HomeMy WebLinkAboutAIPP - TH-225 Cupids on Dome - L.Biggi CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
REQUEST: AFFIRM THE RECOMMENDATION OF THE ART IN PUBLIC
PLACES (AIPP) COMMISSION TO DENY THE APPLICATION
FOR REIMBURSEMENT OF ART IN PUBLIC PLACES FEE IN
THE AMOUNT OF $17,500 FOR TH-225 CUPIDS ON DOME BY
JACOB DAGAN FOR THE VENUS DE FIDO BUILDING LOCATED
AT 73-600 ALESSANDRO DRIVE, PALM DESERT
SUBMITTED BY: Deborah S. Glickman, Management Analyst
APPLICANT: Lindi Biggi
Venus de Fido
73-600 Alessandro Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
DATE: February 23, 2017
CONTENTS: 1. Developer Application Form B
2. Pictures of Completed Artwork and Plaque
3. Public Art Agreement
4. Proof of payment of Art in Public Places fee
5. Letter to Applicant concerning Art in Public Places fee from
former City Manager John Wohlmuth
6. Draft AIPP Commission meeting minutes from January 11 and
February 8, 2017
7. Art in Public Places Guidelines
Recommendation
By Minute Motion: 1) Uphold the recommendation of the AIPP
Commission and deny the request for reimbursement of Art in Public
Places in lieu fee in the amount of $17,500 for TH-225 Cupids on Dome
by Jacob Dagan for the Venus de Fido building located at 73-600
Alessandro Drive, Palm Desert.
Commission Recommendation
At its meeting of February 8, 2017, the Art in Public Places (AIPP) Commission
recommended by a unanimous vote of 6-0-0 the denial of the return of the Art in Public
7 2 5 00.00011\2 9 6 3 8 04 8.1
DRAFT 3/15/17
Staff Report
Request for Reimbursement of AIPP Fee to Venus de Fido
March 23, 2017
Page 2 of 4
Places in lieu fee for TH-225 Cupids on Dome as the public art component for the
Venus de Fido building located at 73-600 Alessandro Drive, Palm Desert.
Strategic Plan
The installation of public art helps to create a better community for residents and visitors
to Palm Desert. This concept is in line with the Arts & Culture Mini-Vision which states:
"Arts and culture give a community its soul. Palm Desert is the cultural
core of the Coachella Valley. Cultural tourism drives economic growth in
Palm Desert. The community is host to internationally recognized cultural
events that bring significant economic benefits to the City. Palm Desert is
a leader in arts education, ensuring a well-rounded population that
possesses high levels of creativity and critical thinking skills."
Background
Palm Desert's Art in Public Places program was established in 1976. When the Palm
Desert City Council established the Art in Public Places program, it recognized that
development brings with it urbanization and an increased need for cultural and artistic
outlets to improve the community's environment, image, and character. Since its
inception, the City's Public Art Program has been held in high regard and has been
emulated throughout the country.
The City Council also found that development of cultural and artistic assets should be
financed by those whose developments contribute to urbanization. The ordinance
states that establishment of the Art in Public Places Program will "promote the general
welfare through balancing the community's physical growth and revitalization and its
cultural and artistic resources."
When construction is undertaken in Palm Desert, a City ordinance requires that a
developer place approved artwork on a publically accessible place on its own property,
donate approved artwork to the City, or pay an in lieu public art fee into the Art in Public
Places (AIPP) Fund. The AIPP value is based on construction valuation and is
assessed at one quarter of one percent (Ya%) for residential projects with a valuation of
more than $100,000, one half of one percent (Y2%) for commercial projects, and one
percent (1%) for non-infrastructure City projects. The Art in Public Places fee deposit is
collected by the Building and Safety Department at the same time that applicable
development impact fees are paid. AIPP deposit is eligible for reimbursement to the
developer if an approved artwork is installed as proposed on the site or if a developer
donates an approved artwork to the City. If an artwork is not installed or donated, then
the AIPP deposit remains in the AIPP Fund to be expended on citywide artwork
installations, an example of which is the ongoing El Paseo Exhibition program.
72 500.00011\29638048.1
DRAFT 3/15/17
Staff Report
Request for Reimbursement of AIPP Fee to Venus de Fido
March 23, 2017
Page 3 of 4
In order for a developer to have a successful public art application, it is required that the
AIPP Guidelines are followed. Included in the guidelines are stipulations that the
proposed artwork must be created by a professional artist, as evidenced through a
resume, CV and/examples of past work, and be part of an edition of twenty (20) or less.
The above-described application and vetting process allows the AIPP Commission and
the City Council to assess the artwork for adherence to City policies, quality of the
artwork and artist, and aesthetics. If approved, the developer's acquisition and
installation costs are reimbursed up to the amount paid into the AIPP Fund.
Discussion
Staff has met with the applicant for the Venus de Fido project several times to assist
with understanding the Public Art approval process. In June and July 2014, Planning
Division staff members had a series of meetings with the applicant to discuss project
related fees, including the AIPP fee. These meetings culminated in a letter from the
former City Manager detailing the requirements that needed to be followed in order for a
public artwork to be eligible for fee reimbursement. In late 2016, Public Art staff also
met with a representative for the applicant to further discuss the process. Since that
time, the applicant did not follow the above outlined approval process to allow for fee
reimbursement for TH-225 Cupids on Dome by Jacob Dagan.
At its January 11 , 2017 meeting, the Commission reviewed the application and
determined that in addition to not having received approval prior to the installation of the
artwork, that the application was incomplete. Therefore, the Commission voted
unanimously to continue the item to its next meeting to allow the applicant time to
provide the missing information, which included documentation that the creator of the
sculpture is an established artist; clarification as to whether or not the artwork is, or is
intended to be, part of an edition of fifty (50) as indicated by the application; and what
number in the edition the artwork is.
At its February 8, 2017 meeting the AIPP Commission reviewed the materials submitted
by the applicant and recommended that City Council deny the request for the
reimbursement of the AIPP fee in the amount of $17,500 for the artwork for Venus de
Fido due to the following reasons:
1. The applicant has provided neither a resume nor a biography for the artist, as is
required by section 4.10.070 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code. Only a letter
from the artist with minimal information in it and a description of the fabrication
process was provided.
2. The application names Jacob Dagan as the artist for the project, but images
submitted to staff show that Chaiwatt Tohng is named as the artist on the plaque
that accompanies the artwork.
72500.00011\29638048.1
DRAFT 3/15/17
Staff Report
Request for Reimbursement of AIPP Fee to Venus de Fido
March 23, 2017
Page 4 of 4
3. There was still some question as to how many sculptures are, or will be, included
in the edition. A letter from Jacob Dagan states that the production of the
sculpture is limited to fifty (50) sculptures, but AIPP policy requires that the
artwork be in an edition of twenty (20) or less.
Denial of the return of the AIPP fee for this project would not result in the applicant's
having to remove the artwork from its installed location.
Fiscal Analysis
Approval of the recommendation denying the application for the return of the Art in
Public Places fee would have no fiscal impact.
Submitted by: Department Head:
gay",
J
Deborah S. Glickman, Ryan Stendell,
Management Analyst Director of Community Development
Approval:
Ja oore, Director of Finance
Lauri Aylaian, City Manager
City of Palm Desert, California
Art in Public Places Program
Form B: Project Completion Notification
Date
Form B should be submitted by the Developer upon installation of artwork on site
or donation of artwork to City of Palm Desert.
I. PROJECT INFORMATION
Project Name Si 0
Project Address V.TQ
Project Manager Name 1,.k NO 1
Project Manager Address SM-'0 CcSzi O.r. r.,O Q ,
C c� C't a a '
Telephone/Fax —] 6O `? (r)CXn o
Email '1 cp ) S n wart oSS.G.v\v ,u> dl c�
Project Owner F i L>,C _ �-. � C� () o
Owner Address O CASic C�,,�. -O
Telephone/Fax -7 to 0 9706
Email
Project Completion Date
Public Art Fee Amount $
o3 Total Artwork Cost $ CO0, 0 0
Requested Public Art Fee Reimbursement Amount$ 4
II. ARTWORK INFORMATION Program Option: Artwork on site X Donation
Artwork Title -k \ - a a 5 C v. 6�Qr-VVVQ....
Artwork Site V (�rli
Artwork Material s o ti
Artwork Dimensions 5-4-s '/ k .1(91 'r h k c; y\
1
City of Palm Desert—Art in Public Places
Artist(s) Name -2-4cCO `C7 ►. A t)
Address 5c aD �[kMaE4,&c OL` )-cz •,�v.9
cb
Telephone/Fax <5'/ ri -7144 - J.1 LJ
Email
Artwork Installation Date v ) 1 ,
III. ARTWORK DOCUMENTATION
1. Three digital images via email, CD, or flash drive showing the work from at
least two different viewpoints, and one image of the work in detail.
2. One digital image of the artwork identification plaque as installed.
3. A final accounting of expenses incurred in creating the artwork including
copies of the artist's invoices and receipts for all expenditures related to
the artwork.
4. Proof of payment of the public art fee from the Building and Safety
Department.
5. Proof that appropriate permits and certificates were acquired (Proof of
Review Form and Proof of all appropriate inspections).
6. Public Art Agreement.
7. Letter to City Council requesting return of the public art fee for submission
to and approval by City Council.
2
City of Palm Desert, California
Art in Public Places Program
Proof of Review Form
Submit with Form B: Project Completion Notification
Project Name, Address, Phone Number rip Q.c
7 c, r- Ie55 rdroDr. Paly ,,1) PS rl CA 93-=Co o
Contact Name L0 o't'i S
Artwork Title P i AS n rk r in e_Aa_c l i j Q ,f�0,1_r� M c�5 f C,
Building & Safety Department J
Project does not require permit I
Project requires permit
Applicant is required to provide proof of permit with From B: Project Completion
Notification.
99-J/Let-71---c__ 3/7//4-
Building & Safety Dept. Representative Signature Date
Landscape Division Approval `
Project does not impact landscape
Reviewed by Landscape Division •
Comments
Signature Date
This form must be completed by applicant and appropriate City personnel, and included
with Form B once artwork is installed and the return of the public art fee is requested.
mil- • t .- T-
`M �?, ' •
.
'• w ,
•
AF r f . 1
•
tr4„:'' r -
4111
i t-- -k,4,'4..8\ . . - .-7 pir f*,,.
10
,, . .- - , ' 4
.,..,. i r-,. -0. <
i` j r
L Y ¢
:.• -:, ;.....,. . ..;.• ..:•.•........ • . . --411J. 7
Ill-- a
II 9/' t tir„: • .
o 14.
F J
:tap" , . ..._ •_.._ __
', �„' s I
Required from meeting of January 11,2017
(1) Artist Biography for Sculpture at Venus de Fido
Chaiwatt Tohng is the lead designer of bronze sculptures for:
Watanpaniche Bronze Foundry. There are located at 124120-22 Borphat Road; Samphan Thawong,
Bangkok 10100,Thailand.
All of Mr. Tohng's works of art are made using the Lost Wax Casting Process Most detailed works
are cast using the "Lost Wax" process. This is the most precise metal casting technique in
existence, ensuring accurate reproductions of the original sculpture and exquisite detail. All
bronze pieces are cast from a wax model regardless of the original material the model was
sculpted in usually in clay or wax. "Lost wax" casting method was found in thousand years ago.
Even though, modern methods and materials have improved the technique. It is still an extremely
labor intensive and expensive process.
(2) Was art intended to be or is in an edition of 50 or better?
The intention was to be maximum of 50 reproductions, however, this is the fourteenth edition and
no further editions are anticipated.
(3) Edition of this sculpture
As mentioned above, this is number fourteen.
(4) Proof of Installation of plaque
Please see attached picture.
(5) Proof of it being a far superior piece of art than others
Please see attached pictures.
Respectfully submitted on behalf of VENUS DE FIDO.INC.
Lindi Biggi
This bronze fountain is truly, an original piece. This was designed and made in
April, 2005. The design was created by Mr. Jacob Dagan, with the help of a well-
known Thai artist - Mr. Chaiwatt Thungoy. Mr. Chaiwatt started doing bronze
sculptures 40 years ago and most of his works was Thai religious sculptures.
In the year 2000, with the growing demand for French style bronze works, Mr.
Chaiwatt started sculpting monumental old world style fountains. He is also a
popular Thai country singer. Despite his hectic schedules with the bronze works,
he still manages to perform as a singer all over Thailand.
The bronze that you have depicts musician ladies and cupids. Mr. Chaiwatt's love
of music and his fascination to French renaissance was his inspiration in making
the piece. As soon this artwork was completed, we had decided to limit the
production to just 50 pieces. This bronze statue was done using the "lost wax
process"— meaning that only a fountain can be cast at a time. Imagine, it is taking
about a month to complete the whole process,just to make a piece.
As you know, this fountain was cast in Thailand and over there, they are not used
to note the edition number. But in the best of my knowledge, this was the 18th
fountain that we made.
We are hoping this helps you with your concernjs.
Thank you and best regards,
Jacob Dagan
pr'LU 16 04:30p Cargo 7607733086 p.1
i
JOOD INVESTMENT COMPANY
5820 Vanalden Avenue,Tarzana,California 91356
Tel#(818)744-1443;Fax$(855)556-2022
April21, 2016
t
CARGO FURNISHINGS &CONSIGNMENT
71550 Highway 111 `.
Rancho Mirage, California 92270
Dear Patti, •
This is to confirm that I—Jacob Dagaa—designed this fountain(image as below)ten(10)years
ago which I have named as TH-225 CUPIDS ON DOME/LADIES PLAY MUSIC. Its dimension
is 58"x58"x101"H.
iil
r -
t
IF
f i
The mold was created by my Thai artist - MR. CHAIWATT TOHNG. Production of this
fountain was set to 50 pieces.
Thank you and I am hoping this confirmation will help.
Respectfully yours,
Jacob Dagan
Owner
TH-225 Cupids on Dome by Jacob Dagan
Proposed Public Art Component for Venus De Fido
L._.........„1.1. ''.'' '''"-
II ..11011111111111111111111111111111111. •
.777...".1." 1•Ilm, l'4,,, A* : •
..1.ri..Z.4411FI:iv* Ai
.•-
.. • # r'' !'s--:--_:::. —
a.'1- — .:', 4,1,... : •
i
. ...., . .ii,
• . A a : , i
,. 44
-4144 1„
. ., .
..
III '; ••
., ,- • 1.. . .il 7-i
r, i• '. , , . . 1. .
,, .1 •,,., N.. . tile,
. . „ .v.
• 1.' ,.
1 ,.
. . -. .
.. .,.______
• ..1
: , • '. „ k..fr, .fr.. L
.•, 4 _ . -,.
•. 4 -
. • .-__4'.-- - ". ' . teL,fr--,,
-•-•:" . •-fr., . fr ,,,
.. '4 ..
•,o a ;
• _
,:,-.
. .
• • ' -----------
fr. •
- -fr.4,;,5,„ . •e..fr,.. ,4441,'S 7„„,. „.
''414211k''. '. .•''',.,1144:-, • 10 '
• —0,iier.1 . ' '-'0 ',-„i, : •
. 6• '-'''' .V4V4P .1..
\ , .
_. Afr•
' .
' '''''•::- .'. ' .0
At,
-4416111*:: •4 .
.--i '''•-' • -. f :4..L''-':'. iik
.-' . • '' --MC P ,AillitiO . •
, .
6k.
4.. .
:III A a
7714- ..N,, ,• . ,.......r
...$.0•', - , tiv,-,-. •i•
. .-,, • ' '''•- . 'I, - .--''..1: ifar
.11_ 'i - sk, .J., I
-- !T_ "..
, 9Pig. . r il ..
, „,
1:1 - -:- - : itm
....,,Hiz.
.4 ' 4 : P • Ts T.1,4004110011 TIP /P 4111411111111
'A
4. .. ......-.. r.i.tr. A it
- '
. .
.!-•..,
1 4 ..... .
' '. • . ' ''-'74:t.',41,SOUtrarlik7alk •-`,-..--73;...\--_,-..... . ;i! ... . -- .& _ li
, ----
•'. .
..40. p • ..1 --t
...._.-'mp .
..,....,._
. ..,.,.
. . "
. ., : .
....... -f......: \ei . ./ .A ,
..2,.,. ..i.„._...._ . •.. , ..:-1/2,„..,_ , -- - --. if ,IF 4.4
, . ,...
, .
'•i '- c, .., . '• '-..''.,
•,..,,.g....... ,
,
- ....1.. ..:11- -e-a.-
.
_ ... . '
r .... 1 •
ililltf AY
• , -. - ',41111ftimr„,_
;
. 5
.:.... r 1-
'''.'•46:::••.,.. , ilite
_
TA Fle0+61,...F.040444.14;44 a ..._ .4,.. ,...
. •AMIIMINIra' A
A
rig' ,
i
. ,. A..' .7
- ..
' '''''....,.
I ,P"Iti
.. 4 1, Yfr killAr ,
1111° .
.. 4
VENUS
DE FIDO ,r...t.
.-7.--..,•
. ,
,----
,_ ,:.--„.;. ... ... , ..... __ . L , . .i. . ,17._- • .
•i jo,.... i
r I
0 A -0-11,• - ---'`'
"P I' • . -
ill.' '., '. ---•
l'''''..--.r " 7 •ika
. r:. likj! • 1, "111
.. _, ..:•-••'''
'..• - 'a,_411f•..___ .F $ i'..-,.. • e'S\i 1 •90-,.., --_ 2
— -AA. rie l'r•--ii
/, • --.----.
.,..]. i•-•
• (
+a.
1‘...
. ilk
-..- —
.. •. - - IV .4 . • r. ' . _ ''.•,,--/ . .
. ' •IN.
11.* - -. 4.--•--.7 i:
. ' ...,
.:4: '......F-'''. - 11114111 :.• -„At.**". :',
. %. .
,r4 iii:9%.- '-: ‘... ,.. .... ...• ,
, "." 1.,•_., .• . , _0 .........-44., Jr
th4-4.4DxF.a.z.
w
a, '•° ,•
' ti • • 1r4. f rR,'... rk•
r r
• a '+..•al •*�6 it, " •(a•.4•4. . �F
•+ : •. , • _. ,y- ,.r. �� .-. r�am.. . !iw. ip i N.
r E .y* ..7 + . .. ` * ++C_� 'Li •
e.
•. •t ■'7 - - . 7 . Z ••+'w r Tyr• k sti. - ..• •
•i• • :a•t r
..
• r l' .
r -
ar. =r,�.
-
• • 'r_ .3
it • r• -
$ I .
•
. •
'r w , Y
•
• . 'IP •
•
*0 r
S +•r . •• • r •
•
•• i
r . I• '
r r
f. ff r :` :
4r '�' .
-4.111
- t - L r fir.
f w
. 0/I i il P 1 •
Is
' t�
-- r
"1:11/1 J
ms,e ,
PUBLIC ART AGREEMENT
THIS PUBLIC ART AGREEMENT dated this day of
i referred�'�between the City of Palm Desert, a municipal corporation, hereinafter eina her re e ed to as)
� � r
"City' and pp - , hereinafter referred to as "Owner/Developer" is.
made with�e�p� o the foll ln49-/ +� ��`�� �'� " v k�- �'
A. Owner/Developer is the owner of property located in the City of Palm
Desert, County of Riverside, State of California, described as
as shown by Map, Book in the office of the County Recorder, County of Riverside.
The street address of the parcel is:73 L , Palm esert, California.
B. Owner/Developer has heretofore applied for and been permitted to
construct a project for which the establishment of specific public art is required and in
order to comply with the City's requirements, the art should be placed in the project and
the Owner/Developer has continuing indemnification and maintenance responsibilities as
hereinafter set forth.
C. In consideration of the approval process and the installation of such art,
this indemnification and hold harmless agreement executed by the Owner/Developer, the
City proposes to issue all permits for the installation of same.
D. Now, therefore, the City and Owner therefore agree as follows:
NOW.THEREFORE.the parties hereto agree as follows:
1. City has approved the development of the project of Owner/Developer that
includes the installation of artwork in said project, which artwork shall remain the
ownership of Owner/Developer.
2. So long as artwork remains in place, Owner/Developer agrees to
indemnify and hold harmless the City, its officers, agents, employees and representatives
against any and all losses, actions, proceedings and/or claims, including attorneys' fees
and all other costs of defense that were made against the City, its officers, agents,
72500.000(11\7464734.1
7/25/12 1
employees and representatives in connection with or arising from the installation, the
existence or maintenance of such artwork. Owner/Developer's obligations under this
paragraph are currently running with the property shall be binding upon owners,
successors in interest and assigns.
3. The Owner/Developer has submitted to the City clerk a Certificate of
Public Liability Insurance in a form acceptable to the City manager naming the City and
its officials and employees as additional insureds and with limits as specified by the City
manager. The Owner/Developer shall cause the insurance to remain in effect for the life
of the project.
4. Owner/Developer shall be responsible for the maintenance, repair, upkeep
and replacement of such artwork as required by the City. This maintenance responsibility
shall include the responsibility for all damage to the area or the artwork that may result
from construction or the item being installed on said property. The property shall be
maintained in a clean, safe and attractive manner. If City, in its sole discretion.
determines that the artwork is not being maintained in an acceptable condition, City
through its Code Enforcement Department shall notify Owner/Developer in writing that
they have fifteen (15) days to correct said deficiency. If the deficiencies are not corrected
in the manner and within the time set forth, the City may make such corrections at the
expense of the Owner/Developer. Upon completion of said maintenance and/or repair
City shall send Owner/Developer a demand letter by first class mail to reimburse City the
cost of maintenance with repairs within fifteen (15) days. In the event there is a failure to
reimburse the City within such time frame, City shall be entitled to specially assess
Owner/Developer of all costsincurred-in maintaining or repairing such artwork, any cost
of collection, including attorneys' fees and other court costs, and lien the property.
5. This Agreement shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of all
executors, administrators, successors, assigns, agents, employees, attorneys and
representatives of their respective parties hereto. In the event any provision or
disagreement shall be held to be invalid, the same shall not affect any of the terms of the
remainder of the Agreement. In the event of any controversy including the dispute
72500 00001\7464734.I
7/25/12 2
between the parties, arising out of or relating to this Agreement, the prevailing party shall
be entitled to recover from the other party reasonable expenses, attorneys' fees and costs.
6. This Agreement is made in and shall be governed by the laws of the State
of California
7. This Agreement shall be notarized and recorded in the County of
Riverside, State of California.
CITY:
CITY OF PALM DESERT, a municipal corporation
By:
, Mayor
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
By:
CITY ATTORNEY
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
OWNER/OPERATOR:
(
a _
72500.00001\7464734.1
7/25/12 3
, j
ACKNOWLEDGMENT
A notary public or other officer completing this certificate
verifies only the identity of the individual who signed the
document to which this certificate is attached. and not the
truthfulness, accuracy, or validity of that document.
State of California
County of RIVERSIDE
On 02/07/2017 before me, MELANIE R MARTINEZ, NOTARY PUBLIC ,
(here insert name and title of the officer)
personally appeared LINDA C BIGGI AND GENE L BIGGI
who •roved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person hose nam:10
is subscribed to the within instrument and acknowled•ed to me that he/she/fit)
executed the same in his/her403.authorized capacity and that by his/her d D
signatureaPon the instrument the persor s j or the entity upon behalf of which the
perso 1S!.cted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that the
foregoing • . : .raph is true and correct. MELANIE R MARTINEZ
Commission•2126547
WI ESS • • h. d . - • o• '" -al. / z" .."- Notary Public-California
7 , Vr. ^% Riverside County
',Ay Comm. 12 2010
•ice / _ _/01„
Opp-
r _ _
(Seal)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE )
On , 20_ before me, , Notary
Public, personally appeared , who proved to me on the basis of
satisfactory evidence to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument
and acknowledged to me that he executed the same in his authorized capacity, and that by
his signature on the instrument the person, or the entity upon behalf of which the person
acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that
the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Signature: (seal)
STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE )
On , 20 before me, , Notary
Public, personally appeared , who proved to me on the basis of
satisfactory evidence to be the person whose name is subscribed to the within instrument
and acknowledged to me that he executed the same in his authorized capacity, and that by
his signature on the instrument the person, or the entity upon behalf of which the person
acted, executed the instrument.
I certify under PENALTY OF PERJURY under the laws of the State of California that
the foregoing paragraph is true and correct.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Signature: (seal)
72500 00001\7464734.1
7/25/12 4
Glickman, Deborah
From: Thompson, Deb
Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2016 12:52 PM
To: Glickman, Deborah
Subject: FW: Confirmation of Fees-73600 Alessandro Dr
From: Cicchini, Suzanne
Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2016 12:51 PM
To: Thompson, Deb
Subject: RE: Confirmation of Fees-73600 Alessandro Dr
Hi Deb,
believe this is the permit you are inquiring about. Highlighted below is the fee.
BP200I03 CITY OF PALM DESERT 9/07/16
Application inquiry Fees 12:42:50
Application number: 14 00062299
Property • 73600 ALESSANDRO DR PLN1D
Fee
C?ass/Type/Description Trans amt Amt due Struct Permit Insp
A CI *CHILDCARE FAC IMPACT FEE 4895.10 .00
A CT CONSTRUCTION TAX 2175.60 .00
A G1 *GREEN BLDG FEE SB1.473 140.00 .00
A JV JOB VALUATION 875.00 .00
A LH LOW INCOME HOUSING 5439.00 .00
A ME MICROFILM 171.70 .00
P PF PERMIT FEES 7470.44 .00 000000 BC2500
P PF PERMIT FEES 492.29 .00 000000 FP0400
A PO PUBLIC ART/OTHER 17500.00 .00
A 11 *PLAN CHECK FRAMED IMPR 7135.27 .00
More...
Credit fees due: .00
Revenue fees due: .00
Total due: .00
BP200101 CITY OF PALM DESERT 9/07/16
Application inquiry 12:43:55
Application number • 14 00062299
Application status, date . . : APPROVED 9/12/14
Property 73600 ALESSANDRO DR PLMD
Parcel Number • 627-153-018- -
Tract number/Lot number. . . :00000-00-0005/SPORTS CLUB
Zoning • R3 RESIDENTIAL MULTI FAMILY
1
•
Application type • ADD1 *ADDITION TO COMMERCIAL BUILDING
Application date . : 5/07/14
Tenant number, name • REMODEL/ADD'T VENUS FIDO
Master plan number, rev'wd by: CW
Estimated valuation • 3500000
Total square footage • 5439
Public building • NO
Work description, qty . . . .
Pin number • 650750
App ication desc LOWER M
Suzanne Cicchini
Administrative Secretary
Department of Building & Safety
City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, California 92260
(760) 776-6420 Ext. 431
(760) 776-6392 Fax
EMAIL ADDRESS: sicchini@cityofpalmdesert.org
From: Thompson, Deb
Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2016 12:39 PM
To: Cicchini, Suzanne
Subject: FW: Confirmation of Fees
Hi Suzanne:
Can you please let me know what the fees for AIPP were for the address below?
Thank you.
Debbie
From: Glickman, Deborah
Sent: Wednesday, September 07, 2016 12:37 PM
To: Thompson, Deb
Subject: Confirmation of Fees
Hi:
Can you please print out for me the fees paid on 73600 Alessandro Drive? I need it for the AIPP staff report.
Thanks,
Deborah
Deborah Schwartz Glickman
Management Analyst
Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.837.1664
dglickman@cityofpalmdesert.org
www.palmdesertart.org/www.cityofpalmdesert.org
Be Green! Please don't print
this e-mail unless you really need to.
2
--------- CITY OF P ' M OESEPT
Jiro • 73-510 FRED WARING DRIVE
tt
ti*M. RIN ,//'4 PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
f y. y TEL: 760 346-0611
%.. asL-•..�'• info@eityofpalmdesert.ort;
�� 7.�`
September 11, 2014
Ms. Lindi Biggi
Loving All Animals
73550 Alessandro Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
Subject: Venus De Fido Art in Public Places Fee
Dear Ms. Biggi:
The Venus De Fido development qualifies for payment, in the estimated amount of
$17,500, for the City's Art in Public Places fee. This fee can be reimbursed to you if
public art is placed on the site and in accordance with the City's guidelines and
requirements.
City staff will support your request for reimbursement of the Public Art fee subject to
following the City's Art in Public Place Guidelines. The guidelines require that all public
art piece(s) be reviewed and approved by the City's Art in Public Places Commission and
City Council prior to purchase. Once the artwork is installed as approved, with all
appropriate paperwork received and approved by the City Council, then the Public Art
fees can be reimbursed. The value of the art piece will need to be equal to, or greater
than, the fee being applied to your project. Attached is a copy of the City's Art in Public
Places Guidelines. Please do not hesitate to contact the City's Public Art Division at
(760) 346-0611 with any questions about the program.
c ly,
JOHN M. WOHLMUTH
CITY MANAGER
i.
cc: Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development
Deborah Schwartz Glickman, Management Analyst
Eric Ceja, Associate Planner
Ct',b,,DW q(,(LLE 1011
Art in Public Places Minutes January 11 , 2017
Mr. Vuksic reported that final working drawings were
approved for Grafton's located on El Paseo west of Lupine.
Final working drawings for Tower Market on Highway 111
were approved and construction has begun.
The architectural design for Jared Jewelers was approved.
Design drawings for Desert Business Club on the frontage
road on the north side of Highway 111 west of San Pablo,
were not approved.
VI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
NONE
VII. NEW BUSINESS
A. ELECTION OF A CHAIRPERSON AND VICE
CHAIRPERSON FOR 2017
Commissioner Darby moved to reelect Chairperson
Boren as Chairperson and Commissioner Miller as Vice
Chairperson for 2017. Motion was seconded by Commissioner
Campbell and carried 5-0-0 with Boren, Campbell, Darby,
Hough, and Miller voting AYE.
B. CONSIDERATION OF ARTISTS(S) TO BE INCLUDED IN
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT'S ARTIST REGISTRY
Artists Carin Mincemoyer, Christopher Owen Nelson, Eric
Powell, Mark Yale Harris, Susan Stamm Evans, Won Choi,
and Zenos Frudakis applied to be included in the City of
Palm Desert's Artist Registry.
Commissioner Campbell moved to accept artists Carin
Mincemoyer, Christopher Owen Nelson, Mark Yale Harris,
Susan Stamm Evans, Won Choi, and Zenos Frudakis in the
City of Palm Desert's Artist Registry and continue Eric
Powell's proposal to the meeting of February 8, 2017. Motion
was seconded by Commissioner Hough and carried 5-0-0 with
Boren, Campbell, Darby, Hough, and Miller voting AYE.
C. CONSIDERATION TO GRANT AN EXCEPTION TO THE
PREAPPROVED POLICY FOR PUBLIC ART AND
RECOMMEND APPROVAL OF TH-225 CUPIDS ON
3
Art in Public Places Minutes January 11 , 2017
DOME/LADIES PLAYING MUSIC BY JACOB DAGAN AS
THE PUBLIC ART COMPONENT FOR 73600
ALESSANDRO DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA IN
REGARDS TO THE RETURN OF ART IN PUBLIC PLACES
FEES TO THE APPLICANT
Ms. Glickman explained to the Commission members that
this item was being added to the agenda due to the
applicant's requesting staff to bring it before the
Commission. Ms. Glickman stated that Venus de Fido
opened on July 10, 2016, and the artwork had been installed
without the applicant's going through the required process
for approval of the public art in order to receive the return of
the public art fee. The applicant is asking that the policy for
preapproval of the installed artwork be waived and the public
art fee returned. The application for return of fees and
images of the artwork were circulated to the Commission.
Ms. Glickman stated that the Commission needed to be
aware of the fact that the applicant did not abide by the
City's required policy of getting initial approval of the
proposed artwork from the Commission and City Council in
order to receive the return of the public art fee once the
artwork has been installed. Upon question from the
Commission members, Ms. Glickman reviewed with the
Commission and audience members the application process
that applicants must follow in order for their public art fee to
be returned. The process is as follows:
Applicant meets with staff regarding the potential artwork for
the project;
Applicant submits a Developer Application to staff;
A Staff report is prepared for the Art in Public Places
Commission's review and recommendation to City Council;
City Council reviews and approves project;
Developer installs artwork then requests return of public art
fee.
Ms. Glickman stated that the paperwork that was provided
by the applicant did not include the required information on
the artist — a resume, biography, or CV. Additionally, the
invoice for the sculpture stated that the artwork is one of 50,
which implies that it is in an edition of 50, but is not clear on
this point. The City's policy reads that artwork needs to be in
editions of artworks are to be 20 or less. Commissioner
Hough asked the applicant to provide the Commission with
information on the artist as well as a clarification of the
4
Art in Public Places Minutes January 11, 2017
question about whether or not this is part of an edition of 50
and if so, what number in the edition it is.
Ms. Biggi addressed the Commission and asked that the
Commission grant her a waiver of the preapproval
requirement. Ms. Biggi stated that she was busy during the
construction of the building and neglected to complete the
City's required paperwork but was aware of the policy
regarding the return of the public art fee. She added that the
installed artwork is quite beautiful and she feels that it stands
up aesthetically to any artwork in Palm Desert.
After much discussion it was the concurrence of the
Commission to continue the item to allow the applicant to
supply the Commission information on the artist and what
edition number the installed artwork is.
Upon Motion by Commissioner Darby, the Consideration
to Grant an Exception to the Preapproved Policy for Public Art
in Regards to the Return of the Public Art Fee to the Applicant
will be continued to a future meeting to allow the applicant to
supply the Commission information on the artist and what
edition number the installed artwork is. Motion was seconded
by Commissioner Hough and carried 5-0-0 with Boren,
Campbell, Darby, Hough, and Miller voting AYE.
VIII. CONTINUED BUSINESS
NONE
IX. OLD BUSINESS
NONE
X. PROJECT STATUS REPORTS
A. Palm Desert Community Gallery
Ms. Glickman reported that the new exhibition, Art on the
Edge, will open on January 19 with the opening reception on
Monday, January 23 at 5:30 p.m.
Ms. Glickman noted that the Call for Artists for the gallery
season is out with applications due on February 1 . The
proposals will be presented to the Commission at its
February 8 meeting.
5
Art in Public Places Minutes February 8, 2017
have enough artwork for a solo show, that would make up
four exhibitions, as well as the Student Art and Essay
Contest, for the 2017/2018 season.
Commissioner Hough moved to accept Gary Rosenblum
and Grant McMillan; Kathleen Scoggin and Alicia Siegler; Ron
Dalberg, and Juan-Manuel Alonso as the artists who will
exhibit in the Palm Desert Community Gallery for the
2017/2018 season. Motion was seconded by Commissioner
Adney and carried 6-0-0 with Adney, Boren, Campbell, Darby,
Hough, and Miller voting AYE.
B. CONSIDERATION OF ARTISTS(S) TO BE INCLUDED IN
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT'S ARTIST REGISTRY
Ms. Glickman stated that artist Eric Powell did not resubmit
images to be included in the Artist Registry. No other artists
submitted images so the item was pulled and a motion was
not required.
C. CONSIDERATION TO GRANT AN EXCEPTION TO THE
PREAPPROVED POLICY FOR PUBLIC ART FOR TH-225
CUPIDS ON DOME/LADIES PLAYING MUSIC BY JACOB
DAGAN AS THE PUBLIC ART COMPONENT FOR 73600
ALESSANDRO DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA IN
REGARDS TO THE RETURN OF ART IN PUBLIC PLACES
FEES TO THE APPLICANT (Continued from the meeting of
January 11, 2017)
Ms. Glickman reminded the Commissioners that at its Art in
Public Places Commission meeting of January 11 , 2017, the
Commission continued the above stated item requesting that
the applicant provide the Commission information on the
artist, information as to the size of the edition this sculpture
is a part of, and what edition number the installed artwork is.
Ms. Glickman reminded the Commissioners that the City's
policy requires that in order for artwork to be eligible for
reimbursement of Art in Public Places fees, it needs to be
part of an edition of 20 or less. Ms. Glickman referred to the
paperwork that the applicant supplied to staff which states
that the installed sculpture is number 14 in a potential edition
of 50, although the paperwork submitted by the applicant
states that the artist is not clear as to if all 50 in the edition
will be produced. Commissioner Hough noted that in most
cases the edition number will be included on the artwork.
There were no images provided that indicated the edition
4
Art in Public Places Minutes February 8, 2017
number. The paperwork that was provided by the applicant
regarding information on the artist was not specific to the
artist but explained the lost wax casting process that the
fabricator used to create the sculpture. Ms. Glickman stated
that she did try to look up the name of the artist that was
provided by the applicant but did not find any information on
the Internet. The Commission is being asked to decide if it
wants to waive all of the above discussed discrepancies.
She noted that if the Commission recommends waiving the
discrepancies, it could set a precedent for future projects.
This concern was echoed by other Commissioners. If the
Commission denies the request, the artwork does not need
to be removed; it only means that the applicant will not be
refunded the public art fee. Ms. Glickman noted that at its
January 11, 2017 meeting, the applicant stated that she was
aware of the City's requirements but did not fulfill them. Staff
referred to a letter from two years ago written to the
applicant by the former City Manager explaining the steps
that are required in order for a developer to receive a refund
for the public art fee artwork that has been installed at
their property. Commissioner Darby stated that once a
procedure is broken, precedence is set and in any
organization procedures need to be maintained or its
credibility is lost. Commissioner Hough stated that there
would be no reason to have a Commission if the policies
were not required to be followed. The City informed the
applicant of the procedures, she understood, and placed the
artwork in front of the building. She believes an exception
should not be made.
Upon Motion by Commissioner Hough, it was
recommended to deny the request to allow the exception to
the TH-225 Cupids on Dome/Ladies Playing Music by Jacob
Dagan due to the applicant's not following the standard
procedures set forth by the City for the return of the public art
fee. Motion was seconded by Commissioner Miller and carried
6-0-0 with Adney, Boren, Campbell, Darby, Hough, and Miller
voting AYE.
It was noted that the subject item was denied due to the
applicant not providing the Commission with the items that
were addressed and requested at the meeting of January
11 , 2017; specifically, the request of information on the artist
and the information of the edition number was still unclear.
5
1
Art in Public Places Minutes February 8, 2017
Commissioner Miller reiterated that the Commission
determined that the procedures set forth are to be respected
by all applicants and did not find that the procedures had
been followed by the applicant.
VIII. CONTINUED BUSINESS
NONE
IX. OLD BUSINESS
NONE
X. PROJECT STATUS REPORTS
A. Palm Desert Community Gallery
Ms. Glickman reported that Art on the Edge is on exhibit in
the Palm Desert Community Gallery. The opening reception
was well attended. She thanked the Commission members
who attended the opening. The next show will be the
Student Art and Essay Contest. Entries are due March 30.
The Award Ceremony is Wednesday, May 3 at 6:30 in the
Council Chamber.
B. Docent Tours
There were twenty one people present at the Saturday,
February 4 tour of the Civic Center Park.
Three new docents have been trained and are ready to give
tours.
C. Public Art Documentary Film Series
Ms. Glickman stated that the film Stealing Klimt held on
January 19 was well attended. Pilchuck: Dance with Fire will
screen on February 16. Patrick Blythe will speak after the
film.
D. First Weekend
Ms. Glickman reported that the Swing N Hops event on
February 4 was successful and well attended (as previously
noted).
6
City of Palm Desert
ART IN PUBLIC PLACES PROGRAM GUIDELINES
I. PROGRAM OVERVIEW
Palm Desert is a new and contemporary city. Because a firm commitment
exists to preserve the area's unique character and to balance
development with artistic enhancement, Palm Desert has become a
mecca for the flourishing recreation, resort, housing, and retail industries.
Art has played an important role in the creation of character and image in
the City of Palm Desert. The Art In Public Places Program provides for
the integration of artworks throughout the City in public and private
development to enrich the built and social environment.
Palm Desert was the first city in Riverside County to create a public art
program. In 1986, the City Council adopted an ordinance requiring
Developers to place art or pay a fee to the Art In Public Places Fund for
each new structure they build. These funds are used to purchase art for
our community. The goals of the Public Art Program are to create an
artistic harmony between the buildings, landscaping, and open spaces as
well as to serve the people of the community and visitors by bringing art
into daily life. The Art In Public Places Commission (AIPP) serves as a
technical advisory committee to Council, and makes the initial selection
and recommendation of artists and artworks for public and private
projects.
II. WHY PUBLIC ART?
In its first twenty-five years, Palm Desert has taken the lead nationally in
ensuring that its growth respects and complements the natural, built, and
social landscape. Public art is one method of ensuring that the visual
experience of the City is enriching and engaging. Increasingly, cities and
major developments across North America, Asia, and Europe are
discovering the power of art in creating opportunities for cultural tourism,
economic development, and image building.
III. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES REQUIREMENTS
Through its Public Art Ordinance, the City requires that its own Capital
Improvement Projects (CIP), including the City Redevelopment Agency
(RDA), and private development projects contribute a percentage of the
overall project construction budget (excluding land costs) to enhancing the
visual appeal of the project and city. An Art In Public Places Fund was
established as a depository for public art fees paid by City departments
and private developers to secure a building permit from the City of Palm
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
Desert. For the private sector, this fee may be refunded if an artwork has
been either placed on the development site or donated to the City. The
fee remains in the Art In Public Places Fund for the discretionary use of
the City should the Developer elect not to participate in the program. City
generated funds are typically tied to the construction site, but unspent
project funds may be pooled with other unspent funds and spent off site
upon conclusion of the project.
A. Program Requirements
No permanent or temporary Certificate of Occupancy shall be
issued for any structure in the City unless the Art In Public Places
requirements have been satisfied. Upon program completion and
approval by the City, the Art In Public Places fee will be returned to
the developer. Artwork located on private property shall remain the
property of the owner for the life of the Certificate of Occupancy.
Ownership of the work will transfer to any successive owner of the
property. Once the artwork has been accepted by the City and
installed it cannot be removed or altered without specific written
approval of the Art In Public Places Commission. Private sector
projects subject to compliance are:
• All individual residential units whose building valuation permit is
in excess of one hundred thousand dollars ($100,000) which is
assessed an amount equal to one quarter of one percent (1/4%)
for that portion in excess of one hundred thousand dollars.
• All other residential development, including two or more single-
family dwellings being built concurrently in the same tract by the
same owner or contractor which is assessed an amount equal
to one quarter of one percent (1/4%) of the total building
valuation.
• All commercial development which is assessed an amount
equal to one half of one percent (1/2%) of the total building
valuation, excluding land acquisition and off-site improvement
costs.
The total building valuation is computed by using the latest Building
Valuation Data as set forth by the International Conference of
Building Officials (ICBO).
Revised 7/11 2
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
B. Developer Options
Several options are available to the private developer to meet the
City's art requirement. They are:
1. Artwork On Site
Upon assessment of the public art fee, the Developer may
elect to site a permanent public artwork as part of the
development project. Using this option, the Developer may
• Utilize the City's artist slide registry to find artists;
• Select the artist directly;
• Hire a professional consultant to select artists to
commission site-specific, architecturally integrated
artworks;
• Purchase artworks for permanent installation.
Artworks may be
• Singular, discrete objects (sculpture);
• Artist designed amenities (streetscapes, paving
treatments, lighting standards and treatments, benches,
wayfinders, architecturally integrated water features,
artist designed landscape treatments or other artist
designed amenities or aesthetic treatments).
• Artworks must be located outside in publicly accessible
locations.
• If artwork is part of a limited edition series, the series
must be no larger than 20.
Upon completion and installation of the work on site, a
Certificate of Occupancy will be issued and the art fee will be
returned to the Developer.
The Artwork On Site approach allows the Developer to:
• Maximize and return the outlay of art fees by bringing a
signature artwork to the development as an identifying
and prestige feature;
• Increase the scope of work of a particular project or
feature within the development by using art allocations to
supplement and enhance the budget (for example,
bringing an artist in to design an already budgeted water
or entry feature);
Revised 7/11 3
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
• Keep the artwork on site.
2. Art Donated to the City of Palm Desert
Upon assessment of the public art fee, the Developer may
elect to purchase an existing artwork or commission an
original artwork for donation as a gift to the City of Palm
Desert's public art collection. Donations to the City are
reviewed by the Art In Public Places Commission and City
Council to determine the aesthetic quality of the donation,
the work's maintenance requirements and the
appropriateness of the donation to the overall goals of the
Art In Public Places Commission.
This approach allows the Developer to:
• By-pass the commission or purchase and subsequent
installation of the artwork on the property.
• Increase public awareness of the Developer and
development as civic benefactors.
3. Fees In Lieu of Artwork On Site
Upon assessment of the public art fee, the Developer may
elect to pay the fee to the Art In Public Places Fund with no
intention of placing artwork on site or donating a work of art
to the City. Funds are subsequently used by the City of
Palm Desert and Art In Public Places Commission on
publicly sited projects of their choosing.
This approach allows the Developer to:
• By-pass completely the public art process.
IV. SITE CRITERIA FOR DEVELOPERS
A. Eligible Public Art Location
• Such facilities include commercial or residential buildings and adjoining
plazas, parks, sidewalks, traffic islands, public buildings, power stations, etc.
• Spaces may only be exterior.
Revised 7/11 4
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
• Locations can include surface treatments of buildings, retaining walls, and
bridges. The definition of"location" can also be expanded by an artist's ability
to extend the possibilities for public art, and would then be determined on a
case-by-case basis.
• Projects can also include artist-designed features that might otherwise be
provided by commercial sources, such as gates, water fountains, tile and
surface materials, doors, furniture, clocks, lighting fixtures, railings, signage,
etc.
B. Eligible Public Art Components
On-Site Art in Public Places
The Art in Public Places Program is receptive to the broadest definitions of art
and encourages imaginative interpretations of media. The possible media and
materials, which might be used for permanent or temporary installation,
decorative or functional purpose, include:
• Sculpture: Free standing, wall supported or suspended; kinetic, electronic,
etc., in any material or combination of materials.
• Painted and mosaic murals.
• Earthworks, fiberworks, neon, glass, mosaics, photographs, prints,
calligraphy, any combination of forms of media including sound, film,
holographic and video systems, hybrids of any media and new genres.
• Standardized fixtures such as gates, streetlights, signage, etc., may be
contracted to artists for unique or limited editions.
V. BUDGETARY GUIDELINES FOR DEVELOPERS
A. Eligible Costs
All artworks created by artists are considered eligible expenses for the Art
in Public Places Program as well as the following:
• Structures, which enable the display of artwork(s).
• Artists' budgets for projects, which will be expected to cover:
• Professional fees for the artist(s).
• Labor of assistants, materials, and contracted services required of
the production and installation of the work of art.
Revised 7/11 5
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
• Any required permit or certificate fees.
• Business and legal costs directly related to the project.
• Studio and operating costs.
• Communication and other indirect costs (insurance, utilities).
• Travel expenses of the artist for site visitation and research.
• Transportation of the work of art to the site.
• Preparation of site to receive artwork.
• Installation of the completed work of art.
• Documentation (color slides and black and white photographs) of
the artwork.
B. Ineligible Costs
• Directional elements such as supergraphics, signage, or color-coding
except where these elements are integral parts of the original work of
art.
• "Art objects" which are mass-produced of standard design such as
playground equipment, fountains, or statuary objects.
• Reproductions, by mechanical or other means, of original works of art,
except in cases of film, video, photography, printmaking or other media
arts.
• Decorative, ornamental, or functional elements that are designed by
the building architect as opposed to an artist commissioned for this
purpose.
• Landscape architecture and landscape gardening except where these
elements are designed by the artist and/or are an integral part of the
work of art by the artist.
• Services or utilities necessary to operate or maintain the artwork over
time.
VI. ART IN PUBLIC PLACES ART SELECTION GUIDELINES
• Will the art component be concentrated in one area or distributed throughout
the public spaces?
• Is the proposed project/program a collaborative effort? If so, specify the
participants, responsibilities, and proposed arts budget allocation to non-arts
components, if applicable.
Revised 7/11 6
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
• How will the art component function within the whole development? Activate
a space? Provide a landmark? Serve a function (gateway, seating, etc.)?
• Who are the primary and secondary audiences for the artwork or cultural
program (pedestrians, building users, tourists, automobile traffic, etc.)?
• How has the anticipated audience influenced your choice of artwork?
• If applicable, describe plans for artwork to conform to necessary safety and
functional requirements. Who will assist on these requirements?
• Describe plans for fabrication and installation of the artwork.
• Describe needs and plans for ongoing maintenance or program development
responsibilities.
• Please submit 50 percent schematic design, with model, if appropriate.
VII. PRIVATE OWNERSHIP AND MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS
A. Maintenance
All privately sited artworks shall remain the property of the owner
for the life of the Certificate of Occupancy. Title and ownership of
the artwork shall transfer in whole or in part to any successor in
interest of the structure. The owner of the artwork shall provide all
maintenance necessary to preserve the work in good condition. In
addition, the owner of artwork shall maintain in full force and effect
fire and extended insurance coverage, including but not limited to
vandalism coverage, in a minimum amount of the purchase price of
said artwork. Failure to maintain the artwork will make the owner
subject to possible liens against the real property.
B. Removal or Alteration of the Work
Public art installed onto or integrated into a private construction
project shall not be removed or altered without the approval of the
City Council. If the art is knowingly removed or altered without prior
approval from the Art In Public Places Commission, the Certificate
of Occupancy may be revoked by City Council upon due notice. In
addition, if artwork is removed by the property owner without the
approval of the Art In Public Places Commission, the owner shall
contribute funds equal to the original public art fees, or replace the
work with another of equal value, as approved by the City. If this
Revised 7/11 7
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
requirement is not met, the Certificate of Occupancy may be
revoked.
VIII. SITE SELECTION
General criteria for the selection of an art site include:
A. Location, Installation and Identification
• Artworks for public and private projects must be located in an
exterior area, which is accessible to the public at all times.
• Installation of the artwork should be planned to complement the
work and allow for unrestrained viewing from a variety of
vantage points.
• Potential obstruction of growing trees, shrubbery, or future
construction should be taken into account.
• The artwork shall be a permanent, fixed asset to the property.
Each artwork shall be identified by a plaque stating the artist's
name, artwork title, and date the artwork was dedicated. The
plaque will be placed in an appropriate location near the artwork
that can be easily accessed by pedestrians.
B. Public Placement
• Artwork sites for public projects are selected for its aesthetic
possibilities as recommended by the AIPP Commission or City
Council.
• Sites may include urban gateways, vistas, public spaces and
plazas or other exterior, publicly accessible places.
• Particular attention will be given to providing artwork at major
intersections, corridors and entrances to the City of Palm
Desert.
• Artwork sites for City Capital Improvement Projects including
RDA or private donations may include public facilities such as
the Civic Center, Senior Center, schools, parks and recreation
buildings or other sites as appropriate.
Revised 7/11 8
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
C. Private Placement
• On-Site: The artwork shall be displayed in one or more of the
following locations on the site of the commercial structure:
o Architecturally integrated into the structure or hardscape.
o Placed as a discrete object in any exterior location open
and available to the general public, in a manner, which
complements the artwork and site.
• Off-Site: At the request of the applicant for a Certificate of
Occupancy, the artwork may be located on a site other than that
of the development provided, however, that the site is selected
by the Art In Public Places Commission and approved by the
City Council.
IX. ARTWORK SELECTION
A. Selection Criteria for Artists
General criteria for the Art In Public Places Commission or
developer to consider in selecting artists for public or private
projects should include:
1. The aesthetic and technical quality and originality of the
artist's previous work as evidenced by slides and other
supporting materials;
2. The artist's previous experience with public art projects of a
similar scale and scope;
3. The artist's demonstrated ability to execute and complete a
project in a timely and professional manner;
4. The artist's ability to communicate ideas verbally and
visually, and work effectively in a team environment;
5. The appropriateness of the artist's proposal to the particular
project and its probability of successful completion;
6. A wide variety of nationally known artists as well as local
artists.
Revised 7/11 9
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
B. Selection Criteria for Artwork
General criteria for the Commission or Developer to consider in
selecting artwork for public or private projects should include:
1. Quality: artwork demonstrates originality, artistic excellence,
and quality;
2. Media: all visual forms and media may be considered,
subject to the selection jury or the Art In Public Places
Commission;
3. Style: artworks of all schools, styles, and tastes should be
considered;
4. Response to Site: artworks and art places should be
appropriate in scale, material, form, content, and value for
the immediate, general, social, and physical environments
with which they are to relate;
5. Team Approach: encourage the early involvement of the
artist as a member of the project design team of architect,
engineer, landscape architect, etc.;
6. Durability: consideration should be given to structural and
surface integrity, permanence, and protection against theft,
vandalism, weathering, excessive maintenance and repair
costs;
7. Elements of Design: consider that public art, in addition to
meeting aesthetic requirements, may also serve to establish
focal points, terminate areas, modify, enhance, or define
specific spaces or establish identity;
8. Public Liability: artworks and art places should be examined
for unsafe conditions or factors that may bear on public
liability;
9. Diversity: strive for diversity of style, scale, media, artists,
community values, forms of expression, and equitable
distribution of artworks throughout the City.
C. Selection Methods
Artworks for public and private projects may be selected in a variety
of methods. In addition to advertising of projects, the Art In Public
Places Artist Registry is a resource for the review and direct
selection of an artist or artwork. Selection methods may include but
are not limited to:
1. Open Competition: The project is advertised locally,
regionally, nationally or internationally and through the AIPP
artist data bank. Interested artists may submit materials for
review, which include slides, letter of interest, resume and
Revised 7/11 10
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
supplementary materials such as reviews, articles, books or
brochures.
2. Limited Invitational: A selected number of artists are invited
to submit materials for review. Artists finalists may be
selected to submit detailed models for the project for which
they will be paid a fee.
3. Invitation: One artist is invited to submit materials for review,
and may be commissioned to create a detailed proposal.
4. Direct purchase: An existing work is purchased for a specific
project.
Selection of the artwork for City sponsored projects is
subject to the artist(s) providing materials and completion
bond, as well as completing a contract as set forth by the
City Attorney.
X. REVIEW AND APPROVAL PROCESS
A. Art In Public Places Commission
The Art In Public Places Commission serves in an advisory
capacity providing recommendations for art placement to the City
Council.
Membership of the AIPP Commission is made up of nine arts
professionals who are residents of Palm Desert. Arts professionals
for these purposes are defined as: curators, visual artists, art
critics, art historians, art collectors, architects, landscape architects,
art educators and other persons with visual arts backgrounds
respected in their field and willing to engage effectively in a panel
process. Commission appointments shall be made by City Council
who may on occasion appoint a non-resident visual art professional
whose expertise is required for the program.
The Architectural Review Commission and the Planning
Commission shall each appoint one member to serve as non-voting
liaison to AIPP. These members are responsible for providing
follow-up to both commissions/committees on the status of current
projects.
A City Council liaison appointed by the Mayor and a Staff liaison
appointed by the City Manager serve as ex-officio members to the
Commission.
Revised 7/11 11
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
Membership appointments will be limited in order to (1) promote
equal opportunity to the membership to serve in a leadership role;
(2) bring a diverse aesthetic; (3) bring diverse ethnic and cultural
perspectives to the program; (4) most precisely match the project's
program to the expertise of the panelist.
B. AIPP Responsibilities
The AIPP is charged with the responsibility to:
1. Serve as the selection panel for all City initiated public art
projects;
2. Serve as the first review body for all privately initiated public
art projects;
3. Provide technical and aesthetic recommendations for all
public and private public art projects for City Council;
4. Review artist applications for participation in the Art In Public
Places Artist Registry;
5. Create and recommend cultural policy for the visual arts for
the City of Palm Desert.
XI. ARTIST SELECTION METHODS
A. City of Palm Desert Public Process
1. Artists solicited (solicitation process dependent upon
selection method as determined by AIPP);
2. Materials reviewed by AIPP, finalists shortlisted (as
appropriate) with selection forwarded as recommendation for
commission or purchase to the City Council;
3. Review by City Council with direction to staff to proceed with
commission contract if approved;
4. City Council determination of final acceptance upon project
completion.
Revised 7/11 12
City of Palm Desert
Art In Public Places Program Guidelines
B. Private Development Process
1. Public Art Developers Guide received upon contact with
Planning Department;
2. Art In Public Places Program contacted;
3. Public Art fees paid to receive building permit;
4. Pre-Design consultation with City Public Arts Manager;
5. Artwork site/artwork selected;
6. Art In Public Places application submitted;
7. City review/approvals of artwork site and artwork (AIPP and
City Council);
8. Artist/artwork commissioned/donated/purchased;
9. Artwork installed, including any required certificates or
permits;
10. City notified of completion/Certificate of Occupancy
application;
11. Application for refund of fees.
Revised 7/11 13
Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: City of Palm Desert:Website Contact Us Form Submission
Rachelle Klassen
City Clerk
Ph: 760.346.0611 Direct: 760.776.6304
rklassen@cityofpalmdesert.org
From: Lindi Biggi [mailto:lindi@lovingallanimals.org]
Sent:Thursday, March 16, 2017 11:40 AM
To: Emily Mclean<emimclean@gmail.com>; Glickman, Deborah <dglickman@citvofpalmdesert.org>
Cc:Aylaian, Lauri<lavlaian@citvofpalmdesert.org>; CityhallMail<Citvhall(c@citvofpalmdesert.org>; Kathleen Kelly
(Kellv4pd@gmail.com)<Kellv4pd@gmail.com>; Gina Nestande<gnestande@aol.com>
Subject: RE: City of Palm Desert: Website Contact Us Form Submission
Emily Mclean and Deborah Glickman
I thank you both for your time and effort spent on my problem with the Venus De Fido, ART IN PUBLIC PLACES issues.
As Deborah indicated in her first paragraph, I could have just given the City$17,500.00, ignored the whole
ART ordinance and considered that money as part of the cost of obtaining a Building Permit in Palm Desert
California. But why would I? I wanted to buy a building permit, the huge sums of money I was paying should cover the
cost of a building permit? As Deborah says, most developers know they can't beat City Hall so they just pay this
unrelated fee (plus a bunch of other ones), add the extra cost to the cost of the project and the end-consumer pays for
the unreasonable fees when they rent or buy the end product.
Her second paragraph alludes to the choice I made. From the very beginning, I knew I wanted the whole project to be a
work of ART that the whole community could enjoy, inside and outside. I couldn't wait to show the City and the Citizens
what a beautiful building would take place of the homeless camp that stood there prior to our buying the property. I
really thought they would share in my pride and joy. Boy was I wrong.
We had over eight local artists working on murals inside, have the place full of famous framed Art works and sculptures
and if one would be honest, there is seven million dollars of beauty that has been added to our community. Her
statement of"works in cooperation with the City and its Art in Public Places Commission—before purchasing and
installing their artwork." The impossible, undesirable, over burdensome, unreasonable six words of that sentence have
been bolded above. (I have recently learned that my unforgivable sin seems to be that I purchased the art without prior
approval of a group of strangers that have never seen the construction project, nor the work of ART)
Her third paragraph is somewhat misleading as she fails to mention that the City would love to have you ignore all the
requirements of their burdensome ordinance, but that does not relieve you of the obligation of paying them the
money. In other words, I can leave my work of Art where it is, but I also leave my$17,500.00 where it is with the
City. To me, that feels like submitting to blackmail.
Her last paragraph is also misleading as the City holds the$17,500.00 deposit I gave them in 2014 which was demanded
if I wanted a building permit, plus I paid cash for the bronze fountain when I bought it, thus I have purchased it twice and
the City has zero investment. The ART IN PUBLIC PLACES COMMISSION has recommended that City Council decline my
1
request for reimbursement of my$17,500.00 and that will be finally decided at the Council Meeting at City Hall, on
March 23rd at 4:00 pm.
I am truly sickened that the committee seems to have lost focus of their mission of adding beauty to this town and
instead focus on forcing people to fold in fear of their power.
Lindi Biggi
Proud to be American and will fight for my constitution rights...
"When government fears the people, there is liberty.
When people fear the government, there is tyranny.
(s) Thomas Jefferson
From: Emily Mclean [mailto:emimclean@ gmail.com]
Sent:Tuesday, March 14, 2017 1:39 PM
To: IindiPlindibiggi.com
Subject: Fwd:City of Palm Desert: Website Contact Us Form Submission
Sent from my iPad
Begin forwarded message:
From: <dglickman@cityofpalmdesert.org>
Date: March 13, 2017 at 12:34:08 PM PDT
To: <Emjmclean@gmail.com>
Subject: FW: City of Palm Desert: Website Contact Us Form Submission
Dear Ms. Mclean:
Thank you for reaching out to the City of Palm Desert regarding its Public Art Program.
Palm Desert's Art in Public Places program was established in 1976 and the
development fee that it supports was put in place 31 years ago. For its Public Art
Program, the City requires that a fee based on a percentage of construction valuation,
ranging from '/z% to 1% depending on the project type, be paid by all developers. A
developer can simply pay the AIPP fee along with the development impact fees charged
by the City (many developers choose this) or opt to place an artwork at their location.
A developer who would opts to place an artwork at their location works in cooperation
with the City and its Art in Public Places Commission before purchasing and installing
their artwork, and then seeks reimbursement of the fee after the approved art is
installed. This process has also been done successfully for many projects in Palm
Desert through the years.
In addition to the artwork that is placed through the above process, the City welcomes
developers and building owners to install artwork at their location not utilizing the Public
2
Art fee. In these cases, the City neither oversees nor restricts the placement of artwork
on private property.
In the case of Venus de Fido, the City is not requiring that the developer pay the City for
the sculpture to be placed at the building site, nor is it asking for the artwork to be
removed. The developer's request for reimbursement of the Public Art fee is still being
reviewed by the City Council, who will make the final decision on the reimbursement of
the Public Art fee.
Please let me know if I can answer any further questions for you.
Sincerely,
Deborah Glickman
Management Analyst
From: webmaster@acityofoalmdesert.orq [mailto:webmaster(&cityofpalmdesert.orq]
Sent: Saturday, March 11, 2017 12:24 PM
To: Information Mail
Subject: City of Palm Desert: Website Contact Us Form Submission
A new entry to a form/survey has been submitted.
Form Name: Contact Us
Date&Time: 03/11/2017 12:23 PM
Response#: 388
Submitter ID: 2907
IP address: 67.49.69.123
Time to complete: 17 min., 27 sec.
Survey Details
Page 1
Your Contact Information
First Name Emily Last Name Mclean
Email Address Emimclean@gmail.com Phone Number 760-902-1278
Address 73140 shadow Mtn dr Address 2 Ca
City Palm desert State California
ZIP Code 92260
I am a:
(o) Palm Desert Resident
Comments or Concerns:
It's hard to believe that you would charge Venus de Fido for having a piece a art(a fountain)in front of their building and
3
deam it as something you don't like or that is not your liking.This is someone who has contributed so much to our communi
Shame on you.
Thank you,
City of Palm Desert
This is an automated message generated by the Vision Content Management Systemn'. Please do not reply
directly to this email.
4
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 2:50 PM
To: Massen, Rachek,
Subject: FW: Venus De Fido
From: Stewart Weiner fmailto:radioevesstewart(a omail.com]
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 2:36 PM
To: CityhallMail
Subject: Venus De Fido
Retailers need Palm Desert and Palm Desert needs happy retailers. Maybe,
rather than the city's spending money on regulations like this, enforcing it
blindly and discouraging businesses, perhaps more attention could be paid to
the many struggling retailers along the Frontage Road that runs from
Monterey east -yard.
Right now these stores and businesses arc invisible. Some of it is due to the
rushed pace of the traffic along 111. Additionally, the parking opportunities
for the merchants seem unclear to shoppers. New cohesive signage, medians'
removal and traffic enforcement could offer a few solutions until the city's
new plan takes effect.
Thanks for listening,
Stewart Weiner
Producer: hotmenshavinr,c(nn
Publisher: radiocyes.nct
Creator: Ph\ \ ti ti,t ph) stu.tumblcr.corn
Blower: thcchcapreportcr.wordpress.corn
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 4:08 PM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: Regarding sculpture of ViVA LA FIDO
From: Da rmafrecKaaol.com fmailto:Darmafred(aol.coml
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 3:46 PM
To: CityhallMail
Subject: Regarding sculpture of ViVA LA FIDO
Shame, shame on you -----Linda Biggi's property is not on El Paseo and adds so much to our communtiy....She has
never built anything in poor taste Darlene Mour.
1
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 10:12 AM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: [SPAM] - City of Palm Desert regulations
Attachments: Statue jpg
From: Janet McAfee [mailto:imcafee7Caverizon.net]
Sent: Monday, March 20, 2017 5:55 PM
To: CityhallMail; Aylaian, Lauri
Subject: [SPAM] - City of Palm Desert regulations
Members of the City Council & City Manager:
I am concerned that the city of Palm Desert, like many other American cities, has burdensome
regulations that harm business development. The implementation of these complicated
regulations, perhaps unintentionally, kills the spirit of entrepreneurship and the creation of
new job opportunities in our community.
As a friend of Lindi and Gino Biggi, I have learned of the trials they went through with city
regulations after purchasing several buildings in the San Pablo business area and seeking to
remodel them. The fees and complex layers of red tape were prohibitive and extremely
costly. Most recently, the regulation concerning Art in Public Places poses unfair restrictions
concerning the beautiful statue in the attached photo outside the Venus de Fido Spa on
Alessandro Drive. Without even viewing the statue, the Art in Public Places Commission
members voted to impose a $17,500 penalty against the Biggis because they did not have
certain information about the artist and the edition number of the art piece when first asked,
even after this information was later provided.
Thank you for your consideration of this issue.
Janet McAfee
76892 Joetta Place
Palm Desert, CA 92211
(760) 851-7645
1
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 4:28 PM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: Lindi Biggi Projects
From: Sandy Woodson rmailto:sandvwoodson721@msn.comj
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 4:10 PM
To: CityhallMail
Subject: Lindi Biggi Projects
3-21-17
Dear Mayor Harnik and City Council Members,
I wish to support Lindi Biggi's efforts to get things done in the beautiful City of Palm Desert. She
has been, and continues to be, a strong community asset, not only with her Loving All Animals
projects, but also as a productive, tax -paying member of the community.
While I do not (yet) own property in Palm Desert, I did sell my home in Rancho Mirage and am
now renting a lovely home in Palm Desert and thoroughly enjoying the neighborhood and the
charm of El Paseo and surroundings. My hope is that the City of Palm Desert will look favorably
on Lindi's proposals and support her efforts to enhance and enrich our entire community.
Lindi has taken on enormous responsibilities and expenses to ensure that all animals have a
safe and welcoming environment in which to thrive - her efforts to find "forever homes" for
animals has paid off handsomely over the years. I know, for I am the proud mascot of my cat,
Stoli, whom I adopted when Lindi opened her first office in Palm Desert. There is surely room
for all of us to share the bounty of our beautiful city (see, I'm already claiming it as "our") and
to support those, like Lindi, who give so much back to the community. Everything Lindi does,
she does with a pure heart and the desire to help others. Now is the time for us to help her -
and through her, our wonderful city City of Palm Desert.
With the greatest respect and warmest regards,
Sandy Cooper Woodson
sandvwoodson721Cc�msn.com
760-565-6485
72668 Skyward Way
Palm Desert, CA 92260
i
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 8:08 AM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: OUTRAGE!
From: p fmailto:pbcraineCaaol.coml
Sent: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 5:48 PM
To: CityhallMail; Iindk lindibiaa_ i.com
Subject: OUTRAGE!
MY NAME IS PATRICIA CRAINE. I HAVE LIVED HERE IN THE VALLEY FOR 50 YEARS. I HAVE
SEEN US GROW FROM A TINY VALLEY TO THE MAGIC IT IS TODAY..FOR US AND VISITIORS
FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD TO ENJOY!
I AM APPALLED THAT CITY HALL WOULD EVEN CONSIDER BEING ADVERSE OR EVEN
FINING LINDI BIGGI OVER A LOVELY ASSET TO VENUS DE FIDO , A FOUNTAIN , IN GOOD
TASTE FOR ALL TO ENJOY. THIS PLACEMENT , AS YOU KNOW, IS IN A VERY UGLY AND
ROUGH PART OF PALM DESERT. A PART YOU WOULD NOT BE PROUD OF AND HERE IS A
BEAUTIFUL ADDITION, WITH WHICH YOU FIND FAULT , INSTED OF APPLAUDING!
YOU SHOULD BE THANKING MS. BIGGI , VERSES TREATING HER AS IS SHE IS DEFAMING
THE NEIGHBORHOOD!! SHE HAS ONLY GREATLY IMPROVED THAT NEIGHBORHOOD,
WHICH IN YEARS TO COME, MIGHT HAVE BEEN TORN DOWN.
HER UP TO DATE, BEAUTIFUL AND VERY WELL FUNCTIONING FACILITY IS EXQUISITE AND
ANY OF THE ARTWORK , SIMPLY ENHANCES THE ELEGANCE AND CHARM.
SHAME ON YOU , CITY HALL. I THOUGHT YOU HAD BETTER TASTE THAT THIS!!
CRAINE
PATRICIA
1
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 9:20 AM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: Vemus De Fido, controversial sculpture at entrance
From: Pam Price rmailto:DamDrice57Caamail.com1
Sent: Wednesday, March 22, 2017 9:12 AM
To: CityhallMail
Subject: Vemus De Fido, controversial sculpture at entrance
Palm Desert,
I have been covering the opening of Venus De Fido since July, 2016 . I am taking this
opportunity to voice my support of the site specific sculpture installed at the entrance. It
enhances the architecture and
is in keeping with the outstanding design of the building. I would like to know for what
specific
reasons Palm Desert is opposed to this sculpture.
Thank you,
Pam Price/namnrice57agmail.com
www.desertstarweeklv
co author: Fun with the Family in Southern CA
Globe Pequot Press/ 8 editions
Recent Columns
Palm Springs Art Patron Magazine
www.Malibutimes.com
www.forbes.com/sites/namnrice/
1
Klassen, Rachelle
From: Stanley, Jane
Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2017 10:04 AM
To: Klassen, Rachelle
Subject: FW: [SPAM] - Lindi Biggi /Alessandro and "Palm Desert Building and Safety"
From: Robin Kay fmailto:robinkav919Caamail.com1
Sent: Thursday, March 23, 2017 8:22 AM
To: CityhallMail; Aylaian, Lauri; infoCaodacc.ora
Cc: Lindi Biggi
Subject: [SPAM] - Lindi Biggi /Alessandro and "Palm Desert Building and Safety"
Great Cities are created by people with vision, money and co-operation from whomever is in charge.
Lindi Biggi had a vision for the Alessandro neighborhood. She thought the City of Palm Desert would share
her vision, assist her in creating something unique, vibrant, with tax revenue, and jobs to add to Palm
Deserts list of successes.
She spent considerable income buying/ improving property in the non -desirable Alessandro area full of
homeless vagrants/ drug dealers and at night considered dangerous. Her first building purchase sat
empty for 3 years.
One would have thought a buyer of her caliber / largess would have had the city saying WOW!!! How can
we help. Palm Springs, Rancho Mirage, Cathedral City, Indio, etc. pay attention to buyers purchasing
multiple properties especially in semi- blighted area. Not Palm Desert! Attention comes in the form of
"fines", "forgotten" required very costly permits with odd payments for Art in Public places, assisting the
homeless etc.
Palm Desert Building & Safety Officials do not offer advice, tutorials, or a list of "mistakes" to avoid. Not a
single Building/Safetv person reached out to extend a helping hand to a buyer of no less than 7+properties
Instead an endless barrage of "need more Permits", fines leveled on rule violations ensued.
Lets not forget a three year wait resulting in a series of building fires, disgusting health issues, a home
break-ins, added fences and additional staff hires, for the Police to even assist Biggi with the Alessandro
homeless problem. A mid-dav break-in on a Biggi Alessandro home resulted in police arriving a day
later, with a homeless man strumming a guitar from Biggi's , burnt out "in -Escrow" Guitar Store. She
pointed out the Guitar was stolen. Rather than admonishing the homeless man the Police told Biggi , "let
him have it, be nice and they will be nice". REALLY!!!
Obtaining Building Permits from most Cities including my City of Residence, Palm Springs is realistic. They
include a list of rules/regulations are explained by well versed, experienced people without an
omnipotent attitude, especially if you are applying for anything regarding retail. You leave knowing the
do's and don'ts. There are no surprises!
Is Biggi treated in this manner because she uo-set the balance of power by purchasing properties that Palm
Desert had in mind for something else? One would think that was true by the treatment she has received.
If I were Biggi I would simply walk away, sell everything . make my profit and go to another city who cares
about a new tax base. iobs and is looking for people with Unique Visions to add to their cities reputation .
1
Sincerely,
Robin Montgomery Kay
Palm Springs
2