HomeMy WebLinkAboutPost-Meeting Agenda Package - StudySession_Feb07_2024
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL,
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY,
AND HOUSING AUTHORITY MEETING
REGULAR MEETING POST-MEETING AGENDA
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
12:00 p.m.
Council Chamber, City Hall
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, California
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the purpose of the Study Session is to review the items listed on the
agenda. No action will be taken.
This is a joint meeting of the Palm Desert City Council, Successor Agency to the Palm Desert
Redevelopment Agency, and the Palm Desert Housing Authority. Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this
meeting may be conducted as a hybrid meeting allowing public access via teleconference or in
person, and up to two Councilmembers may attend remotely.
WATCH THE MEETING LIVE: Watch the City Council meeting live at the City’s website:
www.palmdesert.gov under the “Council Agenda” link at the top of the homepage, or on
the City’s YouTube Channel.
OPTIONS FOR PARTICIPATING IN THIS MEETING:
If unable to attend the meeting in person, you may choose from the following options:
OPTION 1: VIA EMAIL
Send your comments by email to: CouncilMeetingComments@palmdesert.gov.
Emails received prior to 10:00 a.m. on the day of the City Council meeting will be made part of the
record and distributed to the City Council. Emails will not be read aloud at the meeting.
OPTION 2: LIVE VIA ZOOM
Access via palmdesert.gov/zoom or zoom.us, click “Join Meeting” and enter Webinar ID 833
6744 9572.
1.
OPTION 3: LIVE VIA TELEPHONE
(213) 338-8477 and enter Meeting ID 833 6744 9572 followed by #.1.
Indicate that you are a participant by pressing # to continue.2.
During the meeting, press *9 to add yourself to the queue and wait for the Mayor or City
Clerk to announce your name/phone number. Press *6 to unmute your line and limit your
comments to three minutes.
3.
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER - STUDY SESSION
2.STUDY SESSION TOPICS
2.a Goal Setting Session 2024 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Review progress on 2023 goals and provide input for 2024 goals.
3.PUBLIC COMMENT FOR CLOSED SESSION ITEMS ONLY
This time has been set aside for members of the public to address the City
Council on items contained only on the Closed Session Agenda within the three-
minute time limit. Speakers may utilize one of the three options listed on the first
page of this agenda.
4.RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
5.CLOSED SESSION AGENDA
The following items will be considered in closed session:
5.a Public Employee Performance Evaluation pursuant to California
Government Code Section 54957
Title: City Manager
6.ADJOURNMENT
City Council Study Session
Page 2 of 64
7.PUBLIC NOTICES
NOTE: Pursuant to Assembly Bill 2449, this meeting may be conducted by
teleconference. Study Session is accessible in person or on the City’s website:
www.palmdesert.gov under the Council Agenda link at the top of the page.
Agenda Related Materials: Pursuant to Government Code §54957.5(b)(2) the
designated office for inspection of records in connection with this meeting is the
Office of the City Clerk, Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive,
Palm Desert. Staff reports for all agenda items considered in open session, and
documents provided to a majority of the legislative bodies are available for
public inspection at City Hall and on the City’s website at www.palmdesert.gov
by clicking “Council Agenda” at the top of the page.
Americans with Disabilities Act: It is the intention of the City of Palm Desert to
comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in all respects. If, as an
attendee or a participant at this meeting, or in meetings on a regular basis, you
will need special assistance beyond what is normally provided, the City will
attempt to accommodate you in every reasonable manner. Please contact the
Office of the City Clerk, (760) 346-0611, at least 48 hours prior to the meeting to
inform us of your needs and to determine if accommodation is feasible.
AFFIDAVIT OF POSTING
I, Níamh M. Ortega, Assistant City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, do hereby
certify, under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California, that the
foregoing agenda for the Palm Desert City Council, Successor Agency for the
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency, and Housing Authority, was posted on the
City Hall bulletin board and City website www.palmdesert.gov no less than 72
hours prior to the meeting.
/S/ Níamh M. Ortega
Assistant City Clerk
City Council Study Session
Page 3 of 64
Page 4 of 63
CITY OF PALM DESERT
2024 GOAL SETTING SESSION
February 7, 2024, at 12:00 p.m.
Palm Desert Council Chamber
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
__________________________________________________________________________
12:00 p.m. City Manager Comments
12:05 p.m. Update on 2023 City Council Goals
1. California State University Palm Desert Campus – Eric Ceja
2. Desert Willow Strategy – Eric Ceja
3. Business Recruitment – Eric Ceja
4. North Sphere Planning – Richard Cannone/Eric Ceja
5. Mall Redevelopment – Todd Hileman
6. Broadband Master Plan – Eric Ceja
7. Environmental Initiatives – Amy Lawrence
8. North Sphere Park – Marin Alvarez/Richard Cannone
9. Public Safety Improvements – Chris Escobedo
10. Active Transportation Projects – Jess Culpeper
12:35 p.m. Councilmember Presentations on 2024 Candidate Goals
1. Councilmember Kelly
2. Councilmember Trubee
3. Councilmember Nestande
4. Mayor Pro Tem Harnik
5. Mayor Quintanilla
1:05 p.m. Brief Discussion on 2024 Candidate Goals
1:15 p.m. Break/Straw Poll Vote
1:30 p.m. Review Results of Straw Poll Vote and Identify Selected Goals
1:50 p.m. Break
2:00 p.m. Closed Session - City Manager Evaluation
Page 5 of 63
Page 6 of 63
Palm Desert City Council
Goal Setting Session
F e b r u a r y 7 , 2 0 2 4
Page 7 of 63
WHY ARE WE HERE?
Review progress on
2023 Goals
Receive input & direction
for 2024 Goals
Page 8 of 63
RECAP 2023: CSU Palm Desert Campus
Advocate for the creation of a Cal State University Palm Desert Campus or other education-
related uses on the land donated by the City for this purpose.
NEXT STEPS
Secured $79 million in State funding dedicated to
new building improvements at the Palm Desert
campus.
The new Student Services building was approved
by the CSU Board of Trustees in September 2023,
and the preparation of construction drawings is
underway. Construction plans must be reviewed
and approved by the Division of the State
Architect prior to commencing constructionPriority One Coachella Valley (P1CV) and City staff
remained in contact with leadership at CSUSB-
PDC to determine timing for improvements and
construction of the new Student Services Building.Student Services Advisory Committee is
exploring fundraising and sponsorships for other
site improvements including a new clock tower.
Two Councilmembers, City Manager, and
Economic Development Director were appointed
to participate in the “Palm Desert Student Services
Building Community Advisory Committee,” which
is charged with guiding the efforts on new
building improvements at the campus.
Construction of the Student Services Building is
anticipated from summer 2025 through the end
of 2027 with building occupancy in 2028.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 9 of 63
Develop a strategy for the disposition and development of the remaining Desert Willow
properties.
RECAP 2023: Desert Willow Strategy
NEXT STEPS
On June 23, 2023, the City Council adopted a series of
resolutions declaring the remaining vacant parcels
at Desert Willow (Parcels C, D, and E) as surplus and
to be disposed of through the SLA process.
The City is working through the SLA process with a
developer for acquisition of Parcels C, D, and E and
anticipates completing the SLA process in Q1 2024
pending approval by the Department of Housing
and Community Development.
Final design of the new parking lot, with future
expansion for parks/open space, on Parcel A of
Desert Willow. This parking lot was substantially
completed and open for us in December 2023.
A market study for the remaining vacant parcels
was completed and included with the Notice of
Availability for Desert Willow Parcels C, D, and E,
with the intent of encouraging proposals to meet
the market demand study.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 10 of 63
Develop a plan to identify and recruit retail, entertainment, and other businesses that will
contribute to Palm Desert’s existing unique shopping and entertainment offerings.
RECAP 2023: Business Recruitment
NEXT STEPS
Staff attended the International Council of Shopping
Centers Conference in May 2023 to meet with three
retail recruitment strategy firms and have received
scope of services from each of the firms.
Development of the plans identified is expected to
take 9-12 months and will include outreach to the
local business community, councilmembers, staff,
and residents. The plan is expected to be in front of
the City Council prior to September 2024.
Awarded contract to “The Retail Coach” on
November 16, 2023, for business recruitment
services. The contract term is through 2024 with an
option for the City to extend it one additional year.
Initial kick-off meeting held with “The Retail Coach”
in December 2023 with direction given to develop a
“gap analysis,” trade-area psychographics profile
and competing community analysis. Direction was
also given to identify potential regional and fly-
market operators that are in expansion mode and
which may be viable businesses in Palm Desert.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Receipt and review of gap analysis and potential
national and regional business recruitment strategy
Q2 2024.
Staff and TRC are strategizing on a plan that includes
meeting with potential operators at the upcoming
ICSC Conferences in Monterey, CA (March 2024) and
Las Vegas, NV (May 2024).
Page 11 of 63
Analyze the recommendations of the CBRE study for potential changes in land use patterns
in the North Sphere.
RECAP 2023: North Sphere Planning
NEXT STEPS
Awarded contract for Objective Design Standards for
residential and mixed-use development. Based on
input from community engagement meetings, and
Study Sessions with the Planning Commission,
Architectural Review Commission, and City Council,
published a comprehensive set of design standards
which implements CBRE housing goals. The adoption
of these standard will occur in early 2024.
Awarded contract to update the University
Neighborhood Specific Plan (UNSP) modifying land
use intensities/densities for residential uses, including
affordable housing, a town center with commercial
uses, updated streetscape, circulation and access,
and a regional park. The UNSP update will coincide
with the planning efforts for the North Sphere
Regional Park to ensure a seamless and coordinated
planning effort.
Initiated zoning ordinance amendment to modify
land use table, including a change to make
personal storage facilities discretionary land uses
as recommended by the CBRE and 2023 broker’s
report.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Conduct a market study for the area north of Frank
Sinatra to determine the types of retail users that
could be supported in the area.
Page 12 of 63
Conduct market and land use planning studies to evaluate options for adaptive reuse of the
mall, resulting in a Mall Master Plan.
RECAP 2023: Mall Redevelopment
NEXT STEPS
City acquired a 7.4-acres parcel inclusive of the
former Sear’s building and parking areas.
City staff are looking at short-term specialty leasing
options (leasing of City-owned parking areas) to
recoup monies spend on CAM charges.
Met with Pacific Retail Capital Partners (PRCP) to
discuss their possible acquisition of the mall and
to ensure the City’s and PRCP vision for use and
redevelopment of the site are aligned.
City staff is engaged with PRCP to better understand
their timelines for operating the property. PRCP is
establishing management protocols to work with
existing businesses and working on new leases. A new
General Manager is in place and full ownership and
operations are now under PRCP.City staff remains engaged with CBRE to maintain
tenant relationships, identify additional tenants,
and assist through any redevelopment
discussions.
Anticipate more robust discussions with PRCP about
redevelopment in Q2/Q3 2024. Once a redevelopment
strategy is agreed to, in principle, entitlements for a
Specific Plan and Environmental documents will be
submitted for City Council and public consideration.
The anticipated timeline for this is Q4 2024/Q1 2025.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 13 of 63
Develop a Broadband Master Plan that assesses whether and how the City can enhance connectivity
for businesses and residents, while working with, and factoring in the work accomplished by federal,
state, and regional resources.
RECAP 2023: Broadband Master Plan
NEXT STEPS
City acquired a 7.4-acres parcel inclusive of the
former Sear’s building and parking areas.
Anticipated City Council adoption of the Broadband
Master Plan is March 2024.
In December 2023, City staff conducted an
interview with Arcadis to determine the feasibility
of a partnership for build-out and operations of a
broadband network. Arcadas stated that they are
interested but they will need time to do their own
market research into the area once the City’s
master plan is adopted.
Release new RFP to identify partners, and negotiate
terms, for implementation of the Broadband Master
Plan.
Held a second City Council Study Session with HR
Green regarding the Broadband Master Plan on
January 11, 2024.
Research grant opportunities and apply as
appropriate.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 14 of 63
Implementation of the 5-year plan of Environmental Initiatives including the following:
environmentally friendly landscaping, green building materials, solar, alternative fuel vehicles for the
City fleet, water and energy conservation, and recycling. Work with the Resources Preservation and
Enhancement Committee to implement initiatives.
RECAP 2023: Environmental Initiatives
NEXT STEPS
Implemented Environmental Initiatives Plan and
began submitting quarterly reports to City Council.
Work with staff from various departments and the
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
to evaluate and implement initiatives.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Continue quarterly reporting on Environmental
Initiatives Plan to the City Council.
Hire a consultant to conduct GHG inventory and
prepare a formal Climate Action Plan.
Page 15 of 63
Gather community input, design, and build a community and regional park in north Palm Desert.
RECAP 2023: North Sphere Park
NEXT STEPS
Community Open House meetings were held on
December 3, 2022, January 14, and August 5, 2023.Final construction plans for the north Palm Desert
Community Park are to be completed in Q4 2024.
Conceptual design developed and presented to
the Parks & Recreation Committee, Planning
Commission, Architectural Review Commission,
Resource Preservation and Enhancement
Committee, Cultural Arts Committee, HOAs in the
North Sphere and the City Council. Initial feedback
incorporated into design.
Planning consultant to work with Interwest on
regional park location (Portola & Frank Sinatra).
Final conceptual design and cost
estimating/budget was presented and appoved
by the City Council in December 2023.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 16 of 63
Explore new technology, review budgets, and gain efficiency for improved public safety
services. Conduct a review of current law enforcement and fire services contracts.
RECAP 2023: Public Safety Improvements
NEXT STEPS
The City Council approved an agreement for the
4th fire station construction management and
independent estimator. FS 102 is on track to being
brought online in fall 2025.
Update the City Council on metrics of the ALPR
system and Palm Desert Sheriff staffing model. The
City’s transparency portal is published monthly and
included in the Weekly Administrative Report.
Phase 2 of the ALPR system (102 cameras) was
fully installed and a new three-year agreement
for law enforcements services with Riverside
County Sheriff’s Department was approved by the
City Council.
Update the City Council on the City’s enhanced
emergency services program scheduled for Spring 2024.
City staff and the Emergency Services
Coordinator responded to tropical storm Hilary in
a proactive and effective manner. Currently, staff
is working on the FEMA reimbursement following
the Presidents declaration of a federal disaster.
Review calls for service, response times, and police
staffing level additions through the Fiscal Year
2024/25 budget process.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 17 of 63
Analyze relevant studies to develop a 5-year Active Transportation Project plan that includes opportunities
to enhance CV Link, PD Link/bike lanes, and incorporate these projects into the 5-year CIP budget.
RECAP 2023: Active Transportation Projects
NEXT STEPS
Completed conceptual plans for Walk and Roll
Phase II
Commence the construction of Monterey & Fred Waring
and Haystack & Hwy 74 Intersection Modifications projects.
Commissioned the redesign of various aspects of
PD Link Phase II.
Finalize design and commence with the construction of
the Haystack Road Traffic Calming Improvements Phase
II project, which includes considering alternate bike lane
designs and pedestrian crosswalks.
Held Community meetings to receive input on the
Haystack Traffic Calming project
Finalize the progressive design/build specifications for
Walk & Roll (Phase II).
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Began the conceptual plans of Walk & Roll
(Phase III).
Finalize the design of the PD Link Phase II project for
construction.
Release Design-Build RFP for Walk & Roll (Phase II).
Page 18 of 63
Member Priority 1 Priority 2 Priority 3 Priority 4
Kelly Synergize existing goals
Nestande CSU Palm Desert Annexation North of I-10 Mall Redevelopment
Trubee Traffic Enforcement Farmers Market Assessment of Spending
on Consultants
Feasibility of STR
Development
Harnik Economic Development Health & Environment Parks
Quintanilla CSU Palm Desert Resident Emergency
Response Management
Streamline
Communication
2024 Candidate Goals Summary
Page 19 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Synergize Existing Goals
(Continuation)While this has been done to some extent, the time is ripe to make it a dominant focus.
Justification:
The redevelopment of the Mall and re-examination of downtown zoning are highly consequential to the City’s future and
we MUST accomplish them with full attention to existing goals: 1) Education: Can anything be sited at the Mall? 2)
Sustainability: Microgrid at the Mall? Transportation hub? 3) Economic Diversity: How can these two projects stimulate
UNIQUE local business offerings (possibly working with iHub start-ups? 4) Housing: Mixed use at the Mall, aiding retail and
taking some pressure off less-well-suited locations.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Kelly
Page 20 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 CSU Palm Desert Campus
(Continuation)
Continued efforts for the creation of a Cal State University Palm Desert campus or other
education-related uses on the 170-acres the City provided for this purpose.
Justification: Education is the foundation for future growth and stability in Palm Desert and our region.
02 Annexation North of I-10
(Continuation)Work with stakeholders to explore annexation of the areas north of the I-10 freeway.
Justification:
This area is in our sphere of influence and our City needs to control development. I have had this as a priority for some
years. With the Arena now built under Riverside County jurisdiction, it could have been part of Palm Desert. Time is of the
essence.
03 Mall Redevelopment
(Continuation)Continue to evaluate options for adaptive reuse of the Mall.
Justification:It is the center of our region and key to economic stability and growth.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Nestande
Page 21 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Traffic Enforcement
(Continuation)Finalize implementation of increased traffic enforcement within our City.
Justification: Complaints from residents as well as first hand observations.
02 Farmers Market
(Continuation)
Double the number of vendors and foot traffic at our Farmers Market. May require
reducing the number of markets from two to one as well as move of venue.
Justification:Farmers Markets provide a valuable sense of community as well as an alternative from corporate manufactured produce
and food. They promote good health and supporting Farmers Markets is a stated goal of our General Plan.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Trubee
Page 22 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Assessment of our Spending on
Consultants
Provide an assessment of spending on consultants measured both in total dollars as
well as a percentage of our budget for a 5-10 year period.
Justification:Concern voiced by some residents. In addition, I would like to put it into perspective for my own edification. I want to
ensure that we are getting maximum value for our dollars.
04 Feasibility of Creating STR-only
Development
To capture TOT revenue for the City and compete with our neighboring cities who
have more lax STR policies.
Justification:None provided.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Trubee
Page 23 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Economic Development
(Continuation)
Explore and develop approaches to foster relationships and clear communication with
land owners and brokers to work towards common goals aligned with PD vision. Research
possible motivators/incentives for land-owners and brokers that will achieve PD’s goals.
Justification: Palm Desert’s main source of revenue is sales tax. The commercial offerings must be unique and high quality while lifting
the image of the community and motivating visitors and residents to shop and stay in Palm Desert.
02 Health & Environment
(Continuation)
Continue work to create an environmentally healthy community that also support
personal health.
Justification:Our community members are a great asset and their health is of great importance. Additionally, a healthy environment is
attractive to new home owners and visitors.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Pro Tem Harnik
Page 24 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Park Initiatives
(Continuation)Keep working on the park initiatives.
Justification: Quality parks and open space are foundational to high quality of life and character of our community.
04 Sales Tax Initiative Public education and information about the City’s budget and a sales tax initiative in
November 2024.
Justification:None.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Pro Tem Harnik
Page 25 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 CSU Palm Desert Campus
(Continuation)
Continue to lobby CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia, who started in October 2023. To my
understanding, previous lobbying efforts did not have students as part of any delegation.
Student stories are much more compelling, especially to other first-generation students, as
Dr. Garcia.
Justification: Ongoing priority.
02 Resident Emergency
Response Management
Increase opportunities for members of the community, residents and business owners alike,
to have access to CERT training. This training should be offered in different areas of the City
and at different hours of the day.
Justification:
Watching residents evacuated on rafts and with heavy machinery highlighted that when emergencies arise, we may not
be able to get to communities easily. CERT has been made available in the past, and we have the opportunity to get more
people signed up now that they have seen the potential for damage and the types of emergencies we could face. We
have the opportunity to expand on our current emergency response plan. Grant funding is available and due on March 4,
2024. We must apply and bring the resources to Palm Desert. We can explore partnerships with DSUSD to use the high
school gym and train large groups, or smaller groups at HOAs.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Quintanilla
Page 26 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Streamline Information Make effective use of all means of communication between Palm Desert and the
community by streamlining information.
Justification:
When we say the information is on our website, we need to do more to ensure that information is available, accurate, and
accessible without digging around for it.
1) Our website is not mobile friendly nor ADA compliant.
2) Discover Palm Desert is not maintained to reflect events taking place in Palm Desert, in favor of highlighting
performances and shows in other parts of the region.
3) The Palm Desert app is great for residents to communicate with the City, and not very good for residents to receive
information. The events page redirects to Discover Palm Desert, and the calendar feature only shows Sunday through
Thursday as a default, and need to scroll over, making it look like we don’t have meetings or events on those days.
4) The Brightside needs a new format that gives ample space for upcoming events and substantive information. It should
be a newsletter, and it is 4 pages bulletin board, and only 3.5 pages of a true newsletter.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Quintanilla
Page 27 of 63
1. CSU Palm Desert Campus Nestande/Quintanilla
2. Economic Development Projects
a) Desert Willow Strategy
b) Business Recruitment
c) North Sphere Planning
Harnik
Farmers Market (Trubee)
3. Mall Redevelopment Nestande
4. Broadband Master Plan
5. Environmental Initiatives Health & Environment (Harnik)
6. North Sphere Park Park Initiatives (Harnik)
7. Public Safety Improvements Traffic Enforcement (Trubee)
8. Active Transportation Projects
A. Annexation North of I-10 Nestande
B. Assessment of Spending on Consultants Trubee
C. Feasibility of STR-Only Development Trubee
D. Sales Tax Initiative Harnik
D. Resident Emergency Response Management Quintanilla
E. Streamline Communication Quintanilla
At A Glance - City Council Goals
* Councilmember Kelly - Synergize Existing Goals
Page 28 of 63
Department Consultant
Contract
Amount Scope/Services
Capital Projects Dokken Engineering Inc. $325,509 Bridge Preventative Maintenance Design / Grant / Program Development
Capital Projects Egan Civil Inc.$8,405 Engineering Services for City Hall ADA Parking Lot Improvements
Capital Projects Engineering Resources of SoCal (ERSC)$274,254 Professional Design Services
Capital Projects Engineering Resources of SoCal (ERSC)$433,143 Professional Engineering and Design Services for Haystack Channel Improvements
Capital Projects Engineering Resources of SoCal (ERSC)$275,254 Design of the North Sphere Fire Station Offsite Improvements
Capital Projects HR Green $244,668 Professional Design Services
Capital Projects HR Green $49,690 Desert Willow Tee Box Leveling and Turf Reduction
Capital Projects Hurdzan $50,000 Design Services for Renovation of Firecliff Tees and Greens
Capital Projects Interwest Consulting Group Inc $526,115 Lupine Plaza Design Services
Capital Projects KOA Corp $1,049,451 ATP Project Design Services/ Haystack Traffic Calming Phase 1/2 / PD Link Phase 1/2
Capital Projects MARRS/Anser Advisory/Maas $11,739,394 Construction Management, Inspections, Plan Check, Constructibility Review
Capital Projects MBI Engineering $250,000 Bike and Pedestrian Gap Analysis, Conceptual Design Services
Capital Projects MBI Engineering $12,130 Section 29 Retention Basin - Plan Check and Easements
Capital Projects Omnis $31,600 Parking Lot Evaluations
Capital Projects PBK Architects $546,500 Professional Design Services
Capital Projects Terra Nova $6,000 Section 29 Retention Basin - CEQA Consultant
Capital Projects TJKM Tansportation Consultants $280,565 HSIP Cycle 10 Traffic Signal Improvements
Capital Projects TKE Engineering $200,000 Engineering and Land Development Services
Capital Projects/Housing Bureau Veritas Techincal Assess.$96,025 Housing Authority Facility Conditions Assessment
City Manager CityNet $250,831 Homeless Street Outreach Services
City Manager Coachella Valley Rescue Mission $45,000 Dedicated Shelter Beds
City Manager CVAG $100,000 CV 200 Housing Program
City Manager Deveau Burr Group $12,250 Surplus Land Act Assistance
City Manager Gonsalves & Sons $36,000 State Lobbyist Services
City Manager HR Green $91,375 Phase H Engineering Design Manual
City Manager HR Green $888,792 Engineering and Land Development Services
City Manager LCW $5,810 Legal Trainings for Supervisors
City Manager Maas Companies Inc $755,535 Project Management and Consulting Services, On-Call Construction Management Services
City Manager National Demographics Corp.$60,000 Redistricting Demographic Services
City Manager National Demographics Corp.$20,000 Demographic Services Related to Advisory Measure B
City Manager Nick Kittle $64,750 Employee Training (High Functioning Government)
City Manager NV5 $68,566 North Sphere Dry Utility Planning and Energy Infrastructure Analysis
City Manager Quality Code $12,000 Municipal Code Codification Services
City Manager Tripepi Smith $60,000 Redistricting Public Education and Outreach Support
Development Services Deckard $69,400 Short Term Rental Licensing, Payment, and Enforcement
Development Services Friedman Imagaging $23,000 Scanning of Archive Files
Development Services Holistic $32,000 Permit Center Supplemental Staffing Support & Workflow/Process Development
Development Services HR Green $300,000 Building Plan Check Services
Development Services Interwest $264,880 University Neighborhood Specific Plan Update
Development Services JKA Architects $149,774 Objective Design Standards
Economic Development CBRE $60,000 On-call Real Estate Services
Page 1 of 3 Printed on 2/1/2024Page 29 of 63
Department Consultant
Contract
Amount Scope/Services
Economic Development Circuit Transit, Inc $219,241 El Paseo Courtesy Cart Services
Economic Development D&B Visions $60,000
Field Consultant to Assist with SB1383 Commercial Organics Recycling Enforcement, Edible Food Recovery
Contract Review, and Overall Recycling Education for Businesses and Multi-family Complexes
Economic Development FG Creative $18,000 EPBID & El Paseo Merchant Outreach
Economic Development FIND Food Bank $97,150 Edible Food Recovery Management for Tier 1 and Tier 2 Food Generators
Economic Development HF&H $149,000
Solid Waste and Recycling Services Franchise Agreement Contract Management, SB 1383 Compliance, and
CalRecycle Reporting Assistance.
Economic Development HR Green $125,000 Broadband Feasibility
Economic Development Idea Peddler $360,000 Marketing, Social Media, and Public Relations
Economic Development Keyser Marston Associates $100,000
Evaluating the Financial Feasibility and Economic Impacts of Proposed Development in the City, including
Fiscal Analysis for Areas being Considered for Potential Annexation
Economic Development Kimley Horn $496,464 Rails Station Feasibility Study and Informational Sessions
Economic Development Prest Vuksic Greenwood Architects $392,000 Assist with Discover Palm Desert
Economic Development Rising Realty $78,480 Property Management Services for the Park View Office Complex
Economic Development The Retail Coach $55,000 Retail Market Analysis & Recruitment
Economic Development Willdan Financial Services $30,000
Special Tax Consulting Services for the Establishment of Service Community Facilities District for the Shadow
Ridge Development
Finance Avenu Muniservices LLC $46,900 STARS Svcs 2023 4 Quarters, Sales Tax Measure Consulting
Finance Avenu Muniservices LLC $1,180 SUTA Services
Finance Burke Williams & Sorensen LLP $4,488 Legal Services
Finance California Municipal Statistics $550 22/23 ACFR Statistical Data Preparation
Finance Clearsource Financial Consulting $24,480 Development Service Fee Study Consulting Services
Finance Del Rio Advisors LLC $3,000 Municipal Advisor
Finance Ebix Inc $9,990 Insurance Management Services
Finance Forvis, LLP $4,700 State Controller's Report Preparation (Street Report and Financial Transactions Report)
Finance Full Circle Group LLC $9,087 Coaching & Leadership Sessions
Finance Hdl Coren & Cone $695 22/23 ACFR Statistical Data Preparation
Finance Macleod Watts, Inc. $7,750 GASB 75/OPEB Actuarial Valuation Services (Full valuation biennial)
Finance Nichols Consulting $2,500 Consulting Services for Annual Claims SB 90 FY 2023-24
Finance PFM Asset Management LLC $40,000 Investment Management and Advisory Services FY 2023/24
Finance Shuster Advisory Group LLC $42,000 Consultant Services for Employee 401a and 457 Deferred Comp Plans
Finance The Ramsey Group $9,570 CDBG Consulting Services
Finance Townsend Public Affairs Inc $71,250 Grant Management Services
Finance Willdan Financial Services $16,342 Comprehensice Fee Study & Full Cost Allocation
Finance Willdan Financial Services $11,838 Community Facilities District Special Tax Capacity and Feasibility Analysis
Housing Amber C. Stanford, a Sole Proprietor dba Air Quality Testing Services$9,690 Hazardous Materials Survey and Report
Housing CBRE Group, Inc.$4,000 Real Estate Appraisal Services
Housing Holt Architects, Inc $36,495 Architectural Design Consultant
Housing Keyser Marston Associates Inc $50,720 Financial Analysis of Private Affordable Housing - Palm Communities
Housing Keyser Marston Associates Inc $5,000 SB 341 Annual Compliance Report
Information Technology ClientFirst $32,125 Consulting Services For Phone System Upgrade
Page 2 of 3 Printed on 2/1/2024Page 30 of 63
Department Consultant
Contract
Amount Scope/Services
Information Technology Park Consulting Services $481,500 Project Management and Consulting Services, Clariti Implementation
Information Technology ReDesign $24,000 Security Consulting Services
Information Technology Speridian $649,080 Implementation Services - Clariti
Library EdTechnologyFunds $10,500 Assist with Accessing Federal eRate Funding and All Reporting
Library Margaret Sullivan Studios $194,000 Community Outreach, Service Model, Space Planning, FF&E Procurement
Public Safety Flock Safety $255,000 Automated License Plate Recognition Annual Subscription
Public Safety Mindy Esqueda $5,000 Emergency Services Training
Public Safety NBS Consulting $17,500 Ground Emergency Medical Transportation Data Collection and CMS Cost Reporting
Public Safety Nichols Consulting $8,500 Annual Claims for SB 90 State-mandated Costs
Public Works Advantec $100,610 Professional Engineering and Design Services for a Traffic Signal at Cook St and Market Place Dr
Public Works Alta Planning + Design $950,000 Develop Palm Desert Vision Zero Strategy
Public Works BPDFest.com $20,000 Assist with the Development and Marketing Pitch for an Economic Development Concept
Public Works Bureau Veritas Techincal Assess.$229,986 Building Inventory and Asset Management Services
Public Works CASC Engineering $50,000 MS4 Permit Inspections and NPDES Support Services
Public Works Disability Access Consultants $49,500 On-call and Fixed Services for ADA Compliance
Public Works Earth Systems Pacific $50,000 On-Call Materials Testing
Public Works Econolite Control Products $35,000 Traffic Signal Hardware Upgrade Program
Public Works Egan Civil, Inc $50,000 On-Call Engineering and Project Management Services
Public Works Family YMCA of The Desert $310,652 Professional Services for Management and Staffing of The Palm Desert Aquatic Center
Public Works Hermann Design Group $18,250 Desert Willow Solar Shade Renderings
Public Works Hermann Design Group $315,100 Desert Willow Greens, Tee Box, and Turf Reduction
Public Works Holt Architects $40,600 Fire Fighter Restroom Remodel Project
Public Works In-Site Landscape Architecture, Inc. $25,350 Palma Village Park Site Improvements
Public Works Interwest $22,773 North Sphere Regional Park Project
Public Works Kimley Horn $315,000 On-call Traffic Engineering Services (e.g., Traffic Studies, Siganl Timing, and Intersection Design)
Public Works Kimley Horn and Associates $315,415 Traffic Operations and Capacity Improvements
Public Works NAI Consulting $50,000 On-Call Engineering and Project Management Services
Public Works Ray Lopez Associates $100,000 Desert Willow Perimeter Landscape Renovation Phase III Project
Public Works Scan2bIM $17,576 Greens/Tee Box Renovation and Turf Reduction at Desert Willow Golf Resort
Public Works Selbert Perkins Design $107,500 Wayfinding Master Plan (Planning and Design Services)
Public Works Sladden Engineering $50,000 On-Call Materials Testing and Special Inspection Services
Public Works The Altum Group $120,340 Desert Willow Parcel A Parking Lot
Public Works The Altum Group $136,933 Engineering and Design For ADA Improvements at Cahuilla Hills Park
Public Works Trans Tech Engineering Associates $75,000 On-Call Traffic Signal Engineering Services
Page 3 of 3 Printed on 2/1/2024Page 31 of 63
Page 32 of 63
Palm Desert City Council
Goal Setting Session
F e b r u a r y 7 , 2 0 2 4
Page 33 of 63
WHY ARE WE HERE?
Review progress on
2023 Goals
Receive input & direction
for 2024 Goals
Page 34 of 63
RECAP 2023: CSU Palm Desert Campus
Advocate for the creation of a Cal State University Palm Desert Campus or other education-
related uses on the land donated by the City for this purpose.
NEXT STEPS
Secured $79 million in State funding dedicated to
new building improvements at the Palm Desert
campus.
The new Student Services building was approved
by the CSU Board of Trustees in September 2023,
and the preparation of construction drawings is
underway. Construction plans must be reviewed
and approved by the Division of the State
Architect prior to commencing constructionPriority One Coachella Valley (P1CV) and City staff
remained in contact with leadership at CSUSB-
PDC to determine timing for improvements and
construction of the new Student Services Building.Student Services Advisory Committee is
exploring fundraising and sponsorships for other
site improvements including a new clock tower.
Two Councilmembers, City Manager, and
Economic Development Director were appointed
to participate in the “Palm Desert Student Services
Building Community Advisory Committee,” which
is charged with guiding the efforts on new
building improvements at the campus.
Construction of the Student Services Building is
anticipated from summer 2025 through the end
of 2027 with building occupancy in 2028.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 35 of 63
Develop a strategy for the disposition and development of the remaining Desert Willow
properties.
RECAP 2023: Desert Willow Strategy
NEXT STEPS
On June 23, 2023, the City Council adopted a series of
resolutions declaring the remaining vacant parcels
at Desert Willow (Parcels C, D, and E) as surplus and
to be disposed of through the SLA process.
The City is working through the SLA process with a
developer for acquisition of Parcels C, D, and E and
anticipates completing the SLA process in Q1 2024
pending approval by the Department of Housing
and Community Development.
Final design of the new parking lot, with future
expansion for parks/open space, on Parcel A of
Desert Willow. This parking lot was substantially
completed and open for us in December 2023.
A market study for the remaining vacant parcels
was completed and included with the Notice of
Availability for Desert Willow Parcels C, D, and E,
with the intent of encouraging proposals to meet
the market demand study.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 36 of 63
Develop a plan to identify and recruit retail, entertainment, and other businesses that will
contribute to Palm Desert’s existing unique shopping and entertainment offerings.
RECAP 2023: Business Recruitment
NEXT STEPS
Staff attended the International Council of Shopping
Centers Conference in May 2023 to meet with three
retail recruitment strategy firms and have received
scope of services from each of the firms.
Development of the plans identified is expected to
take 9-12 months and will include outreach to the
local business community, councilmembers, staff,
and residents. The plan is expected to be in front of
the City Council prior to September 2024.
Awarded contract to “The Retail Coach” on
November 16, 2023, for business recruitment
services. The contract term is through 2024 with an
option for the City to extend it one additional year.
Initial kick-off meeting held with “The Retail Coach”
in December 2023 with direction given to develop a
“gap analysis,” trade-area psychographics profile
and competing community analysis. Direction was
also given to identify potential regional and fly-
market operators that are in expansion mode and
which may be viable businesses in Palm Desert.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Receipt and review of gap analysis and potential
national and regional business recruitment strategy
Q2 2024.
Staff and TRC are strategizing on a plan that includes
meeting with potential operators at the upcoming
ICSC Conferences in Monterey, CA (March 2024) and
Las Vegas, NV (May 2024).
Page 37 of 63
Analyze the recommendations of the CBRE study for potential changes in land use patterns
in the North Sphere.
RECAP 2023: North Sphere Planning
NEXT STEPS
Awarded contract for Objective Design Standards for
residential and mixed-use development. Based on
input from community engagement meetings, and
Study Sessions with the Planning Commission,
Architectural Review Commission, and City Council,
published a comprehensive set of design standards
which implements CBRE housing goals. The adoption
of these standard will occur in early 2024.
Awarded contract to update the University
Neighborhood Specific Plan (UNSP) modifying land
use intensities/densities for residential uses, including
affordable housing, a town center with commercial
uses, updated streetscape, circulation and access,
and a regional park. The UNSP update will coincide
with the planning efforts for the North Sphere
Regional Park to ensure a seamless and coordinated
planning effort.
Initiated zoning ordinance amendment to modify
land use table, including a change to make
personal storage facilities discretionary land uses
as recommended by the CBRE and 2023 broker’s
report.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Conduct a market study for the area north of Frank
Sinatra to determine the types of retail users that
could be supported in the area.
Page 38 of 63
Conduct market and land use planning studies to evaluate options for adaptive reuse of the
mall, resulting in a Mall Master Plan.
RECAP 2023: Mall Redevelopment
NEXT STEPS
City acquired a 7.4-acres parcel inclusive of the
former Sear’s building and parking areas.
City staff are looking at short-term specialty leasing
options (leasing of City-owned parking areas) to
recoup monies spend on CAM charges.
Met with Pacific Retail Capital Partners (PRCP) to
discuss their possible acquisition of the mall and
to ensure the City’s and PRCP vision for use and
redevelopment of the site are aligned.
City staff is engaged with PRCP to better understand
their timelines for operating the property. PRCP is
establishing management protocols to work with
existing businesses and working on new leases. A new
General Manager is in place and full ownership and
operations are now under PRCP.City staff remains engaged with CBRE to maintain
tenant relationships, identify additional tenants,
and assist through any redevelopment
discussions.
Anticipate more robust discussions with PRCP about
redevelopment in Q2/Q3 2024. Once a redevelopment
strategy is agreed to, in principle, entitlements for a
Specific Plan and Environmental documents will be
submitted for City Council and public consideration.
The anticipated timeline for this is Q4 2024/Q1 2025.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 39 of 63
Develop a Broadband Master Plan that assesses whether and how the City can enhance connectivity
for businesses and residents, while working with, and factoring in the work accomplished by federal,
state, and regional resources.
RECAP 2023: Broadband Master Plan
NEXT STEPS
Executed an agreement with HR Green to develop
a broadband study.
Anticipated City Council adoption of the Broadband
Master Plan is March 2024.
In December 2023, City staff conducted an
interview with Arcadis to determine the feasibility
of a partnership for build-out and operations of a
broadband network. Arcadas stated that they are
interested but they will need time to do their own
market research into the area once the City’s
master plan is adopted.
Release new RFP to identify partners, and negotiate
terms, for implementation of the Broadband Master
Plan.
Held a second City Council Study Session with HR
Green regarding the Broadband Master Plan on
January 11, 2024.
Research grant opportunities and apply as
appropriate.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 40 of 63
Implementation of the 5-year plan of Environmental Initiatives including the following:
environmentally friendly landscaping, green building materials, solar, alternative fuel vehicles for the
City fleet, water and energy conservation, and recycling. Work with the Resources Preservation and
Enhancement Committee to implement initiatives.
RECAP 2023: Environmental Initiatives
NEXT STEPS
Implemented Environmental Initiatives Plan and
began submitting quarterly reports to City Council.
Work with staff from various departments and the
Resource Preservation and Enhancement Committee
to evaluate and implement initiatives.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Continue quarterly reporting on Environmental
Initiatives Plan to the City Council.
Hire a consultant to conduct GHG inventory and
prepare a formal Climate Action Plan.
Page 41 of 63
Gather community input, design, and build a community and regional park in north Palm Desert.
RECAP 2023: North Sphere Park
NEXT STEPS
Community Open House meetings were held on
December 3, 2022, January 14, and August 5, 2023.Final construction plans for the north Palm Desert
Community Park are to be completed in Q4 2024.
Conceptual design developed and presented to
the Parks & Recreation Committee, Planning
Commission, Architectural Review Commission,
Resource Preservation and Enhancement
Committee, Cultural Arts Committee, HOAs in the
North Sphere and the City Council. Initial feedback
incorporated into design.
Planning consultant to work with Interwest on
regional park location (Portola & Frank Sinatra).
Final conceptual design and cost
estimating/budget was presented and appoved
by the City Council in December 2023.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 42 of 63
Explore new technology, review budgets, and gain efficiency for improved public safety
services. Conduct a review of current law enforcement and fire services contracts.
RECAP 2023: Public Safety Improvements
NEXT STEPS
The City Council approved an agreement for the
4th fire station construction management and
independent estimator. FS 102 is on track to being
brought online in fall 2025.
Update the City Council on metrics of the ALPR
system and Palm Desert Sheriff staffing model. The
City’s transparency portal is published monthly and
included in the Weekly Administrative Report.
Phase 2 of the ALPR system (102 cameras) was
fully installed and a new three-year agreement
for law enforcements services with Riverside
County Sheriff’s Department was approved by the
City Council.
Update the City Council on the City’s enhanced
emergency services program scheduled for Spring 2024.
City staff and the Emergency Services
Coordinator responded to tropical storm Hilary in
a proactive and effective manner. Currently, staff
is working on the FEMA reimbursement following
the Presidents declaration of a federal disaster.
Review calls for service, response times, and police
staffing level additions through the Fiscal Year
2024/25 budget process.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Page 43 of 63
Analyze relevant studies to develop a 5-year Active Transportation Project plan that includes opportunities
to enhance CV Link, PD Link/bike lanes, and incorporate these projects into the 5-year CIP budget.
RECAP 2023: Active Transportation Projects
NEXT STEPS
Completed conceptual plans for Walk and Roll
Phase II
Commence the construction of Monterey & Fred Waring
and Haystack & Hwy 74 Intersection Modifications projects.
Commissioned the redesign of various aspects of
PD Link Phase II.
Finalize design and commence with the construction of
the Haystack Road Traffic Calming Improvements Phase
II project, which includes considering alternate bike lane
designs and pedestrian crosswalks.
Held Community meetings to receive input on the
Haystack Traffic Calming project
Finalize the progressive design/build specifications for
Walk & Roll (Phase II) and issue the project RFP.
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
Began the conceptual plans of Walk & Roll
(Phase III).
Finalize the design of the PD Link Phase II project for
construction.
Page 44 of 63
Member Priority 1 Priority 2 Priority 3 Priority 4
Kelly Synergize existing goals
Nestande CSU Palm Desert Annexation North of I-10 Mall Redevelopment
Trubee Traffic Enforcement Farmers Market Assessment of Spending
on Consultants
Feasibility of STR
Development
Harnik Economic Development Health & Environment Parks Sales Tax
Initiative
Quintanilla CSU Palm Desert Resident Emergency
Response Management
Streamline
Communication
2024 Candidate Goals Summary
Page 45 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Synergize Existing Goals
(Continuation)While this has been done to some extent, the time is ripe to make it a dominant focus.
Justification:
The redevelopment of the Mall and re-examination of downtown zoning are highly consequential to the City’s future and
we MUST accomplish them with full attention to existing goals: 1) Education: Can anything be sited at the Mall? 2)
Sustainability: Microgrid at the Mall? Transportation hub? 3) Economic Diversity: How can these two projects stimulate
UNIQUE local business offerings (possibly working with iHub start-ups? 4) Housing: Mixed use at the Mall, aiding retail and
taking some pressure off less-well-suited locations.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Kelly
Page 46 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 CSU Palm Desert Campus
(Continuation)
Continued efforts for the creation of a Cal State University Palm Desert campus or other
education-related uses on the 170-acres the City provided for this purpose.
Justification: Education is the foundation for future growth and stability in Palm Desert and our region.
02 Annexation North of I-10
(Continuation)Work with stakeholders to explore annexation of the areas north of the I-10 freeway.
Justification:
This area is in our sphere of influence and our City needs to control development. I have had this as a priority for some
years. With the Arena now built under Riverside County jurisdiction, it could have been part of Palm Desert. Time is of the
essence.
03 Mall Redevelopment
(Continuation)Continue to evaluate options for adaptive reuse of the Mall.
Justification:It is the center of our region and key to economic stability and growth.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Nestande
Page 47 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Traffic Enforcement
(Continuation)Finalize implementation of increased traffic enforcement within our City.
Justification: Complaints from residents as well as first hand observations.
02 Farmers Market
(Continuation)
Double the number of vendors and foot traffic at our Farmers Market. May require
reducing the number of markets from two to one as well as move of venue.
Justification:Farmers Markets provide a valuable sense of community as well as an alternative from corporate manufactured produce
and food. They promote good health and supporting Farmers Markets is a stated goal of our General Plan.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Trubee
Page 48 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Assessment of our Spending on
Consultants
Provide an assessment of spending on consultants measured both in total dollars as
well as a percentage of our budget for a 5-10 year period.
Justification:Concern voiced by some residents. In addition, I would like to put it into perspective for my own edification. I want to
ensure that we are getting maximum value for our dollars.
04 Feasibility of Creating STR-only
Development
To capture TOT revenue for the City and compete with our neighboring cities who
have more lax STR policies.
Justification:None provided.
2024 Candidate Goals - Councilmember Trubee
Page 49 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 Economic Development
(Continuation)
Explore and develop approaches to foster relationships and clear communication with
land owners and brokers to work towards common goals aligned with PD vision. Research
possible motivators/incentives for land-owners and brokers that will achieve PD’s goals.
Justification: Palm Desert’s main source of revenue is sales tax. The commercial offerings must be unique and high quality while lifting
the image of the community and motivating visitors and residents to shop and stay in Palm Desert.
02 Health & Environment
(Continuation)
Continue work to create an environmentally healthy community that also support
personal health.
Justification:Our community members are a great asset and their health is of great importance. Additionally, a healthy environment is
attractive to new home owners and visitors.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Pro Tem Harnik
Page 50 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Park Initiatives
(Continuation)Keep working on the park initiatives.
Justification: Quality parks and open space are foundational to high quality of life and character of our community.
04 Sales Tax Initiative Public education and information about the City’s budget and a sales tax initiative in
November 2024.
Justification:None.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Pro Tem Harnik
Page 51 of 63
Priority Title Description
01 CSU Palm Desert Campus
(Continuation)
Continue to lobby CSU Chancellor Mildred Garcia, who started in October 2023. To my
understanding, previous lobbying efforts did not have students as part of any delegation.
Student stories are much more compelling, especially to other first-generation students, as
Dr. Garcia.
Justification: Ongoing priority.
02 Resident Emergency
Response Management
Increase opportunities for members of the community, residents and business owners alike,
to have access to CERT training. This training should be offered in different areas of the City
and at different hours of the day.
Justification:
Watching residents evacuated on rafts and with heavy machinery highlighted that when emergencies arise, we may not
be able to get to communities easily. CERT has been made available in the past, and we have the opportunity to get more
people signed up now that they have seen the potential for damage and the types of emergencies we could face. We
have the opportunity to expand on our current emergency response plan. Grant funding is available and due on March 4,
2024. We must apply and bring the resources to Palm Desert. We can explore partnerships with DSUSD to use the high
school gym and train large groups, or smaller groups at HOAs.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Quintanilla
Page 52 of 63
Priority Title Description
03 Streamline Information Make effective use of all means of communication between Palm Desert and the
community by streamlining information.
Justification:
When we say the information is on our website, we need to do more to ensure that information is available, accurate, and
accessible without digging around for it.
1) Our website is not mobile friendly nor ADA compliant.
2) Discover Palm Desert is not maintained to reflect events taking place in Palm Desert, in favor of highlighting
performances and shows in other parts of the region.
3) The Palm Desert app is great for residents to communicate with the City, and not very good for residents to receive
information. The events page redirects to Discover Palm Desert, and the calendar feature only shows Sunday through
Thursday as a default, and need to scroll over, making it look like we don’t have meetings or events on those days.
4) The Brightside needs a new format that gives ample space for upcoming events and substantive information. It should
be a newsletter, and it is 4 pages bulletin board, and only 3.5 pages of a true newsletter.
2024 Candidate Goals - Mayor Quintanilla
Page 53 of 63
1. CSU Palm Desert Campus Nestande/Quintanilla
2. Economic Development Projects
a) Desert Willow Strategy
b) Business Recruitment
c) North Sphere Planning
Harnik
Farmers Market (Trubee)
3. Mall Redevelopment Nestande
4. Broadband Master Plan
5. Environmental Initiatives Health & Environment (Harnik)
6. North Sphere Park Park Initiatives (Harnik)
7. Public Safety Improvements Traffic Enforcement (Trubee)
8. Active Transportation Projects
A. Annexation North of I-10 Nestande
B. Assessment of Spending on Consultants Trubee
C. Feasibility of STR-Only Development Trubee
D. Sales Tax Initiative Harnik
D. Resident Emergency Response Management Quintanilla
E. Streamline Communication Quintanilla
At A Glance - City Council Goals
* Councilmember Kelly - Synergize Existing Goals
Page 54 of 63
CITY OF PALM DESERT
CITY MANAGER’S OFFICE
INTEROFFICE MEMORANDUM
Date: February 7, 2024
To: Honorable Mayor and Councilmembers
From: Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk
Subject: City Council Goal Setting Study Session of February 7, 2024
Below you will find questions received from the Mayor or Councilmembers and answers provided by
City staff regarding tonight’s City Council meeting:
Goal Setting Session
Please note that the PowerPoint presentation has been revised to reflect the following changes:
1. Slide 8, Broadband Master Plan. The first accomplishment was a carryover from the Mall
Redevelopment slide. This has been corrected to “Execute an agreement with HR Green to
develop a broadband study.”
2. Slide 12, Active Transportation Projects. The 3rd and 5th bullet under Next Steps were
combined as follows, “Finalize the progressive design/build specifications for Walk & Roll
(Phase II) and issue the project RFP.”
3. Slide 13, 2024 Candidate Goals Summary. This slide has been updated to add Mayor Pro
Tem Harnik’s fourth candidate goal regarding “sales tax initiative.”
Q1: Business Recruitment - Will the gap analysis TRC will generate be presented well in
advance of the tax initiative discussions?
A1: The Retail Coach (TRC) is anticipated to complete the gap analysis in March 2024 in advance of
the tax initiative discussions.
Q2: Mall Redevelopment - How large are the events under consideration?
A2: Events under consideration include Farmer’s Market, additional food/produce stands, and
temporary leasing opportunities at the City-owned space. Events are not anticipated to be over
200 attendees at one time.
Q3: Candidate Goal related to STR Only Development - Will staff provide info on how
neighboring cities and cities outside the valley have boosted TOT without increasing the
number of STRs?
A3: At this point, Councilmember Trubee is requesting withdrawal of this candidate goal.
Page 55 of 63
02/07/2024 Question & Answer Memo
Page 2 of 3
Staff Updates on Candidate Goals
1. Traffic Enforcement: In December 2023, the City hosted the Valley Motor Enforcement Team,
which deployed 21 motorcycle enforcement officers from Palm Desert and neighboring Coachella
Valley cities. Subsequently, staff worked with the Sheriff’s Lieutenant on enhanced traffic, crime
suppression, and business district patrols that ran through December 31, 2024. The goal of the
enhanced services was to collect metrics on the most effective police resources to utilize in traffic
enforcement and crime suppression. Staff is utilizing this information as well as analyzing calls for
service and response times over the last 3 years to present recommendations to the City Council
for consideration in the development of the Fiscal Year 2024/25 budget.
2. Streamline Information/Communication: PalmDesert.gov - Staff has been working over the past
year to remedy accessibility issues on the City’s website, which currently has an accessibility
score of 86/100 as rated by a third-party vendor. Some of the issues with the site are due to the
Granicus platform on which the site is built. To address these concerns, staff is currently
researching a widget that can be added to the existing site that would remedy a number of ADA -
related concerns. For a long-term solution that would also make the site more mobile-friendly and
to enhance the search function, staff is actively working on upgrading the Granicus platform itself.
This is a multi-year project that will be brought to the City Council in the upcoming months for
budget approval.
Discover Palm Desert – The City’s tourism website forefronts Palm Desert hotels, restaurants,
and events, but is designed to be a comprehensive guide to the entire Coachella Valley. This
approach helps us rank higher on Google than other competing sites, so we draw more organic
traffic as we capture people searching for attractions outside Palm Desert. This plays on Palm
Desert’s geographical location as the hub of everything else that’s happening in the valley: when
you’re visiting the Coachella Valley, Palm Desert is the ideal place to stay because you can easily
reach everything else from here.
Palm Desert In Touch – The primary use of this app has been as a portal for residents to reach
out to the City, and less so as a broadcast channel for the City to reach residents. The calendar
limitations are due to the Granicus platform of PalmDesert.gov and will be addressed by
upgrading that website.
Brightside – Feedback the City has received indicates that the Community Pages insert in
BrightSide continues to be well utilized by the community to know what is happening with the
City’s partner organizations, many of which depend on BrightSide to reach a broader audience.
Consultants List
Q1: Gonsalves & Sons - What are the success metrics used, or is it a standing contract? How
much is left in the contract?
A1: We do not have any successful metrics for Gonsalves & Sons. This is a standing contract and
the retainer for their service is on an as needed basis. The retainer is renewed on an annual
basis and the current term ends June 30, 2024. There is a remaining balance of $15,000 on the
contract retainer.
Page 56 of 63
02/07/2024 Question & Answer Memo
Page 3 of 3
Q2: Deckard - Does staff feel that this has been a successful contract? How much time is
left?
A2: The Deckard contract has been in place for 13 months and has been very successful, especially
in notifying code compliance staff of unlicensed STRs. During that timeframe, we have issued
approximately 50 citations for unlicensed STR units that levied $256,670 in fines and have
collected $124,000 to date; the annual contract amount is $69,400. The contract is annual with
an option to renew; total duration 5 years.
Q3: National Demographics Corp. - Was this only as related to the ballot initiative as part of
the 2022 election, or is it part of the process to enact 5 districts?
A3: The City entered into two agreements with NDC. The first was for NTE $20,000 for an analysis
of Advisory Measure B and to assist the City in preparing for the redistricting process, if directed
by the City Council. Once the City Council directed staff to move forward with five districts,
another contract was executed with NDC for NTE $60,000. This contract was for the 2023
Redistricting process.
Page 57 of 63
Page 58 of 63
City of Palm Desert
Cash Flow Projections
w/District Tax Consideration
Page 59 of 63
Cash Flow Projections –Current
FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25 FY 2025-26 FY 2026-27 FY 2027-28 FY 2028-29
Estimated Revenue 75,554,467$ 78,123,319$ 81,170,128$ 84,173,423$ 87,119,493$ 90,168,675$
Estimated Expenditures 75,353,985$ 79,821,684$ 88,412,768$ 92,933,407$ 98,580,077$ 104,509,081$
Revenue over (under) expenditures 200,482$ (1,698,365)$ (7,242,640)$ (8,759,984)$ (11,460,584)$ (14,340,406)$
Est. General Fund Balance 1 120,916,512$ 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 72,660,262$ 48,900,279$ 22,439,694$
Unfunded Requests (from Reserve)(15,557,813) (11,529,911) (12,227,520) (15,000,000) (15,000,000) -
LMS Implementation (2,006,375)
Library Ops 23/24 (1,321,527)
New Library ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
North Sphere Community Park ($10M) BONDS (150,000) (5,000,000) (4,850,000)
North Sphere Regional Park ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
Fire Station 33/71 Renovations ($12M/ea)(1,300,000)
August 2023 Weather Event Projects (5,550,000)
Deferred Facility Maint (from Reserve)(6,529,911) (6,529,911) (6,077,520)
Est. General Fund Balance 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 72,660,262$ 48,900,279$ 22,439,694$ 8,099,288$
1. Includes the unaudited 2022/23 Fund Balance at this time.
Est. General Fund Bal 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 72,660,262$ 48,900,279$ 22,439,694$ 8,099,288$
Non-Spendable 3,045,978 2,709,978 2,525,978 2,333,978 2,403,997 2,476,117
Current Reserve Policy
ASSIGNED
GF Operating Reserve (25% of Ops)16,611,978 17,321,814 19,390,577 20,439,358 21,767,206 23,163,122
COMMITTED
GF Emergency Reserve (20% of GF Revenue)15,110,893 15,624,664 16,234,026 16,834,685 17,423,899 18,033,735
Liability Reserve ($4M)4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000
Emplymnt Bene Reserve
(50% for PERS change in Discount Rate)10,434,732 10,747,773 11,070,207 11,402,313 11,744,382 12,096,714
Other Fund Stability Reserve (equal to 25% T-fer Out)2,556,900 2,633,607 2,712,615 2,793,994 2,877,814 2,964,148
Facility Reserve 19,137,342 922,141 1,960,840
CIP Reserve 13,965,065
Equip Replacement Reserve
(100% of historical cost of assets balance)3,367,828 3,468,863 3,572,929 3,680,117 3,790,520 3,904,236
Econ Dvlpmnt/Land Acqn Reserve
Total Required Reserve 88,230,716$ 57,428,840$ 61,467,171$ 61,484,444$ 64,007,818$ 66,638,072$
Est. Unassigned Fund Balance 17,127,983$ 34,701,583$ 11,193,091$ (12,584,165)$ (41,568,123)$ (58,538,784)$
Page 60 of 63
Cash Flow Projections –with ½ cent district tax approval
FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25 FY 2025-26 FY 2026-27 FY 2027-28 FY 2028-29
Estimated Revenue 75,554,467$ 78,123,319$ 81,170,128$ 84,173,423$ 87,119,493$ 90,168,675$
1/2 cent district tax approval 13,082,325 13,448,630$ 13,784,846$ 14,101,897$
Estimated Expenditures 75,353,985$ 79,821,684$ 88,412,768$ 92,933,407$ 98,580,077$ 104,509,081$
Revenue over (under) expenditures 200,482$ (1,698,365)$ 5,839,685$ 4,688,646$ 2,324,261$ (238,509)$
Est. General Fund Balance 1 120,916,512$ 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 85,742,587$ 75,431,234$ 62,755,495$
Unfunded Requests (from Reserve)(15,557,813) (11,529,911) (12,227,520) (15,000,000) (15,000,000) -
LMS Implementation (2,006,375)
Library Ops 23/24 (1,321,527)
New Library ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
North Sphere Community Park ($10M) BONDS (150,000) (5,000,000) (4,850,000)
North Sphere Regional Park ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
Fire Station 33/71 Renovations ($12M/ea)(1,300,000)
August 2023 Weather Event Projects (5,550,000)
Deferred Facility Maint (from Reserve)(6,529,911) (6,529,911) (6,077,520)
Est. General Fund Balance 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 85,742,587$ 75,431,234$ 62,755,495$ 62,516,987$
1. Includes the unaudited 2022/23 Fund Balance at this time.
Est. General Fund Bal 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 85,742,587$ 75,431,234$ 62,755,495$ 62,516,987$
Non-Spendable 3,045,978 2,709,978 2,525,978 2,333,978 2,403,997 2,476,117
Current Reserve Policy
ASSIGNED
GF Operating Reserve (25% of Ops)16,611,978 17,321,814 19,390,577 20,439,358 21,767,206 23,163,122
COMMITTED
GF Emergency Reserve (20% of GF Revenue)15,110,893 15,624,664 18,850,491 19,524,411 20,180,868 20,854,114
Liability Reserve ($4M)4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000
Emplymnt Bene Reserve
(50% for PERS change in Discount Rate)10,434,732 10,747,773 11,070,207 11,402,313 11,744,382 12,096,714
Other Fund Stability Reserve (equal to 25% T-fer Out)2,556,900 2,633,607 2,712,615 2,793,994 2,877,814 2,964,148
Facility Reserve 19,137,342 922,141 1,960,840
CIP Reserve 13,965,065
Equip Replacement Reserve
(100% of historical cost of assets balance)3,367,828 3,468,863 3,572,929 3,680,117 3,790,520 3,904,236
Econ Dvlpmnt/Land Acqn Reserve
Total Required Reserve 88,230,716$ 57,428,840$ 64,083,636$ 64,174,170$ 66,764,787$ 69,458,451$
Est. Unassigned Fund Balance 17,127,983$ 34,701,583$ 21,658,951$ 11,257,064$ (4,009,291)$ (6,941,465)$ Page 61 of 63
Cash Flow Projections –with 1cent district tax approval
FY 2023-24 FY 2024-25 FY 2025-26 FY 2026-27 FY 2027-28 FY 2028-29
Estimated Revenue 75,554,467$ 78,123,319$ 81,170,128$ 84,173,423$ 87,119,493$ 90,168,675$
1 cent district tax approval 26,164,510 26,897,116$ 27,569,544$ 28,203,644$
Estimated Expenditures 75,353,985$ 79,821,684$ 88,412,768$ 92,933,407$ 98,580,077$ 104,509,081$
Revenue over (under) expenditures 200,482$ (1,698,365)$ 18,921,870$ 18,137,132$ 16,108,960$ 13,863,238$
Est. General Fund Balance1 120,916,512$ 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 98,824,772$ 101,961,905$ 103,070,865$
Unfunded Requests (from Reserve)(15,557,813) (11,529,911) (12,227,520) (15,000,000) (15,000,000) -
LMS Implementation (2,006,375)
Library Ops 23/24 (1,321,527)
New Library ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
North Sphere Community Park ($10M) BONDS (150,000) (5,000,000) (4,850,000)
North Sphere Regional Park ($30M) BONDS (15,000,000) (15,000,000)
Fire Station 33/71 Renovations ($12M/ea)(1,300,000)
August 2023 Weather Event Projects (5,550,000)
Deferred Facility Maint (from Reserve)(6,529,911) (6,529,911) (6,077,520)
Est. General Fund Balance 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 98,824,772$ 101,961,905$ 103,070,865$ 116,934,102$
1. Includes the unaudited 2022/23 Fund Balance at this time.
Est. General Fund Bal 105,358,699$ 92,130,423$ 98,824,772$ 101,961,905$ 103,070,865$ 116,934,102$
Non-Spendable 3,045,978 2,709,978 2,525,978 2,333,978 2,403,997 2,476,117
Current Reserve Policy
ASSIGNED
GF Operating Reserve (25% of Ops)16,611,978 17,321,814 19,390,577 20,439,358 21,767,206 23,163,122
COMMITTED
GF Emergency Reserve (20% of GF Revenue)15,110,893 15,624,664 21,466,928 22,214,108 22,937,807 23,674,464
Liability Reserve ($4M)4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000 4,000,000
Emplymnt Bene Reserve
(50% for PERS change in Discount Rate)10,434,732 10,747,773 11,070,207 11,402,313 11,744,382 12,096,714
Other Fund Stability Reserve (equal to 25% T-fer Out)2,556,900 2,633,607 2,712,615 2,793,994 2,877,814 2,964,148
Facility Reserve 19,137,342 922,141 1,960,840
CIP Reserve 13,965,065
Equip Replacement Reserve
(100% of historical cost of assets balance)3,367,828 3,468,863 3,572,929 3,680,117 3,790,520 3,904,236
Econ Dvlpmnt/Land Acqn Reserve
Total Required Reserve 88,230,716$ 57,428,840$ 66,700,073$ 66,863,867$ 69,521,726$ 72,278,801$
Est. Unassigned Fund Balance 17,127,983$ 34,701,583$ 32,124,699$ 35,098,038$ 33,549,138$ 44,655,302$ Page 62 of 63
Excluded from Projections
•Mall Renovation
•CSUSB Expansion
•Parkview Renovation/Rehabilitation
•Major Infrastructure Improvements
Page 63 of 63