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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrelim - CC - 05-11-2017PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING THURSDAY, MAY 11, 2017 CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER 73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260 I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M. Mayor Harnik convened the meeting at 3:02 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Mayor Pro Tem Sabby Jonathan Councilmember Kathleen Kelly Councilmember Gina Nestande Councilmember Susan Marie Weber Mayor Jan C. Harnik Draft A Also Present: Lauri Aylaian, City Manager Robert W. Hargreaves, City Attorney Rachelle 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 Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager Eddy Moore, Division Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire Dept./Cal Fire Lt. Coby Webb, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Dept. Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS MR. KARL TWOMBLY, Palm Desert, stated he was with the Sierra Club. He said the City just had a good Study Session on Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), and the Sierra Club is very much in favor of doing that, because he knew of other areas that get to save a lot in their electricity. He's originally from Portland, and there the retail cost per consumer is five cents per kilowatt hour and here 300% of it is charged to the customer. He would be in favor of initially doing a contract or getting a lower rate on the wholesale market, but eventually doing what the City of PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Lancaster did, which was to have their own production plants. For this area he would suggest a larger scale, something like 500 megawatts, where you can really compete with the prices that contracting may be able to get. One recurring issue mentioned in The Desert Sun or in news articles, is that renewable energy like solar or wind, is only producing electricity during sunny days or when it's windy, which is not altogether true, because production plants have various technologies and capacities to store energy. There is a new natural gas production plant that has battery storage or molten salt tanks. Therefore, a renewable energy source can actually provide electricity as a base -load provider, so instead of shutting down renewable sources when you have so much sun that your generating more energy than the demand, you can store it and shut down coal or natural gas production plants. He said the Sierra Club is in favor of doing Community Choice Aggregation/Community Choice Energy, stating he hopes the Coachella Valley would be able to build and own production plants like Los Angeles. He said there would be a substantial savings, so he didn't know why there was discussion of a 5% savings, because if you own the plant, there could be a savings of 50%, which is substantial. IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION Request for Closed Session: A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: 1) Property: Lease Property - 43900 San Pablo Avenue, Palm Desert Negotiating Parties: Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Mark Greenwood/City of Palm Desert Property Owner: City of Palm Desert Other Parties: Kevin Kalman/Desert Recreation District Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment 2) Property: 73697 Santa Rosa Way (APN 627-102-024), Palm Desert Negotiating Parties: Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Mark Greenwood/Martin Alvarez/City of Palm Desert/Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency Property Owner: Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency 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 2 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 With City Council concurrence, Mayor Harnik adjourned the meeting to Closed Session of the City Council and Successor Agency at 3:09 p.m. She reconvened the meeting at 4:03 p.m. V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M. A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION. None VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Palm Desert Charter Middle School- ASB Members VII. INVOCATION - Councilmember Kathleen Kelly VIII. AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS None IX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B MS. SUSAN WELTON, Courageous Resistance, she and her husband have lived in Palm Desert for 29 years, and during this time they've watch the Coachella Valley grow into a renown resort destination. She was here today to remind the City Council it wouldn't have happened without immigrant families who have worked in local hotels, businesses, politics, schools, restaurant, stores, agriculture, gardens, and in the homes. Immigration is one of the hottest civil rights issue of our time, stating California has the largest population of foreign -born residents in the United States; 27% of its population is foreignly born. There are more than 240,000 students who have applied for DACA (Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals), created by the last Administration and is presently being threatened. She went on to say that 13% of all California K-12 children have an undocumented parent, and it's easy to guess that percentage is higher in the Coachella Valley. The often fictional and disrespectful comments against immigrants and the recent ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) sweeps and detainments under the Federal Administration have been atavistic at best and horrifying at worse. She said the Country drives itself into the non -productive predicament of polarization where you are either with us or against us. She sees this as the perfect time to stand united against prejudice, proliferation of fear, and the systematic targeting and deportation of an ethnic group. She and others are here today to speak for those families who are too afraid to come and exercise their own civil rights for fear of harassment, incarceration, or deportation. The mass incarceration and deportation program of nonviolent and tax paying residents is a moral and human rights crisis. 3 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft She said the Coachella Valley, including Palm Desert, will deeply feel the cultural and fiscal consequences of such outrageous policies. It matters little which group is being targeted whether it's the LGTBQ (lesbian, gay, transgender, bisexual, queer/questioning), mentally ill, blacks, Latino, Jewish, or Muslim, when a government systematically targets any population and purposely incites fear and loathing among citizens toward a singled out group, we are no longer a functioning democracy. She said Palm Desert is a wonderful City, but it can be better. It can be a community without fear and guided by a moral compass. As City Councilmembers, it has the jurisdiction to formulate policy that defends the rights of all residents and workers of Palm Desert. Sanctioning an ordinance or resolution which protects the rights of every resident, worker, and visitor, would be one of the sanest and most ethical decisions of its tenure as a Councilmember, which she was requesting this Council to do. MS. FRAN MUESELER, Flower Hill Lane, Palm Desert, thanked the City Council for the opportunity to speak on a moral safety issue for all. Not only safety for the residents, but also to those who come and work in Palm Desert businesses. She's a 17-year Palm Desert resident, and she's self-employed as a consultant in the area of human resources, stating that about 70% of her client base is in the agricultural industry where there is a crucial shortage of field workers and laborers. This critical situation is exasperated by the fear experienced by our immigrant brothers and sisters as it relates to the current climate of immigration enforcement. She has seen first hand how farming businesses are being impacted by fearful employees by not showing up for work, stating it has a domino effect on farmers, businesses, tourist, and relationships with police force. She said everyone is aware how much immigrant families contribute to the economic and social fabric of this Valley, by them establishing and patronizing businesses, contributing to art and culture, and achieving significant educational accomplishments. She hopes to open up a dialog with this City Council and have it consider formalizing a policy that will outline and publicly state how immigrants will be treated by the City of Palm Desert and its law enforcement officers. A policy that states their law enforcement officers will not take any direct action against an individual solely because of his/her immigration status, and shall not administer Federal Immigration Law, which is the exclusive authority of the Federal Government. A policy that prohibits identifying, investigating, arresting, or detaining any person solely on the basis of a suspected violation of immigration law or exchanging personal information, honoring any civil immigration detainment or request to detain, or notify federal authorities about the release of any individual without a warrant. She said they were not asking that this policy go outside federal law, because obviously, she wants police to stay consistent with California law as it relates to the Trust Act and Truth Act. She said this was an opportunity for Palm Desert to define who it is as a City or allow the Federal Government to do it. She said Palm Desert can do what the City of Cathedral City did by publicly declaring what all citizens, workers, and visitors can expect. She requested this issue to be included at a future agenda meeting. 4 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft MR. CARLOS PINEDA, Goleta Avenue, Palm Desert, stated he was speaking on behalf of the Latino community, which was about 11,000 in the City of Palm Desert. However, there are a lot of Latinos coming to and out of Palm Desert to work, patronize businesses and restaurants, and to contribute, in terms of bringing revenue to the City. He noted the City of Cathedral City will take this issue to a vote and he would like Palm Desert to do the same. He added this was a nationwide issue, in that the Los Angeles School District issued a protection resolution to protect its students. He asked the City Council to make a declaration to prevent any type of discrimination against the Latino community. MS. JOYCE ELLENSON, Palm Desert, said she was fortunate to live in such a beautiful place where she could go about her daily life without fear that she may be apprehended or separated from all she held dear. Had she been living in Nazi Germany in the 1930's or 1940's, she would have been living in constant fear of being arrested or detained for the crime of being Jewish. Most have the great misfortune of not knowing what it's like to live in constant fear, but the same is not true of the immigrant neighbors here in Palm Desert who are undocumented. She said many parents are now making custody arrangements for their children in case they are deported, stating that parents are afraid to go to work or drop their kids off at school in fear of being picked up and placed in a detention center, most of which are owned or operated by a corporation with the goal to maximize profits. The current regime in Washington uses hate and fear to make people turn against each other, using a divide and conquer strategy. Under their encouragement, hate crimes against Muslims and Anti -Semitic violence has increased dramatically. She said hate is contagious, but so is compassion, so if people don't speak up for others rights, there will come a day when they will lose their own. She asked this Council to find its compassion and declare Palm Desert a City that protects its immigrant population. MS. CARMEN GINTER stated that under the current Administration the attacks against immigrants and refugees have been nonstop from the Muslim ban to President Trump's nasty deportation force. She said it was time to rise up and show its support to the immigrant and refugee community. She came to Palm Desert to express her personal opinion to defend the human rights of her community. She said immigrants are deeply rooted in families and communities, stating they are parents, children, sisters, brothers, and they are your neighbors and people who participate and contribute. Having police help ICE carry out mass deportation will cause much suffering as families are torn apart. As the daughter of an undocumented mother, a Mexican immigrant, a naturalized citizen, she too was an undocumented child and lived with the fear of deportation for 18 years. She is one of many who are living proof of the American dream, stating they are important contributors to society and deserve to be treated as human beings and with dignity. The fear that is amongst both documented and undocumented, includes students in the schools and workers in the cities, which is the reason she was here, because this fear is real. She went on to say that history will demand to know which side 5 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Palm Desert was on, stating she hoped this Council will speak and act by enacting an ordinance that protects the community and ensures that its police force will not act as deportation agents. MR. ROBERT MUELLER, Courageous Resistance, Rancho Mirage, California, stated he and his partner moved to the Coachella Valley three years ago after living in Connecticut for 33 years. The issue of undocumented immigrants in the Coachella Valley is vastly different from what it is in Connecticut. He has taken a great personal interest in this, because according to the Congressional Budget Office, undocumented immigrants contribute about $21 billion of tax dollars nationally, of which $5 billion is paid within the State of California. These paid taxes helped fund the operations of every California city, including the cities of Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage, stating their success is significantly attributed to the many undocumented residents that contribute to the maintenance and services of these cities luxury hotels and world -class restaurants. He said the United States is a nation of immigrants, and he and many others are asking the City of Pam Desert to do what is fair for all by joining other cities in the Coachella Valley and passing a sanctuary city ordinance. MS. KAREN BORJA, Inland Congregations United for Chance (ICUC), stated they have been organizing with parishioners and priest at Sacred Heart Church. She shared that a couple of weeks ago, one of their parishioners was picked up by ICE from his home in Cathedral City. As people who work in the nonprofit sector, and participating with the church and other nonprofit groups, there is only so much support it can give to immigrant families. Therefore, she was asking Palm Desert to politically support undocumented families through its Council, and although it didn't look like the community it represented, this City Council chose to serve its community. She asked that it consider some kind of sanctuary policy, ordinance, or even just a conversation with the Sheriff's Department. She said Palm Desert is the largest draw provider in the entire Valley, and ICUC is of the opinion that Palm Desert is to protect all who monetarily contributes to the City by not having them deported, sending a clear public message it supports all families that live, work, shop, and convene in the City of Palm Desert. X. MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY A. Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) General Assembly Councilmember Kelly said she had the privilege of attending this meeting, which was held in Palm Desert, making it possible for all Councilmembers to attend the sessions. Three topics of particular interest are: 1) Benefits of open data in government entities, having all information accessible to the public without information request to remit a detail analysis. She said they were given several examples of the benefits that can flow from this kind of system. Thankfully, progress is being made in the world of IT, so Palm 6 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Desert can actually think about living in such a world; 2) Alternative ways on how to create affordable housing; 3) There was an opportunity to take a ride on an autonomous vehicle. It was quite exciting, stating Councilmembers could envision places where Palm Desert was ideal for a pilot location or project using such a vehicle. She said it was a worthwhile event to have participated in. Councilmember Nestande added that the City received an honorable mention for the redevelopment of San Pablo, also known as the Envision San Pablo Project, stating she hoped the City will be able to make that a reality in the next few years. She congratulated staff for developing the project. Mayor Harnik noted that the title of the General Assembly was "Innovation for a Better Tomorrow," stating it fit well because they talked about understanding and embracing change. B. Animal Campus Commission Councilmember Kelly noted she represented the City at the Animal Campus Commission and she wanted to feature for the members of the audience that coming up on June 3 at the Thousand Palms Animal Campus from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., there will be a special event called "Combat Vets and Homeless Pets." The different districts of the County are competing to see which district can accomplish the most pet adoptions during that month. There is a reduced fee of $49 with half of the funds benefitting veterans. Also, all of Palm Desert residents are eligible to receive reimbursement for the adoption fees. She said this was an opportunity to meet the pet of your dreams. C. The Living Desert Zoo and Garden Councilmember Weber noted that in the April 28, 2017, issue of The Week Magazine, The Living Desert Zoo and Gardens received "Charity of the Week" nomination. It also earned a four -star overall rating, stating everyone should be proud that it's in Palm Desert. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan added that last week several Palm Desert Councilmembers attended the ground breaking event for their $25 million capital renovation program, making it a greater resource for the City. D. 15Th Annual Mental Health Art's Festival Councilmember Weber shared she was one of the judges for the art, but more significant is that the Board changed the name from the Desert Mental 7 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft Health Art Festival to the "John Benoit Mental Health Art's Festival," because he had worked on this and made arrangement to have the festival held in the Taj Mahal building to accommodate more people and more art. E. Western City Magazine - May 2017 Issue Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated Western City is a monthly magazine of the League of California Cities, which is for all the cities in the State of California, and on the front cover, Palm Desert was featured. He said this happened because of the incredible City staff, specifically Deborah Glickman who spearheads the Art in Public Places (AIPP) Program, adding that the program includes maps, tours, an app, and 160 public art pieces throughout the City. He said the Program is very innovative and adopted by other cities in California, and it's featured on the front cover and inside the West City Magazine. He congratulated Palm Desert City staff for being the best in the State. F. Coachella Valley Conservation Commission Mayor Harnik reported that at today's meeting, the Commission acquired more land for their conservation efforts to protect endangered species. G. Desert Willow's 20th Anniversary Celebration Mayor Harnik stated the whole event was planned for the outdoors, but then it rained, but Kemper Sports Management once again showed how flexible they can be by moving the event indoors, and they did an outstanding job. H. City of Palm Desert's 32nd Year of the Student Art & Essay Contest Mayor Hamik reported this event was held in the City of Palm Desert Council Chamber and there wasn't an empty seat. She said there were a lot of happy parents, students, family, and faculty, adding she met a set of great-grandparents celebrating their student's art & essay, which was wonderful to see. I. California Desert Trial Academy Mayor Harnik announced there were seven graduates who received their JD (Juris Doctor Degree) over the weekend. She said the Academy is offering a great asset to community members who might otherwise would leave the Valley. 8 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 J. Annual Children & Families in Crisis Conference at Cal State San Bernardino, Palm Desert Mayor Harnik stated the Unforgettables Foundation hosted a great conference covering pediatric addiction. It was an important and relevant subject, adding she was glad to hear the message. K. Bump & Grind Trail Mayor Harnik stated Assemblyman Mayes is carrying forward former Assemblyman Nestande's legislation to keep the Bump & Grind Trail open, adding he was taken on a hike and he appreciated it and will continue working on keeping it open. XI. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of April 27, 2017. Rec: Approve as presented. B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Dated 4/21/2017. Rec: Approve as presented. C. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Barbeau Social Club, 73750 El Paseo, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Evzin Mediterranean Cuisine, 72695 Highway 111, Suite A6, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. E. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MINUTES. 1. Art In Public Places Commission Meeting of February 8, 2017. 2. Library Promotion Committee Meeting of December 21, 2016. 3. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting of March 7, 2017. 4. Youth Committee Meeting of March 13, 2017. Rec: Receive and file. 9 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft F. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Extend Contract with The Printing Place for Printing of the Bimonthly BrightSide Newsletter for Fiscal Year 2017-2018 (Contract No. C35191). Rec: By Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) One-year extension of subject contract with The Printing Place, Palm Desert, California, for bimonthly printing of the BrightSide newsletter in the amount of $30,162 for FY 2017-2018, as provided for in said contract; 2) production of an additional BrightSide edition, pursuant to Section 2.3 of subject contract, in the amount of $5,027 — funds are available in the FY 2016-2017 Budget and in the proposed FY 2017-2018 Budget in Account No. 1104417-4302600. G. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Lagoon and Water Features Maintenance Services for Fiscal Year2017-2018 to Desert Limnologists, Inc. (d.b.a. Southwest Aquatics), in the Amount of $34,999.92 (Contract No. C36000). Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Award subject contract for Lagoon and Water Features Maintenance Services for FY 2017-2018 to Desert Limnologists, Inc. (d.b.a. Southwest Aquatics), Palm Desert, California, in the amount of $34,999.92; 2) include extra repair work and services in an amount not to exceed 20% of contract ($6,999.98); 3) authorize Mayor to execute said contract — funds are available in Account Nos. 1104610-4332001 - R/M Landscape Services and 1104614-4332501 - R/M Other. H. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Desert Wind by Marko Kratohvil for Desert Crossing Shopping Center, Located at 72351 Painters Path, Suite B2, Palm Desert, as the Replacement Artwork for Lush Life by Barbara Field (Desert Crossing Shopping Center, Applicant). Removed for separate consideration under Section XII, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and action. I. CONSIDERATION of Letter of Support for AB 1326 (Cooper & Cervantes) and Letters of Opposition for AB 1250 (Jones -Sawyer) and the Proposition 64 Proposed Budget Trailer Bill. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve a letter of support for AB 1326 (Cooper & Cervantes) and letters of opposition for AB 1250 (Jones -Sawyer) and the proposed Proposition 64 Budget Trailer Bill. 10 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Out -of -State Travel for the Tourism & Marketing Manager to Conduct Desk -Side Briefings with National Publications in New York City. Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize Out -of -State Travel for the Tourism & Marketing Manager to conduct desk -side meetings with national publications in New York City in June 2017 — funds are available in the FY 2016-2017 Marketing Budget. Councilmember Weber requested Item H be removed for separate consideration and action. Upon motion by Kelly, second by Nestande, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None), the remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved as presented. XII. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER H. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Desert Wind by Marko Kratohvil for Desert Crossing Shopping Center, Located at 72351 Painters Path, Suite B2, Palm Desert, as the Replacement Artwork for Lush Life by Barbara Field (Desert Crossing Shopping Center, Applicant). Councilmember Weber stated the only reason she pulled this item is to say thank you to the Art in Public Places Commission for their hard work in selecting the art, because Palm Desert is known for it, adding that staff and the Commission take their responsibility very seriously. She said this was such an unfortunate circumstance, in that the previous art piece at Desert Crossing Shopping Center was severely damaged and couldn't be saved, but the replacement is stunning. She thanked staff and the Commission for bringing something to Palm Desert that will be very memorable. Councilmember Weber moved to, by Minute Motion, approve Desert Windby Marko Kratohvil as the replacement artwork for Lush Life by Barbara Field at Desert Crossing Shopping Center, 72351 Painters Path, Suite B2, Palm Desert — no financial impact to the City. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). XIII. RESOLUTIONS None 11 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING XIV. ORDINANCES A. For Introduction: None B. For Adoption: None XV. NEW BUSINESS Draft MAY 11,2017 A. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO USE GENERAL FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $16,500 FOR REMOVAL OF 27 PALM TREES ON THE PALM GATE LIGHTING AND LANDSCAPE DISTRICT PROPERTY AND TO ESTABLISH PROCEDURE TO RECAPTURE EXPENDITURE FROM THE ANNUAL ASSESSMENT LEVY. Mr. Greenwood stated the Palm Gate Lighting and Landscape District lies on the east side of Deep Canyon and north of Fred Waring Drive. The Palm Gate LLD manages and cares for 27 palm trees. As time has progressed, landscape costs have increased, yet members of that District has declined to increase their levy to match the cost of maintaining those palm trees. Therefore, the trees have fallen into a hazardous condition, and on more than one occasion, the trees have caused damage to an adjacent property that is not a member of this District. He noted Landscape Supervisor Randy Chavez, who is a Certified Arborist, has determined the trees are hazardous and should be removed. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan questioned if the City had the authority to make this decision and proceed as requested by staff. Mr. Greenwood answered yes with the City Attorney's concurrence. Responding to question, he confirmed the City owns the land and the trees. Further responding, he said the trees could be trimmed at a higher and ongoing cost. Landscape Supervisor Randy Chavez stated he was also a Certified Arborist and credentialed to be a Tree Risk Assessor. He explained that one of the hazards with the trees is the proximity to street, sidewalk, and adjacent properties. Being that these trees don't get maintained on a regular basis, it creates a hazard with the fallen debris that is generated. Responding to question, he said there are Mexican Fan Palms with California Fan Palms at the entrance, but the most hazardous ones are the Mexican Fan Palms. 12 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11, 2017 MR. JIM SCHMID, Day Lily Circle, Palm Desert, stated he was a resident at Palm Gate, so he was familiar with the area. He said the existing palm trees are the only plant material in the landscape, so removal of them would leave the area barren. He noted Mr. Chavez helped him understand the funding and safety issues, and he understood them well, because he too is a landscape professional. He's glad the distinction has been made between the Mexican and California Fan Palms, stating there are 14 California Fan Palms which appear to not be hazardous. However, the 13 Mexican Fan Palms certainly are, but the state of a hazard is related to lack of ongoing maintenance, and the lack of maintenance is due to underfunding of the LLD. He also understood that if there is a decision made to maintain the trees frequently, there would be a higher cost, but there was still a negative balance in the fund. He said he would support the removal of the palm trees if there was a plan to replace them with something so as not to leave a barren ground. MR. GARY PARD, Moss Rose Drive, Palm Desert, stated he has lived in Palm Desert for six years, adding he loved this community, it's beautiful, green and lush, but when he learned the trees would be removed and the landscape left blank, he became very concerned. The letter he received indicated there was a survey done in 2009, but people like himself who just moved in, didn't get it. With regard to the cost for the maintenance of the trees, one letter he received said the cost was $850, but an email he received said it was $750, questioning why there is a difference in cost. He went on to say he walks with his dog twice a day and noticed they cut off the water to the palm trees. Also, why would the water be cut off before there was a resolution. He hoped the City Council will consider replacing the trees to keep the area green and lush. Mayor Harnik thanked the speakers for taking the time to come and speak to the Council on this matter. She informed Mr. Pard that due to Councilmember Weber's efforts, the live stream of City Council meetings include captioning. MR. PARD thanked the City Council, stating the City had his name on the list. Councilmember Nestande asked how many palm trees did the City currently maintained, trimmed, and are in good standing. Mr. Chavez replied the City currently prunes about 3,000 palm trees on an annual basis. Responding to question, he said the issue was the funding source, because the City doesn't spend General Funds to prune trees that are in a lighting district, adding he didn't have the authority, which is why the City was in this current situation. 13 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Councilmember Nestande stated the City owns the land and those trees are in a central location, so Council could authorize staff to maintain them. She agrees the trees need some TLC and she would advocate to save them and/or do a combination of landscaping. She pointed out that the name of the City is Palm Desert, referring to "palm trees," which is part of the City's identity. Councilmember Weber commented that if the City does that for this landscape and lighting district, than all the other districts will want the same. She said on Deep Canyon there is already sections that were converted to desert landscaping, because that district chooses not to pay for it, which is their choice. Councilmember Kelly asked how many other comparable situations exist where a district has responsibility for similar maintenance. Mr. Chavez replied there are three other underfunded districts, however, this one is different in that it has the most trees that have to be pruned on an annual basis. The other underfunded district has shrubs, so it's not as prolific as this one. Further responding, he said there are approximately 33 other districts that have a surplus where they actually have funds in their CIP (Capital Improvement Program) Account, excluding Presidents Plaza. Therefore, all districts with the exception of three have funds in their account to perform the current maintenance. Mr. Greenwood added that a good example would be the Hovley Lane West, where you have a small tract with 15 to 16 homes with a little bit of landscaping in the arterial Hovley Lane, it is well -funded and the landscaping is well maintained. Councilmember Kelly asked if staff had a landscape plan that meets the funding available once the palm trees are removed. Mr. Chavez explained that staff put a lot of thought into this matter and one option discussed was to put in some boulders or decomposed granite (DGs) but that would have been another $15,000 above the removal cost. Staff looked at different scenarios, but it came down to cost and this assessment is only levied approximately $3,000 a year. Therefore, at this time, there were no plans to add any landscape after removing the palm trees. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated most everyone loves trees, because it's part of the fabric of the City, but once they are gone, Palm Desert is a lessor City for it. He said Council is being challenged here because of the legal and financial mechanism in place. Therefore, he recommended continuing the matter to give staff another opportunity to do what they have exhibited very 14 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft recently, which is to think outside the box and see if there is another solution to retaining the trees through enhanced maintenance or by just replacing the 13 Mexican Palms as suggested by Mr. Schmid. He said staff can look for ways of increasing the assessments or creating a fund that would allow this without creating precedence. He believed there were a lot of other possibilities, because boulders or decompose granite was not a replacement for trees. He reiterated that he would recommend continuing the matter for further exploration by staff. Councilmember Kelly said she would support that recommendation, because one of the speakers mentioned there was a survey done in 2009, so it's possible there has been enough change within the residential group that a different result might come from a current effort. She would also like to know what the plan will be if the palms are removed, perhaps replacing them with palo verde or something drought tolerant but still provide some greenery. Responding to question about the water being turned off, Mr. Chavez confirmed the City turned off the water several years ago. Mayor Harnik said she has received calls many times by unhappy homeowners about those trees, but they are unable to pay a higher assessment. However, the Mexican Palms are a nightmare, because every time there is wind coming from the opposite direction is when the dead fronds come down causing a hazard, adding they are not indigenous to the area. She said the ongoing maintenance of a Mexican Palm is expensive, and she was sure the residents there would not want to incur that cost. Therefore, she was in favor of having them removed. She wondered if the residents would be open to keeping the California Palms and having the Mexican Palms replaced with palo verde or mesquite by having their assessment increased. Mr. Chavez said he wouldn't recommend Palo Verde trees because they are also high -maintenance. He added that being a Certified Arborist, trees are important to him as well, and this was not an easy decision for him either, however, safety was paramount and it's the driving factor. He said this issue came to the City Council because, literally, without the funds he didn't have another option. He asked if Council was directing staff to re -survey the residents. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan moved to, continued the item to the meeting of July 13, 2017, with staff directed to explore alternatives other than removing all palm trees and work with property owners in the Assessment District to find a mutually beneficial solution. Motion was seconded by Kelly. 15 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Councilmember Weber said she didn't realize the water had been shut off since 2009, questioning how the palm trees were able to survive. Mr. Chavez said the water had been totally shut off and the trees were getting irrigated by the adjacent properties irrigation. Mayor Harnik said the two residents that spoke could be neighborhood captains and explain to their neighbors the situation and about the option of increasing the assessment. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan agreed, stating they could also spread the word that this matter will be addressed again on July 13, adding they can be part of the decision -making process. Mayor Harnik called for the vote and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH GIBBS PLANNING GROUP, INC., FOR EL PASEO URBAN MASTER PLANNING DESIGN SERVICES IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $27,000 (CONTRACT NO. C36110). Associate Planner Kevin Swartz stated that in October 2016, staff formed a team to discuss strategies to ensure El Paseo's continued success and viability. The team considered a variety of ideas, including road diet, wider sidewalks, creating additional public spaces, establishment of districts, and closure of a section of El Paseo to create an outdoor plaza space for events. Based on these ideas, he displayed similar designs in other cities as follows: Rodeo Drive; State Street in Santa Barbara, which was about 40 feet across; Scottsdale, Arizona; Third Street in Santa Monica; Downtown San Jose that includes parallel and angle parking and pop -out seating next to the restaurants; Beale Street in Memphis, Tennessee; King Street in Charleston, South Carolina, where they divided the street into three different districts (dining/shopping district, art district, and small mom/pop store district); Austin, Texas; Denver, Colorado; and Ithaca, New York. He said it was important to secure the services of an expert who can vet several concepts, which is why the team consisting of Economic Manager Ruth Ann Moore, Senior Management Analyst David Hermann, and himself, contacted Mr. Robert Gibbs of Gibbs Planning Group, Inc. After numerous conversations, the team believed he was well qualified and would be an ideal fit. Based on the proposal, Mr. Gibbs will meet with each Councilmember, staff, local businesses, and property owners. Then based on their research, the firm will prepare six different concepts and plans for El Paseo, which will include a written narrative describing the advantages and disadvantages of each one. Lastly, they will prepare a master plan for El Paseo. Creating this 16 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11, 2017 plan for El Paseo will also fulfill priorities identified within the City's Strategic Plan. Staff believes that the proposed scope of work is important to ensure the continued success of El Paseo and recommended approval of the proposed motion. Councilmember Weber asked which areas had the firm worked on that was similar to Palm Desert, because when she sees work that was done far away, she didn't know how they could relate to this area. Mr. Swartz replied Mr. Gibbs hasn't done work in the Coachella Valley, except for a market study for Fantasy Springs, but they've done similar streets in Florida and other places that are similar to upscale shopping and dining as El Paseo. Responding to question on whether staff looked at other contractors, he said no, because Gibbs Planning Group (GPG) was a recommendation from the consultant Sargent Town Planning that worked on the City's General Plan. Further responding, he explained the Master Plan will be developed after determining which of the six concepts to go with. Councilmember Kelly stated staff mentioned the scope of work included consulting with Council, retailers, and businesses, but she didn't find that listed in the proposed agreement. Mr. Swartz said it was within the Gibbs Planning Group scope of work, which is attached to the staff report and listed under Task 1. Councilmember Kelly stated she strongly supports the notion of bringing in a consultant, because she agreed with Councilmember Weber, that in many respects, El Paseo is a total contrast from the one's displayed, in that Palm Desert has a different demographic and different target/group for shopping. Therefore, she thought it was extremely wise to use a consultant to draw together all the relevant information to provide the Council with their analysis. Ms. Aylaian added that when staff realized they didn't have the expertise to project the future of retail and to anticipate how the physical structure of El Paseo should change to accommodate the future, they tumed to Sargent Town Planning who was the planner for the General Plan and who really developed the concept for San Pablo. Staff asked David Sargent with Sargent Town Planning where they would be able to find this type of expertise with urban planning school and specializes in retail and high -end areas. Without hesitation, staff was given the name of Bob Gibbs, because across the Country he was an expert. Attached to the staff report, Mr. Gibbs listed areas where he's done work, and one was Alexandria, Virginia, where their old town area has exactly the type and nature of development Palm Desert would be looking at. In fact, their downtown area was one the City used as a model when it developed a design criteria for El Paseo. Also, 17 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Charleston in South Carolina, which has an interesting use moving national tenants into existing historic buildings and creating an environment that works. Also, the examples in Memphis, Tennessee, and Naples, Florida, stating Naples is a newer town and a newer shopping district than the older ones, but has the same high -end retail that is in Palm Desert. Additionally, Santa Cruz, California, and Portland, Oregon, would be the other ones listed, so you can see he is used across the Country and not in the Coachella Valley. However, there is only one El Paseo and the City has never looked for a consultant like this before. Councilmember Weber stated she understands the consultant is not only looking at the street layout, but also incorporating how to improve the retail, which is why he will be talking to the retailers. Mr. Swartz confirmed that Mr. Gibbs was familiar with the area, stating he worked at Fantasy Springs and has been on El Paseo. Mr. Gibbs actually worked for Taubman Centers Inc., so he has planning background. Ms. Aylaian noted that Taubman is the owner of The Gardens on El Paseo and El Paseo Village. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan said he loved that the City was doing this, and commended staff for knowing when they need professional guidance and assistance. He actually liked that the consultant was not from here and is familiar with best practices around the Country and will hopefully bring the best of those other places, with the understanding that El Paseo is unique and special. He asked that staff convey to the consultant that the Denver flex space is amazing. He said the goal of this exercise is not to reshape the configuration of El Paseo, but how to maximize this resource and make it better. He expects that the consultant will not put the cart before the horse, but will actually create something after he's consulted and spoken with all the stakeholders. He said the LA market has a similar configuration where the street is shut down during the weekends and restaurants have the ability to create seating, which was interesting to him. He loved that staff was moving forward and he was in support. Mayor Harnik noted the City is spending $27,000 into looking at a design for El Paseo, which she agrees is needed, but it made her think about getting someone to do the same for President's Plaza. She said it was time for the City to realize the situation there is beyond staff's scope, otherwise, it will end up with a beautiful El Paseo with an adjacent parking lot that is nowhere near Palm Desert standards. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) Agreement with Gibbs Planning Group, Inc., Birmingham, Michigan, for Professional Services, including creation of a Master Plan for El Paseo, in an amount not to exceed 18 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 $27,000; 2) Mayor to execute said Agreement, subject to City Attorney making non - substantive changes thereto — funds are available in Account Nos. 1104470-4309000 - Community Development ($10,000) and 1104430-4309000 - Economic Development ($17,000). Motion was seconded by Nestande and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). Ms. Aylaian stated this information will then feed into the Strategic Plan that is being updated for the City, adding that both projects were individual goals within the year, but one is intricate to the economic development of the City. Mayor Harnik said Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) has funds available when it incorporates active transportation, so there might be funds there for both El Paseo and President's Plaza if it can be incorporated. C. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT TO LANCE, SOLL & LUNGHARD, LLP, TO PERFORM PROFESSIONAL AUDITING SERVICES FOR THE FISCAL YEARS ENDING JUNE 30, 2017, THROUGH 2022, IN THE AMOUNT OF $79,278 FOR THE FIRST YEAR (CONTRACT NO. C36120). Assistant Finance Director Luis Espinoza stated the City went out to bid and in March it received five proposals. He said staff, including himself and Director of Finance Janet Moore reviewed the proposals, conducted interviews, and selected Lance, Soll & Lunghard. The proposed Agreement is a six -year contract. Councilmember Weber said she was part of the selection team, stating she was so appreciative of the Finance Department's hard work in preparing everything for the interviews and preparing them with the appropriate questions, which made the job easier. She said selecting this firm was a no brainer, because it was evident to all they were the right choice. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan added that the final vetting also included Councilmembers and residents, and the recommendation went to the Audit, Investment & Finance Committee, and it was approved unanimously there as well. He said it was good practice to change auditors, so he's proud of staff and the City for going through that exercise. Councilmember Nestande moved to, by Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) Award of subject contract to Lance, Soll & Lunghard, LLP, Brea, California, to perform Professional Auditing Services for the Fiscal Years Ending June 30, 2017 - 2022, in the amount of $79,278 for the first year, and subsequent years as outlined in Exhibit "C" of said contract; 2) Director of Finance to negotiate other services that may be necessary from time to time in an amount reasonable for such services; 3) Mayor to execute said contract 19 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 and City Manager, or her designee, to take any actions necessary to facilitate the contract — funds will be budgeted in the respective future fiscal years, accordingly. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Hamik; NOES: None). XVI. CONTINUED BUSINESS None XVII. OLD BUSINESS None XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF OUTSIDE AGENCY FUNDING COMMITTEE RECOMMENDATIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018 COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG) FUNDING AND ONE-YEAR ACTION PLAN. Ms. Riddle stated the City received a total of 13 applications for its 2017- 2018 Community Development Block Grant application cycle. Five (5) of the applications were for Capital Improvement and eight (8) were for public service programs. The Outside Agency Committee met and is recommending that all five of the Capital Improvements projects be awarded. The agencies being proposed are Desert Aids, Desert Arc, JFK Memorial Foundation, Martha's Village & Kitchen, and Neuro Vitality Center, formerly known as The Stroke Recovery. The agencies for public service are Angel View, Martha's Village & Kitchen, Riverside County Office of Aging, and Shelter from the Storm. The City has not been notified yet of its 2017-2018 allocation, so based on that information, the criteria was made that when it does receive its allocation that the organizations being recommended for an award are increased evenly across the board if the amount is more than anticipated. Therefore, when the City submits its Action Plan to HUD, they will recognize that the City took that into consideration to make the adjustment. Just recently, the City was notified by HUD that they are requesting that the City not submit the Action Plan until it receives the Notice of Allocation or no later than August 16, 2017. Councilmember Kelly noted that the staff report states, "If Operation SafeHouse is funded by Regional Access Project (RAP), then the $8,000 contemplated for them would be awarded to Martha's Village & Kitchen, and that the RAP funding is expected to happen." Therefore, she questioned if the $8,000 was included in the recommended amount for approval for Martha's Village & Kitchen. Ms. Riddle answered yes. 20 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Mayor Harnik declared the public hearing open and invited public testimony FAVORING or OPPOSING this matter. MS. LAURA NACHISON, Desert Aids Project (DAP), stated she was the Senior Grant Writer for the Desert Aids Project in Palm Springs, and lives in Palm Desert. She thanked the City Council and the Outside Agency Committee for its service to the citizens of Palm Desert, and DAP is grateful for the support provided by Palm Desert through the CDBG. She said CDBG funds have supported Phase 2 of their Emergency Generator Project. Their request for CDBG for 2017-2018 will support Phase 3, which is the installation of an Emergency Power Source Generator. The handout she provided is a schematic drawing of the project, which includes photos showing Phase 2 is nearly completed. Due to required electrical and structural upgrades, they have phased all preparatory construction before seeking funding for the generator itself, which is Phase 4, the last phase. She went on to say that DAP currently does not have a generator that would support ongoing health care services in their medical clinic to preserve medications and food that require refrigeration in the event of a power loss. With an emergency generator, and as a federally qualified health center, DAP is capable of providing disaster related medical care and shelter at their facility for the general community. She said this project will help implement Palm Desert's city plans to assure access to affordable health care and implement the emergency preparedness element of the City's General Plan to minimize damage and Toss of life. Therefore, Phase 3 of their Emergency Generator Project is a power conversion project. If awarded, CDBG funds will support construction, structural improvements, and electrical component installation. These upgrade will power a new Southern California Edison transformer that will be installed to operate the emergency generator. They appreciate that the City of Palm Desert recognizes in its Needs Assessment that persons with HIV/Aids suffer from a disability that challenges them to maintain food, housing, and safety, and adhere to treatment that is an important public health need for the entire Coachella Valley. With no further testimony offered, Mayor Harnik declared the public hearing closed. Councilmember Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approve/authorize: 1) Outside Agency Funding Committee recommendations for FY 2017-2018 CDBG Funding, as proposed; 2) FY 2017-2018 CDBG One -Year Action Plan; 3) Staff to submit the FY 2017-2018 CDBG One -Year Action Plan to the U. S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). Motion was seconded by Nestande and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). 21 Draft PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION, SPECIFIC PLAN, PRECISE PLAN, CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, AND TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 37157 FOR MONTEREY CROSSING, AN 18-ACRE COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF MONTEREY AVENUE AND DINAH SHORE DRIVE, Case Nos. SP/PP/CUP/EA 16-188 and TPM 37157 (Fountainhead Shrugged, LLC, Applicant). Principal Planner Eric Ceja reported staff noticed an error in the public hearing notice and it needs to be re -noticed. Staff requested that the City Council not consider this item this evening, stating they will return in two weeks for its consideration. He said the Applicant has been notified and has indicated they will be in attendance in two weeks. Councilmember Nestande moved to, by Minute Motion, continue the item to the meeting of May 25, 2017. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). XIX. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. CITY MANAGER 1. City Manager's Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of April 17-28, 2017. With City Council concurrence, the City Manager Meeting Summaries were received and filed. Ms. Aylaian reported on the following: 2. Summer Schedule Ms. Aylaian stated that at this point, staff is planning for the City Council meetings for the second meeting in July and the first meeting in August to be cancelled as is traditional. However, staff is prepared to hold a special meeting if warranted (July 27 and August 10, 2017, City Council meetings will be cancelled). 3. Special City Council Meeting - September 7, 2017 Ms. Aylaian explained that the regular City Council meeting of September 14, 2017, conflicts with the League of California Cities meeting that a number of staff and Councilmembers will be attending. Therefore, staff will hold a Special Meeting on September 7, 2017, in lieu of the September 14 regular City Council meeting. 22 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft With City Council concurrence, staff will proceed with the above -mentioned schedule, unless notified otherwise. B. CITY ATTORNEY None C. CITY CLERK 1. Reminder of City Council -Housing Authority Joint Study Session - Friday, May 12, 2017, at 8:30 a.m. in the Administrative Conference Room - Fiscal Year 2017-2018 Financial Plan/Budget. Ms. Klassen noted the subject Study Session scheduled for Friday, May 12, 2017, and Councilmembers so noted. 2. Announcement of City Council Study Session - Thursday, May 25, 2017, at 2:30 p.m. in the Administrative Conference Room — Presentation by the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP). Ms. Klassen announced the subject Study Session scheduled for Thursday, May 25, 2017, pointing out that it will only be a half hour presentation, which is why the study session will begin at 2:30 p.m., and Councilmembers so noted. D. PUBLIC SAFETY 1. Fire Department None 2. Police Department None E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. Councilmember Susan Marie Weber's Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of April 10-23, 2017. With City Council concurrence, Susan Marie Weber's Meeting Summaries Report was received and filed. 23 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 2. City Council Requests for Action: a) U.S. Immigration Policy, Draft Councilmember Kelly stated there were several speakers that spoke at the beginning of the meeting under Oral Communications, urging the City Council to do something to protect productive members of the community who may be subject to deportation because of their immigration status, unless and until there is some action at the national level which creates a guest -worker program and a path to citizenship. She knew that in past occasions, the City has taken advocacy positions when it was clear that pending or possible legislation had a direct connection to the City. She wondered if it would be appropriate for Palm Desert as a City to be mindful of how dependent its economy is upon immigrants and look at the possibility to at least communicate to the advocacy representatives or provide some encouragement to pursue a true immigration reform that includes a guest -worker program and a path to citizenship. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated the City has a Legislative Committee that periodically brings to the Council pieces of legislation to either support or oppose, which he thought would be the appropriate venue to discuss this matter rather than placing it on the agenda. Councilmember Kelly replied she liked that idea. Mayor Harnik commented that Palm Desert Police did not enforce Federal Law; they only enforce State and County laws. b) Resident Card - Expanded Benefits Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated Palm Desert has a resident card, which is actually a Desert Willow discount card, but he thinks the City might be missing an opportunity. There are other cities that provide a full nine -yard type of resident card that has a menu of benefits for being a resident of that city, which he thought could be done in Palm Desert. His suggestion is to look at an expanded resident card that provides discounts at Palm Desert restaurants and retailers, maybe just during the summer. He thought the Chamber of Commerce could make that happen if Council wished to go down that road. One example of a Palm Desert resident 24 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 11, 2017 Draft benefit was the shredding event, however, Rancho Mirage residents probably also came to that event. Councilmember Kelly stated they do check addresses at the Shredding Event. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan said it wasn't advertised as a Palm Desert event, but other examples are that hotels could offer a free pool day at the Marriott or a discount admission to The Living Desert, because people will also buy food and beverages, etc. He said the whole point is to make it even more special to be a Palm Desert resident. Therefore, it may be time for staff to explore whom that card should be made available to, e.g., property owners, primary residents, half-time residents, weekenders, etc. Although, such a card would not be appropriate for Desert Willow, perhaps there can be two separate cards. Mayor Harnik suggested presenting the idea to the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan agreed, adding they lease the building for $1 a year, so maybe the City should allow them to do some of the work. Ms. Aylaian agreed to have staff take a cursory look to see how big a project this would be, because she's afraid of the size of the undertaking and commitment of resources. She will return to Council with information on what it will take to develop such a program and then Council can decide if it wants to substitute this in for some of the other goals its working on for this year. Mayor Harnik commented she thought this was the perfect size project for the Chamber, because any business can offer a discount if they wished to take part, but that would be in their marketing plan. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated that if staff felt this idea would drive the City's vision forward, he's not saying it needs to be done tomorrow, so please keep in mind that if it does require more staff and resources than he perceived, this didn't have to be the highest priority, because it wasn't in his mind. 25 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 11,2017 Ms. Aylaian said it was actually a great idea and she will want to know what City employees, who is not residents, can do to qualify as well. Councilmember Weber said this issue of a resident card has been discussed for almost two years with the previous City Manager and staff, because Palm Desert does have a resident card that is used over at the Community Center versus the Golf Card. She liked the idea of calling in the Chamber, but she felt this was a two-part thing. One is the benefit to residents, but the other part was who qualified for it. As mentioned by the City Manager, people who work in Palm Desert, but don't live here, would they qualify, and/or people who own property, visitors, etc. It's an issue she's been wanting to bring forward to be discussed with a lot of community involvement and determine who exactly qualifies. She said it was a complex issue, so she would like to get started and nail it down. 3. City Council Consideration of Travel Requests and Reports: None XX. ADJOURNMENT With City Council concurrence, Mayor Harnik adjourned the meeting at 5:44 p.m. ATTEST: RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA JAN C. HARNIK, MAYOR 26