Local & Community
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.
By: NBC Palm Springs
April 7, 2026
Latest Instagram Posts
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry
What do you think is really going on here? Drop your thoughts below 👇 #therogginreport #coachella #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings
During the 2025-2026 school year, PEN America reported there were nearly 12,000 book bans in public schools nationwide, the largest number of book bans in a single year since the group started tracking numbers in 2021.
Delta Airlines overhauled its frequent flyer program in 2024. CNN’s Randi Kaye asks Delta CEO Ed Bastian if the airline has made it more difficult for flyers to earn status and if any further changes to the loyalty program are on the horizon.
Social Time with Thalia & Jerry. Favorite Festival?
‘The Hayden’ is back @babysmarche !! John Hayden himself took a trip to the Indian Wells staple for lunch and to chat with @chefjustinsnyder on how it became the most popular item on the menu! #TheHayden
🛑A bike ride ended in tragedy Monday night in Palm Springs. A bicyclist died after being struck by a car around 8:30 PM on E. Palm Canyon Dr. The driver stayed at the scene and police say there’s no indication of foul play or impairment. ❓Saw the crash or have video from the area? Call Palm Springs police at (760) 327–1441.
Social Time: Jerry sings the end! 🎶🎵
CALIFORNIA IS AGING FAST... BUT WHERE WILL THE WORKFORCE LIVE? #therogginreport #coachellavalley #localnews #agingpopulation #nbcpalmsprings
119 jobs on the line and DRD’s General Manager won’t answer questions … Drop a comment 👇: Would you vote YES or NO on giving a district more money if they refuse to answer transparency questions? #therogginreport #drd #coachellavalley #localnews #nbcpalmsprings