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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrelim - CC - 05-25-2017Draft XI PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING THURSDAY, MAY 25, 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 3:05 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 Also Present: Lauri Aylaian, City Manager Robert W. Hargreaves, City Attorney Grace L. Rocha, Acting 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 J. Luis Espinoza, Assistant Finance Director Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs Sgt. Michael Gaunt, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Department M. Gloria Sanchez, Acting Deputy City Clerk III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS) None IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION Reauest for Closed Session: PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: 1) Property: Lease Property - Parkview Professional Office Complex, 73710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite No. 118, Palm Desert Negotiating Parties: Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Janet M. Moore/City of Palm Desert Property Owner: City of Palm Desert Other Parties: ACT for MS Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment B. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2): Number of potential cases: 2 With City Council concurrence, Mayor Harnik adjourned the meeting to Closed Session of the City Council at 3:05 p.m. She reconvened the meeting at 4:01 p.m. V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M. A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION. Mr. Hargreaves reported that direction was given, but no reportable action was taken. VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Palm Desert Youth Committee Member Tazz Ross VII. INVOCATION - Mayor Jan C. Harnik VIII. AWARDS AND PRESENTATIONS A. PRESENTATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL OF AN UPDATE ON PALM DESERT YOUTH COMMITTEE ACTIVITIES BY MEMBER TAZZ ROSS. Mr. Ross reported that the Committee's last meeting before breaking for the summer will be held the first week of June. They will start planning for next year's events such as the Anti -Bullying and No -Idling campaigns, and the Senior Tech Days at the Joslyn Center. He thanked the City Council for the opportunity to report on behalf of the Youth Committee. Mayor Harnik stated the Youth Committee did many great things for the community and they have made a difference. 2 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 Councilmember Weber added that the work of the Youth Committee at the Joslyn Center has been well received, and they are grateful. She looked forward to seeing them again next year. B1. PRESENTATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE AMERICAN PLANNING ASSOCIATION BEST COMPREHENSIVE PLAN FOR SMALL JURISDICTION AWARD. Mr. Stendell announced the City recently received the Inland Empire American Planning Associations (APA) Award for Best Comprehensive Plan for Small Jurisdiction category winner. The local Inland Empire APA also encouraged staff to apply at the State level, because they believe the City's General Plan implementation tools are good enough to win there as well. B2. PRESENTATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE DRIEHAUS FORM - BASED CODES AWARD FOR THE UNIVERSITY NEIGHBORHOOD PARK SPECIFIC PLAN. Mr. Stendell went on to announce the second award received by the City Council from the Form -Based Codes Institute in conjunction with the Richard H. Driehaus Charitable Lead Trust for the University Neighborhood Park Specific Plan. It was based on the fact that it was providing a kit of parts for creating the fundamental urban form addressing both the public realm and private development, achieving the ideal balance between predictability and flexibility. They believe the University Neighborhood Park Specific Plan is a tool to create the University area that the City really desires. He said it was interesting to receive this award along with other neat companies from Nashville, Miami, Brooklyn, and many others that Palm Desert is never associated with, and it was an honor receiving the award by Congressman Raul Ruiz who was handing them out a couple of weeks ago. Mayor Harnik stated it started with the Strategic Plan and community involvement in that entire process, which then culminated in the General Plan. She said the whole process took years, so it was wonderful to see all that hard work being recognized. IX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B MS. MEGAN GOEHRING, Palm Springs, CA, thanked the City for its sponsorship of the Certified Farmers' Market, specifically for their new one that will begin on June 4 inside the Westfield Shopping Mall. It's a location they have long sought and everything came together perfectly this year to make it possible. They're excited to better serve east Valley customers that have been driving all the way to Palm Springs in order to buy their fresh produce. They are hoping that customers at the Westfield Mall will stumble upon the Farmers' Market and find a new source for fresh produce all summer long. They will be located in 3 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 the lower level adjacent to Macy's Home and World Gym every Sunday from 9:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. from June 4 through September 17. She provided a goodie bag for each Councilmember, which also included more information about their summer schedule. MR. WALLY MELENDEZ, Palm Desert, CA, stated he drives a Nissan Leaf electric vehicle and he hasn't paid one penny for gasoline, adding that a full charge gives him 85 miles. He came to City Hall to speak in defense of planet earth, which was in distress. He said the government, local, and federal agencies should take the issue seriously, and that every town should conduct a test by designating one day out of the year where no gas or diesel vehicles are allowed in their jurisdiction, just to see what the impacts would be. X. MAYOR AND COUNCILMEMBER COMMENTS TO THE COMMUNITY 1. California JPIA 2017 Newlv-Elected Officials Conference Councilmember Nestande reported she attended the two-day seminar and learned a lot of good little nuggets to hopefully better serve the community. 2. Pet Adoption Event at the Animal Campus Councilmember Kelly announced the Animal Campus is holding a pet adoption event on Saturday, June 3. The fee is reduced and half of the reduced amount helps to support veterans. Additionally, the whole adoption fee is reimbursable to City of Palm Desert residents. 3. Joslyn Center - Meals on Wheels Councilmember Kelly stated the Joslyn Center continues to have some additional capacity for its Meals on Wheels Program. She said some people erroneously assume there are specific income criteria, but there isn't, because the sliding scale allows the Center to serve anyone who is a resident of Palm Desert that is 50+ years and has some limitations that make getting out to shop or prepare food a problem. She asked everyone to spread the word and anyone interested can simply call the Joslyn Center. 4 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 4. National Red Nose Day Draft Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan wished everyone a happy Red Nose Day. He said it was all about ending child poverty. If this was a subject of interest, you can go to the website rednoseday.com and learn all about it and perhaps contribute to the cause. 5. Foot Golf at Desert Willow Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan noted he was Council Liaison to the Desert Willow's President's Committee, stating people think of Desert Willow as a golf course, and it is, but it's also a foot golf course. He said Desert Willow was prominently featured positively on the front page of the sports section in The Desert Sun, because there is an International Tournament that just finished at Desert Willow. He said Desert Willow is also the home to the National Foot Golf Association, adding it was a fast-growing sport. He congratulated General Manager Derek White and crew of Kemper Sports Management, including Information Officer David Hermann who is largely responsible for the excellent press, stating it's always nice to have the City of Palm Desert in the news for good things. 6. Fiscal Year 2017/2018 Budget Study Session Mayor Harnik reported the City Council went through the Budget Study Session where there was great and spirited discussions. She said the City has come a long way with making some decisions and once again Palm Desert will have a balanced budget. 7. Optimist Club of Palm Desert - Senior of the Year Awards Mayor Harnik said she attended the luncheon where Grant Swajian and Emily Andrade received the award. She noted that Grant Swajian had a perfect attendance record from kindergarten through 12th grade, which was unbelievable to her. 8. International Conference of Shopping Centers (ICSC) Mayor Harnik reported she and Director of Economic Development Martin Alvarez attended the conference and learned a lot about Geo-fencing, big data, parking issues, and redefining retail, stating it was a great and informative conference. 5 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 XI. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of May 11, 2017. Rec: Approve as presented. B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrants Dated 4/28/2017, 5/5/2017 - 2, and 5/12/2017. Rec: Approve as presented. C. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY/HOUSING TREASURIES - Warrants Dated 4/21/2017 and 4/28/2017 (Joint Consideration with the Palm Desert Housing Authority). Rec: Approve as presented. D. COMPLIANCE ANALYSIS AND INVESTMENT REPORTS for the Month of March 2017 (Joint Consideration with the Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency). Rec: Receive and file. E. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE byJC's Patio Cafe, 73200 El Paseo, Suite 1A, Palm Desert (Two [2] Applications). Rec: Receive and file. F. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES. 1. Audit, Investment & Finance Committee Meeting of March 28, 2017. 2. Youth Committee Meeting of April 3, 2017. Rec: Receive and file. G. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Heather Horning - Housing Commission. Rec: Receive with very sincere regret. 6 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft H. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of $35,000 Expenditure for BrightSide Newsletter Postage - Fiscal Year 2017-2018. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the expenditure of $35,000 for the United States Postal Service to cover a year's worth of postage for mailing of the bimonthly BrightSide Newsletter — funds have been included in the proposed FY 2017-2018 Budget in Account No. 1104417-4302600. I. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Reimbursement to Friends of the Desert Mountains in the Amount of $5,000 for Purchase of Palm Desert Hiking Trail System Directional Signs. Removed for separate consideration under Section XII, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and action. J. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION of a One -Year Lease Agreement with Christopher Dolan for Operation of a Remote -Controlled Car Racetrack on a Vacant City -Owned Parcel on Painters Path West of Desert Crossing Shopping Center (APN 640-091-010) (Contract No. C29464). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute the subject one-year Lease Agreement with Christopher Dolan for the operation of a remote -controlled car racetrack on a vacant City -owned parcel located on Painters Path (APN 640-091-010). K. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Parking Lot Sweeping Services Fiscal Year 2017-2018 through 2018-2019 to M & M Sweeping in the Amount of $29,380 (Contract No. C36050). Removed for separate consideration under Section XII, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and action. L. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 in the Amount of $35,000 — Contract No. C34281 — Mechanical Maintenance and Chemical Acquisition at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center by Knorr, Inc. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Change Order No. 1 in the amount of $35,000 to the subject contract with Knorr Systems, Inc., Santa Ana, California, for Mechanical Maintenance Services and Chemical Acquisition at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center — funds are available in Fund 242 Accounts in the FY 2016-2017 Operating Budget. 7 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 M. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Certificates of Deposit for the De Anza Well Site (Bighorn Development, LLC, Applicant). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize release Certificates of Deposit on file for the De Anza Well Site. N. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Bonds for the Spanish Walk Bike Path (DR Horton, Applicant). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize release of the Bonds on file for the Spanish Walk Bike Path. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan requested Items I and K be removed for separate consideration and action. Upon motion by Kelly, second by Weber, 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 I. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Reimbursement to Friends of the Desert Mountains in the Amount of $5,000 for Purchase of Palm Desert Hiking Trail System Directional Signs. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated he thought the idea was to add trail head signage, but the staff report indicates otherwise. Management Analyst Kim Warpinski confirmed they are not trail head signs, they are signs that will be intermittently placed on each of the nine trails outlined in the estimate. They are to provide directional help to hikers to avoid them straying off the trails. Further responding, he said trail head signage is part of the second phase, but right now they are only working on directional signs Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan inquired about the timeline for both directional and trail head signage. Ms. Warpinski replied that the directional signs will be implemented this summer, but not sure on the timeline for the trail head signage, however, it she knew it was a valley -wide effort. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan shared the Friends rolled out an app for hiking, which was amazing, and it has three trails on it, but there are nine total. He's 8 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft hoping the City can work with the Friends to expand on this GPS oriented trail and also promote it. Ms. Warpinski said staff does have plans to help in promoting the app, but it's currently in the testing phase, which is why there are only three Palm Desert trails on it. Mayor Harnik noted the Conventions & Visitors Bureau (CVB) site also has trails, questioning if there was a Zink to them as well. MR. COLIN BARROWS, Friends of the Desert Mountains, stated they are currently not linked to the CVB, but they are working on it. He added that the CVB is actually funding the app fee to keep the trails on the app its using, which they are planning on expanding. They are also working with the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) to improve the number of trails and information on the app. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan added that the CVB is aware that hiking is one of the most sought after amenities in tourism today, and Palm Desert has so much of that to offer. They are also spearheading the effort to develop that resource from a tourism standpoint. Therefore, he's pleased to hear that all the stakeholders are playing together instead of each doing their own thing. MR. BARROWS agreed, stating they've had several meetings with the CVB and they are continuing their relationship with them, stating he believed everyone was happy with the collaboration. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion, approve reimbursement to Friends of the Desert Mountains for purchase of materials to erect directional signs along the Palm Desert Hiking Trail Systems in an amount not to exceed $5,000 - funds are available in the Civic Center Account for Professional Services under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Bureau of Land Management, Account No. 1104610-4309200. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0 vote(AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). K. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Parking Lot Sweeping Services Fiscal Year 2017-2018 through 2018-2019 to M & M Sweeping in the Amount of $29,380 (Contract No. C36050). Mr. Greenwood stated this was the City's annual and routine sweeping contract. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated his concerns about this methodology are well documented, because he keeps brining this issue up every year. He asked if this program was mandated, because it addresses PM10 articulates. 9 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 Mr. Greenwood answered no, in that only street sweeping was mandated. Further responding, he said funds for this contract will come out of the General Fund. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan said he is not convinced that sweeping parking lots is effective and most parking lot owners don't do it. Often, the landscaping service includes blowing anything significant as part of the cleaning of parking lots, but his gut sense is that it creates as much dust as it helped. He's been in the minority on this issue and is prepared to continue in the minority unless he's convinced otherwise of its effectiveness. Councilmember Weber said she appreciated Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan's comments, and if he wanted to bring this issue up at a later time in order to do more research, because if there was another method or alternative, she would like to look at it. Councilmember Kelly stated the last thing she would want to encourage is any additional use of blowers both on the grounds of air pollution and noise pollution. She also didn't think people would want dust kicked up by blowers. However, she was in favor of a complete study at another time. Councilmember Nestande noted she served on CVAG's Energy and Environmental Resources Committee and they will be looking at leaf blowers in general about the pollution in the air caused by a variety of leaf blowers, stating they could add street sweepers to the mix. Councilmember Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Award subject contract for Parking Lot Sweeping Services FY 2017-2018 through 2018-2019 to M & M Sweeping, Thousand Palms, California, in the amount of $29,380; 2) authorize Mayor to execute the contract — funds are available in the various Building and Business Improvement District Accounts. Motion was seconded by Nestande. Mayor Harnik said she understood this leaf blower issue is brought up quite often, but she recalled for the Council that the City pays a fee to dispose of contaminated sand, adding that sweepers do pick up sand. However, leaf blowers did put things in the air and one had to be careful of that. Unfortunately, the City has to pay when sand is contaminated with oil and other substances, which was important to do for safety reasons. Mayor Harnik called for the vote and the motion carried by a 4-1 vote (AYES: Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: Jonathan). 10 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING XIII. RESOLUTIONS Draft MAY 25, 2017 A. RESOLUTION NO. 2017 - 40 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, TERMINATING THE DAYCARE DEDICATION ON LOT 14 OF TRACT 33837-1, AS SHOWN BY MAP ON FILE IN BOOK 402, PAGES 4 THROUGH 8 OF MAPS, RECORDS OF RIVERSIDE COUNTY, CALIFORNIA. Mr. Hargreaves stated this was the last step in a decade -long saga of the child care site. He said the City acquired the site, but there was a dispute, and late last year the City Council authorized the settlement by which the City would transfer the site to the adjacent developer and he would provide another smaller site and reimburse the City the prorated portion of the amount spent on the site. In order to effectuate the settlement, the City needs to abandon the child care dedication on the old site, which is reflected in the proposed Resolution. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2017 - 40. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). XIV. ORDINANCES A. For Introduction: None B. For Adoption: None XV. NEW BUSINESS A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF GAS AND DIESEL FUEL FOR THE CITY'S FLEET AND EQUIPMENT, AND FOR DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT'S MAINTENANCE VEHICLES AND EQUIPMENT, FROM BECK OIL, INC., FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018 IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $245,000. Mr. Greenwood stated this was the City's routine purchase of fuel for Desert Willow and the City fleet. Councilmember Nestande moved to, by Minute Motion, approve purchase of gas and diesel fuel from Beck Oil, Inc., Coachella, California, FY 2017-2018, for: 1) City's Fleet and Equipment in an amount not to exceed $145,000; 2) Desert Willow Maintenance Facility in an amount not to exceed $100,000 — funds are available in General Fund 11 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 Account No. 1104331-4217000 - Auto Fleet -Supply Automotive Gas and in Account No. 5204195-4803100 - Desert Willow Maintenance Facility. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION WITH FAMILY YMCA OF THE DESERT FOR MANAGEMENT AND OPERATIONS SERVICES AT THE PALM DESERT AQUATIC CENTER FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018 (CONTRACT NO. C33471). Management Analyst Kim Warpinski stated this was the first of two one-year options for extension of this contract. Councilmember Nestande moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve subject contract extension with Family YMCA of the Desert (YMCA) for Management and Operations Services at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center; 2) authorize Mayor to execute same — funds are available in Fund 242 Accounts and have been included in the FY 2017-2018 Operating Budget. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Hamik; NOES: None). C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION WITH KNORR SYSTEMS, INC., FOR MECHANICAL MAINTENANCE AND CHEMICAL ACQUISITION AT THE PALM DESERT AQUATIC CENTER FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018 IN THE AMOUNT OF $83,596 (CONTRACT NO. C34282). Councilmember Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve subject contract extension with Knorr Systems, Inc., Santa Ana, California, for Mechanical Maintenance Services and Chemical Acquisition at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center for FY 2017-2018 in the amount of $83,596; 2) authorize additional repair work and services at the specified contract amount, not to exceed 20% thereof ($16,700); 3) authorize Mayor to execute same — funds are available in Account Nos. 242-4549-454-2111 and 242-4549-454-3311 in the proposed FY 2017-2018 Operating Budget. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). D. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AN AGREEMENT BETWEEN KOFF & ASSOCIATES AND THE CITY OF PALM DESERT IN THE AMOUNT OF $131,975 FOR THE PREPARATION OF A COMPREHENSIVE CLASSIFICATION AND COMPENSATION STUDY (CONTRACT NO. C36160). Ms. Carney stated this item was for a comprehensive classification and compensation study. This topic has been touched upon several times over the last several months because it's directly tied to City Manager's goals in terms of succession planning and workforce development. As noted in the 12 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft staff report, the last study was conducted over 22 years ago, and this is an area where the City has some deferred maintenance and needs to take action. Recognizing this and the scale of what would be necessary to bring all classifications, almost 100, up to date, staff prepared a Request for Proposals (RFP) for consultant services. A committee consisting of executive management, mid -management, and general unit employees was formed to review the six proposals and recommended two to be interviewed. The top two firms were interviewed by the selection committee that included the City Manager and Councilmember Kelly. The result is the recommendation for the City Council to award the contract to Koff & Associates. The selection was based on the proposal, experience, and positive references received from other cities. Staff anticipates this project will take approximately six months to complete, at which time, recommendations for implementation would return to the City Council for action. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked about the fees and how it compared to the other six proposals. Ms. Carney explained that the majority of the proposals were within the ball park, but there was one that was several hundred thousand more and another that was $80,000 less. The two that were interviewed were very close, adding that one of the driving factors of the cost is the length of time since the last study, and how out of date the classifications are. Responding to question about the difference in price of $131,000 versus $80,000, she said the methodologies were different, and the number of staff and amount of hours dedicated to the City for the project was also different. Because of the scope of the project and what it wants to accomplish, including the number of classifications it wants reviewed, the committee felt the lower cost proposal wasn't an accurate representation of the amount of work that would be required. Staff is asking that every employee be contacted as part of the process, which would require more hours from the consultant. Therefore, the lowest cost proposals didn't seem realistic for the amount of hours that would need to be devoted to this project. Councilmember Weber moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve subject agreement between Koff & Associates, Berkeley, California, in the amount of $131,975 for preparation of a comprehensive Classification and Compensation Study, subject to non - substantive changes approved by the City Attorney; 2) authorize Mayor to execute said agreement and City Manager to take any actions necessary to facilitate the actions taken herewith; 3) appropriate $131,975 from the Unobligated General Fund to Account No. 1104154-4309000 for this purpose. Motion was seconded by Nestande and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). 13 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft E. INFORMATIONAL REPORT REGARDING SUBMITTAL OF TWO GRANT APPLICATIONS RELATED TO BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN SAFETY IMPROVEMENTS. Mr. Greenwood stated that in effort to always improve the City's bicycle lanes, staff has applied for two grants, specifically to improve locations where the signage and striping could be better. He was happy to report that he's heard back on the SB821 grant where the City was tentatively rated number one. There has been a subsequent letter from the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) that there's been some confusion in the order, but he was still confident the City would be fully funded for its request. However, he had not heard from Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) on the other grant. Councilmember Kelly said she was pleased to learn of the submittals and commended staff for taking the initiative, bringing forth such a complete work product that identifies the work to be performed, and finding funding sources, which is greatly appreciated. Mr. Greenwood said he would relay the compliment to Transportation Engineer Mark Diercks who is responsible for this effort. With City Council concurrence, the informational report was received and filed. XVI. CONTINUED BUSINESS A. CONSIDERATION OF 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 73600 ALESSANDRO DRIVE, PALM DESERT (Lindi BiggiNenus de Fido, Applicant) (Continued from the meetings of March 23 and April 13, 2017). Ms. Aylaian noted this item was on the agenda because the last time the City Council discussed it, it was continued to a specific date requesting staff to consult with the Applicant to see when she would be available. The Applicant has indicated that she would be available on June 22. Therefore, staff recommended continuing the item to that date. Mayor Harnik recused herself from this item and left the Council Chamber. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked if they could dispense with this item, because the City Council had a memo and recommendation to go on. 14 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 Ms. Aylaian explained the City Council could do what it chooses, but typically staff likes to have the Applicant present to allow them every opportunity to put forward their concerns and their request in person. Councilmember Nestande stated that if the Council can have a positive outcome, she would like to take a vote at this time. Councilmember Kelly concurred, stating this was somewhat a special circumstance in that this was part of a larger project of reconstructing a prominently blighted and vacant building, and as a consequence, it improved the visual aesthetics of the neighborhood. Councilmember Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approved reimbursement to the Applicant of the Art In Public Places deposit in the amount of $17,500 for the Venus de Fido Project located at 73600 Alessandro Drive, Palm Desert, based on a finding of substantial compliance with the Art In Public Places Ordinance. Motion was seconded by Nestande. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated his reasoning for supporting the motion and the refund, as indicated in the memorandum from the City Attorney subsequent to the denial at the last meeting, is that new information came that enabled Council to conclude that the reimbursement request is now in substantial compliance with the existing ordinance, which was the issue it was trying to address. Councilmember Weber agreed, because the AIPP Commission works hard in enforcing the City's guidelines as it relates to art in the community. It was important for everyone to understand this item had very unique circumstances, and she believed staff was doing everything it could to have it come into compliance. She commented that the City was grateful to have Venus de Fido at that location. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan called for the vote and the motion carried by a 4-0 vote (AYES: Kelly, Nestande, Weber and Jonathan; NOES: None; ABSENT: Harnik). XVII. OLD BUSINESS None 15 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS Draft MAY 25, 2017 A. 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) (Continued from the meeting of May 11, 2017). Principal Planner Eric Ceja was pleased to bring this project before the City Council. He said it was a Specific Plan for Monterey Crossing, a new commercial development located at the corner of Monterey Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. The site is an 18-acre undeveloped parcel that is bounded by an existing railroad and railway. The current zoning designation is Planned Regional Commercial (PC) with Freeway Commercial Overlay Zone (FCOZ). The FCOZ requires the preparation of the Specific Plan, and the Specific Plan requires City Council approval. The Specific Plan will include roadway improvements as part of the development. From the entire time that staff has been working with the developer on this application, staff has emphasized the need for a gateway development, being it's at the entrance to Palm Desert. Staff express the need to see architectural significance, which they believe the developer met the intent. Given the emphasis on this being a gateway development, there is no vehicle access off Monterey Avenue; it will all come from Dinah Shore Drive. There will be roadway improvements at Toni Way, stating there is a signalized intersection there now which will be improved for vehicle traffic into the site, and two additional entries to the site from further east along Dinah Shore Drive. The Specific Plan breaks down the site into four different districts: 1) Restaurant and shop districts; 2) Hotel District located in the northwest corner; 3) Retail District; 4) Northeast District for auto -oriented use. The project has a pedestrian focus in that all the buildings are connected, which includes a pedestrian plaza. As part of the gateway development, there is emphasis on architecture. He displayed renderings of the project, architecture, location of the buildings, etc. The developer is following the City's design and development standards for the Planned Regional Commercial Zone, however, they have requested a building height for the hotels only up to 50 feet. Staff is in favor of the request, stating they are heights seen recently approved, specifically the Fairfield Inn on Cook Street and the Millennium Specific Plan. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked if this was an actual approved Precise Plan design or was this conceptual. 16 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft Mr. Ceja replied it was conceptual at this point, but staff did add a condition with regard to the renderings that will go back to the Architectural Review Commission (ARC). Councilmember Kelly stated the proposed hotel site is adjacent to the Monterey off -ramp as the roadway rises to go onto the freeway, so in some sense the hotel wouldn't be 50 feet above height level for many observers. Mr. Ceja concurred, stating the 50-foot height measurement will be taken from the floor, however, as the roadway rises, the vantage point of the hotel will be smaller. He went on to say the other two districts (retail and automobile uses) includes space for three retail buildings up to 30,000 square feet. There is some flexibility built into this Specific Plan where it could accommodate another hotel site. He displayed additional renderings of the pedestrian plaza that is right at the corner of Monterey Avenue and Dinah Shore Drive. The area is sunken in a few feet below the roadway creating a nice ambience for dining near the plaza. He said the document allows the developer to propose their own development standards subject to City Council approval. He displayed a table that illustrated the different standards proposed, and for the most part, they are meeting the standards of the City's development code with minor exceptions along Monterey and Dinah Shore for a two -foot reduction in the setback, which staff found appropriate given the massing, scale of the building, and its location. Additionally, the maximum hotel height would be 50-feet, which is 15 feet higher than City standards, but again, staff is supportive of the request. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan noticed the parking spaces being suggested is 201 more than the ordinance requires, which is unusual. Mr. Ceja explained the Specific Plan has identified one of the districts as automobile use, like for a dealership, stating some of the parking stalls that may be used for storage. Responding to question, he confirmed if the automobile use doesn't materialize, the City can expect a change in the parking spaces. He went on to say the ARC has already recommended approval for buildings 5, 6, and 8, which is near the pedestrian plaza. All the land uses and proposed uses are consistent with the City's zoning code, but because of the flexibility and potential changes in the Plan, it may require further direction from the Directors of Public Works and Community Development. Essentially, some of the areas identified for change can do so subject to the Applicant providing a Traffic Analysis and proving they haven't exceeded the threshold for traffic within the area. With regard to traffic impacts, there are modifications along the roadway in that Toni Way is being improved, and turning lanes will be changed at Monterey and Dinah Shore. He said this Plan went through ARC and the Planning Commission and it was well -received by both Commissions. Also, the CEQA review process has been completed for a Mitigated Negative Declaration. He said 17 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING MAY 25, 2017 Draft staff had plenty of contacts with the City of Rancho Mirage and CalTrans regarding this proposal. The development standards and land uses are compatible with the City's zoning code, and some of the Conditions of Approval would be that all other buildings that weren't formerly approved by the ARC would have to go back through that review process to confirm they are in conformance with the Specific Plan. One of the things brought up at the Planning Commission by Commissioner Greenwood, specifically for restaurants, that any building that goes back through ARC should perform a line of sight study to ensure that any roof -mounted equipment is not visible, especially as the roadway rises on Monterey. Another condition is that the Plan accommodate drive -through restaurants, which are conditionally permitted at this Zone, but with proper screening. Staff was able to make all findings in support of the proposal and recommended approval. Responding to question, he said the turn lanes on Dinah Shore east heading north on Monterey, will become triple left -turn lanes. He said the Applicant put together a video rendering of the project, which he presented to the City Council. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan noted buildings 5, 6, and 8 were approved by ARC, and he reviewed the renderings for 5 and 6, but he couldn't find 8. Mr. Ceja said it should have been included as part of the architectural packet. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan recalled a study session with regard to signage, questioning if that would be a separate issue. Mr. Ceja responded that signage would be a completely separate item from what is being proposed and considered today. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated that with regard to roof -mounted equipment, he believed there were hotels that may look down on roof tops, asking if that was considered by staff and the Planning Commission. Mr. Ceja explained that most of the concern was on line -of -sight for vehicle traffic traveling on Monterey. He believed the architecture and the wrap around forms used will help hide the roof -mounted equipment, not only from the ground view but from the Monterey roadway. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated that while roof -mounted equipment cannot be hidden from line -of -sight if you are looking down on it, which he understood, but he's stayed in places where you look at the roof and it was badly done and others looked very neat. Councilmember Kelly pointed out that the only building adjacent to Building No. 1, was Building No. 3. Therefore, most of the rooms were not going to be facing toward a building. 18 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 Mr. Ceja said Council's comments are noted, and they will be taken forward. Mayor Harnik declared the public hearing open and invited public testimony FAVORING or in OPPOSITION. MR. JOHN LOPER, Palm Tree Communities, stated he was the consultant that wrote the Specific Plan, and noted their environmental and traffic consultants were available to answer questions. He introduced Ms. Vasanthi Okuma, the Applicant. MS. VASANTHI OKUMA, Fountainhead Shrugged, LLC/Applicant, expressed she was pleased with staff's presentation of the project. She said this was a challenging site, mainly because of its configuration and its triangular shape. Additional challenges with the development plan included the various utilities cris-crossing the site, both underground and overhead. There were utility easements that made placement of buildings difficult, but despite all that, thankfully with City staffs assistance, they came up with a development plan that meets all of the City's goals. She said the site will provide a destination that will be very exciting for the community, and she is very proud of it. They listened to staffs input, but it was also in their interest to provide unique architecture to the site. Therefore, they used a lot of interesting and variety of materials to create a center that will not look dated ten years from now, stating a lot of thought went into the landscaping, plaza, and architecture. Further, there is tremendous interest on the site from national tenants, so she believed it will be a successful center and huge employment generator for the City, stating she hopes the City Council will be in favor of the project. MR. LOPER said they worked a lot on how they connected each of the four districts of the Specific Plan from a pedestrian point of view, so that if you were at the hotel you could go down to the plaza and eat at one of the restaurants there, which is one of the goals of the Specific Plan. Everyone they spoke at the City mentioned this was a gateway location. Therefore, they put their major pedestrian activity center right on the corner, so that when your coming off the 1-10 freeway, you will be able to see activity and life coming into this great entrance to the City. A lot of outdoor dining opportunity is included in all the areas where you can have a restaurant. In response to questions raised regarding parking, he said the extra parking spaces were as a result of a proposal they have for the Specific Plan. If there is a tenant that wants to do automobile sales, the Specific Plan does not change the parking requirements from the City Code. It would be a small building, but utilizing the parking lot where they would store brand-new vehicles for sale, which is why the numbers look different from the Code displayed on the table. The second question raised was on transportation and traffic. He said they will be adding an additionally left -turn lane in three different locations: One will be on Dinah Shore as you are driving from the 19 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 neighbor city of Rancho Mirage east to Monterey, there is currently a left turn to get you off Monterey and onto the 1-10, that will become a triple left turn instead of a double; as you go westbound on Dinah Shore from Toni Drive to go on Monterey going south toward City Hall, which will be converted to a double from a single; the third change is on Toni Way at the intersection, at the entrance to the proposed Center, there will be a double left turn into the project to accommodate all the traffic. He said all three have been thoroughly studied in the Traffic Study, and all these traffic improvements are being done within the existing right-of-ways. The last question raised was about the hotel, and while they currently don't have a hotel operator, having an approved Specific Plan is always a valuable marketing tool, which indicates the ability to have it built fast. The concept in the Plan is that it will be a linear building and the rooms would face east and west. There would be the possibility that the last room on the south side will be a corner room with windows facing south, but the majority of the orientations are east and west, with a pool area on the west side as a buffer. He believed the views of air -conditioners on roofs are quite a distance from hotels to the nearest building on the east side, but they did pay a lot of attention with guidance from ARC about how to shield from Monterey, because Monterey will get about 20-feet higher than the site on the north side. He offered to answer questions. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked if there was any word on the retail and auto sale tenants potential, and if not, when will the City know one way or the other. MR. LOPER replied that at this time there was no word, but the Specific Plan has a lot of flexibility for other retail oriented uses that could go in there, and they have design guidelines regarding that, but he expected that portion of the site to be one of the later ones to get developed. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated there may be safety concerns if you have a massing of pedestrians close to where vehicles will be heading west on Dinah Shore to get on the on -ramp where it's heavily trafficked. MR. LOPER explained the current configuration of a free right-hand turn curved area for just the westbound Dinah Shore to northbound Monterey would stay, and then there would be a full size sidewalk. The corner there has a small depression, including a 30-foot setback of landscaping. The pedestrian area and seating for dining are a minimum of 40+ feet from the curb, because of the 10-foot sidewalk and 30-feet of landscaping setback. There is also a slight retaining wall that becomes a bench wall, which adds a level of safety. Further responding, he said the only humans would be the people walking on the sidewalk that may be walking over to Panera Bread. 20 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 MR. WALLY MELENDEZ, said it seemed to him that this corner is already a traffic embattlement. He said he used to walk that corner when he didn't have a car, which he believes is a death trap for pedestrians, adding it's heavily trafficked and adjacent to Interstate 10. With no further testimony offered, Mayor Harnik declared the public hearing closed. Councilmember Kelly agreed with the Applicant that this is a challenging site and she greatly appreciated the quantity of work that has gone into this project by the Applicant, staff, ARC, and Planning Commission, because she believed the City was privileged to be looking at a very well developed project and appropriate for this site. She is specifically appreciative of the work that went into the framing of the conditions, including the requirement for future line -of -sight study. Councilmember Kelly moved to, waive further reading and: 1) Pass Ordinance No. 1323 to second reading, approving the Monterey Crossing Specific Plan document and a Mitigated Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact; 2) Adopt Resolution No. 2017 - 38, approving a Precise Plan and a Conditional Use Permit for the Monterey Crossing commercial development, subject to conditions; 3) Adopt Resolution No. 2017 - 39, approving Tentative Parcel Map 37157, subject to conditions. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked how long are the approvals for if Council approves the Specific Plan and Precise Plan. Mr. Ceja said a Specific Plan is subordinate to the General Plan, but it stays in place until that Specific Plan is rescinded or amended, and the Precise Plan will be in place for two years. If the Precise Plan is not developed within two years, the Applicant would have to come back to do a new precise plan, which meant they could update the architecture, but overall, because the Specific Plan is still in place they have to conform to the architectural exhibits, materials, and landscape identified in that plan. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan asked if it was the same for the configuration, the lots, access, ingress, and egress is part of the Specific Plan and runs with the property as long as the General Plan permits it to do so. Mr. Ceja said it does, but there could be a property configuration, but nothing would stop the Applicant from further subdividing or consolidating the property, adding the Applicant could come back with a new map. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated that over the years, the City has seen many applications that were awesome, but then it continues looking at dirt. As privileged as the City is to be looking at what appears to be a substantive and sincere developer, they are also privileged to develop this particular corner, which is absolutely an important gateway to the City. He asked what 21 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 mechanism did the City have in place to avoid looking at an empty lot if the developer doesn't move forward and there's other interested parties, and whether the City had any influence in that regard. Mr. Ceja explained that if the developer chose not to move forward, it might not be beneficial for them to hold on to the land, stating they could sell it to any other party, and that party would have to conform to the Specific Plan. One of the things the City has done, and he'll use the center across the street, The Desert Gateway, once a single building is built, it essentially stayed that precise plan and any development that came underneath that was already approved, they would just have to go back to ARC, which is how they imagine this site developing. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated now that's he's finished with his questions, his comment is that he agreed with Councilmember Kelly that the project is wonderful, understanding the numerous challenges associated with it. However, there was a danger to the beautiful pictures and awesome video, in that they are of record now. He said the Applicant and developer appeared to be sincere, dedicated, and sensitive to the project, and they did a wonderful job with this particular property, adding he hopes to see it turned into a reality. Councilmember Weber agreed this property was a challenge, but from what has been seen, she's looking forward to having this project in Palm Desert. She added the Applicant has probably noticed this Council is very conservative, so it will be paying a lot of attention to the details, but she wished it a lot of success. Mayor Harnik stated she believed the City will have to do something to cause traffic to slow down at the comer if people are attempting to cross it, but it looks like Public Works and the developer were up to the task. She went on to say that she and Director of Economic Development Martin Alvarez and Economic Development Manager Ruth Ann Moore have met with Fountainhead this past and previous years at ICSC, and they've seen this Plan evolve. She said Fountainhead is very aware of Palm Desert values, and every time they come back they have demonstrated they have worked within those parameters. The project has entailed dealing with a well site and consolidating land together, so it has not been easy and they have hung in there. She said there may still be one or two obstacles, but the City wants the project to be successful and this Council will do its best to help in that regard. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan seconded the motion and it carried by a 5- 0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). 22 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING XIX. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. CITY MANAGER Draft MAY 25, 2017 1. City Manager's Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of May 1-12, 2017. Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan said he noticed the City Manager had a meeting relating to short-term rentals and wondered when the City Council will see a proposed ordinance on both the short-term rentals and Cannabis. Ms. Aylaian responded that staff has a draft ordinance on the short-term rental, which they plan to present to the ad hoc committee on June 14, stating it might be ready for the City Council to review after the summer hiatus. With regard to the Cannabis ordinance, Mr. Stendell stated he was looking at the August City Council meeting, stating that staff will probably bring the ordinances for the short-term rentals and the Cannabis on separate meetings. He said both staff members have been handling these ordinances exquisitely, and public outreach is going very well; staff was on track to present to the City Council after the summer break. Mayor Harnik pointed out that Proposition 64 was a moving target with Sacramento, and it has morphed into other things. Mr. Stendell agreed, in fact he and staff wanted to get the Cannabis Ordinance to the City Council prior to the summer, but to the ever - changing amount of bills, it was wise to hold off. He said the City still had until January 1, which was adequate amount of time, even if they had to make minor revisions once presented. With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries Report was received and filed. 2. Request for Appointment of Two Councilmembers to an Ad Hoc Subcommittee to Study Potential Medical Transport Services Cost Recovery Program. Ms. Aylaian stated that one of the goals identified for this year in the City Manager's goals was to take a look at the financial implications of getting reimbursement for medial transport for ambulance service. This is something in which Palm Desert is about the odd City out in California, stating almost all the other cities do collect reimbursement 23 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 for those services. She said staff will be putting a subcommittee to work on this and she was looking for two representatives from the City Council to give staff guidance as they start out in order to expeditiously return with a recommendation that would be acceptable to the City Council. Councilmembers Weber and Kelly volunteered to serve on this ad hoc subcommittee. Mayor Harnik moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the appointment of Councilmembers Kathleen Kelly and Susan Marie Weber to serve on the ad hoc subcommittee to study potential Medical Transport Services Cost Recovery Program in the City. Motion was seconded by Jonathan and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Jonathan, Kelly, Nestande, Weber, and Harnik; NOES: None). 3. Announcement of Award - Ms. Aylaian reported she was contacted by the Government Finance Officers Association to notify the City of its Certificate of Achievement for Excellence in Accounting and Financial Management, adding this was the highest form of recognition available in governmental accounting and financial reporting. She said it was a credit to Director of Finance Janet Moore, Assistant Finance Director J. Luis Espinoza, and the entire Finance staff for doing a great job. She added this was the 20th year in a row that Palm Desert has been awarded a Certificate, which was in large part due to J. Luis Espinoza. B. CITY ATTORNEY None C. CITY CLERK Ms. Rocha announced the upcoming Study Session for Wednesday, June 7, 2017, at 8:30 a.m. for a tour of the home referred to as the Walter S. White house at 73697 Santa Rosa Way, Palm Desert. She added that the City Clerk's Office will be following up with a formal notice. D. PUBLIC SAFETY 1. Fire Department None 2. Police Department None 24 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL Draft MAY 25, 2017 1. Councilmember Susan Marie Weber's Meetina Summaries Report for April 24 - May 12, 2017. With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries Report was received and filed. 2. City Council Comments: a) Community Choice Aaareaation (CCA) Ad Hoc Committee - Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan reported there is a draft Joint Powers Agreement (JPA), which is floating its way through staff; it has an aggressive timeline. He said there are still many questions and concerns and staff is working its way through them. He said if Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) has its way, the City may see that as early as June. He noted Mr. Stendell has been attending the meetings, so he was familiar with it. b) Desert Willow President's Committee - Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan said he was happy to report that performance was ahead of budget and ahead of last year, which was significant because the Fire Cliff Course was closed for a significant amount of time. He said Desert Willow has recovered from that and has gone beyond. c) CVAG Homelessness Committee - Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated that on June 6 they will be having a study session for a presentation by Path of Life Ministries regarding the details and questions associated with the shelter and services in the west end of the Valley. He added that he shouldn't use the word shelter, because it isn't a building that's being looked at, stating the housing will be more in the form of renting apartments, condos, or hotels for emergency housing. He added that at this point, there are five cities that have put the placeholder in their budget for the full $103,000 annual funding, which had never happened before, previously only three cities were contributing. Also, there are still other cities in discussions and possibly new stakeholders. Therefore, he was cautiously optimistic that good things will happen. d) Audit. Investment & Finance Committee - Mayor Pro Tem Jonathan stated the Committee met the new auditor and the firm will begin their work next month. 25 PRELIMINARY MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING Draft MAY 25, 2017 e) Bike to Work Dav - Councilmember Kelly thanked and commended the City Manager for coordinating "Bike to Work Day." It was great exercise, but also a good team -building activity. She believed that everyone that participated had a wonderful time. Ms. Aylaian stated that for next year, she may have special T-shirts made for the occasion. 3. City Council Requests for Action: None 4. City Council Consideration of Travel Requests and Reports: None XX. ADJOURNMENT With City Council concurrence, Mayor Harnik adjourned the meeting at 5:37 p.m. ATTEST: JAN C. HARNIK, MAYOR GRACE L. ROCHA, ACTING CITY CLERK CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 26