HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrelim - CC - 04-11-201914
PRELIMINARY MINUTES D R A F T
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, APRIL 11, 2019
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260
I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M.
Mayor Weber convened the meeting at 3:00 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Jan C. Harnik
Councilman Sabby Jonathan
Councilmember Kathleen Kelly
Mayor Pro Tern Gina Nestande arrived at 3:03 p.m.
Mayor Susan Marie Weber
Also Present:
Lauri Aylaian, City Manager
Robert W. Hargreaves, City Attorney
Racheiie D. Klassen, City Clerk
Lori Carney, Director of Administrative Services
Russell Grance, Director of Building & Safety
Ryan Stendell, Director of Community Development
Martin Alvarez, Director of Economic Development
Janet M. Moore, Director of Finance/City Treasurer
Tom Garcia, Director of Public Works
Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager
Ty Davis, Division Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire Dept./Cal Fire
Bryan White, Battalion Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire Dept./Cal Fire
Matt Martello, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Department
M. Gloria Sanchez, Management Specialist II
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
None
PRELIMINARY MINUTES D R A F T
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 11, 2019
IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Reauest for Closed Session:
A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: Lease Property - Parkview Professional Office Complex -
73710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite No. 116, Palm Desert
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Anthony Hernandez/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Other Parties: Lift To Rise
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
B. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
Number of potential cases: 2
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Weber adjourned the meeting to Closed
Session at 3:01 p.m. She reconvened the meeting at 4:00 p.m.
V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION.
Mr. Hargreaves stated there was no reportable action from the Closed
Session just ended.
VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Palm Desert Charter Middle School ASB
Members Cameron Keller & Hailey Hays
VII. INVOCATION/INSPIRATION - Councilmember Kathleen Kelly
VIII. AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS
A. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING THE MONTH OF
APRIL 2019 AS "DMV / DONATE LIFE CALIFORNIA MONTH" IN THE
CITY OF PALM DESERT.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Weber presented the framed
proclamation to One Legacy Ambassador, and herself a living donor,
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APRIL 11, 2019
Cheryl Machan, who was joined by one of the Palm Desert DMV Office
Managers.
MS. MACHAN thanked the Mayor and City Council for recognition of this
very important nationwide outreach in the month of April. She went on to say
that in the past month the first Honor Walk occurred for an organ -tissue
donor at Desert Regional Medical Center, Palm Springs, and was a very
touching ceremony. She added that donor ended up saving five people with
his organs alone and encouraged everyone to be a donor and save lives.
They added that the DMV works hand -in -hand with One Legacy and is truly
a partner in this program, helping educate the public about the importance
of organ donation by checking the box on their California Drivers License or
Identification Card. It was noted that this election can also be made through
the online DMV portal.
IX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
MR. DALLAS WILLIAMS, on behalf of the Family YMCA of the Desert and the
approximately 800 kids who participate, announced the YMCA's annual Easter Egg
Hunt being held in Civic Center Park next Saturday, April 20, at 10:00 a.m. for
Palm Desert kids. Around 10,000 eggs are hidden for five different hunts conducted
over a two-hour period, all free, with healthy activities and more games offered
afterward. He then provided a video from 2018, adding that the Silver Foundation
is a $5,000 sponsor for the event.
Councilman Jonathan thanked Mr. Williams and the YMCA staff for doing an
excellent job with the event, particularly for leaving Civic Center Park in great
condition afterward, since he never sees any leftover eggs when he runs there the
next day.
X. MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER REPORTS & REMARKS TO THE COMMUNITY
A. Councilmember Jan C. Harnik, Committee Reports and General Comments.
1. Yom HaShoah - announced that the annual Holocaust Remembrance
Day will be held this coming Sunday, with a ceremony scheduled for
The Galen Auditorium at Eisenhower Medical Center from 3:00 p.m. -
5:00 p.m. She added that it was a meaningful event.
B. Councilman Sabbv Jonathan Committee Reports and General Comments.
None
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C. Councilmember Kathleen KellyCommittee Reports and General Comments.
1. SunLine Transit Aaencv - Earth Dav 2019 - noted that SunLine had
long been an international leader in zero emissions technology. On
Earth Day, Monday, April 22, from 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., there will
be a public event at headquarters in Thousand Palms for introducing
a newly -being -constructed hydrogen fueling station and advanced
electrolizer, truly capturing the cutting -edge technology for these fuels.
There will be community tours, including SunLine's Learning Center
that is attracting participation from around the world.
D Mavor Pro Tern Gina Nestande,Committee Reports and General Comments.
None
E. Mavor Susan Marie Weber Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of
March 17-28, 2019.
With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries Report was received and
filed.
F. City Council Reauests for Action.
1. Cannabis Smoking — Councilman Jonathan said he recently received
a letter of concern from a resident with five young children (10-14
years), with a neighbor, apparently legally, smoking cannabis
outdoors. The neighbor smokes pot day and night, drifting into the
backyard, the house, and children's bedrooms, with no way to escape
it, with the resident also was carefully pointing out that the neighbor
is within his legal rights. However, he wanted to understand if there
was any help to be provided in this situation. Upon making an initial
inquiry to staff, he learned that there are cities with ordinance
restrictions such that if complaints of odor from cannabis are received,
users are restricted from engaging in it outdoors. He was unsure
whether or not it was worth asking staff to review Palm Desert's
ordinance to see if it calls for reconsideration of just that aspect,
noting that this was the first complaint he'd received. He sought
concurrence from his colleagues about whether or not additional
review was warranted at this time.
With City Council concurrence, staff was directed to look into the cannabis
regulations for a future agenda item with regard to the issue of odor being
considered a nuisance and if there are constructive ways for addressing it.
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G. City Council Consideration of Travel Reauests/Reports.
None
XI. STAFF REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. City Manager
DRAFT
APRIL 11, 2019
1. City Manaaer's Meetina_ Summaries Resort for the Period of
March 18-29, 2019.
With City Council concurrence, the City Manager's Meeting Summaries Report was
received and filed.
2. Aaenda Item Notes
Ms. Aylaian noted that when City Council gets to agenda Section XI I -
Consent Calendar, Item L, staff will request it be pulled for separate
consideration; and on Section XIV - Resolutions, Item A, staff wishes
to pull that item entirely from consideration at this meeting.
B. City Attorney
None
C. City Clerk
None
D. Public Safety
1. Fire Department
Chief Davis commented that the Fire Department has already seen
an increased number of medical emergencies on the Bump `N Grind
Trail in the City. Therefore, he provided awareness tips for residents
and visitors if they're planning to hike in the near future.
— The four -mile Bump `N Grind Trail is considered about a two-hour,
moderately challenging hike. Residents should be diligent, pace
themselves, and most importantly, start early in the day while
temperatures are cool, as quite a few heat -related illnesses, along
with some minor -to -moderate trauma -type injuries occurring already.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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APRIL 11, 2019
— Bring sufficient water along and some nutritional snacks.
— Use the buddy system and hike in a group, that way assistance or
communication can be provided if needed in an emergency.
— Let friends and family know where you are.
— The Fire Department is always here to help if you need them — call
9-1-1.
Chief Davis lastly called attention to a loss from the law enforcement
community on Saturday, April 6, when a California Highway Patrol
Officer was hit and killed due to a possible suspected drunk driver.
He urged everyone to keep the public safety community in its
thoughts and prayers while they're out there doing their jobs.
Responding to inquiry about the increased number of calls on the
Bump `N Grind Trail, he said the reasons vary. Usually, it's heat-
related/dehydration, which can then segue into people getting
confused about where they're at. However, a lot of systems and
processes are in place through the dispatch -command center to
pinpoint location with GPS tracking, allowing the Fire Department to
get there quickly, find, and treat the injured person. He added that
sometimes the person is unable to walk out, and there is access to
the helicopter hoist for these incidents; but most of the calls were
heat -related, along with some trauma -related.
2. Police Department
None
XII. CONSENT CALENDAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of March 28, 2019.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY- Warrant Dated
2/22/2019.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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C. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY/HOUSING TREASURIES -
Warrant Dated 3/22/2019 (Joint Consideration with the Palm Desert
Housing Authority - Item V below).
Rec: Approve as presented.
D. COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS & INVESTMENT REPORTS for the Months of
January 2019 and February 2019 (Joint Consideration with the
Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency - Item S
below).
Rec: Receive and file.
E. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE, by Bella Villaggio,
40235 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
F. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE, by Island Boba
Sushi Poke, 36901 Cook Street, Suite 6, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
G. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Ristorante
Mamma Gina, 73705 El Paseo, #s 30B, C & D, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
Approved on a 4-0-1 vote (AYES: Harnik, Kelly, Nestande, and Weber;
NOES: None; ABSTAINED: Jonathan).
H. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE. by Sweet Spot
Cafe, 73338 Highway 111, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
1. Audit, Investment & Finance Committee Meeting of January 22, 2019.
2. Cultural Resources Preservation Committee Meeting of January 29,
2019.
Rec: Receive and file.
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REGULAR PPjLM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 11, 2019
J. RESOLUTION NO. 2019 - 12 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of
Palm Desert, California, Setting Forth Its Findings and Authorizing the
Destruction of Paper Records that Have Been Digitally Imaged from the
Department of Community Development/Planning, to Rely on the Electronic
Record as the Official Record - Exhibit "A" - Various Community
Development/Planning Files.
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
K. RESOLUTION NO. 2019 -13 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of
Palm Desert, California, Setting Forth Its Findings and Authorizing the
Destruction of Paper Records that Have Been Digitally Imaged from the
Finance Department, to Rely on the Electronic Record as the Official
Record - Exhibit "A" - Various Finance Department Files.
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
L. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT to Sillman Wright Architects for
Design Consulting Services for the Interior Improvements to the Palm Desert
Council Chamber (Contract No. C37960A, Project No. 765-19).
This item was removed for separate consideration under Section XIII -
Consent Items Held Over - of the agenda. Please see that portion of the
minutes for resulting discussion and action.
M. REQUEST FOR RENEWAL OF CONTRACT with Same Day Express in
Fiscal Year 2019-2020 for Maintenance of the City of Palm Desert's
Permanent Public Art Collection and the El Paseo Sculpture Exhibition
(Contract No. C36132).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) Renewal of subject contract
with Same Day Express in the amount of $49,992 for the period of
July 1, 2019 - June 30, 2020, for maintenance of the City of
Palm Desert's Permanent Public Art Collection and the El Paseo
Sculpture Exhibition; 2) up to $5,000 on an as -needed basis for
additional maintenance services from Same Day Express; 3) Mayor
to execute said contract renewal — monies will be available in the
Public Art Fund for FY 2019-2020.
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N. REQUEST FOR RATIFICATION of Change Order No. 1 to Contract
No. A38010 — Council Chamber Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning
(HVAC) Replacement Project (Project No. 764-18) (Desert Air Conditioning,
Inc., Palm Springs, CA).
Rec: By Minute Motion, ratify approval of Change Order No. 1 in the
amount of $9,379 to subject contract for additional HVAC equipment
necessary for the media control room in the Council Chamber— funds
have been allocated to Account No. 4504161-4400100 - Building
Maintenance.
O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Palm Desert's 2019 Independence Day
Celebration Scheduled for Thursday, July 4 (Contract Series Nos. C38430).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Preapprove and authorize expenditures in an
amount not to exceed $60,000 ($40,000 to Pyro Spectaculars, Inc.,
[Contract No. C38430AI and $20,000 for ancillary vendors) from the
FY 2019-2020 Budget for production of the 2019 Independence Day
Celebration event; 2) authorize City Manager to execute ancillary
vendor contracts associated with production of the event in an amount
not to exceed $20,000.
P. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the 2019 Relay For Life of Coachella Valley
Event Scheduled for Saturday, November 9 (Samantha Tweddell,
Community Development Manager, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) The 2019 Relay For Life of
Coachella Valley scheduled for Saturday, November 9; 2) temporary
waiver of Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Sections:
a) 11.01.140 - Amplified Sound in City Parks; b) 11.01.080(0) -
Placement of Advertising Signage in City Parks; c) 11.01.080(Q) -
Vendor Sales in -City Parks; d) 1 1.01.080(W) -
Possession/Consumption of Alcohol in City Parks, pursuant to
PDMC Section 9.58.040.
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
Q. MINUTES of the March 28, 2019, Regular Meeting of the Board of Directors
of the Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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R. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST SUCCESSOR AGENCY TREASURY -
Warrant Dated 3/22/2019.
Rec: Approve as presented.
S. COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS & INVESTMENT REPORTS for the Months of
January 2019 and February 2019 (Joint Consideration with the
Palm Desert City Council - Item D above).
Rec: Receive and file.
PALM DESERT FINANCING AUTHORITY
T. MINUTES of the Financing Authority Meeting of September 27, 2018.
Rec: Approve as presented.
PALM DESERT HOUSING AUTHORITY
U. MINUTES of the Housing Authority Meeting of March 28, 2019.
Rec: Approve as presented.
V. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY/HOUSING TREASURIES -
Warrant Dated 3/22/2019 (Joint Consideration with the Palm Desert
City Council - Item C above).
Rec: Approve as presented.
Ms. Aylaian requested that Item L be removed for separate consideration, and
Councilman Jonathan noted that he would be ABSTAINING from the vote on
Item G.
Upon a motion by Harnik, second by Nestande, and 5-0 vote of the City Council,
Successor Agency Board, Financing and Housing Authority Boards (AYES: Harnik,
Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, and Weber; NOES: None; ABSTAINING: Jonathan on Item
G alone), the balance of the Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
XIII. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
L. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT to Sillman Wright Architects for
Design Consulting Services for the Interior Improvements to the Palm Desert
Council Chamber (Contract No. C37960A, Project No. 765-19).
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Ms. Aylaian remarked that this item was requested for separate
consideration because a modification was requested only for
recommendation #1, adding the words, "subject to minor modifications
approved by the City Manager, City Attorney, and Director of Public Works."
Remainder of the recommendation would be the same. She said this
resulted from staff needing to address some technical issues on the
certificate of insurance provided by the architect.
Responding to question, staff confirmed that the correct name of the
architectural firm was Sillman Wright Architects (instead of Stillman Wright
as it had appeared on the agenda).
Upon inquiry about recommendation #2 to appropriate $90,000 from General
Fund to the Building Maintenance Capital Improvement Project Fund,
inasmuch as the fiscal analysis indicates no impact, Ms. Aylaian responded
that the cost of the design services is $90,000. She added that there is no
impact beyond the $90,000 at this point; but if the project continues on to
construction, an appropriation for that cost would be required.
Further answering, Ms. Moore stated the $90,000 amount is General Fund
money set aside for this purpose; subject request would be applied to the
same fund. She went on to explain that funds will be budgeted in Fiscal
Year 2019-2020 and confirmed that the $90,000 for this specific request was
not budgeted for FY 2018-2019. Responding to comment that this
represented an unbudgeted use of the General Fund and question why it
wasn't part of any one of the existing Capital Improvement Accounts, she
believed it was coming forward at this time from the Unobligated General
Fund Reserve Account in order to get the architect started on the project so
that some of the work can be done during Council's summer recess. She
went on to say that since the FY 2019-2020 Budget will not be presented to
City Council until late June, that timing would be too late; the request was
being made now to proceed with this part of the project, and remainder of
design and actual construction are being included in the proposed FY 2019-
2020 Budget. She clarified that the monies are coming from the General
Fund Building Maintenance Fund when FY 2019-2020 commences;
however, since there was no Capital Project included in FY 2018-2019, the
funds needed appropriation at this time. She went on to confirm that the
requested funds were coming from Fund 450, which is tied to the General
Fund and set aside for the requested purpose, but will not affect General
Fund 110.
Councilmember Harnik moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Award subject contract to
Sillman Wright Architects, San Diego, California, in the amount of $90,000 for design
consulting services related to interior improvements of the City Council Chamber, subject
to minor modifications approved by the City Manager, City Attorney, and Director of Public
Works; 2) appropriate $90,000 from Unobligated General Funds to the Building
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Maintenance Capital Improvement Project Fund for this purpose; 3) authorize the City
Managerto execute said Agreement and any necessary Change Orders — if above actions
are approved, funds will be available in Project Account No. 4504161-4400100. Motion
was seconded by Councilmember Kelly and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan,
Kelly, Nestande, and Weber; NOES: None).
XIV. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2019 - 14 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING PARCEL
MAP NO. 37157 (Fountainhead Shrugged, LLC, Applicant).
Staff confirmed that it wished to withdraw this matter from today's agenda.
With City Council concurrence, Resolution No. 2019-14 was withdrawn from
consideration on this agenda.
XV. ORDINANCES
A. For Introduction:
None
B. For Adoption:
None
XVI. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR ADOPTION OF THE PALM DESERT "STATEMENT OF
INVESTMENT POLICY, AS AMENDED" (JOINT CONSIDERATION WITH
THE SUCCESSOR AGENCYTO THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, PALM DESERT FINANCING AUTHORITY, AND PALM DESERT
HOUSING AUTHORITY).
Deputy City Treasurer Thomas Metz stated adoption of the Palm Desert
"Statement of Investment Policy, As Amended," was requested as part of the
Finance Department's annual review process. He said several changes
were being recommended, either to make the Policy more conservative or
to align it more closely with the State Investment Code.
Mayor/Chair/President/Chairman Weber added that this matter was
presented to the Audit, Investment & Finance Committee on March 26 and
given approval.
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Mayor Pro Tem/Vice ChairNice President/Vice Chairman Nestande moved to waive
further reading and adopt the Palm Desert Statement of Investment Policy, As Amended,
with: 1) City Council Resolution No. 2019-15; 2) Successor Agency Resolution
No. SA -RDA 076; 3) Financing Authority Resolution No. FA-69; 4) Housing Authority
Resolution No. H A - 9 1 . Motion was seconded by
Councilmember/Director/Commissioner/Member Kelly and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES:
Harnik, Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, and Weber; NOES: None).
B. CONSIDERATION OF UNIVERSITY PARK COMMUNITY FACILITIES
DISTRICT (CFD) BOND REFUNDING (JOINT CONSIDERATION WITH
THE PALM DESERT FINANCING AUTHORITY).
Senior Management Analyst Veronica Tapia commented that of the
$70 million originally issued in 2006-2007 for this CFD, approximately
$28 million remains for property owners to pay debt service on annually.
She noted that the economic downturn occurred subsequent to this debt
issuance, and the majority property owner here currently is University Park
Investor LLC (UPI) at 63%. They have completed the entitlement process,
are now in the grading permit process and asked the City to see if any cost
savings could be achieved with a refunding. She went on to say that the City
has engaged its municipal advisor for such review, and he came back with
a savings of $4.65 million over remaining life of the bond, which is
approximately $273,000/year going back to property owners. Generally, she
said if there is a net present value (NPV) savings of around 3%, it's said to
be a good cost savings for refund; this particular issue is conservatively
estimated to have 11.45% NPV, with staff believing there is slightly more if
refunding is closed by the September 2019 call date. Therefore, staff was
requesting authority to engage the finance team and move forward with
documentation required to refund. The Audit, Investment & Finance
Committee nominated two of its members for the selection subcommittee to
choose an underwriter from the pool approved by City Council in 2018. She
pointed out that there will be no impact to the General Fund, with all costs
associated with the financing team needed to accomplish the refunding
being borne by the cost of issuance. She offered to answer questions.
Councilman/Commissioner Jonathan commended staff for its work on this
item. He added that periodically the City refinances/refunds debt and asked
staff if there was a process for systematically reviewing savings
opportunities.
Ms. Tapia answered that, generally, staff responds whenever a pool
participant comes forward to alert the City that a particular savings would
benefit the homeowners/property owners; or if the property owner comes in
to specifically request the City take a look. Further responding, she
confirmed that the City had not initiated such a review previously and
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reiterated that it waits for an affected property owner to make a request
instead.
Councilman/Commissioner Jonathan said he would leave it to staff's
discretion, but felt it prudent to initiate review for potential opportunities.
Councilmember/Commissioner Harnik moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize:
1) City Manager and the Finance Officer (Director of Finance of the City of Palm Desert)
to begin working with the financing team to prepare necessary preliminary documentation
for issuance of Refunding Bonds for University Park 2006A bonds — including entering into
engagement letters and agreements with the financing team for their services; 2) staff to
select an underwriter from the approved Underwriters Pool, based on criteria established
in the Request For Qualifications (RFQ) dated June 4, 2018, and prioritized by the
refunding needs of the CFD. Motion was seconded by Mayor Pro TemNice President
Nestande and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, and Weber;
NOES: None).
C. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION, TO GO TO BID FOR OPERATIONS OF
THE 2019/2020 EL PASEO COURTESY CART PROGRAM AND
CONSIDERATION OF FUTURE PROGRAMS.
Mr. Alvarez reviewed background of the Courtesy Carts Program in follow-up
to City Council's February 28 Study Session, including that it offers a free
shuttle service on El Paseo for visitors, guests, and residents in the period
of October - May. Two carts are operated from 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. daily;
a third cart is available upon request for persons needing accessibility and
for special events throughout the year. Presently, he said carts are hailed
individually, and riders can hop on in a safe location; there are also eight (8)
designated locations along the street identified with a yellow -colored ground
identification symbol. Courtesy Cart Program is funded through the General
Fund, with current contract set to expire in May. Further, at the
aforementioned Study Session, staff presented and discussed various
options for modifying, enhancing, and engaging the program to move it
forward. He recalled those being:
— Retaining existing program and going forward with a new contract.
— Contracting with an outside vendor (similar to FRED [Free Ride
Everywhere Downtown] and Around Town programs) to provide an
enhanced opportunity with app managed by a third party, including their
ownership of the carts and managed insurance (like Uber).
— Adding a mobile phone application to the existing program.
— Expanding program, possibly off El Paseo onto San Pablo Avenue, trips
to The Living Desert, or Westfield, etc.
— Opportunities for advertising on the vehicle — interior or exterior.
— Opportunities for enhancing visibility of the carts by providing on -board
overhead identification, an additional visual queue that the service is
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available; possibly illuminated signage for vehicle roof with "El Paseo
Courtesy Cart," or "Free Shuttle," etc.
Mr. Alvarez went on to say staff has developed several recommendations,
both from input received and things it has looked at in greater detail. One
definite recommendation is authorization to advertise a Request For
Proposals (RFP) in order to go forward with new contract for next fiscal year
(2019-2020). He added that the RFP was being designed as a one-year
contract with two, one-year extensions, if City Council so authorizes.
Additionally, he said staff recommends retaining the carts as City -owned and
insured, providing the same level of service with two carts and operating
hours of 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m. He stated staff will continue looking at other
ways for enhancement within the scope of the contract — modifying hours
based on peak season and weekend demand, accordingly, with third cart
available as needed. Estimated budget amount for FY 2019-2020 is
approximately $140,000.
He elaborated that other recommendations provided in the printed staff
report included there currently being some unallocated funds in the
Economic Development Department budget for FY 2018-2019 to move
forward now with identification on the carts themselves. Bids would be
secured for rooftop -affixed signage, illuminated at night for increased
visibility — cost for three carts estimated at $15,000. Staff also recommends
adding a mobile phone application to track the current cart systems,
providing notification to riders as the vehicles arrive at their geographic
location. Mobile phone application is available through SunLine Transit
Authority, and City staff has been working with them on its development in
order for the City to utilize existing expertise and information already
gathered for this purpose. Along with the above, if the City is going to
employ a mobile phone application, it needs to prepare additional marketing
materials for greater exposure to the program. This could include additional
street decals, rack cards, or other advertising, with an estimated budget of
$5,000 for next fiscal year (2019-2020).
Lastly, he sought City Council feedback regarding on -board advertising.
Staff recommended advertising within the cart and developing a policy to be
brought back before City Council for adoption, regarding who advertises —
only City businesses or El Paseo businesses, City events or other major
events throughout the year. Initial concept being considered is a digital
screen inside the cart with looped message displaying throughout the ride.
Circulation of the carts is recommended to remain on El Paseo, that being
intended focus of the effort at this time. However, he foresaw opportunities
for expansion in the future once the San Pablo Corridor comes online, as
well as additional energy and movement on the 111 Corridor. In summary,
Mr. Alvarez restated that staff's request for the El Paseo Courtesy Carts was
to go out to RFP and to include a couple of the aforementioned items in
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FY 2019-2020 Budget for marketing, along with the mobile phone
application.
Councilmember Harnik assured her colleagues that the El Paseo Parking
and Property Improvement District Board would be very happy with the
proposal, because they were strongly supportive of enhancing the program.
She said they've been talking about and working on it over the past year,
feeling it very important to their operations. She called attention to the
ridership table comparing 2016-2017 to 2017-2018 in the staff report,
pleased by the increase. She also loved the mobile phone app and felt it
would be a tremendous asset. Additionally, she and Mayor Pro Tern
Nestande, as part of the City's Marketing Committee, had opportunity to
receive a presentation on market positioning. She was struck by the need
to use "Palm Desert" more often, especially in looking at sample signage in
this presentation, agreeing that it should say "El Paseo" and "Courtesy Cart,"
but urging that it prominently include "Palm Desert" in a larger typeface, if
possible. She acknowledged seeing City's "PD" logo on the carts currently,
but it doesn't necessarily say "Palm Desert" to everyone. Further, given that
this is a pretty straightforward contract with 30-day termination clause, and
considering the cost both in dollars and staff time, she felt it may be prudent
to make a two-year contract with one, two-year extension, instead of one and
one, providing more time before the next RFP comes due.
Mayor Pro Tern Nestande noted that Councilmember Kelly invited SunLine
officials to the February 28 Study Session, and Mr. Alvarez mentioned
contacting them about the mobile app here today, but she wondered if
SunLine had made any comment about financial aspects or cost -benefit of
operating a third cart.
Mr. Alvarez responded that staff Business Advocate Deborah Glickman
followed up with SunLine to discuss the mobile phone application, but he
didn't think they got into any of the pros or cons of adding a third cart. He
submitted that the two existing carts are being used extensively but didn't
think it beneficial to add a third cart at this time, because it was being used
as needed for special events and a good fit in that regard. Councilmember
Kelly added that SunLine can be available to the City on an ongoing basis
to assist staff with assessment of these questions as additional data is
acquired.
In answer to question about the definition of El Paseo for purposes of the
Courtesy Cart Route, given requests for it to go past the Historical Society
of Palm Desert and to The Galen at Palm Springs Art Museum in
Palm Desert, Mr. Alvarez confirmed the cart system has been utilized on
El Paseo from its initiation at Highway 111 on one end to termination at
Highway 111 on the other end. He said this encompasses the entire stretch
west to east from Entrada del Paseo, which is location of the Palm Springs
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Art Museum in Palm Desert. Further responding to question about when
input on the advertising policy should be received, he agreed that it would be
appropriate to receive some feedback and/or direction for staff here in order
to develop a draft policy for the vehicles (e.g. inside or outside and the types
of businesses to be marketed).
Councilmember Kelly noted she understood staff's recommendations here
to include staff exploration of advertising options and presumed that City
Council would first want some analysis to be presented before being able to
constructively discuss how the policy should be adopted, such as boundary
lines that can be lawfully drawn in compliance with the First Amendment.
Mr. Alvarez concurred and said staff intended to return to the City Council
with a proposed policy and recommendations. Upon inquiry about whether
or not staff wanted to know if City Council favored limiting the scope of El
Paseo Courtesy Cart advertising to only El Paseo businesses, he said that
was something staff would be exploring — if/how it can be limited, and if so,
how to implement.
Given staff's comment about analyzing what is aligned with the First
Amendment, Councilmember Harnik felt digital advertising would be
appropriate inside the cart., adding she would welcome more information in
order for City Council to make a decision.
Councilman Jonathan liked what was being presented; it was a great step
forward, albeit a baby step, while he thought the City was ready for an adult
step — great for El Paseo, but a missed opportunity. He called attention to
the staff report's second reference under Strategic Plan Objectives,
Transportation Priority No. 3, to "De-emphasize the use of single/low
occupancy vehicles and optimize multiple modes of travel." He felt it City
Council's responsibility to move forward here by expanding the Courtesy Cart
Program well beyond El Paseo and really use it as a way to define and
create the Downtown City Core — one of the Strategic Plan's primary
objectives. He believed it appropriate to expand to The Living Desert, Street
Fair, etc. Further, he didn't think an app that merely lets people know where
the cart is would be particularly beneficial; an app like the one used for FRED
and other vendors, where a person can actually hail the Courtesy Cart for a
direct pick-up, is much more useful.
Mayor Pro Tern Nestande felt once the Downtown Core was established,
including San Pablo Corridor improvements, would be the appropriate time
to expand service. She questioned the demand for it presently for someone
who'd been at The Living Desert walking around, getting hot, sweaty, and
touching animals, wanting to then go shopping on El Paseo.
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Councilman Jonathan agreed, adding that the City would find out. Part of his
concern was about parking for The Living Desert sometimes being all the
way down Portola Avenue to Haystack. He felt there was an opportunity
here for people to park in the structure at The Gardens, spend some time on
El Paseo, then go up to Living Desert for a couple of hours, if they have an
annual membership. He said there was also the McCallum Theatre, Street
Fair, or College of the Desert itself, and eventually CWLink. Notwithstanding,
he didn't have a problem waiting, as he heard his colleagues' comments and
concurred it may be premature to take it to the next level. The one-year
contract allows San Pablo to get under development, then the Courtesy Cart
Program can be reevaluated. He was also intrigued that there may be some
professional expertise and assistance available for expanding it even beyond
the Downtown City Core eventually to a network of shuttles going out to
JW Marriott Desert Springs, Desert Willow, and the University area, hoping
Councilmember Kelly had more information in this regard.
Councilmember Kelly said it was well known that transportation is evolving
by the second, and SunLine is now identifying areas for exploration of a pilot
rideshare program that integrates with both local transportation options in
cities and with SunLine trunk services. Moreover, it was her firm belief that
the extent of transportation alternatives furnished by providers other than the
City would be revealed over the next 1-2 years. She said then the City can
determine how it can strategically supplement transportation options to
achieve its own objectives of spurring/supporting businesses. Therefore, she
felt 1-2 years' commitment to the existing Courtesy Cart Program makes very
good sense, because City Council unanimously recognizes that it should be
doing this much to support El Paseo businesses, with consideration for the
rest at a future juncture. Councilman Jonathan concurred.
Councilmember Harnik thought The Living Desert issue was an important
one to look at going forward, agreeing that when they hold an event where
parking spills out on Portola Avenue, it5needs City consideration. Although,
she felt it should be a co-op opportunity with The Living Desert where they
contribute toward it; it shouldn't be all taxpayer funds.
Councilman Jonathan said he was persuaded and moved to, by Minute Motion:
1) Authorize staff to advertise a Notice Inviting Sealed Bids for Operation of the El Paseo
Courtesy Carts in FY 2019-2020 (Contract No. C38440); 2) approve an expenditure in an
amount not to exceed $15,000 for signage on the three (3) Courtesy Carts — funds are
available in the Economic Development Fund; 4) direct staff to develop an advertising
policy and strategy for the Courtesy Carts. Motion was seconded by Mayor Pro Tern
Nestande and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, and Weber;
NOES: None).
PRELIMINARY MINUTES D R A F T
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XVII. CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XVIII. OLD BUSINESS
None
XIX. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL REVIEW. OF PLANNING COMMISSION
RESOLUTION NO.2754 FOR ADMINISTRATIVE USE PERMIT 19-0001 TO
ALLOW A STABLE'FOR UP TO THREE (3) HORSES ON A RESIDENTIAL
ESTATE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 77630 DELAWARE PLACE
(Marc and Jenny Gerhardt, Applicants).
Assistant Planner Nick Melloni reviewed the staff report and chronology of
events for the case. After the Zoning Administrator's decision was issued on
January 30, 2019, the case was appealed on February 14, with residents'
primary concerns being impacts caused by odor, dust, flies, and potential
impacts to viewsheds. At its March 5, 2019, meeting, Planning Commission
upheld Zoning Administrator's decision to approve the application, and on
March 20, City Council requested a review. He called attention to a map
showing general location of the project near the City's eastern boundary,
between Washington Street and Warner Trail, adding it is the only part of
City featuring the RE (Residential Estate) zoning designation. He said this
property is 1+ acres, rectangular in shape, and currently features a single-
family residence under construction by the property owners/applicants in the
subject case. Properties immediately north of the site are zoned single-
family residential (R-1), with a minimum lot size of 8,000 square feet,
compared to RE being a.minimum of 40,000 square feet.
Mr. Melloni went on to say that the City's Zoning Ordinance allows horses in
the RE zone, subject to applicant obtaining an Administrative Use Permit
(AUP) approved by the Zoning Administrator and reviewed for things like
minimum setback, maximum number of horses, areas for the horse
enclosure, along with operational guidelines to ensure odor is not an issue.
He said the Applicant specifically requested approval for two (2) horses on
their yard; however, there is provision to allow an additional pony, which is
in line with the Ordinance. Further, he said the Code requires a minimum
100-foot separation from properties that are not also zoned RE, and since
properties to the north are R-1, the larger setback is required; subject
proposal complies with all development standards. He provided an
illustration of the horse shelter, which is within scale as an accessory
structure to the existing primary home. He stated that in staff's analysis, it
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concludes that the subject application complies with all Municipal Code
requirements, as summarized in table shown in the printed staff report —
minimum lot size, maximum number of horses, etc. He added that as part
of the Planning Commission Resolution, as well as in the initial decision,
conditions of approval were drafted to ensure regular maintenance of the
property by the Applicant. This includes daily waste cleaning and its removal
from the property at least weekly, more often, if necessary, if determination
made that odor becomes an issue; and there is compliance with all
standards. Additionally, since this is an Administrative Use Permit (AUP),
staff imposed a non-transferrable condition, meaning any new operator
would have to come in and go through the process again to receive approval
so that they would understand the City's expectations for maintaining horses
on their property. In closing, Mr. Melloni said staff recommends that City
Council reaffirm the Planning Commission's decision to uphold for the
project, thereby approving the stable.
Upon question, referring to the printed staff report's Table 1 that sets forth
Ordinance standards compared to the subject project, showing conformity
to each criteria, for the legal basis City Council would have for overturning
both the Zoning Administrator's approval and the Planning Commission's
affirmation, Mr. Stendell replied that the Municipal Code doesn't leave a lot
of latitude for this specific case. Presently, he said it states that the Planning
Commission's decision is final. After consulting with the City Attorney, they
determined that, ultimately, City Council has full discretion over this permit.
However, per the Municipal Code, City Council has requested review for
conformity to the broader zoning designation; and it's being treated as a
public hearing.
In further response to question of whether or not City Council has a basis for
denial even when the application is in full conformity, Mr. Hargreaves said in
his prior review of the Ordinance compared to the subject case, he
concluded that -the City Council does not have absolute discretion. `Findings
would have to be made under the Ordinance that the application was not
consistent with it. Upon his review of PDMC 25.64.040(D)(3), "Granting the
permit would not be detrimental to the public interest, health, safety,
convenience, or welfare, or materially injurious to persons, property, or
improvements in the vicinity in which the project is located," he said that was
the parameter that City Council would need to rely upon.
Mayor Weber declared the public hearing open and invited testimony
SUPPORTING or OPPOSING the review of Case No. AUP 19-0001.
MS. CHRISTINE SCHWARTZ, Edinborough Street, Palm Desert, said her
residence was directly behind the subject property. She stated they went
over to measure the property from the Applicant's back patio pillar to her
wall, and it was 172 feet. She thought then if the stable has to be 100 feet
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from her wall, it will be almost at the applicant's house. Additionally, she
wondered if with the pasture, it meant the horses could come right up to her
wall, or if it needed to be further away from it. She noted that her husband
has COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and is on oxygen
around 18 hours/day, which is worrisome for the effects of this application
being so near their residence. She said yesterday the wind and dust were
very bad in the neighborhood, and their main concern was health -related.
She believed the applicant got a bum deal on the property, because it wasn't
ready for horses nor enough room for them on the lot. It wasn't fair to the
horses, the applicant, or any of the neighbors.
MS. RENATE BURNSKNOBLAUCH, Devonshire Street, Palm Desert, said
first, she was never notified of this issue. Second, Palm Desert is a city, not
the countryside like Yucca Valley. She related that her daughter in-law lives
on five acres there and at one time had a couple of horses; before that she
lived on Clancy Lane in Rancho Mirage where they had an acre of land and
two horses, but it was inadequate for exercise or anything else. Further, her
main concern was odor and dust; as she, too, has the start of COPD and
was not yet on oxygen, but probably would be soon. She was also
concerned about this application's effect on all the other homes in the area,
believing the Ordinance should be reviewed and possibly changed, as this
is not an appropriate place for horses.
DR. JEFF SUDERMAN, Edinborough Street, Palm Desert, thanked the
City Council for its time and work on behalf of this fine city. He felt this
matter very important and picked up where legal counsel left off earlier in the
hearing, believing there were two matters related to horses on the subject
property where the Code has been violated. First is the City saying that the
site is physically suited for this purpose, which he said while the site may be,
the neighborhood is not. Secondly, the City states the permit would not be
detrimental to public interest, health, safety, convenience, welfare, or
materially injurious to property or the vicinity, etc.; here again, he thought it
was. His major concern, while there were several that Mr. Melloni
mentioned, is a key word the City keeps missing: health — with two citizens
bringing it up already, and it's significant. He said this neighborhood abuts
playgrounds, playschools, churches, and apartment buildings; so it's not just
a few neighbors, but a neighborhood issue. Therefore, they believe the
decision should be overturned, because the City is violating two of its own
principles. Additionally, he requested a review of City Zoning for this region,
as he didn't believe the City has decided merely to allow three horses on the
subject property, but 210 horses in the neighborhood — with 70 one -acre lots
there, making it a bigger issue for the playgrounds and citizens impacted.
He said up to this point, the City has consistently communicated that the land
use code is sacrosanct and being followed. However, he thought everyone
knew the City would never allow 210 horses there, leading him to believe
there was a degree of latitude to the decision and encouraged the City to use
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it, even though it has chosen not to up to now. Lastly, he felt the Estate
designation on the subject property was legacy zoning left over from before
there was a neighborhood in the area and requested a process review, given
that he had called attention to many process gaps in this cases's handling.
They ranged from City staff discouraging the chances of appeal to
Councilmembers giving him different answers on even what or how this
process would be. He believed there was opportunity for clean-up, yet
acknowledging that the City does many more things right than it does wrong,
again thanking City Council for its work, advocacy, and support of him and
his neighbors here.
MR. SCOTT CROFOOT, Edinborough Street, Palm Desert, after asking
when the subject zoning was approved and finding out from City staff that
it was 1997, commented that meant there were probably not any houses on
the street then. So he felt there needed to be a review of that area's zoning
for future use.
MR. JON CURRIE, Sussex Street, Palm Desert, said his residence was
about a block away from the subject property. First, he wished to say that
he loved living in Palm Desert and thanked City Council for having this
hearing and listening to the residents. To the best of his knowledge, he was
perplexed that no one in the neighborhood knew anything about the subject
case until there was a hearing about it just going through. Normally, he
would have expected residents to be noticed that the case was being
considered from the beginning, seeming to him that the democratic process
was skipped here. On a related note, he formerly lived in the City of
Agoura Hills in western Los Angeles County also incorporated around 1973,
but when it was, Agoura Hills made it very clear that equestrian property was
to be desired there and a big part of its heritage. He added that Agoura Hills
did so by making a separate section of equestrian -only properties, with tracts
of the type he lived in being barred from this. He understood zoning
principles, but it made no sense that an R-3 [sic] was butted up against R-1,
and then assuming that the R-1 just goes on about its own business while
the R-3 [sic] is allowed to do anything on its property.
MS. ZELDA SMITH, Edinborough Street, Palm Desert, concurred with
neighbors who'd already spoken about their concerns for dust and odor,
adding that she receives two allergy shots per week and takes allergy
medications. In addition to the dust, flies, and odor, she was very concerned
about her future health and offered to provide her health records in this
regard. Additionally, she was also worried about well-being of the horses.
MR. WINDRIE WONG, Hastings Street, Palm Desert, said his home was
about a block away from the property under consideration. He, too, was
concerned about the process. He started to look into the matter but, upon
going to the website and Planning Commission link, found that there were no
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minutes available for the March 5 meeting. He felt the process would be
more complete if minutes of that meeting were available where everyone had
registered their concerns and the public could go through them. This was
because his recollection of the deliberations, and though he couldn't
rememberwhich one, was that one of the Planning Commissioners indicated
they had horses, representing a conflict in his mind if that person is partial to
horses. With the minutes, he would have been able to confirm his
recollection. He also remembered another member stating they don't live in
Palm Desert, and he needed all the records available in order to present his
case today. He added that there were minutes available of meetings prior
to March 5 and hoped to get some more information as he followed this
process.
With no further public testimony being offered, Mayor Weber declared the public
hearing closed.
Mayor Pro Tern Nestande noted that under California State Law, any time a
home is sold, the buyer is to be provided with a several -page -long Natural
Hazard Disclosure Statement. This document tells everything about the
property/home you're going to purchase — environmental, zoning — and the
seller and buyer both have to sign -off on it. While uncertain when this
property was purchased or when speakers here today purchased theirs, she
speculated that they probably received the Natural Hazard Disclosure
Statement reflecting they were near horse property.
Councilmember Kelly stated she'd read everything folks had submitted for
this item, listened very carefully to testimony, and what came across to her
most dramatically was everyone who's concerned assumes a "worst -case"
scenario — that horses inherently create dust, odor, and flies. However, it
was also clear to her that the conditions being imposed here are designed
to make sure that the worst -case scenario does not occur. She said there
was really no factual basis to fear that the presence of horses is going to
cause more dust than the lot has caused without horses, reiterating that the
conditions afford protection; and the City provides assurance that the
conditions will be met. She went on to say that part of Palm Desert's identity
was affording a full range of housing options; it is not a one -size -fits -all city
but one that tries to assure both the wealthiest and those of most -challenged
means can all access amenities that assure a good life. She said part of that
included preserving some space for larger lots, as in the subject instance,
which can accommodate a limited number of horses. She hadn't heard
anything here causing her to question either the policy or its application, with
a pretty substantial 100-foot setback— equaling one-third of a football field —
to assure that ill effects will not be suffered, especially with the specific
conditions put in place. She summarized by urging everyone to look at this
from the perspective of the life that the conditions assure instead of the
worst -case scenario that might happen without those conditions.
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Councilman Jonathan first addressed issues surrounding the process in this
matter. Staff's report indicated that notice went out to property owners within
300 feet and listed 35 homes being notified. He thought that was in
compliance with City policy, and Mr. Melloni concurred. Regarding
comments about the minutes, he fully understood, as did the City Council,
noting that it was actually kind of a short time period to have minutes on the
website with the whole process that has to occur for this and defended City
staff for doing the best job possible. Further, he said every possible step
was being taken to expedite the process of posting minutes on the website.
Mr. Melloni pointed out that the minutes also have to appear back before the
Planning Commission to ensure that they're consistent. He added that
preliminary minutes from the March 5 Planning Commission Meeting were
included in the agenda packet before City Council and also posted on the
website for this item on today's agenda. Additionally, the Public is able to
contact the Planning Department at any time to request this information.
Councilman Jonathan continued, saying the comments he'd heard, letters
he'd read, and a -mails received all certainly resonated with him and were
valid. He said our homes are very much sacred in so many ways, and if
someone threatens our home and its peaceful enjoyment, it is a very
sensitive issue and would be the same for him as the neighbors here.
However, he thought Councilmember Kelly's comments also had validity —
the Zoning Ordinance is intended to mitigate the impacts about which
residents are concerned. From his standpoint, it was difficult to deny an
application when it's in compliance with the Zoning Ordinance; that becomes
arbitrary, and one time it may work in your favor, the next time it may work
against. The whole point of the process was to be objective, not subjective,
and even though the concerns resonated, he could not find a way to
appropriately overturn the previous conclusions. Further, he was
encouraged that staff placed additional restrictions beyond those required by
the Ordinance, including horses being kept within the approved stable and
daily cleaning versus a lesser requirement, etc. He was hopeful that
between the Zoning Ordinance itself and these additional restrictions placed
on the Applicant that the kinds of fallouts residents are concerned about will
not, in fact, materialize. Lastly, he submitted that if the Applicant is not in
compliance, the permit shall be revoked, which is the fail-safe.
Councilmember Harnik felt everything had been said that needed to be from
her perspective.
Mayor Weber stated she also agreed with what had been said. She went on
to remind everyone that the City's Code Compliance Department is very
proactive; if there are any problems with any of the stated restrictions, the
City should be called, Code Compliance will go out to investigate
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PRELIMINARY MINUTES D R A F T
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immediately, and she reiterated that the permit can be revoked. She added
that the property owner is fully aware of this fact. She called attention to the
300-foot radius of notification and list of addresses to which notice was
given, as shown in the public record for this item. But she was discomforted
when people said they didn't receive notice after the City followed its
procedures as closely as possible. She asked staff to give this an additional
review. Other than that, she said the City has followed the process — the
owner followed instructions and did everything he was supposed to do, the
Zoning Administrator sent out the 15-day notice to approve the AUP
(Administrative Use Permit) for the 300-foot radius, and the City followed all
requirements. She observed that this is what Planning Commission
reviews — following City ordinances to the letter and doing as Council has
directed. City Council has reviewed all of this; but if it decides at a later date
to make changes to future acquisitions of property, it may consider doing so.
Councilmember Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 2019 - 16, reaffirming the Planning Commission's decision to uphold the Zoning
Administrator's approval of Administrative Use Permit 19-0001. Motion was seconded by
Mayor Pro Tern Nestande and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Kelly,
Nestande, and Weber; NOES: None).
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Weber thanked everyone who
took time to write letters and e-mails, or came forward to speak at this
meeting. She said all of this becomes part of the public record, and she
provided a reminder for residents to call the City immediately if any problems
are experienced.
XX. ADJOURNMENT
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Weber adjourned the meeting at 5:37 p.m.
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
SUSAN MARIE WEBER, MAYOR
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