HomeMy WebLinkAbout2025-06-24 ARC Regular Meeting Agenda Packet
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
MEETING AGENDA
Tuesday, June 24, 2025
12:30 p.m.
Development Services Conference Room, City Hall
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, CA 92260
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 Commissioners may attend remotely.
To participate via Zoom, use the following link: https://palmdesert.zoom.us/j/83648797515 or
call (213) 338-8477, Zoom Meeting ID: 836 4879 7515
•
Written public comment may also be submitted to planning@palmdesert.gov. E-mails
received by 9:30 a.m. prior to the meeting will be distributed to the Commission. Any
correspondence received during or after the meeting will be distributed to the Commission as
soon as practicable and retained for the official record. Emails will not be read aloud except
as an ADA accommodation.
•
Pages
1.CALL TO ORDER
2.ROLL CALL
3.NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
This time has been set aside for the public to address the Architectural Review
Commission on issues that are not on the agenda for up to three minutes.
Because the Brown Act does not allow the Commission to act on items not listed
on the agenda, members may briefly respond or refer the matter to staff for a
report and recommendation at a future meeting.
4.CONSENT CALENDAR
All matters listed on the Consent Calendar are considered routine and may be
approved by one motion. The public may comment on any items on the Consent
Calendar within the three-minute time limit. Individual items may be removed by
the Architectural Review Commission for a separate discussion.
RECOMMENDATION:
To approve the consent calendar as presented.
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES 5
RECOMMENDATION:
Approve the Minutes of May 27, 2025.
5.CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
Items removed from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion are
considered at this time.
6.BUSINESS ITEMS
Items listed in this section are presented for the Commission's review and
action. Public comment is allowed on each item, with a three-minute time limit
for each speaker. The Commission may provide direction, request additional
information, or take action as appropriate.
6.a CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SIGN PROGRAM FOR AN EXISTING,
MULTITENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING AT 72-171 HIGHWAY 111
9
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the ARC approve the request for a comprehensive sign
program approval, determining the requirements of the findings have been
met.
6.b PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE MASTER PLAN 31
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on proposed Citywide Landscape Master Plan.
7.INFORMATIONAL REPORTS
7.a COMMITTEE MEETING UPDATES
7.a.1 Cultural Arts Committee
Liaisons provide updates to facilitate communication between the
Cultural Arts Committee and the Architectural Review Commission.
These are informational items with no formal action.
7.b CITY STAFF
City staff will provide updates on relevant projects, activities, and other
matters within the Commission's scope. These are informational items with
no formal action.
7.c ATTENDANCE REPORT 33
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
2
8.REQUESTS FOR ACTION
Commissioners may propose future agenda items within the Commission's
scope. Items that receive support from at least one other Commissioner may be
placed on a future agenda for discussion and possible action. No formal action
may be taken at this time.
9.ADJOURNMENT
The next Regular Meeting will be held on July 8, 2025, at 12:30 p.m.
10.PUBLIC NOTICES
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.
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 hereby certify under penalty of perjury under the laws of the State of California
that the foregoing agenda for the Architectural Review Commission was posted
on the City Hall bulletin board and City website not less than 72 hours prior to
the meeting.
/S/ Melinda Gonzalez
Executive Administrative Assistant
Architectural Review Commission Meeting
3
4
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
REGULAR MEETING MINUTES
1. CALL TO ORDER
A Regular Meeting of the Architectural Review Commission was called to order by Vice
Chair McIntosh on May 27, 2025, at 12:31 p.m. in the Development Services Conference
Room, City Hall, located at 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California.
2. ROLL CALL
3. NON-AGENDA PUBLIC COMMENT
Vice Chair McIntosh opened and closed the public comment period for Non-Agenda
public comment. No public comments were provided.
4. CONSENT CALENDAR
Motion by: Commissioner McAuliffe
Seconded by: Commissioner Sanchez
The Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
Motion Carried (6 to 0)
4.a APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Motion by: Commissioner McAuliffe
Seconded by: Commissioner Sanchez
The Architectural Review Commission (ARC) regular meeting minutes of May 13,
2025, were approved as presented.
Motion Carried (6 to 0)
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes
May 27, 2025
2
5. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
6. ACTION CALENDAR
6.a CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A DESIGN REVIEW FOR A 7,583 SQUARE
FOOT CLUBHOUSE FOR STONE EAGLE DEVELOPMENT AT 72425 STONE
EAGLE DRIVE
Deputy Director Flores narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Steve Platt, Applicant and Architect, was
present via Zoom.
Vice Chair McIntosh opened the public comment period and invited the applicant
to speak. Steve Platt, Applicant and Architect, introduced himself and answered
questions from the Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Vice Chair McIntosh
closed the public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with
Commissioners providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner McIntosh
Seconded by: Commissioner Latkovic
Motion carried to approve Case No. MISC25-0007, as presented.
Motion Carried (6 to 0)
6.b CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A COMPREHENSIVE SIGN PROGRAM FOR
72750 DINAH SHORE DRIVE, UNIT 107 FOR PALM SPRINGS MOTORSPORTS
Deputy Director Flores narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the item and
responded to Commission inquiries. Jeff Grady with Signarama, Applicant, was
present in person and Paul Antle, Business Owner, was present via Zoom.
Vice Chair McIntosh opened the public comment period and invited the applicant
to speak. Jeff Grady with Signarama, Applicant, and Paul Antle, Business Owner,
introduced themselves and answered questions from the Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Vice Chair McIntosh
closed the public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with
Commissioners providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner Latkovic
Seconded by: Commissioner Blakeley
Motion carried to approve Case No. SARC25-0001, as presented with the following
conditions:
1. The signage approved herein is only for “Palm Springs Motorsports”. If a
new business moves into the tenant space and proposes new signage, it
would have to comply with the Palm Desert Municipal Code and would not
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes
May 27, 2025
3
be allowed the number, location, or square footage of signs approved
through SARC25-0001.
2. The “Suzuki” sign may be moved to the east of the Yamaha sign on the
northeast elevation; to be reviewed by staff.
3. The “Palm Springs Motorsports” signs may be increased; to be reviewed by
staff review.
Motion Carried (6 to 0)
6.c CONSIDERATION FOR DESIGN REVIEW APPROVAL FOR CONSTRUCTION
OF A 4,944 SQUARE FOOT CONDOMINIUM COMPLEX AT 73815 SHADOW
MOUNTAIN DRIVE
Commissioner McAuliffe advised the Commission that Vice Chair McIntosh had
left for the remainder of the meeting because he needed to recuse himself for this
item due to proximity to the project.
Assistant Planner, Kayleen Aguirre, narrated a PowerPoint presentation on the
item and responded to Commission inquiries. Octavio Rocha with O2 Architects,
Applicant Representative, and Robert Johnson, Applicant and Owner, were
present in person.
Commissioner McAuliffe opened the public comment period and invited the
applicant to speak. Octavio Rocha with O2 Architects, Applicant Representative,
and Robert Johnson, Applicant and Owner, introduced themselves and answered
questions from the Commission.
With no other members of the public wishing to comment, Commissioner McAuliffe
closed the public comment period. Discussion on the item ensued with
Commissioners providing comments on the project.
Motion by: Commissioner Latkovic
Seconded by: Commissioner McAuliffe
Motion carried to approve Case No. PP/CUP/EA23-0009, as presented with the
following conditions:
1. Applicant shall place a block wall between the pool area and the dining
section for the northeast unit to create privacy.
2. Applicant shall provide identification signage for the rear units.
Motion Carried (5 to 0)
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Architectural Review Commission Minutes
May 27, 2025
4
7. REPORTS & REMARKS
7.a ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSIONERS
None
7.b CITY STAFF
Deputy Director Flores provided the following updates:
• At the last City Council meeting, the proposed new City wayfinding signs
which the ARC previously provided input on, were approved.
• Staff will provide updates during upcoming ARC meetings regarding City
CIP projects reviewed by ARC including the library and three Fire Stations.
• Upon inquiry, Deputy Director Flores advised he would be posting the City's
Historical Survey document to the City's website.
• A new Commissioner has been selected by City Council for the ARC to fill
the one vacancy, effective July 1, 2025.
7.c ATTENDANCE REPORT
The attendance report was provided with the agenda materials. The Commission
took no action on this item.
8. ADJOURNMENT
The Architectural Review Commission adjourned at 2:00 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
_________________________________________________
Melinda Gonzalez, Executive Administrative Assistant
Recording Secretary
ATTEST:
___________________________________________________
Carlos Flores, Interim Deputy Director of Development Services
Secretary
APPROVED BY ARC: __/__/2025
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Page 1 of 6
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 24, 2025
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Interim Deputy Director of Development Services
SUBJECT: CONSIDERATION TO APPROVE A SIGN PROGRAM FOR AN EXISTING,
MULTITENANT COMMERCIAL BUILDING AT 72-171 HIGHWAY 111
RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends the ARC approve the request for a comprehensive sign program approval,
determining the requirements of the findings have been met.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
The Applicant, Signarama, is requesting approval of a Sign Program for an existing, multitenant
commercial building (Building) at 72171 Highway 111 (Property), located on the northwest
corner of Highway 111 and Painters Path (Assessor’s Parcel Number: 640020024).
The proposal would establish a Sign Program (Program) and would set guidelines for sign
criteria, including size, location, construction, height, length, and illumination for all building and
monument signage for the Building.
Executive Summary:
Case No.: SARC24-0009
Project Summary:
A. Property Description
The Property is a 1.18-acre, fully improved property that takes vehicular access off Painter’s
Path. The Building is approximated to have been constructed in 1988 and has existed without
a Sign Program. All signage was subject to review against the City of Palm Desert Municipal
Code (PDMC). On July 12, 2007, the City Council approved SA 07-63 for a new freestanding
sign for the Property, for “First Team Real Estate”, as shown in Exhibit 1 on the next page.
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Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0009 72171 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 2 of 6
Exhibit 1 – SA 07-63 Approval
This sign was constructed but has subsequently been removed, with exception to the base
which currently remains, as shown in Exhibit 2 below.
Exhibit 2 – Monument Sign Base
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Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0009 72171 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 3 of 6
B. Zoning, General Plan and Adjacent Uses
Table 1 – Adjacent Land Use and Designations
Existing Uses General Plan Zoning
Project Site Multitenant Commercial Employment District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
North Vacant Open Space Hillside Planned Residential
(HPR)
South Existing Commercial Suburban
Retail Center
District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
West Vacant Open Space Hillside Planned Residential
(HPR)
East Existing Commercial Regional Retail District Commercial Center
(P.C.-2)
C. Project Description
The proposed Program would set guidelines for sign criteria, including size, location,
construction, height, length, and illumination for one (1) multitenant building, and for one (1)
standalone monument sign.
The Program outlines the standards and requirements for Building signs on the existing
Building. Any existing signs on the Building will be allowed to remain as legal nonconforming
but upon new application submittal, would need to conform with the updated Program, if
approved.
The Program provides objectives, general requirements, prohibited signs, maintenance, and
standards for tenant identification signs and the one (1) multitenant monument sign. The
Program also provides a clear site plan providing locations for all signs, elevations, and
nighttime renderings. The Program would allow signage on all four (4) elevations, including
nine (9) on the east elevation facing Highway 111, one (1) on the west elevation, one (1) on
the south elevation, and one (1) on the north elevation. The signage would be internally
illuminated, front/face-lit, individual channel letter signs attached to the building fascia.
The Program proposes one (1) multitenant monument sign along Highway 111. Details for
the proposed monument sign (Monument) are found on Pages 14 and 15 of the Program.
The Monument would be installed on top of the existing planter and measure 42” in height,
24” in depth, and 72” in width. The Monument would use a Dunn -Edward Igloo and Baby
Seal color palette to match the Building. The tenant panels would be non -illuminated,
measuring 14” x 30.5” and would face the north and south elevation. The top of the
Monument would include a 3” tall cap.
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Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0009 72171 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 4 of 6
Exhibit 3 – Monument Sign
Per Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 25.56.100, the purpose of a comprehensive
sign program is to “integrate all of a nonresidential project’s signs with the overall site design
and the structures’ design into a unified architectural statement. A comprehensive sign program
provides a means for the flexible application of sign regulations in order to provide incentive and
latitude in the design and display of multiple signs…”
Table 3 below provides a summary of proposed development standards for the Program as
compared to the City’s sign ordinance under PDMC Section 25.56.070 and guidelines from the
existing Program for reference.
Table 2 – PDMC Summary
Standard PDMC Allowance Proposed
Size (max
sign area)
24” height 88” wide
15” height x 60” wide
Sign Height
Letter
Height
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Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0009 72171 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 5 of 6
Number of
Signs
1 per building frontage 1 sign per tenant leased
frontage. An additional sign
is allowed if the unit is an
end or corner unit.
Illumination
Allowed
Yes Yes
Length N/A 88” (First Floor)
60” (Second Floor)
Secondary
Signs
Permitted per
standards listed in
PDMC §25.56.080C.
No mention – PDMC will
apply but only in specific sign
locations
Monument
sign
50 sf of sign area.
6 ft of height but may
be higher if necessary.
Height shall not
exceed 10 ft.
21 sf of sign area
42” of height (3.5 feet)
ZONING ORDINANCE SUMMARY:
Proposed comprehensive sign programs require Design Review approval by the Architectural
Review Commission pursuant to PDMC Section 25.68.050(C)(3).
Findings for the ARC decisions of comprehensive sign program applications are listed u nder
PDMC Section 25.56.100(E) as follows.
1. The comprehensive sign program complies with the purpose of this chapter, including the
design criteria.
The intent of PDMC Chapter 25.56 Signs is to provide regulations that allow each sign
user an opportunity for adequate identification while protecting against excessive
advertising and the confusing proliferation of signs. It ensures signs are in harmony with
the building, the neighborhood, other signs in the area, and protects the safety of
motorists and pedestrians by minimizing the distraction of excessive and intrusive signs.
Everything proposed within the Program is in line with the intent mentioned above. The
Program provides its tenants with adequate identification. The signs are designed to be
harmonious with the building and surrounding commercial uses and are designed in a
way to not cause distractions to motorists that drive by. The Program creates strict criteria
to ensure that signage on the building is attractive and enhances the visual aspects o f the
City.
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Architectural Review Commission
City of Palm Desert
SARC24-0009 72171 Highway 111 Sign Program
Page 6 of 6
2. Proposed signs enhance the overall development and are in harmony with other signs
included in the plan with the structures they identify and with surrounding development.
The proposed Program creates a uniform look for the building and pro vides criteria to
ensure this consistency. The signs are designed to be in harmony with the building and
all signs on the building. The Program has clear and detailed criteria relating to
development standards, construction, sign criteria, and location. The signs are compatible
with the surrounding commercial buildings. The monument sign is smaller in scale than
the previously approved version and provides a compatible color palette and design.
3. The comprehensive sign program contains provisions to accommodate future revisions
that may be required because of changes in use or tenants.
The Program is broad enough to provide standards for a change of tenants, meanwhile
still providing clear criteria for any future use or tenants in the building. Future tenants will
be required to submit plans for building signage to the City of Palm Desert for compliance
with the sign program and Palm Desert Municipal Code.
4. The comprehensive sign program complies with the standards of this chapter, except that
flexibility is allowed with regard to sign area, number, location, and/or height to the extent
that the signs proposed under the comprehensive sign program will enhance the overall
development, achieve superior quality design, and will more fully accomplish the
purposes of this chapter.
Table 2 in the staff report provides a comparison of the proposed Program to the Palm
Desert Municipal Code. The Program complies with the standards and intent of the
chapter. The proposed Program is appropriate for the Building and surrounding area. The
Program provides strict locations for second-story tenants to establish clear locations and
sign designs for the two-story Building.
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Sign Program
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
SARC24-0009
72-171 Highway 111
Program
PALM DESERT ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
JUNE 24, 2025
Project Request
Case No. SARC24-0009
Project Applicant: Signarama
Project Description: Request for Sign Program for an existing, multitenant commercial
building at 72171 Highway 111 located on the northwest corner of Highway 111 and
Painters Path (Assessor’s Parcel Number: 640020024).
The proposal would establish a Sign Program and would set guidelines for sign criteria,
including size, location, construction, height, length, and illumination for all building and
monument signage for the Building.
26/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
36/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
46/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
Project Request
The proposed Program would set guidelines for sign criteria, including size, location,
construction, height, length, and illumination for one multitenant building, and for
one standalone monument sign. The Program outlines the standards and
requirements for Building signs on the existing Building. Any existing signs on the
Building will be allowed to remain as legal nonconforming but upon new application
submittal, would need to conform with the updated Program, if approved.
The Program also provides a clear site plan providing locations for all signs, elevations,
and nighttime renderings. The Program would allow signage on all four (4) elevations,
including nine (9) on the east elevation facing Highway 111, one (1) on the west
elevation, one (1) on the south elevation, and one (1) on the north elevation. The
signage would be internally illuminated, front/face-lit, individual channel letter signs
attached to the building fascia.
56/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
66/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
Analysis
76/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
Recommendation
8
Staff recommends the ARC determine the findings have been met and approve the
comprehensive sign program
6/24/2025 AGENDA ITEM 6.A
Page 1 of 1
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
CITY OF PALM DESERT
STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 24, 2025
PREPARED BY: Carlos Flores, AICP, Interim Deputy Director of Development Services
SUBJECT: PROVIDE FEEDBACK ON CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE MASTER PLAN
RECOMMENDATION:
Provide feedback on proposed Citywide Landscape Master Plan.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS:
On November 14, 2024, the City Council awarded a contract (C48620) to Hermann Design
Group (Consultant) for development of a Landscape Master Plan. City staff and the Consultant
are seeking feedback from the Architectural Review Commission on the proposed plan. The
Consultant will be providing a presentation during the meeting.
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Palm Desert Master Plan
City of Palm Desert
Existing Conditions
•Dated monument signs
•Similar design material as nearby cities
•Very little change at entry nodes
•No sense of arrival from offramps
•No cohesive landscape design for all medians
Design Elements
•Geographic representation of the San Jacinto Mountains
•Three different levels of design tiers based on vehicle speed and density
•Unique plant selections and hybrids to break away from the desert norm
•Use of gabion columns for accents and wayfinding
Tier One Design
•Gabion basket columns for city entry and wayfinding
•Raised and sloped landscape planters ‘Kitsap’ by Tournesol
•Retaining boulders as planters
•Dense planting clusters of shrubs and desert accents
Tier Two Design
•Limited raised and sloped ‘Kitsap’ planters
•Moderate use of retaining boulders planters
•Moderate planting clusters of shrubs and accents
•Limited use of gabion columns for wayfinding
Tier 3 Design
•Limited use of retaining boulders
•No raised and sloped Kitsap planters
•Spare planting clusters, mainly of desert accents and ground covers
•No gabion columns
Gabion Basket Monument Columns
•Gabion basket designed as tall columns
•Corten steel finish color
•Palm Desert city logo, wayfinding, and palm frond accent cut-outs
•Several lighting options
Design Opportunities
•Extend or add new medians at Monterey, Cook, and Washington offramps
•Keep existing specimen plants, trees, and palms
•Keep existing median rock blankets where it can be salvaged
•Remove all existing stamped concrete
•Use of Natina spray in areas to enhance existing rock and boulders
CITY OF PALM DESERT
ATTENDANCE REPORT
Advisory Body: Architectural Review Commission
Prepared By:
Year 2025 2024
Month
Date 14-Jan 28-Jan 11-Feb 25-Feb 11-Mar 25-Mar 8-Apr 22-Apr 13-May 27-May 10-Jun 25-Jun 9-Jul 23-Jul 13-Aug 27-Aug 10-Sep 24-Sep 8-Oct 22-Oct 12-Nov 26-Nov 10-Dec 24-Dec
Blakeley, James Edward - P P - P P P - P P - P - E - P - P P P P - P -1 0
Colvard, Dean Wallace - P P - P P P - P P - P - P - P - E A P P - P -2 1
Latkovic, Nicholas - P P - P E E - P P - P - P - P - P P P P - E -3 0
McAuliffe, Michael - P P - P P P - P P - E - P - P - P P E P - P -2 0
McIntosh, James - E P - P P E - P P - P - P - A - P P E E - P -5 1
Sanchez, Francisco - P P - P P P - P P - P - P - P - E P P P - P -1 0
Vuksic, John - P P - P P E - P E - P - P - E - P P P P - P -3 0
Palm Desert Municipal Code 2.34.010:
P Present
A Absent
E Excused
- No meeting
M. Gonzalez
Twice Monthly: Six unexcused absences from regular meetings in any twelve-month period shall constitute an automatic resignation of members holding office on boards that meet twice monthly.
Total
Unexcused
Absences
Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep
2025 2025 2025 20252025 2024
Total
Absences
Oct Nov Dec
2024 2024 2024 2024 2024
33