Environmental Group Sues Palm Desert Over Housing Project

A legal battle is unfolding in Palm Desert over a proposed housing development.

The Supporters Alliance for Environmental Responsibility (SAFER) nonprofit has filed a lawsuit against the city, challenging a 546-home project called Catavina.

The development is planned near the Palm Desert Greens Golf Course, at the intersection of Frank Sinatra Drive and Portola Avenue. It used to be the Santa Rosa Country Club before its closure over one decade ago.

The group claims the project failed to properly evaluate potential impacts on wildlife and air quality, arguing it does not fully comply with California Environmental Quality Act requirements.

City leaders previously approved the development last year, but the lawsuit is now seeking to halt construction, led by Blue Fern Development, until a more thorough environmental review is completed.

This is not the first time the organization has taken legal action in the Coachella Valley, having filed similar lawsuits over developments in Palm Springs and Desert Hot Springs.

The case could have broader implications for future development projects across the region as it moves forward.