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Coachella Valleys Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan Local Development Mitigation Plan
This week we are starting with a proposal from the Coachella Valley Conservation Commission. Previously we shared that we had been contacted by staff regarding the draft fee study being ready for our review. For years we have asked to be part of the draft process with an opportunity to advise regarding its legitimacy pursuant to the Mitigation Fee Act.
The Desert Valleys Builders Association (DVBA) has been a longstanding supporter of the Coachella Valley Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (CVMSHCP) and the Local Development Mitigation Fee Nexus Study. However, the current proposed update raises significant concerns, particularly regarding compliance with the Mitigation Fee Act.
Firstly, it introduces a new requirement to purchase Fluvial Fan acreage without clear justification, questioning its developability and whether existing regulations impede development in these areas.
Secondly, the appraised land values in the study do not reflect actual market conditions, as they neglect a comprehensive historical analysis of sales.
Lastly, the annual habitat conservation targets are unduly constrained by the willingness of property owners to sell, and the success of the plan should not be judged based on limited availability.
The DVBA asserts that the update lacks the necessary connections required by the Mitigation Fee Act and related federal case law. Consequently, it cannot support the proposed update unless these fundamental issues are addressed.
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