionally, there are other sites that have been or should be monitored. These include other waste generating medical clinics and facilities, gasoline service stations, equipment and fuel storage yards, and waste haulers.

The U.S. EPA requires all service stations to retrofit or replace underground storage tanks with double walled construction. All sites in Rancho Mirage have achieved compliance with this rule.

A sanitary landfill was operated on a 57-acre site located in the southwest quarter of Section 11 in the City’s SOI, south of the Southern Pacific Railroad lines. This landfill was operated by the Cathedral City Sanitary District between 1955 and 1967 using the then standard “burn and bury” technique. From 1983 to the end of 1988, the easterly 40 acres of the site were used as a domestic sewage disposal field.

Hazardous Waste Management Plans

Per the Environmental Protection Agency of the state of California (CalEPA), Californians are protected from hazardous waste and materials by a Unified Program that ensures consistency through- out the state in regard to administrative requirements, permits,

1 Certified Unified Program Agencies
2 Riverside County Environmental

inspections and enforcement. CalEPA oversees the program as a whole, and certifies 83 local government agencies known as Certified Unified Program Agencies (CUPA) to implement the hazardous waste and materials standards set by five different state agencies.1

The Riverside County Environmental Health Hazardous Materials Branch is the sole overseeing agency for hazardous waste generation throughout the county. The purpose of the hazardous waste program is to ensure that hazardous wastes will be properly managed and disposed of in order to protect both people and environment.2

The City has the opportunity to coordinate with appropriate county, state, and federal agencies in the identification of hazardous material sites and the active regulation of their timely cleanup.

Management strategies may include establishing and maintaining information on these sites, periodic monitoring facilities, and operations that produce, utilize, or store hazardous materials in Rancho Mirage. Involvement in multi-agency monitoring of illegal dumping in Rancho Mirage, conferring in the regulation of underground storage tanks and septic systems, and regulating the transport of hazardous materials through the community is also appropriate. The City hazardous waste management policies for the General Plan are essentially an extension of the County’s policies and procedures.

Several sources provide information concerning hazardous waste sites in Rancho Mirage. The California Regional Water Quality Control Board and the CVWD maintain information concerning contaminated wells and groundwater. The state and federal environmental protection agencies and the state Department of Health also supply information concerning specific hazardous waste sites and their locations.

3 All information regarding hazardous materials was obtained from the Riverside Department of Environmental Health at
www.rivcoeh.org/hazmat
Hazardous Materials Response

Hazardous and toxic materials pose a threat to public safety if not properly regulated. CalEPA designated the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health Hazardous Materials Branch as the CUPA for Riverside County. The role of the CUPA is to assure consolidation, consistency and coordination of the hazardous materials programs in the county. The CUPA also oversees the two participating agencies (the City of Corona Fire Department and the Riverside County Fire Department) that implement hazardous materials programs in the county.

The Riverside County Department of Environmental Health, Hazardous Materials Branch is responsible for overseeing the six hazardous materials programs in the county. This agency is responsible for inspecting facilities that handle hazardous mate- rials, generate hazardous waste, treat hazardous waste, own/ operate underground storage tanks, own/operate aboveground petroleum storage tanks, or handle other materials subject to the California Accidental Release Program. In addition, the branch maintains an emergency response team that handles hazardous materials and other environmental health emergencies 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.3

Hazardous And Toxic Materials Goals, Policies, And
Programs

The City has the responsibility to coordinate with the appropriate agencies in the identification of hazardous material sites and the active regulation of their timely cleanup. This section’s programs of oversight and management between responsible agencies can most efficiently be implemented through regular consultation with the RWQCB and the County Health Department and by updating information on hazardous material sites and monitoring facilities that utilize or produce hazardous materials in Rancho Mirage. The

City should also remain current regarding the monitoring and regulating of underground storage tanks and septic systems and regulating the transport of hazardous materials through Rancho Mirage.

GOAL SAFE 5
The continued safety of Rancho Mirage residents and visitors through the regulation of the manufacture, transport, use, and disposal of toxic and hazardous materials.

POLICY SAFE 5.1
The City shall regulate, to the extent empowered, the delivery, use, and storage of hazardous materials in city limits and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.1A
The City shall compile and maintain an inventory of all hazardous waste sites in Rancho Mirage and surrounding jurisdictions.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.1B
The City shall develop a permitting process for the establishment of facilities that manufacture, store, use, or dispose of hazardous and toxic materials in the community or adjacent areas, should it be determined that the need for such a use be realized.

POLICY SAFE 5.2
The City shall require and facilitate the safe and responsible disposal and cleanup of all hazardous/toxic waste and waste sites in Rancho Mirage and the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2A
The City shall coordinate with the appropriate state and federal agencies to activate procedures for the cleanup of existing and future hazardous and toxic waste sites. 9-135

12 PROGRAM SAFE 5.2B
The City shall prepare and/or disseminate information and instructive education program materials for residents, including direction on the identification and proper management and disposal of household hazardous waste.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2C
To the extent empowered, the City shall prohibit the disposal of automotive and household hazardous and toxic materials in landfills.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2D
The City shall coordinate with Burrtec and other appropriate public and quasi-public agencies to sponsor and develop drop off locations for hazardous or toxic household products for all Rancho Mirage residents.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.2E
The City shall coordinate with appropriate agencies to identify the locations and monitor the use of all underground fuel storage tanks located in city limits with the potential to release hazardous or toxic materials into the environment.

POLICY SAFE 5.3
The City shall coordinate with the Fire and Sheriff’s Department to develop a system for roadway management and for alerting emergency and medical facilities to the impending transport of hazardous and toxic materials.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.3A
The City shall coordinate with appropriate departments and agencies to establish transportation management and contingency emergency procedures and training programs for police, fire, medical, and other organizations that would be involved in an airborne release or ground spill of hazardous and toxic materials or waste.
4 Cal-Adapt
PROGRAM SAFE 5.3B
Follow the response procedures as outlined by the Riverside County Department of Environmental Health in the event of hazardous materials emergency.

POLICY SAFE 5.4
The City shall coordinate with the Regional Water Quality Control Board and the CVWD to monitor and regulate the use and phased removal of subsurface sewage disposal systems.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.4A
Through the subdivision and development review process, the City shall require, to the greatest extent practical, the connection of new development to the sewage collection system of the CVWD.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.4B
The City shall cooperate with the appropriate agencies to help assure that all subsurface sewage disposal systems, upon completion of their use, are properly removed from service.

POLICY SAFE 5.5
The City shall actively oppose any plan or attempt to establish hazardous and toxic waste dumps/landfills or hazardous industrial processes with the potential to adversely affect Rancho Mirage or the SOI.

PROGRAM SAFE 5.5A
The City shall coordinate with CVAG and its member cities to actively organize against and oppose any County, state, federal, or private effort to build or operate hazardous or toxic waste dumps/landfills or to operate hazardous industrial processes, which cannot be mitigated and have the potential to adversely affect Rancho Mirage or the SOI.

Climate Change
Purpose
Climate change is already affecting California cities, as seen by the rise in sea levels, average temperatures, and extreme hot days.

These climate driven changes have many consequences that affect California’s health and prosperity such as the increased frequency of wildfires, pressure on water supplies, shifts in growing seasons, and the increase in populations that will be exposure to intense heat waves.

Rancho Mirage recognizes that understanding its vulnerability and planning for the increased effects of climate change is crucial to the livelihood and safety of its residents. This Climate Change section provides a brief overlook of the leading climate factors that affect Rancho Mirage and its vulnerability to each. The intent of this section is to reinforce the City’s concern for the protection of all Rancho Mirage residents and visitors from the adverse impacts of climate change and to set forth goals, policies, and programs that will help the City to adapt to these changes.

Background
As discussed in the Conservation and Open Space Element, Rancho Mirage is already subject to extreme temperatures and aridity, and the intensity of these conditions will only increase with climate change. The three major climate factors that will impact Rancho Mirage in the future are temperature, precipitation, and wildfire risk.

Temperature
Average Temperature
Overall temperatures are expected to rise throughout this century.

During the next few decades, scenarios project average
temperature to rise between 1 and 2.3°F. Rancho Mirage has already experienced a 2.0°F increase compared to the end of the last century (i.e., 1961-1990). This change in temperature is projected to increase to 3.0°F by 2040. Currently, the average annual temperature for Rancho Mirage is approximately 74°F. The temperature can drop into the low 30's in the winter and can exceed 120°F in the summer.

Extreme Heat Days
The most serious threats to the public health of Californians will stem primarily from the increased frequency of extreme conditions, principally more frequent extreme heat days, and more frequent, intense, and longer heat waves. An extreme heat day is typically defined as a day in April through October where the maximum temperature exceeds the 98th historical percentile of maximum temperatures, based on daily temperature data between 1961 and 1990. A heat wave is defined as five or more consecutive extreme heat days. An increase in heat waves may increase the risk of directly related conditions such as heat stroke and dehydration.

An extreme heat day for Rancho Mirage is when the temperature exceeds 114°F.43 Even though the number of heat days varies from year-to-year, the average is projected to increase in the future (Exhibit 28). As the number of heat days per year steadily increases over time, Rancho Mirage must be prepared to protect its resident’s health and safety.

Precipitation
Changes in precipitation patterns will affect public health primarily through extreme events such as floods, droughts and wildfires. In addition, higher temperatures combined with changes in
precipitation patterns create conditions that are more conducive to the occurrence and spread of infectious diseases. On average, the projections show little change in total annual precipitation in California. Furthermore, precipitation projections do not show a consistent trend during the next century. However, even modest changes would have a significant impact because California ecosystems are conditioned to historical precipitation levels and water resources are nearly fully utilized.

Rancho Mirage has had an average rainfall of 5.74 inches over the last 30 years, which is 85 percent less than the average nationwide, and 77 percent less than the average in California.

Average rainfall in Rancho Mirage is predicted to decline to approximately four inches per year by 2040. This decrease in annual precipitation is not expected to have a significant impact on Rancho Mirage, due to the limited amount of water they already receive. 9-136

13 Safety Element

Wildfire Risk

Decreased precipitation and drought also result in increased frequency and duration of wildfires, another significant risk to public health. Wildfire frequency and intensity is expected to grow as temperatures increase and vegetation dries due to longer dry seasons, especially in mountainous areas. In addition to the as- sociated direct risk of fatalities, wildfires can lead to immediate and long-term adverse public health problems due to exposure to smoke. Smoke from wildfires is a mixture of carbon dioxide, water vapor, carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and other organic
chemicals, nitrogen oxides, trace metals, and fine particulate matter from burning trees, plants, and built structures. During wildfires, large populations can be exposed to a complex mixture of pollutant gases and particles, which can have both acute and chronic health impacts. Smoke can irritate the eyes, harm the respiratory system, and worsen chronic heart and lung disease, including asthma. People with existing cardiopulmonary diseases are generally at the greatest risk from smoke inhalation, with age being a complicating risk factor for the exposed population.

Further details regarding wildfire in Rancho Mirage are de- scribed in Fire Hazards above.

Climate Change Goals, Policies, And Programs

The City has the responsibility to coordinate with state, regional, and County agencies to establish and maintain an up-to-date database on climate change conditions in the region, legislation affecting the City’s regulatory responsibilities, and changing technical assessments that refine or re-characterize the climate change impacts affecting the region. The City should also monitor the effectiveness of its adaptation strategies. The City’s development review process must assure that development proposals are thoroughly evaluated with regard to climate change and that comprehensive mitigation measures are developed and implemented. The City will need to take a proactive role to assure the public is safe by informing them about severity of climate change impacts and what resources are available to them to mitigate these impacts.

GOAL SAFE 6
Maintenance of Rancho Mirage as a safe place with a high- quality of life for its residents, businesses, and visitors in the face of climate change.

POLICY SAFE 6.1
The City shall identify and periodically reassess local climate change vulnerabilities.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.1A
Conduct a climate change vulnerability assessment of vulnerable populations, structures, and functions.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.1B
Review the findings of the climate change vulnerability assessment with relevant City departments to ensure that vulnerable community populations, structures, and functions are understood and that appropriate actions are taken to protect these vulnerabilities.

POLICY SAFE 6.2
The City shall develop adaptation measures that address the climate change impacts on Rancho Mirage’s residents, businesses, and visitors.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.2A
Develop a heat response plan that includes identification of cooling centers and promotion of urban heat mitigation strategies.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.2B
Improve wildfire prevention through regulations of new
development, establish and/or maintain cooperative fire agreements, and increase vegetation management efforts to reduce wildfire potential.

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14 PROGRAM SAFE 6.2C
Incorporate newly identified adaptation measures into planning documents, including the Hazard Inventory and Hazard Mitigation Plan, as appropriate.

POLICY SAFE 6.3
The City shall support initiatives, legislation, and actions to respond to climate change and consider potential climate change impacts in planning and decision making processes.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.3A
Coordinate adaptation planning with other planning, including future General Plan/ land use code updates.

POLICY SAFE 6.4
The City shall work with local organizations to raise awareness about climate change impacts.

PROGRAM SAFE 6.4A
Collaborate with community-based organizations (e.g., health care providers, public health advocates, fire prevention organizations) to disseminate public preparedness and emergency response information related to climate change.

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ATTACHMENT 5

DRAFT NOTICE OF DETERMINATION

(SEE ATTACHED)
9-139

Notice of Determination
To: Office of Planning and Research From: City of Rancho Mirage 1400 Tenth Street, Room 121 69825 Highway 111
Sacramento, CA 95814 Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
County Clerk
County of Riverside
2724 Gateway Drive
Riverside, CA 92507
Subject Filing of Notice of Determination in compliance with Section 21108 or 21152 of the Public Resources Code.

Project Title:

Rancho Mirage Housing and Safety Element Updates
Case No. EA21-0005 and GPTA21-0001
State Clearinghouse Number: Contact Person: Area Code / Telephone / Extension:
(If submitted to Clearinghouse)
N/A Majna Dukic, Planning Manager 760-328-2266
Project Location (include county)
City-wide in the City of Rancho Mirage, Riverside County Project Description
The Housing Element is one of the mandated Elements of the City’s General Plan. It analyzes the demographics of the City population and existing housing stock, and considers the future needs for housing in the City, with a particular focus on affordable housing, and housing for special needs households, including seniors, disabled persons, large families, single parent households and the homeless. It also provides the City’s decision makers with Goals, Policies and Programs intended to facilitate the development and preservation of adequate housing supply to meet these needs.

The State has established a mandatory update schedule for Housing Elements, which the City is complying with. This Update addresses the planning period from 2021 to 2029.

The Safety Element is updated to address changes in the requirements of law including fire hazard mapping and emergency preparedness. The Safety Element Update reflects the current fire hazard mapping by CalFire. The Update also expanded discussion on flood hazard, fire hazard and emergency response by referring to the City’s Floodplain Management Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 15.28), the Local Hazard Mitigation Plan adopted by the City in 2018 and Riverside County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan approved by FEMA and adopted in 2018.

This is to advise that the City of Rancho Mirage has approved the above described project on ____________________.

Lead Agency Responsible Agency
and has made the following determinations regarding the above described projects.

1.The project (will will not) have a significant effect on the environment.

2. A Mitigated Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA.

A Negative Declaration was prepared for this project pursuant to the provisions of CEQA

3.Mitigation measures ( were were not) made a condition of the approval of the project.

4.A mitigation reporting or monitoring plan ( was was not) adopted

5.A statement of Overriding Considerations ( was was not) adopted.

6.Findings ( were were not) made pursuant to the provisions of CEQA.

This is to certify that the Initial Study with comments and responses and record of project approval is available to the General Public at Rancho Mirage City Hall, 69825 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.

Planning Manager
Signature (Public Agency) Date Title

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ATTACHMENT 6

NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

(SEE ATTACHED)
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CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE
69-825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, California 92270
Phone: (760) 328-2266
Fax: (760) 324-9851

ENVIRONMENTAL INITIAL STUDY

Project Title: Rancho Mirage Housing and Safety Element Updates

City Project No.: General Plan Text Amendment GPTA21-0001 and Environmental Assessment EA21-0005

Lead Agency City of Rancho Mirage Name and Address: 69-825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, California 92270
Phone: (760) 328-2266 Fax: (760) 324-9851

Project Sponsor’s Name City of Rancho Mirage
and Address: 69-825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, California 92270

Contact Person Majna Dukic, Planning Manager
And Phone Number: Phone: (760) 328-2266, Extension 210

Project Location: City-wide

Project Area: ±25.4 square miles—the current City boundary.

General Plan Designation: All

Zoning Designation: All
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TABLE OF CONTENTS

PROJECT DESCRIPTION ................................................................................................................................ 4 EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS ................................................................................. 6

1. AESTHETICS.............................................................................................................................................. 9

2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES ................................................................................ 10

3. AIR QUALITY .......................................................................................................................................... 11

4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES ................................................................................................................... 13

5. CULTURAL RESOURCES ...................................................................................................................... 14

6. ENERGY ................................................................................................................................................... 15

7. GEOLOGY / SOILS .................................................................................................................................. 17

8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS .......................................................................................................... 19

9. HAZARDS & HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ........................................................................................... 21

10. HYDROLOGY / WATER QUALITY ...................................................................................................... 23

11. LAND USE / PLANNING ........................................................................................................................ 25

12. MINERAL RESOURCES ......................................................................................................................... 27

13. NOISE ........................................................................................................................................................ 28

14. POPULATION / HOUSING ..................................................................................................................... 29

15. PUBLIC SERVICES ................................................................................................................................. 30

16. RECREATION .......................................................................................................................................... 31

17. TRANSPORTATION ................................................................................................................................ 32

18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES ....................................................................................................... 34

19. UTILITIES SERVICE SYSTEMS ............................................................................................................ 35

20. WILDFIRES .............................................................................................................................................. 37

21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE ................................................................................... 38

REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................................................... 39

Table 1: Proposed Land Uses ......................................................................................................................3

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PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Housing Element is one of the mandated Elements of the City’s General Plan. It analyzes the demographics of the City population and existing housing stock, and considers the future needs for housing in the City, with a particular focus on affordable housing, and housing for special needs households, including seniors, disabled persons, large families, single parent households and the homeless. It also provides the City’s decision makers with Goals, Policies and Programs intended to facilitate the development and preservation of adequate housing supply to meet these needs. The State has established a mandatory update schedule for Housing Elements, which the City is complying with. This Update addresses the planning period from 2021 to 2029. During this timeframe, the City has been allocated the following housing units under the Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) developed by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG):

Table 1 Regional Housing Needs Allocation, 2022 to 2029 Income Category Number Of Units
Extremely low income 215
Very low income 215
Low income 318
Moderate income 328
Above moderate income 670
Total 1,746
Note that the extremely low and very low income categories are 50% each of the 429 units assigned for the very low category.

Source: SCAG
This Update consists primarily of statistical updates (particularly relating to updating the 2010 Census and American Community Survey information in the Element to 2018 American Community Survey information), and reassessing housing needs based on these changes in demographics. This Update added sites identified for future housing, including parcels within the Highway 111 Specific Plan area, and the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park site. There are a few policy changes in this Housing Element Update that will affect densities at future housing sites:
-Under Program H9.A, the City will apply the High Density Residential (R-H) zoning to the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park site, which is currently zoned as Mobile Home Park (MHP). - This Update added a new program (Program H1.D) for the City to create an affordable housing overlay in the Zoning Ordinance, which will allow a base density of up to 28 dwelling units per acre (du/ac), not including density bonus provisions. Under Program H9.A, this overlay will be applied to both Rancho Palms and Monterey Village sites, and the City will consider up to 28 du/ac when future projects are proposed.
-Per Program H1.C in the Update, the City will update its Density Bonus Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 17.22) to be consistent with state law (Government Code Section 65915), which provides for up to 50% density bonus depending on the affordable units mix.

Other changes in policies and programs address changes in the requirements of law since the City last updated its Housing Element in 2013. These changes in law addressed various housing-related issues. The most recent update to Housing Element law occurred in 2017, when a series of bills were passed into law to address the State-wide housing crisis. For example, AB 686 was passed by California Legislature in 2018 requiring that all housing elements due on or after January 1, 2021 must contain an Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) consistent with the 9-144

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core elements of the analysis required by the federal Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Final Rule (2015). This Update includes an AFH that analyzes patterns of segregation and equal access to opportunity within the City, consistent with AFFH Final Rule.

Current Conditions
The current Housing Element of the City’s 2017 General Plan applies to the 2014-2021 planning period. The current Element facilitates housing development and preservation throughout the City consistent with residential land use designations in the Land Use Element and Zoning Ordinance, to meet the RHNA assigned to the City at the time.

Project Location and Limits
The City is in Township 4 South & Township 5 South, Range 5 East, & Township 5 South Range 6 East, San Bernardino Base & Meridian (see USGS Rancho Mirage 7.5-minute quadrangle map).

Surrounding Land Uses
Not applicable. The Housing Element applies to all lands throughout the City. 9-145

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EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:

Summary of CEQA Findings

The Housing Element will have no direct impact on the environment. Adoption of the Housing Element will not result in the development of housing. The adoption of the Housing Element will potentially allow more units than planned for or analyzed in the General Plan. In the future, when housing projects are proposed, the City will review each of these projects to address environmental issues associated with the particular project. Because housing could occur throughout the City, the specific conditions at any one project site may differ significantly from another, and site-specific analysis is appropriate when projects are proposed.

Purpose of this Initial Study

This Initial Study has been prepared in conformance with Section 15063 and other applicable sections of the CEQA Guidelines, to determine if the project, as proposed, may have a significant effect upon the environment. Based upon the findings contained within this report, the Initial Study will be used in support of the preparation of a Negative Declaration.

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ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:

The environmental factors checked below would be potentially affected by this project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact" as indicated by the checklist on the following pages.

Top of Form
Aesthetics Agriculture and
Forestry Resources Air Quality
Biological Resources Cultural Resources Energy
Geology /Soils Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
Hazards & Hazardous
Materials
Hydrology / Water
Quality Land Use / Planning Mineral Resources
Noise Population / Housing Public Services
Recreation Transportation Tribal Cultural Resources
Utilities / Service
Systems Wildfires Mandatory Findings of
Significance
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DETERMINATION: (To be completed by the Lead Agency)
On the basis of this initial evaluation:

________________________________________________________ Signature: Majna Dukic, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage

__________________
Date:

I find that the proposed project COULD NOT have a significant effect on the environment, and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.

I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in this case because revisions in the project have been made by or agreed to by the project proponent. A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION will be prepared.

I find that the proposed project MAY have a significant effect on the environment, and an ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.

I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" or "potentially significant unless mitigated" impact on the environment, but at least one effect 1) has been adequately analyzed in an earlier document pursuant to applicable legal standards, and 2) has been addressed by mitigation measures based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets. An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required, but it must analyze only the effects that remain to be addressed.

I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, because all potentially significant effects (a) have been analyzed adequately in an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided or mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION, including revisions or mitigation measures that are imposed upon the proposed project, nothing further is required. 10/25/2021
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Environmental Checklist and Discussion:

The following checklist evaluates the proposed project’s potential adverse impacts. For those environmental topics for which a potential adverse impact may exist, a discussion of the existing site environment related to the topic is presented followed by an analysis of the project’s potential adverse impacts. When the project does not have any potential for adverse impacts for an environmental topic, the reasons why there are no potential adverse impacts are described.

1. AESTHETICS – Except as provided in Public
Resource Code Section 21099, would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Have a substantial adverse effect on a scenic
vista?
b) Substantially damage scenic resources, including,
but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and
historic buildings within a state scenic highway?

c) In non-urbanized areas, substantially degrade
the existing visual character or quality of public
views of the site and its surroundings? (Public
views are those that are experienced from publicly
accessible vantage point). If the project is in an
urbanized area, would the project conflict with
applicable zoning and other regulations governing
scenic quality?

d) Create a new source of substantial light or glare,
which would adversely affect day or nighttime
views in the area?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan 2017; Rancho Mirage Zoning Ordinance, as amended; Officially Designated State Scenic Highways Map, Caltrans.

Background
The Coachella Valley and City of Rancho Mirage are distinguished by the low-lying desert valley floor surrounded by the high terrain of the San Jacinto, San Bernardino, Little San Bernardino, and Santa Rosa Mountains. These contrasting viewsheds result in an exceptional display of open space and mountain scenery that is a major component of the aesthetic quality of the area. Views of the mountain ranges and expanses of desert floor are highly valued by the community.

The segment of Highway 111 through the City of Rancho Mirage is not designated as scenic highways in the California State Scenic Highway Program, but classified as eligible.

a-d) No Impact. The Housing and Safety Element Updates will have no impact on aesthetics, scenic vistas or light and glare. In the future, development of individual housing projects will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis for their potential effect on scenic vistas and scenic resources. The City’s building height limits in the Zoning Code and the policies of the General Plan and Specific Plans prevent the construction of large buildings that block scenic vistas. Future projects will be required to adhere to applicable zoning and other regulations on scenic quality, and this Update proposes no change to these regulations. The General Plan and Municipal Code also require view protection for new development (Municipal Code Section 17.18.090) and require any exterior light and glare to be shielded or recessed to prevent spill beyond the property line (Municipal Code Section 17.18.050). No impact is expected.

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Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
-- In determining whether impacts to agricultural
resources are significant environmental effects, lead
agencies may refer to the California Agricultural Land
Evaluation and Site Assessment Model (1997)
prepared by the California Dept. of Conservation as an
optional model to use in assessing impacts on
agriculture and farmland. Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) Convert Prime Farmland, Unique Farmland, or
Farmland of Statewide Importance (Farmland), as
shown on the maps prepared pursuant to the Farmland
Mapping and Monitoring Program of the California
Resources Agency, to non-agricultural use?

b) Conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use, or a Williamson Act contract?
c) Conflict with existing zoning for, or cause
rezoning of, forestland (as defined in Public
Resources Code Section 12220(g)),timberland (as
defined by Public Resources Code Section 4526), or
timberland zoned Timberland Production (as defined
by Government Code Section 51104(g))?

d) Result in the loss of forest land to non-forest use? e) Involve other changes in the existing environment
which, due to their location or nature, could result in conversion of Farmland to non-agricultural use or
forest land to non-forest use?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan 2017; Farmland Mapping & Monitoring Program, California Department of Conservation, 2016.

Background
The City of Rancho Mirage contains no agricultural or forest lands, and no lands are designated for agricultural or forestry purposes in the General Plan. Agricultural production occurs in the eastern Coachella Valley, more than 10 miles east of the City.

a-e) No Impact. The City of Rancho Mirage contains no agricultural or forest lands nor any lands covered by a Williamson Act contract, and no lands are designated for agricultural or forestry purposes in the General Plan. The Housing Element will not result in the construction of additional housing, as it is a policy document only. This Update to the Housing and Safety Elements of the General Plan will not result in any direct or indirect impact on any agricultural or forest land, nor would it result in the conversion of such land to non-agricultural or non-forest uses. Adoption of the Housing Element update will have no impact to agricultural and forestry resources.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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3.AIR QUALITY – Where available, the
significance criteria established by the applicable
air quality management district or air pollution
control district may be relied upon to make the
following determinations. Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of the
applicable air quality plan?
b) Result in a cumulatively considerable net
increase of any criteria pollutant for which the
project region is non-attainment under an
applicable federal or state ambient air quality
standard?
c) Expose sensitive receptors to substantial
pollutant concentrations?
d) Result in other emissions (such as those leading
to odors) adversely affecting a substantial number
of people?
Sources: SCAQMD AQMP, 2016; Coachella Valley PM10 SIP, 2003; Rancho Mirage Housing Element Update; South Coast Air Quality Management District CEQA Handbook, 1993; Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, California Department of Finance, January 1, 2021; 2020 RTP/SCS, Demographics and Growth Forecast Technical Report, Southern California Association of Governments, adopted September 3, 2020.

Background
The City of Rancho Mirage is located in the Salton Sea Air Basin (SSAB), which is governed by the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD). All development in the SSAB is subject to the 2016 SCAQMD Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP) and 2003 PM10 Coachella Valley State Implementation Plan (SIP). The SSAB is currently a non-attainment area for PM10 and ozone. The Coachella Valley is designated as a serious non- attainment area for PM10 and is subject to the 2003 SIP and local dust control regulations and guidelines.

The SCAQMD works directly with the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), county transportation commissions, and local governments, and cooperates actively with all state and federal government agencies. At the time the 2016 AQMP was developed, its land use and transportation controls were based on the Growth Management chapter of the 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (2016 RTP/SCS) adopted by SCAG to comply with metropolitan planning organization (MPO) requirements under the Sustainable Communities and Climate Protection Act. Projects that are consistent with the projections of population forecasts are considered consistent with the AQMP.

In 2020, SCAG adopted the 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy (2020 RTP/SCS) that will form the basis land use and transportation controls of the forthcoming 2022 AQMP. However, the 2016 RTP/SCS is consistent with the current 2016 AQMP and thus the appropriate document to reference for air quality analysis at this time.
a-d) No Impact. The Housing and Safety Element Updates will have no direct impact on air quality. The Update is a policy document and will not generate any construction or development. To meet the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) of 1,746 units in the next planning period by 2029, the Housing Element contains programs to increase allowable density for several sites identified for future housing. 9-151

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In 2021, the City’s population was 18,799, with an average 2.0 persons per household. SCAG projects the City’s population will grow to 25,000 by 2040. The addition of 1,746 units would increase the population by 3,492 to a total of 22,291, which is under the 2040 forecast. Therefore, the Housing Element is consistent with the 2016 RTP/SCS and thus consistent with the growth assumptions in the 2016 AQMP. The Update will not conflict with or obstruct implementation of the AQMP.

When individual properties are proposed for housing development, the City will undertake CEQA review, and assess potential impacts for each project on air quality, including emissions of criteria pollutants, pollutant concentrations near sensitive receptors, and emissions of odors. All future projects will be required to adhere to SCAQMD rules and regulations and City requirements for construction related activities to ensure compliance with the 2016 AQMP and 2003 SIP. Typical measures include, but are not limited to, the implementation of fugitive dust control measures (SCAQMD Rule 403.1, Municipal Code Chapter 7.01 and Section 15.64.630) and the use of low VOC content coatings (SCAQMD Rule 1113).

The City’s General Plan Air Quality Element Program AQ 1.6D requires air quality studies for projects that include sensitive receptors and are proposed within 500 feet of I-10. The Housing Element Update will facilitate development and renovation of residential units, which typically do not emit odors that would adversely affect a substantial number of people. Mitigation measures will be implemented, where necessary, in accordance with SCAQMD rules and City requirements to reduce potential impacts to less than significant levels.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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4. BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES -- Would the project: Potentially Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) 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?

b) Have a substantial adverse effect on any riparian
habitat or other sensitive natural community identified in local or regional plans, policies, and regulations or by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife or US Fish
and Wildlife Service?

c) 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?

d) Interfere substantially with the movement of any native resident or migratory fish or wildlife species or with
established native resident or migratory wildlife corridors, or impede the use of native wildlife nursery sites?

e) Conflict with any local policies or ordinances
protecting biological resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?

f) Conflict with the provisions of an adopted Habitat
Conservation Plan, Natural Community Conservation
Plan, or other approved local, regional, or state habitat conservation plan?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) and EIR/EIS, 2007.

Background
The City participates in the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP). There are currently undeveloped lands in the City that may harbor bird species protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) and/or other species not covered or addressed by the Coachella Valley MSHCP. The Housing Element is a regulatory document that, in and of itself, will not impact biological resources.

a-f) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Updates will have no impact on biological resources. This Update does not expand new housing sites beyond what is currently allowed under the General Plan.

The southern portion of the City is within the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area under the CVMSHCP. These lands are zoned as Mountain Reserve and would not allow development. While there is minimal overlap of the Conservation Area and lands zoned for residential development, any potential impact will be addressed in site-specific design following the CVMSHCP Adjacency Guidelines and project-level environmental review. There are no wetlands or riparian habitats on lands in the City’s affordable housing inventory, nor on lands designated for housing in general. The City will require, when appropriate, the preparation of biological resource studies for individual housing projects as they are proposed in the future, and will implement necessary mitigation measures to protect species not covered or addressed by the CVMSHCP and bird species protected under the 9-153

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Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA). The project-level study will also review potential impacts regarding wildlife corridors and nursery sites and recommend necessary mitigation measures. The City does not have a tree preservation or similar ordinance that protects trees in general or particular biological resource. The General Plan has multiple policies and programs that encourage preservation and use of native desert landscaping. With implementation of the CVMSHCP and other standard requirements, no new impact would occur as a result of this Update on biological resources.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

5. CULTURAL RESOURCES -- Would the
project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of a historical resource pursuant to §
15064.5?

b) Cause a substantial adverse change in the
significance of an archaeological resource pursuant
to § 15064.5?

c) Disturb any human remains, including those
interred outside of dedicated cemeteries?
Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; City of Rancho Mirage Historic Resources Survey, Leslie Heumann and Associates, February 3, 2003.

Background
The City of Rancho Mirage has undergone extensive surveys of potential historic resources. The City’s 2003 Historic Resources Survey identified over 100 properties that are considered to be local architectural and historic resources; none of those are listed in the California Register of Historical Resources, but some are eligible for listing in the National Register of Historic Places. None of these are planned for alteration or demolition under the Housing and Safety Elements Update.

The entire City is located in the tribal “Traditional Use Area” as identified by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI). Per the General Plan EIR, a qualified archaeological monitor is required for all development on Indian lands. The County of Riverside General Plan identifies the majority of the City and SOI as an area likely to contain cultural resources.

a-c) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing Element Update will have no impact on cultural resources. There are no historic structures on lands identified in the affordable housing inventory. As individual projects are proposed in the future, the City will consult with ACBCI and other interested tribes on potential cultural resources pursuant to AB 52 and/or SB 18 and require the preparation of a cultural resource study if the proposed project is within a culturally sensitive area. The consultation process is detailed in Section 18, Tribal Cultural Resources. Should housing development be proposed on sites with historic and/or archaeological resources in the future, any potential impact will be addressed in the project-specific cultural resource study and environmental review in compliance with standard requirements and General Plan policies.

There are no known burial sites or cemeteries on lands designated for housing. The City will require future projects to abide by California law, should human remains be identified on a site being prepared for housing development. 9-154

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California Public Resources Code Section 5097.98 requires that if remains are uncovered, all work in the vicinity of the site should be stopped and that there will be no deposition of the remains unless proper procedures are followed as required by the law.

Overall, no impact is expected.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

6. ENERGY -- Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) Result in potentially significant environmental
impact due to wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary
consumption of energy resources, during project
construction or operation?

b) Conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for
renewable energy or energy efficiency?

Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan 2017.

Background
Primary energy sources include fossil fuels (oil, coal, and natural gas), nuclear, and renewable sources such as wind, solar, geothermal, and hydropower. The City is within the service boundaries of Southern California Edison (SCE) for electricity and the Southern California Gas Company (SoCalGas) for natural gas. The City established the Rancho Mirage Energy Authority (RMEA), a local renewable electric service provider with discounts and solar rebates for residents to take advantage of electricity generated by renewable sources.

The City of Rancho Mirage completed the 2013 Sustainability Action Plan: Leadership in Energy Efficiency and Energy Action Plan. The plans establish energy-efficiency reduction policies and implementation measures for development projects that are generally more stringent than building codes.

a-b) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Updates will have no impact on energy resources and energy efficiency. Construction and renovation of housing are required to conform to the California Building Code, including the California Energy Code and California Green Building Standards Code (CALGreen), which serves to ensure the economical and wise use of energy resources during construction and operational phases. The City’s energy providers, SCE and SoCalGas, have both committed to increasing efficiency and renewable energy generation and enforce relevant state energy standards. The Housing Element identifies energy conservation opportunities for City residents and future housing development, including electricity from different mix levels of renewable sources through the RMEA.

Future housing developments would generate traffic and require the consumption of petroleum-based fuels related to vehicular travel. Although future housing projects have the potential to result in a direct increase in City VMTs, the Update will not interfere with evolving fuel efficiency standards and will not result in wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of transportation energy resources.

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Implementation of the California Building Code and voluntary energy efficiency and renewable energy programs will ensure that no wasteful, inefficient, or unnecessary consumption of energy resources will occur. The Update promotes energy efficiency and renewable energy programs for future housing development and renovation, and will not conflict with or obstruct a state or local plan for energy efficiency or renewable energy.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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7. GEOLOGY AND SOILS -- Would the project:Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a)Directly or indirectly cause potential substantial
adverse effects, including the risk of loss, injury, or death involving:
i) 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.
ii) Strong seismic ground shaking?
iii) Seismic-related ground failure, including
liquefaction?
iv) Landslides?
b) Result in substantial soil erosion or the loss of
topsoil?
c) 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) 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?
e) 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)Directly or indirectly destroy a unique
paleontological resource or site or unique geologic
feature?
Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan, Exhibits 21-25 and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

Background
The City is in the western portion of the Coachella Valley, which is the northwestern extension of the Salton Trough, a tectonic depression formed by regional faulting. The Salton Trough is roughly 130 miles long and 70 miles wide and extends from the San Gorgonio Pass to the Gulf of Mexico. Regional soils range from rocky outcrops within the mountains bordering the valley, to coarse gravels of mountain canyons and recently laid fine - and medium- grained alluvial (stream-deposited) and aeolian (wind-deposited) sediments on the central valley floor. Sediments from the surrounding mountains are carried into and across the valley through seasonal streams. The Whitewater River, which generally flows northwest to southeast, is the master drainage for the valley. Episodic flooding of major regional drainages results in the deposition of sand and gravel on the valley floor. 9-157

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The City lies in an area with numerous active faults, the two closest being the North and South Branches of the San Andreas Fault system north of the City. These faults are capable of generating a moment magnitude 7.4 earthquake. a-f) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Update will have no impact on geology. There are no Alquist-Priolo earthquake fault zones in the City. The entire City will, however, be subject to significant ground shaking in the event of an earthquake. To mitigate for this potential impact, the City enforces stringent building requirements including the most recent California Building Code regarding seismic safety specifications.

Housing is not proposed in areas subject to landslides and rockfall hazard. The City will impose dust control/PM10 management and NPDES standards on all development in the future, which will mitigate for potential soil erosion from wind or flooding hazards.

Subsidence is normally considered a regional issue, and is being addressed by local water agencies through groundwater recharge and water conservation to reduce extraction. The majority of the City has moderate susceptibility to liquefaction. Most areas in the City are underlain by typically loose windblown sands and other recently deposited sediments that are potentially subject to seismically induced settlement. Development proposed on the valley floor or on wind or stream deposited sediment will be required to conduct site-specific subsurface geotechnical investigations that address potential seismic related hazards. Project-specific mitigation measures such as proper excavation, compaction, and foundation design will be implemented as needed.

The City contains soils with a minor amount of clay, which has the potential to be expansive. Soil collapse typically occurs in recently deposited sediments laid down by wind or water. As individual projects are proposed, site-specific soils studies will be required to identify all soil conditions on a particular site, and mitigation measures will be implemented where necessary.

The Housing Element identifies residential communities currently not served by sewers in the City, which are limited to the Thunder Road area. The area currently uses septic systems. New development of any kind in the City is required to connect to sanitary sewer services provided by the CVWD if the site is being subdivided, or if it is within 250 feet of existing sewer lines. The Thunder Road area will be connected to the sewer system and have its septic system decommissioned for new development. No impacts associated with septic tanks or alternate wastewater disposal systems would occur.

The majority of the City are located in an area with low sensitivity for paleontological resources. The areas within and along the Whitewater River Channel are described as having an unknown sensitivity for paleontological resources; however, much of the area adjacent to the channel within the City is developed as private open space.

Any potential impact as a result of future housing development will be addressed in site-specific environmental review and technical studies, where necessary.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.
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8. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS -- Would
the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Generate greenhouse gas emissions, either
directly or indirectly, that may have a significant
impact on the environment?

b) Conflict with an applicable plan, policy or
regulation adopted for the purpose of reducing the
emissions of greenhouse gases?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan, 2017; SCAQMD AQMP, 2016; California Air Resource Board, website, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/ccms/ccms.htm; Draft Guidance Document – Interim CEQA Greenhouse Gas (GHG) Significance Thresholds, South Coast Air Quality Management District, October 2008; Rancho Mirage Sustainability Plan, March 2013.

Background
Greenhouse gases (GHG), including carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), nitrous oxide (N2O), and fluorinated gases (hydrofluorocarbons, perfluorocarbons and sulfur hexafluoride), are released into the atmosphere through natural processes and human activities. These gases are called “greenhouse gases” due to their common ability of trapping heat, and they are believed to be responsible for the global average increase in surface temperatures of 0.7-

1.5°F that were observed during the 20th century. The quantity of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere has increased significantly over a relatively short period. Carbon dioxide is the primary greenhouse gas that has raised the most concern of atmospheric scientists due to current and projected emission levels.

State law mandates that all cities decrease their GHG emissions to 1990 levels by the year 2020. Executive Order B-30-15 set an interim target goal of reducing GHG emissions to 40% below 1990 levels by 2030 to keep California on its trajectory toward meeting or exceeding the long-term goal of reducing GHG emissions to 80% below 1990 levels by 2050, as set forth in Executive Order S-3-05.

The City of Rancho Mirage completed its first Greenhouse Gas Inventory in 2012. The Energy Action Plan and Sustainability Plan were subsequently completed in 2013, which guides city policies and planning to achieve energy efficiency, cut municipal and community energy costs and comply with state mandates on emission reduction.

GHG Thresholds
On December 5, 2008, the SCAQMD formally adopted a greenhouse gas significance threshold of 10,000 MTCO2e/yr that only applies to industrial uses’ stationary sources where SCAQMD is the lead agency (SCAQMD Resolution No. 08-35). This threshold was adopted based upon an October 2008 staff report and draft interim guidance document that also recommended a threshold for all projects using a tiered approach. It was recommended by SCAQMD staff that a project’s greenhouse gas emissions would be considered significant if it could not comply with at least one of the following “tiered” tests:

• Tier 1: Is there an applicable exemption?
• Tier 2: Is the project compliant with a greenhouse gas reduction plan that is, at a minimum, consistent with the goals of AB 32?
• Tier 3: Is the project below an absolute threshold (10,000 MTCO2e/year for industrial projects; 3,000 MTCO2e/year for residential and commercial projects)?
• Tier 4: Is the project below a (yet to be set) performance threshold? • Tier 5: Would the project achieve a screening level with off-site mitigation?

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a-b) No Impact. The Housing and Safety Element Updates will have no impact on greenhouse gas emissions. The Update is a policy document and will not generate any construction or development. The Housing Element identifies sites for future housing development, which are near transit, shopping and employment including the Monterey Village site and sites in the Highway 111 corridor. While the Housing Element proposes density increases in some of these sites, the proximity to services and amenities would help offset vehicle miles traveled and greenhouse gas emissions. The Housing Element also identifies local conservation efforts and opportunities that will help reduce GHG emissions.

The City of Rancho Mirage adopted a Sustainability Plan (2013) and Energy Action Plan that establish energy- efficiency reduction policies and implementation measures for development projects that are generally more stringent than building codes. The City has determined that the measures will effectively reduce city-wide GHG emissions at the project level. When individual properties are proposed for housing development, the City will undertake CEQA review, and assess potential impacts for each project on greenhouse gas emissions with regards to GHG thresholds set by SCAQMD.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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9. HAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS --
Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Create a significant hazard to the public or the
environment through the routine transport, use, or
disposal of hazardous materials?

b) 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) Emit hazardous emissions or handle hazardous or
acutely hazardous materials, substances, or waste
within one-quarter mile of an existing or proposed
school?

d) 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) 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) Impair implementation of or physically interfere with an adopted emergency response plan or emergency
evacuation plan?

g) Expose people or structures, either directly or
indirectly, to a significant risk of loss, injury or death involving wildland fires?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; California Department of Toxic Substances Control “EnviroStor” Database, accessed March 2021.

Background
A hazardous material is any substance that, because of its quantity, concentration, or physical or chemical properties, may pose a hazard to human health and the environment. Under Title 22 of the California Code of Regulations (CCR), the term “hazardous substance” refers to both hazardous materials and hazardous wastes. Both are classified according to four properties: 1) ignitability, 2) corrosivity, 3) reactivity, and 4) toxicity.

A hazardous material is defined as a substance or combination of substances which may either (1) cause, or significantly contribute to an increase in mortality or an increase in serious irreversible or incapacitating reversible illness; or (2) pose a substantial present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of, or otherwise managed.

a-g) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Update will not impact hazards or hazardous materials. Future housing development will be required to assess potential impacts as part of the CEQA process, but these potential impacts are likely to be negligible, since housing development does not generate significant use, storage or transport of hazardous materials. The Safety Element Update refers to the updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan adopted by the City in 2018 and Riverside County Multi-Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation 9-161

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Plan approved by FEMA and adopted in 2018, which provide current guidance on hazard mitigation and emergency response in and around the City.

A number of schools occur in the City, including adjacent to or near lands designated for housing. However, as previously stated, housing development generates minimal hazardous materials which are governed by local and regional regulations.

The sites proposed for affordable housing or housing in general do not occur on sites identified by the state as now having or previously having hazardous materials issues.

The closest airport to the City is the Palms Springs International Airport, located at least 2.63 miles to the northwest.

Part of the northwestern corner of the City (north of Gerald Ford Drive and west of Los Alamos Road) is located in Zone E of the Palm Springs International Airport Land Use Plan. Flights approaching and departing the Palm Springs International Airport may fly over the City; however, these flights would be more than three miles from the runways and at a high altitude. No future housing is proposed adjacent to the airport. Existing requirements of the Airport Land Use Plan and General Plan Safety Element would minimize potential impacts to residential development by ensuring land use compatibility and locating residential uses at a safe distance from the airport.

The two main evacuation routes in the City include I-10 and Highway 111, with primary and minor arterial streets serving as secondary routes. Housing projects will occur on the City’s existing street system, which is already developed. For each individual project, a Construction Traffic Control Plan may be required in coordination with the City’s Public Works Department to ensure traffic safety and preservation of emergency/secondary access during all development activities. The site plans and emergency access for each individual project will be subject to approval by the Fire and Police Departments to ensure adequate emergency access. No impact to emergency access or evacuation routes is anticipated.

The Safety Element Update includes the up-to-date fire hazard mapping by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire). The Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) within and near the City are of limited size, and the historical record indicates that the wildland fire hazard in Rancho Mirage is relatively low because most of the rugged terrain is so steep, rocky, and dry that few plants thrive in the area and the amount of fuel available for wildland fires is very limited. Lands designated for housing are located out of any State Responsible Area or VHFHSZ mapped by CalFire. Future housing projects will be required to adhere to applicable fire codes and would be subject to Fire Department review and inspection. The updates to the Safety Element will allow the City to better plan for wildfire, as they provide more up-to-date information for planning purposes. No impact regarding hazard from wildfires is expected.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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10. HYDROLOGY AND WATER QUALITY --
Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Violate any water quality standards or waste
discharge requirements or otherwise substantially
degrade surface or groundwater quality?

b) Substantially decrease groundwater supplies or
interfere substantially with groundwater recharge such
that the project may impede sustainable groundwater
management of the basin?

c) 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:
i) Result in substantial erosion or siltation on- or
off-site?

ii) Substantially increase the rate or amount of
surface runoff in a manner which would result in
flooding on- or offsite?

iii) 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?

iv) Impede or redirect flood flows?
d) In flood hazard, tsunami, or seiche zones, risk
release of pollutants due to project inundation?
e) Conflict with or obstruct implementation of a water
quality control plan or sustainable groundwater
management plan?

Source: City of Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

Background
The Coachella Valley climate is characterized as “subtropical desert.” Annual rainfall is very low, ranging from 2 to 4 inches per year on the valley floor and averaging 5 to 6 inches in the foothills. In some years, no measurable rainfall has been reported on portions of the valley floor. Most rainfall occurs during the cooler months of November through March, but occasional high-intensity thunderstorms and tropical storms occur in late summer and early fall.

Although the ground may be generally dry at the beginning of a storm, sufficient amounts and intensities of rainfall can saturate the surface, substantially reducing percolation and increasing runoff. Summer storms pose a greater threat of localized flooding than winter storms because of their high intensity and short duration. Monsoons and warm winter storms with snowmelt can generate significant runoff over a much larger area.

Regional water sources include primarily groundwater supplemented with imported water and, to a lesser extent, recycled water. The Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) provides domestic water service to the City.

CVWD’s most recent Urban Water Management Plan (UWMP) indicates that sufficient water supplies are available to serve anticipated future growth.

The City implements standard requirements for the retention of storm flows and participates in the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) to protect surface waters from pollution. As the water and 9-163

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wastewater services provider, Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) implements the requirements of the Regional Water Quality Control Board pertaining to domestic water quality and wastewater discharge.

a-e) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Update will have no impact on water resources.

The Update is a policy document and does not involve the construction of any new housing units. The City and CVWD implement all water quality standards and waste discharge requirements to prevent contamination of water sources during construction and operation. Currently, the Thunder Road area does not have sewer service and uses septic tanks, which are regulated by the Regional Water Quality Control Board (RWQCB) to ensure they do not pollute the groundwater basin. General Plan Policy PS&F 3.2 requires all subdivisions to be connected to sewer lines. Future housing developments will be reviewed under CEQA to assure that they meet the standard requirements.

CVWD is a State Water Project contractor for the Whitewater River (Indio) Subbasin and complies with pumping rights, as required under the Sustainable Groundwater Management Act (SGMA). According to CVWD’s 2015 UWMP, available water supplies are sufficient to meet the anticipated demand for 2020 through 2040 during normal, single dry, and multiple dry water years. The City also mandates water conservation in collaboration with CVWD throughout the community, including the use of drought-tolerant landscaping and efficient irrigation systems (Municipal Code Section 17.24.070). Therefore, the proposed Housing and Safety Elements Update is not expected to impact local groundwater management in terms of groundwater supplies and recharge.

The City requires that new development located northerly of the Whitewater River that are larger than one gross acre retain 100-year storm water flows on site. Such project shall provide stormwater runoff and volume calculation, retention location and method of storage to the satisfaction of the city engineer (Municipal Code Section 13.05.010).

All future housing projects will be required to comply with City requirements, including NPDES standards, which require the preparation of water quality management plans, pollution prevention plans and hydrology studies. These requirements will include the implementation of best management practices to ensure compliance with local and federal standards.

In general, housing sites in the City are not located in the 100-year special flood hazard areas. Areas of potential flooding are generally associated with the Whitewater River and its tributaries, mountain canyons, and their alluvial fans; however, at the bottom of Magnesia Spring Canyon, the 100-year flood limits extend to several residential streets in the area. Site I in the vacant land inventory is located in this area. The General Plan calls for the evaluation of all development proposals located in areas that are subject to flooding and the Safety Element contains policies and programs to minimize potential impacts.

The City is located inland, well outside of any tsunami zones. While mountains and streams surrounding the City could pose potential mudflow and seiche hazards, the Housing Element would not involve land use changes or result in the intensification of land uses near the base of the mountains or above ground water reservoirs. The standard requirements on flood and drainage control would minimize the risk of release of pollutants in the unlikely event of project inundation.

Mitigation: None required.

Monitoring: None required.

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11. LAND USE AND PLANNING - Would
the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) Physically divide an established community?
b) 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?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan 2017; Rancho Mirage Municipal Code; Rancho Mirage Highway 111 Specific Plan Intial Study, May 2020.

Background
The City and the Coachella Valley are located at the westernmost limits of the Sonoran Desert, also known as the Colorado Desert. The area’s natural assets, including mountain views, varied wildlife and sunny weather, and a dependable water supply, have supported agriculture and a tourism and resort industry. The City continues to prioritize low-density residential and high-quality commercial land uses and encourage infill development rather than development in outlying areas.

a) No Impact. The lands identified in the Housing Element Update are vacant, and based on the location of each site in the inventory, their development will not physically divide an established community. The Safety Element Update included current fire hazard mapping and local and regional hazard mitigation plans and will have no impact on dividing an established community.

b) Less Than Significant Impact. The adoption of the Housing Element Update will have no significant impact on land use. This Update added new sites to the vacant land inventory identified for affordable housing, including lands in the Highway 111 Specific Plan, and the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park site. This Update cites residential designations in the Highway 111 Specific Plan and would not change or conflict with it. This Housing Element Update proposes several new policies regarding residential land use planning, as discussed below.

Under Program H9.A in this Housing Element Update, the City will apply the High Density Residential (R-H) zoning to the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park site, which is currently zoned as Mobile Home Park (MHP).

Both R-H and MHP designations allow up to 9 dwelling units per acre, and impact of future development on the site will be addressed in the project-level environmental review.

Under Programs H1.D and H9.A, the City will create an affordable housing zoning overlay, which will allow a base density of up to 28 du/ac, not including density bonus provisions, and apply this overlay to the Highway 111 Specific Plan sites, the Rancho Palms and Monterey sites. For the Rancho Palms site (12.34 acres), as discussed above, potential impacts will be addressed at project-level CEQA review. Given the size (52.48 acres) of the Monterey Village site, it will likely require a master plan or specific plan and potential impacts will be addressed at that level of CEQA review for the proposed densities. Overall, however, the increased density is consistent with the General Plan Policy COS 5.2, which calls for an efficient circulation system and land pattern because the identified sites are located near amenities, services and employment, which creates synergy among different land uses and reduce vehicle miles traveled. Most of the density increase sites are under or will require a Specific Plan, which is consistent with General Plan Policies LU 2.1 through 2.3 which require specific plans to achieve high-quality development beyond those expected in conventional development and meet the long-term goals of the General Plan.

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The City’s Zoning Ordinance includes provisions for all densities of housing, and these development standards will be imposed as projects are proposed. As required by state law, the City will need to update the density bonus provisions in the Zoning Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter 17.22) to provide for a density bonus of up to 50% for affordable housing. Sites in the affordable housing inventory may be eligible for this incentive.

Overall, no significant impacts are expected.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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12. MINERAL RESOURCES -- Would the
project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) 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) 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?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; Update of Mineral Land Classification Map for Portland Cement Concrete-Grade Aggregate in the Palm Springs Production-Consumption Region, Riverside County, California (Special Report 198), California Geological Survey, 2007.

Background
In the Coachella Valley, mineral resources are largely limited to aggregates, such as sand, gravel, and crushed stone.

These are major components of concrete, plaster, stucco, road base and fill, which are essential to the construction industry. Important regional deposits of these materials are being actively developed. Other mineral deposits in the region are generally limited to rocky outcroppings within the Little San Bernardino and Santa Rosa Mountains and have not been mined. There are currently no mines or extraction sites in Rancho Mirage.

a-b) No Impact. The adoption and implementation of the Housing and Safety Elements Update will have no impact on mineral resources. No active mining or extraction sites occur in the City, nor are any proposed. None of the sites identified for housing in the Update occur on lands designated for mineral resource extraction.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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13. NOISE -- Would the project result in:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact

a) 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) 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?

Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

Background
The noise environment in the City and Coachella Valley is typical of a suburban community, with primary noise sources including traffic on Interstate-10, Highway 111 and major arterials, mechanical equipment such as heating/ventilation/air conditioning (HVAC) units, commercial loading and unloading operations, and parking lot activity.

a-c) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Elements Update will have no impact on noise. The future development of housing will be required to study noise issues as part of the CEQA and building permit processes.

All sites identified for future housing in the inventory are located in urban areas and adjacent to existing development. Typical noise sources including transportation-related such as roadways and railroad, and stationary sources such as typical commercial and residential activities and landscaping equipment. The City will require the preparation of site-specific noise studies to assess impacts from roadway and railroad noise, as appropriate. Should noise levels at future housing sites require mitigation, there are a variety of means such as noise attenuation walls, setback from roadways, and landscape buffers.

The construction of housing projects in the future may create temporary noise sources. The City’s Municipal Code imposes noise standards and limits construction hours to the less sensitive day time hours (Municipal Code Section

15.04.030). Individual projects will be reviewed under CEQA to determine whether their construction impacts will impact neighboring development.

The Palm Springs International Airport is located at least 2.63 miles from Rancho Mirage and none of the noise contours from 60 CNEL up for the airport extend into the City of Rancho Mirage.

Mitigation: None required
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Monitoring: None required

14. POPULATION AND HOUSING –
Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) 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) Displace substantial numbers of existing people
or housing, necessitating the construction of
replacement housing elsewhere?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, California Department of Finance, January 1, 2021; 2020 RTP/SCS, Demographics and Growth Forecast Technical Report, Southern California Association of Governments, adopted September 3, 2020.

Background
The Rancho Mirage population increased 30% between 2000 and 2010, from 13,249 to 17,218. The latest (2021) population estimate is 18,799, a much slower rate of growth of 9% over the last decade. SCAG projects the City’s population will grow to 25,200 by 2045. In 2021, there were an estimated 14,945 housing units in Rancho Mirage.

Local housing products include a mix of single- and multi-family units, and a smaller number of mobile homes.

a-b) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Elements Update will have no impact on population or housing. The Element focuses on the facilitation of housing development to meet existing and projected housing needs within the City, but creates no immediate need for housing. The provisions of the Element will be implemented as growth and demand for housing occur, but will not induce any such growth. The Housing Element will facilitate the development of housing for all segments of the City’s future population.

The Housing Element identifies areas zoned for residential development that need infrastructure improvements such as sewers, but does not propose extension of roads or other infrastructure in any area that may induce unplanned population growth.

The lands identified in the affordable housing inventory are vacant, and their development will not displace people or structures. The Housing Element provides a program on relocation assistance should such need occur.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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15. PUBLIC SERVICES –
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
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 could cause
significant environmental impacts, 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?
Other public facilities?
Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

Background
Fire protection, first response, emergency medical services, and natural disaster preparedness services in the City are provided by the Riverside County Fire Department (RCFD). The City is a member of the Cove Communities Services Commission, which includes the cities of Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and Indian Wells. Police protection is provided on a service contract basis by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department that operates out of the Palm Desert Station. Two school districts, Desert Sands Unified School District (DSUSD) and Palm Springs Unified School District (PSUSD), serve the City. One private school, the Palm Valley School, also provides K-12 education in the City.

a) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element will have no impact on public services. Housing projects proposed in the future will be assessed under CEQA, to determine whether they will impact public services.

Since housing development sites are located in the urban areas of the City, they are least likely to cause significant impacts on public services. Lands designated for housing are located out of any State Responsible Areas or Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones (VHFHSZ) mapped by the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire). The Safety Element Update identified only one single family residence (70000 Thunderbird Mesa Drive) in the City that partially falls in a VHFHSZ and has only one evacuation route. Future housing development will be required to meet City roadway standards including minimum widths as detailed in the General Plan Circulation Element to ensure adequate emergency access. Projects in the future will be required to pay development impact fees, which are designed to support the provision of public services and facilities.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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16. RECREATION –

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
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) Does the project include recreational facilities or
require the construction or expansion of
recreational facilities, which might have an adverse
physical effect on the environment?

Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

Background
The City offers a wide variety of recreational opportunities, including golf courses, bikeways, and parkland. In addition, the City is near thousands of acres of National Park and National Monument lands, U.S. Forest Service wilderness lands, and state, regional and tribal parks that contain miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails.

a-b) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Elements update will have no impact on recreation.

Housing projects in the future will be assessed in-lieu parkland fees and development impact fees in the building permit process, which are designed to cover the additional costs associated with providing parks and recreational services. These issues will be reviewed under CEQA as individual projects are proposed.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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17. TRANSPORTATION – Would the project: Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Conflict with a program, 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) Substantially increase hazards due to a geometric
design feature (e.g., sharp curves or dangerous
intersections) or incompatible uses (e.g., farm
equipment)?

d) Result in inadequate emergency access?
Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; CVAG Active Transportation Plan, Michael Baker International, 2016.

Background
Regional connectivity in the Coachella Valley is provided by Interstate 10 (I-10), Highway 111, and State Routes 62 and 74. I-10 extends through the valley in a northwest-southeasterly trending direction and connects the region to western Riverside County and the Los Angeles metropolitan area to the west, and desert communities and Arizona to the east. Highway 111 is south of and roughly parallel to I-10. Highway 111 accommodates local and regional traffic through one of the City’s principal commercial corridors and connects to other Coachella Valley communities, from Palm Springs on the west to the Salton Sea and Imperial County on the east.

Under SB 743, CEQA Guidelines Section 15064.3 was amended December 2018, stating that vehicle miles traveled (VMT) is the most appropriate measure of transportation impacts. A lead agency may use models or other methods to analyze a project’s VMT quantitatively or qualitatively. The City has adopted a Transportation Analysis Policy in 2020 for the analysis required by SB 743.

a-d) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing Element Update will have no impact on transportation. The development of future housing projects in the City will be required to address project-specific traffic impacts in the CEQA review process. The City will require the preparation of traffic impact studies, and mitigation of any impacts identified in these studies. Further, the proposed projects will be required to comply with City standards regarding roadway improvements, parking, and emergency access, either through CEQA or through conditions of approval.

The Housing Element identifies sites for future housing development, which are near transit, shopping and employment including the Monterey Village site and sites in the Highway 111 corridor. While the Housing Element proposes density increases in some of these sites, the proximity to services and amenities would help offset vehicle miles traveled by future residents. Future development will be required to assess their VMT impacts according to the City’s Transportation Analysis Policy and provide mitigation as necessary.

The Safety Element Update identified only one development (70000 Thunderbird Mesa Drive) in the City that is partially located in a Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zone, and has only one evacuation route via Thunderbird Mesa Drive downhill to Highway 111. Future housing development will be required to meet City roadway standards including minimum widths as detailed in the General Plan Circulation Element to ensure adequate emergency access.

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The sites identified for future housing occur in the City’s established street system, and will not interfere with the system. Most of the identified sites occur on or near transit routes, and therefore will not impact alternative transportation systems.

Mitigation: None required
Monitoring: None required
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18. TRIBAL CULTURAL RESOURCES –
Would the project cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a tribal cultural
resource, defined in Public Resources Code §
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:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
i) 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

ii) 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 Resources
Code § 5024.1. In applying the criteria set forth
in subdivision (c) of Public Resource Code §
5024.1, the lead agency shall consider the
significance of the resource to a California
Native American tribe.

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; City of Rancho Mirage Historic Resources Survey, Leslie Heumann and Associates, February 3, 2003.

Background
The Cahuilla Indians have inhabited the valley for centuries. They are a Takic-speaking people of hunters and gatherers generally divided into three groups based on geographic setting: the Pass Cahuilla of the San Gorgonio Pass – Palm Springs area; the Mountain Cahuilla of the San Jacinto and Santa Rosa Mountains and the Cahuilla Valley; and the Desert Cahuilla of the eastern Coachella Valley. Today, Native Americans of Pass or Desert Cahuilla heritage are mainly affiliated with the Indian tribes of the Coachella Valley, including the Cabazon, Augustine, Torres Martinez, Twentynine Palms, Agua Caliente, and Morongo.

i, ii) No Impact. The entire City of Rancho Mirage and Sphere of Influence (SOI) is located in the tribal “Traditional Use Area” as identified by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI). The County of Riverside General Plan identifies the majority of the City and SOI as an area likely to contain cultural resources. Per the General Plan EIR, a qualified archaeological monitor is required for all development on Indian lands.

The adoption of the Housing and Safety Elements Update will have no impact on tribal cultural resources. The City conducted AB 52 and SB 18 consultation and sent out written letters to 13 tribes. The City received two responses, and neither Tribe requested consultation. As individual projects are proposed in the future, the City will conduct government-to-government consultations with local tribes pursuant to AB 52 and SB 18 regarding potential tribal cultural resources that could occur on specific project sites.

There are no historic resources on lands identified in the affordable housing inventory. Should future housing development be proposed on sites with historic resources or potential tribal cultural resources, any potential impact will be addressed in the project-specific cultural resource study and CEQA process.

Overall, no impact is expected.

Mitigation: None required

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Monitoring: None required

19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS –
Would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) Require or result in the relocation or
construction of new or expanded water, wastewater
treatment or storm drainage, electric power, natural
gas, or telecommunications facilities, the
construction or relocation of which could cause
significant environmental effects?

b) Have sufficient water supplies available to serve
the project and reasonably foreseeable future
development during normal, dry and multiple dry
years?

c) Result in a determination by the wastewater
treatment provider which serves or may serve the
project that it has adequate capacity to serve the
projects projected demand in addition to the
providers existing commitments?

d) 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) Comply with federal, state, and local
management and reduction statues and regulations
related to solid waste?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; 2015 Urban Water Management Plan (Final Report), CVWD, July 1, 2016; Sanitary Sewer Management Plan, CVWD, December 1, 2019.

Background
The City is served by the following utility providers:

Utility Service Provider(s)
Electricity Rancho Mirage Energy Authority,
South California Edison (SCE)
Natural gas Southern California Gas
Water Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Wastewater Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD)
Solid waste Burrtec
Telecommunications Spectrum, Frontier, Hughes Net

a-e) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Update will have no impact on utilities. The development of housing in the future will consider utilities as part of the CEQA and entitlement process. The provision of domestic water and sanitary sewer has been analyzed by the CVWD as part of their long-range planning, using the City’s General Plan land uses as a basis for planning. While the Housing Element Update has the potential to result in more dwelling units than under the General Plan Land Use Map, the increase in densities will only occur on the Monterey Village site (about 25 acres out of 52.48 acres designated for residential use), Highway 111 Specific 9-175

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Plan area, and former Rancho Palms MHP site (12.34 acres). As discussed above in Section 3 Air Quality, the City population was 18,799 in 2021, with an average 2.0 persons per household. The addition of 1,746 units from the City’s Regional Housing Needs Allocation would increase the population by 3,492 to a total of 22,291. SCAG projects that the City population will grow to 25,200 by 2045. Therefore, the City’s RHNA units buildout is consistent with SCAG forecast and will not result in unplanned growth. Sites identified for future housing development either have been developed and served by utilities, or have been planned for development under the General Plan and Highway 111 Specific Plan. The existing and future utility infrastructure and demand have been considered in these plans, and therefore the density increase will not result in a substantial increase in demand for utility services compared to current General Plan designations. The energy and telecommunication utility providers have plans in place which would be updated based on future demands in their jurisdictions to ensure adequate system capacity to meet the growing needs of the City. As discussed in Section 10, Hydrology and Water Quality, future development will be required to meet City requirements on stormwater retention and avoid adverse impacts on the public drainage system. Because CVWD has sufficient capacity, or can expand services to accommodate development and impacts will be assessed for individual projects on utility services, no significant impact is expected. The City contracts Burrtec for solid waste hauling services. Future residential customers will be assessed a per unit fee for solid waste service. The landfills in the region currently have sufficient capacity to accommodate future development. All future projects will be required to analyze demand and capacity for solid waste disposal as part of the CEQA process.

Overall, no impacts are anticipated.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required

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20. WILDFIRE – If located in or near state
responsibility areas or lands classified as very high
fire hazard severity zones, would the project:

Potentially
Significant
Impact

Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation

Less Than
Significant
Impact

No
Impact
a) Substantially impair an adopted emergency
response plan or emergency evacuation plan?

b) 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) 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) 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?

Sources: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017; California Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer, CalFire, last updated 1/13/2020.

Background
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CalFire) ranks fire hazards of wildland areas in the state using four main criteria: fuels, weather, assets at risk, and level of service. Although Very High Fire Hazard Severity Zones are mapped in the Santa Rosa Mountains near Rancho Mirage, the wildland fire hazard in the City and Coachella Valley is relatively low. There are no state responsibility areas in the City. The only VHFHSZ within the City limits are at the bottom of Bradley Canyon, which consists of primarily undeveloped mountain area and part of an existing private residential property.

a-d) No Impact. The adoption of the Housing Element will have no impact on wildfire. The Safety Element is also updated along with the Housing Element under state law, and reflects the up-to-date fire hazard mapping by CalFire and the updated Local Hazard Mitigation Plan adopted by the City in 2018 and Riverside County Multi- Jurisdictional Local Hazard Mitigation Plan approved by FEMA and adopted in 2018. The VHFHSZ within and near the City are of limited size, and the historical record indicates that the wildland fire hazard in Rancho Mirage is relatively low because most of the rugged terrain is so steep, rocky, and dry that few plants (fire fuel sources) thrive in the area. The undeveloped land in the VHFHSZ within the City is designated as Mountain Reserve and would not be developed in the future. No housing development will occur in any state responsibility areas or very high fire hazard severity zones. The updates to the Safety Element will allow the City to better plan for wildfire, as they provide more up-to-date information for planning purposes. The Update to Housing and Safety Elements will not impair emergency response plans and will not increase the risk of wildfire.

Mitigation: None required

Monitoring: None required
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21. MANDATORY FINDINGS OF

SIGNIFICANCE
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
Impact
a) Does the project have the potential to
substantially degrade the quality of the
environment, substantially reduce the habitat of a
fish or wildlife species, cause a fish or wildlife
population to drop below self-sustaining levels,
threaten to eliminate a plant or animal community,
substantially reduce the number or restrict the
range of a rare or endangered plant or animal or
eliminate important examples of the major periods
of California history or prehistory?

b) Does the project have impacts that are
individually limited, but cumulatively
considerable? ("Cumulatively considerable" means
that the incremental effects of a project are
considerable when viewed in connection with the
effects of past projects, the effects of other current
projects, and the effects of probable future
projects)?

c) Does the project have environmental effects,
which will cause substantial adverse effects on
human beings, either directly or indirectly?

Source: Rancho Mirage General Plan and Environmental Impact Report, 2017.

The adoption of the Housing and Safety Element Update will not impact the environment. As identified in this document, there will be no biological or cultural resources impacts, nor will adoption impact human beings. Per state law, relevant sections in the Safety Element including fire hazard and emergency preparedness are updated along with the Housing Element, and the Housing Element is consistent with the balance of the General Plan, and the development of housing will not impact long term environmental goals. Cumulative impacts, if any, have been addressed in the General Plan and its associated environmental documentation and will also be considered at individual project level as projects are proposed under the Housing Element policies.

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REFERENCES

City of Rancho Mirage General Plan, 2017

Rancho Mirage General Plan EIR, 2006 and Addendum EIR, 2017

City of Rancho Mirage Municipal Code, as amended

Officially Designated State Scenic Highways Map, Caltrans

California Department of Conservation; Farmland Mapping & Monitoring Program. 2016

SCAQMD Air Quality Management Plan (AQMP), 2016

Coachella Valley PM10 SIP, 2003

California Air Resource Board, website, http://www.arb.ca.gov/cc/ccms/ccms.htm

Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), 2007

City of Rancho Mirage Historic Resources Survey, 2003

California Department of Toxic Substances Control “EnviroStor” Database, accessed February 2021

Rancho Mirage Sustainability Plan, March 2013

Rancho Mirage Highway 111 Specific Plan Intial Study, May 2020.

Update of Mineral Land Classification Map for Portland Cement Concrete-Grade Aggregate in the Palm Springs Production-Consumption Region, Riverside County, California (Special Report 198), California Geological Survey, 2007

E-5 City/County Population and Housing Estimates, California Department of Finance, January 1, 2021; Southern California Association of Governments 2016-2040 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Communities Strategy, adopted April 2016; 2020 RTP/SCS, Demographics and Growth Forecast Technical Report, Southern California Association of Governments, adopted September 3, 2020

CVAG Active Transportation Plan, Michael Baker International, 2016

2015 Urban Water Management Plan, Final Report, CVWD, July 1, 2016

Sanitary Sewer Management Plan, CVWD, December 1, 2019

Solid Waste Information System, www2.calrecyle.ca.gov, CalRecycle, accessed December 2020

California Fire Hazard Severity Zone Viewer, CalFire, last updated 1/13/2020.

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ATTACHMENT 7

DRAFT HOUSING ELEMENT

(SEE ATTACHED)
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Housing Element

1 4 Housing

Introduction
The Rancho Mirage Housing Element is intended to provide both citizens and public officials with a comprehensive understanding of the housing needs in Rancho Mirage. It sets forth policies and programs that will enable the City to reach its defined housing goals and attempt to assure that every Rancho Mirage resident secures a safe and decent place to live in a satisfactory environment. The Housing Element promotes a coordination of housing policies and programs at local, state, and federal levels.

This element first reviews the applicable state law that governs its content. This is followed by an analysis of the effectiveness of the policies and programs implemented through the 2014-2021 Housing Element. Then a review of Rancho Mirage’s demographic information is presented, followed by an analysis of its housing needs. All constraints that might restrict or impede the development of housing are then analyzed. The document concludes with the goals, policies, and programs to be implemented in the 2021- 2029 planning period.

Background
Legal Requirements of the Housing
Element

California has required that local jurisdictions plan for housing since 1969. AB 2853, passed in 1980, established Government Code Article 10.6, Section 65580 et. seq. to define the need for, and content of Housing Elements. At its core, the law requires that the “housing element shall consist of an identification and analysis of existing and projected housing needs and a statement of goals, policies, quantified objectives, financial resources, and scheduled programs for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing” to meet the State’s housing goals. The basic components of a Housing Element were established at that time in Section 65583, and required that each Element include:
› An assessment of housing needs and an inventory of resources and constraints relevant to the meeting of local needs
› A statement of the community’s goals, quantified objectives, and policies relative to the maintenance, improvement, and development of housing
› A program that sets forth a schedule of actions to implement the policies and achieve the goals and objectives of the Housing Element to provide housing for all economic segments of the community guided by the following state housing
objectives
›› Provision of decent housing for all persons regardless of age, race, sex, marital status, source of income, or other factors
›› Provision of adequate housing by location, type, price and tenure

›› Development of a balanced residential environment
including access to jobs, community facilities, and services

Since that time, Housing Element law has been regularly updated, expanded and modified. The most recent update to Housing Element law occurred in 2017, when a series of bills were passed into law to address the State’s determination that California was experiencing a State-wide housing crisis. The laws included:
› SB 2 established a recordation fee for real estate
documentation which would fund planning grants for
affordable housing and affordable housing projects.
› SB 3 placed a $4 billion general obligation bond on the November 2018 ballot to fund affordable housing,
farmworker housing, transit-oriented development, infill infrastructure and home ownership.
› SB 35 mandated a streamlined approval process for infill affordable housing projects in communities that have not, according to the Department of Housing and Community
Development (HCD) met their affordable housing allocation (RHNA).
› AB 72 allowed HCD to find a housing element out of
compliance with State law, and to refer the non-compliant element to the State Attorney General for action at any time during a Housing Element planning period.
› AB 73 provided State-funded financial incentives for local jurisdictions which choose to create a streamlined zoning overlay for certain affordable housing projects.
› AB 101 required that Low-Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNC) be a by-right use in areas zoned for mixed-use and
nonresidential zoning districts permitting multifamily uses.

LBNC provide temporary room and board with limited barriers to entry while case managers work to connect homeless
individuals and families to income, public benefits, health services, permanent housing, or other shelter.
› SB 166 required that development proposals on local
jurisdictions’ sites inventory cannot be reduced in density without findings, and/or the identification of additional sites to result in ‘no net loss’ of affordable housing units in the sites inventory.
› SB 540 provided State funding for the planning and
implementation of workforce housing opportunity zones for very low, low and moderate income households.
› AB 571 modified the farmworker tax credit program to allow HCD to advance funds to migrant housing center operators at the beginning of each planting season, and allowed migrant housing to remain open for up to 275 days annually.
› AB 678 amended the Housing Accountability Act to limit a local jurisdiction’s ability to deny low and moderate income housing projects by increasing the required documentation and raising the standard of proof required of a local
jurisdiction.
› AB 686 (approved in 2018) required a public agency to administer its programs and activities relating to housing and community development in a manner that affirmatively furthers fair housing.
› AB 879 amended the annual reporting requirements of local jurisdictions to HCD regarding proposed projects, including processing times, number of project applications and
approvals, and required approval processes.
› AB 1397 amended the requirements of adequate sites
analysis to assure that sites are not only suitable, but also available, by requiring additional information in site
inventories.
› AB 1505 allowed local jurisdictions to adopt local ordinances that require affordable housing units on- or off-site when approving residential projects.
› AB 1515 established a ‘reasonable person’ standard to consistency of affordable housing projects and emergency shelters with local policies and standards.
› AB 1521 placed restrictions on the owners of affordable housing projects when terminating or selling their projects.

Relationship to Other Elements
As an element of the General Plan, the Housing Element identifies present and future housing needs, and establishes policies and programs to achieve those needs. In the context of the General Plan, the Housing Element functions as an integral part of a 9-181

2 comprehensive growth plan. For instance, projected housing need relates not only to residential land use acreages, but to the distribution of commercial lands and the jobs created by development on those lands. It also addresses policies to accommodate Rancho Mirage’s fair share of households in all income levels.

The Housing Element is closely correlated with the following mandated General Plan Elements:
› Land Use
› Circulation
› Conservation and Open Space
› Noise
› Safety

As part of the update of this Housing Element for the 2021-2029 planning period, the City has also reviewed the other elements of the General Plan, and found that this Housing Element is consistent, and that the General Plan is therefore internally consistent, as required by law. The City annually reviews the General Plan for internal consistency, and also conducts a consistency review if a General Plan Amendment is proposed.

Evaluation of Existing Housing Element
Policies and Programs

The Housing Element must include an evaluation of the goals, policies, and programs of the previous planning period, in this case the 2014-2021 timeframe. This evaluation helps the City determine which goals, policies and programs were effective; which are still being implemented; and which may either be complete, or were not effective in implementing the provision of housing. This evaluation helps the City determine how policy direction in the current planning period should be updated.

GOAL H 1
A variety of housing types that meet the needs of residents in Rancho Mirage.

GOAL H 2
Housing to meet the needs of Rancho Mirage’s lower income households.

GOAL H 3
The preservation and maintenance of Rancho Mirage’s affordable housing supply in a safe and sanitary condition.

Policy H 1
The General Plan shall provide for a mixture of residential densities dispersed throughout Rancho Mirage.

Evaluation: The General Plan Land Use Element establishes a variety of residential densities, ranging from one dwelling unit per 640 acres (Hillside Reserve) to nine dwelling units per acre (High Density Residential and Mobile Home Park), that are consistent with the low-density character of the city and surrounding desert communities. Lands designated for various densities are distributed throughout the city, as illustrated on the Land Use Map. In addition, the Section 19 Specific Plan (Ordinance No. 989, adopted 2010) allows both high-density residential and mixed-use development at densities of at least 20 units per acre and up to 28 units per acre. The Highway 111 Specific Plan, in development in 2020 and planned for adoption in 2021, will allow both high- density residential and mixed-use development at densities of at least 16 units per acre and up to 28 units per acre (the affordable housing overlay conditionally allows up to 34 units per acre). This policy will continue to be implemented.

Program H 1.A
The City shall monitor the remaining supply of vacant land in all residential zoning categories.

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: Annually with General Plan Annual Report.

Evaluation: The Development Services Department routinely updates its vacant land inventories. The Land Use Element of the City’s General Plan provides a tally of vacant land acreages in all residential zoning categories and projections of potential dwelling units and populations at buildout. The City also operates on a one- map system, so its Land Use and Zoning Map is always consistent in representing both General Plan and Zoning designations, and identifying the location of vacant residential lands. These tools assist the City in analyzing its land use balance, developing capital improvement plans, and making other planning and financial decisions. This program has been successful and will continue to be implemented.

Program H 1.B
The City shall review and revise its residential development standards, as needed, to ensure that a variety of housing types are accommodated without sacrificing the City’s design standards.

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: Annually with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

Evaluation: The Zoning Ordinance was amended several times between 2014 and 2021 to accommodate a variety of housing types. Ordinance No. 1086 was adopted in 2014 to increase minimum parcel size for High Density Residential, Medium Density Residential, Low Density Residential, and Very Low Density Residential. In 2019, the City adopted Ordinance No. 1148 to add provisions for junior accessory dwelling units and new State regulations on accessory dwelling units. Ordinance No. 1159, also adopted in 2019, amended various sections including general residential development standards, accessory uses and structures, and time extensions for development plans to clarify existing standards. This program has been successful and will be ongoing.

Program H 1.C
The City’s Density Bonus Ordinance shall be amended to satisfy the requirements of state law.

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: As needed with changes in state law.

Evaluation: The Density Bonus Ordinance is regularly reviewed for compliance with state law. No new projects qualified for or were granted density bonuses during the last planning period. This program will be continued as appropriate.

Policy H 2
The City’s residential development standards shall allow for a diversity of housing types while adhering to the General Plan’s community design policies.

Evaluation: The Zoning Ordinance includes seven residential zoning districts, each of which has its own development standards that allow for a diverse range of housing types, including single- and multi-family residences, manufactured housing,
guest/employee housing, and transitional/supportive housing, among others. The Section 19 Specific Plan provides greater flexibility for residential development types, such as live/work and mixed-use residential units, and sets forth specialized design standards and guidelines for the 270-plus-acre specific plan area.

The Highway 111 Specific Plan will provide similar flexibility for residential development types, and provides consistent yet flexible design standards and guidelines for the 684-acre specific plan area. All development standards are consistent with the General Plan’s community design policies that seek to preserve and enhance the city’s distinctive character. This policy has been successfully implemented and will continue.

Policy H 3
Affordable housing developments shall be distributed throughout Rancho Mirage rather than concentrated in one area.

Evaluation: The City strives to distribute affordable housing developments throughout the city to the greatest extent possible.

The 83-unit San Jacinto Villas, constructed during the 2006-2013 planning period, is in the southern portion of the city in the vicinity of Parkview Villas, another affordable, 82-unit age-restricted (55+) project. Its location along the Highway 111 corridor was determined to be beneficial for the resident senior population due to proximity to the public library, post office, commercial services, and bus stops. In 2018, the City extended the affordability covenant for 35 units at Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments through July 21, 2060. They include 18 low income units and 17 moderate income units, which will also benefit residents with convenience and quality living environment along the Highway 111 corridor. The Section 19 Specific Plan, adopted in 2010, offers affordable housing opportunities in the northern portion of the city just south of I-10, within walking distance of urban amenities and a future multi- modal transit station. The Highway 111 Specific Plan will provide affordable housing opportunities along the Highway 111 corridor, notably in the Thunder Road area where an affordable housing overlay conditionally allows up to 34 units per acre. The Highway 9-182

Housing Element

3 111 corridor is the City’s and the region’s primary arterial, and connects all cities in the Coachella Valley. Providing high density residential opportunities adjacent to the corridor will facilitate access to jobs, shopping, services and transit for future residents.

This policy will be maintained.

Policy H 4
Rental projects developed with City funds to provide affordable housing shall be owned by the Housing Authority to the greatest extent possible, in order to ensure that the quality of life in these projects is maintained.

Evaluation: The Housing Authority owns and manages 226
affordable rental units in four housing projects, all of which are age- restricted (55+) to serve the largest segment of the city’s population.

Parkview Villas consists of 82 units, and Whispering Waters contains 29 units. Santa Rosa Villas includes 33 units. The City’s newest project, San Jacinto Villas includes 82 affordable units.

With the elimination of Redevelopment in 2012, the Housing Authority has continued to manage and maintain its existing properties, but has not had funds available for the construction of additional units. The City will seek collaboration with private developers and organizations for new housing projects. This policy will be modified for the 2021-2029 planning period.

Program H 4.A
The Housing Authority shall consider all available options when developing rental units, including hiring contractors through requests for proposals, participating in tax credit applications and other strategies as they become available.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: As projects are proposed.

Evaluation: The Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park, acquired by the Housing Authority in 2009 with the intent to develop affordable housing, was cleared in 2017. The project site is adjacent to roadways, transit and utility infrastructure. There are currently no plans to develop the property, and no timeline for considering a project on the site. However, the City maintains this site as an option for an affordable housing project. Options include partnering with an affordable housing developer, offering the site for sale to an affordable housing developer, or selling the site for other purposes.

The property was not on the City’s Site Inventory during the 2014- 2021 planning period, but has been added in the Site Inventory for the 2021-2029 planning period. This program will be modified for the 2021-2029 planning period.

Program H 4.B
The Housing Authority shall maintain a program for substantial rehabilitation of existing rental units in Rancho Mirage.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: Annually with adoption of budget.

Evaluation: The Housing Authority did not have any available funding to grant lower income households financial assistance for home improvements from 2017 to 2019. All Housing Authority funding was used for the maintenance and operation of existing dwelling units provided by the City Housing Authority. The Housing Authority continues to maintain and rehabilitate Authority owned and operated housing units as needed. When health and safety concerns arise, the Housing Authority budgets for these corrections and takes actions to remedy the concern. Roofs and cabinetry at Parkview Villas and Whispering Waters were updated to address health and safety concerns in 2014-2015. In 2018, the Housing Authority updated cabinetry in units that became vacant. The Housing Authority will continue to rehabilitate its own units as the need arises. This program will be maintained in the 2021-2029 planning period as it relates to Housing Authority properties.

Program H 4.C
The City shall solicit private parties to purchase and consolidate small vacant lots in the Thunder Road area to allow the development of an economically feasible project for extremely low, very low, low and/or moderate income households.

Outreach efforts shall include annual meetings with affordable housing developers such as Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, Habitat for Humanity and Palm Desert Development.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: Annually through Desert Valley Builders Association meetings, individual meetings with developers, and other appropriate parties.

Evaluation: During this Housing Element cycle, only two properties were purchased and entitled for duplexes, which may
accommodate moderate-income households. The developers
have not exercised their entitlement, nor have they requested further meetings with the City to discuss affordability covenants. In 2019, the City began to prepare an update to its Highway 111 Specific Plan. The update of the plan will conditionally allow up to 34 units per acre with an affordable housing overlay in the Thunder Road area in order to attract development. This program will be maintained for the 2021-2029 planning period.

Policy H 5
The City shall strive to meet the state-mandated special shelter needs of, large families, female-headed households, single-parent families, workers employed in Rancho Mirage, senior citizens, the disabled and homeless individuals through the continued efforts of the Housing Authority in developing or assisting private interests in developing housing for all types of households.

Evaluation: As described above, the Housing Authority owns and manages 226 affordable rental units, all of which are restricted for seniors (ages 55+). Ordinance No. 1047 (adopted in 2012) requires 1,120 affordable housing units, and a specified percentage of four-plus bedroom units that can accommodate large families in the Section 19 Specific Plan area. However, no new projects were developed in Section 19 in the last planning period.

The City contributes financially to a wide range of regional organizations that provide housing and other support to homeless and disabled individuals, including Angel View, Hidden Harvest, FIND Food Bank, Martha’s Village and Kitchen, and Jewish Family Services of the Desert. This policy shall be continued in the 2021- 2029 planning period.

Program H 5.A
Continue to support and assist in enforcing the provisions of the Federal Fair Housing Act. Information on the Fair Housing Act, as well as methods for responding to complaints, shall be available at City Hall. The materials shall also be provided to the City Library and Post Office for distribution. The City’s Housing Commission shall continue to hear Fair Housing issues at its regular meetings.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: In accordance with the Housing Commission’s public meeting schedule.

Evaluation: The City Housing Authority, Housing Commission and Mobile Home Park Fair Practices Commission continue to support and assist in enforcing the provisions of the federal Fair Housing Act. Information on the Fair Housing Act, as well as methods for responding to complaints is available on the City's website. There is also a staff liaison at City Hall that works with any housing related questions or issues that arise. The Housing Commission will continue to hear fair housing issues when brought to the Commission's attention. No such cases were brought before the Commission in the 2014-2021 planning period. The City
distributed compliance surveys to affordable housing projects and confirmed they have been in compliance with the covenants as of 2020. The Mobile Home Park Fair Practices Commission hears petitions for determination regarding rent levels at the City’s mobile home parks. Cases may also be filed with the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County and may be transferred to the state Department of Fair Employment and Housing.

The City Attorney is in the process of updating the “Guide to Mobile Home Residency Law, Rights and Responsibilities,” which explains landlord and tenant regulations pertaining to mobile homes and mobile home parks. The guide will be posted on the City website and updated as needed. This program has been successful and will be maintained.
9-183

4 Program H 5.B
The City shall work with private organizations in assisting whenever possible in the housing of disabled residents, through continued participation by the Housing Authority.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority, Development Services Department
Schedule: Annually with adoption of budget.

Evaluation: All affordable housing projects owned and managed by the Housing Authority are compliant with the provisions of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). In addition, the City regularly contributes to non-profit and charitable organizations, including those that provide housing and other services for disabled residents, through special assistance funds and other support. The Housing Authority was not presented with any opportunities to work with private organizations wishing to assist residents with special needs, including disabilities, in the 2014-2021 planning period.

Program H 5.C
The City shall amend the Zoning Ordinance to allow transitional and supportive housing as a residential use and only subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone.

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: 2013-2014

Evaluation: The current Zoning Ordinance permits transitional and supportive use housing (up to six residents) by right, the same as residential uses in base zoning district and the same as group housing. For more than six occupants, the Zoning Ordinance requires a Conditional Use Permit, which is the same process required for large group homes. The City amended the Municipal Code in 2019 to add transitional and supportive housing, up to a maximum of six beds, to the allowable residential uses matrix. These include State licensed facilities that are exempt from local review and/or permitting. This program has been completed.

Policy H 6
The City shall encourage the protection of existing affordable senior housing units.

Evaluation: The Housing Authority owns and manages four affordable housing projects that are age-restricted and provide a total of 226 units for extremely low, very low, low and moderate income seniors. The number of units is different from the 229 units identified in the previous Housing Element as 3 units are used by on-site property managers or maintenance technicians and thus not available for low income households. The Housing Authority monitors existing age-restricted housing in the city; none was removed during the 2014-2021 period. This program will be continued.

Program H 6.A
The City shall monitor existing mobile home parks, and shall consider the allocation of General Fund and/or Housing Authority funds to correct health and safety concerns as they arise.

Responsible Agency: Code Compliance Division, Housing
Authority
Schedule: Annually with adoption of the budget.

Evaluation: The City conducted inspections of mobile home parks and continued to monitor the parks through its Code Compliance Division and Building & Safety Division. However, no City or Housing Authority funding source has been identified to assist with any corrections. The City's Housing Authority is primarily involved in the maintenance of Housing Authority-owned multi-family housing. This program will be carried over to the new planning period.

Program H 6.B
The City shall monitor existing senior apartment buildings, and shall consider the allocation of General Fund and Housing Authority funds to correct health and safety concerns as they arise.

Responsible Agency: Code Compliance Division, Housing
Authority
Schedule: Annually with adoption of the budget.

Evaluation: The City Housing Authority continues to monitor all senior apartment complexes owned by the Housing Authority.

When health and safety concerns arise, the Housing Authority budgets for these corrections. Roofs and cabinetry at Parkview Villas and Whispering Waters were updated to address health and safety concerns in 2014-2015. In 2018, the Housing
Authority updated cabinetry in units that became vacant. This is an ongoing program.

Policy H 7
There shall be equal access to housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, family status or sexual orientation.

Evaluation: The City has numerous anti-discrimination policies and regulations in place, including fair housing practices, and continues to implement them on an ongoing basis.

Policy H 8
The City’s mandated fair share of affordable housing shall be maintained by resale and rental restrictions, applicant screenings, and other appropriate mechanisms established as conditions of approval for new affordable housing projects.

Evaluation: Privately developed affordable housing projects in the city are contractually obligated to maintain affordability restrictions for a specified period of time and in accordance with applicable laws. This policy has been successful and will continue to be implemented as new projects are proposed.

Policy H 9
The Housing Authority shall pursue the development of 56 extremely low, very low, low and moderate income units in this planning period.

Evaluation: During the 2014-2021 planning period, 430 new residential building permits were issued in the city. This includes 2 moderate income and 428 above moderate income units.

In 2019, the City began to prepare an update to its Highway 111 Specific Plan. The update of the plan will establish minimum densities of 16 units per acre on designated sites and allow up to 34 units per acre with an affordable housing overlay in the Thunder Road area to further accommodate the need for affordable housing.

This policy will be replaced with policies that reflect the 2021- 2029 planning period Regional Housing Needs Allocation
(RHNA), which has increased substantially from the 2014-2021 allocation.

Program H 9.A
The Housing Authority shall pursue a funding strategy for the development of the Monterey Village project as a family project comprised of approximately 227 ownership and rental units including extremely low, very low and low income family households. The Authority shall consider all available tools to leverage the project, and shall work with private development entities to secure the total funding necessary given the elimination of future housing set-aside funds.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority, Development Services Department
Schedule: 2016: Apply for funding. 2017: Begin construction. 2018: Occupy.

Evaluation: The Housing Authority was not able to construct the Monterey Village project due to lack of funds. The City has made efforts to secure partnerships with the development community and is getting positive responses given the project location and access to transit and jobs. This program will be modified for the 2021- 2029 planning period.

Program H 9.B
The Housing Authority shall consider the construction of units containing 4 or more bedrooms in its future development projects to address the potential for overcrowding, which currently stands at 2.5 percent of the City’s total housing units. The Monterey Village project shall include 6 (2.5 percent) units with 4 or more bedrooms.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: 2016-2018 9-184

Housing Element

5 Evaluation: The City still owns the land upon which the Monterey Village project was to be located. The City remains open to dialogue regarding public/private partnerships that may further this program and has been actively engaging with the
development community. The City has received positive responses given the project location and access to transit and jobs. This program will be reevaluated for the 2021-2029 planning period.

Program H 9.C
The Housing Authority shall give family households first priority for extremely low, very low and low income units.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: 2014-2021

Evaluation: The City Housing Authority continues to give priority to extremely low, very low, and low income households for existing projects. In 2018, the City extended the affordability covenant for 35 units at Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments through July 21, 2060.

They include 18 low income units (all Junior 1 bed/1 bath), and 17 moderate income units (8 1 bed/1 bath, 4 2 bed/1 bath, and 5 2 bed/2 bath units). This program will be continued.

Policy H 10
The City may, whenever it deems feasible and necessary, reduce, subsidize or defer development fees to facilitate the development of affordable housing.

Program H 10.A
The City will include an analysis of fee reduction, subsidy or deferral in staff reports for affordable housing projects, to facilitate the Council’s consideration of same on a case by case basis.

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: As projects are proposed.

Evaluation: The City will continue to consider and implement fee reductions or subsidies whenever deemed feasible and necessary.

No projects asked for or received subsidies in the 2014-2021 planning period. This program will continue to be implemented.

Policy H 11
The City shall apply its density bonus provisions to all qualifying affordable housing projects.

Evaluation: No projects asked for or received density bonus allowances during the 2014-2021 planning period. The City will continue to consider and apply density bonus provisions whenever appropriate.

Policy H 12
The City shall provide up to 205 units for extremely low, very low, or low income households in Planning Areas 4.01, 4.02, or 4.03 of the Section 19 Specific Plan.

Program H 12.A
The minimum 20 unit per acre requirement (Government Code Section 65583.2 (h) & (i)) shall be maintained in the Section 19 Specific Plan for Planning Areas 4.01, 4.02 and 4.03 consistent with Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B).

Responsible Agency: Development Services Department
Schedule: 2013-2014
Evaluation: Ordinance No.1047, adopted by the City in 2012, amended the Section 19 Specific Plan to provide 1,120 dwelling units for extremely low, very low, and low income households. No projects have been approved in Section 19 since 2014. However, in 2017 a new water trunk line was installed which improved water pressure in this area, which had previously been a constraint on development. With the constraint eliminated, Section 19 has greater potential for development in the 2021-2029 planning period. This program will be maintained for the 2021-2029 planning period.

Program H 12.B
To facilitate the development of housing for lower-income households in the Section 19 Specific Plan area, the City will encourage further land divisions to result in parcel sizes that facilitate multifamily development affordable to lower income households in light of state, federal and local financing programs (i.e., 50-100 units). The City will offer incentives for the development of affordable housing including but not limited to:
priority to processing subdivision maps that include affordable housing units, expedited review for the subdivision of larger sites into buildable lots, financial assistance (based on availability of federal, state, local foundations, and private housing funds).

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: 2014-2021 - As projects are proposed.

Evaluation: The City continues to encourage development in Section 19, including affordable housing. In 2017, a new water trunk line was installed which improved water pressure in this area, which had previously been a constraint on development. With the constraint eliminated, Section 19 has greater potential for development in the 2021-2029 planning period. This program will continue to be implemented.

Policy H 13
The City may assist existing extremely low, very low and low income households in maintaining their homes in a safe and habitable condition.

Program H 13.A
The Housing Authority shall provide financial assistance, subject to available funding, to lower income households through its Home Improvement Program, as described in Rehabilitation Needs.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: Annually with adoption of the budget.

Evaluation: The Home Improvement Program ended Fiscal Year 2013-2014 (June 30, 2014). The Housing Authority has not had funds available to reinstate the program. All Housing Authority funding was used for the maintenance and operation of existing dwelling units owned by the Housing Authority. This program will be reinstated if funds are available.

Policy H 14
Relocation assistance shall be provided to lower income households who are displaced by public or private redevelopment activities as mandated by the state.

Evaluation: The City provided relocation assistance for former residents at Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park until its clearance in 2017. This program will continue to be implemented in the future, if residents require relocation.

Policy H 15
The City shall make every effort to preserve units at risk at Rancho Mirage Resort.

Program H 15.A
In order to preserve units at risk, the City shall:
« Monitor the status of affordable units that may become at-risk of conversion.
« Provide technical assistance as feasible to facilitate preservation for units considered at risk of conversion. Annually contact property owners, gauge interest and identify non-profit partners and pursue funding and preservation strategy on a project basis.
« Work with owners and potential buyers to assure that
affordability covenants are maintained through the planning period.
« Use, where feasible, available financial resources to restructure federally assisted preservation projects, in order to preserve affordability. Annually identify funding sources for at- risk preservation and acquisition rehabilitation and pursue or support applications of non-profits for these funding sources at the federal, state or local levels.

Responsible Agency: Housing Authority
Schedule: 2014-2015

Evaluation: The 30-year affordable resale restrictions for 41 units at Rancho Mirage Resort may have lapsed, and the City was not able to identify any viable means to reinstate the resale restrictions.

The units at Rancho Mirage Resort are considered to have lost affordability and are no longer included in the City affordable housing inventory. The City had one development, Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments, at risk of converting to market rate in 2018. 9-185

6 Affordability restrictions have been extended to 2060. The City continues to monitor affordable units at-risk of converting to market rate. This program was completed. Please see Units at Risk section of this Housing Element for discussion of potential units at risk during the 2021-2029 planning period.

Summary of Effects on Special Needs Residents
As described in Policy H 5, Program H 5.B and Policy H 6, above, the City’s affordable housing units accommodate seniors and disabled persons, and the Section 19 Specific Plan includes requirements for affordable 4-bedroom units.

Housing Needs
The first step in considering the City’s housing needs is the evaluation of the community’s makeup. This section addresses demographic information collected from a variety of sources to develop a picture of Rancho Mirage’s residents. The following data relies on both 2010 Census information, which is largely outdated, and updated data provided by the Census’ American Community Survey and other sources where available.

Regional Setting
Rancho Mirage is located in the Coachella Valley of Riverside County. Riverside County, particularly the western half of the County, has experienced significant, steady growth for decades, which has slowed since the beginning of the century. County population grew from 663,923 in 1980 to 1,110,000 in 1990, an increase of 67 percent. By 2000, the County’s population had increased to 1,545,387, an increase of 39 percent in ten years.

By 2010, it had increased to 2,189,641, which represents a 10- year increase of 41.7 percent. The Department of Finance currently estimates that the County’s January 2020 population stood at 2,442,304, a 11.5 percent increase over 2010 Census estimates.

This increase was the smallest population increase in the County in recent history.

The City’s growth has not been as significant. Rancho Mirage has grown more slowly than the County as a whole, and more slowly than the Coachella Valley generally.

Demographic Characteristics
Age Distribution
The median age in Rancho Mirage in 2010 was 62.3 years of age. Approximately 44 percent of the population was over the age of 65. TABLE 2 presents the age distribution of the city’s population based on the 2010 Census data and American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates.

In 2018, children and youth (ages 0–19) comprised 7.5 percent of the population, young and middle-age adults (20 to 54 years) represented 22.7 percent and all age groups over 55 years made up 69.6 percent of the City’s total population. The data show that the population is aging at a pace faster than the region, State or nation. Between 2010 and 2018, other than the 25 to 34 age group, which increased by 1.4%, all age groups under 65 years decreased by a combined total of 10.3%, and all age groups over 65 years increased by a combined total of 8.7%. The increase is also reflected in the median age, which increased from 62.3 years in 2010 to 66.3 years in 2018.

The data suggests that housing demand is currently highest for seniors, and that this demand has increased by over 20% since the last Census. Should the aging trend continue, there will be a growing demand for senior housing and programs that promote “aging in place.”

TABLE 2 AGE DISTRIBUTION, 2010-2018
AGE 2010 2018
NUMBER % OF
TOTAL
NUMBER % OF
TOTAL
Under 5 years 423 2.5 225 1.2
5 to 9 years 496 2.9 351 1.9
10 to 14 years 559 3.2 379 2.1
15 to 19 years 513 3.0 419 2.3
20 to 24 years 345 2.0 123 0.7
25 to 34 years 661 3.8 947 5.2
35 to 44 years 1,224 7.1 1,248 6.9
45 to 54 years 2,163 12.6% 1,793 9.9%
55 to 59 years 1,453 8.4% 1,451 8.0%
60 to 64 years 1,799 10.4% 1,594 8.8%
65 to 74 years 3,544 20.6% 4,540 25.1%
75 to 84 years 2,751 16.0% 3,601 19.9%
85 years and over 1,287 7.5% 1,404 7.8%
Total 17,218 100% 18,075 100%
Median age 62.3 66.3
Source: 2010 U.S. Census Tables P12 and P13; American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP05

Ethnic Characteristics

TABLE 3 shows the racial and ethnic distribution for Rancho Mirage in 2010 and 2018. Although the community remains
predominantly white, the data shows an increase in minority population. This is representative of a trend throughout Southern California.

TABLE 3 RACIAL/ETHNIC DISTRIBUTION, 2010-2018
RACE/ETHNICITY 2010 2018
NUMBER % OF
TOTAL
NUMBER % OF
TOTAL
One Race
White 15,267 88.7 15,786 87.3
Black or African American 256 1.5 413 2.3
American Indian and Alaska
Native
94 0.5 71 0.4
Asian 651 3.8 929 5.1
Native Hawaiian and Other
Pacific Islander
14 0.1 41 0.2
Some Other Race 598 3.5 450 2.5
Two or More Races 338 2.0 385 2.1
Total 17,218 100.0 18,075 100.0
Hispanic or Latino (of any race) 1,964 11.4 1,776 9.8
Source: 2010 U.S. Census, Tables P3 and P12H; American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP05

The percentage of Black/African Americans and Asians increased by a combined 2.1 percent. The percentages of American Indian and Alaska Native, Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander, and Two or More Races remained largely unchanged. The
percentage of residents in the “Some Other Race” category decreased from 3.5% to 2.5%. The percentage of Hispanic or Latino residents decreased slightly from 11.4% to 9.8%.

Population Growth
Rancho Mirage has the second smallest population in the Coachella Valley. Rancho Mirage has shown slower population growth in the last decade than the early 2000s. The city’s growth rate has stabilized since 2015, as demonstrated by the information in TABLE 8.

Between 2000 and 2010, the City population increased by

30.0% from 13,249 to 17,218 residents. Between 2010 and 2018, the population increased by 5.0%, from 17,218 to 18,075 residents. As shown in Table 3, the percent increase was most close to that of Cathedral City (5.5%) and less than all other Coachella Valley cities and Riverside County, which ranged between 5.5 % and 20.0%.

TABLE 1 POPULATION TRENDS – NEIGHBORING JURISDICTIONS
CITY 2000 2010
CENSUS
2018
ACS
CHANGE 2000-2010 CHANGE 2010–2018
% # % #
Cathedral City 42,647 51,200 20.1 8,553 54,037 5.5 2,837 Coachella 22,724 40,704 79.1 17,980 44,849 10.2 4,145 Desert Hot Springs 16,582 25,938 56.4 9,356 28,430 9.6 2,492 Indian Wells 3,816 4,958 29.9 1,142 5,317 7.2 359
Indio 49,116 76,036 54.8 26,920 91,235 20.0 15,199
La Quinta 23,694 37,467 58.1 13,773 40,704 8.6 3,237 Palm Desert 41,155 48,445 17.7 7,290 52,124 7.6 3,679 Palm Springs 42,807 44,552 4.1 1,745 47,525 6.7 2,973 Rancho Mirage 13,249 17,218 30.0 3,969 18,075 5.0 857 Coachella Valley 255,790 346,518 35.5 90,728 382,296 10.3 35,778 Riverside County 1,545,387 2,189,641 41.7 644,254 2,383,286 8.8 193,645 Source: 2000 and 2010 Census; American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates 9-186

Housing Element

7 TABLE 4 POPULATION GROWTH, 2012 TO 2018

YEAR SQUARE
MILES

POPULATION PERCENTAGE

INCREASE
2012 25.1 17,215 N/A
2013 24.5 17,456 1.4
2014 24.5 17,634 1.0
2015 24.8 17,770 0.8
2016 24.8 17,876 0.6
2017 24.9 17,975 0.6
2018 25.4 18,075 0.6
Source: US Census TIGERweb Web Map Service (ACS 2012-
2020), American Community Survey 2014-2018 and 2009-
2013 5-Year Estimates, and California DOF 2012

Employment
The City’s economy is heavily rooted in the service industry like much of the Coachella Valley, but the largest number of residents are employed in the growing health care industry. TABLE 5 describes employment by industry in Rancho Mirage in 2018. The data show that 5,879 residents over 16 were in the civilian employed labor force. The largest percentage of the population was employed in “educational services, health care, and social assistance” (28.8%), followed by “professional, scientific, management, admin., waste management” (12.6%) and “arts, entertainment, recreation, accommodation, and food services” (12.1%). The high number of health care workers can be tied to the presence of Eisenhower Medical Center and a number of medical offices associated with the hospital, as well as a number of nursing homes, assisted living facilities and similar age- and health-related businesses in the City.

1 2019 Greater Palm Springs Economic Report, Coachella Valley Economic Partnership, Figure 24.
2 Ibid, Figures 25 and 26.

TABLE 5 EMPLOYMENT BY INDUSTRY
INDUSTRY TYPE 2018

NUMBER PERCENTAGE

OF TOTAL
Civilian employed population 16 years
and over:

Agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting,
mining
10 0.2
Construction 337 5.7
Manufacturing 286 4.9
Wholesale Trade 112 1.9
Retail Trade 468 8.0
Transportation, warehousing, utilities 200 3.4
Information 110 1.9
Finance, insurance, real estate, rental,
leasing
662 11.3
Professional, scientific, management,
admin., waste management
742 12.6
Educational services, health care,
social assistance
1,695 28.8
Arts, entertainment, recreation,
accommodation, food services
712 12.1
Other services, except public
administration
323 5.5
Public administration 222 3.8
Total 5,879 100.0
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table S2405

As shown in TABLE 6, more than half (51.9%) of the City’s civilian employed labor force is employed in “management, business, science, and arts” occupations, followed by “sales and office” occupations (23.8%).

3 California Employment Development Department annual
unemployment rates (labor force), not seasonally adjusted, not preliminary.

TABLE 6 EMPLOYMENT BY OCCUPATION
OCCUPATION 2018
NO. % OF
TOTAL
Civilian employed population 16 years and over
Management, business, science, and arts
occupations
3,054 51.9
Service occupations 676 11.5
Sales and office occupations 1,400 23.8
Natural resources, construction, and
maintenance occupations
218 3.7
Production, transportation, and material moving
occupations
531 9.0
Total 5,879 100.0
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP03

TABLE 7 shows the largest employers located in Rancho Mirage and the number of workers each employs. The City’s principal employers include health care providers, golf clubs and resorts, and auto dealerships and other retailers. Typical jobs at these facilities would include doctors, nurses and support staff, cooks and food service providers, store clerks and managers, and auto salesmen and mechanics. The Agua Caliente Tribe is the second largest employer as owner of the Agua Caliente Resort & Casino, thereby contributing to the need of workforce housing. The Tribe, however, has not committed to meeting its housing needs on Tribal land in the City. The City’s retail businesses are comprised of a large number of small businesses, rather than a few large businesses. As a result, TABLE 7 does not reflect accurately the retail trade component of the workers in the city (see TABLE 5, Retail Trade accounts for 8% employment in the city).
4 2019 Greater Palm Springs Economic Report, Coachella Valley Economic Partnership, Figure 28.

TABLE 7 MAJOR EMPLOYERS, 2016

EMPLOYER NUMBER OF

EMPLOYEES

PRIMARY

DESCRIPTION
Eisenhower Medical Center 2,480 Hospital / Clinics
Agua Caliente Resort & Casino 1,300 Casino
Omni Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa 500 Hotel
Westin Mission Hills Resort & Spa 470 Hotel
The Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage & Spa 397 Hotel
Hazelden Betty Ford Center 269 Rehabilitation Center
indiGO Auto Group 225 Auto Sales & Service
Mission Hills Country Club 211 Country Club
Cheesecake Factory 180 Restaurant
Home Depot 149 Home Improvement
Source: Rancho Mirage Economic Profile, City of Rancho Mirage website, https://ranchomirageca.gov/residents/living-in-rancho-mirage/community-economic-profile/ .

The Great Recession, which began in late 2007, saw high unemployment and job losses in the Coachella Valley, where every seventh person lost their job.1 Regional employment started to increase in 2011, but the annual growth was still slower than pre- Recession levels until 2017, with the Coachella Valley suffering greater impacts than western Riverside County, the state, or the nation. The construction sector was hardest hit regionally; approximately 70% of jobs were lost, and only 14% recovered by December 2017.2 The Retail Trade and Wholesale Trade sectors lost around 6,700 jobs but have generally returned to pre- Recession levels. Two sectors have fully recovered and even added jobs: Education and Health Services and, to a lesser extent, Leisure and Hospitality.

Between 2010 and 2019, annual unemployment rates in Rancho Mirage decreased steadily from a high of 10.7% in 2010 to a low of 3.2% in 2019.3 Analysis of employment data from 2005 to 2017 shows that, as of December 2017, Rancho Mirage had not only fully recovered the job losses it incurred during the Great Recession, but gained more than 30% relative to previous peak employment.4 This scenario is much better than other Coachella Valley cities; Palm Springs is the only other city that had recovered and exceeded its previous peak, though by less than 10%. Future employment opportunities for City residents will include a variety of 9-187

8 new retail, service, and entertainment jobs offered by future development in the Highway 111 corridor, Porcupine Creek Retreat resort, and Section 31 (Grand Oasis Crystal Lagoon) area.

Many Rancho Mirage residents work in other communities, and many residents from other cities work in Rancho Mirage. TABLE 8 describes the employment locations of Rancho Mirage residents.

As shown, only 28.6% of City residents work in Rancho Mirage, suggesting a jobs-housing imbalance for City residents. Close to half of City residents work in Palm Desert (23.8%) or Palm Springs (21.9%).

TABLE 8 COMMUTING PATTERNS

WHERE RANCHO MIRAGE

RESIDENTS WORK
NO. OF RANCHO

MIRAGE RESIDENTS

PERCENTAGE

OF TOTAL
Indio 139 5.3
Cathedral City 229 8.8
Palm Desert 619 23.8
Palm Springs 569 21.9
Coachella 49 1.9
La Quinta 137 5.3
Desert Hot Springs 32 1.2
Rancho Mirage 744 28.6
Indian Wells 85 3.3
Source: 2019 Greater Palm Springs Economic Report, Coachella Valley Economic Partnership, Table 6. Based on 2015 data.

Income
Incomes vary significantly by region, industry, and type of job. TABLE 9 describes average income per worker, by industry, in the Coachella Valley. As shown, the highest-paying sectors are Finance/Insurance/Real Estate, Government, and Information, with incomes averaging around $50,000 to $60,000. The lowest- paying sectors are Retail Trade, Other Services, and Leisure and Hospitality, with incomes averaging around $31,000.

TABLE 9 AVERAGE INCOME BY INDUSTRY, COACHELLA VALLEY

INDUSTRY AVERAGE INCOME
PER WORKER, 2017
Agriculture $29,571
Construction $45,488
Manufacturing $46,340
Retail Trade $32,281
Information $50,493
Finance, Insurance, Real Estate $59,726
Professional and Business Services $43,736
Education and Health Services $48,322
Leisure and Hospitality $31,513
Government $58,711
Other Services $31,836
Logistics $45,114
Source: 2019 Greater Palm Springs Economic Report, Coachella Valley Economic Partnership, Figure 29

The following table compares median household income in Rancho Mirage and Riverside County in 2010 and 2018. The City’s 2010 median household income was 129% of the County’s, and the City’s 2018 median household income was 111% of the County’s. During this period, the City’s median household income decreased by 4.17% while the County saw a 10.7% increase.

TABLE 10 MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD INCOME

JURISDICTION

MEDIAN HOUSEHOLD
INCOME
% OF COUNTY
MEDIAN

HOUSEHOLD
INCOME
2010 2018
%

INCREASE
2010-
2018
2010
2018
Rancho Mirage $74,327 $71,227 -4.2 128.7 111.4
Riverside County $57,768 $63,948 10.7 100.0 100.0
Source: American Community Survey 2006-2010 and 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP03

Households
From 2010 to 2018, the number of Rancho Mirage households grew at a 6.5% rate, from 8,829 to 9,406, as shown in TABLE 11.

In 2018, the majority of households consisted of non-family households (48.0%) and married couple families (47.4%). The data also show that the City had a total of 436 single householder households, 118 of which were male, and 318 of which were female.

TABLE 11 HOUSEHOLD GROWTH TRENDS
YEAR NO. OF

HOUSEHOLDS
#

INCREASE
%

INCREASE
2010 8,829 - -
2018 9,406 577 6.5
Source: 2010 U.S. Census, Table P28; American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP02

TABLE 12 HOUSEHOLD TYPES
HOUSEHOLD TYPE NO. OF

HOUSEHOLDS

PERCENTAGE

OF TOTAL
Family households:

Married couple family 4,456 47.4
Male householder, no wife
present
118 1.3
Female householder, no
husband present
318 3.4
Subtotal 4,892 52.0
Non-family households 4,514 48.0
Total Households 9,406 100.0
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Yr Estimates, Table DP02

Housing Characteristics
The character of the city’s housing has not significantly changed over time. The Department of Finance estimates that as of January 2020, there are 14,788 housing units in the city, a 3.4% increase from 14,307 units in 2012, as shown in Table 13. The
predominant type of dwelling unit in the City of Rancho Mirage continues to be single-family detached, which increased by 485 units. All other housing types remain largely constant, where mobile homes increased by 2 units, and multi-family complexes with 5 or more units decreased by 6 units.

TABLE 13 HOUSING STOCK TRENDS – 2012 AND 2020
2012 2020
UNIT TYPE NO. OF
UNITS
% OF
TOTAL
UNITS 1
NUMBER
OF
UNITS
% OF
TOTAL
UNITS 1
Single-Family
Detached
7,659 53.5 8,144 55.1
Single-Family
Attached
4,187 29.3 4,187 28.3
Multi-Family, 2–4
Units
725 5.1 725 4.9
Multi-Family, 5 or
More Units
841 5.9 835 5.6
Mobile homes 895 6.3 897 6.1
Total 14,307 100.0 14,788 100.0
Source: Dept. of Finance Table E-5, 2012 and 2020.

1. differences due to rounding
Vacancy Status
The 2014-2018 American Community Survey showed an overall vacancy rate of 39.5 percent. Correcting for seasonal or recreational units, which are considered vacant by the Census but are not available or used for permanent occupancy, the vacancy rate decreases to 8 percent. TABLE 14 provides the complete data as of 2018. Of the 9,406 (60.5%) occupied housing units in the City, about 80.7% are owner-occupied, and 19.3% are renter- occupied. The homeowner vacancy rate is 3.9%, while the rental vacancy rate is 12.6%, which can indicate excess supply or decreased property values in the rental market.

TABLE 14 VACANCY STATUS, 2018

VACANCY STATUS NUMBER

OF UNITS
%

OF TOTAL
UNITS

CITYWIDE
Occupied Units:

Owner-occupied 7,587 48.8
Renter-occupied 1,819 11.7
Subtotal 9,406 60.5
Vacant Units:

For rent 268 1.7
Rented, not occupied 39 0.3
For sale only 309 2.0
Sold, not occupied 73 0.5
For seasonal, recreational, or
occasional use 4,905 31.5
For migrant workers 0 0.0
Other vacant 555 3.6
Subtotal 6,149 39.5
Total Units 15,555 100.0
Vacancy Rate:

Homeowner vacancy rate 3.9%
Rental vacancy rate 12.6%
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Tables DP04 and B25004

Overcrowding
Housing need is defined by the state Department of Housing and Community Development in these ways:
› Overcrowding (more than 1.01 persons per room)
› Overpaying (paying more than 30 percent of household income for shelter)
› Residing in substandard units 9-188

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9 The 2014-2018 American Community Survey provides current data on overcrowding in Rancho Mirage. For owner-occupied units in the city, 53 housing units are considered to be overcrowded, and for renter-occupied units, 88 housing units are overcrowded. Based on this data, a total of 141 housing units in Rancho Mirage are overcrowded. This represents 1.5 percent of all occupied units in the city. Table 15 shows the detailed data for overcrowding. Severely overcrowded units have more than 1.5 persons per room and are a subset of overcrowded units.

Approximately 14.2% of all overcrowded units in the City are severely overcrowded.

TABLE 15 OVERCROWDING

PERSONS PER ROOM OWNER-

OCCUPIED
UNITS

RENTER-

OCCUPIED
UNITS

TOTAL
%
OF
TOTAL

0.5 or fewer 7,080 1,472 8,552 90.9

0.51 to 1.00 454 259 713 7.6

1.01 to 1.50 47 74 121 1.3

1.51 to 2.00 6 11 17 0.2

2.01 or more 0 3 3 0.03
Total Overcrowded 53 88 141 1.5
% Overcrowded by
Tenure

37.6 62.4 --- ---
Total Severely
Overcrowded
6 14 20 0.2
% Severely
Overcrowded by
Tenure

30.0 70.0 --- ---
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table B25014

Overpayment
The data presented in Table 16. show overpayment by income category, the amount overpaid by renters, and the amount overpaid for owners. Both homeowners and renters were
overpaying for housing between 2012 and 2016.

The Comprehensive Housing Affordability Strategy (CHAS) database, provided by HUD and based on U.S. Census American Community Survey data, describes the number of households, by income, with housing cost burdens. The latest CHAS data for the

5 “Inland Empire Quarterly Economic Report,” Year 31, Economics & Politics, Inc. October 2019.
2012-2016 period for Rancho Mirage are shown in the following table. Of all owner households, 37.5% are overpaying for housing, and 21.1% are severely overpaying. The percentages are higher when analyzing lower-income households as a group. Of all lower-income owner households, 76.6% are overpaying, and

56.9% are severely overpaying.

The patterns are similar for renter households. Of all renter households, 56.7% are overpaying, and 36.0% are severely overpaying. Percentages are higher for low-income households as a group. Of all lower-income renter households, 86.8% are overpaying, and 59.5% are severely overpaying.

Housing Costs
The city of Rancho Mirage has a relatively high median price for single-family, owner-occupied units and rental units. The median value for 2013 and 2018 are shown in TABLE 17. TABLE 19 calculates the amount a family of four in different income categories can afford to spend on housing, assuming that no more than 30 percent of the household’s income is spent on housing.

Home Values
The following table compares median housing values in Coachella Valley cities from 2013 to 2018. Rancho Mirage’s median housing value was $518,000 in 2013, which was the second highest after Indian Wells. The City’s median housing value decreased 3.5% over the 5-year period, in contrast to the upward

trend in the region. However, it still ranks second highest in the Coachella Valley. A recent regional economic analysis indicates that, in Rancho Mirage in 2019 (3rd quarter), the median price was $674,500 for existing homes and $530,500 for new homes.5

TABLE 17 REGIONAL MEDIAN HOUSING VALUE TRENDS, 2013 - 2018

JURISDICTION

MEDIAN VALUE,

OWNER-OCCUPIED UNITS

% CHANGE
2013-2018 2013 2018
Desert Hot Springs $121,600 $174,900 43.8%
Palm Springs $267,800 $367,900 37.4%
Cathedral City $179,500 $259,900 44.8%
Rancho Mirage $518,000 $499,900 -3.5%
Palm Desert $308,000 $335,400 9.0%
Indian Wells $604,600 $706,800 16.9%
La Quinta $348,400 $386,200 10.8%
Indio $192,600 $267,900 39.1%
Coachella $137,600 $207,300 50.7%
Source: American Community Survey 2009-2013 and 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table B25077

Rental Costs
The rental housing market in Rancho Mirage includes apartments, townhomes, and single-family homes. TABLE 18 shows median gross rent by number of bedrooms, according to the American Community Survey. The median gross rent is $1,196.

TABLE 16 OVERPAYMENT BY INCOME CATEGORY AND TENURE
HOUSEHOLD INCOME1 OWNERS RENTERS
HOUSEHOLDS % HOUSEHOLDS %
less than or = 30% HAMFI (Extremely Low Income) 490 335 overpaying 320 65.3 305 91.0
severely overpaying 320 65.3 255 76.1
>30% to less than or =50% HAMFI (Very Low Income) 665 375 overpaying 540 81.2 350 93.3
severely overpaying 405 60.9 280 74.7
>50% to less than or =80% HAMFI (Low Income) 900 390
overpaying 715 79.4 300 76.9
severely overpaying 445 49.4 120 30.8
Subtotal: All lower-income households 2,055 1,100
Subtotal: All lower-income HH overpaying 1,575 76.6 955 86.8 Subtotal: All lower-income HH severely overpaying 1,170 56.9 655 59.5 >80% to less than or =100% HAMFI (Moderate Income) 530 155 overpaying 235 44.3 85 54.8
severely overpaying 100 18.9 50 32.3
>100% HAMFI (Moderate and Above Moderate Income) 4,945 735 overpaying 1,015 20.5 85 11.6
severely overpaying 315 6.4 10 1.4
Total Households 7,525 1,985
Total Households Overpaying 2,825 37.5 1,125 56.7
Total Households Severely Overpaying 1,585 21.1 715 36.0 1 HAMFI = HUD Area Median Family Income. HUD and CA HCD use different terminology/methodology to define Household Income, but they are roughly equivalent. The table above matches HCD’s terminology (“extremely low, very low, low”) commonly used in HE documents to HUD categories, where appropriate. Note that “moderate” refers to 80%- 120% of AMI, and thus is noted in two HUD categories accordingly. “Overpaying” is defined as spending >30% of gross household income on housing costs. “Severely overpaying” is defined as spending >50% of gross household income on housing costs.

Source: U.S. Dept. of Housing and Urban Development, CHAS data for Rancho Mirage, based on 2012-2016 ACS. 9-189

10 TABLE 18 MEDIAN GROSS RENT BY BEDROOMS
NO. OF BEDROOMS MEDIAN GROSS RENT*
No Bedroom Not Provided
1 bedroom $802
2 bedrooms $1,207
3 bedrooms $2,405
4 bedrooms $3,500+
5+ bedrooms $2,409
Median Gross Rent: $1,196
* estimated, renter-occupied housing units paying cash rent Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table B25031

Online listings show that current market rental rates range from approximately $1,400 to $3,200 for a 1-bedroom unit; $1,495 to $5,000 for a 2-bedroom unit; $2,100 to $15,950 for a 3- bedroom unit; and $2,850 to $25,000 for a 4+ bedroom unit (no studio rental available at the time of search).6

Affordability
Housing costs can represent a major obstacle to housing availability. TABLE 19 describes income limits for commonly used household income categories and “affordable” monthly payments for each category, according to definitions set forth in California Health and Safety Code Sections 50052.5 and 50053. The area median income (AMI) for Riverside County for a family of four for Fiscal Year 2020 is $75,300. This AMI is used to calculate, extremely low (30 percent of median), very low (50 percent of median), low (80 percent of median), and moderate (80 percent to 120 percent of median) incomes for use in state and federal subsidized housing programs.

TABLE 19 INCOME CATEGORIES AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING COSTS

INCOME CATEGORY1

INCOME LIMIT2

AFFORDABLE

MONTHLY
PAYMENT3
Extremely Low Income (0-30% of AMI) $26,200 $655
Very Low Income (30%-50% of AMI) $37,650 $941
Low Income (50%-80% of AMI) $60,250 $1,506
Moderate Income (80%-120% of AMI) $90,350 $2,259
Above Moderate Income (120%+ of AMI) $90,350+ $2,259+
1 AMI = area median income. Riverside County median income = $75,300. 2 Based on 4-person household.
3 “Affordable housing cost” for lower-income households is defined as not more than 30% of gross household income with variations. “Housing cost” includes rent or mortgage payments, utilities, property taxes, and insurance on owner-occupied housing.

Source: HCD 2020 State Income Limits

6 Zillow.com, accessed August 5, 2020.

A comparison of Rancho Mirage’s median mortgage cost
($2,666) and median gross rent ($1,196) with the affordable housing guidelines shown in the table above demonstrates that a low income household can find rentals in the City, but cannot afford to purchase in the City. Only above moderate income households can afford to buy a median-priced home. TABLE 20 shows the current affordability gap in Rancho Mirage, based on existing median housing values which shows a median income household would need an additional $783.5 per month to afford a median priced home in Rancho Mirage.

TABLE 20 MEDIAN INCOME AFFORDABILITY GAP, 2018
AMOUNT
Median household monthly income* $6,275
Housing payment equaling 30% of household income $1,882.5 Median mortgage costs** $2,666
Affordability gap*** $783.5
*Based on median income with a four-person household (Table 19). **American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table S2506 *** Difference between 30% of income and median mortgage cost

2019 Affordable Housing Projects
There are a total of 443 affordable units for lower income families and seniors in the City. The Housing Authority owns 226 of these units, and 217 are privately owned, but have received assistance from the Housing Authority or other programs. Existing projects are described below.

Projects Owned by the Housing Authority
Santa Rosa Villas
This housing project, previously a mobile home park whose units were relocated, was initially occupied in late 2006 and contains 33 single-story rental units that are two-bedroom and two-bath. A 1,620 square foot clubhouse and pool are available to residents.

Section 8 housing subsidy vouchers are accepted. Minimum base rent is $564 and monthly gross income needs to be 3 times of minimum base rent.

Parkview Villas
The housing complex offers 82 affordable rental units to seniors over 55 years of age. It is comprised of 41 one-bedroom two-bath and 41 two-bedroom two-bath units, a 1,500 square foot
clubhouse, 2 pools and 4 spas. Section 8 housing subsidy vouchers are accepted. Minimum base rents are $367 for one- bedroom and $395 for two-bedroom. Monthly gross income
requirement is 3 times of minimum base rent.

Whispering Waters
This housing project provides 29 affordable one-bedroom rental units for seniors over 55 and a 3,080 square foot clubhouse and pool. Section 8 housing subsidy vouchers are accepted. Minimum base rent is $338 and monthly gross income needs to be 3 times of minimum base rent.

San Jacinto Villas
Construction of this housing complex started in September 2009, and occupancy began in April 2011. The project is LEED Silver certified and age-restricted (55+). It offers 82 affordable units, including 53 one-bedroom one-bath, 20 two-bedroom one-and- a-half bath, and 9 two-bedroom two-bath units. There is a 1,600 square foot clubhouse, a pool and a spa. Section 8 housing subsidy vouchers are accepted. Minimum base rents are $578 for one-bedroom and $605 for two-bedroom. Monthly gross income requirement is 3 times of minimum base rent.

Privately Owned Projects
Las Colinas
84 affordable rental units are offered to seniors over 55 at this complex, both one-bedroom and two-bedroom. The project
contains 30 very low income units, 39 median income units, and 15 moderate income units. Rent ranges from $640 to $1,200 per month.

Villa Mirage
A 98-unit apartment project located at the northwest city boundary.

The project consists of project-based Section 8 certificates, and provides very low and low income households with two and three- bedroom units.

Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments
A 35-unit apartment project located in the central Highway 111 corridor. The project contains 18 low income units and 17 moderate income units of Junior 1 bed/1 bath, 1 bed/1 bath, 2 bed/1 bath, and 2 bed/2 bath floor plans.

Rehabilitation Needs
The year in which a residential unit was built is an important characteristic of the housing stock, indicating its relative condition.

In general, an average quality structure has a life of 20 to 30 years before the need for maintenance and rehabilitation becomes necessary for the structure to remain safe and sanitary.

According to the 2014-2018 American Community Survey,
9,667 (62.1%) dwelling units were built before 1990 and are now over 30 years old (Table 21). Approximately 5,870 (37.7%) of those units are over 40 years old.

TABLE 21 AGE OF HOUSING UNITS

YEAR BUILT NUMBER

OF UNITS

PERCENTAGE OF

TOTAL UNITS
Built 2014 or later 79 0.5%
Built 2010 to 2013 134 0.9%
Built 2000 to 2009 3,706 23.8%
Built 1990 to 1999 1,969 12.7%
Built 1980 to 1989 3,797 24.4%
Built 1970 to 1979 3,707 23.8%
Built 1960 to 1969 1,147 7.4%
Built 1950 to 1959 817 5.3%
Built 1940 to 1949 86 0.6%
Built 1939 or earlier 113 0.7%
Total units 15,555 100%
Total Built before 1990 9,667 62.1%
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP04

Another measure of potentially substandard housing is the number of housing units lacking adequate kitchen and plumbing facilities.

In Rancho Mirage, there are 160 units (1.7% of all units) lacking complete kitchens and 8 units (0.1% of all units) lacking plumbing facilities. More rental units have deficiencies than homeowner units.

These homes could potentially benefit from rehabilitation programs. 9-190

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11 TABLE 22 HOUSING UNITS LACKING FACILITIES
TYPE
OF

DEFICIENCY

OWNER-OCCUPIED
UNITS

RENTER-OCCUPIED

UNITS TOTAL

NO.

TOTAL
UNITS
IN
CITY
% OF
TOTAL
UNITS

NO.

TOTAL
UNITS
IN
CITY
% OF
TOTAL
UNITS

NO.
% OF
TOTAL
UNITS
Lacking
complete
kitchen
facilities
25 7,587 0.3 135 1,819 7.4 160 1.7
Lacking
plumbing
facilities
8 7,587 0.1 0 1,819 0.0 8 0.1
Source: 2014-2018 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Tables B25053 and B25049

The Code Compliance division monitors the condition of housing stock through its site inspection and citation process. The division has cited eight single-family homes for substantive rehabilitation or structural issues during the 2014-2021 period. All but one of these citations are corrected, and there is still one pending open case.

This would indicate that there are few substandard homes at any given time in the city.

The City’s Housing Authority previously funded a Home
Improvement Program, which was designed to allow restricted income households to make needed repairs to their homes, including roofing, air conditioning and heating, and similar projects. The Home Improvement Program ended in June 2014.

The Housing Authority did not have any available funding to grant lower income households financial assistance for home
improvements from 2014 to 2019.

The Housing Authority continues to maintain and rehabilitate Housing Authority-owned and operated housing units. The City conducted inspections of mobile home parks and continued to monitor the parks through its Code Compliance Division in 2017 and Building & Safety Division in 2018 to 2019. However, no City or Housing Authority funding source has been identified to assist with any corrections. All Housing Authority funding was used for the maintenance and operation of existing units provided by the City Housing Authority. The City Housing Authority continues to monitor all senior apartment complexes owned by the Housing Authority.

When health and safety concerns arise, the Authority budgets for these corrections and takes actions to remedy the concern.

Between 2014 and 2017, roofs and cabinetry had been updated to address health and safety concerns at Parkview Villas. In 2018, the Housing Authority updated cabinetry in units that became vacant.

Affordable Units at Risk
The continued availability of existing affordable housing units is important to city residents. When a project funded through local, state or federal programs becomes eligible for conversions to market rates, those units are considered “at risk” units.

Affordability restrictions for 98 multi-family rental units at the Villa Mirage project, located at 34160 Rebecca Way, were
scheduled to expire in 2015. The City worked closely with The Hampstead Group, Inc., which in 2012 agreed to purchase and upgrade the project and maintain its affordability for low income housing (allowing Section 8 rentals) for an additional 55 years, with a new expiration date of 2067. The City assisted the purchaser in acquiring multi-family housing revenue bonds to finance the project through the California statewide Community Development Authority by becoming a Program Participant.

In addition, 41 resale restrictions at the Rancho Mirage Resort, located at the southeast corner of Dinah Shore Drive and Plumley Road, have lapsed, and the City did not find any viable means to reinstate them. Analysis of current resales at Rancho Mirage Resort indicate that the market rate units in this project sell in the range of $160,000 to $255,000. The replacement of these units would therefore total between $6.6 and $10.5 million. The units are priced in a range that is affordable for a low- or moderate-income household, insofar as the mortgage cost (including insurance and taxes) would be between $880 and $1234 per month. Therefore, although the resale restrictions may have lapsed, these units will remain affordable to low or moderate income households (see TABLE 19).

There are no units at risk of losing their affordability covenants in the City during the current planning period.

Special Housing Needs
There are households with identifiable special needs, as defined by California law for which the City must plan. These households typically experience difficulty in securing decent, affordable housing under market conditions. Specific groups with special housing needs include elderly residents, the homeless, single- parent households, farmworkers, persons with disabilities, persons with HIV/AIDS, and the disabled. In terms of how these disabilities affect housing needs, many simply require modifications of existing structures such as replacing steps with ramps and improving wheelchair accessibility. Other disabled people such as those with extreme mental disabilities, require long-term residential care.

These special housing needs are provided through a variety of groups in the City and in the surrounding region.

Farmworkers
There are no farmlands in Rancho Mirage, or in the cities of Cathedral City and Palm Desert, to the west and east of Rancho Mirage, respectively. Farming occurs in the eastern Coachella Valley, at least 20 miles to the east. Between 2014 and 2018, the American Community Survey indicated there were ten residents employed in “agriculture, forestry, fishing, hunting, and mining” in Rancho Mirage, which is more likely to include residents employed at local sand and gravel operations. Farmworker housing does not constitute a significant need in Rancho Mirage. In the Coachella Valley, there are a total of approximately 8,000 farmworkers, 2,400 of which live in the City of Coachella. The balance live in the communities of Mecca and Thermal, close to the agricultural operations at which they work. The principal housing options for migrant and local seasonal farm workers are family-owned homes, private rental houses, second units, apartments, and mobile homes.

Rancho Mirage is 20 miles from the Valley’s farming industry, which would translate to a 30 to 45 minute commute for a farmworker.

There is no demand for farmworker housing in the City, but the City will continue to support housing for all people of the Coachella Valley, as shown in Policy H.6 and Program H.6.C.

Homeless
The homeless are generally mobile, often crossing from one city or county into another, and determining their location, and place of residence is difficult. The Riverside County Department of Public Social Services conducted a homeless count for all cities and some unincorporated areas in the County in 2019. The Homeless Point- In-Time (PIT) Count is a federally mandated annual count of homeless individuals used by government agencies to evaluate the extent of homelessness. The data provide a snapshot of
homelessness on a particular date and time.

The 2019 PIT Count for Riverside County determined there were 6 unsheltered homeless persons in Rancho Mirage, including individuals living on the streets, in vehicles, encampments, storage structures, or other places unfit for human habitation. It represents a 25% decrease over the 2018 PIT Count for Rancho Mirage (8 individuals). As described in TABLE 23, major characteristics of homeless people in the city are American Indian (33%), non- Hispanic (50%), male (83%), and adults over 24 years (100%).

Among all homeless individuals identified in Rancho Mirage in the survey, 67 percent had developmental disability, 50 percent had a physical disability, 33 percent were chronically homeless, and 33 percent had brain injury. Conditions of the one individual not interviewed are unknown.

TABLE 23 RANCHO MIRAGE HOMELESS CHARACTERISTICS

NUMBER

PERCENT OF
TOTAL
Race
American Indian 2 33%
Asian 0 0%
Black 1 17%
Native Hawaiian 0 0%
White 1 17%
Multiple Races 1 17%
Unknown Race 1 17%
Ethnicity
Hispanic 1 17%
Non-Hispanic 3 50%
Unknown Ethnicity 2 33%
Gender
Male 5 83%
Female 1 17%
Age
Adults (>24 yrs.) 6 100%
TOTAL HOMELESS INDIVIDUALS = 6
Source: 2019 Riverside County Homeless Point-In-Time Count and Survey Report, County of Riverside Department of Public Social Services, page 63.

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12 TABLE 24 HOMELESS SUBPOPULATIONS
SUBPOPULATION NUMBER1

PERCENT OF

TOTAL HOMELESS

INDIVIDUALS
Veterans 1 17%
Chronically Homeless 2 33%
Substance Abuse 0 0%
PTSD 1 17%
Mental Health Conditions 0 0%
Physical Disability 3 50%
Developmental Disability 4 67%
Brain Injury 2 33%
Victim of Domestic Violence 1 17%
AIDS or HIV 0 0%
Jail 0 0%
1 Results of interviews with 5 homeless individuals and observation of 1 individual.

The individual not interviewed is not included in any of the subpopulation (no subpopulation assumed).

Source: 2019 Riverside County Homeless Point-In-Time Count and Survey Report, County of Riverside Department of Public Social Services, page 63.

A number of organizations provide services to the homeless throughout the Coachella Valley. Desert Horizon and Desert Vista permanent supportive housing is a program managed by Jewish Family Service of San Diego with 18 and 40 beds, respectively.

Supportive services, including living skills, budgeting instruction, case management, employment assistance, food distributions, advocacy, and community referrals and access to benefits, are provided.

Martha’s Village and Kitchen in Indio offers emergency
shelter/housing, food services, a career and education center, children’s services, health care, case management, and recovery services to residents and emergency assistance to non-residents.

Programs include daily meals based on FDA-published guidelines, clothing distribution, food boxes, public showers, rental/utility assistance, general computer classes, and English Language instruction. The holiday program provides Christmas dinner, baskets, and toys to low income families/individuals. Martha’s Village and Kitchen is a two-story 42,000-sq. ft. structure containing dining facilities, classrooms, a medical clinic, and early childhood center. The upstairs family section consists of 32 rooms with 23 for families, five rooms for single men, and four rooms for

7 “The Path Forward: Recommendations to Advance an End to Homelessness in the Coachella Valley,” Barbara Poppe and Associates, November 27, 2018, page 21.
single women. The Residential Facility offers 120 beds: 95 beds for homeless families with children, and 25 beds for homeless single adult men and women.

The Coachella Valley Rescue Mission in Indio provides shelter and hot meals, as well as support for homeless individuals and families.

It currently shelters 150+ men, women, and children and offers emergency shelter to an additional 150+ individuals each night.

Additional services include job training, counseling and educational services, housing assistance, and case management.

A recent analysis of Coachella Valley homelessness found that emergency shelter and transitional housing are not operating at full capacity; the occupancy rate was 79% in 2018 despite high rates of unsheltered single adults.7 Lower occupancy may be partially because some beds are reserved for domestic violence victims and youth rather than the general population.

The City is also participating in the Coachella Valley Association of Governments’ (CVAG) Homeless Committee.

Prior to its closure, the City annually contributed funding to Roy’s Desert Resource Center in the western Coachella Valley, which was established by CVAG in December 2009 and provided
emergency and transitional shelter to 90 homeless individuals at a time, including families and single adults, for a maximum of 90 days. After the closure of Roy’s Desert Resource Center emergency homeless shelter in 2017, there was a need for a homeless shelter or navigation center in the western Coachella Valley. CVAG contracted with Path of Life Ministries to operate its Coachella Valley Housing First program that placed people in permanent housing before addressing issues such as joblessness or behavioral health. Program results were positive, with 81% of the 242 people who exited the program in the first year able to find permanent housing, and all participants who exited the program more than doubling their monthly incomes.8 In late 2019, CVAG initiated an effort to advance the goals of CV Housing First through a 8 “CV Housing First Program Evaluation: Examining the Clients Served in the First Year: July 2017 to June 2018,” Health Assessment and Research for Communities, September 2018, page 55.
collaborative approach called the Coachella Valley
Homelessness Engagement & Action Response Team
(CVHEART).9 The program is expected to establish a formal structure for regional homelessness policies and programs, identify funding opportunities for future projects, and expand multi-agency cooperation and participation. In addition to its own efforts to end homelessness, the city’s membership in CVAG will assure its continued participation in regional efforts.

The City contributes annually to existing homeless facilities and charitable organizations in the Valley (see complete list in TABLE 25). In Fiscal Year 2019/20 and 2020/21, the homeless funding budgeted for shelter/services are $160,000 and $100,000, respectively. These funds included a broad range of contributions, 9 “CV Heart: A Collaborative and Regional Approach to Homelessness in Coachella Valley,” Greg Rodriguez, January 2020.
including funds to Coachella Valley Rescue Missions and Path of Life Ministries for programs and activities which help alleviate homelessness problems in the Coachella Valley. The funds the City allocates vary, depending on requests made and budgetary limitations.

Homeless shelters are permitted in the Public (institutional) zone.

Supportive and transitional housing with more than six occupants are allowed in the Residential High Density (R-H) zone with conditional use permits, consistent with similar uses in that zone, such as assisted living and residential care facilities. Single-room occupancy units can be approved in different forms and in numerous zones, including those that permit accessory and junior accessory dwelling units, guest/employee quarters, assisted living facilities, hotels, and senior and congregate facilities.

TABLE 25 COACHELLA VALLEY HOMELESS SHELTER RESOURCES

SHELTER NAME TYPE OF SHELTER CITY CLIENTELE OR NEEDS
SERVED
NUMBER
OF BEDS 1
Martha’s Village and Kitchen Emergency Indio General 120 Shelter From The Storm Emergency Palm Desert Domestic Violence 20 County of Riverside, Desert
Healthcare District and Foundation1
Emergency
(seasonal)
Cathedral City, Palm
Springs, Desert Hot
Springs
General 90 (30 in
each city)
Operation Safe House Emergency
/Transitional Thousand Palms Transitional: youth, young adults 20/15
Path of Life Ministries Inc. Emergency/ Rapid
Rehousing
Undisclosed –
Coachella Valley General 12/2
Coachella Valley Rescue Mission Emergency/ Rapid
Rehousing Indio families with children,
individuals 300/18
Desert AIDS Project Permanent Palm Springs HIV/AIDS 80
Desert Horizon Permanent Desert Hot Springs Jewish Family Services 18 Desert Vista Permanent Palm Springs Jewish Family Services 40 Desert Vista Permanent Supportive
Housing Expansion (new in 2018) Permanent Palm Springs Disabled Men and Women 35
Riverside University Health System –
Behavioral Health Permanent Cathedral City Behavioral Health 25 Episcopal Community Services Permanent Scattered Site – Coachella Valley
Persons with Disabilities
and Chronically Homeless 40
Shelter Plus Care TBRA Permanent Indio Persons with Disabilities/ Mentally Ill 23
Source: “The Path Forward: Recommendations to Advance an End to Homelessness in the Coachella Valley,” Barbara Poppe and Associates, November 27, 2018, Appendix 3.
1 dhcd.org.
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13 AB 101 requires that Low-Barrier Navigation Centers (LBNC) be a by-right use in areas zoned for mixed-use and nonresidential zoning districts permitting multifamily uses. LBNC provide temporary room and board with limited barriers to entry while case managers work to connect homeless individuals and families to income, public benefits, health services, permanent housing, or other shelter.to include Low-Barrier Navigation Center as defined by state law. Program H 2.B has been provided to require that the Zoning Ordinance be amended to meet this requirement.

Seniors
There were 9,545 persons over the age of 65 in Rancho Mirage in 2018 (ACS). Of the total of 5,979 senior occupied housing units in Rancho Mirage, 5,037 are owner occupied, while 942 are renter occupied. With more than half (52.8%) of Rancho Mirage’s population over 65 according to the 2014-2018 American
Community Survey, the special housing needs of seniors are an important concern in Rancho Mirage. This is especially so since many retired persons are likely to be on fixed incomes, at greater risk of housing overpayment. In addition, seniors typically have special needs related to housing construction and location. They often require ramps, handrails, and lower cupboards and counters to allow greater access and mobility. Because of limited mobility, the elderly also typically need access to public facilities, such as medical and shopping, and to public transit facilities.

TABLE 26 SENIOR HOUSEHOLDS BY TENURE

HOUSEHOLDER AGE OWNER-OCCUPIED RENTER-OCCUPIED
HOUSE-
HOLDS
% HOUSE-
HOLDS
%
Non-Senior Households
Under 65 years 2,550 33.6% 877 48.2%
Senior Households
65 to 74 years 2,315 30.5% 191 10.5%
75 to 84 years 1,931 25.5% 408 22.4%
85 years and over 791 10.4% 343 18.9%
Subtotal, Senior
Households
5,037 66.4% 942 51.8%
Total Households 7,587 100% 1,819 100%
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table B25007

Mature citizens also may need special security devices for their homes to allow greater self-protection. In many situations, seniors prefer to stay in their own dwellings rather than relocate to a retirement community, and may require extra assistance with home repairs and manual house/yard work. Every reasonable effort should be made to allow them to maintain their dignity, self-respect, and quality of life.

The 2014-2018 American Community Survey indicates 5,985 households in Rancho Mirage receive Social Security. The mean Social Security income for these households is $23,047, which is below the definition of very low income. The 2014-2018 ACS data also show 2,936 households receive retirement income. The mean retirement income of these households is $39,571.

There are 310 age-restricted affordable housing units in Rancho Mirage, located in the San Jacinto Villas, Parkview Villas, Santa Rosa Villas, Las Colinas, and Whispering Waters projects. These units are available to extremely low, very low, low, and moderate- income seniors.

The elderly also may require assisted living or nursing care facilities, as they age and are no longer able to care for themselves independently. Numerous senior support services are provided by various organizations, including those listed in TABLE 27. There are a number of privately operated facilities in Rancho Mirage available for seniors, including the following:

› Missions Hills Senior Living (formerly Monarch at Rancho Mirage), 142 beds, including an Alzheimer’s patient
capability
› Brookdale Mirage Inn, 22 memory care apartment units and 107 assisted living apartment units
› Brookdale Rancho Mirage (formerly Emeritus at Rancho
Mirage), 26 dementia care beds, 109 assisted living units, and 45 skilled nursing beds
› Country Villa Rancho Mirage Health Care, 99 nursing home beds
› Vista Cove at Rancho Mirage, 56 beds, including dementia and Alzheimer’s patient capabilities; long-term care, respite care and Day Break program (full- and half-days available) › Brentwood of Rancho Mirage II, an assisted living facility serving up to 6 residents. It is a Residential Care Facility for the Elderly (RCFE)
› Rancho Mirage Terrace, 100 assisted and independent living beds, 24 memory care (dementia/Alzheimer) beds
› Morning Star II, 6 assisted living beds
› Absolute Desert Care, 6 assisted living beds
› Casa Royale Manor, 6 assisted living beds

TABLE 27 SENIOR RESOURCES

ORGANIZATION SERVICES PROVIDED
Braille Institute Coachella Valley
Neighborhood Center
Rehabilitation, enrichment classes, in-
home support for the visually
impaired
Cathedral City Senior Center
Health/fitness programs, social
events, classes, homebound
outreach, food distribution
Eisenhower Memory Care
Center
Adult day center for neuro-cognitive
impairments
FIND Food Bank Food distribution
Hidden Harvest Food distribution
Jewish Family Services of the
Desert
Advocacy, case management
services
Riverside County Office on Aging
Medical case management,
counseling, transportation assistance,
meals
Salvation Army Food distribution, social events,
community programs
Senior Advocates of the Desert
Public benefits and social services
assistance, emergency financial
assistance
SunLine Transit Agency
For seniors and disabled residents:

Half-Fare Program, Taxi Voucher
Program, SunDial paratransit service,
bus travel training

Persons with Disabilities
The 2014-2018 American Community Survey identified 3,346 persons in Rancho Mirage with disabilities, of which 2,655 were 65 years of age or older. The high percentage of seniors living in Rancho Mirage results in a higher percentage of disabled persons, and a need to focus on accessible housing to accommodate their needs.

The ADA requires that all new, multi-family and age-restricted construction include a percentage of units accessible to the disabled. Enforcing compliance with ADA standards is the responsibility of the City’s Building Division. The City has no requirements that would constrain the development of housing for disabled persons, whether in a group setting, apartment or condominium project, or a single-family home. This type of housing is not considered differently than housing for any other member of the community.

TABLE 28 DISABILITIES BY AGE AND TYPE

DISABILITIES BY

AGE AND TYPE

NUMBER OF

PERSONS

PERCENT OF
TOTAL
DISABILITIES1
Under Age 18 years
With a hearing difficulty 25 0.4
With a vision difficulty 11 0.2
With a cognitive difficulty 38 0.6
With an ambulatory difficulty 11 0.2
With a self-care difficulty 20 0.3
With an independent living
difficulty
* *
Subtotal 105 1.7
Age 18 to 64 years
With a hearing difficulty 51 0.8
With a vision difficulty 63 1.0
With a cognitive difficulty 266 4.2
With an ambulatory difficulty 315 5.0
With a self-care difficulty 113 1.8
With an independent living
difficulty
219 3.5
Subtotal 1,027 16.3
Age 65 years and over
With a hearing difficulty 1,341 21.2
With a vision difficulty 481 7.6
With a cognitive difficulty 595 9.4
With an ambulatory difficulty 1,458 23.1
With a self-care difficulty 515 8.2
With an independent living
difficulty
793 12.6
Subtotal 5,183 82.1
Total 6,315 100.0
1 differences due to rounding
* data not provided
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table S1810
9-193

14 The Zoning Ordinance defines family consistently with the federal definition, as one or more individuals in a household. This means there are no special requirements for concentration of residential care facilities or constraints on housing for persons with disabilities.

There are also no parking requirements other than those required for any project for any and all housing types that serve persons with disabilities.

Ramps, stairs, and similar structures necessary for accessibility are allowed by right in the Zoning Ordinance. No variance or conditional use permit is required, and is not expected to be in the future.

Persons with Developmental Disabilities
Section 4512 of the Welfare and Institutions Code defines a developmental disability as “a disability that originates before an individual becomes 18 years old, continues or can be expected to continue indefinitely, and constitutes a substantial disability for that individual.” The definition includes severe and chronic disabilities, including mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, and other disabling conditions that are closely related to mental retardation or require treatment similar to that required for individuals with mental retardation. It does not include other handicapping conditions that are solely physical in nature.

The California Department of Developmental Services (DDS) provides services for developmentally disabled individuals through state-operated developmental centers and community facilities. It contracts with the Inland Regional Center (IRC) to provide and coordinate local services for eligible residents in Riverside County, including those in Rancho Mirage. IRC’s services also include assessment, referrals, counseling, outreach, advocacy, and training. IRC currently (2021) serves 29 clients who are Rancho Mirage residents.

IRC uses person-centered planning when developing a client’s Individual Program Plan (IPP). The IPP outlines the goals developed by the client and their support team, as well as the services and support they will receive to help meet those goals. Many of the services/supports listed in the IPP are funded by Inland Regional Center. However, services and supports may also be provided by other agencies such as the Social Security Administration, school districts, county agencies, etc.

Individuals with developmental disabilities may require housing that is close to public transportation, medical care, and public services.

Housing affordability and accessibility of the home and surroundings also require consideration. Housing options can range from traditional housing and independent living, to supervised group living quarters, to institutional facilities that provide onsite medical care and other services.

The following local and regional housing facilities are provided for the developmentally disabled population in the Coachella Valley.

Canyon Springs in Cathedral City is a State developmental center operated by DDS for individuals with intellectual and
developmental disabilities. Referrals for admission are made by IRC. Services include residential care, treatment, and job training for up to 55 adults. The treatment program at Canyon Springs is designed to provide its residents with work/job training including formal educational opportunities and new home life and living skills. Each person is assessed and participates in developing and carrying out an IPP. Residents have opportunities to participate in a variety of integrated activities in natural environments at home, at work, and in the community.

Casa San Miguel de Allende in Cathedral City includes 48 apartments for developmentally and physically disabled
individuals.

Mountain View Apartments in Cathedral City are restricted to seniors age 62+ or disabled individuals (all ground level units).

The Braille Institute Coachella Valley Neighborhood Center, formerly in Rancho Mirage, opened in 2020 in Palm Desert and provides low vision rehabilitation, daily living skills, enrichment classes, and in-home support for the visually impaired.

Angel View, a non-profit organization based in Desert Hot Springs, operates 19 six-bed group homes for children and young adults with developmental and physical disabilities. The homes provide 24-hour nursing and/or attendant care and can accommodate 100+ individuals at a time. There are 16 homes in the Coachella Valley, including 12 in Desert Hot Springs, three in Palm Springs, and one in Thousand Palms.

Additional support is provided by Desert Arc, based in Palm Desert, which provides vocational training, employment, adult day care, independence training, and case management services for adults with developmental disabilities in the Coachella Valley and Morongo Basin. Most clients are referred by the Inland Regional Center. Desert Arc operates on-site businesses at its Palm Desert campus, a smaller workshop facility in Yucca Valley, and a recycling center in Indio. In 2019, 695 clients were enrolled in at least one program; nine were Rancho Mirage residents.

The City complies with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and California Building Code to provide accessible and “barrier free” units for disabled residents, as necessary.

Residential care homes for up to six clients with state licensing are permitted in all residential zones: HR, R-E, R-L-2, R-L3, R-M, R-H, and MHP.

The City’s Zoning standards do not currently provide for reasonable accommodation. Program H1.C includes a
requirement to update the Code.

HIV/AIDS Patients
A Riverside University Health System Public Health study (2018) indicates Rancho Mirage’s HIV/AIDS population (2017) was approximately 2,147. The Desert AIDS Project (DAP), located in Palm Springs, is the Coachella Valley’s only facility dedicated to the treatment of HIV-positive and AIDS patients. Many of these patients live on fixed incomes, and particular issues of concern include finding affordable housing and transportation to medical services. The study also showed that from 2009 through 2018, a total of 34.9% of all HIV cases diagnosed in eastern Riverside County are 50 years or older. While 42.5% of all people living with HIV in east Riverside County are 60 or older, there are a number of patients under the age 50 who, because of their age, are not eligible for senior housing.

Vista Sunrise in Palm Springs is an apartment building with eighty affordable units dedicated to persons living with HIV/AIDS, which also provides housing for persons living with HIV/AIDS who are also homeless or at-risk of homelessness. It offers affordable studio and 1-bedroom apartments to qualified applicants and is the only development of its kind in the Coachella Valley. DAP and the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition are planning Vista Sunrise II, also on the DAP campus, which will provide 61 very low and low income supportive housing units for at risk individuals. The project is expected to be constructed in 2022-2023.

Large Families
There were 153 households in Rancho Mirage with five or more members in 2018, according to the American Community Survey.

Of these larger households, 106 were in owner-occupied housing, and 47 were in renter-occupied housing. According to ACS, 38 of the large households in Rancho Mirage had incomes below the poverty level in 2018.

Compared to 2010 Census data figures, there was a 48 percent decrease in the number of large family households (293
households in 2010 versus 153 households in 2018).

TABLE 29 shows that there are 1,653 housing units in Rancho Mirage with four or more bedrooms, 326 of which have five or more bedrooms. Despite the number of dwelling units with four or more bedrooms in the current housing stock, 141 units (1.5% of all units citywide) are overcrowded, and 88 (62.4%) of them are rental units. There are 326 units with 5 or more bedrooms (3.5% of total units citywide), and only 54 of them are rental units, so there may be a need for additional units with 5 or more bedrooms affordable to large families, particularly rental units. To further accommodate large families, in 2012 the City adopted
amendments to the Section 19 Specific Plan that require projects in Section 19 to include at least one percent of the units with four or more bedrooms.
9-194

Housing Element

15 TABLE 29 TOTAL NUMBER OF HOUSING UNITS

BY BEDROOM SIZE AND BY TENURE

NO. OF

BEDROOMS

OWNER-OCCUPIED
UNITS

RENTER-OCCUPIED
UNITS

TOTAL-OCCUPIED
UNITS
NO. % NO. % NO. %
0 bedrooms 25 0.3 88 4.8 113 1.2
1 bedroom 249 3.3 430 23.6 679 7.2
2 bedrooms 1,917 25.3 840 46.2 2,757 29.3
3 bedrooms 3,908 51.5 296 16.3 4,204 44.7
4 bedrooms 1,216 16.0 111 6.1 1,327 14.1
5+ bedrooms 272 3.6 54 3.0 326 3.5

Total 7,587 100.0% 1,819 100.0% 9,406 100.0%
Source: 2014-2018 American Community Survey 5-Year Estimates, Table B25042

Table 30 Household Size by Tenure

NUMBER OF

PERSONS IN

HOUSEHOLD

OWNER-OCCUPIED RENTER-OCCUPIED
HOUSE-
HOLDS

PERCENT
OF TOTAL1
HOUSE-
HOLDS
% OF
TOTAL2
One to Four 7,481 98.6 1,772 97.4
Five 66 0.9 37 2.0
Six 13 0.2 0 0.0
Seven or More 27 0.4 10 0.5
Total
Households
with 5+ Pers.
106 1.4 47 2.6
Total Households 7,587 100.0 1,819 100.0
1,2 differences due to rounding
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table B25009

Large families, therefore, have housing opportunities to meet their needs in Rancho Mirage, and overcrowding does not appear to be problematic. As previously shown in TABLE 15, less than one percent of all occupied units in Rancho Mirage are considered overcrowded.

Single-Parent Families and Female-Headed
Households
According to the 2014-2018 American Community Survey, there are 102 single-parent households with children in Rancho Mirage, of which 32 consist of a male head of household and 70 of a female head of household. The ACS further estimated that 35 of these female-headed households with children have incomes below poverty level. Male-headed families with children having incomes below poverty level numbered 10.

10 Per HUD, the Extremely Low Income (ELI) income limit is the greater of either: 1) 60% of Very Low Income limit ($37,650), which equals

Compared to 2010 Census data, there has been a 62.4 percent decrease in the number of single-parent households with children (271 households in 2010 versus 102 households in 2018). The number of female- and male-headed households both decreased significantly by more than 60% (87 male-headed and 184 female- headed households in 2010 versus 32 male-headed and 70
female-headed households in 2018).

The 2014-2018 ACS indicates there are 260 children less than 18 years of age in Rancho Mirage living in families whose incomes are below the poverty level. Of these, 98 live in single female- headed households, and 11 live in single male-headed
households.

Single-parent families, particularly those with a female head of household, can experience lower incomes, higher living expenses, higher poverty rates, and lower rates of homeownership. Primary housing needs include affordability and units of sufficient size, and the availability of and proximity to childcare and employment. The City’s continuing efforts to maintain affordability restrictions on affordable housing units and its provision of a land use plan that facilitates multi-family housing in close proximity to childcare facilities and employment, will benefit this population. Programs that assist with homeownership will also be advantageous.

$22,590, or 2) poverty guideline established by Dept. of Health and Human Services (HHS), which equals $26,200.

TABLE 31 SINGLE-PARENT

HOUSEHOLD CHARACTERISTICS
HOUSEHOLD TYPE NO. OF

HOUSEHOLDS
% OF
TOTAL
Total households 9,406 100
Male-headed households 118 1.3
With own children under 18 32 0.3
Female-headed households 318 3.4
With own children under 18 70 0.7
Total Families, Income in the Past 12
Months Below Poverty Level
294 100
Male Householders, Income in the
Past 12 Months Below Poverty Level
40 13.6
Female Householders, Income in the
Past 12 Months Below Poverty Level
37 12.6
Source: American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year Estimates, Table DP02; American Community Survey 2014-2018 5-Year
Estimates, Table B17010

Extremely Low-Income Households
Extremely low-income (ELI) households are a subset of the very low-income household category and defined by HCD as those with incomes less than 30% of the area median income (AMI). The AMI for a 4-person household in Riverside County is $75,300. ELI household incomes are defined by HCD and HUD as those
earning less than $26,200.10 Many ELI households receive public assistance, such as Social Security, and have a variety of housing needs.

Existing Needs
According to the latest CHAS data, 825 households (8.7% of total households) in Rancho Mirage are considered extremely low- income. Most (59%) ELI households are owners and
approximately 77% experience housing problems, including incomplete kitchen and plumbing facilities, overcrowding, and a cost burden greater than 30% of income (overpayment). Nearly 76% are in overpayment situations, and 69.7% are in severe overpayment situations in which housing costs are greater than 50% of household income.

Projected Needs
To calculate projected housing needs, the City assumed 50% of its very low-income regional housing need assessment (RHNA) are extremely low-income households. From its very low income need of 429 units, the City has a projected need for 215 units for extremely low-income households.

Housing types that are available and suitable for ELI households include: rent-restricted affordable units, housing with supportive services, single-room occupancy units, shared housing, housing with rent subsidies (vouchers), etc. See discussion under Homeless for Zoning Ordinance amendments that support these housing types.

Many of the City’s existing and proposed very low-income rental projects provide housing affordable to extremely low-income individuals, and couples. Extremely low-income households are also eligible to receive rental assistance through the County of Riverside Housing Authority’s Section 8 voucher program. Small ELI households may also find an affordable housing option in Single Room Occupancy (SRO) hotels, second units, accessory dwelling units and junior accessory dwelling units and guest houses. Second units and guest houses/employee quarters may be important resources for seniors on a fixed-income, single-parents, disabled persons, college students, and low-wage earning workers.

TABLE 32 HOUSING PROBLEMS FOR EXTREMELY

LOW-INCOME HOUSEHOLDS

OWNERS RENTERS TOTAL
Total Number of ELI Households 490 335 825
Percent with any housing
problems*

65.3% 94.0% 77.0%
Percent with Cost Burden >30%
of income

65.3% 91.0% 75.8%
Percent with Cost Burden >50%
of income

65.3% 76.1% 69.7%
Total Number of Households 7,525 1,985 9,510
* housing problems include incomplete kitchen facilities, incomplete plumbing facilities, more than 1 person per room (overcrowding), and cost burden greater than 30% of income.

Source: U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, CHAS, based on the 2012-2016 ACS. 9-195

16 Current Housing Statistics
Energy Conservation
The desert environment of the Coachella Valley results in warm winters, and very hot summers. Although residents in Rancho Mirage may have lower than average heating costs in the winter, they can expect higher than average cooling costs in the summer.

The costs of air conditioning can have a significant impact on a household’s summer budget, particularly those with limited or fixed incomes.

The Building Division enforces the requirements of Title 24 of the Uniform Building Code, which sets standards for energy efficiency in all types of development. In addition, the City’s Housing Authority has installed solar hot water systems at the Parkview Villas complex as a cost saving and energy efficiency measure.

The City participated in the regional Green for Life program implemented by CVAG, and has promoted energy efficient and net zero building techniques through that program for individuals undertaking major remodels and new home construction. The Housing Authority also considers the implementation of green building techniques for its affordable housing projects, and development by private parties. San Jacinto Villas is LEED Silver certified. The Section19 Specific Plan, which includes up to 1,899 dwelling units, includes incentives for energy efficient development, and green building guidelines. In all projects, passive solar design and water efficiency are considered in the planning stages, to assure that projects are developed as efficiently as possible. The City implements the following programs.

General Conservation
Rancho Mirage has approved at least six LEED certified buildings, including office buildings, apartment buildings, and the first LEED certified retail commercial center to be built in the Coachella Valley. Rancho Mirage’s "5 Conservation + Open Space" Element promotes the conservation, efficient use and thoughtful management of energy sources and mineral deposits as well as the long-term viability of limited and non-renewable resources.

Rancho Mirage’s Section 19 Specific Plan includes Green Builder guidelines and development incentives.

The City started the Rancho Mirage Energy Authority (RMEA), a community choice aggregation program, to provide cost-
competitive electricity and cleaner energy choices. RMEA started providing power in 2018 to City residents and businesses.

Customers are automatically enrolled into RMEA’s 5% discount on electricity and have the options to upgrade to Premium Renewable Choice, or Solar Choice, or opt out of RMEA. RMEA also offers additional benefits to customers with solar systems compared to Southern California Edison.

The City features environmental information and recycling opportunities in its quarterly newsletter, Rancho Mirage INSIDER.

Approximately 57 restaurants participate in the City’s food waste program, which diverts tonnage from landfills and is recycled into agricultural products. Due to the pandemic in 2020, only 16 restaurants remain in the program. The City has maintained contact with restaurants to encourage re-commitment to the program.

The City operates a comprehensive recycling program that encourages and supports the recycling of household, business, construction, hazardous, and green waste. Ordinance No.918 requires all construction and demolition sites to recycle all recyclable materials onsite. The City provides a free residential Hazardous Household Waste (HHW) service to all residents.

Residents can call and make an appointment to dispose of any HHW. The HHW is properly collected and disposed of by a licensed service company.

The City also contributes to, and participates in, the Coachella Valley Association of Government’s (CVAG) used motor oil and filter collection and recycling program.

Energy Conservation at City Facilities
Rancho Mirage budgets funding annually for energy conservation consultants in order to better conserve electricity. Consultants constantly monitor and adjust, via the internet, both City Hall and Library HVAC (heating/ventilating/air conditioning) systems in order to save energy and operate efficiently. All City facilities have been upgraded with energy efficient lighting and upgrades to building HVAC equipment and software.

Rancho Mirage promotes energy efficiency and conservation in all areas of community development, including transportation, development planning, and public and private sector construction and operation, as well as in the full range of residential and non- residential projects.

Rancho Mirage’s use of 26-watt fluorescent lighting fixtures as opposed to 150-watt incandescent bulbs in citywide landscaping lighting has reduced energy consumption. The City currently uses fluorescent lighting in all of its facilities, and has begun updating lighting at City Hall and the Public Works Department yard to LEDs to further reduce energy consumption.

The City supports public and private efforts to develop and operate alternative systems of solar and electric production that take advantage of local renewable resources. Rancho Mirage
evaluates all new proposed projects for solar protection in order to reduce heat gain and promote energy conservation (overhangs on window and doors).

Rancho Mirage was the first city in the Coachella Valley to be a Community Energy Efficiency Program jurisdiction.

Rancho Mirage has adopted the voluntary Green Building
Program, which allows home and commercial building owners to build or remodel their properties 15 percent above Title 24 requirements. The Program, adopted in 2012, is being
implemented as part of the CVAG Green For Life project.

Water Conservation
The City encourages residents and businesses to participate in water saving programs offered by CVWD at low or no cost. For example, residents are eligible to get free smart weather-based irrigation controllers offered by the CVWD.

The City waives fees for turf conversion to desert-friendly landscaping and continues to support rebate programs
implemented by CVWD to implement a turf replacement program that offers rebates to residential, and commercial property owners, and Home Owners Associations (HOA) for converting turf to TABLE 33 RACIAL/ETHNIC DISTRIBUTION OF POPULATION BELOW POVERTY LEVEL IN THE PAST 12 MONTHS CENSUS
TRACT1

LOCATION/

JURISDICTION

PERCENT
BELOW

POVERTY
LEVEL2
POPULATION BELOW POVERTY LEVEL3
WHITE
ALONE

BLACK OR

AFRICAN

AMERICAN
ALONE

AMERICAN

INDIAN AND
ALASKA
NATIVE
ALONE
ASIANS
ALONE
SOME
OTHER
RACE
ALONE
TWO OR
MORE
RACES

HISPANIC

OR LATINO
ORIGIN
WHITE

ALONE, NOT

HISPANIC OR
LATINO
451.03 Hwy 111 corridor
and south

11. 8 318 15 20 36 30 0 43 305
449.18 North of Hwy 111,
on the east

11. 4 277 14 0 0 13 24 13 277
449.17 North of Hwy 111,
central

13.2 633 0 30 0 0 0 194 439
9406 Northern portion of
Rancho Mirage ,
Tribal land and
Cathedral City
6 167 5 6 6 7 0 31 143
449.21 Northeast, and
commercial land in
Palm Desert

6.1 136 0 0 9 0 3 16 120
City of Rancho Mirage 11. 6 1841 49 50 48 74 31 501 1414 1Note that census tracts do not correspond to City limits. Census tracts covering the bulk of City area are listed to provide representative data. 2,3 Data based on estimate of population for whom poverty status is determined in the past 12 months. Population below poverty level for Native Hawaiian and Other Pacific Islander Alone was zero in each census tract shown above and the entire City.

Source: American Community Survey 2015-2019 5-Year Estimates. 9-196

Housing Element

17 water-efficient desert landscaping. The Residential Landscape Rebate incentive pays $2 per square foot of turf removed up to a maximum of 10,000 square feet, which equates to a maximum of $20,000 for new landscape conversion projects. The HOA and Commercial Landscape Rebate Program pays an incentive of $2 per square foot of turf removed up to a maximum of 25,000 square feet, which equates to a maximum of $50,000 for new landscape conversion projects. All proposed projects submitted to the City are reviewed for potential adverse effects on water quality. (Title 17 of the Municipal Code).

Fair Housing Assessment
The City has completed an assessment of how it has and will continue to affirmatively Promote fair housing, consistent with the requirements of AB 686. It is provided in the Appendix of this Element, and has been used throughout this document to assess constraints, determine actions necessary, and provide policies and programs to support fair housing in the City.

The City is committed to continued implementation of fair housing practices. The inventory of land suitable and available for future housing development includes parcels that are distributed throughout the City to help foster integrated living patterns (see TABLE 44). A schedule of policies and programs for continuing these efforts through the 2021-2029 planning period is provided in the Housing Goals, Policies and Programs section below.

Future Housing Needs
The RHNA generated by the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG), which is responsible for developing Housing Need Allocations for all counties and cities in its area, is presented in TABLE 34 for the 2022 to 2029 planning period.

TABLE 34 REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ALLOCATION,
2022 TO 2029

INCOME CATEGORY NUMBER OF UNITS
Extremely low income 215
Very low income 215
Low income 318
Moderate income 328
Above moderate income 670
TOTAL 1,746
Note that the extremely low and very low income categories are 50% each of the 429 units assigned for the very low category Source: SCAG

For the 2022 to 2029 planning period, the City has been assigned 1,746 new housing units. Of these, 670 are to be affordable to households with incomes in excess of 120 percent of the median.

It is assumed that the private market will provide these higher priced units without assistance from the public sector. However, 1,076 units are required for moderate and lower income households, which typically require financial assistance from the public sector for construction and maintenance, since units must be available at below market rates. There are several programs in place to help fund such projects. The lands on which affordable housing can be located in Rancho Mirage, and the programs in place to fund projects in the current planning period, are detailed below, under “Strategy for Meeting Affordable Housing Need. “
Approximately 540 single-family homes were constructed in Rancho Mirage from January 2014 to December 2019, an
average of 90 units per year. Ultimately, market conditions will determine the pace of residential construction in Rancho Mirage.

The 2020 pandemic will undoubtedly impact housing starts and the development of housing in the City. Conversely, should financial assistance programs from State and Federal sources expand, affordable housing projects could see construction starts in the City. The status of the economy will play an important role in the City’s ability to generate new housing units in all income categories.

Quantified Objectives
On average, the City has had fewer than 5 demolitions annually.

The city’s population is expected to slowly grow during the planning period, resulting in an expected need primarily in new housing, rather than in preservation or rehabilitation. Existing projects, particularly those with affordability restrictions, will need maintenance and improvement to remain in good condition. Since the ending of the Home Improvement Program in 2014, the Housing Authority has assigned funds to help with rehabilitation of older units in the Authority-owned projects and will reinstate the program when funding becomes available.

The expected needs, by income category, for the period from 2021-2029 are provided in TABLE 35.

TABLE 35 QUANTIFIED OBJECTIVES MATRIX, 2021 TO 2029

INCOME CATEGORY
EXTR.

LOW
VERY
LOW
LOW MOD. HIGH TOTAL
New
Construction 215 215 318 328 670 1,746
Rehabilitation 5 5 10 20
Conservation 41 41

Constraints to the Development of Housing
Governmental and non-governmental constraints can affect the supply of housing for all income levels. Such constraints may affect the number of units built, the size and suitability of the unit, and the price of the unit. Although some constraints are beyond the control of local governments, others may be reduced or eliminated at the discretion of the local government. A number of potential constraints are discussed below.

Governmental Constraints
All cities impose requirements on development. These standards can become costly and can extend the amount of time required to plan and complete a project. This section examines whether Rancho Mirage’s governmental requirements are a constraint on the provision of affordable housing.

Land Use Controls
The Land Use Element of the General Plan designates specific areas for different types of development and establishes density ranges for residential development. Zoning, which must be consistent with the General Plan, establishes more specific development standards, allowable uses, and limitations. TABLE 36 describes the City’s General Plan land use designations, including density ranges. In addition to General Plan designations, the City is implementing the Section 19 Specific Plan that establishes development standards and guidelines for 270 acres located north of Dinah Shore Drive. The Specific Plan, which acts as both the General Plan and Zoning Ordinance for the area, establishes land use designations for residential land uses which are more intense than currently in other areas of Rancho Mirage. These land use designations are also included in

TABLE 36. In 2019, the City began to prepare an update to its Highway 111 Specific Plan. The update of the plan will
conditionally allow up to 34 units per acre with affordable housing overlay in the Thunder Road area.

TABLE 36 RESIDENTIAL LAND USE CATEGORIES

DESIGNATION MAX DENSITY PURPOSE
R-L-2 Very
low-density
2 du/ac* Single- family development
typically on about 0.5-acre
individual lots, planned
residential developments (PRD)
R-L-3 Low
density
3 du/ac Moderately low-density
single-family development
and PRDs
R-M Medium
density
4 du/ac Single-family subdivisions and
PRDs, encourage
development of a wide
variety of dwelling unit types
in a planned environment.

R-H High
density
9 du/ac Single- and multi-family
planned developments,
apartments, mobile home parks
with PRD-type development
conditionally allowed,
affordable and senior housing
MHP Mobile
home park
9 du/ac Mobile home parks, PRDs
encouraged
MU Mixed-use Varies Integrated residential, office
and commercial
development, specific plan
required
RE Residential
estate
1 du/ac Single-family homes, rural
and estate development
HR Hillside
reserve
1 du/ac limited, single-family
residential development on
privately-owned property in
hillside areas with restrictions
for land and living resources
Mixed Use
Core
Section 19
Specific
Plan
Varies Allow living units and
shopping/work places to be
built close to one another
Residential Section 19
Specific
Plan
20-28
du/ac
Attached single-family
condominiums, apartments,
heights to four stories allowed
* du / ac = dwelling unit per acre Source: City of Rancho Mirage 2017 9-197

18 Zoning Constraints
Minimum standards for the residential portion of the Zoning Ordinance could impact housing affordability by establishing the specific uses allowed or prohibited for each land use designation, and specific development standards such as required parking and setbacks. These are detailed in TABLE 37 and Table 39. Zoning standards currently limit residential buildings to two stories. In the City’s High Density Residential zone, this standard is not a restriction to achieving maximum density, and has been implemented by the City at multiple sites, including the San Jacinto Village apartments.

In the Section 19 and Highway 111 Specific Plans, height limits are increased to 36 feet and 40 feet, respectively. This height increase allows 3-story structures that can accommodate the densities proposed, ranging from 25 to 28 units per acre, assuming surface parking and required common areas.

In addition, the Zoning Ordinance sets forth minimum room sizes for all residential zones, shown in TABLE 38. The City has developed less restrictive standards for affordable housing projects, as shown in Table 37. In both the Highway 111 and Section 19 Specific Plans, reduced unit sizes are allowed for affordable housing units.

In the Highway 111 Specific Plan, unit sizes for affordable housing units are reduced to 500 square feet for a studio, and are consistent with the City’s apartment standards for larger units (900 square feet for a 1 or 2 bedroom unit, 1,000 square feet for a 3 bedroom unit, and 1,200 square feet for a 4 bedroom unit). In the Section 19 Specific Plan, studio units can be reduced to 450 square feet for affordable units. These standards, which apply to all but two of the City’s identified sites C, and E through I, remove constraints associated with unit size.

Lot coverage for residential projects not covered by the Highway 111 or Section 19 Specific Plans is set at a maximum of 35%. On an acre of land, this represents up to 15,250 square feet of building footprint, or 30,500 square feet for a two-story structure.

This will allow for all required setbacks and parking requirements in surface parking lots. Assuming an average unit size of 1,000 square feet, this would allow a density of 30 units per acre. In the Highway 111 Specific Plan area, there is no maximum building coverage. In the Section 19 Specific Plan areas 4.01, 4.02 and

4.03, maximum building coverage is 50%, which would allow over 20,000 square feet of building footprint, or 60,000 square feet for a 3-story building on one acre of land. The City’s building coverage requirements, therefore, do not pose a constraint to the development of affordable housing.

For housing for above moderate income households, development standards for single family market rate housing have not posed a constraint. As demonstrated by the issuance of building permits, for the 5 year period from 2014 through 2019, the City issued permits for 2,862 single family homes, or an average of 572 homes per year. These permits were issued for homes in existing or new subdivisions throughout the City, conforming to City standards for single family homes. Given the City’s RHNA requirement of 670 above moderate income units for the 8 year planning period, and the City’s current annual average of 572 units per year, development standards are not an impediment to the construction of above moderate income or market housing.

For housing for lower and moderate income households, the City’s development standards, although they allow for the construction of units with a density of up to 30 units per acre, could result in an impediment to the development of housing. Program H.1.F has been added which requires the comprehensive review of
development standards, and the amendment of the Zoning
Ordinance to assure that units can be effectively constructed under the Affordable Housing Overlay.

With the adoption of Ordinance No. 1086, No. 1148, and No. 1159, Chapter 17.08 (Residential Districts) of the Zoning Code was amended to include zoning changes for special types of housing. The Single Room Occupancy housing type was removed and now regulated through different housing types including accessory dwelling units (ADU). The City has adopted new ADU state regulations, which are permitted in all residential zones, as described in TABLE 40. The City has not experienced much demand for these units, but will track their development during the planning period as a tool to help with the provision of affordable housing, as provided in Program H 2.A.

Consistent with Government Code 65583, the Zoning Ordinance was amended to allow transitional and supportive housing as a residential use and only subject to those restrictions that apply to other residential uses of the same type in the same zone. Program H 1.C. has been completed to address this requirement. For more than six occupants, the Zoning Ordinance requires a Conditional Use Permit, which is the same process required for large group homes. The City amended the Municipal Code in 2019 to add transitional and supportive housing up to a maximum of six beds to the allowable residential use matrix. TABLE 40 identifies zoning designations that accommodate special types of housing. Table 2 in the Land Use Element of the General Plan identified available sites for each zone. Due to periodic changes in State law, the City’s Zoning Ordinance must be reviewed annually to assure compliance regarding transitional and supportive housing, permanent supportive housing, employee housing, single room occupancy units and manufactured housing on foundations.

Program H 1.C provides for the annual updating of the Zoning Ordinance for that purpose.

Emergency shelters are permitted with the approval of a development permit (non-discretionary) in the Public/Quasi-Public land use designation. As shown in Table 2 of the Land Use Element, there are 110 acres of vacant Public/Quasi-Public lands available for this use, which are distributed on the City’s major arterials. Since the City is served by transit, and has a broad distribution of land uses, emergency shelters would be located in areas where services are available. The development of emergency shelters would be subject to the development standards contained in Section

17.12.030, which requires front yard setbacks of 25 feet, side yard setbacks of 10 feet, rear yard setbacks of 20 feet, 35% building coverage and single story construction. These standards are typical of all institutional and public buildings in the City, and would allow 15,250 square feet of space per acre, sufficient to provide housing and services to a large number of people. The City’s Zoning Ordinance does not include standards for parking at emergency shelters. Recent amendments to State law limit parking requirements for emergency shelters to only those spaces required for employees. Program H1-C has been provided to require the amendment of the Zoning Ordinance to make this addition.

TABLE 37 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS, MINIMUM AREA

REQUIREMENTS FOR RESIDENTIAL ZONES

ZONES/USES LIVABLE AREA
(SQ. FT.)

BEDROOM,
MAX. NO.

BATHS,
MIN.

NO.

PARKING

REQUIRED
Single-family
detached
1,400 2 1.5 2 spaces in an
enclosed garage
+ 1 off-street guest
space for every 2
units, without
access to a public
street
1,700 3 or 2 +
den

1.75 1,900 4 2
Single-family
attached
1,000 1 1 1 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
1,250 2 1.5 2 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
1,650 3 2
Attached units in a
planned unit
development
(affordable
housing)
850 1 1 1 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
1,100 2 1.75 2 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
1,400 3 2
Single-family
detached
(affordable
housing)

Senior
Housing
950
1 1 2 spaces in an
enclosed garage
+ 1 off-street guest
space for every 2
units, without
access to a public
street
1,200 1,050 2 1.5
1,500 1,200 3 or 2
+ den

1.75 1,700 N/A 4 2
Apartments (R-M,
R-H and M-U)

850 1 1 1 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
900 2 1.5 2 covered + 1 off-
street guest space
for every 2 units
1,000 3 1.75
1,200 4 2
Senior group
housing

410 Studio 1 1 covered + 1
uncovered
employee and
guest space for
every 2 units in
congregate
housing facility
projects /1.5
uncovered spaces
for every 2 units in
independent living
projects
510-570 1 1
610-670 2 1.5
Source: City of Rancho Mirage zoning ordinance, Sections 17.30.100, 17.30.210, and

17.26.040

In the Section 19 Specific Plan, development standards vary from the Zoning Ordinance to allow the special uses and densities permitted in the Plan. The development standards allow greater flexibility in the Specific Plan area than in other areas of Rancho Mirage. These standards are illustrated in Table 41. The Highway 111 Specific Plan update currently in progress will also set more flexible development standards to allow the uses and densities permitted in the Plan, including an affordable housing overlay that will permit up to 34 units per acre.
9-198

Housing Element

19 Certain design standards such as architectural enhancements, roofing materials, and landscaping can increase the costs of housing. In Rancho Mirage, minimum unit areas and reduced parking for senior housing and affordable housing projects meet the same design standards as other residential developments, unless density bonus provisions are utilized.

The City has not received any request to develop housing below identified densities in the sites inventory and analysis (TABLE 44).

The Zoning Ordinance and the City’s fee schedule are posted on the City’s website.

TABLE 38 MINIMUM ROOM SIZE

USE MINIMUM AREA (SQ FT)
Garage 400
Bedroom *140
Full bath 50
Three-quarter bath 40
Half bath 30
* FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING, THE MASTER BEDROOM SHALL BE A MINIMUM OF 140

SQUARE FEET AND REMAINDER BEDROOM(S) SHALL BE A MINIMUM OF ONE

HUNDRED TEN SQUARE FT
SOURCE: CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE ZONING ORDINANCE, SECTION 17.30.110

Infrastructure Requirements
All projects, including residential developments, are generally required to install all necessary onsite and offsite improvements, including streets, curbs, sidewalks, and water and sewer connections. Adequate infrastructure may already exist on some infill lots.

Typical infrastructure requirements in Rancho Mirage include:
›› Local streets: 60-foot right-of-way, 40-foot-wide street ›› Restricted local street: 50-foot right-of-way, 36-foot-wide street
›› Secondary street: 88-foot right-of-way, 64-foot-wide street ›› Concrete 6-inch curbing
›› Connection to the nearest water and sewer mains

The City’s Public Works Department establishes actual
requirements for proposed projects, which may vary depending on the specifics of the site. Requirements for each project are intended to connect the project site with Rancho Mirage’s existing infrastructure and provide for the needs of the project’s residents without compromising service to existing residents.

Although these requirements are consistent for all cities in the Coachella Valley, the requirements to install infrastructure can adversely impact the cost of housing projects. In those instances where the infrastructure costs, in combination with other costs of construction, create economic infeasibility, the City may choose to subsidize the infrastructure improvements through its General Fund or Housing Authority.

Building Code Requirements
The City has adopted and enforces the 2019 California Building Code with amendments, to ensure all housing units are constructed to minimum safety standards. The City is not permitted to adopt standards that are less stringent than the California Building Code.

The City has not modified its Building Code beyond seismic requirements, and imposes Building Code standards for existing buildings only when more than 50% of a structure’s value is being modified, consistent with all cities in California. Imposition of the California Building Code does not unduly impact the cost of housing in Rancho Mirage in comparison to any other community in the state.

HOUSING TYPE ZONE WHERE PERMITTED Multi-family rental housing

R-L-3 (D)

R-M (D)

R-H (D)

M-U (D)

R-I-C (C)
Community Apartments and
Condominiums
R-L-2 (D)
R-L-3 (D)

R-M (D)

R-H (D)
Manufactured housing

R-E (D)
R-L-2 (D)
R-L-3 (D)

R-M (D)

R-H (D)

MHP (D)
Mobile homes MHP (D)
Housing for agricultural employees N/A*
Emergency shelters P (D)
Supportive/transitioning housing – 6
beds or less
HR (P)

R-E (P)
R-L-2 (P)
R-L-3 (P)

R-M (P)

R-H (P)

MHP (P)

TABLE 40 ZONING FOR SPECIAL HOUSING TYPES

HOUSING TYPE ZONE WHERE PERMITTED Supportive/transitioning housing –
more than 6 occupants

R-H (C)
Group homes– 6 beds or less HR (P)

R-E (P)
R-L-2 (P)
R-L-3 (P)

R-M (P)

R-H (P)

MHP (P)
Group homes – more than 6 beds R-H (C)
Accessory dwelling units HR (P)

R-E (P)
R-L-2 (P)
R-L-3 (P)

R-M (P)

R-H (P)

MHP (P)
Guest/employee housing R-E (P)
R-L-2 (P)
R-L-3 (P)

R-M (P)
Caretaker/Employee Housing Rs-H (D)

I-L (D)
Live/Work Facilities O (C)

M-U (D)

I-L (D)

HOUSING TYPE ZONE WHERE PERMITTED Assisted living facilities R-M (C)

R-H (D)

M-U (C)

R-I-C (C)
O (D)
State Licensed Residential
Care Homes—6 clients or less

M-U (P)
HR (P)

R-E (P)
R-L-2 (P)
R-L-3 (P)

R-M (P)

R-H (P)

MHP (P)
Large Residential Care
Facilities (7+) and Nonlicensed
Residential Care Homes

M-U (D)

R-I-C (D)

R-H (C)
Senior citizen congregate care
housing
R-L-3 (D)

MHP (D)

R-H (D)

M-U (C)
* There is little to no demand for this housing type, and no dedicated zoning district has been established
(P) = Permitted Use
(D) = Development Plan Permit Required
(C) = Conditional Use Permit Required
Source: City of Rancho Mirage Zoning Ordinance, Section 17.08.012 and

17.10.012.

TABLE 39 RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS, MINIMUM DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR RESIDENTIAL ZONES HR R-E R-L-2 R-L-3 R-M R-H MHP
Maximum
units/acre
1/640* 1 2 3 5 9 9
Lot area 640 ac 1 ac 18,000 sf 12,000 sf 10,000 sf 8,000 sf see note (a) below
Lot width 100 ft 100 ft 90 ft 80 ft 70 ft 60 ft see note (a) below
Lot depth 100 ft 100 ft 100 ft 90 ft 90 ft 90 ft see note (a) below
Front setback 25 ft 25 ft 25 ft (a) 25 ft (a) 20 ft (a) 20 ft (a) 10 ft Rear setback 25 ft 25 ft 25 ft (a) 25 ft (a) 25 ft (a) 20 ft (a) 10 ft Side setback 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 10 ft 5 ft
Maximum building lot
coverage
30% (a) 30% 30% (a) 30% (a) 30% (a) 35% 30% (a)
Minimum distance
between buildings
N/A 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft 20 ft
* FOR EXISTING PARCELS OF LESS THAN SIX HUNDRED FORTY ACRES, ONE DWELLING UNIT IS ALLOWED. (A) THESE DIMENSIONS VARY ONLY IN PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, MIXED USE, AND MOBILE HOME PARKS, AND WILL BE DETERMINED DURING DEVELOPMENT PLAN PERMIT REVIEW.
(B) THIS TABLE IS ONLY A SUBSET OF THE RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS. REFER TO TABLE 2-3 IN MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 17.08.020 FOR MORE INFORMATION.

SOURCE: CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE ZONING ORDINANCE, SECTIONS 17.08.020 9-199

20 Fees
Rancho Mirage has established development fees for typical single and multi-family residential development in Rancho Mirage.

TABLE 42 outlines such current fees. Planning fees associated with residential development are shown in TABLE 43. Additional fees may be charged for review of other types of planning applications such as tract maps, planned development permits, architectural review, and environmental review.

Although development, planning, and related fees ultimately raise the cost of housing, cities and counties can offer reduced or subsidized fees for certain types of projects including affordable housing projects. TUMF for new construction provide exemptions for affordable housing projects. Similarly, license tax fees may offer exceptions for affordable projects through their conditions of approval.

Permit Processing Procedures
Affordable and market rate residential housing projects are subject to the Development Plan (DP) process, which requires review by City staff, and review and approval from the Architectural Review Board (ARB), Planning Commission, and City Council. The DP process is a site plan review process which assures that zoning requirements are met, and is similar to typical processes throughout California. The ARB is advisory to the Planning Commission. The permitting process includes only two hearings, one for the Planning Commission and one for the City Council. The permit process described below assumes that no streamlining requests are made by the applicant, including SB 35 streamlining, for an affordable housing project.

In that case, the provisions of State law apply, and projects would be processed in approximately 60 days.

TABLE 41 SECTION 19 SPECIFIC PLAN DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS

STANDARDS REQUIREMENT
Density 20 to 28 du/ac
min. 20 du/ac on designated sites*
Setbacks 10 to 28 feet
Parking, single-family 2.00/unit + 0.25 guest/unit
Parking, multi-family 1.75/unit + 0.15 guest/unit
Minimum common area open space 100 square feet/unit
*MINIMUM DENSITIES OF 20 DU/AC ON SITES DESIGNATED FOR EXCLUSIVELY RESIDENTIAL USE SOURCE: CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE ZONING ORDINANCE, SECTION 19 SPECIFIC PLAN, AS AMENDED BY ORDINANCE 1047

TABLE 42 CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE PLANNING FEE SCHEDULE

ITEM FEE
General plan/zoning map amendment $4,555
Specific plan $21,187
Conditional use permit $2,648 (minor);
$6,780 (major)
Variance $530 (minor);
$5,826 (major)
Development agreement $5,297
Preliminary development plan 20 ac $15,890 Final development plan $4,026
Single-family site development permit (one-story) $2,648 Environmental assessment / Initial study $1,958
Environmental impact report $16,965
Zoning interpretation $265
Appeals to the Director of Development Services $530
Planning Commission $2,648
City Council $3,390
Tentative parcel map (4 or less parcels) $3,390
Revisions after approval $2,648
Tentative tract map < 5 ac $5,826 5 – 20 ac $7,415
Revisions after approval $3,390
* AC = ACRES
SOURCE: CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE 2020

The ARB ensures that the development standards required in the Zoning Ordinance, such as unit size, density, height limits, set- backs, and parking, are met in each development proposal. The DP consists of two applications: the Preliminary Development Plan (PDP) and the Final Development Plan (FDP).

Preliminary Development Plan
Preliminary Development Plan: The review and approval process begins when the applicant submits the PDP application to the Planning Division. The PDP application includes site plans, elevations and similar public hearing materials.

Within 30 days of submittal, staff reviews the application and notes any corrections in a letter to the applicant. Project plans and materials are routed to various public agencies (e.g., Fire Marshal, CVWD) and City departments, including Public Works, for comments when the project application is determined complete.

Once the application is deemed complete, the proposal is scheduled for review by the ARB. The proposal is scheduled for a public hearing before the Planning Commission once the ARB review has been completed. Finally, City Council considers the results of the ARB review and the Planning Commission hearing, and makes a determination on the project.

The findings associated with a Development Plan are:

1. Allowed within the respective zoning district;

2. Generally in compliance with all of the applicable
provisions of this title that are necessary to carry out the purpose and requirements of the respective zoning district, including prescribed development standards and
applicable design guidelines; and

3. Consistent with the general plan and specific plan, if applicable.

None of these findings are a constraint to the approval of a project.

Processing time for most PDPs takes an average of three to four months from the time a PDP is submitted until the time City Council makes a determination. The actual amount of time varies greatly depending on the completeness of the initial application, the time required to resubmit once comments have been made, and the determination or requirements set forth by project reviewers.

Final Development Plan
The FDP application, submitted to the Planning Division, consists of the project’s construction plans prepared in accordance with the approved PDP application and any conditions of approval set forth TABLE 43 CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE DEVELOPMENT FEES
SINGLE-FAMILY MULTI-FAMILY, 20 UNITS
800 SQ FT/2 BEDROOMS 1,800 SQ FT 2,500 SQ FT
Estimated Construction Valuation $236,412 $328,350 $1,897,120 Fees
General Government 992 992 792
Fire Protection 449 449 358
Transportation 4,119 4,119 2,538
Park and Recreation 1,726 1,726 1,378
Library 1,145 1,145 914
Infrastructure Undergrounding 272 272 272
Subtotal $7,711 $7,711 $5,460
Non-City fees
SMI 66.20 91.94 26.56
TUMF 2,310 2,310 1,330
School fee 7,344 10,200 3,264
Subtotal $9,720 $12,602 $4,621
Total $17,431 $20,313 $10,081
All values are per residential unit except the Estimated Construction Valuation.

SMI = Strong Motion Instrumentation and Seismic Hazard Mapping Fee TUMF = Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee
Source: City of Rancho Mirage 2019, CVAG 2018
9-200

Housing Element

21 during the review process. Planning Division staff approve the FDP as long as the project substantially conforms to the approval given by City Council.

The FDP, which can be filed and approved at any time after the PDP approval, may be approved in 30 days or less. Construction of the project must begin within one year of the FDP approval, or within two years if a tract map accompanied the FDP, or the approval expires.

Extensions of one year to both the PDP and FDP are allowed under the Zoning Ordinance.

Parcel and Tract Maps
Depending on the project, parcel maps (four or fewer lots) or tract maps (five or more lots) may be required. The project and environmental review and approval process and time involved for such maps are similar to the PDP application, except that ARB review is not required. The subdivision map is most often processed concurrently with the PDP, and does not extend the processing time for the project.

Tentative parcel maps are approved by the Planning Commission.

Tentative tract maps receive final approval from the City Council.

A final map must be submitted and approved by the City Council as a non-public hearing item. Should the applicant not be able to receive an approved Final Map within the two-year period, one year extensions, as provided by State law, are possible. The timelines described above are typical of the cities of the Coachella Valley, and less time consuming than County processes. The times required to process applications in the City are not considered constraints to housing.

Code Enforcement
The City’s Building & Safety Division enforces the California Building Code to ensure that new construction is safe for the occupants, and is properly maintained. The Code Compliance Division is responsible for the on-going maintenance of housing units in a safe and habitable condition.

Code compliance for structural deficiencies or maintenance problems is processed as follows: A phone call and/or a site visit is made to the property owner. In most instances, this is sufficient to cause the violation to be corrected by the property owner.

Typically, the property owner is given 10 to 20 days to correct the violation. If personal contact is not possible, the Code Compliance Division will send a letter to the owner of record. The City has the ability to directly abate a violation, if the owner is unwilling or cannot be located. All costs associated with abatement are billed to the property owner. If the owner is unwilling to pay, a tax lien is placed on the property. These procedures are typical of those employed by most cities in California, and do not place an un-due constraint on the development or maintenance of housing.

Article XXXIV
The California Constitution, Article XXXIV requires voter approval of affordable housing developments when they are developed, constructed, or acquired in any manner by a public agency.

Rancho Mirage voters considered and passed an Article XXXIV referendum in 1981. The authorization was not for any specific site or project.

Article XXXIV requirements do not apply to projects that are owned by a private developer, owned by a private non-profit
organization, or contain less than 50 percent affordable units.

Short-Term Rental Ordinance
The City’s Short-Term Rental Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter

3.25) defines short-term rental (STR) as a property, rented for a period of 27 consecutive calendar days or less, for dwelling, lodging, or sleeping or special event purposes, regardless of home-sharing and/or subletting arrangements. STRs are allowed in any residentially zoned single-family residential dwelling or condominium within communities with Homeowners Association (HOA) that do not prohibit STRs in its CC&R’s. Homeowners are required to obtain a STR certificate and collect transient occupancy taxes (TOT) at a rate of 10% of the rent charged. STRs provide homeowners with opportunities to increase their incomes, which can offset their housing costs. STRs are often rented by vacationers rather than permanent residents, and the added TOT costs revenues are not considered a constraint to housing. Furthermore, because only units within planned communities excluding those subject to affordable housing covenants are allowed to have STRs, and these communities contain only market rate units, the presence of STRs in Rancho Mirage does not constrain the development of affordable housing.

Economic Constraints
Land Costs
According to the Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA), land price/cost in Rancho Mirage fluctuated in the last decade, and saw an overall increase from 2012 to 2019. Land costs dipped to a low point in 2018, but rose above the 2012 level by 2019. Land share of property value fluctuated around 30%, with a low of 24% and a high of 36%. As the planning period extends for eight years, land costs will fluctuate, and will continue to be an issue directly tied to the provision of affordable housing. In 2019, FHFA data revealed land value in the northeast portion of Rancho Mirage at $15.78 per square foot for existing residential properties (as is), or $17.38 per square foot (standardized by age of structure, interior area, and lot size). Land values in Rancho Mirage are among the highest in the Coachella Valley, and although the City does not determine the price of land, land use policies regulate the number of units built per acre, which directly impact the cost of development.

Construction Costs
Single-family and multi-family construction costs are estimated to range between $114 and $131 per square foot in the current economic environment, depending on home design and materials selected according to International Code Council. These costs are less than what was estimated during the previous planning period, and reflective of 2020 construction costs. Although the City cannot directly control construction costs, it does offer subsidies to achieve affordability in residential units.

Financing Costs
The purchase price of a dwelling unit is impacted by financing costs, which can affect affordability and the home buyer’s ability to purchase. Interest rates directly impact financing costs, and vary in response to national factors. Current interest rates are low -- from under two to just above three percent depending on the length of the mortgage. The City could develop and implement programs to write down interest rates in order to increase affordability, but current interest rates do not warrant such programs. Financing for both construction and long-term mortgages is generally available subject to normal underwriting standards.

Homeowners Associations
In Rancho Mirage, many country clubs, gated communities, and residential neighborhoods have homeowners’ associations that charge mandatory monthly fees. Although the initial purchase price of homes in many country clubs and gated communities exceeds the definition of affordable to moderate income households, some purchase prices may appear affordable. However, the total housing payment including principal, interest, taxes, and insurance is combined with a monthly Homeowners Association fee, which may cause the total payment to exceed 30 percent of the household’s income and become unaffordable.

Non-Governmental Constraints
In general, building permit applications for residential projects (other than single family homes) are received by the City within approximately 3 months of entitlement approvals.

The City is committed to meeting its fair share of housing for the current planning period, and has identified sufficient lands to address the RHNA. Developers do not request reductions in density from those allowed under the Zoning Ordinance, and the City will continue to promote the higher densities allowed under the AHO overlay, the Highway 111 Specific Plan and the Section 19 Specific Plan for those sites listed in Table 44. In addition, given the requirements of AB 330, the City cannot deny a housing project proposed within the density range allowed on inventory sites unless than project does not meet the City’s numerical development standards. Therefore, the City’s efforts to increase density and the requirements of State law prevent affordable housing from being developed at lower densities, and there is no constraint. 9-201

22 Physical Constraints
Environmental
There are no environmental constraints to the construction of housing in the City. There are no earthquake faults, areas susceptible to liquefaction or other seismic hazard, or flood zones within the developable areas of the City, and especially lands shown in the City’s vacant land inventory for affordable housing units. The City implements the most current building code, which includes seismic requirements consistent with the requirements implemented everywhere in California.

Maintenance of Housing Stock
Although the majority of housing in Rancho Mirage is relatively new, as of 2020, 62.1 percent of the units in Rancho Mirage were over 30 years of age. Structures over 30 years of age require maintenance to remain in habitable condition. Lower income renters and owners may be unable to afford repairs. The City’s Home Improvement Program was designed to aid those
households in maintaining and improving their properties; however, it ended Fiscal Year 2013-2014 (June 30, 2014). The program may be reinstated when funds are available.

Infrastructure
Pursuant to SB 1087, Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD), as the water purveyor for the City, will be provided the adopted Housing Element and shall be required to establish specific procedures to grant priority service to affordable projects. Although most of Rancho Mirage’s infill development sites are not constrained by the lack of infrastructure, there are a few areas with inadequate services, as discussed below.

CVWD has approved Urban Water Management Plans, which
was last updated in 2015 based on the City’s General Plan build out. The 2015 Plan states that CVWD has sufficient supplies available to meet the City’s RHNA. In addition, CVWD’s
wastewater treatment plants have adequate capacity to meet long term development needs, since their planning is directly tied to the build out potential of the General Plans of the cities their serve, including Rancho Mirage.

The neighborhood near Thunder Road, south and west of Highway 111 and Country Club Drive, consists of three cul-de-sac streets (Bird Lane, View Road and Estates Road), where existing dwelling units lack sewer. Single-lot development is infeasible due to the high cost of installing sewer lines and establishing connections to the main system. This area is included in both the Highway 111 Specific Plan, currently under way, and in the site inventory to meet the City’s RHNA allocation. Actions to promote and encourage lot assembly will be required to assure that this area will redevelop to provide affordable housing. The Specific Plan’s affordable housing overlay, which will allow up to 34 units per acre, is one such action which would make the area feasible for development. This potential constraint is addressed in the policies and programs below.

Peterson Road and Mirage Cove Drive is an area of one acre and larger equestrian lots without sewer service. Existing homes currently operate on septic systems, and some still have individual wells for domestic water supply. Development of new homes has not occurred due to the high cost of installing sewer lines. Article XXXIV requirements do not apply to projects that are owned by a private developer or a private non-profit organization, or contain less than 50 percent affordable units. None of the sites identified to meet the City’s RHNA allocation occur in this area.

Vista del Sol is an area of one-acre lots lacking adequate infrastructure. The area is located in the Section 31 Specific Plan area, where the City envisioned a community of resort hotel, residential, commercial, and open space/recreation uses oriented around a Grand Oasis lagoon. In the Section 31 Specific Plan completed in November 2019, a 15” PVC sewer main is
proposed within Vista Del Sol to connect the existing sewer system at Frank Sinatra Drive to the existing 24” VCP sewer main in Country Club Drive. The infrastructure expansion will remove this impediment to development in this area. None of the sites identified to meet the City’s RHNA allocation occur in Section 31.

Strategy for Meeting Affordable
Housing Need

The City’s Housing Authority consists of the five City Council Members and establishes a voting authority for affordable housing projects. The Housing Authority, among other tasks, pursues mobile home park acquisition, joint venture projects with private developers, and development and management of Housing
Authority-owned affordable housing projects.

In the 2014-2021 planning period, the Housing Authority made efforts to preserve and rehabilitate existing affordable housing projects and plan new projects, each of which is described below.

Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park
In 2009, the Housing Authority acquired the Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park at 39-360 Peterson Road. The park was cleared in 2017. The project site is adjacent to roadways, transit and utility infrastructure. The property has been added to the City’s Site Inventory for the 2021-2029 planning period. It is anticipated that the property will be redeveloped into an affordable residential use.

While there are currently no plans to develop the property, the City is open to options including partnering with an affordable housing developer, offering the site for sale to an affordable housing developer, or selling the site for other purposes.

Highway 111 Specific Plan
In 2019, the City began to prepare an update to its Highway 111 Specific Plan. The update of the plan will establish minimum densities of 16 units per acre on designated sites and allow up to 34 units per acre with an affordable housing overlay in the Thunder Road area. The Specific Plan is currently planned for adoption in 2021.

Section 19 Specific Plan
With the adoption of Ordinance No. 1047 in 2012, the City requires the provision of 1,120 affordable housing units in the Section 19 Specific Plan area just south of I-10. Units will be reserved for extremely low, very low, and low income households.

In 2017, a new water trunk line was installed which improved water pressure in the area, which had been a constraint on development. Extension of water and sewer lines to serve the first phase (mixed use development) of the Specific Plan is expected to continue as necessary during the 2021-2029 housing cycle, but no development plans for affordable housing have been proposed to date.

The Section 19 Specific Plan includes multiple planning areas, The Planning Areas listed in Table 44 are each just over 7 acres, and total 22.1 acres. These Planning Areas are required by Ordinance 1047 to be developed for affordable housing, including employee housing. These three planning areas are adjacent to the water and sewer extensions completed by CVWD, making their development feasible during the current planning period. These planning areas are part of a 112 acre parcel under single ownership. In order to encourage the development of these parcels, program H 6.A has been added.

Monterey & Dinah Shore Land Holding
The City-owned 50-acre property is in close proximity to the Monterey Marketplace shopping center (see Map Key B, TABLE 44). A total of approximately 227 units of single and multiple family housing for very low land low income households had been planned for 25 acres of this property. The Housing Authority was not able to construct the Monterey Village project due to lack of funds. The City is actively engaging with the development community and has received positive responses given the project location and access to transit and jobs. The City will continue to pursue partnerships and projects on this property during the 2021- 2029 period.

Parkview Villas and Whispering Waters
The Housing Authority updated roofs and cabinetry at Parkview Villas and Whispering Waters to address health and safety concerns in 2014-2015. In 2018, the Housing Authority updated cabinetry in units that became vacant. The Housing Authority will continue to rehabilitate its own units as the need arises. 9-202

Housing Element

23 Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments
In 2018, the City extended the affordability covenant for 35 units at Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments through July 21, 2060. They include 18 low income units (all Junior 1 bed/1 bath), and 17 moderate income units (8 1 bed/1 bath, 4 2 bed/1 bath, and 5 2 bed/2 bath units).

Land Availability
In order to determine if sufficient lands are available for the construction of the 1,073 extremely low, very low, low, and moderate income units required to meet the City’s RHNA
allocation, an analysis of available lands was conducted. TABLE 44 lists the available parcels, and the potential units to be generated on these parcels for affordable housing. The map provides locations for each site listed in TABLE 44.

As described in TABLE 44, the City proposes to accommodate all extremely low, very low, low, and moderate income housing on lands distributed throughout the City. Parcels in the Section 19 Specific Plan are included in the inventory, which allow densities of 20 to 28 units per acre. As previously discussed, the Specific Plan includes a mandate for 1,120 affordable housing units. Any one of the planning areas could develop for affordable housing during the planning period, particularly since the constraint regarding domestic water pressure has been removed. Parcels in the proposed Highway 111 Specific Plan are also included, which allow 16 units per acre and conditionally allow up to 34 units per acre with affordable housing overlay in the Thunder Road area.

The lots in the Thunder Road area (4.86 acres) are each 0.2 to 0.4 acres in size. Their size, in the High Density Residential zone has resulted in extremely limited development in this area. The neighborhood is located, however, immediately south of Highway 111, immediately adjacent to a SunLine Transit bus stop, and close to shopping and employment centers. Included in the Highway 111 Specific Plan update currently in development, this area sees great potential for redevelopment, and a program has been included below to encourage the Housing Authority to work with private parties towards purchase and consolidation of these lots for effective use as an affordable housing project in the future.

The City has traditionally and successfully developed affordable housing at a density of nine or 10 units per acre, due largely to the City’s commitment of financial resources, and securing of funds through other programs. As shown in Table 45, three of the City’s affordable housing projects currently have a density of 10 units per acre or less. With the elimination of set-aside funds, the City now has the ability to leverage land for affordable housing projects, but does not have additional funds available toward the cost of construction. In order to encourage the development of sites B (Monterey Village) and D (Rancho Mirage MHP), Program H 9.A has been added which requires the implementation of an
Affordable Housing Overlay for these sites. Under the Overlay, which will be modeled after the Highway 111 Specific Plan overlay for the same purpose, affordable housing development would be considered at densities of up to 28 units per acre, not including density bonus provisions. For purposes of analyzing capacity of inventory sites, the City looked at development trends for affordable housing projects regionally, and determined that Site B and D can realistically be expected to develop at a density of 25 units per acre, with the application of an affordable housing overlay. This is consistent with the development of affordable housing proposed and/or constructed in the region in recent years in the Coachella Valley, including:

Palm Springs:
• Monarch Apartments, will provide 60 units affordable to very low and low income households on 3.6 acres, at a
density of 17 units per acre. The project is fully funded and will break ground in October of 2021.

Palm Desert:
• Carlos Ortega Villas, consists of 72 units on 3.48
acres affordable to very low and low income
households, at a density of 21 units per acre.
• Vitalia, 270 units affordable to very low and low
income households on 12 acres approved in 2021,
at a density of 23 units per acre.
• Millennium SARDA site, 240 units affordable to very
low and low income households on 10 acres, under
contract in 2021, at a density of 24 units per acre.

La Quinta:
• Coral Mountain Apartments, constructed in 2018,
provides 176 units on 11 acres for very low and low
income households, at a density of 16 units per acre.

Indio:
• Arroyo Crossing 1 is currently under construction, and provides 184 units on 6.4 acres affordable to very
low and low income households, at a density of 29
units per acre.
• Arroyo Crossing 2, will provide 216 units affordable
to very low and low income households on 7.3 acres,
at a density of 30 units per acre. The project was
approved in 2021.

TABLE 44 VACANT LAND INVENTORY, POTENTIAL AFFORDABLE UNITS FOR VERY LOW, LOW AND MODERATE INCOME HOUSEHOLDS

MAP
KEY ASSESSOR’S PARCEL NO. GENERAL PLAN ZONING TOTAL ACRES POTENTIAL

DENSITY

REALISTIC

DENSITY

POTENTIAL
UNITS
A 670-230-021
(formerly 670-230-014) High-Density Residential RH 36.68 9 9 Lower: 300 Mod: 100
B 685-090-011
(formerly 618-500-019)
High-Density Residential
w/affordable housing
overlay
RH 25± of 52.48 9
28 9
25 225
Lower: 370
Mod: 255
C Section 19 Specific Plan
685-010-013
Residential PA's 4.01,

4.02, 4.03 Residential

4.01=7.3

4.02= 7.4

4.03=7.4
25 25
Lower: 183
Lower: 185
Lower:185
D 689-180-012 Mobile Home Park
MHP
w/affordable
housing
overlay

12.34 9

28 9

25 108

Lower: 234
Mod: 75
HIGHWAY 111 SPECIFIC
PLAN LANDS* (PROPOSED) (EXISTING) TOTAL ACRES (BY

RESIDENTIAL LAND USE)
E Planning Area 1 Mixed Use CG 24.9 28 28

F Planning Area 2 Mixed Use CG 54.88 28 28

G Planning Area 4 Mixed Use
RH-SP
O
RH

7.59 12.79
28 34**
28 34**

Lower: 200
Mod: 235
H Planning Area 7 Mixed Use CN 28.43 28 28

I Planning Area 9 Mixed Use CG 7.27 28 28

* APNs and acreage provided in Appendix.

HWY 111 SP MU SUBTOTAL 36* 435
TOTAL UNITS 2,322
*40% of total vacant MU Acreage
**Affordable Housing Overlay
Note: Distribution of units by income level is to be determined as projects are brought forward. This table provides estimates only. 9-203

24 Cities in the Coachella Valley, including Rancho Mirage, can expect, in the current market, that projects ranging in density from 17 to 29 units per acre are being funded and can be built to accommodate lower income households. Therefore, the City’s reliance on a density of 25 units per acre for sites B, C and D is realistic, and can be achieved in the planning period. These three sites would generate a total of 1,522 units of housing affordable to extremely low, very low, low and moderate income households.

It is the City’s intent that these sites be developed with a mix of income levels, as provided in Program H1.E. The City’s RHNA allocation for the 2022-2029 planning period for these income groups is 1,076 units. Therefore, the City’s RHNA can be accommodated on these three sites. Their development potential is particularly high, because sites B and D are both City-owned, and the City is currently marketing them for affordable housing. Sites A, E, F, G, H and I are also included in Table 44, but are not needed to meet the City’s RHNA. Sites E through I are all located in the Highway 111 Specific Plan area, which will be approved in 2021, and is seen as having a high potential for future development opportunities. That development potential, however, has yet to be tested, and in order to assure that the City can meet its RHNA allocation, these parcels are secondary to meeting the City’s RHNA.

The City has in the past, when the Redevelopment Agency (RDA) existed, maintained a policy of developing and owning affordable housing projects in Rancho Mirage; however, due to lack of funding, the policy will shift towards partnering with the development community for future projects. For the Monterey Village project, which will yield about 625 units, the cost per unit is estimated to be $388,300 per unit, or a total of $87,367,500.

This estimate is based on discussions with Pacific West and Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, whose three approved projects in the Coachella Valley are ranging from $300,850 to $454,000 per unit. An average of $388,300 was used for this estimate. Depending on the availability of funding, the Housing Authority may leverage cash and land to help fund the project and seek partnership with a private developer. As shown in TABLE 44, more than sufficient lands are available to meet the RHNA extremely low, very low, low, and moderate income allocation for the 2021-2029 planning period. Finally, sites 1, 2 and 3, as shown on the aerial, have a capacity for over 2,500 above moderate income, market rate units. These sites, along with infill lots in existing City neighborhoods, provide sufficient sites to meet the above moderate income RHNA allocation for the City.

As shown in Table 45, affordable housing projects in the City have traditionally been built at densities of about 10 units per acre. This was achievable because of City subsidy through set-aside funds. Because these funds have been eliminated, the City expects that affordable housing units will be built at higher densities in the future. As a result, the densities planned for the Housing Overlay, which have a base of 28 units and can be increased to 34 units per acre, have been used in the calculation of density for sites shown in Table 44. The RHNA requires that the City have capacity for 1,076 affordable units. As shown in Table 44, Sites A, B and D would result in 733 units at the City’s base density of 9 units per acre. With application of the High-Density Residential Overlay, and using the low end of the density range at 28 units per acre, these same sites would result in 1,446 residential units. This exceeds the City’s RHNA for very low, low and moderate income households by 370 units.

In order to further the development of housing, Table 45 also includes units within the Section 19 and Highway 111 Specific Plans, which have the potential of generating an additional 1,023 units.

The parcels within each of the Highway 111 Specific Plan Planning areas shown in Table 45 range in size from 1 to 10 acres, because these areas are infill lands within the City’s core. The unit count assumed in Table 44 is based on 40% of these lands being developed for affordable housing.

Table 45 DENSITY OF EXISTING AFFORDABLE HOUSING PROJECTS PROJECT NAME ACREAGE NO. OF UNITS1 DENSITY
Santa Rosa
Villas*

4.85 34 7.2 du/ac
Parkview Villas* 9.87 82 8.3 du/ac
Whispering
Waters*

1.84 30 16.0 du/ac
San Jacinto
Villas*

8.70 83 9.5 du/ac
Las Colinas 8.20 84 10.0 du/ac
Villa Mirage 6.22 98 15.7 du/ac
Rancho Mirage
Villa Apartments

1.52 35 23.0 du/ac
1 Includes manager’s unit

Funding of Future Housing Projects
Funding for previously planned RDA projects has been eliminated, and the Housing Authority does not have funds for new projects.

The City will leverage lands it owns, and partner with affordable housing developers to implement projects. These developers will have access to Tax Credit and other programs through State and federal agencies, and will compete for these funds. This is the method of funding currently being used throughout the Coachella Valley to fund affordable housing projects.

Public Participation
The Housing Element Update process included public participation in the form of a public workshop, a Housing Commission
workshop, City Council study sessions, and public hearings. The first workshop was conducted on January 13, 2021 and included a short presentation on the basic requirements of Housing Elements and the update process, followed by a conversation with the participants. The primary goal of the workshop was to collect information from the public on the housing needs of Rancho Mirage. A second workshop was conducted with the Housing Commission on February 10, 2021.

The City received eight RSVPs representing seven developers.

Representatives of affordable housing developers active in the Valley attended. The primary concern of participants was the difficulty in funding projects because of the competitiveness and limited funding available from State and federal agencies, coupled with the inability of local jurisdictions to assist due to the elimination of set-aside funds. Other comments received at the workshops indicated interest in building more affordable housing in the City and general concerns on the length of the project approval process to fit in with tax credit and other funding time limits as well as possible NIMBY objection from the community. As a result of the workshops, and consistent with the City’s limited funding, programs have been adjusted from City-funded efforts to public-private partnerships for this planning period.

The City advertised the Housing Element workshops in the display advertising section of the Desert Sun newspaper, emailed notices to affordable housing development entities, including the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, Habitat for Humanity, and Lift to Rise, and posted the notice on its website.

The City posted its Housing Element on the City website from September 7 to September 21, 2021, and concurrently sent an email blast to all workshop invitees asking for review and comment, as well as posting notice of the review on its website and social media sites. No comments were received.

The Housing Element was also presented to the Planning
Commission and City Council in a Study Session held on
December 15, 2021. Notice of the Study Session was sent to all those who participated in community workshops, including numerous affordable housing develoers. Representatives of Lift to Rise, CHOC and other affordable housing developers attended the Study Session. Lift to Rise representatives spoke to the need for affordable housing units for employees who work in the City, and to the shortage of affordable housing units across the Coachella Valley.

The City also again posted the Housing Element draft 10 days prior to the Planning Commission hearing on January 13, 2022, and it remained posted until the City Council hearing on February 3, 2022. The Element was then sent to HCD for final review.

The City will continue to promote participation in the Housing Element process annually through its annual review of prior to submittal of progress reports to HCD. 9-204

Housing Element

25 9-205

26 Housing Goals, Policies, and Programs,
2021-2029

GOAL H 1
A variety of housing types that meet the needs of residents in Rancho Mirage.

GOAL H 2
Housing to meet the needs of Rancho Mirage’s lower income households and other special need groups, including seniors and persons with disabilities.

GOAL H 3
The preservation and maintenance of Rancho Mirage’s affordable housing supply in a safe and sanitary condition.

GOAL H 4

Affirmatively furthering fair housing to eliminate and prevent potential discrimination and ensure fair housing choice.

POLICY H 1
The General Plan shall provide for a mixture of residential densities dispersed throughout Rancho Mirage.

PROGRAM H 1.A
The City shall monitor the remaining supply of vacant land in all residential zoning categories.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
Annually with General Plan Annual Report.

PROGRAM H 1.B
The City shall amend its Zoning Ordinance residential
development standards, as needed, to ensure that a variety of housing types are accommodated without sacrificing the City’s design standards.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
Annually with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 1.C
The City’s Density Bonus Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter

17.22) shall be amended consistent with State law (Government Code Section 65915); and its Zoning Ordinance for parking for emergency shelters, reasonable accommodation, transitional and supportive housing, permanent supportive housing, employee housing, single room occupancy units and manufactured housing on foundations.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2022; annually thereafter with Zoning Ordinance Annual
Update.

PROGRAM H 1.D
To facilitate affordable housing development in high resource areas, the City to consider up to 28 units by right as a base, not including density bonus provisions, per acre. The Overlay will be applied to both the Monterey Village and the Rancho Palms MHP site (sites B and D of Table 44). The projects proposed for these sites shall be subject to all of the “by right” provisions of Government Code sections 65583, subdivision (c)(1), and 65583.2, subdivisions (h) and (i).

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
Adopt the overlay in 2022.

PROGRAM H 1.E
Projects proposed on sites B, C and D shall include a balanced mix of extremely low, very low, low and moderate income units in order to meet the City’s RHNA allocation. This requirement shall be added to the affordable housing overlay when codified.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2022 for zoning text amendment. Implementation as projects are proposed for sites B, C and D.

PROGRAM H 1.F
The City shall adopt an SB 35 application procedure for qualifying affordable housing projects.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2022 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 1.F
The City shall undertake a comprehensive review of its
development standards to assure that the densities required in the Affordable Housing Overlay can be achieved, and make any changes to the Zoning Ordinance necessary to achieve those densities.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
Report to Council/Zoning Changes Complete by June of 2023

POLICY H 2
The City’s residential development standards shall allow for a diversity of housing types to provide new housing choices and enhance housing mobility while adhering to the General Plan’s community design policies.
.

PROGRAM H 2.A
The City shall establish a pilot program to encourage development of ADUs and JADUs that are dedicated as affordable units and made available for rent to low-income households for at least 30 years. The City may consider an incentive such as a floor area bonus for the property owner.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2023 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 2.B
Review the Zoning Ordinance and make changes to ensure
compliance with AB 101 (Low-Barrier Navigation Centers).

Modify the definition of “homeless shelter” to include this use.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
At 2022 Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

POLICY H 3
Affordable housing developments shall be distributed throughout Rancho Mirage rather than concentrated in one area.

POLICY H 4
Rental projects shall be developed through partnerships with the Housing Authority, sale of City property to qualified affordable housing developers, and private projects as they are proposed.

The Housing Authority shall maintain its existing projects, and oversee new projects to assure that affordability and the quality of life in these projects is maintained.

PROGRAM H 4.A
The Housing Authority shall consider all available options when developing rental units, including hiring contractors through requests for proposals, participating in tax credit applications and other strategies as they become available.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
For City-owned properties:

Site B: Establish development strategy 2022-2023. Secure entitlements.2024-2025. Construction & Occupancy 2026-2027 Site D: Establish development strategy 2024-2025. Secure entitlements.2026-2027. Construction & Occupancy 2028-2029 9-206

Housing Element

27 PROGRAM H 4.B
To preserve the existing affordable housing supply, the Housing Authority shall maintain a program
for substantial rehabilitation of at least 20 existing rental units owned by the Housing Authority, and
shall pursue additional funding when available for other rental units.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

PROGRAM H 4.C
To promote community revitalization and housing affordability in the Thunder Road area, which is in the high resource area of Highway 111 corridor, the City shall solicit private parties to purchase and consolidate small vacant lots there to allow the development of an economically feasible project for extremely low, very low, low and/or moderate income households.

Outreach efforts shall include annual meetings with affordable housing developers such as Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, Community Housing Opportunity Corporation, Habitat for
Humanity and others as they are identified.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually through Desert Valley Builders Association meetings, individual meetings with developers, and other appropriate parties.

PROGRAM H 4.D
The City shall include a minimum of 15% of units developed on sites B and D (as shown on Table 44) for extremely low income households.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
To be included in all RFPs, ENAs and purchase agreements for projects on these sites.

POLICY H 5
There shall be equal access to housing regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, age, family status or sexual orientation. The City shall promote and affirmatively further fair housing opportunities throughout the community for all persons regardless of race, religion, sex, marital status, ancestry, national origin, color, familial status, or disability, and other characteristics protected by the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), Government Code Section 65008, and any other
applicable state and federal fair housing and planning law.

PROGRAM H 5.A
The City shall continue to support and assist in enforcing the provisions of FEHA, Government Code Section 65008, and any other applicable state and federal fair housing and planning law.

Information on the FEHA, as well as methods for responding to complaints, shall be available at City Hall. The materials shall be bilingual (English/Spanish) and also provided to the City Library and Post Office for distribution. The City’s Housing Commission shall continue to hear Fair Housing issues at its regular meetings.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
In accordance with the Housing Commission’s public meeting schedule.

PROGRAM H 5.B
The City shall work with private organizations in assisting whenever possible in the housing of all at-risk residents, through continued participation by the Housing Authority. To assist persons with disabilities, the City shall publish its reasonable accommodation procedures (as updated) on the Housing and How Do I? pages of its website and distribute the information to local groups and organizations such as Habitat for Humanity to expand outreach to persons in need.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority, Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

PROGRAM H 5.C
Collaborate and coordinate with government agencies such as Fair Housing Council of Riverside County and nonprofit groups such as Habitat for Humanity to support outreach on fair housing issues and solutions, including education on laws regarding reasonable accommodation and expansion of lending programs for homeownership among minority populations. Advertise workshops and webinars held by these organizations on the Housing page and under News Room page of the City website.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

PROGRAM H 5.D
Collaborate with the SunLine Transit Agency to expand services that provide reliable public transportation options to low income, disabled, senior, and other residents with limited access.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually through participation in SunLine Transit Agency Board of Directors.

PROGRAM H 5.E
Conduct a City-side Fair Housing Assessment (FHA) to include an assessment of fair housing issues, enforcement, outreach, and future goals and opportunities. The FHA shall be prepared consistent with HUD’s Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Final Rule Guidebook (December 2015) and/or other guidance
recommended by HCD.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Every two years with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

PROGRAM H 5.F
To expand outreach and public input on fair housing issues, the City shall hold an annual workshop on affirmatively furthering fair housing (AFFH). The City should continue outreach to and invite disadvantaged groups, local activist groups and affordable housing developers, and advertise the AFFH workshop bilingually through various channels such as City website, social media sites, and at City Hall/Library/Post Office.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with Housing Element status report.

POLICY H 6
The City shall strive to meet the state-mandated special shelter needs of senior citizens, large families, female-headed households, single-parent families, workers employed in Rancho Mirage, farmworkers, the disabled and homeless individuals through the continued efforts of the Housing Authority in assisting private interests in developing housing for all types of households.

PROGRAM H 6.A
Encourage the development of low and moderate income
workforce units in the required affordable housing units within the Section 19 Specific Plan, to provide housing opportunities in close proximity to the Agua Caliente hotel and casino, and other hotels in the vicinity.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Planning Division, Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Establish development strategy 2024-2025. Secure
entitlements.2026-2027. Construction & Occupancy 2028-
2029
9-207

28 PROGRAM H 6.B
To provide new housing choices in high resources areas near employment opportunities, the City shall develop an incentive program, which could include fee waivers, expedited processing and density bonus provisions for Planning Areas 4.01, 4.02 and

4.03 of the Section 19 Specific Plan. The Housing Authority will meet with the landowner of these planning areas, and coordinate with affordable housing developers, including CHOC, CVHC and others, to develop projects for these Planning Areas.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department, Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
2022-2023 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update; through
Desert Valley Builders Association meetings, individual meetings with developers, and other appropriate parties.

PROGRAM H 6.C
The City will develop a package of incentives, including fee waivers and application streamlining, for projects which include housing for special needs, including the physically and developmentally disabled, the elderly and farmworkers. The incentives will be marketed to the affordable housing development community at annual outreach meetings, when projects are proposed, and through the City’s Economic Development website.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Planning Division, Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Establish incentive programs 2023. Post to website 2023. Annual developer meetings thereafter, and when development projects are proposed for affordable units.

PROGRAM H 6.D
The City will annually allocate funds to support regional efforts to eliminate homelessness, including contributions to existing shelters, CVAG’s homelessness programs, and additional opportunities as they develop.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
City Manager’s Office

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of budget.

POLICY H 7
The City shall encourage the protection of existing affordable senior housing units.

PROGRAM H 7.A
The City shall monitor existing mobile home parks, and shall consider the allocation of General Fund and/or Housing Authority funds to correct health and safety concerns as they arise.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Code Compliance Division, Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of the budget, subject to available funding.

PROGRAM H 7.B
The City shall monitor existing senior apartment buildings, and shall consider the allocation of General Fund and Housing Authority funds to correct health and safety concerns as they arise.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Code Compliance Division, Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of the budget, subject to available funding.

POLICY H 8
The City’s mandated fair share of affordable housing shall be maintained by resale and rental restrictions, applicant screenings, and other appropriate mechanisms established as conditions of approval for new affordable housing projects.

POLICY H 9
The Housing Authority shall pursue the development of 1,073 extremely low, very low, low and moderate income units in this planning period.

PROGRAM H 9.A
The City shall apply the High Density Residential (R-H) zoning to the Rancho Palms MHP site. In addition, once adopted, the Affordable Housing Overlay shall be applied to both Rancho Palms and Monterey Village. The Housing Authority shall consider all available tools to leverage future development of the sites to provide diverse housing products in these high resource areas including live/work units and units affordable to very low and low income families, and shall work with private development entities to secure the total funding necessary.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Planning Department, Housing Authority, Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2022 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 9.B
The Housing Authority shall give family households first priority for extremely low, very low and low-income units.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
2021-2029

POLICY H 10
The City may, whenever it deems feasible and necessary, reduce, subsidize or defer development fees to facilitate the development of affordable housing.

PROGRAM H 10.A
The City will include an analysis of fee reduction, subsidy or deferral in staff reports for affordable housing projects, to facilitate the Council’s consideration of same on a case-by-case basis.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
As projects are proposed.

POLICY H 11
The City shall apply its density bonus provisions to all qualifying affordable housing projects.

POLICY H 12
The City shall provide up to 1,120 units for extremely low, very low, or low income households in Planning Areas 4.01, 4.02, or 4.03 of the Section 19 Specific Plan.

PROGRAM H 12.A
The minimum 20 unit per acre requirement (Government Code Section 65583.2 (h) & (i)) shall be maintained in the Section 19 Specific Plan for Planning Areas 4.01,4.02 and 4.03 consistent with Government Code Section 65583.2(c)(3)(B).

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Development Services Department

SCHEDULE
2021-2029

PROGRAM H 12.B
To facilitate the development of housing for lower-income households in the Section 19 Specific Plan area, the City will encourage further land divisions to result in parcel sizes that facilitate multifamily development affordable to lower income households in light of state, federal and local financing programs (i.e., 50-100 units). The City will offer incentives for the development of affordable housing including but not limited to:
priority to processing subdivision maps that include affordable housing units, expedited review for the subdivision of larger sites into buildable lots, financial assistance (based on availability of federal, state, local foundations, and private housing funds).

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
2021-2029 - As projects are proposed.

POLICY H 13
To prevent disinvestment-based displacement, the City will seek funding to assist existing extremely low, very low and low-income households in maintaining their homes in a safe and habitable condition. 9-208

Housing Element

29 PROGRAM H 13.A
The Housing Authority shall consider reinstating the Home Improvement Program, subject to available funding, to provide financial assistance to lower income households, as described in Rehabilitation Needs. Funding sources could include CDBG, HUD Home funds, and other grant and loan programs.

RESPONSIBLE AGENCY
Housing Authority

SCHEDULE
Annually with adoption of the budget, subject to available funding.

POLICY H 14
Relocation assistance shall be provided to lower income households who are displaced by public or private redevelopment activities as mandated by the state.
9-209

Housing Element
City of Rancho Mirage
Housing Element Update
Appendix A
AFFH 9-210

1 Housing Element
Element
Fair Housing Assessment

The California Fair Employment and Housing Act generally prohibits housing discrimination with respect to race, color, religion, sex, gender, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, national origin, ancestry, familial status, source of income, disability, genetic information, or veteran or military status. AB 686 requires the City to include an Assessment of Fair Housing (AFH) consistent with the core elements of the analysis required by the federal Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing (AFFH) Final Rule of July 16, 2015. Under state law, AFFH means “taking meaningful actions, in addition to combatting discrimination, that overcome patterns of segregation and foster inclusive communities free from barriers that restrict access to opportunity based on protected characteristics.”.

The City has completed the following:

1. Include a Program that Affirmatively Furthers Fair Housing and Promotes Housing Opportunities throughout the Community for Protected Classes (applies to housing elements beginning January 1, 2019).

2. Conduct an Assessment of Fair Housing, which includes a summary of fair housing issues, an analysis of available federal, state, and local data and local knowledge to identify fair housing issues, and an assessment of the contributing factors for the fair housing issues.

3. Prepare the Housing Element Land Inventory and Identification of Sites through the Lens of Affirmatively Furthering Fair Housing.

To comply with AB 686, the City has completed the following outreach and analysis.

Outreach
As discussed in the Public Participation section of this Housing Element, the City conducted a public workshop, a Housing Commission workshop, City Council study sessions, and public hearings. Although some of these were conducted before HCD’s AFFH memo was published in April 2021, the City endeavored to reach out to all segments of the community and focused on discussion of housing needs of special need groups and typically hard to reach groups, consistent with the guidelines on AFFH outreach. The first workshop was conducted on January 13, 2021 and included a short presentation on the basic requirements of Housing Elements and the update process, followed by a
conversation with the participants. The workshop focused on collecting information from the public on the housing needs of Rancho Mirage, including those of special needs groups and typically hard to reach groups. Representatives of seven developers registered, and there was active participation by representatives of affordable housing developers active in the valley. A second workshop conducted with the Housing
Commission on February 10, 2021 received similar comments: the developers indicated interest in building more affordable housing in the City and general concerns on the length of the project approval process to fit in with tax credit and other funding time limits as well as possible NIMBY objection from the community.

Solutions to these concerns include case-by-case accommodation of project approval timeframes, and better public inclusion and outreach in affordable housing development processes to provide quality and compatible design and ease public concerns.

The City advertised the Housing Element workshops in the display advertising section of the Desert Sun newspaper, emailed notices to affordable housing development entities and local activist groups, including the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition, Habitat for Humanity, Community Housing Opportunities Corporation and Lift to Rise, and posted the notice on its website.

Upon incorporating public comments from the workshops and conducting an assessment of fair housing in accordance with state law and HCD guidance, the City posted its Housing Element on the City website from September 7 to September 21, 2021, and concurrently sent an email blast to all workshop invitees asking for review and comment, as well as posting notice of the review on its website and social media sites. Despite the extensive outreach efforts, the City did not receive any comments specifically on the assessment of fair housing or the Housing Element in general.

A study session with the Planning Commission and City Council was conducted on December 15, 2021. The study session was
advertised on the City website, an e-mail blast was sent out to anyone signed up to receive Planning Commission or City Council notices, and a notice was sent to all workshop invitees. The session included consultant and staff presentations on the Housing Element, particularly the assessment of fair housing, and meaningful discussion between Council members, the public, and
staff/consultant. The local activist group, Lift to Rise, expressed that the City should take seriously the need and more actions to increase housing for working people in the community because people should be able to live where they work, and raised concerns on overpayment and shortage of 17,000 low income units in the valley. Members of the Planning Commission expressed concern over homelessness and City efforts on addressing the issue, and City Council members stressed the housing needs of seniors and the disabled based on local demographics. These comments are addressed in policies and programs of the Housing Element, which range from zoning updates to support emergency shelters, transitional and supportive housing and other housing options (Program H1.C) to facilitating affordable housing development through incentives and rezoning (Programs H1.D, H6.B, and H9.A). One Planning Commission member asked if the City can be more proactive about funding, but given the status quo on funding availability, future development of affordable housing will most likely be joint ventures of City, developer and/or community groups/organizations. This comment resonated with concerns raised by affordable housing developers in previous workshops, and has been duly addressed in the Housing Element draft revisions, especially in policies and programs (Policy H6, Programs H4.C, H6.A, H6.B, H6.C H9.A, H10.A, and H12.B).

Assessment of Fair Housing
California Government Code Section 65583 (10)(A)(ii) requires the City of Rancho Mirage to analyze areas of segregation, racially or ethnically concentrated areas of poverty, disparities in access to opportunity, and disproportionate housing needs, including displacement risk. The 2021 California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) and the California Tax Credit Allocation Committee (TCAC) Opportunity Areas are rated by a composite score of resource levels in the following aspects: access to effective educational opportunities for both children and adults, low concentration of poverty, low levels of environmental pollutants, and high levels of employment and close proximity to jobs, among others. High and highest resource areas are those with high index scores for a variety of educational, environmental, and economic indicators. Moderate resource areas have access to many of the same resources as high and highest resource areas but may have fewer educational
opportunities, lower median home values, longer commutes to places of employment, or other factors that lower their indices for educational, environmental, and economic indicators.
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2 As shown in Exhibit 11 TCAC Opportunity Areas, the majority of the City is considered “High Resource” and the southern end of the City is considered “Highest Resource.” There are two small areas of “Moderate Resource” located along the western border of the City. TCAC and HCD did not designate any portion of Rancho Mirage or its neighbor cities as “Low Resource,” which have the most limited access to all resources.

Areas of high segregation and poverty are those that have an overrepresentation of people of color compared to the County, and at least 30% of the population in these areas is below the federal poverty line ($26,500 annually for a family of four in 2021). The City does not have an area of “High Segregation and Poverty”.

Integration and Segregation Patterns

To assess patterns of segregation and integration, the City analyzed four characteristics: race and ethnicity, disability, income, and familial status.

Race and Ethnicity
The diversity index was used to compare the racial and ethnic diversity within the City and surrounding communities. Diversity Index ratings range from 0 to 100, where higher numbers indicate higher diversity among the measured groups. As shown in Exhibit 12, Diversity Index, the majority of the City has Lower Diversity. The southern and northern ends of the City have a diversity rating of 40- 55 on TCAC’s diversity index. Several areas along Highway 111 have a diversity rating of 55-70, and two small areas in the southeastern corner and along the western border of the City have higher diversity ratings of 70-85. Several areas immediately to the west of the City have higher diversity ratings than anywhere within City limits. According to the 2015–2019 American Community Survey, the majority (81.2%) of Rancho Mirage residents identify as White, non-Hispanic, whereas over half of the residents to the west in Cathedral City (58.6%) and to the north in Thousand Palms (51.3%) identify as Hispanic. While there are not any racially or ethnically concentrated areas of poverty (HUD, 2009-2013) in or near Rancho Mirage, the surrounding communities appear to have higher diversity ratings than the City. The City of Cathedral City to the west, City of Palm Desert to the east, and Thousand Palms, a census designated place to the north all have more areas with a high Diversity Index rating (70-85). However, other tracts in these jurisdictions tend to have primarily White populations and therefore have relatively lower ratings on TCAC’s diversity index. There are several Hispanic Majority tracts in and around Rancho Mirage with higher diversity ratings between 40 and 85. The City is actively pursuing affordable housing development opportunities throughout the City, as identified in Programs H1.E, H4.A, H4.C, and H6.A.

The City will also expand housing options and availability in high resource areas through a pilot program for ADUs and JADUs (Program H2.A) and rezoning to allow higher densities (Programs H1.D and H9.A). These programs may help promote a racially and ethnically integrated community.

HCD has not published the adjusted Racially Concentrated Areas of Affluence (RCAA) methodology for California as of August 2021. While no data has been released on RCAA, the national metric may be referenced for general considerations here: RCAA is defined as census tracts where 1) 80% or more of the population is white, and 2) the median household income is $125,000 or greater (slightly more than double the national the median household income in 2016). As shown in Exhibit 13, Median Income, the northern portion of the City is part of a tract with median income greater than $125,000. Census data reveals that this tract has 76.9% white population that is not Hispanic. The area may have the potential to be a RCAA. Immediately to the east of this tract, the City is actively seeking development in Section 19 to offer affordable housing opportunities in the northern portion of the city under the Section 19 Specific Plan, which includes requirements for affordable 4-bedroom units to support large families (Programs H6.A and H12.B).

Disability
In 2014, only a small area in the western part of the City near Highway 111 and Frank Sinatra Drive had a population with disability percentage higher than 20%. According to the 2015– 2019 ACS, the entire central City (roughly between Highway 111 and Gerald Ford Drive) had a population with disability percentage higher than 20%. This may be associated with an aging population and the City being a destination for retirement and quality healthcare. Between 2010 and 2018, the City population increased by 5.0%, and population over age 65 years increased by 8.7%. The aging trend is also reflected in the median age increase from 62.3 years in 2010 to 66.3 years in 2018. The City complies with all requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act and California Building Code to provide accessible and “barrier free” units for disabled residents. Ramps, stairs, and similar structures necessary for accessibility are allowed by right in the Zoning Ordinance, and the City does not impose any
additional requirements on accessible units and housing for the disabled. Therefore, despite an overall increase in the population with a disability, and a continuing increase in the ageing of the City’s residents, they appear to be well integrated in the community and have equal access to all housing and economic opportunities.

Income
The City also assessed the concentrations of households below the poverty line across the City to analyze access to adequate housing and jobs. As shown in Exhibits 13 and 14, there is a low percentage of residents (10%-20%) who fall below the poverty line ($26,500 for a family of four in 2021) in the central and western portions of the City, and a slightly higher percentage (20%-30%) in two small areas along the western City boundary and near the southeast corner.

This trend has remained steady over time, although the percentage of residents below the poverty line slightly increased from below 10% to 10%-20% in the central City area. As shown in Table 14 of this Housing Element, the City of Rancho Mirage has a vacancy rate of 12.6% for rental units and just 3.9% for ownership units.

Correcting for seasonal or recreational units, which are considered vacant by the Census but are not available or used for permanent ([KLELW'LYHUVLW\,QGH[+Z\+Z\

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3 Housing Element
Element
occupancy, the overall vacancy rate is 8%. These vacancy rates are relatively low and may indicate limited room for mobility and high demand for affordable units.

Familial Status
There is a one tract that spans the cities of Rancho Mirage and Palm Desert in the southeast corner of Rancho Mirage with 40% to 60% of children living in female headed single-parent households.

The City of Rancho Mirage has a higher percentage of children in married-couple households than neighboring jurisdictions. Two- person/couple households are concentrated in a tract (66.6%) in the northeast corner, a small part of which falls in Palm Desert.

These population groups likely need smaller to mid-size units (up to 3 bedrooms); while such units are abundant in the City (over 90% of both owner- and renter-occupied units), affordability may be an issue as suggested by overcrowding, overpayment and rates of poverty described below. There is likely a need for smaller, more affordable housing units to meet population needs.

Additional Local Knowledge and Data
As is the case for the entire Coachella Valley, there has not been policy-based segregation such as redlining in Rancho Mirage. The region is not metropolitan, has a relatively short urban development history (mostly post World War II), and does not have a large African American population (e.g. 2.3% of total City population in 2018) or cultural presence. This coincides with the lack of any apparent segregation patterns. According to the Neighborhood Segregation Map by UC Berkeley (2019), much of the northern and southern City are Latinx-White neighborhoods, the central City is mostly White, and the northeastern City are Asian-White neighborhoods. This is consistent with the racial makeup of the City, with White being the majority group (87.3%), the largest minority group being Asian (5.1%), and Hispanic/Latino of any race taking up 9.8%. The neighborhood distribution is generally shaped throughout the City history and economic development, and has not been affected by public policy in contrast to metropolitan areas. For example, the Asian community in the northeastern City is most likely associated with employment offered by the adjacent Agua Caliente Casino Spa.

Native Americans, mainly the Agua Caliente Tribe of Cahuilla Indians, have dwelled in the area for millennia. After the arrival of Europeans in the 19th century, Rancho Mirage remained mostly an undeveloped desert area dotted with date and grape ranches in the 1920s. Land acquisition and development slowly picked up with the onset of WWII, and rapidly attracted developers and celebrities as a retreat location for its mild winters and more wind- free areas compared to the rest of the valley. The boom of resort and hospitality continued throughout the last century, turning the young City (incorporated in 1973) into a renowned
resort/retirement town with country clubs, golf resorts and supporting services such as specialty retail and high-quality medical facilities. Therefore, as noted throughout this assessment of fair housing and Housing Element, the City’s current development pattern consists of primarily private country clubs, planned residential communities, resort, and retirement neighborhoods.

Given the development history, land availability is a potential constraint to distribution and development of more varied housing choices, including affordable housing. However, the City has managed to locate/acquire existing affordable housing projects including senior housing in high opportunity areas such as the Highway 111 corridor. With the advantage that the majority of the City is rated High Resource, the City endeavors to distribute new affordable housing sites throughout the City given the land availability constraint, as discussed in the Sites Inventory section below.

Assessment and Actions
Given the factors discussed above, there is no evidence of segregation based on disability in the City, but there is potential for segregation based on income and opportunity to improve racial integration within Rancho Mirage. As shown in Exhibits 13 and 14 the concentrations of lower income households are not unique to Rancho Mirage. The City of Palm Desert to the east has more areas with 20-30% population living below the poverty line compared to surrounding areas. In the western Coachella Valley, the cities of Cathedral City, Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs all have areas with 30%-40% of the population living below the poverty line. With a median income higher than the state level in 2019 ($78,682 in Rancho Mirage; $75,235 in California, 2015-2019 ACS), the City is not considered disadvantaged economically (median income is 80% or less than the statewide average), although certain tracts along/north of the Highway 111 are below the threshold). Concentrations of households with similar incomes may suggest a uniform development pattern and need for more varied housing stock. If availability and distribution of affordable housing are improved, it will encourage a more economically diverse community. To that end, the Sites Inventory includes lands in the northwest, northeast and southern portions of the City, to encourage diversity throughout the City’s residential
neighborhoods.

As shown in Exhibit 15, Job Proximity Index, the majority of the City is in close proximity to employment opportunities (Jobs Proximity Index > 80). One area along the western City boundary has a Jobs Proximity Index of 60-80, and the northwest corner of the City has a lower Jobs Proximity Index of 56. In contrast to the TCAC Opportunity Areas (Exhibit 11), this suggests that access to jobs does not seem to be the dominant factor behind the concentration of lower income households, but rather the type of jobs and housing available and other socioeconomic factors.

The City has been actively planning for future development and redevelopment to increase local employment opportunities and housing stock. A variety of new retail, service, and entertainment jobs will be offered across the City, through the following projects:

- The City is updating its Highway 111 Specific Plan, which envisions new development and redevelopment in the
Highway 111 corridor. The Specific Plan update outlines a potential of 1,250,172 square feet of general and
neighborhood commercial, office and mixed use commercial development on the region’s primary commercial corridor, with easy access to transit. The Specific Plan will also facilitate 1,176 potential new housing units.
- The Section 31 Specific Plan (2019) provides for a mix of resort hotel, residential, commercial, and open
space/recreation uses oriented around a Grand Oasis
Crystal Lagoon. The Project would allow development of up to 1,932 residential units, 400 hotel/resort units, and 175,000 square feet of nonresidential development, including combined restaurant and entertainment destinations, retail, and service space.

These future developments will diversify and increase local job opportunities especially for the Highway 111 vicinity and northern City area, and improve job proximity for lower income populations along the western City boundary and Highway 111.

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4 Most recently, the City assisted potentially disadvantaged persons and households by implementing several programs and distributing grants during the COVID-19 pandemic. The City operated a Food Access Program from March 28 through May 29, 2020 to
encourage restaurants to stay open and provide food and non- essentials to residents that had difficulty finding them in local grocery stores. The program distributed $286,000 and helped 42 Rancho Mirage restaurants. The program enabled participating restaurants to serve 168,418 meals, sell 13,768 food items and 5,899 non-essentials. The program also provided 58,776 staff hours and saved jobs that would otherwise be lost due to the shutdowns.

The City ran the Great Plates Delivered program through partnership with local restaurants to provide meals to elderly Rancho Mirage residents, who were considered at-risk for COVID-19 and unable to obtain or prepare meals. During its one year of operation, over 385,700 meals were delivered, featuring nutritious and diverse plates from 21 Rancho Mirage restaurants.

Over 8.48 million dollars was directly expended into the local economy due to this program, providing many jobs that likely would have otherwise been lost.

In January 2021, the City opened the Small Business Grants program to Rancho Mirage based businesses to open back up or fund expenses incurred during the pandemic. Available grant funding up to $10,000 based on employees was given priority to retail, restaurants and personal service. This program helped 53 local business with business expenses and provided $393,000 in relief grants.

In the longer term, the City contributes financially to a wide range of regional organizations that provide housing and other support to homeless and disabled individuals, including Angel View, Hidden Harvest, FIND Food Bank, Martha’s Village and Kitchen, and Jewish Family Services of the Desert. Aside from residential care, Angel View runs an outreach program to provide free services and support to children with disabilities (age 21 and under) in the Coachella Valley and High Desert. FIND Food Bank distributed over 24 million pounds of food in 2020 to over 150 distribution sites, including community agency partners such as soup kitchens, food pantries, religious organizations. Martha’s Village and Kitchen continues to provide meals, showers, emergency housing and employment training while responding to the pandemic through active infection prevention and control.

Through the Emergency Assistance program, they provide over 35,000 crucial units of emergency services to impoverished members of the community annually, and under the Food Services program they also serve nutritional meals to over 6,000 impoverished children and adults each year.

The City actively promotes multi-modal transportation through planning and infrastructure projects. The Highway 111 Specific Plan and Section 31 Specific Plan both delineate future pedestrian and bikeway alignments and improvements within their planning areas. In the Highway 111 corridor, the City received a grant to construct pedestrian/bicycle improvements along San Jacinto Drive, Button Drive, and Indian Trail, as well as install lighted bollards in the roadway pavement surface on San Jacinto Drive to provide a safe walking and biking path. While there are currently no other plans for similar multimodal transportation elsewhere, the City was recently approved for a grant to upgrade 48 pedestrian access ramps along both sides of Bob Hope Drive, from Highway 111 to Ramon Road, to comply with ADA standards. The City also hired a consultant to work on a citywide Local Road Safety Plan to determine other areas where safety improvements are needed.

Access to Opportunity
The TCAC Opportunity Areas identified in Exhibit 11 were reviewed by the City, and one potentially inaccurate designation was identified. The southern end of the City is categorized as “Highest Resource” by TCAC/HCD, which includes primarily mountainous area designated as Mountain Reserve in the General Plan, the Porcupine Creek private estate, and a small area with residential development and vacant land designated for
commercial development. None of these lands have potential for any type of development, including affordable housing
development. Also, the areas identified as “Moderate Resource” are in two tracts (449.16, 409) that partially fall within the boundaries of Cathedral City, and data for these tracts may not accurately describe the portions in the City of Rancho Mirage.

Tract 449.16 is fully built out with residential, commercial, and institutional uses in Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City, and has no potential for affordable housing development. The Rancho Mirage portion in Tract 409 consists of vacant land west of Highway 111, commercial development on the east, and residential
developments north of the Coachella Valley Storm Channel. The vacant land is currently designated for commercial development in the General Plan, and proposed for mixed-use designation in the Highway 111 Specific Plan.

In addition to the Composite Score of TCAC Opportunity Areas shown in Exhibit 11, the City also analyzed individual scores for economic, education and environmental domains. Generally the northern half of the City has the highest score, which indicates more positive economic outcomes. The “Moderate Resource” areas identified in Exhibit 11 score lower in the economic domain, as does the southeastern corner of the City. Areas identified with less positive economic outcomes are found in Cathedral City, Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs and the eastern Coachella Valley.

The northwestern portion of the City has a lower education score, which is also seen in Cathedral City, Palm Springs, Desert Hot Springs and the eastern Coachella Valley. The entire City falls in the highest score range (0.75-1) for more positive environmental outcomes. Areas with less positive environmental outcomes are found in Thousand Palms, Indio, La Quinta and communities further east.

Much of the area that scored the lowest in the Jobs Proximity Index (56) in the northern City is vacant, and is designated for residential, commercial and mixed use development. The City’s perceived areas of opportunity align with HUD’s 2017 jobs proximity data that confirms the majority of Rancho Mirage residents are in close proximity to jobs. However the northwestern reaches of the City seem to have longer commute times and thus a lower Jobs Proximity score (Exhibit 15). The area north of Gerald Ford Drive and west of Da Vall Drive is identified to have slightly suboptimal access to jobs and resources and is inhabited by a concentration of lower income households. This area is fully built out and will have access to increasing job opportunities offered by the Highway 111 corridor and Section 31 area as future development occurs under the Specific Plans. The segregation and integration assessment also finds that certain areas in the Highway 111 corridor are populated by lower income households. As noted, these areas will benefit from new development and redevelopment facilitated by the Highway 111 Specific Plan. The Specific Plan will facilitate higher densities than currently allowed in the corridor, and help provide a varied housing stock affordable to lower income households.

These findings may suggest the following trends:

1. Jobs that are near housing may not meet the needs of the residents located there, creating a jobs/housing imbalance and lower job proximity.

2. Someone may be able to both work and live in an area with a high concentration of jobs; however, they may still only be able to ([KLELW-REV3UR[LPLW\6RXUFH
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5 Housing Element
Element
access positions with low wages and find it hard to afford housing costs.

Existing affordable housing projects are distributed throughout the city. A total of 443 units are available, of which 226 units are owned by the Housing Authority, and 217 units are privately owned with assistance from the Housing Authority or other programs. Four Housing Authority owned projects are located in the Highway 111 corridor: Santa Rosa Villas, San Jacinto Villas and Parkview Villas are located north of Highway 111, and Whispering Waters is located south of Highway 111. Of the three privately owned projects, Rancho Mirage Villa Apartments and Las Colinas are also in the Highway 111 corridor. With abundant retail, transit and services offered within the corridor, these housing facilities enjoy close access to local parks, shopping, restaurants, and the Rancho Mirage Library. Villa Mirage is located at the northwest City boundary, with close proximity to transit, shopping, restaurants, parks and schools to the west in Cathedral City. The City has worked with the owner of Villa Mirage to extend affordability (Section 8 rentals) through 2067.

There are no units at risk of losing affordability covenants in the City.

Policy 15 commits the City to preserving any units that might become high-risk in the future.

With the elimination of funding for previously planned RDA projects and absence of funding for new projects in the Housing Authority, the City is taking a new approach on future affordable housing projects. Similar to other projects in the Coachella Valley, the City will leverage City-owned lands and seek partnership with affordable housing developers. The developers will have access to Tax Credit and other programs through State and federal agencies and compete for these funds.

As described in the Strategy for Meeting Affordable Housing Need section of the Housing Element, the City is seeking development opportunities for the former Rancho Palms Mobile Home Park to provide affordable housing. The City is also updating its Highway 111 Specific Plan to encourage more affordable housing in this high resource area. The Section 19 Specific Plan will reserve 1,120 affordable housing units, and a specified percentage of four-plus bedroom units that can accommodate large families under Ordinance No. 1047 (adopted in 2012).

While no development plans have been proposed, extension of water and sewer lines will continue in the Section 19 area and remove the constraint for development. In the northeast corner of the City, the Monterey Village project was conceived to provide 227 affordable housing units on 25 acres, but has not moved forward due to lack of funding. The City is actively engaging with developers for this site and is seeing positive prospects for affordable housing projects on the site given its location near transit and jobs. In addition, Program H1-D provides for an increase in density on this property, to facilitate affordable housing.

Housing projects in the Highway 111 corridor are well served by SunLine Bus Route 1. While there is limited bus service in the north portion of the City, Program H 5.D calls for City collaboration with the SunLine Transit Agency to expand services to serve low income, disabled, senior, and other residents with limited access.

The City has included actions in Program H2.A to encourage diversity in housing choices in high opportunity areas such as Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and Junior ADUs (JADUs). The City is also removing barriers to a variety of housing choices through rezoning and creating an affordable housing overlay in high opportunity areas to allow higher densities (Programs H1.D, H9.A).

The City analyzed the sites identified for residential development in this Housing Element through the lens of the opportunity areas based on local experience and data from TCAC and HCD. All sites in Rancho Mirage’s sixth cycle inventory (Land Availability, Table 44) are in areas identified by TCAC/HUD as either “High Resource” or “Moderate Resource” areas. Only one site (E) of those identified as appropriate for the lower-income category is in a “Moderate Resource” area.

Disproportionate Housing Need and Displacement
Risk
As discussed earlier in the Demographic Characteristics section of this Housing Element (Table 15), overcrowding is not a significant issue in the City of Rancho Mirage. As of the 2014-2018 ACS, only 1.5% of all occupied units in the City are considered overcrowded, which includes a higher percentage of renter units (62.4%, 88 units) than owner units (37.6%, 53 units). While only

4.8% of all renter households experience overcrowding, over half (56.7%) of renters are overpaying for housing. In 2019, there were 6 unsheltered homeless persons in Rancho Mirage according to the PIT Count for Riverside County. The City allows homeless shelters in the Public (institutional) zone and supportive and transitional housing with fewer than six occupants in residential zones by right. Single-room occupancy units can also be approved in different forms and in numerous zones in the City.

The median rent in Rancho Mirage is out of reach for extremely and very low income renters; however, as shown in Exhibit 16, overpayment by renters in 2019 was not unique to the City of Rancho Mirage and is a chronic issue to be addressed both locally and regionally. As is shown in Table 16 (Overpayment by Income Category and Tenure), as of the 2012-2016 CHAS, between both renters and owners, 80.2% of lower income households in Rancho Mirage pay at least 30% of their income toward housing costs. Regionally, overpayment among renters is especially prevalent (>80%) in the north side of the City of Palm Springs, south side of the City of Desert Hot Springs, and adjacent
unincorporated areas of Riverside County, as well as the south side of the City of Coachella. While the rate of homeowners
overpaying for housing is lower at 37.5% of all owner households, the overpaying rate doubles for lower-income owners (76.6 percent). Overpayment increases the risk of displacement for ([KLELW2YHUSD\PHQWE\5HQWHUV6RXUFH
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6 residents who are no longer able to afford their housing costs.

Regionally, overpayment among homeowners is generally lower than renters and below 80% except a small area in the City of Coachella. As shown in Exhibit 17, regional patterns of overpayment among homeowners in the 2015-2019 ACS
somewhat differ from those among renters. The City of Rancho Mirage has a larger area with an overpayment rate between 60%- 80%, compared to such areas in the cities of Palm Springs, Cathedral City, Desert Hot Springs and Coachella and the unincorporate Riverside County area adjacent to Desert Hot Springs. The City has included all the programs under Policy H6 to incentivize development of affordable rental housing and has included an action in Program H5.C: Fair Housing Program to connect minority populations to lending programs for
homeownership.

Age of Housing Stock
In addition to extensive overpayment, almost two-thirds (62.1%) of the housing stock in Rancho Mirage is older than 30 years, with approximately 37.7% over 40 years old. The age of housing often indicates the need for some type of repair or rehabilitation. The Code Compliance division monitors the condition of housing stock through its site inspection and citation process. During 2014 to 2021, eight single-family homes were cited for substantive rehabilitation or structural issues; all but one of these citations have been corrected with one open case pending. Although this indicates that there are few substandard homes at any given time in the city, the repair costs can be prohibitive such that the owner or renter live in unhealthy, substandard housing conditions or the renter is displaced if the house is designated as uninhabitable and the owner does not complete repairs. To prevent these situations, the City will continue to monitor mobile home parks and senior apartments and consider using available funding to correct any concerns. The Housing Authority will also consider reinstating the Home Improvement Program when funding is available to assist lower income households. The City will continue to collaborate with the County and local nonprofit organizations to target efforts in the rehabilitation, adaptive reuse, acquisition and COVID related assistance programs throughout the City and ensure equal access to the programs across all socioeconomic groups through providing information in more than one language, as needed. (see Programs H7.A, H7.B, H13.A).

Mortgage Loan Indicators
Data related to home loan applications is made available annually through the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, through the Home Mortgage Disclosure Act (HMDA). The data is organized by census tracts rather than local jurisdictions, and thus the following analysis is based on census tracts located entirely within the City of Rancho Mirage (451.03, 449.17, 449.18, 449.21).

Among first mortgage loan applications originated in Rancho Mirage in 2020, 75.3% were made to white applicants. For

17.8% of loans issued, race data was not available. Among first mortgage loan applications originated in Rancho Mirage in 2020, a small number were made to Asian (32, 2.9%), Black or African American (15, 1.3%) and American Indian or Alaska Native (6,

0.5%) homebuyers. These percentages are lower than the
corresponding race distribution of Rancho Mirage, with the exception of the American Indian or Alaska Native group.

Considering the 17.8% of loans with unavailable data on race and geographical area covered in the analysis, the pattern is consistent with the City-wide race distribution. HMDA data combines data on Hispanic or Latino identity within other race categories; approximately 3.5% (39) of 1,123 loan applications that were originated went to borrowers identifying as Hispanic or Latino. The majority (165, 69%) of the 238 loan applications that were denied were denied to white applicants (including 11 borrowers that also identified as Hispanic or Latino). Nine applications were denied to Asian borrowers, and two each were denied to borrowers
identified as Black or African American, or American Indian or Alaska Native.

In 2019, rates of origination to white applicants were slightly higher than in 2020, with 79.3% of the 668 loans originated for home purchases going to white residents. Black residents (1.4 percent, or 9 loans) had about the same share of loans originated in 2019 as compared to 2020, whereas slightly lower
percentages of loans went to Asian (17, 2.5%) and American Indian or Alaska Native groups (1, 0.2%). Race data was not available for 15.3% of first mortgage loans originated. Of the 160 first mortgage loans that were denied in 2019, 66.3% were denied to white applicants (106 loans, including 9 borrowers that also identified as Hispanic or Latino). Six applications were denied to Asian borrowers, nine were denied to borrowers identified as Black or African American, and two were denied to American Indian or Alaska Native borrowers. Approximately 3.6% of loans originated and 8.1% of loans denied were for applicants who identify as Hispanic or Latino, though these loans are also counted within other race categories. Through Program H5.A and H5.C, the City will support agencies and nonprofit groups to ensure equal access to lending programs for people in protected classes including race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, or disability.

Displacement Risk
The Urban Displacement Project (UDP) conducted by the University of California Berkeley and the University of Toronto gears community-centered, data-driven, applied research toward more equitable and inclusive futures for cities, and contributed the Sensitive Communities map to HCD’s AFFH Data Viewer.

Communities are designated sensitive if “they currently have populations vulnerable to displacement in the event of increased redevelopment and drastic shifts in housing cost.” The following characteristics define vulnerability:

• Share of very low-income residents is above 20%; and
• The tract meets two of the following criteria:
o Share of renters is above 40%,
o Share of people of color is above 50%,
o Share of very low-income households (50% AMI
or below) that are severely rent burdened
households is above the county median,
o They or areas in close proximity have been
experiencing displacement pressures (percent
change in rent above County median for rent
increases), or
o Difference between tract median rent and
median rent for surrounding tracts above median
for all tracts in county (rent gap).

According to the Sensitive Communities map on the AFFH Data Viewer, two small areas in the City are designated as vulnerable, which 100% coincide with the areas with 20%-30% of population below poverty level (see Exhibit 14): part of Tract 449.16 on the western City boundary and part of Tract 451.18 in the
southeastern City. Note that Tract 449.16 is split between Cathedral City and Rancho Mirage, and Tract 451.18 is split between Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage. The portions of Tract 449.16 and Tract 451.18 in Rancho Mirage are fully built out with residential, commercial, and institutional uses, and has no potential for affordable housing development. Tract 449.16 is also classified as a moderate resource area with median income below $55,000 in 2019; however, it does not experience more severe
overpayment for either renters or owners compared to most of the City. Tract 451.18 is classified as a high resource area with better job proximity than Tract 449.16 likely due to its proximity to the Highway 111 corridor. Although Tract 451.18 also has a median income below $55,000 in 2019, similar to Tract 449.16, it does not experience higher overpayment for either renters or owners compared to much of Rancho Mirage.

Enforcement and Outreach Capacity
The City reviews periodically its policies and Municipal Code for compliance with State law on fair housing, and enforces fair housing through investigation of fair housing complaints.

While the City of Rancho Mirage regularly updates its policies and codes to reflect changes in State law, it has not completed a City- wide Fair Housing Assessment or comprehensive review of zoning laws and policies to ensure compliance with fair housing law. The City is set to meet housing element deadlines and will prioritize programs with action items on update of the zoning ordinance to facilitate housing. The City has included an action in Program H

1.C to update its Density Bonus Ordinance according to
Government Code Section 65915. Program H1.D requires the City to create an Affordable Housing Overlay and apply it to two sites in the Vacant Land Inventory. Other programs include encouragement of accessory dwelling units (H2.A) and update of homeless shelter provisions to comply with AB 101 (Low-Barrier Navigation Centers) (H2.B). Programs H1.B and H1.C call for an 9-216

7 Housing Element
Element
assessment of needed changes and completion within a year of adoption of the Housing Element. During this review, the City will ensure that the Zoning Code and land use policies comply with state laws and policies to encourage patterns of integration, allow a variety of housing types to meet all needs, and provide accommodations for protected classes.

Apart from zoning and development standards, fair housing issues can also arise from rental, lending and purchase of housing, including discriminatory behaviors by landlords, lenders, and real estate agents. Typical cases range from refusal to grant reasonable accommodation requests or allow service animals to selective showing of property listings based on familial status, sex, religion, or other protected class. The City complies with fair housing law on investigating such complaints by referring discrimination cases to the Fair Housing Council of Riverside County (FHCRC). The FHCRC is a non-profit organization approved by HUD that fights to protect the housing rights of all individuals and works with government offices to ensure fair housing laws are upheld. FHCRC services include anti-discrimination outreach and investigation, mediation of landlord-tenant disputes, first-time homebuyer workshops, credit counseling and pre-purchase consulting, and foreclosure prevention/loan modification services. In Rancho Mirage during the 2014-2021 planning period, of the 100 complaint records, national origin (35, 35%) and physical disability (31, 31%) were the two main bases, followed by race (18, 18%) and sex (7, 7%). Five (5%) records were based on familial status, with two each on mental disability or arbitrary reasons. The race/ethnicity distribution data shows 47% of the records were filed by persons identified as “Other Multiple Race/Hispanic”, 21% from “Black Non Hispanic”, 17% from “White & Hispanic”, and 12% from “White Non Hispanic”. Only 2% of complaints were filed by persons identified as “Asian”, and 1% from “Other Multiple Race/Non Hispanic”. Additional details including case status/outcome were not provided on these records, and thus they are inconclusive to identify any patterns.

HUD’s Region IX Office of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity (FHEO) provided case records for Rancho Mirage in July 2021.

Four fair housing cases were filed with their office during the previous planning period, two based on familiar status, one based on race and the other based on disability. Three of these cases were closed due to no cause determination, and the other was closed because complainant failed to cooperate. All four cases were handled through the Fair Housing Assistance Program (FHAP), in which HUD funds state and local agencies that administer fair housing laws that HUD has determined to be substantially equivalent to the Fair Housing Act. California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) is the only certified agency for FHAP in California. Because state law has additional protected classes than federal law, DFEH may have additional case records. A request was made in July to DFEH, and they provided data on closed cases in Rancho Mirage on
September 10, 2021.

During 2014 to 2021, DFEH recorded seven closed cases that involved three different respondents. Three cases regarding the same respondent were closed due to no cause determination. One case regarding an individual respondent filed on a race basis for denied rental/lease/sale was investigated and dismissed due to insufficient evidence. Of the remaining three cases regarding a common respondent agency, one case filed on the basis of engagement in protected activity for harms of being harassed and subjected to discriminatory statements/advertisements was investigated and dismissed due to insufficient evidence. The other two cases were both filed on bases of national origin, race and religion for denied equal terms and conditions, and were closed due to pre-civil settlement with the respondent.

Riverside County conducted an Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice 2019-2024 (AI) in June 2019. The 2019 AI assessed prior impediments, including lack of available housing and affordable housing, which are found to be market conditions rather than a discriminatory practice or impediment to fair housing.

This finding concurs with the City’s development history and land use pattern, which were shaped by the market rather than policies.

Other prior impediments, such as rental advertising and viewing the unit, credit check/leasing, predatory lending/steering and other lending/sales concerns have been addressed through extensive education, training and other resources offered by the FHCRC and County for various stakeholders in these processes.

Habitability/construction evictions was removed from impediments to fair housing choice due to insufficient public data. The 2019 AI identified a new impediment in County land use policies on transitional and supportive housing, which is irrelevant to the City of Rancho Mirage with its own zoning code. The AI determined that discrimination against persons with disabilities is a standing impediment to fair housing choice. Although the County addressed the issue through education and outreach to housing providers through workshops, audits, information and referrals, nearly 63 percent of all fair housing complaints received by FHCRC during 2013-2018 were on the basis of disability. This finding complements the FHCRC records for Rancho Mirage during
2014-2021, where physical disability (31 out of 100 complaint records, or 31%) was the second most common basis of filing. The 2019 AI recommended that the County and its fair housing service provider should continue and expand education and resources for property owners, managers and residents on laws pertaining to reasonable accommodations and reasonable modifications, which are among leading reasons for discrimination on persons with disabilities. Workshops on housing rights of persons with disabilities, as well as free landlord-tenant services offered by fair housing service providers are also recommended to reduce and eliminate discrimination. These recommendations also shed light on how the City can address potential discrimination on persons with disabilities, which are reflected in Programs H5.C & H5.F.

Overall, given the number of case records and their outcome, the City of Rancho Mirage would have a low potential for any patterns or concentrations of fair housing issues in the City. As suggested by County data, the City ensures fair housing for persons with disabilities through updating and implementing Municipal Code provisions on reasonable accommodation (Program H1.C),
encouraging housing development for persons with disabilities through incentives (Program H6.C), and providing information and resources to residents, property owners/managers and local groups (Program H5.B and H5.C). The City continues to work with agencies and local organizations to affirmatively further fair housing through active outreach and hearing fair housing issues at Housing Commission meetings (Programs H5.A-C).

Sites Inventory
The City reviewed the opportunity area map prepared by HCD and TCAC (Exhibit 11) when selecting sites for affordable housing.

The opportunity area map delineates areas across the state where research has shown there is support for positive economic, educational, and health outcomes for low-income families— particularly long-term outcomes for children. As discussed above, the City also incorporated local knowledge to reconsider the designations and descriptions of areas in the City. Using the statewide opportunity area map with local knowledge input, indicators of segregation, displacement risk, and access to opportunity as overlays to the City’s vacant land inventory, the City was able to identify sufficient sites for Rancho Mirage’s sixth cycle inventory in areas identified by TCAC/HUD as either “High Resource” or “Moderate Resource” areas, with close proximity to jobs (See subsection Land Availability and Table 44). While two sites in the northern City currently have lower scores on the Job Proximity Index, as noted above, they will benefit from future development in those areas including Sections 19 and 31. Of the sites identified as appropriate for the lower-income category, only one is in a “Moderate Resource” area. There are no identified segregation areas in the City.

Many sites are located in the Highway 111 corridor, which shows lower median income and a higher percentage of overpayment for housing by renters in certain areas. However, as noted above, the corridor is well served by the SunLine Bus Route 1 and residents will enjoy close proximity and easy access to schools, public services, healthcare facilities and shopping and other amenities.

Most of the sites are located in the Highway 111 Specific Plan planning area, and the Specific Plan update provides guidelines on multi-modal transportation to enhance local connectivity for all segments of the population. These sites are also near multiple parks and trails, such as the Rancho Mirage Community Park, Blixseth Mountain Park and Roadrunner Trail, to name a few. Therefore, the 9-217

8 location of housing sites in the Highway 111 corridor affirmatively furthers fair housing through close proximity to job opportunities, transit access and other neighborhood serving amenities, which can reduce the overall cost of living for lower-income households.

The Rancho Mirage Elementary School and City library and observatory are also located in the corridor, which provide excellent educational opportunities to families and individuals in the area.

As seen in the vacant land inventory map (see map next to Table 44 in the Housing Element), the sites identified for the inventory are distributed across the City and within different zoning districts, encouraging a mix of housing types across the City. Most of the sites identified for this Housing Element will result in small to large scaled planned development with a mix of densities for moderate and above moderate income levels, as well as housing affordable to lower-income households, located throughout the City. While smaller scale development may be affordable housing only, the larger sites will contain a variety of products for each income category, which combats patterns of segregation and
concentrations of poverty by encouraging mixed income
neighborhoods with a variety of housing types to meet the needs of all residents.

The City also assessed environmental constraints for the sites identified for housing. None of the sites fall within or near fire hazard zones. Most housing sites in the City are located outside the 100-year special flood hazard areas. Site I in the vacant land inventory contains several residential streets that fall in the 100-year flood zone. Future development proposals located in areas that are subject to flooding will need to be evaluated per the General Plan Safety Element policies and programs to minimize potential impacts.

Contributing Factors
Based on discussions with affordable housing developers, community organizations, and the assessment of fair housing issues, the City identified several factors that contribute to fair housing issues in Rancho Mirage, including:

- Low vacancy rates in rental and owner housing units and limited availability of affordable housing options for non- senior, median and moderate income households;
- Potential discrimination faced by persons with disabilities when they seek housing or attempt to maintain their housing, particularly regarding reasonable accommodations;
- Displacement due to various conditions, for example, COVID- 19 resulted in an economic depression and the income
reduction/loss for many households. Other causes of
displacement include increases in rental costs and lack of varied housing stock; and
- Age of housing and the cost of repairs where needed.

This assessment identified the primary barrier to fair housing and equal access to opportunity is the supply of a variety of housing types at affordable prices. The contributing factors identified above are mostly related to the limited supply issue and limited options due to cost, as well as fair housing awareness and discrimination prevention through education and training. In response, the City has prioritized addressing availability of affordable housing and preventing discriminatory practices through education to further fair housing. Policy H5 and associated programs are included to affirmatively further fair housing and take meaningful actions that, taken together, address various housing needs and access to opportunity for all groups protected by state and federal law.

Additionally, the City has incorporated actions to address factors that contribute to fair housing issues through several other programs, as stated in this assessment. (See Programs H1.B-D, H2.A, H4.A, H4.C, H5.A, H5.D, H6.A, H9.A, H9.B, H12.B,
H.13A)
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9 Housing Element
Element
GOAL H 2
Housing to meet the needs of Rancho Mirage’s lower income households and other special need groups, including seniors and persons with disabilities.

GOAL H 4
Affirmatively furthering fair housing to eliminate and prevent potential discrimination and ensure fair housing choice.

PROGRAM H 1.C
The City’s Density Bonus Ordinance (Municipal Code Chapter

Responsible Agency
Development Services Department

Schedule
2022; annually thereafter with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 1.D
To facilitate affordable housing development in high resource areas, the City shall adopt an Affordable Housing Overlay which allows the City to consider up to 28 units by right as a base, not including density bonus provisions, per acre. The Overlay will be applied to both the Monterey Village and the Rancho Palms MHP site (sites B and D of Table 44). The projects proposed for these sites shall be subject to all of the “by right” provisions of Government Code sections 65583, subdivision (c)(1), and 65583.2, subdivisions (h) and (i).

Responsible Agency
Development Services Department

Schedule
Adopt the overlay in 2022.

PROGRAM H 1.F
The City shall adopt an SB 35 application procedure for qualifying affordable housing projects.

Responsible Agency
Development Services Department

Schedule
2022 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

PROGRAM H 4.B
To preserve the existing affordable housing supply, the Housing Authority shall maintain a program for substantial rehabilitation of at least 20 existing rental units owned by the Housing Authority, and shall pursue additional funding when available for other rental units.

Responsible Agency
Housing Authority

Schedule
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

Responsible Agency
Housing Authority

Schedule
Annually through Desert Valley Builders Association meetings, individual meetings with developers, and other appropriate parties.

Responsible Agency
Housing Authority, Development Services Department

Schedule
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

Responsible Agency
Housing Authority

Schedule
Annually with adoption of budget, subject to available funding.

Responsible Agency
Housing Authority

Schedule
Annually with Housing Element status report.

PROGRAM H 6.B
To provide new housing choices in high resources areas near employment opportunities, the City shall develop an incentive program, which could include fee waivers, expedited processing and density bonus provisions for Planning Areas 4.01, 4.02 and

Responsible Agency
Development Services Department, Housing Authority

Schedule
2022-2023 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update; through
Desert Valley Builders Association meetings, individual meetings with developers, and other appropriate parties.

10 provide diverse housing products in these high resource areas including live/work units and units affordable to very low and low income families, and shall work with private development entities to secure the total funding necessary.

Responsible Agency
Planning Department, Housing Authority, Development Services Department

Schedule
2022 with Zoning Ordinance Annual Update.

Housing Element

City of Rancho Mirage
Housing Element Update
Appendix B
Public Participation
Materials
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COMMUNITY WORKSHOP NOTICE

CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE HOUSING ELEMENT COMMUNITY WORKSHOP

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 13, 2021
1:00 p.m.

A community workshop for the City’s Housing Element Update (2021-2029 planning period) will be held Wednesday, January 13, 2021, at 1:00 p.m. via Zoom. At this workshop, the City will discuss background information regarding its upcoming Housing Element Update including new State Housing Element law, the 2021-2029 Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) allocation for the City and take public comments on the Update from those attending. All members of the public are encouraged to attend.

The Housing Element is a series of goals, policies, and implementation measures for the preservation, improvement, and development of housing, which would apply throughout the City.

To participate in the workshop via Zoom, please use the link and meeting information above.

Please RSVP by email to [email protected], by 10:00 a.m. on the day of the meeting (requests received after 10:00 a.m. on meeting day may not be processed). Written comments may be submitted to the City Clerk via email to [email protected], or mailed to 69-825 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270.

Specific questions regarding the workshop or Housing Element may be directed to Marcus Aleman, Housing Manager, at (760) 324-4511 or [email protected].

The City of Rancho Mirage promotes fair housing and makes all programs available to low-income families and individuals, regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, ancestry physical disability, mental disability, medical condition, marital status, political affiliation, sex, age, sexual orientation or other arbitrary factor.

Remote Access Information
Zoom Link:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/88415352196?pwd=OHVtb2poeWNQWFFFSW1acjRUaFJOZz09

Passcode: 225211
Webinar ID: 884 1535 2196

Call-In No.: US: 1 (877) 853 5257 or 888 475 4499

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AB 1486 - List of Developers that have notified the Department of Housing and Community Development of Interest in Surplus Land, Table Range A2:J486 Revised: 12/1/2020 County Organization CalHFA Certified Housing Sponsor?Address City State Zip Contact Phone Email Address RIVERSIDE COUNTY Green Development Company X 251 S Lake Ave #320 Pasadena CA 91105 Andrew Slocum (310) 467-9329 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY A Community of Friends 3701 Wilshire Blvd, Ste 700 Los Angeles CA 90010 Mee Heh Risdon (213) 480-0809 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Affordable Homestead LLC 915 W Foothill Blvd Ste 488C Claremont CA 91711 William Leong (213) 375-8248 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Bibi Foundation 1514 N. Raymond Ave Fullerton CA 92831 Riaz Chaudhary (714) 213-8650 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY City Ventures, LLC 3121 Michelson Drive, Suite 150 Irvine CA 92612 Anastasia Preedge [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Coachella Valley Housing Coalition 45-701 Monroe Street, Suite G Indio CA 92201 Julie Bornstein (760) 347-3157 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Cypress Equity Investments 12131 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 801 Los Angeles CA 90025 Mike Diacos (310) 405-0314 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Decro Corporation 3431 Wesley Street, Suite F Culver City CA 90232 Laura Vandeweghe (310) 595-4421 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Families Forward 8 Thomas Irvine CA 92618 Steven Moreno (949) 552-2729 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Housing Innovation Partners 5151 Murphy Canyon Rd. #120 San Diego CA 92123 Jon Walters (619) 417-5361 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Integrity Housing 4 Venture, Suite 295 Irvine CA 92618 Paul Carroll (949) 727-3656 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Olivecs Foundation 328 E. Commonwealth Ave Fullerton CA 92832 Rubina Chaudhary (562) 972-2786 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY The Kennedy Commission 17701 Cowan Ave. #200 Irvine CA 92614 Cesar Covarrubias (949) 250-0909 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Universal Standard Housing 350 S Grand Avenue, Suite 3050 Los Angeles CA 90071 Eduardo Santana (213) 320-3554 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY USA Properties Fund, Inc 3200 Douglas Blvd Ste 200 Roseville CA 95661 Gabriel Gardner (916) 239- 8458 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Workforce Homebuilders LLC 547 Via Zapata Riverside CA 92507 Tony Mize (951) 530-8172 [email protected]

AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPERS
All Lists National Community Renaissance 9421 Haven Aven., Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91730 CA Tony Mize, VP-Acquisitions 909-727-2783 [email protected], [email protected] All Lists Community Housing Opportunities Corporation 5030 Business Center Drive #260, Fairfield, CA 94534 CA Vince Nicholas
Joy Silver
Charles Liuzzo
Yegor Lyashenko
Minami Hachiya 707-759-6043
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected]
[email protected] www,chochousing.org
All Lists Coachella Valley Housing Coalition 45701 Monroe St, Indio CA 92201 CA Maryann Ybarra 760-347-3157 [email protected] www.cvhc.org All Lists Pacific West 430 E. State Street, Ste 100, Eagle, ID 83616 CA Darren Berberian 949-599-6069 [email protected] www.tpchousing.com RIVERSIDE COUNTY Neighborhood Partnership Housing Services 9551 Pittsburgh Avenue Rancho Cucamonga CA 91730 Jenny Ortiz (909) 988-5979 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Habitat for Humanity for the Coachella Valley 72680 Dinah Shore Dr. #6 Palm Desert CA 92211 (760) 969-6917 [email protected]; [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Coachella Valley Association of Governments 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Ste 200 Palm Desert CA 92260 Cheryll Dahlin (760) 346-1127 [email protected] RIVERSIDE COUNTY Lift to Rise 73-710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 100 Palm Desert CA 92260 Araceli Palafox [email protected] Marcus Aleman
Kristie Ramos, CMC 9-224

Wednesday, January 6, 2021 at 09:41:22 Pacific Standard Time

Page 1 of 2 ends

Rancho Mirage City CouncilFebruary 3, 2022

Rancho Mirage City Council
February 3, 2022