Date: July 19, 2011 Microscopist: Nick Orozco
Micron Ref. No.: 12211077
Cust ID No. Asbestos
Micron in Nn Sample Description / Color natartarl Analytical Results Q.C. 4 Joint Compound/Wall No 100% Mineral Filler
328346 beige
5 Fireproofing
328347 grey
No 40% Cellulose
20% Mineral Filler
40% Vermiculite
X
6 Drywall
328348 white
No 100% Mineral Filler
6 Joint Compound
328349 beige
No 100% Mineral Filler
Microscopist:
The limit of detection for this analytical method is less than one percent asbestos (visual area estimates). CV=0.04 1824
Appendix H:
Resumes
1825
EMG RESUME
LANEICIA A. STONE
Director, Environmental Technical Operations
Education
• Bachelor of Science, Civil Engineering, University of Texas at Arlington, 1993
Project Experience
Landfill, Carrollton, 7X Ms. Stone served as Project Scientist and was responsible for monthly field collection and client reporting of monitoring well and piezometer readings, as well as the surveying of water levels of streams and lakes near the existing two phases of the landfill. Ms. Stone also helped in the permitting of Phase III of this landfill, which included the installation of a High Density Poly - Urethane liner.
Rapid Transit Authority, Dallas, TX Ms. Stone served as a Project Scientist for the remediation efforts, which were encountered during the excavation of contaminated soils for the underground DART system. This project included the field collection of samples and reporting directly to the DART authorities on remediation efforts of contaminated soils. These soils were removed and taken to an off -site location to be remediated and then were incinerated.
NationsBank, Dallas, TX Ms. Stone served as a Project Scientist for the OREO division of NationsBank. Ms. Stone was placed in the environmental offices for NationsBank on a long term contract by her employer, GZA. Ms. Stone assisted in reviewing other consultant's environmental reports for technical accuracy, assisted in closing out deficiencies between these reports and the bank's Scope, and then made appropriate recommendations to the bank based on these reports.
Airports, Houston, TX Ms. Stone served as Project Manager over air monitoring and indoor air quality. Her responsibilities included the air monitoring and PCM sample analysis as well as project management and oversight of asbestos removal at the three city of Houston airports. This job included unlimited security clearance and access to all three airports (Ellington, Intercontinental and Hobby).
Walgreen Facilities (Nationwide) Ms. Stone served as the environmental technical lead for a portfolio of 96 Walgreen facilities. Over half of these facilities had historical gas stations located on the asset lands which required further investigations (i.e.
Phase II Subsurface Investigations and review of State files).
Automotive Dealerships Ms. Stone performed Phase I
Environmental Site Assessments for several automotive dealerships Industry Tenure
• Environmental: 1990
• EMG: September, 1995
Industry Experience
• Office
• Banking
• Industrial
• Retail
• Residential
Active Licenses/Registration
• Certified EPA/AHERA
Building Inspector/205349,
1992
• EPA Model Curriculum for
Residential Lead -Based Paint
Hazard Reduction Act of
1992 (Title X), 1992
• OSHA/40 Hour Health and
Safety Training/29 CFR
1910.120, 1991
• State of Texas Licensed
Asbestos Management
Planner (1995)
• Texas Certified Lead -based
Paint Inspector/Risk
Assessor/Management
Planner, 1999
• CEI — Certified
Environmental Risk Assessor,
Environmental Assessment
Association, 1991
• NIOSH 7400, Microscopic
Identification of Asbestos,
1993
Professional Affiliations
• Society of Women Engineers
(Young Woman of the Year,
1991)
Regional Location
• Baltimore, MD
DUE DILIGENCE FOR THE LIFE CYCLE OF REAL ESTATE.
800.733.0660 • www.emgcorp.com
EMG
1826
throughout the south and southeast as part of a national automotive portfolio. The automotive dealerships had numerous environmental concerns including, underground storage tanks, oil/water separators, and in -ground hydraulic lifts. Based on an evaluation of the automotive sites, Ms. Stone recommended Phase II subsurface investigations to further evaluate the adverse environmental impacts from the various environmental concerns to the subsurface environment.
Historic Building— Ms. Stone performed a Phase I Environmental Site Assessment, limited asbestos survey and lead -based paint survey at a historic building in downtown Houston. Asbestos - containing materials and lead -based paints were identified throughout the facility. The facility developed and implemented an operations and maintenance plan for asbestos and lead -based paint.
Golf Courses (Nationwide) Ms. Stone served as the environmental technical lead for a portfolio of over 100 golf course facilities.
Over half of these facilities had issues including leaking underground storage tanks, unregistered water wells, and contamination resulting from pesticides and herbicides which required further investigations (i.e. Phase II Subsurface Investigations and review of State files).
Sands Hotel (Las Vegas, NT9 Ms. Stone served as the Project Manager for the environmental due c i igence prior to demolition of the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas. Asbestos -containing materials were identified that required abatement prior to demolition. In addition, contaminated groundwater was encountered during demolition, which resulted in the installation of carbon filtration and extraction and reinjection wells to remediate the contaminated groundwater encountered during dewatering efforts. After successful completion of the remediation, the Venetian Hotel was given clearance for development.
Hilton Hotels (International locations) Ms. Stone assisted in the environmental management activities for over 170 Hilton international locations as well as performing onsites for Phase I Environmental Site Assessments and Property Condition Surveys of various Hilton Hotels located throughout Europe.
DUE DILIGENCE FOR THE LIFE CYCLE OF REAL ESTATE.
800.733.0660 • www.emgcorp.com
EMG
1827
EMG RESUME
SARAH SWEENEY
Technical Report Reviewer
Education
• Bachelor of Science in Environmental Conservation at California University of Pennsylvania
• 29 Credits towards Master of Environmental Pollution Control at the Pennsylvania State University
Project Experience
Rental Car Facility, Arlington, VA - Ms. Sweeney performed a Phase I Environmental Assessment for an existing rental car facility, which included a leaking underground storage tank. At her recommendation, a Phase II Subsurface Investigation was conducted. Groundwater monitoring wells were installed at the property to determine groundwater flow and extent of
contamination.
Vacant Land, Charles Town, WV - Ms. Sweeney performed a Phase I Environmental Assessment for 200 acres that was slated for residential development. A pile of asphalt roofing shingles, potentially containing asbestos was found on the property. At her recommendation, the roofing shingles were removed and disposed of in accordance with State and Federal regulations.
Apartment Building, Libertytown, MD - Ms. Sweeney performed a Phase I Environmental Assessment for an existing apartment building with an on -site drinking water well. Through interviews with governmental officials, as well as historical research, she found that the groundwater in the area was contaminated with TCE. She recommended that the well be properly abandoned and the property be connected to the public water system.
Business Park, Hanover, MD - Ms. Sweeney performed a Phase I Environmental Assessment for a business park, which contained four buildings and numerous laboratory tenants.
Hotel, Harpers Ferry, WV - Ms. Sweeney performed a Phase I Environmental Assessment for a hotel that was to be purchased.
The hotel was built in the 1960s and had an on -site wastewater treatment plant. At her recommendation, an asbestos survey was conducted.
Industry Tenure
• Environmental: 2001
• EMG: May, 2002
Industry Experience
• Office
• Industrial
• Housing
• Hospitality
• Retail
Active Licenses/Registration
• Maryland Biological Stream
Survey — Spring 2002
Training
• Maryland Biological Stream
Survey — Summer 2001
Training
• Lead Inspector Technician
Certification, Maryland,
Certificate # 33016 since
2002
• AHERA Asbestos Inspector
Certification, Certificate #
059130 since 2002
Regional Location
• Hanover, PA
DUE DILIGENCE FOR THE LIFE CYCLE OF REAL ESTATE.
800.733.0660 • www.emgcorp.com
EMG
1828
Appendix J
Response to Comments
1829
Responses to Comment Letters Received
on the Draft MND
The Draft MND was circulated for public review from March 11, 2024, through April 9, 2024, in accordance with Section 15105(a) of the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Guidelines. The MND was recirculated from July 22,2024 to August 20, 2024. A total of eight written comment letters were received on the Draft MND from agencies, tribes, and organizations as shown in Table 1. Each of the written comment letters have been assigned an alphanumeric label, and the individual comments within each written comment letter are bracketed and numbered. For example, Comment Letter Al contains one comment that is numbered A1-1.
The responses to each comment on the Draft MND represent a good -faith, reasoned effort to address the environmental issues identified by the comments. Pursuant to Section 15088(a) of the CEQA Guidelines, the City of Rancho Mirage (City), as lead agency, is not required to respond to all comments on the Draft MND, but only those comments that raise environmental issues. In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15088 and 15204, the City has independently evaluated the comments and prepared the attached written responses to any significant environmental issues raised.
Table 1. Comment letters and Commenters
Comment Letter
Commenter
Date Received
Agency
Al
California Department of Fish and Wildlife
April 8, 2024
Tribal Government
T1
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
March 25, 2024
T2
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
August 19, 2024
Organization
01 Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
April 9, 2024
02 Californians Allied for a Responsible Economy
April 9, 2024
03 Oswit Land Trust
August 20, 2024
04 Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
August 20, 2024
05 Californians Allied for a Responsible Economy
August 20, 2024
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Responses to Comments
INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
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Responses to Comments
Stete of Ca m:Arnie - Warta Resources mangy
DEPARTMENT OF FISH AND WILDLIFE
Inland Deserts Region
3002 Inland Empire Boulevard, Suite C-220
Ontario, CA 91784
ur"uWr.4Mlid I�e.c a.AoV
Apri 18. 2024
Sent via email
Ben Torres
Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
69-825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage. CA 92270
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage Project (PROJECT)
Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND)
SCI -k# 2024030267
Dear Bert Torres
Comment Letter AI
4AVIN NEW$0?L Governor
CHARLTON H. 9OMMMC Dkrcyar
The California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) received a Mitigated Negative Declaration (MIND) from the City of Rancho Mirage (City) for the Project pursuant to the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and CEOA guideline5_� Thank you for the opportunity to provide comments and recommendations regarding those activities involved in the Project that may affect California fish and wildlife.
Likewise, we appreciate the opportunity to provide comments regarding those aspects of the Project that CDFW, by law, may be required to carry out or approve through the exercise of its own regulatory authority under the Fish and Game Code.
CDFW ROLE
CDFW is California's Trustee Agency for fish and wildlife resources and holds those resources in trust by statute for all the people of the State. (Fish & G Cade, §§ 711.7. subd. (a) & 1802: Pub Resources Code,, § 21070; CEQA Guidelines§ 15386, subd_ (a).y CDFW, in its trustee capacity, has jurisdiction over the conservation, protection, and management of fish, wildlife, native plants, and habitat necessary for biologically sustainable populations of those species. (id., § 1802.) Similarly, for purposes of CEQA, CDFW is charged by Iew to provide, as available, biological expertise during public agency environmental review efforts, focusing specifically on Projects and related activities that have the potential to adversely affect fish and wildlife resources.
ICEOA is codified irr the Callfornle Puurlc Resources Carle irr section 21000 el sag. The "CErDA Guidelines' are Found in The 14 cif the Caliiamie code or Regulations, commencing Hilt section 15000.
Conserving Cal 1f.Aa ;s Wit t�fe Since 1870
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8.2024
CDFW is also submitting comments as a Responsible Agency under CEQA. (Pub Resources Code, § 21069; CEQA Guidelines, § 15361.) CDFW expects that it may need to exercise regulatory authority as provided by the Fish and Game Code_ As proposed, for example. the Project may be subject to CDFW's lake and streambed alteration regulatory authority. (Fish & G. Code. § 1600 et seq.) 0ikevnse, to the extent implementation of the Project as proposed may result in "take, as defined by State law of any species protected under the California Endangered Species Act (CESA) (Fish & G Code, § 2050 et seq.), the Project proponent may seek related take autherizatien as provided by the Fists and Game Code.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION SUMMARY
Proponent: (Cam Sang Company, Inc.
Objective: The proposed Project is to construct residential units within the Ritz -Carlton Residences section of the Project site (encompassing approximately 200,474 square feet). to Construct 23.840 square feet of venue space, 5,510 square feet of amenity space, and 6,273 square feet of commercial space within the Sky Mesa Recreational Area portion of the Project site fora total project size of approximately 236,750 square feet. The residential suites, hotel villas, and sky mesa uses would include outdoor lighting. A desert landscape} design is proposed throughout the Project site including water cascades, multiple pools, rock escarpments. and fountains Landscaping would be loeated threughout the Project site and between proposed buildings with pedestrian access provided by the on -site pedestrian network.
Location: The proposed Project is located at 88900 Frank Sinatra Drive, approximately
0.85 miles southwest of the intersection with State Route 111 in the City of Rancho Mirage, Riverside County (Assessor's Parcel Numbers 689-G20-012, 68g-020-014, 669- 330-431, 689-330-032, 689-330-034, and 689,331-018). The majority of the 4.5 -acre prciect site is currently vacant and lies east of the existing Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage Hotel, The project site is located in Section 3, Township 5 South, and Range 5 East of the San Bernardino Baseline and Meridian, U,S. Geological Survey Cathedral City 7.5 - minute quadrangle. The Project site is located within the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan area. outside of a Conservation Area, and approximately 350 feet from the boundary of the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area.
Timeframe: The MND does not indicate a timeline for the start of Project construction COMMENTS AND RIECOIMMENDA1tONS
CDFW has jurisdiction over the conservation, protector, and management of fish, vrildlife, native plants, and habitatnecassary for biolergically sustainable populations of those species (i.e., biological resources). CDFW offers the comments and Al -2
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8. 2024
recommendations below to assist the City .in adequately identifying artdfor mitigating the Project's significant. or potentially significant, direct and indirect impacts on fish and wildlife (biological) resources. The MND has not adequately identified and disclosed the Project's impacts (ile., direct_ indirect, and curnulativ0 on biological resources and whether those impacts are reduced to less then significant.
CDEWs comments and recommendations on the MND are explained in greater detail below and summarized here CDFW is concerned that the MND does not adequately identify or mitigate the Project's significant, or potentially significant, impacts to biological resources, CDFW also concludes that the MND lacks sufficient information to facilitate a meaningful review by CDFW, including a complete and accurate assessment of biological resources on the Project site and an incomplete Project description. CDFW requests thatad'ditionat information and analyses be added to a revised MND, along with avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures that avoid or reduce impacts to less than significant
Project Description
Compliance with CEQA is predicated on a complete and accurate description of the proposed Project Without a complete and accurate Project description, the MND likely provides an incomplete assessment of Project -related impacts to biological resources CDFW has identified gaps in information related to the Projectdescnptian.
The MND lacks an adequate discussion of plans for artificial nighttime fighting. CDFW requests that the MND is revised to include design plans for artificial nighttime lighting and lighting specifications. Artificial nighttime lighting can negatively Impact biological resources in a variety of ways its discussed in the Artificial Nighttime Lighting section below. The MND also lacks an adequate discussion of perimeter fencing (or a functionally equivalent structure) that may serve to prohibit the entry of Peninsular bighorn sheep (Ovii cenedensis tretscru) and avoid take of this California fully protected species, as discussed in the Peninsular Bighorn Sheep section. The MND also lacks details an the landscape plants that will be used, specifically plants known to be toxic to Peninsular bighorn sheep
To conduct a meaningful review and provide biological expertise on how to protect biological resources, CORN requires a complete and accurate Project description ExistIno E=nvironmental SSetting
Compliance with CEQA is predicated on a complete and accurate description cif the environmental setting that may be affected by the proposed Project, CDFW is concerned that the as_ smart aril -le existing environmental setting has not been adequately analyzed in the MND_ CDFW is concerned that without a complete and Al-
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
accurate description of the existing environmental setting, the MND may provide an incomplete analysis of Project -related environmental impacts.
The MND lacks a complete assessment of biological resources within the Project site and surrounding area specifically as it relates to burrowing oval (Athene cunicuiane). A complete and accurate assessment of the environmental setting and Project -related impacts to burrowing owl rs needed to both identify appropriate avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures and demonstrate that these measures reduce Project impacts to less than significant.
Mitico 'gin h 4Nsiririps
CEQA requires that an MND Include mitigation measures to avoid or reduce significant impacts. CDFW is concerned that the mitigation measures proposed in the MND are not adequate to avoid or reduce impacts to biological resources to below a level of significance. To support the City in ensuring that Project impacts to biological resources are reduced to less than significant, CDFVV recommends adding mitigation measures for artificial nighttime lighting and Peninsular bighorn sheep, as well as revising the mitigation measures for nesting birds and burrowing owl. 1) Nesting Birds
It is the Project proponent's responsibility to compry with all applicable laws related to nesting birds and birds of prey. Fish and Game Code sections 3503, 3503,5. and 3513 afford protective measures as follows: section 3503 states that it is unlawful to take, possess, or needlessly destroy the nest or eggs of any bird, except as otherwise provided by Fish and Game Code or any regulation made pursuant thereto. Fish and Game Code section 3503.5 makes it unlawful to take. possess, or destroy any birds in the orders Fak oniformes or Strigiformes (birds -of -prey) or to take. possess, or destroy the nest or eggs of any such bird except as otherwise provided by Fish and Game Code or any regulation adopted pursuant thereto. Fish and Game Code section 3513 makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, as amended (16 U,S.C § 703 et seq.).
indirect impacts to nesting birds, Including the loss of nests, eggs, and fledglings if ground disturbing activities occur during the nesting season,' The MND includes Mitigation Measures B1O-3 for nesting birds, which indicates. that "if ground -disturbing and/or vegetation clearance activities are scheduled to occur during the avian nesting season (typically February 15 through August 31). a qualified •biologist shall conduct a preconstruction nesting bird survey within the project impact footprint and a 5O0 -foot buffer". C0FW considers the Mitigation Measure t3IO-3 to be insufficient in scope and timing to reduce impacts to nesting birds to a level less than significant. 0DFW i$ A1-6
Cont.
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8.2024
Pages
concerned about impacts to nesting birds including loss of rrestingtforaging habitat and potential take from ground -disturbing activities and construction Conducting work outside the peak nesting season is an important avoidance and minimization measure.
CDFW also recommends the completion of nesting bird surveys regardless of the time of year to ensure that impacts to nesting birds are avoided The timing of the nesting season vanes greatly depending on several factors, such as bird species, weather conditions in any given year. and long-term climate changes (e.g.. draught, warming, etc ) In response to warming, birds have been reported to breed earlier, thereby reducing temperatures that nests are exposed to daring breeding and tracking shifts in availability of resources (Socolar et al., 20172), CDFWstaff have observed that climate chartge conditions may result in nesting bird season occurring earlier and later in the year than historical nesting season dates, CDFW recommends that disturbance of occupied nests of migratory birds and raptors within the Project site and surrounding area be avoided any time birds are nesting on -site. CDFW therefore recommends the completion of nesting bird surveys regardless of the time of year tc ensure compliance with all applicable laws pertaining tc nesting and migratory birds_ Although the MND includes Mitigation Measure 81O-3 for nesting birds, CIJFW considers the measure insufficientta scope and timing to reduce impacts to a level less than significant. CDFW recommends that the City revise Mitigation Measure BlO-3wrth the following additions in bold and removals in striketra;lg-t Mitigation Measure BIO-3: Nest!!ng Birds
Regardless of the time of year, nesting bird surveys shall be performed by a qualified avian biologist no more than 3 days prior to vegetation removal or ground disturbing activities_ Pre -construction surveys shall focus on bothdirect and indirect evidence of nesting, including nest locations and nesting behavior.
The qualified avian biologist will crake every effort to avoid potential nest predation as a result of survey and monitoring efforts. If active nests are found during the pre -construction nesting bird surveys. a qualified biologist shall establish an appropriate nest buffer to be marked on the ground. Nest buffers are species specific and shall be at least 3110 feet for passerines and Sob feet for raptors. A smaller or larger buffer may be determined by the quahrled biologist familiar with the nesting phentslogyof the nesting species and based on nest and buffer monitoring results. Construction activities may not occur inside the established buffers, which shall remain on site until a qualified biologist determines the young have fledged or the nest is no longer active. Active nests and adequacy or the established buffer distance shall be monitored daily by the 2 Sac:afar Fpanche RN Bactiver SIR and Tingley MN (2n17}. Ph endogial shirts ma -serve thermal rn:het.
Proceedinga of the Mahone' Auade iy ofScienues 114(49} 12s76•t2981 A1-8
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
Page
qualified biologist until the qualified biologist has determined the young have fledged or the Protect has been completed. The qualified biologist has the authority to stop work if nesting pairs exhibit signs of disturbance. n1 inter^ r 1pl evtt+-the---Migrekx $ rd4-ra44 tend-California Fith and Gorno•Code, if ground -disturbing acidlor.vogeta -citearancia,art+4+tioaiace scinoduied to ocour during t av an noctin . ceacon (typica y yobrrary 15 ti.out}-i. Lc.r.ct31), a cue led biolo ict chi oonduot a oroconctucbon noctng bird curvoy within tho aro.oct impao too/print anc a 500 foot buffer w' ers ego! accers ie grantee arounc !lo- cisturbance footpnn- S4rveyr> s1a be cancuctec vntiir caye prior to initiation of ground disturbing activities, fan active nest se detectec curing the nesting oirc survey, avoicance buffer -4 shall be emplerrtanted as determined -by a t uahhet bia ogist (typic3 y 200 feet for Al -B
Cent
topography. ambient cot iitionae,-cpecioc, react loostionr-and-ectivity-ty pe.-Altnec-c c x311 qualified biologist shall halt all oonetruotian activities within proximity to an active moot if it is dctorminor, that tho act'vitios aro tho not anr, may rocu t noet abandonment or to.(c. Tic] quolrflocl bio ogict a'co haw the authority -o roquiro imp emen`.ation o avoicance moasures re atec c noise, vibration, or Fig -it po oboe if indirect ,mpatts ary reeu tug in hairasemon oft enest
Pursuant to the CEQA Guidelines, section 15097(f), CDFW has prepared a draft mitigation monitoring and reporting program (MMRP) for revised MM BIO-3 and MM BiO-•t as well as C DFW-recommended MM BIO-(A] and MM 6IO-[9]. 2) Burrowing Owl
Burrowing owl is a California Species of Special Concern. Take of individual burrowing owls and their nests is defined by Fish and Game Code section 86, and prohibited by sections 3503. 3503.5, and 3513 Fish and Game Code section 3513 makes it unlawful to take or possess any migratory nongame bird except as provided by rules and regulations adopted by the Secretary of the Interior under provisions of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act of 1918, as amended (16 U.S.C. § 703 et seq.). Take is defined in Fish :and Game Code sector 86 as 'hunt pursuit, catch, capture or kill, or attempt to hunt, pursue, catch, capture or kill "
tie flatter portions of the Project sate." CDFW notes that in California, preferred habitat A1-9
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
for burrowing owl is generally typified by short, sparse vegetation with few shrubs,3 and that burrowing owls may occur in ruderal grassy fields, vacant lots, and pastures If the vegetation structure is suitable and there are useable burrows and foraging habitat proxiimity:4 In addition, burrowing awls frequently move into disturbed areas prior to and during construction activities since they ere adapted tc highly modified habilats'.'8 Based on review of historical aerial imagery, the Project site contains sparce vegetation cover and is adjacent to open -space areas that would provide foraging habitat for burrowing owl. The Project site contains suitable habitat for burrowing owl
(Biological Assessment), indicates that"no focused special -status wildlife surveys were conducted ' Given the MND's lack of Findings from a recent habitat assessment and focused surveys for burrowing owl following the guidelines in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mrtiegationr„ the number of suitable and occupied burrows within the Project site and surrounding areas is unknown- Bemuse suitable habitat for burrowing owls exists within the Project site, CDFW recommends the MND is revised to include the findings of focused surveys far burrowing owl fallowing guidelines outlined in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation, Focused surveys for burrowing owl provide information needed to determine the potential effects of proposed projects and activities on burrowing owls, and to avoid take In accordance with Fish and Game Code sections 86, 3503, 3503.5, and 3513, Iffocesed surveys confirm accepred burrowing evil habitat in or adjacent to the Project area, CDFW recommends that the MN D is revised to include an impact assessment per guidelines in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. Impact assessments evaluate the extent to which burrowing owls and their habitat may be impacted, directly or indirectly, on and within a reasonable distance of the proposed Project. Focused surveys and an impact assessment will also inform appropriate avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures tor the Project and help demonstrate that impacts to burrowing owls are less then significant INaug, E A., B. A r4llsap, and M S Martell 19:13. Eumowing owi iSpearyto cunicuvau 1, in A. Poole and F Gill. editors, The Bads all ',forth America The Academy or Natural Sciences, Philadelphia, Pennsyltania, and The Amenran Cmithdagists' Union al aEtunglrrn. D C , USA
4 =-ervais, .I A , D. K Rosank.€rp, R tr. Atithony 2CC,3 Spy rase and pe ticicle exposure risk of made hwreeene o'Ms in an aencurtural landscape Jouanar of Weilife Management 67 155-164.
Chipman E D, N E McIntyre. R. E Strain M C. Wallace, J. D Ray, and C W. Baal 2IX1$. Erfects of humeri land txse an western birrrrr+irva out Foragrog and activity barlwebt, ,Journal of Raptor Re arch rch 42421' 97.99 Caukxnbe, Fl N 1,9711 Behavior and population erOlogy cf the Burromng Crwi, Speafylocurocudaria in the Impenal Valley of California. Condor 7'3:162-11'6.
California Depart meant of Fish and Cisme (CDFG). 201.2. Stafrepart ar'bumowlnn owl mitigation.. State of California, '1 luta1 k'FSg3uNes A ige y Available far download at blira. !1,gww.dfgi t9.qicpv:wikilile' ac�tlitarntolurve,i' mrutonr.ktmi
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
Although the MND includes Mitigation Measure BIO-4 for burrowing owl, CDFVV considers the measure to be insufficient in scope and tinning to reduce impacts to a level less than significant CDFW recommends that the City revise Mitigation Measure BIO-4 with the following additions in bold and removals in ikethreugkr' Mitigation Measure BII04: Burrowing Owl Surveys
Suitable burrowing cwI habitat has been confirmed on the site; therefore, focused burrowing owI surveys shall be conducted by a qualified biologist according to the StaffReport On Burrowing OM Mitigation prior to vegetation removal or ground -disturbing activities. if burrowing owls are detected during the focused surveys, the qualified biologist and Project proponent shall prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall be submitted to C DEW for review and approval prior to commencing Project activities. The Burrowing Owl Plan shall describe proposed avoidance, minimization. mitigation, and monitoring actions. The Burrowing Owt Plan shall include the number and location of occupied burrow sites, acres of burrowing owl habitat that will be impacted, details of site monitoring, and details on proposed buffers and other avoidance measures if avoidance is proposed. If impacts to occupied burrowing owl habitat or burrow cannot be avoided, the Burrowing Owt Plan shall also describe minimization and relocation actions that will be implemented. Proposed implementation of burrow exclusion and closure should only be considered as a last resort. after all other options have been evaluated as exclusion is not in itself an avoidance, minimization, or mitigation method and has the possibility to result in take. if impacts to occupied burrows cannot be avoided, information shall be provided regarding adjacent or nearby suitable habitat available to owls along with proposed relocation actions. The Project proponent shall impiement the Burrowing Owl Plan following CDFW and USFWS review and approval.
Preconstruotion burrowing owl surveys shall be conducted no less than 14 days prior to the start of Project -related activities and within 24 hours prior to ground disturbance, in accordance with the Staff Report on Burrowing Qwf Mitigation (2012 or most recent version), Precanstructian surveys should be performed by a qualified triologist Mowing the recommendations and guidelines provided in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Midge lion. If the preconstruction surveys confirm occupied burrowing owl habitat, Project activities shall be immediately hatted. The qualified biologist shall coordinate with CDFW and prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall be submitted to CDFW and t1SFWS for review and approval prior to commencing Project activities. Pre -cons uction surveys for burrowing ows she be camoc:oc within areas of suitab o habit t (i.e.,. fetter porlJonc o"t-ie site) in accarcance wrth the Ste- Report on furrowing Owl f�kli ipstion (CDFG 2012), with the fiat survey no less than 14 days prior to initiation of A 1-9
giant.
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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1839
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
an active burrowing owl burrow is detaeccfec within 500 feat of t le impact
octprint,
Staff Roport on &crowing -Owl Mitigation guidolinoe or ogrood upon ho California Dopart meat of Rohl and Wildli€e, including irriplornentatien of a non dicturbanco• buffos aril --manila angol ac#_to-oncura aotivttioc ttirc t—lf tho pro oct ,arllt occur vn-nrn this zon4 than wor mutt occur outv;c o t }o ncctiAg cocoon, or urrti can bo shown that tho birdotravo finichoc no cling, at w -nice x con; paccivo re ocotior: may occur.
3) Artificial Nighttime Lighting
The Proposed project will result in new sources of artificial nighttime lighting Page 55 o• the MND indicates that the "residential suites, hotel villas, and sky mesa uses would include outdoor lighting_ While this is a new source of light, existing hotel and the surrounding Mirada residential development already contains night -lighting. All lighting would comply with City of Rancho Mirage Municipal Code Section 17 16.050 (City of Rancho Mirage 2002) for shielding to control glare and prevent light spillover onto adjacent areas." Mitigation Measure BIC-2 indicates the Project will comply with CVMSHCP Land -Use Adjacency Guidelines for Lighting, The MND lacks any additional details on the Project's lighting plans and lighting specifications or additional avoidance and minimization measures associated with artificial nighttime lighting. The Project is located adjacent to open -space areas to the south and north of the Project site —areas that provide suitable nesting, roosting, foraging, and refugia habitat for birds, migratory birds that fly at night, bats, other nocturnal and crepuscular wildlife The Project's proposed artificial nighttime lighting has the potential to srgnificantiy and adversely affect wildlife in the open -space areas adjacent to the Project site. Artifcial lighting alters ecological processes Including, but not limited to, the temporal niches of species. the repair and recovery of physiological function; the measurement of time through interference with the detection of circadian and lunar and seasonal cycles; the detection cf resources and natural enemies; and navigation6 Many species use phatoperiod cues forcommunication ie g., bird songs), determining when to begin foraging1a, behavioral thermoregulationli, and migrehont2_ Photctaxis, a phenomenon • Gatson K J , Bennie, J , Daw , T, Itopbrrs, d 2013 The ecological impacisarnighttime rght pollution- a mectuartrstio appraisal 9r*lcg al Reviews, Sf.4. 12- 27 I Miter, M. Vv. 2655_ Apparent effects °flight potlution on singing behavior or American robins. The Condor 166:150- 139
to stone E L,. G. 3arsee and 6, Harris: Zing. Shut lighting diaturts oc+ntmuting bets. Current Biology 19:1123- 1127
11Beiaverget. R. E 197. t et patterns of aggregatve beha isnn tadpole of Buto amencanus. an teiarDanto light and temperature Ecology 58:8-1008.
v Langresre T and C. Rich. 2011 EaNcigical light pollution -Review Frontiers in Ecology and the environment 2 191-15x8.
A1-9
Cent
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
that results in attraction arid movement towards light, can disorient, entrap, and temporarily blind wildlife species thatexpenence it
CDFVV recommends the MND is revised to include an analysis of the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of artificial nighttime lighting expected to adversely affect biological resources within open -space areas adjacent b the Project site. CDFW also recommends the MND Is revised to include lightning design plans and lighting specifications tc allow CCFW to conduct? meaningful review and provide appropriate biologics! expertise. The ivli+lD includes Mitigation Measure B1O-2, indicating that the Project will comply with CVMSHCP Land -Use Adjacency Guidelines for Lighting, though the MND lacks details on how the Project will comply with these guidelines related to lighting. To support the City in avoiding or reducing impacts of artificial nighttime lighting on biological resources to less than significant, CDFW recommends that the City add the following mitigation measure to a revised MND:
Mitigation Measure B O -(A]: Artificial Nighttime Lighting Throughout construction and the lifetime operations of the Project, the Ctly of Rancho Mirage and Project proponent shall eliminate all nonessential lighting throughout the Project area and avoid or Ilmit the use of artificial light at night during the hours of dawn and dusk when many wildiii!a species a.re most active.
The City of Raneho Mirage and Project proponent shall ensure that all lighting for the Project is fully shielded, cast downward and directed away from surrounding open -space and agricultural areas, reduced in intensity to the greatest extent possible, and does not result in lighting trespass Including glare into surrounding areas or upward into the night sky (see the International Dark -Sky Association standards at http:Ndarks kv.orgl). The City ©f Rancho Mirage and Project proponent shall ensure use of LED lighting with a correlated color temperature of 3,000 Kelvins or less, proper disposal of hazardous waste, and recycling of lighting that contains toxic compounds with a qualified recycler, .d} Peninsular Bighorn Stump
The Project site is located approximately 350 feet from the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area and Essential Habitat for Peninsular bighorn sheep.
Peninsular bighorn sheep is a Covered Species under the CVMSHCF and a California fully protected species per Fish and Game Code Section 4700. Section 13.2 of the Implementing Agreement for the CVMSHCP obligates cities to ensure implementation consistent with the Species Conservation Coals and Objectives in Section 9 of the CVMSHCP, among other obligations. Section 9,8,4,4 of the CVMSHCP indicates that `Bighorn sheep area Celifomia Fully Protected Species. All Covered Activities of the Plan must avoid actions that would result in violation of Section 4700 of the Fish and Game Code that addresses Fully Protected Species." The MND lacks discussion and LO
One
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
mitigation measures on how the City and Project will avoid ' ke of Peninsular bighorn sheep,
In the Peninsular Ranges, a significant number of Peninsular bighorn sheep mortalities have been both directly and indirectly attributed to urbanization, including, but not limited to, mortalities associated with the consumption of toxic plants. the drowning in swimming pools, canals, and other water features, collisions with automobiles, and facilitation of disease and parasite transmission 13 Plants known to be tonic to Peninsular bighorn sheep ancluda, but are not limited to, oleander {Nei -rum oleander), laurel cherry (Frailm rs Sp,) and nightshade (species in the Solanaceae family)", plants Mat should not be used within or near habitat occupied by Peninsular bighorn sheep
the project site including water cascades, multiple pools, rock escarpments, and fountains. Landscaping would be located tlri roughout the project site and between proposed buildings with pedestrian access provided by the an -site pedestrian network" The Project's proposed ,mater and landscape features have the potential to result in take of Peninsular bighorn sheep. The MND lacks a discussion of the plant species that will be used in landscaping and if plants toxic to Peninsular bighorn sheep will be used.
Further, the MND does not indicate if the Project will include a fence or other barrier around the perimeter of the development that prohibits the entry of Peninsular bighorn sheep and their exposure to the Project's water and landscape features. Without :additional details on these aspects of Project design, CDFW is unable to conduct a meaningful review and provide appropriate biological expertise on the topic of the City and Project avoiding take of Peninsular bighorn sheep. CDFW recommends the MND is revised to include discussion proposed perimeter fencing and the plants that will be used and avoided in landscaping.
To support the City and Project in avoiding take of Peninsular bighorn sheep, CDFW recommends the Project incorporates plans for the construction of a fence, wall, or similar structure surrounding the entire Projeotarea that prohibits the entry of Peninsular bighorn sheep and their access to attractive nuisances including water features and landscaping vegetation. CDFW recommends the City revise the MND to include ttie following measure
Mitigation Measure B1C-€B1:: Peninsular Bighorn Sheep Barrier C Forge, J. R. and S. D. Oaterniann. i 3986. Tlrra effects of urbanization on a population of desert bighorn sheep Abstract for The 5-- Annual Conference of Wildlife SocieIy, Buffalo, New York.
U,S, Fish and Wildlife Service. 20,00 Recovery plan for bighorn sheep in the Peninsular Ranges, California. •.1,S. Fish and VWWIdlita Service, PorIIanai, 0R xv+$5t pp_ A1-11
Cont.
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8.2024
Prior to the installation of water features and landscaping, the Project shall construct a fence, or functionally equivalent structure, surrounding the entire Project area that prohibits the entry of Peninsular bird horn sheep. The fence shall be a minimum of 8 feet high, or functionally equivalent, and shall net contain gaps in which bighorn sheep can be entangled. Gaps shall be 4.3 inches or less.
The Project shall maintain a fence, or functionally equivalent structure, as described above, throughout the lifetime of the Project. 5) Larrdscuplrig
throughout the project site and between proposed buildings with pedestrian access provided by the on -site pedestrian network The proposed plant palette would comprise of native, drought -tolerant plantings, consistent vwith the existing hotel landscaping and surrounding areas` No other details are provided in the MND on the Projects proposed landscaping plans. CDFVV recommends incorporation of water -wise concepts in any Project landscape design plans_ In particular, CDEW recommends xeriscraping with locally native California species and installing water -efficient and targeted irrigation systems (such as drip irrigation) Native plants support butterflies, birds, reptiles, amphibians, small mammals, bees. and other pollinators that evolved with those plants More information on native plants suitable for the Project, location and nearby nurseries is available at Calscape. https:llcalscape,orgl, Local water agenciesIcities and resource conservation cities in your area may be able to provide information on plant nurseries that carry locally native species, and some facilities display drought -tolerant locally native species demonstration gardens. Information on drought -tolerant landscaping and water-efficientirrigatron systems is available on California's Save our Water website:
https:lPsavevur. ater,comf. CDFW also recommends that the MND include recommendations regarding landscaping from Section 4.0 of the CVMSHCP 'Table 4- 112; Coachella Valley Native Plants R:eoumrnended for Landsoaping" (pp 4.180 to 4• 182; https/lcvnnshco.orv/Rlan-documents/)
ENVIRONMENTAL DATA
C EQA requires that information developed In environmental impact reports and negative declarations be incorporated into a database which may be used to make subsequent or supplemental environmental determinations. (Pub ResourcesCode, § 21003, subd. (e].) Accordingly, please report any special status species and natural communities detected during Project surveys to the California Natural Diversity Database (CNDLB), The CNNDB fold survey form care be filled out and submitted online at the following link; nttps f/w dlfe.ca.QaviData/CNDDB/Sultirnittinu-pats. The types of information reported to CNDDB can be found at the following link:
https.f/www. wi ld liife.ca. oovirDa to/C N D DBf P Ia nts-and-An i ma Is.
A1-11
Ccnt
A1-12
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8.2024
ENVIRONMENTAL DOCUMENT FILING FEES
The Project., as proposed, would have an impact on fish arxtlur wildlife, and assessment of environmental document filing fees is neceaAnry Fees are payable upon filing of the Notice of Determination by the Lead Agency and serve to help defray the cost of environmental review by CDFW. Payment of the environmental document fling fee is required on order for the underlying Project approval to be operative, vested, and final (Cal, Code Regs, tit 14. § 753.5; Posh 8 G. Code, § 711.4; Pub. Resources Code, § 21089.)
CONCLUSION
CDFW appreciates the opportunity to comment on the MND to assist the City in identifying and mitigating Project impacts to biological resources. CDFW concludes that the MND does not adequately identify or mitigate the Projects significant, or potentially significant, impacts to biological resources CDFW also concludes that the MND lacks sufficient information for a meaningful review of impacts to biological resources, including an assessment of impacts to Peninsular bighorn sheep and Project description. The CEQA Guidelines indicate that recirculation is required when insufficient information in the NAND precludes a meaningful review (§ 15088.5) or when a new significant effect is identified and additional mitigation measures are necessary (§ 15013.5). CDFW recommends that revised MND, including a complete assessment of biological resources (burrowing awl) impacts to Peninsular bighorn sheep, and Project description, be recirculated for public comment. CDFW also recommends that revised and additional mitigation measures and analysis as described in this letter be added to a revised MND.
CDFW personnel are available for consultation regarding biological resources and strategies to avoid and minimize impacts. Questions regarding this letter or further coordination should be directed to Jacob Skaggs, Senior Environmental Scientist Specialist, at jaccb_slkai s.tawiIdl fe_ca cloy
Sincerely,
rirata.iiim.41.7:
F
)d.-9:frEEFOl+CI5
Kim Freebum
Environmental Program Manager
Attachment 1: MMRP for CDFW-Proposed Mitigation Measures e e:
Heather Brasfrear, Senior Environmental Scientist (Supervisor), CDFW Al -14
A 1-15
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
eathar BrashearaWilclife.ca.00v
Office of Planning and Research, State Clearinghouse, Sacramento state_ cteerin ohouseF, oor.ca.00v
,.a
Vincent James. U.S Fish and Wildlife Service
vtncent arnesAttws.pov
Peter Satin. Coachella Valley Conservation Commission
psatinc' cvas.Qr5i
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8.2024
ATTACHMENT 1: MITIGATION MONITORING AND REPORTING PROGRAM (MMRP) Mitigation Measrlree
Timing aid
Methods
Responsible
Parties
Mitigation Measure SIO-3: Nesting Birds
Tlmtng. No fllafil
Than 3 days prior
Implementation:
Crly of Rancho
Regardless of the time of year, nesting bird surveys
lo veyelalion
NI rage and Projeei
shall be performed by a qualified avian biologist no
removal or
proponent
more than 3 days prior to vegetation removal or
ground•disturbing
ground -disturbing activities. Pre -construction
activities.
Monitoring and
surveys shall focus on both direct and indirect
Reporting' City el
evidence of nesting, including nest locations and
Methods: See
Rancho Mirage
nesting behavior, The qualified avian biologist will
MItlgatlon
make every effort to avoid potential nest predation as
a result of survey and monitoring efforts, if active
nests are found during the pre -construction nesting
bits) surveys, a qualified biologist shall establish an appropriate nest buffer to be marked on the ground.
Measure
Neel buffers are species specific and shall be at least 300 Feet for passerines and 500 feet for raptors. A
smaller or larger buffer may be determined by the
qualified biologist ra.millar with the nesting.
phonology of the nesting species and based on nest
and butter monitoring results. Construction activitlex
may not Muir inside the established buffers, which
shall remain on site untll a qualified biologist
determines the young have fledged or the nest is no
longer active. Aetive nests and adequacy of the
established buffer distance shall be monitored daily
by the qualified biologist until the quallfled biologist has determined the young have fledged ©r the Project
has been completed. The qualified biologist has the
authority to stop work if nesting pairs exhibitsigns of disturbance. To
Mitigation Measure BIO-1: Burrowing OwE Surveys
Timing; Focused
Implementation
surveys: Prior Icy
City of Rancho
Suitable burrowing owl habitat has been confirmed
veget&lion
Mirage and Project
on the site; therefore, focused burrowing awl surveys
removal or
propon€nI
shall be conducted by a qualified biologist according
ground -disturbing
to the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation prior
sdivities. Pre-
Monitoring and
IQ vegetation removal or ground -disturbing activities. c0natruct1on
Reporting; City of
If burrowing owls are detected during the focused
Surveys: No Tess
Rantha Mirage
Su r"V*yS, the qualified biologist and Project
Ihan 14 days prior
proponent shall prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that
to alarl of Piqua -
shall be submitted to C1FW for review and approval
related activities
riot to commencing Project activities. The
and within 24
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Responses to Comments
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
Burrowing Owl Flan shall describe proposed
hours prior to
avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and monitoring
ground
actions. The Burrowing awl Plan shall include the
number and location of occupied burrow sites, acres
of burrowing owl habitat that will be impacted, details disturbance.
Methods: See
of site monitoring. and details on proposed buffers
Mitigation
and tithe', avoidance measures if avoidance Is
proposed. If impacts to occupied burrowing owl'
habitat or burrow cannot be avoided, the Burrowing
Measure
Owl Plan shall also describe minimi2ation and
relocation actions that will be implemented.
Proposed implementation or burrow exclusion and
closure should only be considered as a last resort,
after all other options have been evaluated as
exclusion is not in itself an avoidance, minimization,
or mitigation method and has the possibility to result
in take. If impacts to occupied burrows cannot be
avoided, Information shall be provided regarding
adjacent or nearby suitable habitat available to OWls
along with proposed relocation actions, The Project
proponent shall Implement the Burrowing Owl Plan
Following CDFW and USFWS review and approval.
Precanstruction burrowing owl surveys shall be
conducted no less than id days prior to the start of
Project -related activities and within 24 hours prior to ground disturbance, in accordance with the Staff
Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation {2012 or most
recent version}. Preconsiructian surveys should be
performed by a qualified biologist following the
recommendations and guidelines provided In
the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. tithe
preconsbucNpn surveys confirm 4Ccupied b urnwIng
owl habitat, Project activities shall be immediately
halted. The qualified biologist shall coordinate with
CDIW and prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall
be submitted to CDFW and USFWS for review and
approval prior to commenting Project adivltics.
Mitigation Measure BIO-[Aj: Artificial Nighttime
Lighting
Timtrig:
Thrgughoul
Implementation:
City of Ranchn
construction and
Mirage wid Project
Throughout construction and the lifetime operation',
of the Project, the City of Rancho Mirage and Project
Ih© irE3linie
gperalipnu of the
proponent
proponent shalt eliminate all nonessential lighting
Project:.
Monitoring and
throughoui the Protect area and avoid at limit the use
Reporting• City of
of artificial light at night during the hours of dawn
Methods: Sant
Rancho Mirage
and riusit when marry willlite species are roost attive.
Mitigation
The City of Rancho Mirage and Project proponent
shall ensure that all lighting for Fite Project Ja fully shielded, cast downward and directed away from
Measure
A1-16
Cabot.
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
April 8, 2024
surrounding open -space and agricultural areas,
reduced in Intensity to the greatest extent possible,
and does not resufl in lighting trespass including
glare Into surrounding areas or upward into the night
sky (see the International Dark -Sky Association
standards at http:Ildarksky,org0). The City of Rancho
Mirage and Project proponent shalt ensure use of
LED lighting with a correlated color temperature of
3.000 Kelvins or less, proper disposal of hazardous
waste, and recycling of lighting that contains toxic
cornpaunds with a qualified recyeler.
Mitigation Measure 81(7-[B ; Peninsular Bighorn
Sheep Barrier
Timing: Prior to
Implementation.
the installation of
Cdy of Rancho
Prior to the installation of water features and
landscaping, the Project shall construct a fence, or
water features,
and throughout the
Mirage and Project'
proponent
functionally equ 'Vs lens,sirurtiure, surrounding the
irfetine❑lMa
entire Project area that prohibits the entry of
Peninsular bighorn sheep. The fence shall he a
Project,
Monitoring and
Reporting: City of
mtnirn um of 8 feet high, or functionally equivalent,
and shall not contain gaps in which bighorn sheep
Methods: See
Mitigalion
Rancho Mirage
can be entangled. Gaps shall be 4.3 inches or less.
Me:asuie
The Project shall maintain a fence, or functionally
equivalent strrrctufz, as described above, throughout
the lifetime of the Project.
Al -16
Cont.
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INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
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Response to Comment Letter Al
Agency
California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
April 8, 2024
Al -1 The City acknowledges the comment as an introduction to comments that follow. This comment is included in the Final MND for review and consideration by the decision -makers prior to a final decision on the project. No further response is required.
Al -2 The comment identifies California Department of Fish and Wildlife's (CDFW) role as a Trustee Agency and provides a description of its function as a Trustee Agency. The comment does not identify specific issues with the adequacy of the MND. No further response is required.
Al -3 The comment provides a summary of the project description and project location. The commenter incorrectly identifies the acreage, direction of the project site from the existing Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage, and Assessor's Parcel Numbers identified in the MND project description, see Chapter 1, Project Description. The comment uses the project description included in the Project's Biological Resources Assessment dated February 21, 2022. The project description has changed since February 21, 2022, but this does not change the adequacy of the Biological Resources Assessment and does not cause any changes to the MND. The comment does not identify specific issues with the adequacy of the MND. No further response is required.
A1-4 The comment is a preface to the detailed comments that follow and summarizes the concerns. The comment states that the MND has not adequately identified, disclosed, or mitigated project impacts on biological resources. The comment also states that the incomplete and inaccurate assessment of biological resources and incomplete project description prevent a meaningful review. Please see Responses to Comments A1-5 through A1-12.
Al -5 The comment states that the MND lacks an adequate project description, missing an adequate discussion of plans for artificial nighttime lighting, perimeter fencing, and landscape plants.
According to Section 15124, a project description shall reflect the specifics of the project, the project site, and its surroundings, but should not provide extensive detail beyond that needed for evaluating environmental impacts. The Project Description section of the Draft IS/MND includes a detailed description of the project, the project site and its surroundings, and the anticipated operational and construction characteristics of the project. The narrative project description and accompanying figures meet the specifications required by the CEQA Guidelines and provide sufficient detail to evaluate environmental impacts. Discussion regarding the plans for artificial nighttime lighting, perimeter fencing, and landscape plants are not required to be specifically included in the project description.
The comment also notes that an adequate discussion of plans for artificial nighttime lighting, perimeter fencing, and landscaping is missing from the MND in general. As stated in MND Section 4.3, Mitigation Measures, the project applicant shall implement the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) Land Use Adjacency Guidelines as described in Section 4.5 of the CVMSHCP. Therefore, the project does include a discussion of plans for artificial nighttime lighting, perimeter fencing, and landscaping.
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The comment also requests that design plans for artificial nighttime lighting and lighting specifications be included. Please refer to Response to Comment Al -10.
Al -6 The comment states that the MND lacks an adequate analysis of existing environmental setting, specifically as related to burrowing owl. The comment states that an accurate assessment of the environmental setting and project -related impacts to burrowing owl is needed to identify appropriate avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures and demonstrate that these measures reduce project impacts to less than significant.
The environmental setting associated with species is included in the project's Biological Resources Assessment dated February 21, 2022. As discussed in the project's Biological Resources Assessment, a literature review and general biological reconnaissance survey was conducted on June 29, 2021. The Biological Resources Assessment describes the existing conditions of special -status biological resources on the project site (proposed project footprint) and within a 500 -foot buffer where access was granted (study area), quantifies impacts to special -status biological resources that would result from implementation of the project and describes those impacts in terms of biological significance under both CEQA and compliance with the CVMSHCP, and provides recommended avoidance, minimization, and mitigation measures to avoid and reduce impacts to special -status biological resources, if necessary. The burrowing owl, which is covered under the CVMSCHCP, was not incidentally detected during the June 2021 survey and has a low potential to occur within the flatter portions of the study area. Despite having low potential to occur, mitigation measures are proposed to be consistent with the CVMSCHP and Land Use Adjacency Guidelines. Therefore, the project does include a discussion of existing conditions as related to burrowing owl.
Al -7 The comment is a preface to the comments that follow regarding proposed changes to mitigation measures. The comment identifies that mitigation measures for artificial nighttime lighting and Peninsular bighorn sheep as well as revisions to the mitigation measures for nesting birds and burrowing owl are recommended. See Responses to Comments A1-8 through A1-12 regarding changes to mitigation measures.
Al -8 The comment expresses concern regarding impacts to nesting birds including loss of nesting and foraging habitat and recommends that disturbance of occupied nests of migratory birds and raptors within the project site and surrounding area be avoided anytime birds are nesting on site. The comment recommends the completion of nesting bird surveys regardless of the time of year to ensure compliance with all applicable laws pertaining to nesting and migratory birds and provides recommended revisions to MM- B I O-3.
Edits have been made to MM-BIO-3 within the MND to clarify that the pre -construction nesting bird survey shall be performed regardless of the time of year to ensure compliance with all applicable laws pertaining to nesting and migratory birds. Additions to the MND are shown here in underline text while deletions are shown in ctritc irougi text.
MM -B10-3 Nesting Birds.
To maintain compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code, regardless of the time of year, if ground -disturbing and/or vegetation clearance activities are scheduled to occur during the avian ncs ing scasor (typica y Fcbruary ' 5 -hrougi August 31), a Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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qualified biologist shall conduct a pre -construction nesting bird survey within the project impact footprint and a 500 -foot buffer where legal access is granted around the disturbance footprint.
Surveys shall be conducted within 3 days prior to initiation of ground -disturbing activities.
If an active nest is detected during the nesting bird survey, avoidance buffers shall be implemented as determined by a qualified biologist (typically 300 feet for passerines and 500 feet for raptors and special -status species). The buffer shall be of a distance to ensure avoidance of adverse effects to the nesting bird by accounting for topography, ambient conditions, species, nest location, and activity type. All nests shall be monitored as determined by the qualified biologist until nestlings have fledged and dispersed or it is confirmed that the nest has been unsuccessful or abandoned.
The qualified biologist shall halt all construction activities within proximity to an active nest if it is determined that the activities are harassing the nest and may result in nest abandonment or take.
The qualified biologist shall also have the authority to require implementation of avoidance measures related to noise, vibration, or light pollution if indirect impacts are resulting in harassment of the nest.
These changes merely clarify or amplify information already found in the Draft MND, and do not raise important new issues about significant effects on the environment. Revisions are presented in strikeout/underline format in the Final MND.
Al -9 The comment states that suitable habitat for burrowing owl exists within the project site and recommends that the MND is revised to include the findings of focused surveys for burrowing owl following guidelines outline in the CDFW's Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation. The comment recommends that if focused surveys confirm occupied burrowing owl habitat in or adjacent to the project, then the MND should be revised to include an impact assessment per guidelines in the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation.
As discussed in the project's Biological Resources Assessment dated February 21, 2022, Appendix F states that burrowing owl was determined to have a low potential to occur within the project. This was a conservative determination. As noted in Appendix F, the project site did not contain burrows suitable for burrowing owl. The flatter portions of the project were previously graded or disturbed and contain highly compacted soils not suitable for burrows. The remainder of the project site consists of rocky and steep slopes which are not suitable for burrowing owl.
Additionally, the project is a Covered Activity under the CVMSHCP and would receive "take" coverage for impacts to covered species, including burrowing owl. Furthermore, Section 4.4, Required Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures, of the CVMSHCP states, For other projects that are subject to CEQA, the Permittees will require burrowing owl surveys in the Conservation Areas using an accepted protocol (as determined by the CVCC in coordination with the Permittees and the Wildlife Agencies).
The project site is not located within a CVMSHCP conservation area, and the nearest CVMSHCP conservation area, the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area, is located approximately 332 feet south of the project site. Per the CVMSHCP, Section 4.4, Required Avoidance, Minimization, and Mitigation Measures applies only to Covered Activities within the Conservation Areas.
Therefore, focused burrowing owl surveys are not required under the CVMSHCP for Covered Activities Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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outside of the Conservation Area, and only require payment of the CVMSHCP Local Development Mitigation Fee (LDMF), which is a component of CVMSHCP to provide funding of the acquisition and long-term management of conservation lands within the CVMSHCP boundary. Therefore, the project would not conflict with the CVMSHCP.
Finally, as discussed in the project's Biological Resources Assessment, Section 5.1.2.1, burrowing owl is also protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and California Fish and Game Code Section 3516, which protect nesting birds. Implementation of MM-BIO-3, Nesting Birds, and MM-BIO-4, Burrowing Owl, would reduce potential direct impacts to burrowing owl to less than significant.
Edits have been made to MM-BIO-4 within the MND. Additions to the MND are shown here in underline text while deletions are shown in c ri c_hrougp text.
MM-BIO-4 Burrowing Owl.
Pre -construction surveys for burrowing owls shall be completed within areas of suitable habitat (i.e., flatter portions of the site) in accordance with the Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation (CDFG 2012), with the first survey no less than 14 days prior to initiation of project -related activities, and the second within 24 hours of project -related activities. If are burrowing owls or active burrowing owl burrows is are detected, the cualified biologist shall coordinate with CDFW and prepare a Burrowing Owl Plan that shall be submitted to CDFW and USFWS for review and approval prior to commencing project activities. The Burrowing Owl Plan shall describe proposed avoidance, minimization, mitigation, and monitoring actions. The Burrowing Owl Plan shall include the number and location of occupied burrow sites, acres of burrowing owl habitat that will be impacted, details of site monitoring, and details on proposed buffers and other avoidance measures if avoidance is proposed. If impacts to occupied burrowing owl habitat or burrow cannot be avoided, the Burrowing Owl Plan shall also describe minimization and relocation actions that will be implemented. Proposed implementation of burrow exclusion and closure should only be considered as a last resort, after all other options have been evaluated as exclusion is not in itself an avoidance, minimization, or mitigation method and has the possibility to result in take. If impacts to occupied burrows cannot be avoided, information shall be provided regarding adjacent or nearby suitable habitat available to owls along with proposed relocation actions. The project proponent shall implement the Burrowing Owl Plan following CDFW and USFWS review and approval. winin 500 -ee- of the impact -oo-prin-, avoidance anc minimiza_ion m asures cha be imp emen-cd in accordance wi-i _ie Staff Report on Burrowing Owl Mitigation gu.de 'nes or agreed upon by the Ca i-orn'a Dcparmcnt or .sh and W. d -c, inc uding imp cmcn-a-'on of a non cis urbance buffer and monitoring o- tie nest -o ensure ac-ivities Ere not adverse y affecting _he nes - pe project wi occur within -his zone, -hen wo- c mus- occu ' ou-side -he nes-.ng season, or unti 't can be shown that the birds have finished nesting, at which point passive relocation may occur.
These changes merely clarify or amplify information already found in the Draft MND, and do not raise important new issues about significant effects on the environment. Revisions are presented in strikeout/underline format in the Final MND.
Al -1O The comment states that the project proposed artificial nighttime lighting has the potential to significantly adversely affect wildlife in the open -space areas adjacent to the project. The comment recommends a revision to the MND to include an analysis of the direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of artificial nighttime lighting. The comment states that the MND lacks details on how the project will comply with the Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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CVMSHCP Land -Use Adjacency Guidelines for Lighting and recommends the addition of a mitigation measure to a revised MND.
The MND includes MM-BIO-2, which states that the project will comply with the CVMSHCP Land -Use Adjacency Guidelines for Lighting. Per Section 4.5 of the CVMSHCP:
For proposed development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area, lighting shall be shielded and directed toward the developed area. Landscape shielding or other appropriate methods shall be incorporated in project designs to minimize the effects of lighting adjacent to or within the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual.
Therefore, the project is consistent with the CVMSHP related to reducing potential direct, indirect, and cumulative impacts of artificial nighttime lighting within open space (i.e., Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area which is located approximately 332 feet south of the project site).
Nonetheless, edits have been made to MM-BI0-2 within the MND. Additions to the MND are shown here in underline text while deletions are shown in s:ri ce`irougl text.
MM-BIO-2 Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Land Use Adjacency Guidelines.
The project applicant shall implement the following Land Use Adjacency Guidelines (Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan [CVMSHCP], Section 4.5) to minimize and avoid indirect effects from development adjacent to conservation areas (i.e., Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area), where applicable:
• Drainage: Proposed Development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate plans to ensure that the quantity and quality of runoff discharged to the adjacent Conservation Area is not altered in an adverse way when compared with existing conditions. Stormwater systems shall be designed to prevent the release of toxins, chemicals, petroleum products, exotic plant materials, or other elements that might degrade or harm biological resources or ecosystem processes within the adjacent Conservation Area.
• Toxics: Land uses proposed adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that use chemicals or generate bioproducts such as manure that are potentially toxic or may adversely affect wildlife and plant species, habitat, or water quality shall incorporate measures to ensure that application of such chemicals does not result in any discharge to the adjacent Conservation Area.
• Lighting: For proposed development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area, lighting shall be shielded and directed toward the developed area. Landscape shielding or other appropriate methods shall be incorporated in project designs to minimize the effects of lighting adjacent to or within the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual. The City of Rancho Mirage and project proponent shall avoid or limit the use of artificial lighting at night during the hours of dawn and dusk when many wildlife species are most active and ensure use of LED lighting with a correlated color tem Derature of 3,000 Kelvins or less.
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• Noise: Proposed development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area that generates noise in excess of 75 A -weighted decibels sound equivalent level hourly shall incorporate setbacks, berms, or walls, as appropriate, to minimize the effects of noise on the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual. • Invasives: Invasive, non-native plant species shall not be incorporated in the landscape for land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Area. Landscape treatments within or adjacent to a Conservation Area shall incorporate native plant materials to the maximum extent feasible; recommended native species are listed in Table 4-112 [CVMSHCP, Section
4.5.5]. The plants listed in Table 4-113 shall not be used within or adjacent to a Conservation Area. This list may be amended from time to time through a Minor Amendment with Wildlife Agency Concurrence.
• Barriers: Land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate barriers in individual project designs to minimize unauthorized public access, domestic animal predation, illegal trespass, or dumping in a Conservation Area. Such barriers may include native landscaping, rocks/boulders, fencing, walls and/or signage. Existing fencing separating the Big Horn Reserve Land (i.e., adjacent Conservation Area) from the proposed project site was previously installed to prevent Peninsular bighorn sheep from entering and grazing on the Ritz Carlton Hotel oroperty (Le., project). The project shall maintain a fence, or functionally ecuivalent structure throughout the lifetime of the project. Therefore, necessary barriers (i.e., fencing) is currently in place.
• Grading/Land Development: Manufactured slopes associated with site development shall not extend into adjacent land in a Conservation Area.
These changes merely clarify or amplify information already found in the Draft MND, and do not raise important new issues about significant effects on the environment. Revisions are presented in strikeout/underline format in the Final MND. The comment also recommends that lighting design plans and lighting specifications be provided in a revised MND to allow for a meaningful review. Additional details on the lighting design plan and light specification will be provided during the City's Condition of Approval (COA) process.
Al -11 The comment letter states Section 13.2 of the Implementing Agreement for the CVMSHP obligates cities to ensure implementation consistent with the Species Conservation Goals and Objectives in Section 9 of the CVMHSP, among other obligations including Section 9.8.4.4. The comment states that the MND lacks discussion and mitigation measures to avoid take of Peninsular bighorn sheep.
Specifically, the comment states that the MND lacks discussion of the plant species to be used in landscaping and if the proposed plants are toxic Peninsular bighorn sheep. The comment also states that the MND does not indicate if the project will use a barrier fence to prohibit entrance of Peninsular bighorn sheep into the project. The comment recommends a discussion of plants that will be used and avoided in landscaping, incorporation of a barrier fence, and addition of a new mitigation measure in a revised MND.
Section 9.8.4.4 of the CVMSHP states,
Bighorn sheep are a California Fully Protected Species. All Covered Activities of the Plan must avoid actions that would result in violation of Section 4700 of the Fish and Game Code that addresses Fully Protected Species. In Essential bighorn sheep Habitat, the Habitat must be Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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avoided or measures approved by the Wildlife Agencies taken to ensure that no take of an individual occurs, other than projects where Fish and Game Code Section 2081.7 is applicable.
The project is not located in CVMSHP Essential Habitat for peninsular bighorn sheep, nor is the project located with any CVMSHCP designated conservation areas (e.g., Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area is approximately 332 feet south of the project site). Furthermore, Species Conservation Goals and Objectives in Section 9 of the CVMSHCP are specifically related to conserving and managing populations within the MSHCP Reserve System (i.e. Conservation Areas providing Essential Habitats). Additionally, the MND includes a discussion of applicable Section 4.5 CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency Guidelines to minimize and avoid indirect effects from development adjacent to conservation areas that provide Essential Habitat for peninsular bighorn sheep (i.e., Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area).
CDFW also recommends revising MM-BIO-2 to include plans for the construction of a fence, wall, or other similar structure surrounding the entire project area that prohibits the entry of Peninsular bighorn sheep. Existing fencing separating the Big Horn Reserve Land from the proposed project site was previously installed to prevent Peninsular bighorn sheep from entering and grazing on the Ritz Carlton Hotel property (i.e., project). Therefore, MND MM-BIO-2 has been revised to include this information.
Please see MM-BIO-2 in in Response to Comment Al -10.
Al -12 The comment states that page 115 of the MND indicates that the project's "[I]andscaping would be located throughout the project site and between proposed buildings with pedestrian access provided by the on -site pedestrian network. The proposed plant palette would comprise of native, drought - tolerant plantings, consistent with the existing hotel landscaping and surrounding areas". The comment states that no other details are provided in the MND on the project's proposed landscaping plans. The comment recommends incorporation of water -wise concepts in any project landscape plans, including xeriscaping with locally native California species and installing water -efficient and targeted irrigation systems. The comment also recommends that the MND include recommendations regarding landscaping from Section 4 of the CVMSHCP.
MND, MM-BIO-2, CVMSHCP Land Use Adjacency Guidelines, specifically addresses invasive species and provides additional details to the proposed landscaping to ensure consistency with the CVMSHCP.
Specifically, MM-BIO-2 states,
Invasive, non-native plant species shall not be incorporated in the landscape for land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Area. Landscape treatments within or adjacent to a Conservation Area shall incorporate native plant materials to the maximum extent feasible; recommended native species are listed in Table 4-112 [CVMSHCP, Section 4.5.5]. The plants listed in Table 4-113 shall not be used within or adjacent to a Conservation Area.
This list may be amended from time to time through a Minor Amendment with Wildlife Agency Concurrence.
Al -13 The comment states that any special status species detected on the project site would need to be disclosed and populated on the CNDDB Field Survey Forms to be incorporated in CDFW's database of known special status specie occurrences. As discussed in the project's Biological Resources Assessment dated February 21, 2022, no focused special status species surveys were conducted, but no special status or wildlife plant species were incidentally detected on the project site during the general biological survey. Therefore, no entries of special status species into this database will be made.
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Al -14 The comment accurately states that a filing fee to CDFW would be required as part of the proposed project's permit and entitlement process. The filing fee would be paid upon filing of the Notice of Determination by the City for the project.
Al -15 The comment includes concluding remarks and reiterates a summary of concerns. The comment also calls for the recirculation of a revised MND because the insufficient information in the MND precluded a meaningful review, a new significant effect is identified, and additional mitigation measures are necessary.
CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5 provides the legal criteria that a lead agency is to consider when deciding whether is required to recirculate the MND. Recirculation is required when the document must be substantially revised after public notice of its availability. A substantial revision is defined as a new, avoidable significant effect where mitigation measures or project revisions must be added to reduce the effect to insignificant (CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5(b)). The CDFW concerns are addressed in Responses to Comments A1-8 through A1-11 and there are no substantial revisions to the MND. Rather, new information is added to the MND which merely clarifies, amplifies, or makes insignificant modification, which does not require Recirculation of the MND per CEQA Guidelines Section 15073.5(c)(4).
Al -16 The comment includes the recommended mitigation measures in the form of an MMRP. An MMRP was includes as part of the Draft IS/MND. Please see Responses to Comments A1-8 through A1-11.
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AGUA CALIENTE HAND O CAHUILLA INDIAM!f
tweau HITren rw0vwvaaen..
Mardi 25.2024
NIA MAIL TO_beaC Rannhss tirageCAgov
City efRnncho Mirage
Mr. Ben Tories
69-82513iahw y II 1
Rar}+al1n lslirage, California 92270
Re: Ritz -Carlton Expansion NINE)
Dear lrf r. Bea Tortes.
Comment Letter Ti
•
The Aguu Caaliente Hand +al'Caltuillu Indians {AC13 .1) appreciates yoour efforts to include the Trilual I Iistork Pretoemtion Office 11111)0 i in the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mir gc Expansion project. We have reviewed the documents and have the following comments! *Tire language in TCR,CR MM=CUL- I is very confusing and should be rewritten. 'Fite first paragraph states a Native American Monitor will he present during initial ground disturbing activitieµ. Two paragraphs down it is said that if Tribal Cultural Resources arc found then ACBCI still be contacted and asked to provide a Nall., c American hiuuitiar. I!'vve are caul there for initial ground disturbing activities sa'e Should not need to he contacted or asked to provide a monitor. there should al retudy be a contract in place_
Again_ the Agua Caliente appreciates your interest in our cultural heritage. Lt- you have questions. or require additional informatikm. please cull me at ‘760) 423-3485. You may also email me at ACBC1-11-1 P(]rclaguacaliente. net.
Cor'lhall'4.
XiLLn1 ' 1°laeiri i
Cultural Rc noses Analyst
Tribal I lislorin Preservation ation Mut
AGIJA C:ALIENTE BAND
OF CA]-LU1LLA.1NDIANS
5401 rDeerree 61.0PE Gwirt. r•LM 9122/11
r Tal)46b1e•a.0.0 f Tat .its -•sea WWw dSCeAac•41t.M'S i 002 i.Db T1-2
T1.3
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INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK
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Response to Comment Letter T1
Tribal Government
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
March 25, 2024
T1-1 The City acknowledges the comment as an introduction to comments that follow. This comment is included in the Final MND for review and consideration by the decision -makers prior to a final decision on the project. No further response is required.
T1-2 This comment notes that TCR/CR MM-CUL-1 should be rewritten. The comment notes that the mitigation measure is confusing as it states that a Native American Monitor will be present during initial ground disturbing activities and that if Tribal Cultural Resources are found, then the Tribe would be contacted and asked to provide a Native American Monitor. The comment notes that if a Native American Monitor is onsite there initially, there should already be a contract in place if Tribal Cultural Resources are found.
To provide clarity, the City has made the following changes to Section 5.3, Mitigation Measures of the MND.
Additions to the MND are shown here in underline text while deletions are shown in ct'i Kethrougl text.
MM-CUL-1
Prior to the issuance of a grading permit or ground disturbing activities, the Applicant/Owner shall enter into a Tribal Cultural Resources Agreement and Repatriation Agreement with Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians (ACBCI). The purpose of the agreement shall be to formalize protocols and procedures between the Applicant/Owner and the Tribe for protection, treatment, and repatriation of Native American human remains, funerary objects, cultural and /or religious, ceremonial items, and other Tribal Cultural resources.
A Qualified Archaeologist, meeting the Secretary of the Interior's Professional Qualification Standards, and a ACBCI Native American monitor shall be present to attend pre -construction meetings with the general contractor or associated subcontractors. The Qualified Archaeologist and the ACBCI Native American monitor will be present for all initial ground -disturbing activities associated with the current proposed project that may occur in areas of native soil. Both the Qualified Archaeologist and ACBCI Native American monitors may temporally halt or diver round disturbing activities if potential archaeological or Tribal Cultural resources are discovered during construction activities. stop ground -disturbing activities in order to assess any discoveries in the field.
In the event that archaeological resources (sites, features, or artifacts) are exposed during construction activities for the proposed project, all construction work occurring within 50 feet of the find shall immediately stop until a Qualified Archaeologist can evaluate the significance of the find and determine whether additional study is warranted. Depending on the significance of the find under the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines (California Public Resources Code, Section 21082; 14 CCR 15O64.5(f)), the Qualified Archaeologist may exhaust the data potential of the find through the process of field level recordation and then allow work to continue. Isolates are clearly non -significant archaeological resources (as determined by Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
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the Qualified archaeologist, in consultation with the Native American monitor) will be minimally documented in the field. If the discovery proves significant under CEQA, additional work such as preparation of an archaeological treatment plan, testing, or data recovery may be warranted. In the event that curation of archaeological resources is required by the superseding regulatory agency, curation shall be conducted by an approved local facility in Riverside County, and curation shall be guided by California State Historical Resources Commission's Guidelines for the Curation of Archaeological Collections. The Applicant/Owner shall be responsible for all curation costs and provide the City written documentation from the curation facility that the curation have been completed.
If Tribal Cultural Resources (i.e., prehistoric or ethnohistoric-period artifacts, food remains, or features associated with Native Americans) are exposed during proposed project -related ground disturbance, the actions identified by the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians in a preexisting agreement for unanticipated discovery shall be followed con-ac-cd. This agreement may recuire group sia be asted to provide -he se -vices of a —ained the Native American Monitor to return to site consu tan- to monitor ground -disturbing work in the area containing the Native American cultural resources. This monitoring would occur on an as -needed basis and would be intended to ensure that Native American concerns are taken into account during the construction process." These changes merely clarify or amplify information already found in the Draft MND, and do not raise important new issues about significant effects on the environment. Revisions are presented in strikeout/underline format in the Final MND.
T1-3 The City acknowledges the concluding comment and will include the comment as part of the Final MND for review and consideration by the decision -makers prior to a final decision on the project. The comment does not identify specific issues with the adequacy of the MND. No further response is required.
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Comment Letter T2
PIGUA CALIENTE BAND OF CAH'UI1LA IMAM
1111 41, Hisrrmic Prim IFFfatA' lUT
August 19.2024
(VIA EMAIL T[?_bent t' anclioh,lirngo + _govi
ON of Rancho Mirage
Mr, Bra Torres
69-825 High I1 I
Rancho Mirage. California 92270
Re: Rita -Carlton Expansion Recirculated MND
.Dear Mr. Ben Torres.
The Agua Caliente I rid ofCahuilla Indians (ACBCI) approeiates your efforts to include the Tribal' I-Iistoric Pre5;erkation Oil -we (THPO) in the Ritz Carlton Rancho Mirage Expansion project. We have reviewed the documents and have the following comments:
*Please find ACBCI-TI-11-1O cornments in the attachment..
Again_ the Agua Caliente appreciates your interest in our cultural heritage_ If you have questions or require additional infoirnaiian_ please call roc at (76U) 423-'485_ You may also cnta3l nie ai ACBCI-TI-iP0:4', g•uacalientc_net
Cordially-
.,
X 'Italy Matlri gal
Cultural Resources Analyst
"I'rihul Historic Pr rvati a (Nice
C: LIENTE BAND
OT C. 1HT)JLLA INDIANS
34911 fiM*M s picnow Du,Vt. P•1 $A9IMTi4, CA 02264
144,444 6.80© a "SD 4fYsx♦tl#4 tYWa 0G.4C44.,r(41C, *IS% <a CYV T
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Rita -Caritbn Raoecha Mirage
Rctltculated Initial StudyiNltlgated lloaitiva I?aelaratian July 24
Introduction
The City has prepared this recirculated initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration (15./MND} In conformance with Section 15070(a) of the CEQA Guidelines. This recirculated IS/MND includes a description of the proposed project, evaluaton of potentially significant Impacts associated with the proposed project, and Incorporation of mitigation measures into the project design as necessary to reduce or eliminate the potentially significant effects of the project
March 202415/MND
The March IS/MND was circulated for a 30 -day public review period from March 11 to April 9, 2Op4_ The Notice of Availability was posted on the State Clearinghouse webeite, potted with the Riverside County Clerk. and published in the Desert Sun, The IS/MND was also made available for public review at the project site and on the lead agency's webslte, During the public review period, the lead agency received four comment IettEersfrom the 'chewing entities-
- California Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW)
- Aqua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
- Western States Regional Council of Carpenters
- Californians Allied fora Responsible Economy
The comment letters raised issues related to biological resources. air quality, cultural resources, Greenhouse Gases (GHG), and noise, Responses to these comment letters will be Included in the Final IS/MND after the public review period of the recirculated I5/MND has been completed,
Reasons for Recirculation
Pursuant to Section 15473.5 of the CEQA Guidelines. an MND must be recirculated when a major revision is made that discloses a new significant impact or a substantial increase in the severity of a previously identified impact.
CEQA Guide ineW Section 15073.5 (b) defines a. substantial revision as (1) A new, avoidable significant effect is identified and mitigation measures or project revisions must be added in order to reduce the effect to insignificance, or (2) The lead agency cletermines that the proposed mitigation measures or project revision will not reduce potential effects to less than significance and new measures or revisions must be required.
City of Reich Mirage
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RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
JuI 2024
After reviewing the comments received on the March 2024 IS/MND, the lead agency determined that the proposed project would have a potentially significant impact related to air quality that was not ad-equately analyzed or mitigated in the March 2024 IS/MND. The recirculated IS/MND supersedes the March IS/MND and is being recirculated for public review and comment in accordance with Section 15073.5 of the CEQA Cuid8lines- Revisions to the ISIMNDI
In response to the comments received, the .lead agency made revisions to the IS/MND to clarify, correct, or supplement the information presented in the initial document, As specifically requested in the comment letter from Californians Allied for Responsible Economy, a Health Risk Assessment (I -IRA) was prepared to analyze the pro}ect's potential to expose sensitive receptors to substantial pollutant concentrations, The results of this HRA concluded that additional mitigation was required to reduce Impacts to less than significant.
Revisions were also made to mitigation measures MM-BIO.1 through MM-BIO-3 in response to comments made from CDIF N and MM-CUL-1 in response to comments from Agora Caliente Band of Cahullla Indians, These charges merely clarify or amplify information already found in the March 2024 IS/MND, and do not raise important new issues about significant affects on the environment- Revisions are presented in strikeoutlunderline format in the Recirculated MND.
CItx yr Rrncha Mine
T2-2
Cont
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RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratian
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Intentionally Left blank
T2-2
Copt
City ai Rrncha ?Ova 3
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ENVIRONMENTAL INl"G'IAL STUDY
Project Title:
City Project No:
Lead Agersey
Narne and Address:
Applicant
Contact Person;
P110110 Number:
Project Location-
Accessor Parcel Numbers:
331-001;18
General Plan Designation;
Zoning Designation:
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
Ritz-Carkon Rancho, Mirage
EA 21-0002, GPZMA21-0001, MQD21-0004 DA21-0002,
and TPM23-Coot
City of Rancho Mirage
69-825 Highway 111
Rancho Mirage, California 92270
Phone: (76C) 328-2266 Fain_ (760) 324-9851
Kam Sang Company, Inc.
411 E. Huntington Drive, Suite 305
Arcadia, California 91006
Ben Torres
Planning Manager
Phone: (750) 328-2266 X253
The project site occurs along Frank Sinatra Drive approximately
0.85 miles southwest of the Intersection with Highway 1 i 1 within the City of Rancho Mirage.
689-330-026, -281-31, -32. -34: 689.020-012. -14. 689 -- Resort Hotel (Rs -H) and Mountain Reserve «1Rj
Resort Hates (Rs -H) and Mountain Reserve (MR)
4 T2-2
Cont
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RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
kJy_2024
T2-2
Colic
Iniontinnafy left bkn k
City ai Rrncha ?Ova 5
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratian
JuI 2024
TABLE OF CONTENTS
RiJTZ -CA RLTON RANCHO MIRAGE
SAN _ PAGE NO.
CHAPTER 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND DETERMINATION ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 52
ENVIRONMENTAL CI- ECKLISTANC) DISCUSSION, ...,..,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,;,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,;55
1. AESTTNETIC:S 55
1.1 SETTING .............::........ ............ .......:: .... 55
1.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 55
1.3 MITIGATION MEASURES-----.--..---._..._ ........................-- 58
2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES 59
2.1 SETTING 60
2 2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS,,. ..,....,.,,,,,, ,,,,;; ,,,,,,,,,,, ,,,,,,,,,,, , 60
2.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 61
3. AIR QUALITY ..03
3,1 SETTING .. . 3
3.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 12
3.3 MITIGATION MEASURES as
4, BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES _ ,. _ 87
4.1 SETTING .. _ .......................85
4.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS ES
4.3 MITIGATION MEASURES .,,......,.....,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,..................... .................. . . ..... 91 5, CULTURAL RESOURCES ......... .::.. :....................,.................................. ..........,.......................95
5.1 SETTING ...... :,............ ........... ...... :.,:.....,.........,...............:......:... 95
5.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS r 95
5.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 97
6. €NERGY ....99
5.1 SETTING 99
5.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS ................... .............. 100
5.3 MITIGATION MEASURES ...... ..... . ..... _ 108
T. GEOLOGY AND SOILS .... .. .... ..... .. ... .. ... 108
7.1 SETTING 109
7.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 13.0
7S MITIGATION MEASURES 111
S. GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS _ 112
City vt Rrniha ?Ova 6
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1868
RTC -39
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratian
JuI 2024
8.1 SETTING 112
8.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS .... .... ........ 113
8.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 122
FAZARDS AND HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ..... .................... ...... ..... _._.._i.-------.___.......... 124
9.1 SETTING .......... .__,............................. ..................... .............................::. 125 g.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 126
9.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 729
10 HYDRO LOGY AND WATER QUALITY , 130
10,1 SETTING .. .. .... . .. ..... ..... .......... ,.... ...... .. ....... ........... ............ ,....,,,........ ,,„ 131 10 2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS- . 132
10.3 MITIGATION MEASURES..___W..___....__. ,..... . 134 11 LAND USE AND PLANNING, 14O
11.1 SETTING .. 140
Ui2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS .. .. 140
11.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 141
12. MINERAL RESOURCES ....... _ ... 142
12.1 SETTING ,, . ,., , 142
12.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS .... ........... ..........,,,,.,. ..,.................. .., 142
12.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 142
13. NOISE _ 144
13.1 SETTING _. ---.___._.w :................... 144
13.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 149
33.8 MITIGATION MEASURES--_-..._...-......_........................... -._...._...._ 155 14 POPULATION AND HOUSING 160
14,1 SETTING 160
1,42 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS., ..... ..... 160
14.3 MITIGATION MEASSURE3..........,.. ,,,.....,,,,..,. U...,....,,,.,..., 161
15. PUBLIC SERVICES _..,_..___......:........................._e__-----_ _..._...._-_......... 162
15.1 SETTING 162
15.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 168
15.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 164
16. RECREATION 166
16.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 166
16,3 MITIGATION MEASURES 167
17 TRMJSPORTATION ..,..................,.................,,,,,,....,..........,.. ....,,...,,,,,....,,,,,„ 168
17.1. SETTING .. 168
17.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 177
1&_ TRIBALCULTURAL RESOURCES . ...___......... 208
18,1 SETTING ,.,, . 208
CItx ai Rrncha ?Ova 7
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Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1869
RTC -40
Responses to Comments
RItz-Cariton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
JuI 2024
13.2 DISCUSSION OF IhMFACTS 249
la MITIOATECN MEASURES .... . ...... .. „ 200
19. UTILITIES AND SERVICE SYSTEMS 2.13
19_i SETTING ...-_ ...............____r__._... .._i.___----.___..._._.........214
19.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS 214
19.3 MITIGATION MEASURES 211
20. WILDFIRE 21g
20.1 SETTING ,, ,, ,,,, , ,,, , , „ 21g
20.2 DISCUSSION OF IMPACTS: 219
20.3 MITIGATION MEASURES, m...,...,,,,, ,, ,,,,,,,,,„ 220 2i MANDATORY FINDINGS OF SIGNIFICANCE 221
21-1 DISCUSSION CF Ih9PACTS ,,..,.-...... .....,,._.., 221.
2.1_2 MITIGATION MEASURES 222
CHAPTER 3: REFERENCES . ., .... ... .. . . .... 234
APPENDICES
A 1 Air Quality amt. GHG Technkal Report
A 2 Health Risk Assessment. Memo
B Biological Resources Report
C Cultural Report
ID Drainage Study
Noise Study
F1 Traffic Report
F2 Vehicle Hiles Travelled Analysis
Parking Evaluation
H Geotechnical Report
Phase I ESA
FIGURES
Figure 1-1 Regional Map _u _ 19
Figure 1-2 Project Location 21
Figure 1-3 Riiz-Carlton Residences Site Plan ......................... 23 Figure 1-4 S4.y Mesa Recreational Site Plan __,__4 .....q ,„ __• e,.. e R,.., _25 Figure1-5 Evfarrt Venue Elevations ..... ...... m.......................... ...................................... ...,..,..,,, 27 Figure 1-6a Residences Elevations 29
Figure 1-6b Residences Elevations... ......................... . . ..... ............. . .....34 Figure 1-7 Sky Mesa Recreation Area Elevations ,33
CIty ai Rrncha Mine
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Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1870
RTC -41
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Studyi Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
l�Iy_2L724
Figure 1-8 Proposed Access and CFrru1ation 35
Figure 1.3a Landscape Plan for Residences at Ritz Carlton_ 37 Figure 1-9h Landscape Mare for Sky Mesa Recreational Area 39 Figure 1-10 Tentative Parcel Map 41
Figure 1-11a Visual Simulation 1 - Rancho Mirage Entrance 43 Figure 1-1 l b Visual Simulation 2 - Villas of Mirada (Southern Entrance) 45 Figure 1-1 lc Visual Simulation 3 - Villas of Mirada (Northern Entrance) 47 Figure 1-12 Existing and Proposed Land Use Designations 49 Figure 10-1a Existing Conditions. Hydrology Map for Residences at Ritz Carlton 136 Figure 1O -lb Existing Conditions Hydrology Map for Sky Mesa Recreational Area....._ 138 Figure 13-1 Noise Measurement Locations .....156
Figure 13.-2 Noise Measurement Lo€ations ,..158
Figure 17-1 Traffic Impact Analysis (TIA) Study Intersections-, 204 Figure 17-2 Site Adjacent Roadway and Site Access Recommendations., _ . .. 206 TABLES
1-1 Proposed Residential Suite and Hotel Villa Unite Types , ., ,14 3=1 Ambient Air Quality Standards 64
3-2 Coachella Valley Fortiori of the Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment Classlficartion...,....67 3-3 Local Ambient Air Quality Data 69
3-4 SCAQNID Air Quality Significance Thresholds..,...- .................. ........ ......... ....._........ .......71
3-5 Construction Scenario Assumptions ,713
3-6 Estimated Maximum Daily Construction Emissions -Unmitiigatred...............................79 3-7 Estitnated Maximum Daily Operational Emissions 80
3-S Construction Localized Significance Thresholds Analysis 82 6-1 Construction Equipment Diesel Demand ('Off -Road Equipment) . 101 6-2 Construction Worker Gasoline Demand .101
6-3 Construction Vendor Diesel Demand 103
6-4 Construction Haul Truck Diesel Demand 103
6-5 Annual Mobile Source Gasoline Demand ....... .,_................ ................_..... 6-6 Annual Diesel Demand ....................................,.,.........,, ,.,,,,.,,.,,,,...........................:.......,...105 8-1 Greenhouse Gas Emissions Sources in California ,.--113 8-2 Estimated Annual Construction GHG Emissions .115
8-3 Estimated Annual Operational GHG Emissions............,,,.............................................,..117 8-4 Project Consistency with the SLAG Connect SoCal RTP S 119 13-1 Significance Criteria Summary,.......,,.., 145
13-2 24 -Hour Ambient Noise Level Measurements................................................................. 147 cIoy ai Rrncha ?Ova
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Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1871
RTC -42
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlten Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
July_2O24
13-3 Construction Noise Level Compliance 150
13-4 Protect Operational Noise Levels 151
13-5 Vibration Source Levels tor construction Equipment . 154 13-6 Unmitigated Construction Equipment Vibration Levels,. 154 141 Existing and Yrojected Population, Household. and Employment Growth in the Cry of Rancho Mirage,,,, ,,,,, ,,,, 161
17-1 Signalized Intersection Description of LOS .. 170
17-2 Unsignalized intersection Description of LOS .................. 171 17-3 Intersection Analysis for Existing (20f9) Conditions,,,......,,., 176 17-4 Peak Hour Queuing Summary for Existing (2019) Conditions ...... ........ _... . .,....,.,,.177 17-5 Project Trip Generation Summary - Typical Operations 178 17-6 Project Trip Generation Summary - Weekend Special Event 178 17-7 Cumulative Development Project Trip Generation Summary 181 17-13 Intersection Analysis for E+P Conditions 185
17-9 Peak Hour Queuing Sumn-ary for DP Conditions ..187 17-10 Intersection Analysis for EAP (2023) Conditions,„,,.,,,,,,..,..... 190 17-11 Peak Hour Queuing Summary for EAP (2023) Conditions 191 17-12 Intersection Analysis for EACP (2O23) Conditions 193 17-13 Peak Hour Queuing Summary for EAPC (2023) Conditions .----,.----------------------------..:195 17-14 Intersection Analysis for Horizon Year (204O) With and Without Project Conditions 197
17-15 Peak Hour Queuing Summary for Horizon Year (2040) Conditions 199 17-16 Rancho Mirage Citywide Vehicle Miles Travelled per Service Population___ •-- 201 19-1 Water Demand Projections 215
CItx ai Rrncha ?Ova
10 T2-2
Count
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1872
RTC -43
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
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11
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1873
RTC -44
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Car -Item. Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
kily_2024
CHAPTER 1: PROJECT DESCRIPTION
e0ckgrwUnd
In 20!66, an enviQnmeetal impact report (EIRJ waz prepared for the Lodge of Rancho Mirage hotel Expansion Project, which encompassed a total of 39.01 acres Iha'f included the existing Lodge Hotel site, and other developed and entitled lands whhin the lower loathes €yf the soma Rosa Mountains. The 2006 Lodge at Rancho Mirage Hotel Expansion Project EIR 12006 EIRJ included expansion, renovation sand upgrading of the exstng Lodge at Rcancha Menage Hotel the "Hotel"'j, corxtre ction ed new struckees, parking and interior roadways. accessory Puddings, support facilities and infrastructure, landscaping, and demolition of the e:xrsng tennis complex, The 2446SIR de included an amendment to Mhe exetng Development Agreement tor the subject property The 20116 6R analyzed portions at Me Rffr-Cadton Residen•c es site rrf the Ritz -C arltun Rrnchet Pelage Project (the proposed project) analyzed in this mill of Study but did not nnatsrze the Sky Mesa Recreational Area {Fgures 1-1 and f -2j The 2006Lodge at Rancho Mirage Hotel Project ale is located to the southwest of the Sky Mesa Recreation Area IFgure I -2i, The proposed project as analysed in This Prdtial Study is not a tiered dowurnent of the 221166 The Lodge at Rancho Mirage Hotel Expansion Prc3ject EIR because the project analyzed in this initial Study contains on area (the Sky Mesa Recreation Areal not enaiyaed in the 2466 E1P, Addltionaly, the 21:O6 EIR included development of the Tennis Was within the approximately 7.© -acre area IAPN; 639-330-011i across Frank Sinatra Drive from the project site_ the Tennis Villas include the develolpreenl of 80,446 square feet ot rew development inclsxting 25 villas {with o total of 49 keys), outdoor patios, gardens, plunge pool. hot tab. water features, pool bar, a wine cave, a covered golf cart pickup area, equipment, and a 26. if rmderground parking structure onslte, The 25 Vdas would be comprised of 11j one -bedroom suite (1 key I; II two-bedroom'srias (2 keys); [I li two -bedroom suites I2 hays); and (2I Ihree•bedroom suites f2 keys).
The currently proposed project as addressed in firs Indict Study does not atter any portion of the Tennis villas as analyzed in the 20[.16 6P.
-California Enuiranmenlad Qualify Api Compliance
The Clty of Rancho hVrroge {Cityi is the California Environmental Quaity Act ICEQAJ lead agency responsible for the rewnew and approval of the proposed project, The City has prepared this Initial Study pursuant to the iequirements of Section 1 063 of the State CEiA Guidelines to determine Rite! proposed project may have a significant effect an the environment, The purpose of an 1nifiat Study Is to provide the Lead Agency in this case, the City of Rancho Mirage) with intosmafion to use as the heals FPr deciding whether o project may have a 3ignifican! affect on the environment, The Clty will utilize the Initial Study to determine if an EIR or a Negative Declaration is ate apbroprlate environmental review dcurnent tor the proposed project, The Initial Study else enables the applicant or City to modify a project fo mitigated csdvelse impacts before an EIR is prepared thereby enabling the project to quality For a Negative Declatallart In accvrdunce with Section f5063(d) of the State CEQA, Gr delines, this Initial Study contains : a descrptian of the prafedt; an identification al the envionrnental setting an Identification of environmental effects by we of a checkist and expfanutiwt u discussion of ways fa mitigate the slgrwlcant effects lclentiSed, if any; an examination of the project's consistency with existing zoning and plans and the persons who prepared the Initial Study
City ar Rrncha Mig7e 12
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Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1874
RTC -45
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Cartton. Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
1aly_2424
Purpose. se and Nced
the puripose or the proposed project is to construct 48 resldentiaf sullen ((Wilding A -I ) and 54 villas {Buildings B-1 to B•15) within the Riiz-Corkon Residences section of the project site (encompassing approximately 200A74 square feet). to construct 23,8-00 square fees of venue space, 5,510 square feel of amenity space, and 6.273 square feet of commercial space within the Sky Mesa Recreational ,Afeaa portion of the project site for c total project size of approximately 236,750 square feel (Figure 1.2i_ Project taus
The project ate is located al .58400 Fronk Sinatra Drive approximately OE85 miles southwest a1 the intersection with State Route 11 1 In the City of Rancho Mirage, Riverside County fAssessibr's Parcel Numbers 659-330-026. . -431 -032 -1334 887-02€-012. -014 and 6E's9-33f-00 -181 (Hgure 1-2). The majority sat the 10.13 -acre project ssteis currentlry vacant and lies south and east of the existing Ritz -Carlton Ranctra h4irage Hostel, Figures 1-I and 1-2 show the regions! lacaiian and local vicIntty, respectively The Residences portion accounts for approximately f 162 acres and the Skv M eta Recreation Ares acCount1 for approximately 1.5I acres,
Envirann entak Setting and Surrounding Lord Urea
The project site is vacant with dirt covering the majority of the site. The r+nnjority of the die That Includes -The Residences is mass graded_ iha portion of the site for the Sky Mesa aecrea1anal Area is partially graded. An asphalt dead-end road hos been constructed on the properly as a temptaory construction access point for the hotel to !hu north. A skipping container and continuation eavii meat remain on the project site from construction sfagng activities doing previous development on the hotel property. As mentioned above. the existing Ritz-Callton Rancho Mirage Hoist II to the north and west of the prciec1 silo with a tvalol ter' e access road Immediately bordering the property. Another hotel service accessroad borders the project site to the nortneast which leads to the proposed Sky Mesa Recreation Area To the south is Mirada Circle and the Mreda single -lightly residential development. Controntng the project site across Franc: Srsatua Drive to the northwest is a rough graded but undeveloped parcel that contains the site where the Tennis villas al the Lodge at P,cetah€s Mirage Hotel Protect would be developed.
Latta Use
The project site is situated on all or p ortia ns of Assessor parcel numbers 684-330-026 -O28, -4,31 -032, -034:
689i -020-0i 2, -414 and 689-331-001, -18 which have a Genera! Plan land use designation of Commercial= Resort Hotel IPs-Hi and on parcels 689-020-012. -14 carrying can Open Space: Mountain Reserve 'MR] designation
The stated goal of the Resort Hotel (Rs -I-1) zone is for "the development of hotels and destination resorts with limited, ancillary commercial used. such as spas, recreational facilities, restaurants, lounges, and small retail shops that directly suppor! the prrnary
the stated goal of the Mountain Reserve FMRj zone is `for public lands or property subject to conservation easements in the Santa Rosa Mountains, Uses are limited to recreational activities, such as Mona at equestrian and non -motorized bike bails and IoclTittes consistent with the need to protect sensitive bic,Icglcal resources_ Vehicular access Is not permitted In this designation CIty yr Rrncha ?Ova
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Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1875
RTC -46
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
JuI 2024
t'tajcet Descrlphan
Proposed Land Uses
The applicant, Korn Sang Company, proposes to construct 106 resadentiat suites and hotel villas r•n,.ompossinr3 approximately 200,474 --square leer, approximately 23..4 -square feet of event •_puc . approximately 6.273 -square feet of commercial, and approximately 5.310 -square feet of amenity apace at 689O3 Frank Sinatra Drive. The proposed project would be approximately 236.748 square feel In total Agure 1-3 and 1.4 shows the proposed site plans tar the Rltx Carlton Residences and the Sky ,Mesa Recreational Area, respectively,
PRZ Cnrffo,n Residences and Hotel Albs
Presidential Suetea (Batting A -l): the residential suites, event space, and commercial area would be located within Building A-1. This new building would provide on approximately 23,840 -square feet Indoor event space and 3,960•square feet exterior entertaining and garden spaces- the building would also house 48 residential suites over underground parking fir both the smites and ttae event space along 'with additional parking tar the ex:istisg hotel. Building A-1 would be 3 stories with a maximum h©rght of 3 -feet, 3 -Inches• voth the exception of the enfranc e of the event space, which Sul be 39 -test 3- Inches in height Building elevations are shown on Figure I-5,
Hotel Wifas Cauiidings B -t lo 9 -IS): the proposed project also. Includes 53 proposed hotel vigor wish private garages. across Ibbuildings (6ufdfngs B•1 to f5.151 to the south and east of Building A-1. The hotel villas would be 2 stories with o maximum height or approximately 32 -feet, 4 -Inches and building elevations are shown on Figures I•6o and I-isb, These residential suites and hotel villas would be comprised of a mix of one, two, and three -bedroom units: refer to Table I -I . Proposed Residential Suite and Hotel Villa Unit Types. fog a breakdown of unit types between the residential suites and hotel villas.
Table -1. Proposed Residential Suite and Hotel Villa Unit Types tl
Unit Type
d4iiiir
ResidentiaSuites
I becloorn "1 'both
26 2 Pedro orn/2 bath
12 3 be droorrs/3 bath
10 Residential Suite Subfodaii
418
Hotel Villas
2 becfraorr /2 bath
29 3 bedroom/3 Math
29 toWIVrTkasSuit'a₹aJ
58 Idol Units
Ida
err approximotery 5,510-tquar4-toot, 33 feet and 6 Inches loll. carnimunily clubraorn/lounge with access to a centrgl pool terrace as well aT #miler amenity areas woutti also be loaded with The :eme area as the hotel v1 1, Refer to Figure 1-3 for the proposed location of the cornm••unliy lounge and Figure 1-5 ter budding elevations -
LIB ai Rrnchc ?Ova
T4
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Coiit
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1876
RTC -47
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
kJy_2024
;kv Mesa Recreation A est
la the northeast, the pr4pased 6,273 -square -toot Sky Mesa Reatedlion Area v.'ould provide additional event ap-ace restaurant. and amenities, 'Lich a$ a pool terrace and view op.p rtinities of the surrounding areas. The Sky Mesa Recreallon Area inatudes a restaurant built into the natural hillside with a pool and large lawn event space below the restaurant. A proposed 693 square foot restroam facikty would be c+snstrucled into the hillside adjacent the restaurant and pool_ Figure I-7 shows the proposed building) elevations For the Sky Me.ao Recreation Area. A. General Plan Zoning Mop Amendment from Mountain Reserve (MR) to Resort Hotel (Rs.H) Is crarleurrentty praposezi for the Sky ,Mesta Recreation Area.
Access and Parking
Proposed access and ciiculatla n to and within the protrrcisite h shown on Figure I.8. Primary site access would be from Frank Sinatra prlve, with associated monument sIgnage. Access to the hotel villas would be located at the existing traffic circle on Frank Sinatra Drive just south of the existing hotel access driveway. Access to Building A-1 (residenlldl suites, event spa ceS., and underground loathing) watuld be from the exist rg hotel access driveway. The existng hotel molar- court would be modified to serve as the drop-otf and entry paint for the new event space and residential suites. An additional vehicular connection would be located to the east of Budding A-1. wtrich would provide additional hotel villa residential and service access. An internaa rood network and sidewalks provide connections throughout the cite. to the existing hotel and fa the Sly Mesa Recreation Area.
The proposed prolectwould include 499 parking spaces total wilts 381 subterranean parking and 1 I r} residential parking, At mentioned above, parking for Build A-1 F . provided in a parking structwre where 381 spaces serve the residential suites, event space, commercial uses, and additional spaces far the existing hotel. The hotel wallas would have either 1 or 2-caa private garages plus a driveway 'pace for the one car garage hater villas totaling 116'spaces.
Landscaping and Open Space
The proposed project wit provide approximately 35% open space made up al landssapeareo_ pooh, water features, and paths. Figures 1-9a and t -9b shows the proposed landscape plan for the Residences at Ritz Coition and the Sky Mesa Recreational Area. respectively. A descrflandsca-pe rdestgn is proposed throughout the project site Including water cascades, multiple pooh, rock escarpments, and tountalns. Landscaping would be located throughout the pealed see and between aropase-d bulldrrrgs vs/11h pedestrian acc=ess provided by the oneite pedestion nei'work. The proposed plant paletfe wound comprise of native, draught - tolerant plantings, consistent with the exdifng hotel landscaping and surrounding area'_ A pedestrian walkway network would be located throughout the hotel villas and Sky Mesa Recreation Area, The pedestrian network would provide access to p -oafs, ponds, and open space areas within the project site. Within the Sky Mesa Recreation Area, north of the proposed restaurant and pool. the, pedestrian network wquld include viewpoints lowgrds the narthlegst. �IIh7Gtr'es
Caarchella Valley Water District (CVWD) provides domestic water service to the exuding Ritz -C etton Hotel via 18 -inch diametea water mains located In Fronk Sinatra Drive and 8 -Inch mains lactated in previous Tennis Complex entry drive, 12 -Inch water mains are also located in roadways within the GIB ai Rrncha ?Ova
15 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1877
RTC -48
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Cariton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
JuI 2024
adfacent Mirada Blots& subdivision.
CVWD provides wastewotet collection Csnd treatment setvlcps to the proposed project vicinity. wastewater Is collected via .-Inch sewer rnalns located within the Fronk Sinatra drive right-of•way_ these rnaits extend north along Fronk Sinatra Drive, cross Highway 11 I aria connect wilt a sewer line located about one block northeast or Highway 1 11
the proposed project would requite sewer. water, and fire -serve water fine lateral connections to the exiting facilities In Frank: Sinatra Drive. New Irrigation Irnplavements.would follow the CVWD Model Water Efficient Landscape Ordinance.
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16
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1878
RTC -49
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Carlten Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declarative
lulK2024
Construction
For the purposes of air quality analysis, it is cerlicipated that construction of the proposed project would begin, in 2023e The ©nficipated sequence of construotian is as follows; • Demo'Ilion Insane necessoryt
• Sife Prepargtion `paeviouSly Perlarrngdl
• Grading IS months}
• guIIdng Construction J 17 Mani -10
• Paving i 1 month)
• Architectural C outing j3 months}
War to the air quality analysis in Section of this Initial Study tar additional details_ During the grading phase of construction, it is anticipated that approximately 6,920 cubic yards of material would be exported and na material would be imparted. No-VOC point, defined as pool with a VOC content of 5 glams/J er or less is proposed foil The project.
Operation
The proposed project ent[sds operation of Tesictentral suites and hotel villas.. event space. commeFcir and amenity space_ The proposed 23,arlOsquore tosrh evert space and exterior entertaining rand garden space would provide a space lor residents, vestals and hotel guests_ The proposed paoJect would involve the construction cif ]fb resldenticf units These resIdeettlal units would operate slralor Ira finneehore properlles and therefore future residents would not be, in the proposed residential units year•raund.
During operation of the proposed protect spectral events would be held, similar to apeeiral evenly held at the existing hotel. Prior to any speelal event, the proposed project would obtain necessary rend rer ulred opreovrals item the Cily with impede to specitel event peireits and traffic management.
Discretionary Approvals
the two primary components or the proposed project, the Ritz Carlton Residences end the Sky Mesa Recreation Area, require a separate set of diserefionory approvals. While these two components are car Idered a single project under GEQA, one portion may be developed separately Isom the ether The removals required of each are vu seed below. Tee project requires approval of a Tentative Parcel Map JTPM+l3e769y (see Figure I.10, Tentative parcel heap' which proposes to establish freers, parcels with Parcel 3 of the map containing 106 condo units.
The analysis ast-urines a ccr&tructian sicr1 dated February 2723 and conclude in I akerriber 2]2a , vvtsich represents iheearliest date ccnatruclimn would nirejtc. While r n.Jary: Sill has already pond aasurnhg the earliest, dad date and duration for construction represents the vvorst-ccre scenaa for crfeekr car petutcrrt and GHG errsseons because equipment and vehicle e-rissicn Parlors for Pater years 'odd be slighity less due fa rrsareahrigentden dslri useali-rocidegsiprnentandhea y-eiuty cu well asdleetfur hover replocirrg solder equtarreritand vehtles its Dote yearkAdrtitlanallyashorler'I ixekele_] tturation reseltsirs eighty hsgher daisy and annual enrasicn5. Ilc.elate despite the loci that the ccxrstruclkjn setied.rle used la in2Jedrxd hds peloO rxty passes, green itrsi+Fr moos Itre, aSr-CC.x10)otorrcria. lreslyslsrs sill veld LIB '? Rrncha ?Ova
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1879
RTC -50
Responses to Comments
RItz-Cariton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
JuI 2024
RitzCarllee Residence% Discretionary Apprevriki
• Eriviranmenral Ass+ ssrnen1
• Devebopment Agreement Amendment
• Major Modification
• Terri utive Parcel Mop
Sky Hera Rocrtatlon Area Discrehonar .Approvals
+ Envirvnmertlgl Assessment
• Development Agreement Amendment
• General Plan Zonvig Map Amendment from Mountain Reserve to Posen Hotel ■ Msilox McrLifica-ior1Prahminory Devoloprnent Plan
s Tenlgtive Porcel MQp
LIB ai Rrnclia ?Ova
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Cont
18
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1880
RTC -51
Responses to Comments
S3RCE Di1 OsenRraaVVap 2919
FIGURE 1.1
Regional Map
Fat-Carho¢ R,trhbv kivapo nsGJ Said
T2-2
Cant
DUDEK it
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1881
RTC -52
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntenteanafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
20
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1882
RTC -53
Responses to Comments
YUd.� E3R"]city Ire[uei M1
F C i FE 1-2
Pitied L omliory
T2-2
Cont
DUDEK 1
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1883
RTC -54
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
22
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1884
RTC -55
Responses to Comments
WARE 1.3
DUDEK
A
f
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1885
RTC -56
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
T2-2
Colic
IntentennafN left blank
City vt Rrncha Keno 24
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1886
RTC -57
Responses to Comments
T2
Cont.
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1887
RTC -58
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
26
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1888
RTC -59
Responses to Comments
till I I iii ,: I Li_, , a "•
lrr.w srM-EvicritAl
T2-2
Cunt
r, AST I. h,ST IF_ -r. dtllCf7:.
DUDEK
FIGLRE1-5
&elitism Elevators
Calknotann 'AA am ram AlaN
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1889
RTC -60
Responses to Comments
pica -Carlton Rancho Mirage
ihit ilStudy/ Mitigate! Negative Peeleratien
hily_2d02fi
Intentionally left blank
City of Ramrho Mirage
T2.2
Cont.
28
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1890
RTC -61
Responses to Comments
RESIDENTIAL SUITES' NOKI'll ELEVATION
T2-2
Conk
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1891
RTC -62
Responses to Comments
Ibt,r-C,arltcn F's; td,D Mirage
Initial Stud4J ttitigatotl Nsgativo {aoclarataon
Ju1y_20,24
Intentionally Felt blank
City, Rancho Mirrgr
T2-2
Cont.
30
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1892
RTC -63
Responses to Comments
T2
Con-,
ROLFE
R!w` mkrZei CIS
DUDEK
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND
November 2024
1893
11942
RTC -64
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntenteanafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
32
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1894
RTC -65
Responses to Comments
ELEVATION - EAST
DUDEK
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1895
RTC -66
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
T2-2
Colic
IntentennafN left blank
City ai Rrncha Keno 34
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1896
RTC -67
Responses to Comments
T2-2
Colt
DUDEK
FICAF F-�
Pr Asces5 sad CmMos
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1897
RTC -68
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
36
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1898
RTC -69
Responses to Comments
Fa 1-aa
Landscape PINE fcr {iesldewes al RiL Cai tan
T2-2
Cont
DUDEK
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1899
RTC -70
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntenteanafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
38
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1900
RTC -71
Responses to Comments
RGJ S-$.
Lanitape Plan kaSky MesaRecxaa neEkea
DUDEK
V
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1901
RTC -72
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntenteanafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colmm
40
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1902
RTC -73
Responses to Comments
A
TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP ND_ 3E376.8
IM IRR 4 0-- RAMA, WRh'EL
E01.0. -T 0` iiiV 'j :-r, S7Rtr i;:r cA,iro-R.0
•0n. LOPU0nnvluu •.roan
i> ok8
EMinIC
ULU .ayyE.L.. .u•ac -
DUDEK
F.liE 1-14
MOM Paul ltAsp
Oft•Calgrifignen Mugu rb1 :14
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND
November 2024
1903
F y ; 42 of 253 in Comment Letter T2
11942
RTC -74
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colmm
42
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1904
RTC -75
Responses to Comments
T2-2
Cont.
DUDEK
FIGLRE
V u -nu 1- Para° Mirage Enb
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1905
RTC -76
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
T2-2
Colic
IntentennafN left blank
city ai Rrncha ?Ova 4-4
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1906
RTC -77
Responses to Comments
T2.2
Grunt
DUDEK
ROM 1-11b
V ue1 SFrnulailen 2 - V 6 of [Southern Entrance)
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1907
RTC -78
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
46
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1908
RTC -79
Responses to Comments
DUDEK
FIGS a -ate
Vaud 5iradon3-' of Linda Entitle)
Re rm.ii,p vim mot
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1909
RTC -80
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
48
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1910
RTC -81
Responses to Comments
A
.ii
'.�tl1
roiling and R Y11_Ff,fliFi+ Y 1 A.
DUDEK •
W
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1911
RTC -82
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
50
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1912
RTC -83
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Cal -item. Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declarative
iuly_2d24
CHAPTER 2: ENVIRONMENTAL ANALYSIS AND DETERMINATION
ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS POTENTIALLY AFFECTED:
The environmental factors ctaecked below would be potentially affected by his project, involving at least one impact that is a "Potentially Significant Impact' as indicated by the checklist an the fallowing pages.
Aesthetics
Biological Resources
Geahgy and Soils
I-tydrclogy and Water
Quality
Noise
Recreation
Utilities and Service
Systems
CItx vt Rrncha ?Ova
Agriculture end
Forestry Renounces
Cultural Resources
Greenhouse Gas
Emissions
Lend Use and
Planning
Population .and
Housing
Transportation
111 Wildfire
Air Quality
Energy
Hazards and Hazardous
Materials
Mineral Resources
Public Services
❑ Tribal Cultural Resources
Mandatory Findings of
Significance
51 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1913
RTC -84
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
lr,Iy_2f:T24
EVALUATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS:
1j A brief explanation is required for all answers except "Na Impact' answers that ate adequately supported by the Information sources a lead agency cites In the parentheses following each question-A'No Impact' answer is adequatey supported if the reterenced Information sources show that the impact simply does not apply to projects like the one Involved leg the project falls outside a fault tupIutezonej_ A'No Impacr'answer should be explained where If is based on project-spedTic foctnrs os well os general standards ie,g,, the proJectwill not expose sensitive receptors is pollutants, based on a project specific screening unalyskl.
yt All answers must take account of the whole action Involved, Including off•site as well as on -site, cumulative qs well as project -level, indirect as well as direct, und construction as well as operational impacts.
3t Once the lead agency has determined ttsot a particular physical impact may occur. then the checklist answers must Indicate whether the impala it palenfiaNyr significant less than ugnific ant with mitigation, or less than significant "Potentially Significant Impact' is appropriate if there is substantial evidence that an effect may be 3igneficant If there are one or more "Potentially Significant Impact' entries when the -determination is made, an EIR is required. 4t "Negative Declaration: Less Thorn Significant With Mitigation Incorporated" dpaGes where the incorporation of mitigation measures has reduced an effect from 'Potentially Siignitkant impact" 10 G "Lest Than Significant Impact;•The lead agency must describe the m-iligcttian measures, and briefly explain how they reduce the effect to a less than significant revel jrnlligotlon measures uteri "Earlier Anarj'ses," as descritsed In f5t below. tidy be cross-referenced,I 61 iEarller analyses may be used where, pursuant to the tiering. program EIR, ar other CEQA process, an elfetl has been adequately analyzed In ors eater EP or negative dealatallan_ Section I 4c)MillDi. In this case, a briel discussion should identity the following:
aJ Earlier Arlays13 Used. Identify and state where they Ore oa•ailable for YevieW. bJ Impacts Adequote:y Addressed_ Identlly which ettects tram the above checklist were within the scope of and adequately analyzed in an easier document pursuant to aAAlicabte legal standardsand state whether such ettects were addressed by mitigation meatuses bated on the earlier analysis
cl Mitigation Measures. For effects that are "Less than Significant With Mitigation Measures Incorporated" describe the mitigation measures which were iricoiporated or refined from the earlier document anfl the extent to whlct* they address site -specific conditions for the project,
6t Lead agencies are encouraged to Incorporate into the checklist references t4 information sources for potential impacts ie.g,. general plans. zoning ordinancesJ. Reference to a prevrousty prepared or outside do -turners! should_ where appropriate. Include a reference to the page or pages where the statement Is substantiated,
71 Supporting Information Sources: A source Ott should be attached'. and other sources wed or individuals contacted should be ailed in the discussion.
City vt (troche ?Ova
52 T2-2
Cant
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1914
RTC -85
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declarative
JuI 2024
Bf Thls Is only a suggested dorm, and lead ageni:let ass hoe to use diffetent rarmats_ howevei, lead agencies should normally address th queslaoru from this checklist toot ate relevant to a projects environmental effects In whatever formut Is selected.
91 The explanation of each Issue should Identify:
ai me signIllcance eritene tar threshold, if any, used to evaluate each question; and DJ the mtligotlan measure identified if any, to reduce the impact to less than sir nil cance CIty'?Rrncha?Ova
T2=2
Coat
53
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1915
RTC -86
Responses to Comments
ITez-Carllun Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Dcclaratinn
July 2084
DETERMINATION: {10 Ile completed by the Lead Agency) On the basis of this initial evaluation:
I find that the proposed project, COULD NOT have a significant effect on the emtironment_ and a NEGATIVE DECLARATION will bee prepared.
I find that although the proposed project could have a significant effect on the environment, there will not be a significant effect in thbs case because revisions In the project have bcen 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 art. ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required.
I find that the proposed project MAY have a "potentially significant impact" ar "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 2j has been addressed by mitigation meeenree based on the earlier analysis as described on attached sheets An ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT is required,. but it must analyze only the effectsthat remain to be addressed, I find that although the proposed project could have a significant aIfetit on the erwIronment, because all potentially significant efIt Lti {a) have been analyzed adequately In an earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION pursuant to applicable standards, and (b) have been avoided er mitigated pursuant to that earlier EIR or NEGATIVE DECLARATION. including revisions or mitigation measuresthat are imposed upon the proposed project nothing further is required,
Ben Torres, Planning Manager
City of Rancho Mirage
City at jigncno Mirage
7- 1-/- c2-1
Date:
54 T2-2
Corti
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1916
RTC -87
Responses to Comments
RItz-Cariton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
! rly_2424
Environmental Checklist and Discussion:
the followng chAci:tist evaluates the proposed project's potenftal adverse irrrpacts. For those envionmentol Iodic s for which a potential adverse irrrpacl rricw exist, a discussion of the existing Site environment related so the topic is presented followed by an analysis of the R-foposed project's paterrtial adverse impacts. when the project does not have any potential for adverse impacts for an enviianrnantal topic. the reasons vvhy there are no potential adverse impacts are described,
AESTHETICS
AES1HEI3CS — Would tho prttdic
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No
lmaact
IE
ID
a) Have a substantial adverse eflec MI L
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?
0 ❑
a
c) In non -urbanized areas.
substantially degrade the existing
visual character Or quality at 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 pro/ect conflict with
applicable zoning and other
regulations governing scenic
quality?
El
ili
d) Create new source of
substantial light or glare which
would adversely affect day or
nighttime views in the area?
1.1 5eliing
For the ptrpoaes of this analysis, a scenic vista is defined as a long. expansive issIew of a highly valued landscape from a publicly accessible vantage point. "Highly valued landscapes" can Include natural open spaces. topographic formations including mountains of hills, or more generally. areas t rut CIty'?Rrncha?Ova
55 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1917
RTC -88
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Caliton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
1.Iy_21T24
contribute lo a high level of visual quallfy, The City of Rancho Mirage's General Plan has Identified view corridors along State Route ASR -j 11 1.
the proposed profecl consistsof developing 48 residenlldl suites and 5.8 hotel vitas rancampdssing approximately 2130,474-sauctiefeef,approximately11,840squarelootofeventspace.approximatelya273- sgardre feet of commercial. and approximately 5,510,sauore feet M amenity spar=e at 68900 Frank Shaba Drive. As discussed fn the Project Deserptrvn, the proposed project also Includes 58 proposed hotel vftlos with private garages across 15 h ridings (Bindings B -I to B- I5j to the south on -dealt of Building A-1. The hotel villas world be 2 stories with a maximum height of ;32 -Beet 4 -Inches and building elevations are shown an Figures I-bo and I-trb, The proposed Sty Mesa Recreational Area would construct an event space, restaurant and bathroom fgciity brill Into the natural I'llside, a pool and n large lawn event space.. The heights of the structiees would not substantially differ as the existing buildings are of similar heights..
The proposed Rita -Carlton Residences site h located south of the existing hotel, north oI a gated residential community, and southeast of another gated residential community (Figure I.2j. Additionally.
There it a trail adjacent to The gated residential community la the northwest of the project site (Road Runner Trail), The proposed Ritz -Carlton Residences rile h graded irnd Is sparsely occupied by small vegetation and storage containers_ The proposed Sky Mesa Pecrealronar Area is located east at the existing hotel (Figure 1-2), The proposed Sky Mesa Recreational Area h largely graded atop a hills e and dotted with chaparral vegetnllon.
1 2 Discussion of Impacts
ap leas -than- rtltFcanf Inspect, The City of Poncho Mirage General Plan {City of Rancho Mirage 2017j Land Use Elernehl policy dotes that "the City shall ensure adequate visifaillAy arid accessibility for commercial development while preserving the scenic vlawsheris from adjoining properties and public lights -of -way" [Policy N,u 2.5i• the proposed project is located off of Rank &rsarra Drive. a public right-of-way. which Tncludes views of the Santa Rasa Mountains to the north and southeast the proposed project occurs to the east/southeast of Frank Sinatra )live and therefore there is no impoot to views to the north The views of the mo untalnt to the southeast include the existing Mirada setgle•lamily residential development which is situated at urn elevation appronimateiy 3(1 -feet higher ihrn the proposed project entrance, The proposed bindings ore designed to meet the buIdIngheight andaelback. regsrlabons on required. by the City of Rancho Mliroge Zoom Ordinance. us discussed in Threshold 2(c).
Three renderings of the proposed project ore presented in 5gurea I -Ile -c, Locations of the proposed project renderings ore also presented in Figures 1-1 1 a -c, The three renderings include renderings of two entrances to the vitas of f,Mlrada one on the North side of the site and one the South: Figure 1-11b and 1-1 I c, respectively( and a rendering frorn the perspective from me entrance to the proposed development fFlgure -lial. These three perspectives ate raeneraly the only locations along Frank Sinatra Drive in which a rrratorilt could see the proposed project from o public vantage paint The terrain b such shot it blocTrs, the project up r-mti the proposed project entrance. Fevre 1-1 TC 9f the north end r,i Fronk Sinatra Drive is the first Location in which the prole -of .Ile can be seen by motorist, A rendering rtt the entrance to the prom ct titre along Fronk. Sln hn Drive Is presented rs Figure 1-1 I Views of the rendering includes multlpte palm trees and desert landscaping -along the entrance.
CIty ai Rrncha ?Ova
56 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1918
RTC -89
Responses to Comments
RItz•Carlterr Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
July_2t:T24
Beyond the entrance ore multipkisbulicings that are color blocked with neutral cream or fan color exterior, the buldirlgs ore Iwo stories tail and would be surounded by landscaping, A renditrng from the perspective of the southern entrance to the Villas of Miada fa gated residential netgnborheod) shows the proposed brttdinr t of simian designs as previ+osrsty described {Fatee 1- I Ile', Landscaping along the streets would not change, and low dense landscaping can be seen n»ng the proposed development, A rendering ham the perspective of the northern enhance of the Vitas of Mirada shows the proposed development just beyond the view of the existing hotel The proposed Sky Mesa Reereatienel Area cannot be seen from env of the t1,ree perspective locations as specified iu Ewes 1.11a through 1.11c
There would be minimal visibility of the proposed develo-prner I from Highway 111 A brief view of existing hotel buildings can be seen peaking over the hillside. although the majority ar the peso -wed bulldogs would not be seen from HIgftwny 11 I due to mounters and elevation_ Visibility of the existing hotel can be seen from the parking lot of a car wash directly adjacent to Highway 1 I I and Frank Sinatra Drive. Even from the paarkieg lot of the aforementioned car wash, the proposed development carnet be seen l t ' d_velapmenlcannot be seen until motoirsIs arrive at the northern entrance a _. _ r rgure •I I cj.
As the exlsttng topography increases to the southeast the views wilt not be alas -hutted by the prepared project and the Impact to scenic vistas Iron the public right-of-way will be less than significant_
The City's General Plan Cornminity D signElemernt jChi of Rancho Mirage 2017] Includes the goal of preservation and promotion of the special identify of Rancho ,Mirage as en "Oasis in the Desert," combining quaff y development with scenic_ natural_ and al=ai space amenities, Exhisil 32 in the Community Dee -en Bement shows designated view corrido-rs The view corridors potentially wflt-in the potential protect minify ate locking narthweet/southeasterly .]Iona both. Highway 11 1 and the whffewater River, Tne Community Design Element oiso addresses scenic arterial roadways which include Bob Hope Drive, Hghway I I I. Monterey Avenue. and Da Vall Drive. the proposed project isnot visible from the designated vie er corridors as Nis located to the west over the Santa Rosa Mountains. Additionally, the proposed project is located off of Frank Sinatra Drive which is not considered a scenic roadway (City of Rancho Milage 20i Therefore, impacts to scenic vistas regarding view corridors would be two than 4fynificonl. bI No tarpacttlhe project site is located off of frank Sinatra Drive, which is not considered o scenic highway {City of Rancho Menge 2t]11i Additionally, the protect site has been prevlausy graded and e.anlcrins no scent resources including, but not limited to, trees, rock outcroppings, and historic buildings. therefore, thane would be noimpnct_ Less -than -Significant impact:: Per C'EDA 3tgtule 2T0710.112.1, and urbane eel area is defined a$ cin ir::_orportated city thief has a population. oI fess than 100. COD persons ..,and not more than "wo _oniiguor.rt ncerparoled ciries combined equals cr lecrsf 1(Si],CQ3 persons."' The cornhned no mutations of Ranch]. Mirage, Cathedral City. and Palm Springs exceed 1cC.00Q persons. and therefore C oncha Mira e 6 considered an urbaned area under CEQA iSCAO 2019x, b, In accordance with the Cry's Zoning Ordnance, the proposed project would cvrnply with all applicable city designStandards to protect sce=nic vlewaheds, The project proposes buildings Of varying heights with a maximum building height of 33 -feet, 6 -inches. with the exception et City vt Merck,?Ova
57 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1919
RTC -90
Responses to Comments
RItr'Carftian Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declarations
Jaly_2O24
the entrance to the venue space In &Aiding A•1 [with a height of 39 -feet and 3 inches) and the entrance to the underground parking structure Iwith a height of 47- teeth Table 2-5 its Section 07.10.23 of the City's Municipal Code identifies the development standards for setbacks and Policing ))eight in the R's -H zone, with additional height requirements outkned n 5ecrson 17,20,1 00, As part of the development pion application and project mapping progresses, the applicant would comply with the Ciy's !M1 unlcgal Code budding height requirements with respect to She finished grade and setback requirements obng the piaperty fine_ The proposed event apace would be located closest to the existing hotel, with the residentiO miry proposed between the hotetfevent space and neighboring residential to the south, The proposed residential Hllas would be located of varying finished growler which wo Ltd provide a urinictinn In rooitnes. The residential ,Alla5 would be set track from surrounding properties by an interval landscaping buffer and internal driveways, Project design would provide a transition between the existing hotel use/proposed went space crud the e,s]Ing residential to the south in compliance with the development standards of the City's Municipal Cade.
Additionalty, rho project cite Is current!), zoned Resort Hotel {P •HJ and Open Space: Mountain Reserve (MR) in 1he General Plan {city of Rancho Mirage 20171. The pteposed hare) suites and vtlos are located on the RA.1 zoned property, with the concurrently proposed zoning amendment rot the Sky Mess] Recreotron Area, Sate proposed uses would also be located on ar; P_s•H zoned parcel Therefore. the protect would tae consistent with rhra General Plan designation. Furthermore, the project site is not located within a scenic overlay zone. AS described in Response 1(•aJ above, the proposed buildings will cornpN with building height and setbpet, regulations and there would be less lhars sigrilicanl impact regarding existing views rand scenic duality horn the public right -of -wort' will not be impacted. alp Less -Man •Slyntlf rani limppactThe residential suites. hotel villas, and sky mesa uses would include outdoor ligh}Ing. Whale this Is a new source of tight, existing hotel and the sutro riding Mirada residential development already contciins night -lighting. All fighting would comply with City of Rancho] Mirage Municipal Code. Sectlan 17.ta0 r (city of Rancho Mirage 20021 tar shielding to control glare and prevent light' spillover onto adjacent are rs. The proposed protect would have coles-0droon-sigtwticant Impact an day or nighftsne views related to light gr glare_
1.3 Mitigation Measures
No mitigation mearuies required
-
LIB ai mocha ?Ova
58 T2=2
Coin
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1920
RTC -91
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
Jul 2024
2. AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY RESOURCES
AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY
RESOURCES -
In determining whether impacts to
agricultural resources are significant
environmental effect, 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
vtith
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?
E
•
.
I]
c) Conflict with existing zoning for,
or cause rezoning of forest land, •
timberland. or timberland zoned
Timberland Production?
Q
Oll
d) Result in the loss of forest land or
conversion of forest lad to non
Forest use?
El
[
•
In
e) Involve other changes in the
existing environment which, duo
to their location or nature, could
result in conversion of Farmland,
to non-agricultural use?
D
0 1.71.
IlD
LIB '? Mewha ?Ova
59 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1921
RTC -92
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Cariton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative I3eclaratiee
1r4_2024
2.1 Selling
the project site is situated on all or portions of Assessor parcel numbers 68g-330-026, -2a -32 which have a General Plain Land Use designation of commercial: Retail Hotel 4P's-HJ and an parcels 684-0 7,0-012 - 14 carrying an Open Space; Mountain Reserve IMSRI designation.
Accrxdinca rp the City of Rancho Mirage's 2ai1S General Plan Upstate ER (Ctly of Rancho Mkage'20CiS), there h no tarrying activity In the City and no ogrir_uhurat land uses In the aenerar Plan Furthermore. the. 2017 Rancho, ?Mope General Plan Update Addendum r2017 Addendum: staler that agricultural lands ore r1ll not present In toe C: ty,
2.2 Discussion of Impacts
Pio- icrrpact: According to the Colitarnia Department DO Canservali€an's Important Farmland Finder, the project site is located in Urlaarr and Built -Lip Larrd and [other Land. Urban and Build- U.p Laird is described as areas occupied by structures ;with a building densaty of al least one unit to 1 5 totes, at appr xirnatety six structures to 10 -acre parcels Doc 2015J, Other Lana zl described as land not Included in any other mapping category, with common estimates including low density rural developments, brush, timber, etc, (DOC 231'161.
A.s previously discussed, there Is no farming activity in the City and no agricultural land uses in the General Plan- Additionally, the 2Ct0.5 General Plan ER, which analyzed the entirely of the o=ily, determined that ogrlcultrlral resource impacts would be crynsidered less than significant.
Furthe+mare. the 2017 Addendum to 1he General Plan Ella Would not facilitate any conversion Al' a gri cultur otly tgned lane, Theretare, this threshold is not addressed As such the proposed project would not ronwert Fsirne Farmland, Unique Farmland, or Farmland of Statewide Importance la non-agricutturtsl use, and no impact would occul- bi No Rllpoct The Residences at Ritz Carlton portion of the project site Is designated as Resort Hotel tRs H}, and the Sky Mesa Recreational Area of the project site is designated as an Open Space: Mountain Reserve IMRJ zone according to the Crly's Land Use Map iCtly of Rancho Mirage 241Tr, The Rs -H designation is zoned for commercial uses and the MR designation is zoned for open space preserve spade jCity of Rancho Mirage 2U131. Neither of the designations support agricultural uses- As such, development of the proposed project would not conflict with existing zoning for agricultural use or a Williamson fact contract. No Impact, would ac cur.
c•I No [impact: Its@ Residences at Ritz Carlton portion of the project site is designated as Resort hotel (Rs -H. and the Sky Mesa Recreational Area of the project site is designated as an Open Space' Mountain Reserve (MR) zone according to the City's Land Use Map: [City of Rancho Mirage 2C117J The project site Is not currently designated as co used for forestry resources.
Therefore. the proposed project would not conflict with existing zoning for ltrrest land or timberland, jrd no impact would occur.
CIty ai Rrncha Mine 6O
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1922
RTC -93
Responses to Comments
df
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaratioe
lr,Iy_2L724
No limped:See response io Threshold 2iO- The proposed project would nor result In the lots of forest land or conversion offorestland to non-rorest use, and therefore noirnpith would occur. ej No Impact: See response to Threshold 2(ct. The pro posed project would not result in the dier_t or indirect conversion of agricultural uses or forest land. and no impcscl e. auld occur.
2.3 Mitigation Measures
No mitigation measures required.
LIB yr Rrnchc ?Ova
T2-2
Cont
61
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1923
RTC -94
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Deelaratioe
JuI 2024
IntentennafN left blank
CItx ai Mewha ?Ova
T2-2
Colic
62
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1924
RTC -95
Responses to Comments
3. AM QUALITY
A
Ritz-Caliton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
Jul 2024
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
Significam
Impact
No
Impact
a) Conflict with or obstruct
implementation of the applicable
air quality plan?
0 ❑
Mi
•
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?
[1
c) Expose sensitive receptors to
substantial pollutant
concentrations
❑
❑--
d) Result in at'tser emissions (such
as those ieadin-g to odors)
adversely affecting a substantial
number of people?
❑
❑
E
11 3.1 Setting
This section is hosed upon the Air Qvafrfy and Greenhouse Gas Technical'Report and - 1e -e©fh Risk Assessment bt9fnarcildum prepared by Dudek (Appertdkk A -I and A-2. tasueotivetvh Background and mef:hodotogles regarding the air qualify analysis can be found in Appendix A -f grid A.Z Criteria Air Pollutants
Criteria i it pollutants ase defused as pollutants for which the federal ursd state governments hove established ambient air quality standards. al criteria, for outdoor conceniraf oni to protect public health. the federal and stale standards have been tier- with an adequate margin of safety. of levels above which concentrations could be harmful to human health and welfare these standards are designed to prated the mostsensitive persons from fitness or discomfort_ Pollutants of concern Include O nitrogen dioxide iN{J:J, carbon monoxide trot, sulfur dioxide ISO4'J, PMT,.
PM_-. and lead- In California. sulfates. vinyl chloride, hydrogen sulfide, and visibility -reducing particles are also regulated ascriteria air pollutants. A detailed discussion of each pollutant of concern ore oresante a Ir1 Append A-t-
LIB '? Rrncha ?Ova
63 72-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1925
RTC -96
Responses to Comments
RItz-Carlterr Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declarative
luly_2t:T24
The federal Clean Alr Act delegates the regulatkrn of air poklutlon control and the enforcement of the Naiionar Ambient Air Quaky Standards INAAQSJ to the states. In California, the task of air quality maanagemenl and regulation has been legiistalivelry granted to titre California Ai Resources Board {CARE'. with subsidiary responsbirlties assigned to air quality management districts and air pollution control districts al the regional and counts, levels. CARB which became parr of the California Environmental Protection Agency In 1991, Is respartsible for ensuring implernenlollorw of the Colitarnla Clean Air Act of 1989,responding to the federtal Clean Air P,c1, and regulating emissions rrom motor vehicles and consumer products
CAtrB has established California Ambient Air Quality Standards (CAAQS), which are generally more re_ slricbve than the NAAQS. The CAAQS describe adverse condiliQns:: that Is. polls:Plpn levels must be below these standards before a basin can attain the standard, Air wordy is considered ',e attainment' It pollufanf levels pre continuously below the CAA.US and violate lhe standards no mole Iran once each Year, The CAa,QS tor C. CO, SO _ (1 -hour and 24-hourl t1C , PM and ?Pk, and visibility -reducing particles are values that are not to be exceeded. All others are not 110 be equaled or exceeded. The NAAQS aria CAnQS are presented in Table 3-I, Ambient A.ir Quality Standards, Table 3.1.. Ambient Air Quality Standards
Poludani
Avarnoing Imo
California Str:rrdardsp
National SIand s d P
Ccncerrfratron"
Prim airy:.d
Secanda y.•
f i::.
I hour
009 pprni 1Wgrm'J
—
Sameas prinaa^y
standard,
8 hours
0.070 ppm { 137 LLgfm )
0.070 ppnn I137
NO;.,
1 hour
018 ppnrt (339 pcgfrrr-'J
0.l OD ppm
i1SBFrPr'm'
Same as prirriscry
5tordard
Annum
igithersetic
mean
0.030 ppm {57 l.gim9J
0.f153 ppm
{ I DD µgr'rn'I
CO
I haul
20 ppm {23 mg/mil
35, ppm
(40 omgirr' I
None
8 hnuri
9.0 pprn { I 0 mgfm'I
9 pprn
(i ll rrgim'
I hour
0-25 ppm (65.5 [mg f m -a
0.C175 ppm
tlFaµglm'
—
3haurr
—
—
0.5 ppm
(1,300 ,I.tgfral
2'4 hours
0114 ppm (1051cgfrrij
0.14 ppm
iiorcertain areas*
—
Arrairai
—
04,30 pprn
tfor certain areas,)'
—
PM
4 hours
5Oppirrr'
150 Agort"
Same ,35 pnnxay
standard
Ar'rSL, d
iihmetic
—ear.
20 krrg lrli%
—
PA'f t
24 hours
35 pl frn-
Same as primary
3tarxbrd
CIty ai Rrncha ?Ova
64 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1926
RTC -97
Responses to Comments
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
kily_2024
Table 3-1. Ambient Air Quality Standards
IRoIwtant
Avera9in9linraae`
Card ornia st, ndards°
National Standardtit
Can:.:errlfroilon"
Pritnarysd
Secondary'.'
Arnuai
althrnetic
mean
I `! �.��:,;.._
t",21) p it-ry
15.0I-rgrrrt
Lead
30-otorg oven:age
I -5 aglm-'
—
—
talentfa
cTxarter
—
!.5 µgJr r
Om certain areasr
Same ns prtlrrone
standard
Roirlg 3-mrtth
uvrera ge
—
0-15 NgJrn
Hydrogen
sulfide
I haul'
003 pp ni (42lrg/rril
—
—
Vinyl
chloride
24 hours
0-0t ppm (26 m3J
—
—
Sulfates
24- Nauss
2a pg/rrr'
—
—
Visibaily
reducing
particles
allot,' f I 0:co
ca,rn to rk00
Pill PST)
Insufficient amount to
produce of extinction
coefficient of 0,23 per
kilometer due to the
nUnnioer of poi -holes
when the relative
humidity k less than 70%
—
—
Source: Appendix. A; J
flutist, O ozone: plan = pails per r.11Rkars by volume; lig)rn y micrograms per cubic rnek r: NCx = nitrogen rafaxtdE CO tr carbon monoxide rg/m milligrams per cubic ureter, SC. = suitor 4 id PM ; = coarse particulate (natter: PM..., tine particulate trraatl6r, PST ; ROCHIC Standard Time California standards fix O., CO, SO_ l I •hour and 24 -hour: NO,. suspended parilcsrraie rnotret (PM o.
PIa1_4), and visibility -redwing particles are values That are nos to be ere cd All others are not to he egualed or exceeded. CA AQS one listed In the Tattle of Stantlarch In Section 70200 or Title 17 cl the Callfamla Code of Regulations.
National standards lother than p:. N. $O:. particulate rnaster, and Male based on annual aeteagans or annual arithmetic meant ore not to be exceeded mare than ounce per year. The O. standard attained when the fourth highest 8 -hour concentration meastred at each site in a year, averaged over 3 years. is equal to or less than the standard_ For PM ., the 2.4 -hour storadard is attained when the expected number of days pet caolendar year with a 24 -hoar overage concentration above 15D l.girrt is equal taaar .less than I, For Puri;-. the 24thour standard is attained when gt b of (tie ckalgr concentrations, aviNOgied ova 3 years, are eqUOI to at rest than the standard.
Concentration expressed list in units In which it wcrx prs>rrruF csieci Equivalent units liven in parentheses are based on ea refercn'se temperature .of 2540 and a neforence misuse cap y6D torn. Moil measurements al ca* tN Y Vela be corrected to a reference 'temp eratlre at 25°C and o ref erence pressure ai 780 tear, Rtprra n finis table reters to ppm by volume or mitt —notes at pc jt nr per mole of gas hfctfonal primary standards: The levels of all quality necessary. with an adequate margin of safely, to protect the pubic health,
National secondary stcndrds: The levels ct air quality necessary to protect the public welfare tram any known or anticipated adverse effects .at a pollutant.
Con dObat 1 2015, the natfairnal &haul O • poi-rrdry and secondary standards were lowered tram 0_075 to 0.070 ppm.
To attain the notional I -hour stars:lr rd, the 3 -year 94wage al the annual 913th preteent1Ie al the I -hour dally maximum oancentsations at each site must not exceed 100 ports per billion &pploi. Nate that the national I .hour standard is In units oat ppb, Calllarn la standards are in units al ppnt. To directly compare LIB ai Rrncha ?Ova
65 T2-2
Coiit
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1927
RTC -98
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Cal1ton Rancho Mirage
initial Study/ Mitigated Negative Declaration
Laly_2024
the national I-haus 51rindarrk to the California standards. the units can be converted tram ppb to ppm, In thIS case, the national Standard art IQO ppb is Identical to 0.100 ppm, On June 2 2010.a new 1 -hour SO standard was estadfistted, and the existing 24 -hour and annual primary starx�ards were revoked. To attain the national 1 -hexes standard, the 3 -year average of the annual 99th percenitleol the 1 -hots dally rnaeirrturn concentrations at each site must not exceed 73 ppb. The 1971 SC:
national stair ds 124 -hour and annuals remain in etecl until 1 yeas miler an area is designated for the 2,510 standard, except rhdt in areas clesionated nahatttlinment of the 1471 standards, ttie 1971 standards rear. hi In eteat until implementation plans to attain ct maintain the 20If) st+andards are approved On December 14, 2012, the notional annual PM ,•, primorp standard was lowered from IS ugfrn` to 120 µgiro the 44stlhp notional 24 -hour PM_. standards fptrrrant and secondary) were retained at 35 IrgIrrrt, os was the annual secondary standard ct I5 IsgirrP, The entishng 24 -hour PM... standards [primary emirs itiicandcxyl 04 154 Icgfm'- Were also retained, The tarn and the [annual plirnrary and s>ecc.idcary standards Is the annual mean avers r?d over 3years,
CARE has Identified lead and vinyl chkxildeas 1ACs with no tnreshold bevel of exposure toodwerse health ette+cts determined 'raise actions afllraw kr he IrnpOenn nsatton ct control measues rat levees below the ambient concentrations sp ectfied to these pollutants,
The national Stancakrd for lead was revised en Qhctaber IS, MOB, to a rcGlnp 3 -month average, The 197B lead slandord 11 5 ugJm as a quarterly average) remains in effect until 1 year alter an area as designated to the 2003 siandcard, t3;tcepf that in areas designated nonottminrrrenr ry the 1978 stanndard. the 1973 standard remains in eltecr until Implernentatton plans to attain or main fain the 2008 standard *aro approved
Sensitive Receptors
Some land uses are considered more senYitrve to cttianges in air quality than others, depending an the populot+an groups and the admires involved. People most iikely to be effected by as pollution include children the elderly. athletes, and people valet cotdlovarscular and clxonlc respiratory a3seases. Facilites and stnactures where these car pollution -sensitive people live or spend considercbse amounts of lime are known as sensitive receptors. Land tees where atpo#rtlon-sensitive individuals are most likely iospend 'time include schools and echo tyords. parks and playgrounds, daycare centers, mina homes, hospitals. and residential communities {sensitive sires or sensitive land uses), the South Coast Air Quality Management Dishic I PC,,,,Qfv0 identifies sensitive reception asresidences, schools playgrounds, childcare centers, long- term healthcare facilities, rehabilitation centers. convalescent centers, and retierrrent hornet iSCAQMD 1993}- kesldentlalkind uses are -located la the south of the project site. The closest o!I-slle sensitive receptors to the project ate inchsde residences located approxirtsatety 25 meters i82 feet) south of the proposed project's fruits or conitaaction-
Toxic Air Contami na rds (TACs}
The stale Air Tonics Program was established in 1983 under AB 18W fTannesJ, The California TAC fret identities more than 7I1a poIkrtrants, of which cirCinogenic mot nonearcinapenlc toxicity enteric' have been established for a subset of these pollutants pu ward to the Carrtornia Huth and Safety Code, In accordarnrce with AB 2728. the state fst includes the tfederal) HAPs. In 1987, the Legalature enacted the Ajf loxics "Hot Spots" lnforrnatiion and Assessment Act of 1987 I'AB 2.5M to address public concern over the relegate of TACs:tta the atmosphere. AB 2388IGw r9qulrcls lacW11 i *Milting TOXIC subs PCIntnS to provide local at pollution contra! datrlcis with information that will allow an assessment of she cu lariat prokl rn. identiticaftan of air toxics ernissksfrrs sources, location of resulting hotspats, mono orlon of the public exposed to significant risk and development of effective strategies to reduce p oteriligl risks to the p VblIC over 5 years.
TAC emissions trom individual taaFrties are quarttfied and Monti -zed, "High -priority- foci t es are required to perfonrn a health Fla assessment {HRA), and It specific thresholds are exceeded, the facility operator Is required to camrnurrr_afe the results to the public in the form of naiices and public meetings, LIB yr Rrncha ?Ova
56 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1928
RTC -99
Responses to Comments
RlteCarftian Rancho Mirage
initial Studer Mitigated Negative Declarative
July_2024
In 2Cee, CARE approved a cempreheerrslue dieseI risk reduction peseta reduce diesel emissions from balk new and existing ese-tueted ve, hides and engines ICARB 2o64J.. The tegriation k crnlicipete-d to reauft in an decrease in statewide diesel hexafih Mt: er 2020 compared'wiih the desei risk. In alCO. Additional regulaiiiens apply to new trucks and d-reseifeel bcJkeing the On -Road Heavy Duty Diesel Vetrfcte ( rr Jsep Reg lotion the Or Rood Heavy Duty New 'vehicle program} they In -Use Oft -Rood blew! Vehicle Regulation, and the New Olt -Read Compression -Ignition pawl) Engines and equipment program These reguletioets end progr rte have iimetabies by which manufacturers must comely and exhiarig t:peictols melt upgrade Theis deset- prevered equipment there ere severesl Airborne Toxic Control Measves that reduce -diesel emission . including In -Use Oft -Road Diesel -Fueled Fleets II3 CCR 2449 et sea.i and In•Use On -Road Diesel-Fuel.e'd Vehicles Ih3CCft2025)
Regional and Local Air Qualify Conditions
Coachella Volley Penton er the Sallow Sea A1r &ism Atfafmnee, Designatiolt Puisuenr is the 1990 federal Crean Ail Act amendments. rho U.S, Environmental Protection Agency li PAJ clossrfies air basins (or portions thereof) as `Attainment" or "nanotlainment'" for each criteria air pollutant, based on whether NAAreS have been achieved Generally, if the recorded concentrations of a pollutant are lower than the standard, the area Is cdssifled as "attainment" for that pollutant If on area exceed:, the standard the area is classified as "nonalialnmenr" for that pollutant, If there is not enough data a salable to deleirrrne whether the standard ti exceeded in an area, the area is designated ors "unclassified" or "gmclessifieble:'1he designation of "unclgss'rflphlelcattcatnment" means Thal the area meets the standard or is expected to be meet the standard despite a:lack of monitoring data. Areas that achieve the standards after a nonattainment designation are re-dlesignrated as maintenance arecss and must ficfve approved Maintenance Prans to ensure continued atirsinment of the standards. The California Cie©n Air Act. like its federal counterpane called for the designation of areas as `attainment" of "nonottainnient," but based on CAA,DS rather than tee rJAAOS_ Table 3.2 Coachella Valley Portiere of the Salton Sea Air Bash Attainment Cfassiilcetien. depicts the current attainment status effete. project site wllh respect to the NAAQS and CAAOS_ Table 3.2 Coachetfca Valley Peltier', or the Salton Sea Air Basin Attainment CrassiFlcaflon Pollutant
t}eii nallonitIandSoaco
Fedora! Skin elrrrct's
Slate S.fandards
Ozone (04- I I-roor
No ledeel steel_, a
Nomsttalnmenf
I Ozone 10'j -@ horA
Swore norrattcirrrnenk
Nancrilrsinrnewl
Nitrgcgen dioxide ( Nees)
UncIa tiabte/attain- nt
Atrainment
Carbon monoxide ICO)
' inck3ssirkThlejuldoinr-. nt
Atrairenerst
Sulfur dioxide iiSO
enclattilieb ee—learnment
Attainment
Coarse particulate matter
(ftifs'to. )
Serious noneltninrneei
konallanrnent
Fire particulate matter (Pei =J
IUnciesssifielite/o`leinririen!
Attainment
Lead (Ph)
Unclassifiabletettpinreent
Attainrrren-I
Hydrogen sulfide
No lederol standard
Unclassified
Sifaates
No federal standard
Attainment
LIB yr Rrncha ?Ova
T2=2
CoTtt
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1929
RTC -100
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Cartton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
J„ly_2024
Table 3-2 Coachella Valley Portion of the Sgltan Sea Air Basin Attainment Clossili cation Palluivant
DesignailoniCl iislitcatlan
Federal Sfandords
Slat. Standards
`deribdi'y-reducIna particles
No feclercl standard
Unclassified
Vinyl chloride
No tecierral stCirr,tnrd
Nit. designation
Source: Appendln A-1
Hutrs; bald lrrsrt r not in attainment; attainment = m Gts the standards~ attainment/maintenance = achieve the standards alter a nanoltainntent desIgnalion; norrattarnment = does nal meet the starickircic unclassilled or unclassifiable = insulflci6M doh) TOclasllly Ur k slirlr)ble,tathainment = rnriot,s the S1gndord 9r Is expected to be nicest the standdard despite a social moniterIng. data.
In summary, the Salton Sea Air Bash ;SSABJ, which is where the project rile is located, Is designated as a non©itainment area for federal and state O. standards and federal and state PI'MMi, standards. The SSA6 is designated as an attainment area for federal and state CO, PM_,- NO_, and SO_ standards_ Despitethe current nonottainmeni status, air quality within the 55AB has generally improved rInce the inception a! 0Ir pollutant monitoring in I?7b- This improvement Is mainly due la lower -polluting on -road motor vehicles, more stringent regvlatian of industrial sources, and the implementation Qf emission reduction strategies by SCAG'MD- This trend toward cleaner air hat occurred in spite at continued population growth.. Despite this growth. air quality has improved significantly over the years, primarily due to the impacts of ttte region's air quality control program. PM levels have declined almost 50% since 1990. and PM_ levels have also declined 5D% since rneosuiements began in 1999 ISCAQMD 2013j. Similar improvements are observed with O, although the rate of O, decline has slowed In recent yen's_
Local Ambient Air Qualify
CAPB. air districts., and other agencies monitor ambient air grsaity at approximately 254 oa gsraahv monitoring stations across the state. SCAQMD monitors local ambient air quality in the region at the project sle, Air quality monitoring stations vsvaly measure pollutant concentrations 10 feet above ground level: thesefare. at quality is open referred to in terms of ground -level concentrations_ The most recent background ambient air quaity data irrsm 2017 to 2019 are presented in fable 3-3: Local Ambient Air Cluality Ddta_ The Perm Springs monitoring station, located at 594 Racquet Club Road, Palm Springs_ Cal-earn:la is the nearest air quality monitoring station to the project brie. Located upprcaxinatety 12,6 miles not hwesl of the project site. The data collected at this stotlon ore considered repeesentatiwe of the air quality experienced its the pwposed project vicinity. Alr quality data for O, CO: Ni.PM and PM:_rtrom the Palm Springs monitoring station ore provided in Ttinie 3-a LOcnl Arrttiient Air Ouallfy Bala. Because SO: measurements are not monitored at the Palm Springs monitoring stallion. the measurements were taken Nom the Rubidoux montoti g station I I 58E Mission Boulevard, f ubidoux, Coifamic. araproximately 6,9 miles northwest €rf the protect site), The number of days exceeraffrig The ambient at quality standards is also shown in Table 3-3, Local Ambient AK Quality Data,.
LIB yr Rrnchc Vik e
T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1930
RTC -101
Responses to Comments
0 6tatr-Crrlt n Rancho Mirage
inarial Slirchii Mitigated Negative Declaration
Jury R'D 4
Table S-3. Laced Ambient Xi Quality flake
MiaraiFw'ing
M lIan
L1n11
*weaning
luml
Agency/
Method
Aniiirent
rlrit
OuarOy
Stcmdtad
d Coneerrhulken W. Yaor
Lreeadkinces by Yalu
2r3 P7
2t1IS
20L9
20,7
Z0t8
2019
Ozrsra4 Pi
Pertn
Sprfrtpr
ppm
w+,arrinrunn t
haw
concentration
S.la1e
lI'+'
15.1 I i
(1. 1 ' 'I
RJOO
15 1 I
5 pvn
Mammon 8-
how
cancenbaFcn
Slate
0.010
0497
0.099
0 63'
I'ederd
4.070
012,97
CUM
CA0a
5?
56 39
-
Nitrogen 0(exid (NQ?J
Pahl
WINO
porn
Maximum I-
hose
concertfraton
Sitrle
Li Id
t)::•4#
0.1043
0.04 II
0 0
0 FecleAti
u. IQ)
C.) 04.3
0A43
0.041
0 0
o
pvm
Annu+cd
crarrcentrur6an
Stale
0.000
r1D0r
0407
0,03726
0 0
O
Federici
0.053
0.0365
4..'0068
0.0)726
0 0
0 Grxbea MonoxideJCO1
pt m
SOWS
p am
Ntos irro rn t-
hr<xrr
caracenlrCn
Sktte
20 I
I.1
113
0 Ci
0 retietai
35 I
1.1 1.3
0 0
0 porn
Maadnaum fa.
hat,R
concentration
Stale
9A
0.4 O -B
0.7 fT
0 0
Fe!dctd
4 0,4
0.B
0.7 0
0 SuRLurDioxkle 004
Fub'dcs..
ppm
Mcoirrum t-
hoot
contenitation
Faileyeit
0.1775
0,046
010017
'0..0018
e
0 r.
ppm
64co imdrn 24-
hour
czoncenlrcation
Federal.
0, I A
0.{701:
0.C00ti
0.0009
0 0
0 crR d Rancho WaQr
69 T2-2
Colt
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1931
RTC -102
Responses to Comments
kitr'esrten kanche Mirage
Initial Study,' tilktlgzted Negative Decimator'
or'
My 2024
Table 3.3. Local AmbEsnt Air Duality bolo
MortiJoring
Makin
UFt11
Award ing
firms
Aoentyr
Method
A•rnbienl
Ala
Quaakry
Standard
Meesund
ERceedances by Year
Concert, alien by Year
2017
20 re
20r9
2017
24111
2019
pPrr,
Ar,nu[a
cornentr tflan.
Fedei
(La)
0.rtn
0 0aM5
Cr.rJ 42
Chose
cuM . leloYer MAO*
Porn
Sprnng4
[gin,
Meaxlrn,jn124,,
haw
coneenlraPron
S1ta0e
5C?
rk35
37.4 5I.a
-
giedetd
ISO
105.6
422.3
;75.6
.4/m'
Annual
caartcentralian
Slate
;
NE
203
19.9 -
-
-
At* YatdtCuldie blotter .[PMj r]°
Pahl
spnnas
1Lgjm'
Maximum24- Federal
hour
concentration
35 i4.5
3O2
15.5 _t
0 r,
maim'
Annual
coneentrarhan
Slate
12 8.0
d.o
6.0 -
-
federal
170
8.1]
6.0 6.0
-
-
Seances: Appeaals A1 -
Mears, porn = park per entlarrn by vaMame; r _ atsutlithent Pala available to determine the vcMae: - = nol available storm! = rincrogrants pas eubd rneher. 17dto taken Irani CAhta IA'GtAM 'CARS 202.0t and EPA ArData Nip=rlwwxrape pavfafrdasalt represent the highest curcen4a11onr experienced paver 411 Wier Year
Exceed:loom at lstdoal and state skansianxs see anry themes Ica C1I wad partrcukate mast, Daly escsse*oancrfr fcr pcailruktter rw«Iles was extrrtrale;t days booause PM. and PM - • are not rrranliared daft. All it csi7eria padulants dad not exceed federal sae state stanclarck during the years shown. there Ono tsderul star -aura for I -hear ozone. annual PMr - or 24 -hour 54_ nor Is rht he b slats 2a -Meat Pandora to PM -.
Mean does nos satIi r nanlhaa rn dales rr teases react' ' Measurements cE PM, r and PM -are utua4y Ca*ected emery 6 clays and every I la 3 dasrarespectively Ma rare' of dads exceecIng the rlanda ds Is a rneeserotritssil Wanda. ar the n.:rnCaaa of days 6arrcentra ens w ld hove betel 1 iiserterhe ran the wry.' d 1 t *rOd hex] .0d-, riTy Or l ri Ores The ',nimbus Ira porenftern are urn ensue ed'comber at rarripies that exces ine standard. +Cy d mama,. Mr+rp
7[}
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1932
RTC -103
Responses to Comments
Ritz-Ctr+5n Rtotha Mirage
Initial Study/ Mitigated Ne 7htiwo RetJuation
July 21324
+Air Quality Significance Criteria
The SCA:QMD has estabfahed +V' Quaiv Significance Thresholds, as revised rn March 20)23; that set forth quantitative ernistion signIficance thresholds below which a project would riot have a sigrifcant Impact or; ambient air quality under e>;pting and cumulative condfflons. The quantitative air quaky analysis provided hereh applies the SCAOMD thresholds identifrvd in Table 3.4. SCAQM Alr Quality' Signifie.one e Thresholds to determine the pot enfial tor the proposed project to result in a significant impact under CEQA.
Table 3-4 SCAOMD Air Quality Sarificance Thresholds
Ctileaia Pollutants Mass Da11y Thresholds
1► 1lulanl
Consiyucl an (Pounds par Day)
Ppertstioa
froandn
p r'Oayy
VOCs
75 55
NO,
G 00
55 co
550
5O,
ISO
150
PMi.•
150
150
Pleas
55 55
Lod-
'
3 TACs and Odor Thresholds
TACs`--
Maximum incremerofal cancer rid 4 1) in 1 million
Chronic and acute hazard index - 1.0 iproject increment) Odor
Project creates an odor nuisance pursuant to SCAQWL RL4a 402 GtIG
10,00[ t•:tTr'yrGO- , for industrial taciirnes
lrrabieni Air Qualaly Standards far Oaf sda lbflulanis, NO., f hour average
NO2 oin ii l
urifhrnetrsr rnes>rr
SCAOMID is in attainment; project is significant if it causes Of contributes ft) an exceedance of the following alicon,ment standaads:
0.18 ppm )state)
'0.03O ppm (0ct* and 0.0 5,34 ppm (Iedercd)
CO i-hour average
CO 1 hour average
SCAQM0 is ii attainment; proect is srynifirnnf if it causes or contributes io an exceeclance of the tot -owing attanment standards,
2[t ppm )state] and 35 ppm [federal)
ctO pprn Mats/federal)
PtMli. 24 -hoot csveFage
PMi- anttUal crverage
10.4Irg/rrr3 lcorrfructioni,
'25 AgfrnY i$pocation)
1.Oµglrrig.
PM, -24 hour
average
10.4 uge'm2 (construcfiorb
a5 Rgfrrr' (opeiration)
SO:. I -hour average
557.24 -hour average
D.'2` ppm )state) P. 0.075 pp'' IFederal -9v", percerttri ej Q.04,ppm {state}
544frsrte 2d -hour
average
25 yg/rrx3: Motel
City or Rancho l•)rage
71 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1933
RTC -104
Responses to Comments
RItz•Carltran Rancho Mirage
Initial Study" Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
Table 3-4. SrAtWOID Air Qualify Significance Thresholds PoNuhanf
Lead 3t ray overage
Lead Rolling 3 month
r5'yera+:B
Source: Append'; A. I"SCA.C:MD 20231_
Notes; SCAOMD = South Coast Ar Quality M nagernen1 District; VGC = volatile or+gcardc aarrrpcunds; i.rO. = oxides of nitrogen. CO = carbon monoxide: SO, = sulfur oxides: PM := coarse particurate matter, PM'•.= = line particulate ratter: t/4C = taauc art contaminant; NO = nitrogen d .iklo: ppm = parts per Minors by vcsarree laQ1T = rirr ograms per cubic meta-.
GHG e-srr'sisstans tnrestiolds lot lndust:in' projects, as octd€d in the March 2015 reJsir;n to the SCAQr4#D Air Dually Slgnitioaricer Thresholds were neat include Irscluid d In treble 4 as they are odrNeased ',Meet' the GHG emissions !anah+sls Q ncl not the rah quality stuffy.
Fo€ Coochello VrtOey, rh e rocks dolly threshcrds Iar operatiarn ore the wens as the cr.onstructIon tiveshalrts.
The p naseout of leaded gasoline started it 1475. Since gasoline no lames contains lead.the protect Is notanttclpoted to result In impacts relarea to lead: therefare, it is not dscussed In ells ana;ysts.
TA's Include carcrrr..ruteris ®rid nancurc'rtragerti
Arti.xl.trt at quality standards for criteia postulants ere based an SCAOMD Rule 130.3. Table A -Z, souses otherwise stated
Amb lenl air quality threshold are based on SCA.GOAD Rule 403_ Cdlwsfa PddaaNMI, Mass Daffy Thews aids
Conabuctlon Pttruun a et D
i.S pg?m3 ijerateI
1.115 pgirn3 f; federal'
Clp e
(Pounds
er
3.2 DISCUSJIore of impacts
a) Less-than-SFgriN?caaal impact The project sMe Is located in the Cefy of Rancho Mirage within the Soot Coast Ai'r Basin iScABI. which, includes the noredeserdporiipni of Less Angeles, Piversiae, (rid San Bernardino Countiesand all of Orange County, and is within the jurisdictional boundaries of the South Coast Air Quality hnanogement Distract;SCA+QJMMD) the SCAQMD administers the SGAB's Air Quality Mernageernenf Plan (AQV PI which k rg carnprehensiv6 dvcumenI outlining an air pellututan control program for attaining the California Ambient Air OecriittyStand adds (CAADSI and hJafieanatAmbient Air Quality Standards KAAQSJ.
The :'',1722 ROMP was adopted on December 2, X22. and was developed to address the 2015 national ozone rtandard. The 2022 AQMP provides the regional path towards improving air guallty and meeting federal standards for Aiz pQllutalnts, The 2022 AQMP builds upon measures already in place from: previous AQMPs. It also includes a variety of additional strategies each as leguFation, accelerated deployment of avaNable cleaner technologies je.g_, zero emissions tec#tnelo+gies. when cosf-effective and feasffo9e, and low NO- te-chnologies In other nppllcatio•ns), best management practices, co -benefits from existing programs je}:g_, climate and energy efficiency), incentives. and other Clean Air Act measures to achieve the 20i,5 federal ozone standard. The 20122 ROMP provides actions, strategies toad steps needed to re duce air pollution emissions and meet ozone standards by 2037 FSCAQM D 20221.
CItx yr Rrnchc ?Ova
72 T2=2
Cant
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1934
RTC -105
Responses to Comments
Rltz.Carltvn Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
the purpose of a consistency flrrdteg with regard to the AQMP is to determine if o project is consistent with the assumptions and objectives of the regional air quality plans, and f it would Interfere with the region's ability to comply with federal and state air quality standards. The SCADIND has established criteria for determining consistency with the currently applicable Ac MP In Chapter 12 Sections 12.2 and 123 afthe SCAOMDCEQAA1rQuality Handbook. These criteria are as Iollows (SCAC5MD 1993}:
to address the first criierion, project -generated criteria or pollutant emissions trove been estimated and analyzed for significance and are addressed under Section 3.3(bl. Detailed results of this analysis are Included n sppendi.s AADeendix A- ..As presented in Section 3jbt. construction and operation of the proposed project would not generate csiferta ail pollutant emissions that exceed the SCAQMD'.t Thresholds and ft would therefore be consistent with Criterion No, 1.
Fhe second criterion seglardrig the potential of the proposed project to exceed the assureptlans in the A©MP or Increments based on the year of project buiidovl and phase is p-rimorrity assessed by determining consistency between the proposed project's hand use ttesienatlons and Its potential to generale populrlion growth_ In general. projects are considered consistent wish, and not In conflict with or obstruct implementation of, the Air Quality Management Plan jAQMPI If the growth they produce In socioeconomic factors Is consistent with the underlying regienni pions used to develop the .QMP f$C'AQMO 19931. The SCAI3MD primarily uses demographic growth forecasts for various socioeconomic categories te.g.. population. housing. and employment by Industry] developed by the Southern California Association of Governments fCCAG) for its 2020-2045 Regional Transportation Planre'slainable Communities Strategy [2020 R'TPfSCS, also known as Connect SoCall FSCAG 2020e SCAOMl7 uses this document, which is based on general plans tot cities and counties in the SCAB, to develop the A.r<JMP emissions inventory. The SCAG RTPtSCS, and ossocialed Regional Growth Forecast, ore generally consistent with the local plans; therefore, the 2022 AGMP is generally consistent with kcal government plans. SCAG has developed Connect SoCa1, the 2037-2045 RTP/SC' . which is a long -ranee visioning plan that balances future mobility and housing needs with economic. environmental and pubic health goals. Connect SOCal clads a path toward o more mobile, sustainable and prosperous region by making connections between transportatlon networks, between plertning strategies and between the people whose cclleborairon can improve the vaatsy el life for Southern Cal:rfornians. Connect SoCal embodies o collective vision for the region's future and is developed with input ham local governments, county transpe rf ation commissions, tribal governrnents non-prollt organizations. businesses and local stakeholders. within the counties at Imperial Los Angeles, Orange, Infermatrcn necessary to produce the emissions inventory far lire SCAB. is obtalnecs from the $CAQMI) oreeelder governmental agencies, including me Caliternlra Alf Resourc=es Basra. Calirans, and SCAG.
Each at these agencies is respcnsibre to- collecting data leg.. industry growth factors. socioeconomic protections, travel activity levets., emission faefor5, errrisslon speciailon profile, and emissions.] and developing n eihadatagies [e.g., model and de nogrophic forecast improvernenfsl required to generate a comprehensive emissions inventory SCAG inoaporales these data Into its Travel Demand Model ice estlhiatintiercjecting vehicle r ilos traveled and driving speeds. SCAG's s ciaecortomic and transportation activities projections in they 2040-20.53 Ragiarcri 7ranspxroflan Pkohf5ushahohit Correnvlrlties Strategy are Irrregroted it the 2022 A C?MP irSCAt3M D :26:: ), City or Renck ?1l r
73 T2-2
Goth
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1935
RTC -106
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura Connect SoCal was adopted by the !regional council on September 3, 2420.
As discussed in Section I t, Land Use and Planning, of this Initial Study, the project silo is currently zoned Resort Hotel ides -H) and Open Space; Mountain Reserve (MR) in the General Plan (City of Rancho Mirage 23178_ the proposed hotel suites Mt! vIPIea_s are located on the Ps -it parsed property and theretvre consistent with the Generrai Plan designation. This de.signatian allows for the development of hotels and destination resorts with limited, ancilary commercial uses. such as spas. recreational tacilities. restaurants. lounges, and small retail shops drat directly support the pitman+ use, The Sky Mew is located online MP zoned portion of the project site which is assigned to public lands or property subject Fa consenrafiran ecisFrnents in the Santa Pasa Mountains, Uses are limited to recce stianal activities, such ors hiking o, equestrian and non -molar ed bis:e trails and facilities consistenr with the need to protect sensitive biological resources. Vehicular access is not permitted in this designation under existing conditions. the Sky Nsescs partkan of the profeet would conflict' with the underlying laird arse designations. Howe ve.r, as part of the proposed projects the applicant is proposing an amendment to the Ciry's GehVOI Plan fh-oI would expand the Resort Hotel (Rs - H) designation and zoning to encompass the Sky Mesct ptartian of the site, which is a privateh+ owned property and nett public= land.
Pei the description of stowable uses fir R -H outlined above, the Sty Mel❑ Recraraiion Area would be consistent wills Rs•H zone. WIII, future approval and adoption of the zone change lay City Council, the proposed project would not conflict with the City's General Plan With regard to allowable band uses.
A5 diaCussed in -Section 14 Population and Housing, of this initial Study, SCAG reported the City's population lo be 18,739 persons as of 2488 (SLAG 20A 9a). In 2018 the City had a total of 14.492 housing units. and in 2017 the City had a total of 16,9O2 jobs ISCAG 2(?19a). by 2040, SC,AG projected the City to have a population of 2S.Cs04 persons and 20,E jobs ISCAG 201csj.
According to the City of Rancho Miage's General P1rin - Housing Element (City of Poncho mirage 21=4;4), the 20224-4' - 202 — Regional Housing .aleedt Avocation j4tF NAj determined that the City needed ca total of 1 746R6 housing units_ The proposed paaject would corsshuct tot resrdental units- However, these residential tills would operate similar to rime -share pirperties and mere are tuki, lesiderrtswould nol be in theproposed residential units yeah round, Because the proposed residential units are nat typical residential units that residents cannot occupy year-round, theses housing units do not count towards the RHNA housing unit determination, SCAG's Local Profile Report for the City of Rancho Mirage indicated that the City's via r household size was two persons per dwelling unit as of 2048 (SLAG 201tilaj. Using these assumptions. Imp4ementcafion or the proposed project would have the tbtem:hot to Increase the Lily's population by 216 persons this population increaser would comply with SCAG's projected population increase tar the City. Accordingly, the proposed project is consistent w lh the SLAG RTP/SCS forecasts used in the SCAQMD AQMP development.
In summary, based on the considerations presented for the two criteria, impacts relating to the proposed project'.- potential to conflict with or obstruct implementation of the ctppNcaabie ROMP w❑ uld be less than sigrrifitont.
CItyaiRrncha?Ova
74 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1936
RTC -107
Responses to Comments
Rita.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
b} less•fftan-Sllni7canf /impact Air pollution is largely a cumulative Impact, The nonattalnmenl status of repiorol pollutants a o result of past and present development, and the SCAQMD develops and implements plans for suture attainment of ambient air quality standards_ Based on these considerations, project -level thresholds of significance for criteria pollutants ore wed in the determination of whether o project's individual emission would have a cumulatively considerable conhifsuflon on ale quallry. If a project's emissions would exceed the SCAQMD significance thresholds it would be considered tea have a cumulatively considerable aontrihutiian. CQnversety, projects that do not exceed the project -specific thresholds are generally not considered to be cumulatively signific ant - A quantitative analysis was conducted tit determine whether proposed canshucHon activities would result in a cumulatively considerable net increase it emissions of criteria air pollutants for which the South Coast Air Baiirs'SCAB.) is designated as nonettafnmenl under the NAAQS or CAAQS. Criteria air pollutanh ksclude ozone ro 1, nitrogen dioxide INO.9, carbon monoxide (COI. sulfur dioxins rScD;J, particulate matter with can aerodynamic diameter less than or equal to IQ microns I;P11 sij, particulate matter wilts on aerodynamic diameter less than er equal to
2.5 microns (PM.al. and lead- Pollutants that are evaluated herein Include Voialife organic compounds IVQCsj and oxides of nitrogen (fiO). Which are important because they are precursors to C,. as well as Co.sulfur oxides jSO.j, Pfvl , and PM.
Regarding NAAQS and CAAOS attainment status,` the SCAB lr designated as o nonatIainment area tai national and California O and PM:- standards- The SCAB is designated as a nanattainrnent area for California PMT standards- however, it k designated as an attainment area for national PMv, standards, The SCAB nonattairment status of O,, PMa and PMhr. standards cs the result of cumulative emissions Isom wraious sources of air polutants and their pifeuesors within the SCAB. Including motor vehicles, off -road equipment, and commercial and incdusttlal facilities. The SCAB is designated as an attainment area far national and California NO CO, and SAO; standards Althoagh the SCAB has been designated as partial nonattalnrnent (Los Angeles counryJ for the federal rolling 3-manth overage lead standard. i! Is designated attainment for the slate lead standard.'
The proposed project would result to emissions of criteria ak pollutants for which CAR$ and U.S.
Environmental13otecrian Agency (EPA) have adapted ambient Pis qualty standards ice,. the NAAtaS and CAA SI- Projects that emit these pollutants have this potential 1❑ cause, or centilaute to, violations of these standards. The SCAQMD CEQA Air Qupll y Significance rhrtsstrotds Defer b Table 3.4 as revised in April 2319, set fort) -Quantitative emission slg.rifcancei A n area Is designated as in attainment when it Is in camplrancewith the riAAQS andrer the CAAIM, The h#AAQS and CAAQS are set tiV the Environmental Pratecti[n Agency f EPAJ and California Air Resources Bears (CARBI. respectttely, far the maaimUrrs lever of a given air pollutant that can east in the autesaar air without unacceptable eltects on human health or the public welfare. Attainment =meets the standards; allalnnuent)nniitenancc = ©chews the standards offer a rianiatfoinment desrgnafian:
none trainment = does not meet the standards.
' Re-clesignation al the lead HAMM designation to attainment far the Las Angeles County passion al the SCAB is er`oeeted based on current rncintrrxiig data, The phase out of leaded! 'i ,e started in 1975.
Since r lasalirie rcs longer con taiis €sad, the protect k hot antic goat2d tcsresult in impacts refuted la lead- tr,rerelure, It Is hat c:tscussed i ltirt onolvsls,
City ai Rrncha ?Ova
75 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1937
RTC -108
Responses to Comments
Rltz,Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
thresholds for criteria air pollutants, which, if exceeded, •would Indicate the potential fora project to contribute fo violations of the NJAACS or CAAQS.
A proposed projletl would result Ina substantial contribution to an exrsfirtg air qualifyviotatlon of the NAAr S or CAAOS for Cb, which is a nonattalnmenf poltulant, r7 the proposed projects construction or operational emissions would exceed the SCAOMD VOC or NO thresholds shown n Table 3-4. These emission -based lfireshoids far O-. precursors are intended to serve as o surrogate for an "ozone significance threshold' lie., e., the potentiaf for adverse O., impacts to ocouri because OT, itself is not emitted directtY, and the eltects of an individual prolect's emissions of O. precursors (VC?Cs and NO.t on .,3. levels In ambient air cannot be determined through air quality models or other quantitative methods.
The fat winrg discussion quantitatively evaluates project -generated emissions and impacts )hat would result from Implementation of the proposed project.
COnstrurcflctn Emisslans
Carlsln,cllo n of the propose d pro jecl would result in the temporary additional pollutants to the local csirshed caused by on -sire sourer,, fe,g . off -roar) construction equipment, soil disturbance, VCnC off -gassing from architectural coatings and asphalt pavement applical onJ crud oft -life sources re.±a.. vendor trucks, haul trucks: and worker vehicle trips,). Spectficolry, entrained dust results from the exposure of earth surfaces to wind from the direct disturbance and movement of soil resvlfhtg in PM., and PM.. emissions, Internal ClQrab scion engines used by construction eau pment, haullnraks: vendor trucks [Le., delivery trucks), and worker vehicles would result in emissions of VOC, NAG Co: PM, , and PM Construction emissions can vary substantially from day to day depending on the level at activity; the specific type of operation; and, for dust, the prevailing weather conditions
Application of architectural coatings, such as exterior paint and other finishes,, and application of asphalt pavement would also produce VOC emissions_ VOC off -gassing emissions result from evaporation of solvents contained in surface coatings .such as in paints and primers used during construction of the facility. CalE€Mod calcolat rs the VOC e-vaporative emissions from applicclio•n of surface coatings based on she VOC emissions factor, the building square toe. and the assumed froc+Ian at suriice area_ No-VOC pant, defined as paint wi+h vC'C content of 5 rgrormsfliter or less is proposed tar the project the proposed project would be required to comply with SCAT MD Rutz 403 to conbol dud emissions generated during any dust-genereitIng activities_ Stan-dosd construction practices that would be employed to reduce fugitive dust emissions include watering of the active dust argils up to Iwo times per day, depending on weather conditions. Rule 403.1 Is es supplemental rule to Rule 403 and is applicable to man-made sources of fugitive dust In Catrchella Valley.
Rule 403.1 requires a Fugitive Dust Conti, Plan approved by South Coast A MD or an Qulftnrized local gent rnrnenl agency prior to Initiating any constructlo•n{ earth -moving activity.
These requirements are only applicable to constiuctian projects with 5.000 or more square feet of surface area disturbance and therefore applicable to the proposed project.
Emissions from the construction phase of the proposed protect were estimated using the California Emissions Estimator Model ?CaIEEModJ version 2024.04.0. of conservative emission estimation. construction is assumed to begin in February 2023 and conclude in CIty ai Rrncha Mig7e
76 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1938
RTC -109
Responses to Comments
Rltz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
Novernbei 2024. In lase event actual construction proceeds longer than this assumption,, this analysis provides o conservative approach resulting in slighttyr higher daily emissions and annual emissions. While February 2023 has already passed, assuming the earliest start date and auration for construction represents the worst -case scenario for criteria air pollutant and GHG emissions because equipment and vehicle emission factors for later years would be slightly less due to more stringent standards for In -use off -road equipment and heavy- duty trucks. as well as tteel turnover replacing alder equipment and vehicles In later years.
Therefore, despite the tact that the construction schedule used ter modeling has previously passed, given it represents the worst,cose scenario, the analysis is dill valid. Construction is expected to lost 22 months_ A detailed depiction at expected construction sChedules— Including information regarding phasing, eguIpmenl used during each phase, trucks, and worker vehicles —is provided in Appandta- Appendix A-1. Gemara' construction equipment madeng assumptions are provided in Table 3-S, Constnsctlon Scenario Assumptions. The applicant provided protect specific values for equipment mix for all construction phase_ Equipment horsepower, and load factors were based on CalEEntod defaults. The project site is currently vacant and site preparation included clearing rind giubbing has previously been performed and as such is not part of this analysis.
During the grading phase at construction, If is anticipated that approxlmaiety ti,4 0 cubic yards of material woutd be exported, and no material would be imported. For the analysis, It was generally assumed that heaysr-auto construction equipment would be operating at the site 5 days per week, (Detailed construction equipment rnodellna assumptions are provided in Appendix A.APcendis es-
LIB ai r i is ?Ova
77 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1939
RTC -110
Responses to Comments
Rrtr-Carlten Ranenn (Mirage
Irstul Study) Mugeted Negative Declaration
July 2424
fable 3-?_ Camf-beton &cennrIt Assumptions
Cons'ruction
Phone
One -Way Vehicle Teps
Eau
llAttre risrsi
Mae Dale
schedt__
Finish Dais.
Average
Daffy
Worker
Ws
Average pally
Vendor Truck
T,l$
7oksl Rua
Truck nips
'ypes
Wage
Nssvix
8 22 I/ 22i
3/2. i?3
I
n
Ir.�i_'c•,'.r_� .er„
2 B
C rr arKt
2 B
_1cc otcrr
2 B
9utap,rl
Corrr;'ucl,c, a
Ng
Ai
p1
Cranes
I
3,721X2.]
IVElf 224
Fprkl1is
?
B
Genet7tur Seto
I
8 Trorton/Loriders/
Bizic aloes
3 7
WelcaLrs
B
Pcwir.0
7J
PCP
197
Peve.ars
2 B
B121 J
9M",,l/2024
Pawtgfciair?rnrenl
2 B
Makers
2 B
Arctrtecturtal
Coding l
Pktlds Phan
+
40 AirCornpresscrt
I
6 W9812024
IOP.5(22124
Noire Sege A ppend<--4A r tt is -1 lur tuhah Two. one-way TMk+t veil be sstturned per warker. per haul truck.. and per vendor 1.4cl. err al Rants Mrs@a
is
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1940
RTC -111
Responses to Comments
RIIR-Centem Rancho Mirage
Initial Study/ Mltlg,ated Nel}sltivo RetJuatian
July 2024
Fable 3-a, Estimated Mazlrrlum Daily Construction Criteria Air P4lutant Emissions - Unmitigated, shows the estimated mardmum daily construction emissions associated with the construction phase of the proposed project
Table 3-6 Estimated Maximum Daily Ccnsrlruci un Emissrions- Iinrnifagafed VOC NOa CO SO. me Phizs°
puuncfs per okay
2O`"x,
3.39 35.5:i
28,7:i
{J..r0T
4.10 2,135
2O24
x,15
.3018
4O9E1
Q10
4-.5[t
2,03
Maximum Daily
Er niestani
6,I5
36,63
40,93
0.13 +k54
2-0
SCAt MD Throishcihd
75 100
S50.
f5al
ISO
SS
NotedTlyeahcld
exceededV
No
No
No
No
Na
Na
Source= S.CAGMEI2014•,
Notes VOC = volatile organic compourict NO = Dairies c.i nitrogen, CO ` carbon crranoxlde' SO = sulfur asides; Prytaa = coarse particulate matter, PM: -.5 = in particulate matter; SCAQMD = South Coast Au Quality fAc nag -omen t Distriict.
See Appor=df.' AFor ras A- Licrdetailedresults.
inese estimates s relle :l control cat reglirve dust required 4y SCAC1MD Rule 4x3 speorkoolly, watering al acti le oraas two trries per dray,
As shown in Table E treated Maximum Daily Construction ErnRssionss - Ursrnitigated, doily ponstrt.c on emissions would not exceed the SCAOMD signitconce 9 -rest -sods for VOC, NO, CO, SO, PM n,. or PM-- during oroject Laldtrucifork. Tnereforea construction impacts of her proposed project would be less than sip ni5cra rtt and no mitigation measures are required, Oparatlanal Ernlaslons
Operation of the proposed project would produce VOC„ NO. CO, SO., PM , and PM.= em/salons associated with vehict#ar lrofftr areo sources Iciansumer pea•riucts, archifeerural cootiri . landscaping eq iprnent}. energy sources 'natural gas, appivancesandspace and water heatingi. and stationow Leces /emergency generallmj, CadE MQd wogs used 1a e,timale daily es -nimbi -4 fram these apeaaticnal sources including modeling the omissions at a I:,3C0ihossepower [hp) diesel - fired emergency generator based on I -hour per clay and SO -hours per yew .p1 rlpera1ian ,per SCAQMD Rue 1470, which omits emergency generators fo 5{ -hours of use per year for maintenance bald resting. CoEEMod default emission motors were useCk fray the ploppsed generator. corresponding with the install dates.
Dn•road vehicular emissions associated with the proposed project operation were modeled using trip generation rates for the Rita-Cortfon residences. Sky Mesa Restaurant. and weekend special events at the proposed project venue space estimated by Urban Crossroads- the venue space was modeled in CaIEEMod as on arena ,additional modeled land uses include the parking garage with elevalor, swimming pools driveway parking and paved !Oath.
Emissions from energy sources also include natural' gas combustion for appliances and space and water heating- Ca4EEMod defaults were also used for area sources [landscape maintenance aquirtrienf, opnsumes pe,tjdueis, and architectural coatings far maintenance of bu3dingsJ.
City of Rands Ilrage
79 T2-2
Coiit
Page $C of 253 in Comment Letter T2
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1941
RTC -112
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2O24
fable 3-7, unmated Mmsemum Daly operational Emissions, sumrnorixes the maximum daffy area, energy. mobile, and slotionary (emergency generator) emissions of criteria pollutants that would be generated by the development of the proposed project and how emissions compare to the SCAQMD thresholds of significance: Ai shaven the increase in all criteria polutants Is. below SCAc MD thresholds. The values shown are the maximum summer or winter daily emissions lie., foreseeable worst case] results Ism CoIEEMod,. Details of the emission calculations are provided in h.ppendie AAooenc a A•
Table 3.7. Esllrnalvd Maximum. Daily Oparaltarlal Errllnlons A_01s1tpR_
VOC J NOs I co SO. I'1I71w• 1 PM *
(Pound's per dux)
Proposed Prnlleci
Area
a23
0.10 B.Eto
Ztr.0I
1105
0.05 Energy
EA 13
1.12 0.77
0.01 0.09
0.09 Mollie
529
7.37 52,.x3
0.12 1246
3.39 5lationdry
1.97 13.191
5.02 0,01
0-29
0.3d'r
Total
1042
17.40 64.8.2
13,14
12.14 I 3-83
SCAQMD Threehald
73 100
550
150
150
.SS
Threshold Exceeded?
No
Na
Na
No
Na
Na
Source: Itppordir; 4Appe rats A- .
Noterc VOC ` uolot anadeid campaurvic l;IOrs ` a k3ar of nitrogen; CO ` carbon rranarade: SOx ' sulfur ,axles: PMI0 = coarse particulate maths: PM2.5 = line pcallculale naHer.
Area 4r—ANCres = consumer prc3uct we architectural coatings. a and landscape maSitenarice equipment.
Energy sateCes, natural gay. Maude sources _ motor vehicles, Stationary sources r emergency gerneralcx. 5 I A.l for detailedresrslts, The values shown are the maximum summer cr winter 410lly emissions results from CaIEEMod.
As shown In Table 3-7, Estimated Maximum Daily Operational Emissions. the increase in emissions associated with the operation of the proposed project would not exceed the SCAQMD Thresholds for VOC. NO., CO, SO„ PM ;, or PM.
As previously discussed, the SCAB has been designated ce a federal nonatlalnrnenl area tar 0: and PM_=, and a state nonattainrneni area for Cs,, PM, and F.M. ,_ Construction and operational activities of the proposed projecl would generate VOC anti NO emissions 1preeursarr to O,.j and emissions of PM' ,• and PM.�. However, as indicated to tables 3.6 and 3•
7. project-geleroled emissions world not exceed the SCAQMD emission -hissed significance thresholds for VOCs, NOx. PM • or PM ,, and therefore the proposed project would riot cause o cumulatively significant impact,
Cumulative localized Impacts would potentially occur if a project were to occur concurrently with analhor oft -site project. Schedules for potential future projects near the proposed project area are currently unknown; therefore, potential impach associated with two or mare simultaneous projects would be considered speculative .= However, future projects would be subject to CEQA and would regcrie an air quality analysis and, where necessary, mitigation.
The CEQA. Guidelines sidle that Ira parilculci impact is too spetulative la -evaluation, the agency should rrolo Its cs lokasicrr and terminate discussion or the impact is4 CCP 151451.
LIB yr Rinclia ?Ova 80
T2-2
Goth
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1942
RTC -113
Responses to Comments
Ritz,Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
Criteria air pollutant emissions associated wllh construction activity or future projects would also be reduced through implementation of control measures required by the SCAQMD.
Cumulative PM,,. and PM. • emissions would be reduced because all future projec Is would be subject to SCAGMD Rule 403 {Fugitive DentJ, which sets forth general and specific requirements far all sites In the SeAOMl3. In addition, cumulative YCC emissions would be subject to SCADMI] Rule 11 i3I'Architectural Coatings/.
therefore, the profsased project would not result in a cumulatively considerable increase in emissions of nontaticainment perk/tants. and impacts would be lass than significant during construction and operation, tea mitigation is required. a ss-tlmn-ag:Scant impact with MsMMIQgoRnn Incorporated.' Localized project imports associated with corssiiuction criterip air pollutants emissions are assessed below and were determined lo be less than significant. Sensitive receptors are discussed In defull In Section Sensitive Receptors,
Localized Significances Thresholds
A located significance threshold (LSTJ analyst was performed to evaluate lacaIzed ail greatly impacts ter sensitive receptors in The immediate vicinity of the project site as a result of project activities. The impacts were analyzed using methods consistent with those in the SC.AOMD's final Locafixed grsiiieance Threshold Methodology (20031. The project site is Located within Source- Recepfor Area W. (Coachella valleyle
The greatest on -site daily omissions of r4Qx. CO. and P .4,.i,generated during construction occurred during itae grading period of the protect construction. Biased on line construction schedule. 'twos assumed that one grader, one rubber lied dozer- two scrappers and two crovyler tractors IC.alEEMod category, trnctorea eiertbackhoesJ would be used bused on the applicant provided ceretructian equipment schedule. ColEEMsd default 'values assume that during an 3 - hour dray, graders, rubber tired dozers rand crawler tractors can each disci le a maximum of 0.5 bcres and scrapers =loch disturb one acre, This results in a total of fare acres disturbed roes day from the equipment. The SCA.OMD LST values far 2 acres eared 5 acres within Source —Receptor Area 30: with a nebrby receptor dfsttirtce of 2e meters j 2Ieet), were used to Irllerpalote values far the proposed project's 4Facre lute rbrance per day, Project construction activities woLed result in temporary sources of Oreille criteria air pollutant emissions associated wall consfrucion equipment exhaust and dust-generotIng o livings_ According b the Final Localized Sigrritcance Threshold hherhedotogy, "oft -site mobile emissions from the proposed project should not be Included n the a miSpellS Ebrnpoied to the LST.' iSCAt3MD 21]78/. Trucks and worker trips associated with rho proposed project are not expected lo cause substantial air qualify impncl3 fq senslf¢ve receptors along aft -site raodways since emissions would be relatively toot in nature and wouldcease once the vehicles pass through the main streets, Therelare, eft -side ernissinns horn trucks and worker 4ehIcle trips era not Ire led In the LST analysis, For the on -site portions of operation of Ducks and worker vehicles_ trips were limited to I .coo feel (assumed on -site dBTanceJ- The rnarimum dolly on -site carutructien emissions generated during construction of the proposed project is presented in Toble 34. Construction Localized 5lgniliconce thresholds Analysis, and compered to this SC.AOSAD localized significance LIB vt Rrnchc Mine
81 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1943
RTC -114
Responses to Comments
Rltz.Carlten Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
ariterld for Source -Receptor Area 9d to determine whether project -generated on -site construction emissions would result in potential LST impacts Table 3-8_ Construction Localized Signiicnnce Threstsalds Analysis Year
It02
CO PM* I !Mors
pounds perda (9n sag
_'u:'3
_
34 7 20.36
3.77 1..45
2024
2629
34.36 1.20
I ,09
Maximum Dally on sic Emissions
34.76 34.8d
3,77
1.95 SCAQMia 1,3T CrfferJa
266,33
I.96,1,01)
J 0.62'
7,00
Threshold Exceeded'?
No
Na
giro
No
$rttlarcwT: AC'pE> etit ai+raraerrd x A• ..
Notes; NC: = rdtrogen d xtde: CO = carbon monoxide. FM .; = particulate matter Phdvr, = flee particulate rrrar4e S CA C9,4O = South Coast At Ctioolity Mr anogement Distract SST = located sig*r+taoance threshold.
See Appandie-A.Apper x A-1 lcr detailed results.
Lacadaed signtlicance tlre=.ttolds are shown fcc a 4 -acre project site and dstance of .^5 meters (S2 teetJ to the necsest sensitive receptor.
As shown in Table 3-8; proposed construction activities would not generate emissions in excess of else -specific Ms. Furthermore, in compliance with Prooil:f r AO 1.1C. describe€£ in the City's General Plan, the City will coardinaate with developers and encourage the phasing and staging of development to assure the lowest construction related pollutant emission levels practical rend imp.00se mitigation measures. including the use of water taveks and temporary Stigation systems, as well as other measures that will effectively limit fugitive dust emissions resulting From construction or other site disf ,rbanre,Therefcare, racclized project construction impacts would be lest than sipnWcant. No mifrgatien is required.
CO Haftsafs
Traffic -congested roadways and intenecfions have the potential to venerate IocaIFed high levels of CO. Lo-calzed areas where ambient concentrations el~ceed federal anviloa state siandold3 for CO ere termed CO "horspots." CO trGnspcnr is extremely limited and disperses rapidly with distance from the source.. Under certain extreme meteorological conditions. however, CO cenaentretlons new a congested roadway or intersection may reach unhe[slew levels, effecting sensitive receptors, Tyvlcally. high CO concentrations are asso-clated with severely Congested Intersections operating 01 an unacceptable level of service (LOS) 'LOSE or worse is urtacceptablet- Projects contributing to advere traffic impacts may resufl in the formation of a CO hotspot. Arsdallonal analysis of CO hotspof Impacts would be conducted if a project would result its a significant impact or contribute to an adverse traffic impact at a signalized Intersection that would potenllally subject sensitive receptors to CO hafspots_ The Code of Federalltegulations (CFR) Procedures tor Determining Lactated CO. PM e, dnd PM:
Coneenrrations shot -spat analysis). states that 'CO , Pete and PM, hot -spot analyses ere not required t€s consider construction -related activities, which cause temporary increases in emissions, Each site which is affected by construction -related abtirifees shall be considered separately. using established 'Guideline' methods. Temporary dncreesea are defined os these which occur only during the construction phase and Fast five years' or less at any Endive:Fuel site" CIty ai Rancho Mine
82 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1944
RTC -115
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2O24
t4O CFR 91123405i]. While project construction would Involve on•road vehicle trips from trucks and workers dtrrrtigconsiruction, construction activities are considered temporary. As a result, the proposed construction activities would not require a project -level construction hotspof analysis, Projects conhiutinp to adverse traffic impacts may result n the formation of CO hotipolsTo verily that ilia protect would not cause or contribute to a vicricilon of the CD standard, d acreeming ev€sluotbn of the potenkial rot CC hohpots was conducted. The irafffc krtpact study for the proposed project, which is included ifttttis Initial Strudy as Appendix IF, and Section 17 of this Initial Study evaluated wheih-ei there would be a decrease In the level of service tLOSI. Oa., increased congestion) at the interaections affected by the proposed project The potential tor CO ttotspots was evaluated based on lane results of the teaffic impact study, The CQrlfvrrrsla Department of Transportation Institute of Transportation -Studer Dansportafi rn'ro)ect- evel Cotton Monoxide Protocol iCO Protocol; Callrans 2131s0I was totowed lot this anat./sirs. CO halspoPs are typically evaluated when [II the LU5 at an intersection decreases to LOS E or worse; (2j sig otaiion randior channef¢ation is added to an intersection; old $3J sensitive receptors such at iestdences., schools, and hospitals are located In the vicinity of file affected Intersection roadway segment, the proposed prrxjecl's traffic impact study evaluated 3lntersectrons ncluding Fronk Sinatra tariver and Di y 1, Fronk S+rtotro Drive rand D y, 2, and Rimy 1 1 I and Fronk Sinolral Drive. As determined by the traffic Impact study, the addition of Ph a proposed project traffic to study nrea Intersections did not result In dekcieni intersection LOS operations Therefore, further analysis is not required_ Accordingly, rho proposed project would not generate traffic that would contribute to potential adverse traffic impacts That may result n the fotmalhon or CO ttotspots Pr! udditior> due to contrnued improvemenl In vehicular emissions at a role faster than file mate of vehicle growth and/cif congestion, itie potential for CO hohpols In the SCAB Is steadily decrearna Based on these considerations, the proposed project would result in a taws-Ittan•stgnlflcant inipacl fro ys quality with regard to potential CO hotspots- t mitigation is required.
Taunt Air Confaminanfa
Toxic air conlarni-saran ftA.Cs) are defined os,substances than friary clause or contribute to an increase in deaths or in serious i>n? s, or thai mdy posed preaant or potential hazard to human health As dscussed under the LST analysts, the nearest sensitive receptors are single tomity residential dwellings adjacent and south at the project site, rleullh effects from carcinogenic ar tom ore usually descrtiedirtterms of cancer risk. The SCAQMD recommends an incremental cancer risk trueesh>o4d GI ld in I rnlllon. "incremental cancer nsk" is the net ncreosed likelihood that cocoon centnuausly eirpcsed to concentrations of TAcs resulting tram u prod vvef a 9•, 30•. and 7'0 -year exposure period wil contract cancer based on the use of standard Office a+ Environmentri Hearth Hazard Assessment fOB1HAJ risk -assessment methodology {CET--iA 2O15). In adddion, some TACs have non•carcinogenic effects The SCAQMD re.00mfnert, sa Hazard Index of 1 or more far acute (short-term) and chronic tlona—la mj non -carcinogenic effech^ Nonaancer adverse health risks are measured against a mallard index, which is defineci as the ratio of the ptedcted incremental exposure cancer !torians aI the various non-cardnaeens tram the projeal to published reference exposure levels that can cause adverse h.acaittn effects, CIIy ai Rrnchc ?Ova
83 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1945
RTC -116
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage:
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
f ACs that world potentially be emitted during constipation activities associated with develapnrint a f the proposed project would be diesel particulate maker, T]leselbark iA matter iDP'.M]ernisvariswoad beemitledtr rn heavy equipmentaperaffarsand hea+v-duty trucks, Heavy -truly canshuclion equipment is au ject to ra Cratlomia Aa Resources Board rCARBJ Airborne Toxics Control Measure for in -use diesel construction equipment to reduc e diesel pceiictrote emissions. As described for Ilse LSr analysis, PM"r ;representative of diesel p[ar ficr late moiler' exposure would be minimcd. According to the €iB-IHA, health risk assessments ;which determine the exposure of senailive receptors 4o toxic emissions) should be based on a year expose period for the maximally exposed indfraidtusar resident,,y', HP IItY R+� € tcatottliz been prepared for I -re aaroiec , and the construction I -RA for the prof= -- CO+sstNCiiOr* O M Ortl $lt }nl r'U4r d resu- in Q l7lkterlior maximum cancer JO in one minor, prancer risk threshold and a potential chronic 'sword Hi- •:•nor ' i, 0 Chronic I- c z rG nc-x tires -re O, In Thc- obsenc€9. (jl rTxfiaati^4rt, Iecaptreing tflterrifli maxim' +r -r- cancer as at the MEIR exceeds the .applicable CECKA threshold, project construction would result In a p- aSerlt J1v sip+'Y11e rent impact it nuhslotlon were not impsea pAlllpp'ion Measure MM-ilQ-t has been set larth fO f dUC,e lalyftrl and C1r1Y' trSsec cited cancer risk. t11141 -A41 slates fho% prior tq 'he commencement of oonstiuction aclivitles, the appliCQnt shill retruiuej1 ct+ns1rur:tim contractor o derrltanslrate.1ha1 a I TS-7r1r_e xwslaf clrecll f diesel,taow rgc equipment is powered writ, CARE-cetrred ter ,s encines, tNG":ev0r. 0uoF+a,.ram ,..l...l-- be limited to tiro putiod/duratian a- activities ossociatod with the proposed project_ The durat en of - - eeaad.
p i-e_._.eiorer". _ b.
__. ins-,w� Qg th
` stiluta a EmaN peraent ofthe 30iye.ca
.._
*tiposr'rrs pons[' The construction per;od to,. inn r'.^r"sad prover) woud ba crppro°imrtrt it Z moiel14 4104 -carat ci m'''''oos w auld cedar c - DUO to this rotatively short periot. of exposure arid rninii-l•iluar"ie'J!'al^ r,"s.i:: s I si = garierrai&d curing consttuc"ion Fallowing compreiion of on -site construction activities, the proposed project would not involve routine operational activities that would generate LAC emissions other then intermittent maintenance and testing of the natural diesel -fired emergency generator, which would be limited to 50' hours per'year: SC AQ4.413 Rule 1470i krnifs operation of emergency generators to .O hours per year for maintenance and testing). Due to Phis relatively short period of exposure, small engine site of 1he emergency generator ;1,20O hpJ, and minimal orrsite particulate emissions from other sources TA's generated during operation would not result in concentrations causing significant health risks as demonstrated Through SCAC}MEr' Risk Assessment Tool for Rule 1401 and 212. fVersion ₹1-11. The Risk Assessment Tool. a spreadsheet progaarn, was used to perform a screening revel evaluation of the cancer and non -cancer heallh err etts of the emergency generator emissions pursuant to Rule 1401, see illisoesexseilo f,Annendix A• for program results. As shown n irippene.ii ks , the emergency generator passesiler II Maximum IridilwiduaIC ncer Risk;Mlc'RF, Far the reasons described rabvve, the proposed project would not result In s-ubstaniisal TAC exposure to sensitive receptors in the vIcinlly of the proposed project with the inclusion of MM- &cid, and imp -acts would be Inn than sfyrriilcssni with rntiitq'iQr P' a g .g glyitrri Neatib Effects of Criteria bb Pollutants
CItx ai Rrncha Mk�e
84 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1946
RTC -117
Responses to Comments
RItz,Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July ?_1324
Construction of the proposed project would generate criteria cslr pollutant emissions: however.
VIE project would not exceed the SCAGMD mass -emission thresholds.
Health effects associated with 0, include respiratory syrinptprns. waisa.ning of lung disease leading to premature death, and drainage to lung ti€sue. VOC-s and NO, are precursors to 0,, for which the SCAB is designated as nonaffainmenf with respect to the tJ,AAQS and CAAQS. Thus. existing i7 levels in the SCAB ore at unhealthy levels during certain periods.
Because the project would not involve construction or operational activities that would result protect b not anticipated to substantivally contribute to regional O3 concentrations and the assacsaated health impacts.
Exposure to 40_ and NO, can inflate the lungs, cause bronchitis and pneumonia, lower resistance to respiratory infections, and enhance allergic responses. Project construction and operation would not exceed the SCAOMD NO. threshold, and existing ambient ND concentrations are below the NRAQS and CMS, Thus. implementation al Itiae project rs noI expected la exceed the lJO_ standards or contribute to associated health effects, Health effect associated with CO include chest pain In patients with heart disease, headache, light-headedness, and reduced mental alertness. CO tends to Oa+a a localized impact asaockf d with congested interne-ctipns. CO hotpot were discussed previously as a leas than significant impact. Thus, the proposed project's CO emissions would not contribute to The hearth effects associated with this pollutant.
Particulate matter exposure has been linked to a variety at problems, including premature death In people with heart qr lung disease, nonfatal heart attacks, irregular heartbeat. aggravated asthma, decreased lung function, and increased respir;ata v symptoms such as irritation or the airways, coughing. or difficulty breathing {EPA 20161. The SCAB is designated as nanaltainrnent tear PM, under the CAAQS and n rnattainment ern M. under the NAAQS and CAAQS. Implementation of the proposed project would not generate emission of PM or FM. that would exceed the SCAQMD's thresholds, Accordinsgly, thf proposed project`s PM, and PM •, emissions are not expected la cause any unciease in related regional health effect tor these pollutants., impacts would be leas than significant r so mitigation is required, In summary. the proposed project would not result in a potentially significant contribution to regional concentrations of non-Mc3inmeni pglfulanls and would not res 41 In a significant contribution to the adverse health effects associated ,enter those pollutants with trirwlemen`atlon of MM -Ali -1. Impacts would be less than significant rift rnilioolkari- F
omi
Talton is required,
less-Hron-Slgni&rcurrf Impact, The occurrence and seventy of potential cedar impacts depend crrr iiurtrerous factors. late na1. iu. frequency- and intensity of the source; wind speed and dlrec hon: and the sensitivity al rece viigg location each contrIbute to the identity of the impart_ Although offensive odors seldom cause physical harn-r. they can be annoying. cause distress among the pubic, and genegate cIti2en complaints,
During construction of the proposed project, exhaust from eotipment may produce discernible odors typical of most construction stiles, Potersfiral odais produced during construction would be LIB air Rrncha ?Ova
85 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1947
RTC -118
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
attributable Oa cancenfiaitcnsof unburned hydrocarbons from tailpipes of cons nuction equlpfrlent- However. such odors woukt disperse rapidly from the project s'rfe and generally occur al magnitudes that would not affect substant'ralrsumbers of people. Accordingly, Impacts associated with odors doing construction would be less than significant SCAQMI] provides a list of land uses associated with Odor concerns, which Include agricultural uses: wastewater treatment plants. food -processing plants. chemical plants. composting. refineries, IandfI s; dairies, and fiberglass cooking ISCAQMD t993). The proposed protect includes operation of hotel facilities, and restaurant spaces. which are not anticipated to generale odors arid does not result in operation of the types of and uses listed in SCAQMD's screening criteria, For the recscns described ctibOvv. proposed protect construction and operation would result in can odor impact that would be lass than significant to mitigation is required. 3,3 Mlfigcrtion Measures
No mitigation is rsai cued,
M it 0.1 Ccnshucllon Faulamfni — Use al liar 4 Enainrt
Prior to f-ie commencernen- of construction ac •Mtlesfor the profecLtls: OOP icon" s nqjj recl)te ls conitnrc'ion epntrcictor to !Caltprna Air Pt -ARB- pestitlec tier al ptrtet fatal] desel'powere€i eQtitprnent die ss that ar 75 Esc, isepower aa.fare4lgf Ilv.as.rahaul all phases cf.cartsinxl orb
In the event of chans3ed circumstances real., clroandes In the availabifl e specific lopes al canshuclion equipment . the applicant may submit a request Io the Ci'v lc oppry or? eau) aten- reel nod or achieving Male c1-cienefoled Eonslauclic..n that rnll below the numeric cdncec risk slandoads established by the • _. ... -.,.
Cluafity Manaiaem€n0 Disi,ict r5CACttvlDY, Documentation usinra industry-stancsard emission estirrraion me'nocoOates Pisa be furnished `o the Cih demons ia-n©-na estimated oroiec •venerates cons uction emissions would not exceed the aoolicable 5CAQMD cancer rise Inres'1od wits the atemafe cons -rue' on me' nodCsl. 0 tie documentation demonstrates that pro ect-assnerated construction emissions will remain below the makable SCAGMD cancer risk threshold, them the City may approve lne alternate conshua.tiarmelhacifs), rJt the City's discretion. be iric
el:,
astructior eglr�nNnt [I -=et
in the contract. srecifiep'icns'':•r earn
es arnrxroved iav the City sh
cants construe
on compactor
LIB ai Rrncha ?Ova
86 T2-2
Conit
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1948
RTC -119
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
4, BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES — Would the
project:
Potentially
Significant
h-i oact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
IncarYoratiaii
Less Than
Si.r. -i=i' lilt
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 WildlifeSety€ce7
I— I
1-1
.
b) Have a substantial adverse effel. i
an any riparian habitat or other
sensitive natural community
identified in beat or regional plans,
poiides, and regulations or by the
California Department of Fish and
Wildlife or US Fish and Wildlife
Service?
li
L
t
LI
c) Have a substantial adverse eftec:
on state or federally protected
wetlands (including, but not limited
to, marsh, vernal pool, coastal, eta)
through direct removal, f€lling,
hydrological interruption, or other
mans?
LI
I I
i !
r]
d) Interfere substantially with the
movement of any native resident
or migratory fish or wildlife species
or with established native resident
CIF migratory wildlife corridors, or
impede the use of native wildlife
nursery sites?
❑
u
!]
❑
e) Conflict with any local policies or
ordinances protecting biological
resources, such as a tree
preservation policy or ordinance?
!_
■
CItx ai Rrncha ?Ova
$7
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1949
RTC -120
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
Initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
Less Than
Significant
Potentially
With
Lena Than
BIOLOGICAL RESOURCES- -- Would the
Significant
Mitigation
Sagnifscant
No
aroject:
Impact
Incorporation
Impact
Impact
fJ Conflict with the provisions of art
adopted Habitat Conservation
Plan, Natural Community
Conservation Plan, or other
approved focal, regional, or state
hakrltat ccarlServation elan?
I
[ i
i
[]
4..1 5atting
This section is partially based upor, the Biological Resources Report prepared by Dudek tor the Sky Mesa Recreation portion of the prajecI {,Appendix HI. As the Residences porfron of the closed site has been analyzed for potential Impacts to biological resources as part at the 2000 EIR and subsequently cleared and graded It IS only briefly discussed In This section.
The Residences Area pr the project site is vacant and has been extensively graded. The surrounding areas to the east and north ore also disturbed, developed urban areas. Surveys conducted n 2006 for the Residences portion kiclicuted that sensitive species known to occur n the area include the Coachella desert snail. chuckwatlo, and the Peninsular bighorn sheep (City of Rancho Mirage. 2006).
The project site is located within the Coachella Valley's Maniple Species Habitat Conservation Plan iCVMSI-CPJ area of interest, and the Santa Rosa :and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area is located just south of the project's proposed Sky Mesa Recreational AI ea iCVMSHCP 2016I_ the Sky Mesa Recreation Area Is vacant, WIth a portion that has bean partially graded and the remairbng areas containing native desert vegetation along steep slopes. A total of sixvegetation cornmtrnIlres •and [and cover types occur within the study area based on general physacgnorny and species composition. Four vegetation communities were mopped +and Include brittle bush scrub, creosote bush - brittle bush scrub, lountart grass swards, and tamarisk thickets, and two land covers 'disturbed habitat and urbanldevetapedl occur within the Sky Mesa Recreation Area,
4.2 Discussion of Impacts
at Less-than-Signitrcarrd Impact with Mikra k n Incorporated. The proposed Residence Area of the project site hos been extensively graded and Is not likely support any candidate, sensitive, or tpecicl stratus species (Cit3 of Rancho Mirage 2'4061•
No federaty gr state -listed plant species hue a potential l❑ coca within the proposed Sky Mess.+ Recreation Atea of the project site_ There are no specraktatus plant species with a moderate or Nigh potential tooccur.NoTeed ornon-listed toe.1aFstestuswi iHespecs were incidentally observed during the June 202 I blologcaF survey. One federally and state -Este(' species has a moderates potential to occur within the study arse[ P,ar insJcr bighorn sheep. Peninsular bighorn sheep k tovert&d under the CVMSHCP. One ran-lsted species has a roaderrate potential to c-ccut within tine project alts• red dicamancacck rattlesnake. Red cSramondtacck ratf'ie5na€e is not covered under the CVMSHCP- LIB ai nrncha ?Ova
72-2
Goth
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1950
RTC -121
Responses to Comments
Birds
Rltz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
One non-I;sted special -status species, burrowing own, has o low potentiaal to occu wiIh i the fatter portions of the proposed Sky Mesa Recreations Area site, This species is covered by the CVMSHCP, therefore. the project world irinplemenl MA .3O-1, which would ensure consistency with the CVMSHCP„ by Inct riling payment of the CVMSHCP development mitigcstiorr tee, Additi€nally, MM - BUM would be Implemented and would requke adherence to the Land Use Adjacency Guidelines to ensue there WO uld be no significant impacts to this special -status wildlife species. This: species a also protected under the Migratory Sid Treaty Act and CciJornia fish and Game Code Section 33!6, which protect nesting bids. Additionally. project consliuctljn Could i25L!II err direct and Indirect impacts to nesting birds including the loss of nests, eggs, and fledglings if ground - disturbing actiivtties occur during the nesting season {generally February 15 through August 31j - Construction activities during this time may result in reduced reproductkve success and may violate the federal Migratory Aka Treaty Act and Cali€amts Frsh and Game Code_ It construction {including any ground -disturbing activities} occurs during the nesting season. a nesting bird survey must be conducted by a qualified biologist valor to gadding activities and impacts to nests must be avoided. As such. implementation of W .IAO.3, which requires a pre construction nestIng bird survey, and MM-RIO-4,'which aeaLires a pre -coral -ruction survey Icsr burrowing owls would be reauaed to reduce potential impacts td less than sigrtifccht.
R.phIs
One special -status reptile has a moderate potential to occur wittdn the Sky Aulesa Recreedion Area of the project s'rfhc red diamondback reellesnake, Ns species is not covered by the CVM5H+ .. god impacts could be potenlf lhy significant, Due to the amount of adjacent and nearby habitat„ lass at fragmented hribilai is considered less than rig ificc+rt. However, cited impact cOvid occur Through crusting of irrdviduals during grading. entombment ot burrowing species, and removal of habitat.
Most reptile species exhibit a "flight" response to disturbance, resulting In temporary cis placement. or if disturbance is constant, permanent displacement, The project contains suitable habitat fi.e., desertscrub and rocky conditions} that may be rrnoactea m n result sxf project implementation• however, suilabie habitat will be avaiable adjacent to the affected region. arid individuate would be expected lc move away from construction activities, Entombment of nclvidugls wound be avoided through kr rplernentalian of MIA -B10-5, which would include covering open trenches. VXth mpleirr►enlation of MIIA-EO-5, direct mpacts la the few Indi4ldvols that may be harmed by construction gcttvities wo ctd be tees than significant.
Potential indirect impacts to reef diamondback rattlesnake would be Writhed to ahor!•term Impacts from construction activities and could result horn fugitive dust that can degrade habitat and result health indications for wildlife species: noise and vibration that can stress wifdlrfe species of cause there to leave an area of otherwise sthtahte habitat increased human presence. which can also disrupt daily activiiies of wildlife and cause them to leaves an area and release of chemical pollutants, such ea from oil leaks trorn construction voile:lei and machinery. Therefore, indirect impacts to red diamondback rattleinak.e could be significant, However although red diamondnack rattlesnake is not covered under the CVMSHCP the project would be required to implement MM -B60-2 which Includes construction best management practices and compliance:
therefore. with knplernentatian of 11M1-810!-2, impacts would be less than significant.
CIry ai Rrnchc Mine
89 T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1951
RTC -122
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
Eh 2024
One federally ar3d slate -listed threatened species, desert tortoise, has additional requirements under the CVMSthICP. This species is covered by five CVMSHCP: however, according lts the i,iSWPS CVM.SHGP amended permit j11.IC4ddl-'I?, permit term and condition no. 45 stales for projects located outside of the proposed conservation areas within fhe 50,272 acres ,ot noturr y occurring desert tortoise habitat anticipated to be impacted, the Permiltee shall either i II notify the USFVYS •t5 days prior to the Issuance of a grading reirn'rf to *Now for the potentaaisalvage of adult tortoises within this notification time period or IZ corndltfon such projects to conduct desert tortoise clearance surveys per the USRNS's prot000l, The project site overlaps mortared desert tortoise Habitat; however. since it was determined to not support suitable habitat for desert tortoise as do:cussed n Appendix R, II is recM1nimendad that the Permlltee notify the USFV,S 45 days prior to Issuance of a grading permit. Therefore, with Implementation of Relrit•B4O.1, 1Wd-IlO•$ and 11Mri-Bib 8, which requires actl-,tsree&e to the LJSFINS VMSHCP amended permit term and co+ndtion no. 45, potential Impacts to desert tortoise would be reduced lo less than signIF,cant, Mammals
one lederothy and slate -tided species has a moderate potential to occur wirhan the project area: Peninsular bighorn sheep: however. this species is covered under the CVMSHCP.
However, with implementation of MM•BIO.1 and MMM810-2, impacts would be reduced to a less than significant level,
As such, impacts to candidate. sensitive. or special status species would be less than signlhcanl wiltr milipalion in c orporaled,
bj less-Hton•Sigttirfconl impact wiflt Atffigafion lncorpoisrsied. The Residences Area of the project site k vacant and heavily graded there are no riparian habitat or other sensitive natural communities identified in local or regional plans, The Sky Mesa Recreation Area portion of the pr'pled sure does not contain any rlpaflan habitat as other sensitive natural community identified by CDFs+Q or USFNS. However, the Sky Mesa Recreation Area portion of the project site includes Sonoran creosol* bush scrub, which it a naturally occurring community covered under the CVMSHCP_ To comply with the CVMSHCP. development fees will be required to mitigate habitat loss_ Thorelare, MM-BiO.1 and MM.91O.2 wound be implemented to ensure that there would be no significant impacts to special -status vegetalion communities, therefore: impacts would be less than sIgnIlltant with i liyalfon inr:orparnled. al Ne impact The Residences Area portion of the project site hasbeen mats graded and contains no watercourses or natural drainage features, Additionally. the sky Mesa Reereatian Area portion of the project site dour not contain any iJ ifdlctional waters, therefore, r►a impacts =Me Iated with federally protected wattands would occur_ d� lets-than-SigniWcturf lmptrcr With MMMitffoffon tncarpansfed. Accdiding'ha the Clly's Gen erat Plan - Conservation an.d Open Sped; element, the City offers limited opportunities for the preservation of midi re criogrrllan corridors due to fhe prrhern of Sonia Rata Mountains and the W'hitewater River ICity of Rancho Mirage 2g17j, the project site does not function as a wildlife corridor and does not support any v✓idlife nursery sites. Therefore. no Impacts associated with wildile corridors would occur.
CIty yr Rrncku Mine 90
T2-2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1952
RTC -123
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carl'ten Rancho Mirage
initial Studye Mitigated Negative D claratiee
July 2024
Additionally, the project would comply with the federal MIgratoey 8rrd Treaty Act with implernentoiion miii4laflan measure Mlii4-fIIO.3 +w tick requires pre -construction nesting bird s.uiv •vs Ur d would reduce poterrlially significant Impacts. Therefore, Impacts would be leen than gip riiFca eft vrlltt rnifigation incorporated,
eJ tiers-rainier-Slgrskicannd impact wfth r OItiutlon kttorpnrdiledd. The City of Rancho Mirage General Plan cantors several elements that were exicabEshed to address potential impacts to biological resources. Specifically:, the Conservation and Open Space Bement establishes biological reseeeces goals, policiesand programs that address potential impacts to candidate, sensitive, or special -status species and their habitats, The City Is a Permlttee of the CVMSHCP; therefore, compliance with the CVMSIiCP provides PerrnIttees with take aulhssrizallen for covered species for all covered activities, which inckdes development orrlsi,de of CVMSHCP conservation areas. Therefore, the project is a covered activity, and compliance with the CVMSHCP would provide take authorization for covered species. Therefore, with implementation of MM-BIt3-1 through lintel-IJIQ-6. the project would not conflict with the City, of Rancho eel Doge G4nerel Phan
in addition, ce Gen -era', Plan Toning Mop ,Amendment from tvlauntoin Reserve MP) to Resort Hotel IRs-HJ a concurrently proposed for the proposed Sky Mesa Recrealian Area. Under exciting conditions, the proposed Sky Mesa prated would confect with the underlying land use designgrIons, However_ ors part of hhe proposed project, the applicant is proposing an amendment to the City's General Plan that would expand the Resod Hotel {Rs -H) designation and raving of the existing Rstk Carlton to encompass the Sky Mesa site. As noted. the MR one was adopted for the purposed o! avoiding re mitigating poesb+le Impacts,art sensitive bloiogiersl resources and with impiernentarlen and adherehce or the above ,mitigation measures, the project would not conflict with the Clty of Rancho Mirage Genet a9 Plan- !het afore. impacts would tie leas than significant with mitigation incorporated_ fJ Loss-Ihon•Sfgn1Rcanl Impact with MAigofton Incorporated. The City of Rancho Mirage Is a participant of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Men jCVMSHCP) (CVMSHCP n:d.a.,). The CVMSHCP aims to conserve over 240.O00 acres of open space and protect 27 plant and animal species, and the City of Rancho Mirage represents approximately 5,76{1 acres at the area covered by the plan {CVMSHCP red, a.: City of Rancho Mirage 2017j, As staled In Appendix R. the project sale is withIn the CVMSHCP area_ The project site Is not located within any CVMSHCP conservation areas: however, it is adjacent to the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Area. A fee k required for all pioje-cI's located within the CVMSHCP plan area. Much. the proposed project would adhere toMM.6IC3-t and would pay applicable lees as descobed in Threshold.efei- Therefore. impacts to the CVMSHCP are expecfec h Iess than significant with htlitigoton incorporated.
4.3 Mitigation Measures
PAM -NO -1 Coachein Volley 1Jli,rlligle Spetles Habitat cOnrerkation Mein Fee Poymenl. .4s fl signatory to the Coachella Valley Muliipte Species Habitat Conservation Pion, the City of Rancho Mirage shall teepee a local development mitigation fee prior to the issuance of building permits for the proposed use on the project site at the rates applicable al the tires or poyrreent of the lee as set forth in the ,most recent fee schedule. The project CIt ai Kendra?Ova
31 T2-2
Goth
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1953
RTC -124
Responses to Comments
RItz,Cariten Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
PAPA -1110-2
applicant shall ba required 10 provide documentation to lha City of Rancho Mirage confirming the payment of the local development miffs al on fee.
Coachella Valley Magiple Specters Habitat Cnosaivailon Plan kund Use Adjacency Guidelines- The project applicant shall implement the following Land Use Adjacency Dulctalanes JCerachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation P1rin jCVIVISHCP], Se. jinn a,5J to minimize and avoid indirect effects from development adjacent to conservation wreck [i.e.. Santa Rasa and San Jacinto Mountains Conservation Areal, where applicable:
• Drainage: Proposed Deveiopmenl adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate pions to ensure that the quantity and quality of runoff discharged to the adjacent Conservation Area k not altered in an adverse way when compared with existing conditions. Stormwater systems shall be designed to prevent the release of toxins, chemicals, petroleum products. exotic plant materials. or other elements final miphl degrade oe harm di al ogic alresources or ecosysi em processes within the adjacent Conservation Area..
• Texics, Lind uses proposed adjacent to or vwitt* a Conservation Area that use ctaernicals or generate bioproducts such as manure Char are potentially toxic or may adversely affect w>idlife and plant species. habitat, or water quaIty shal incorporate measures la ensure their application of such chemlaals does not result In any discharge to the adjacent Conservation Area.
• Lighting; For proposed development adjacent to or within a Conservation Area. lighting shall be shielded and directed toward the developed area. Landscape Shielding OF rather appropriate methods shall tae incorporated In project designs to trlirlmize the affects Of lighting adjacent to ar within the adjacent Canter vation Area In accordance with the g irdrrllnatta be isctudeel in tha Implementation Manuai,j r r of RSir]at14 t•'i :. r . �f trerraraonant shrill r3valid or limit the us at �artiriclal liahtinaat night uv ni r 'r:r_ I'c:urs of dawn and dusk when many wildlitE species ore most sense and ens =.e use cl LED liohtinQ ,with a correlated color temper°lure of 3,000 Kelvins or ens
• Noise: Proposed development adjacent 1a or within a Conservation Area that generates noise in excess of 75 A -weighted dec els sound equtwalenl level hourly shall incorporate setbacks, berms, or walls. as appropriate• to mieimeze the affects CI noise on the adjacent Conservation Area in accordance with the guidelines to be included in the Implementation Manual.
• InvatIves: Invasive.. Wars -native plant species shall not be incorporated in the landscape for land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Aran. landscape treatmenIs...Whin or adjacent to a Carserva-lion Area shall incaipoaate native plant materials fa 1he maximum extent feasible; Fez ammended nalive species are listed in Table 4-112 jCVMSHCP Section 4.5,5] The Wants listed In Table 4-113 shall not be used within or cdiacent to c Conservation Area, Ibis list may be amended from time to time through a Minor Amendment with Matte Agency CarseuTrenee.
LIB '? Rrnchc ?Ova
92 T2-2
Cant
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1954
RTC -125
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlten Rancho ]'Braga
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
• Banters: Land uses adjacent to or within a Conservation Area shall incorporate barriers in individua! project designs to minimize enoutho+ized public access), domestic animal predation, Illegast trespass or dumping in a Ccrnseivation Area.
Such barriers may Include native landscaping, racks/boulders, fencing, walls and"' ar signage. turatinsa fencir,p separating the Bin Horn Peserae land s.e„ adicscenf Conservation Area] from the procrased Prapecl site was previously irslolled to preyenl errinsulcr biahorn sheen from enterina and oraana on the Ritz Carlton Iiote property Pr•oiectl the oroiec sna meinttin a fence, or funciionaiv eauivn en structure fhrouahout the lifetme of the Dialect Therefore. necessary barriers f.e_. fen c!na ct trendy in place_
• Grading/land Development: Manufactured slopes associated with site development shall nor extend into adiacent fond in a Conservation Area.
MM -NO -3 Nesting Binh, io maintain compliance with the Migratory Bird Treaty Act and Cdlfamia Fish and Lome Code, reaarctess of lie •ime of year If ground -disturbing and/or vegetation clearance activities are scheduled to occur during the avian riesling season f-ypica y Febsucty 15 1nrougn August 31 J. a quarifi&I biologist Shall conduct a pie -construction nesting bird survey wlthln the project impact footprint and a 500.foot buffer where legal access Is -granted nted around the disturbance footprint, Surveys shall be concluded within 3 days prior to initiation 0 ground -disturbing activities.
MM -310-4
If an active nest h detected during the netting bird survey; avoidance buffers shall be implemented as determined by a gsraif!ed biologist (typically 3(10 feet foe passerines and 500 feet tar raptors and specIQI-flatus species]. The buffer shall beat a distance to enstee avoidance of adverse effects fa the nesting bird by accounting for Iopagscrphy, ambient conditions. species, nest location, and activity type. All nests sh+al, sae monitoied as determined by the qualified biologist until nettling - have fledged and dispersed or it is confirmed that the nest nos been unsuccessful or abrandaned. The quolltied biologist shall halt all cansfructlon activities within proximity to an active nest if i1 is determined trial the activities are harassing the nest and may result in nest abandonment os take, The qualifier] biologist shall also have the authority la requlag implemental' on of avoidance rraeas.'rer related to noise, v3aralibn. Pr light pollution !f Indirect impacts are retailig in halassrnent of the nest.
Burrowing Owl, Pre -construction survsrys for burtowrlg 0%4A -toll be completed withn areal OI sellable habitant Il,e-, Maher porfians or it rate) In accorcionce Witt the Slid!! Report an Jlurrawirlg row) MAfgaftan {CIDFC, 3Q1Z. asrifh tae Hrst survey no less than 14 days prior to Siltation of project -related activities, and the second Mh in 24 hods of project -slatted activities. ItenbuiroYviira® ow s of active burrowing owl burrowlf%tatdetected,i susaifecl i'^io .0a vt -oat r.nordinate with CDFW and nrenarra a 1Ss:rraw nra Owl Pan tha- small be submitted to CDFW and USFWS for review and approval prior to •cormnencinsy Protect activities. The Burrawinsp Owl Plan shall describe proposed avoidance, minirnization, rnitigat€on. and rrmanitarinta acf!ons, The Burrowing ow Plan molt induce the number and socallan of Occupied burrow sites, acres of burrowing .OVOI habifal Thai will ne imparted, delaIs of Isle monitoring, and retests gn proposed butlers anp other avoidance measures iavoidance is arasatea. if impacts fa sacauaied burrowing awl LIB ai Rrncha ?Ova
93 T2=2
Cont
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1955
RTC -126
Responses to Comments
RIteiCarlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study' Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
twnhii at re hi irmw cannot be nun red the ftrerrnw no Owl Plan shra a so describe minirttlzatlon and relocation actions that will be implemented. Proposed implementation of burrow eeclusion and closure should only be considered as a last resort after at other apflens have been evaluated as exclusion is not n ihelt an avoidance. minis -titration, or rrriflaatien method and has the reasssbcity Fa result to ioke_ It impacts la occuoiiec bunows cannot be avoided: inl•orrnahen shat be .121(p/iced leaardiraa adiacent or nearby surtab a habitat avai able to owls a ona with pro pose relocation actions, Tie role -c• proponent shat implement the Burrowing Ow Pion fottowina DFW anc USF S review (Inc OCOUOVO etiftkin 500 feet of the impactfootpt', Ret=ort an eutrawing revt Mt)achon g- de
n_s or agreed upon by the CalIforrro
will act- rti•i1 ,'n-+ ate. ,,. wee uaua` cu+-caateicle-t . nettrr teSeen. of until it can !AM- 1O-3 General iteesidences and Minimization (Measures. The 'allowing avoidance and minimization measures shall be implemented during project construction activities.
To prevent inadvertent entrapment of special-status>,vrldfafe during construction, all excavated steep-vapled hales ci trenches more than 2feel deep shall be coveiled with Mew's d or similar materials chi the close of each working day, or be prodded with one of more escape ramps constructed of earth fit or wooden planks, &efore such holes or trenches are filed, they shall be thoroughly inspected for trapped wIIdlIP , II trapped animals ars observed, escape ramps or structures shall be Installed rnmediately to allow escape_
MM -M0-& Desert Tartatee. Because the protect is located outside *I a Conservation Area but within the 50,2?2 auras of naturally occurring desert tortoise habitat anticipated to be Impacted under the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan, the ciajecl applicant snail notify the WS. Fish and Wildfire Service 45 days prior to the lssuanee of o grading permit to allow for the potential salvage of adult tortoises within this notification time period.
City ai Rrncha Keno 94
T2-2
Coat
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1956
RTC -127
Responses to Comments
5. CULTURAL RESOURCES
RItz.Carltran Rancho Miraet-
Initial Study,t Mitigated Negative Dedaration
tiny 2024
CULTURAL RESOURCES — Would
the project
Potentially
Significant
Ineeact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Ir,torearation
Less Than
Significant
Impact
No Ini act
a) Cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of a
historical resource pursuant to
§1 5064.5?
bf Cause a substantial adverse
change in the significance of an •
archaeological resource
pursuant to §15O64.57
®
■
c) Disturb any human remains,
including those interred outside
of dedicated cemete-iex7
CI
•
ei
■
5.1 Setting
The Residences at Ritz Carlton ortion of the project site was previously inckrded in a cultural resources survey completed by CRM TECh4 In 2006, The 2006 study canslsfed of a historicalicec.haeolagIcal resources records search, historical background research. Na1ave American consultation, and a systematic field survey. The records search determined Ihat a segment of a prehistoiic trai has been recorded in 1979 as extending into the 39-ticre Gres covered In the 2706 study, howevel o field survey revealed that the segment of the original trail was no longer extant, The study concluded that there were no cultural rasouttes n the =eel surveyed, and no evidence of archneolbgieal deposits were found during the monitoring program,
Anti updated histoncallfarchoeological respvrC_s survey Wass prepared by CFM4, "ITCH omnSeptember aF 2019. The 201R shady includes a convey and analysis, on F>r}th the proposed Residences al Ritz Carlton and Sky Mesa PecTeaticnol Area. updates 1p the 2026 records search and th-- historical back ground research, further consultation v�rth restive American representatives, and a systematic field iurvey et Intensive ond reconnaissance levels as appropriate. This suction is based upon the 2019 Historicali erchaeological Resources Survey (cultural report} prepared by CRM TECH in September 2019.
The cultural report is included as Appendix C to thls Initial Study_ tttxckgraund and methodologies regarding the creel -eel Tesources anuresis are found In Appendix C, L2 Discussion of Impacts
ai tesa-Nirm-Bigot rc-arrf Impact CRM TECH historian Terri Jacceiernain, M.A.• conducted historical be ci ground research for the project site. Ketone maps indicated that there were no man-made features present in or near the aretect site. The eares a man-made features known 10 be present within the proposed project boundaries were a leveled pad on hlltop in the eastern portion of the propcsed project °red and part of a writing dirt toad leading rc If, bath 61 vsblch were !Gs! CIty vt Broths Mine
95 72-2
Coat
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1957
RTC -128
Responses to Comments
Rltz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
noted in 1472.
The western rrortion of the projecr site received limited disturbance until 2036-2G 7. when the grnurrd surface In the entire area was cleared and graded_ As result, all pi existing textures in that portion of the project site, including a segment of dirt road, where obliterated. To date, however, the properly hors remained undeveloped and was used csnly for materials stockpiling, construction staging: and occasional parking. In the eastern portion. the dirt rood and the leveled pad observed in 1472 have been the only notable man-made features known to exist.
CRM TECH archaeologist Nina Galiardo, lee„ conducted a records search update on June of 20119 at the Eastern Information Center (ETC). University of California - Riverside, No historic re spucs? sw'ere found within the project site. The sec was search 'ewes indicate -diktat b9 historic - period sites have been recorded within a I -mile radius of the project site. However, the proposed project is nut anticipated to impact these resources because oaf their dislance bassi the site
CRM TECH arclsaeclogisf Daniel hallester, M_5-. conducted a field survey an June and September of 2414. The field survey encountered no potential "historical resources' 'within or adjacent to the proposed project bourde rtes.
No historical resources exist within or cl.d@ar:ere to the proposed project ores proposed project wall nor cruse a s;ibalantioi v0 Ise Chong* to arty known hestc:i _ and impacts'wauld be less bran signitrcatrl
tom) ten. lisun-3lttrtecantimpact with MliFgs,Jian mod q oratedr CRM 1'ECH archaeologist Nara Galiardo, B -A, conducted a record=- search update an June cf 2019 al the Eastern Inloirnallon Center {EC1, University o Caifornfa -Riverside The results inchcoted that no furtive stucEes have occurred In the current proposed protect area since 2teee and no cultural resources have been identified on the property. A total of 38 cultural resources studies were found within a I •rrie radius of the project site.
CRM TECH archaeologist Daniel 6atlester. M.S., conducted c field survey of the western ond eastern portions of the proposed project area, In the western portion of the site. grading actiri1les leveled the majority Or the land and removed bedrock ciutcraps. In the eastern portion. the slopes beyond the leveled hilltops retain the area's native landscape with same bedrock: boulders. The badly exfoliating boulders suggest that it would be poor material for use oil milling surfaces by the Native people or for preservation or any evidence of such use Cap June 21 and September d, *019, COO TECH archaeologist Daniel Ecrllestar, M.5.. carried out the field survey Sri the western and eastern poriiens or the prep* std project urea, respectively.. In Tight of the extensive past sgroundd disturbance, the western portion moots suveyed at a reconndissarrce level by walling o testes 4f pordlel nS,ith-south liansecfs at 25 -ratter jcsppreiJrnately 75 -foot} iralervols. The Ten disturbed erasteirspartlort including the area not covered by the 2J0d-2b47 studies:
was surveyed at an Intensive level by walking along parallel north -south tiansects at rive-rnefet jappaoHirnalery l54tcotl intervals in the rerlaativety lebef areas and along the contours on the slopes.
Using ther=e methods, the graurd surface at the anrlre proposed project area way systematically and carefully examined for any evidence of hsrrncn activities dating to the p-rehhforic or historic period lie., 54 years or elder). Ground visibility was excellent j9C45= I NMI LIB yr Rrnchc Mi va
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1958
RTC -129
Responses to Comments
Rita.Carltnn Ramcbc Mirage
Initial Study,+ Mitigated Negative Declaration
lirly 2024
due to the lack of arry substantlol vegetation growth in either portion of the proposed project lea IAppendix Cj, In addition, bedrock outcrops on the slopes in the eastern portion of the property were closely Inspected For any evidence of prehistoric milling features.
The field survey encountered no potential orchaeolegical resources within orgdjocentta the proposed project boundbrles. In the western portion, part grading al the ground surfane has leveled most of fhe land and removed bedrock outcrops, resulting in a sizable rock pie near the center of the propertyto the eastern portion, the slopes heyatKl the leveled hilltop and the dot access road retain mare of the area's native landscape, with some bedeck boulders exposed naturally on the surface. The bcdIy exfoliating boulders. however. presents a poor materiel far use as miring surfaces by the reative people or for preservation or any evidence el such use.
Although rice archaeological resources were Identified as a result al the literature review and field survey, there is a possibility of encountering previously undiscovered archaeological recourses et sub levels during grcund-sfisterbing activities erssaciafed with the proposed project implementation of MM•CUL.1 would ensure that potential impacts to archaeologicol resources during construction activities to a less than significant level. Therefore. the propvsed project would not result in o substantial adverse change in the significance of an wahoecslc*gicel resource and impacts would be less than aigniicent, cl .0 -than -Slab fcan! Impact with MiNpalfon incorporated. As stated previously, mere are no previously recorded cutural resources on the project site. Given the fact that the site has been preciously developed. ground -disturbing ectivities associated. with construction al the proposed project are unlikeN to uncover previously unknown archaeological resources. In the unlikely avenr hurricin remains are ,discovered on -site during construction ground -disturbing molt hies, implementation of MM-CUt-2 would set forth proper procedure. Therefore, impacts would be less elan ilgniI1 anL
5.3 Mitigation Meusuros
Pr M-CUt-1 Lrlar 1,e the issuance of a aractino nnin of €around disturbirie activities, the Arapricge
er inl
99yrcg.s koir@P ≤nt area Repatt erifen
Aerear r1t with As7ua Cinteree Band of Cal"ivia Indrons ACBCI). The ourl]oto tit the egreerrent shalt be to fermaljze prQfgcolr and prccedurer oetweers the Appficanh/Ovener acrid the 'nitre for protection, 1reatmAnt, end repatriation of Native AmeriA an hurrman aeman .r tun r ry obis its. Cull seri gild /or reliaio i ceremonial i erns and olsr trIbiaLCulteretreSeurees, A Qualified Arctaenlaglst, meeting the Secretary el the krtetices Prutesswtal Quafiliicrcation Standards and ore ACBCP Native American monitor shall be p-reseni for initial ground -disturbing acllvitiea associated with the current proposed project fiat rarer occur n areas of native soil. Both the Qua fee, Arc+taeolotaist arid ACBCI Native American monitors may temporally hall or divert ground disturbinn root vi ies if oorential archaeo oaical or Tribe Culture resources are discovered durires construction activities. IEop pround-dislurbinst activities In order ins assess env discoveries in the field.: ettiee -.e � 6Tunnntioipatcd dr_sever-es era made.
Tie monitors may t cp yrounW d Slurbing activities in order to ae8ss any dscoveres is tic tic 're
City of Rancho strap
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1959
RTC -130
Responses to Comments
Summary of Comments on Agua Caliente Comment Letter
MND Markup.pdf
Page: 97
Fl rnk+ar.1 Auther.xm dngal 3U+11jethHighlight uate 817912,0244;47748PM Keep
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1960
RTC -131
Responses to Comments
Ritrrcarlton Rtnctio Mirage
Inikial Sdudy+ Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
El 1118 event that archaeological resources (sites, fenturrs. or artifacts) are exposed dieting construction octivftfes tar the proposed project, all construcfion Week occurring within 50 feet of the find shall immediately stop until a Qualified Archaeologist c+nn evaluate the significances of the find and determine whether additional study is warranted, Depending pn the significance of the tired under the California Environmental Qualify Act [CEQA) and the CEQA Guidelines (California Public keen urcesCode, Section 2)052I4CCP I50d4.5(tlI,hie Qualified Archaeologist may exteraurt the data potential of the find throwph the process -eat -geld level recordation and then allow work 14 continue. []plates are dead,/ nonedigrrifiecxrri arehaeolosticai !resources fas determined by the CQuaitied arahae-oloaist in consultation with the ',dative American monitor will be minima ly documented In the telc.E the discovery graves significant ender CEC.tA :Nora ;uch c preparaiian 01 an orcha oiocaccil rrea1inent plan tasting da'o Isc vet° rr°cr, be'vvorrarikid, ttue e vent that Curraigan of arc..heeectafco resources is re.avired by Ih .repetsedine resxulr tdry daence. citation shoal be conducted ba' an (-reproved local facility In Reertiee County, ant r r}iaipin iholl ba guided bw CaGfarnla Stogie l rt.�2iiS' Rest Brigs cornmission's Guidelines for 18' .Ci,rtl'L0Pi QArchneetoncrel Collect One.
The ',s;Ppr',car Owner slat be response e icy a curt:fion cpits scootprovide the City written documentcalian from the serration tacitly that the curalicin nave been completed.
El Native AmericanTrbai Caultural resources (i.e„ prehistoric or eihnohlttorfc-period ortRcets. toad rermrains, or features associated with krative Americans) are exposed d ewing proposed ©rojecf-rebated ground disturbance, the actions identified by the Aqua Caliente Eland nt Cahuillo in leans n a preexisting awe emenitar uncanticeaiern discovery shall be followec centoc eo. []GIs aciresmenf matt rieteitessoup ct,all br.
Native American ManNprla return to site
cdreutfanf—to mongol ground -disturbing work in the area containi g the Native Anielcan cultural reseirces. This monitoring would icc ur on an ©r -needed basis and would. be Intender] to ensure that Nertive American concerns are taken Into account dtArlttii9tl :COrad ctlan process.
MM-Clit- 2 If human remains are discovered during construction of the proposed project.
Cofrfomra Health and Satety Code.. Section 705€7.5, states fhcf further disturbances and acfMties shall stop in any area or nearby oiea suspected to Overlie remains, and the County Coroner shall be contacted, No taarther excavation or disturbance of the site or terry nearby area teastariaba, suspected to overlie dad(ocrsnf remains gall actor until the County Corner has determined, within two werkexg drays of notification cif discovery, the appropriate treatment and deposition of the humanrernnant.
Pursuant to Califomi,u Public Peseurcei Code, SQCtion 5097-48, If the remaIns are thought to be Native A.merlcort the County Coroner will notify the Native American Heritage Commission, which will then notify the most likely descendent. At this time. fhe person who discovered the remains will contact than City of Rancho h€Irage ION) so that they may work with the most Rely descendent on the respectful treatment and disposition of the remaIns. Further provisions of the California Pubic Resources Code, Section 5097.%. are to be tc Iowed as applicable
Cityof Rancho toot.
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1961
RTC -132
Responses to Comments
Page: 98
tNumber 1 Author *moll rI I Sublect-Highlight Dater ail 0.+2Q24 a7s42PM Keep
El Number! 2 Author xmadrlraal Subject Highlight Dater $i1W20244r413'5PM Thissenterste is not necessary and does not make sense -it should be removed, TBNumber.3 Author.xrnagfrfgal Su#rjectHIgIll Ight Ltate;S119/2021,IA 753PM Keep
'Number:4 Author:sonadrigal Subpecq-High'Igttt L`rater8+19J24244A7:.2g PM In what scenario would ruration be required by the superseding regulatory agency? And who ha that, the city?Thos section should he removed or changed. ht Istorics may be (welted bitTnlaal cultural Resources should be -given to rite Tribe. plumber.5 Autharxrnaddgai Subject Highlight Date.8 /19120244So-t6PM Keep.
Number..6 AutPon mina drfgal Subject Nig hl ight Date.8/I9i2d24 .52.11 PM — The rest of this should be deleted. This predicts what will be written In the preexlsltng agreement- which can not be known at this tine.
Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1962
RTC -133
Responses to Comments
6. R.IERGY
RItrCarlton Rancho Mira e
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
ENERGY -- Would the project;
Potentially
Significant
Impact
Less Than
Significant
with
Mitigation
Incorporation
Less Than
Significant
Irnoact
Na km 3act
a) Result in potentially significant
environmental impact due to
wasteful, inefficient, o
unnecassary consumption a
energy resources, curing project
construction or operation?
Li) Conflict with or obstruct a state
or local plan for renewable
energy or energy efficiency?
•
■
•
■
6.1 Silting
the sedfoon is based upon the AN Quality and Greenhouse Gds iechnicdl Rrspdrt prepared by Dudek IApp&ndlr .°ADoenc x A- J, Background Ina methodologies regarding the air quality analysis can be found in Appds+dtr-AAppendlx A-1- The short-term construction and long-term operation of the proposed project will require the consumption of energy resources in several torrns otihe site and within the proposed project area. An overview of the forms oI energy consumption lot conshuclion and operation is provided as follows;
Conslruciion Energy Consumpiion
1 • Temporary L rect l e-ctncaf Service: Energy Provided by Southern Cnlrfornici Edson {'SiCEI • Construction site lightInfa;
• Carrsuter equipment; and
• Temporary construction trailer operation
2. Fossil Fuels (Diesel rand Gosoinel
• ;)It -rood construction equipment
• Diesel-fire-deleclac generators
• Wool, ei v hicles, Vender ttucks, aria haul iruCks
Operational Energy Consumption
1, Direct elect cal Service; Enemy Provided by SCE
• building heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning IHVAC1 • Lighling: irsierior and exterior toclitif:s
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Ritz -Carlton Rancho Mirage MND 11942
November 2024
1963
RTC -134
Responses to Comments
RItrCarlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
• Swimming pool and water feature operation
• Computeraudio and vide° equipment: and
• Appiances
• Supply, distribution, and treatment of water. wastewater; and solid waste Fossa Fuels [Diesel, Gasoline, and Natural Gast
• Residential vehicles and hotel guests and visitors;
• Employees deliveryand customers; and
• Restaurant and venue employees, delivery, and customers • Emergency Generator Maintenance
6.2 Discussion of Impacts
aj less-than-Signfcant impact
Construction
Electricity
Fempvrasy electric power for os-necessary lightning one electronic equipment [such as computers inside temporary construction trailers) would be provided by SCE. The electricity used tar such activities would be Jemperrory and would be rut stantlalty less than that required for proposed project operation and would have a negligible contribution to he p rrrpased project's overall energy consumption
MINA -cif Cans
Natural gas Is not anticipated to be required during constructon of the proposed project.
Fuels used for construction would primarily consist of diesel and gasoline, which are discussed below under the "petroleum' subsection, Any minor amounts of natural gar that may be consumed as a result of proposed project construction would be substantially less than required for operation and would hove a negligible contribution to the proposed project's overall energy consumption.
Petroleum
Heavy-duty construction equipment associated wrlfi construction activities would rely on diesel fuel . as would vendor trucks Involved In delivery of materials to the project site.
Construction Workers would travel to and rrorn the psojecl site. Ihioughout the duration or construction. It u assumed In this analysis that construction workers would trowel in gasoline• powered light -duty vehicles,
heavy-duty construction equipment of varlou3 Tope$ would be used during each phase of proposed project construction, Appondlx-A,pt7endix A-1 liststhe assumed equipment CIty yr Rrnchc ?Ova
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November 2024
1964
RTC -135
Responses to Comments
RItz.Carlton Rancho Mirage
initial Study) Mitigated Negative Declaration
July 2024
usage for each phase of construction, The proposers prolett's construction equipment is estimated to operate a total combined 35,520 hours,
Fuel consumption horn construction equipment was estimated by conversing the total carbon dioxide "CO-) emissions from each construction phrase to g o1lons using the conversion factors for CO_, to gallons of gasoline or diesel.
The conversion lector for gasoline is $.73 kilograms per metric ton CO pea gallon. and the conversion facto' for diesel as 1{x21 kilograms per metric tore CO. per gallon ITile Climate Registry 2018). The estimated cheep fuel usage from construction equipment it shown in Table 6-I, Construction fakiiprnent Diesel Demand epft-R brad Equipment], Table 6.1. Construction Equipment Diesel Demand {Oft -Road Equipment} /haae
.. ..
rie-cos tat
Equipment
Equipment' CO2
th4Tj
frg/COai
talon Gallons
Grading
29,. i,f
a ;7I
::'^', 0: {, .5
Building
Construction
9 431, 43.
:].21
42,255 9-2
Paving
d
22.21 I0._'i
. -71 :J
Aril-stectuci
Coating / Finish
Phase
I
8.57 I r).::". 1
336,92
Total
74.346,41
Seuress.
Notes: CO = carbon dioxide; MT = metric 1r i; kg= kilogram Fuel consumption loam work et, vendor., and haul truck imps are estimated by converting the total CO. emissions from each construction phase to gallons using the conversion'factors for CO. ID gallons of gasoline or diesel- Worker vehicles me assumed to Ibis gasoline and vendor/hauling vehicles are assumed to be diesel, Calculations Farr total wvrk:el, vendor, and haul truck 1ue}lcantonal ion are provided In tables 6.2 Ieonstructlo-n :worker Gasoline Demand]. 6-3 (Construction Vendor Diesel Diet IMP , and 6-4 (Construction Ha.rlduci Diesel' Demand', Table -2 Construction Worker Gasoline Demand
Phase
Trips
Vartil1lCie
MTCOs
a gfco2J
Gasflran
Gallons
Grradin•rg
1.100
e•.I0
5,70
694.17
Building
Corstruciion
I8,.5. 0
I'O2.`?5
E 78
11.[x45.77
Roving
440
2.40 5.73
273.80
hrchitec[Ltd
Coating
4.89[1
"5.62
B.78
2,918,46
Total
15,531 31
Source: Appor.,dis-,r': o rxli A 1.
Notes; MT= metric tan_ CO:= carbon dioxide: kg = kilogram.
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