HomeMy WebLinkAbout0220 NIIIV�TI�'S
P�IM DESF�ZT PLAN[1II� QM��IISSIQ�i I�PII�
Z[JES'L�1Y - � 20, 1990
7:00 P.M. - CIVIC CFNI�t �L Q-IANBER
73-510 FRID �RII� D�tiVE
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I. C�LL TO ORDIIt
Chairperson Whitlock called the meeting to ordex at 7:03 p.m.
II. PI� OF AI�I,DGIANCE
Cannissioner Jonathan led in the pledge of allegiance.
III. ROLL CALL
Members Present: Carol Whitlock, Chairperson
Bob Dawns
Ric}c F�ti��od
Sabby Jonathan
Jim Richards
Members Absent: None
Staff Present: Ray Diaz
Kandy Allen
Seyed Safavian
� Phil Jay
Phil Drell
Steve Smith
Tonya Nbnr�oe
IV. APPFtC�T11L OF NLTId(IPFS: .
Consideration of the JanuaYy 16 and Febn.iary 6, 1990 meeting minutes.
Action•
Moved by Commissioner Richards, seconded by Catmissioner Dawns,
appraviny the January 16 and February 6, 1990 meeting minutes.
Carried 5-0.
V. S[�TR�RY OF C�JIVC,IL AL'PI(�1
Mr. Diaz summarized pertinent FebruaYy 8, 1990 city oauncil actian.
VI. Q"�1SF1�lI' CAI,Q�IDAR
None.
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NIIIV�fI'ES
PAIM DFSIIZT PLANPTiNG QNNiISSI�T
FEBRU�IRY 20, 1990
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VII. PL]BLIC FlF�1R.Il�
It was maved by Camtissioner powns, seconded by CaYmissioner Richards
to suspend the public hearing item order. Carried 5-0.
A. C�ntirn�ed C�qe Nos. TT 25296 and C/Z 89-16 - BI(��7RN VFNIURES,
Applicant
Request for approval of master tentative map
subdividirx� 362 acres into a 484 unit country
club, a first ghase of 108 units on 35 acres, a
change of zone for 25 acres of drainageway fran
O. S. to PR-5 and H.P.R. , and a negative
declaration of environmental impact located
southeast of Portola Avenue and Highway 74.
N�. Diaz explained that the draft envirorYnental in�pact report wr�uld
not be canpleted until late April or early May. He reoannea�ded that
cannission continue the public hearing to a time uncertain and
instYuct staff to readvertise the public hearing.
Chairperson Whitlock opened the public testimony and asked if anyone
present wished to address the camussion. There was rx� one.
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Action•
Moved by Commissioner powns, secanded by Cam►issioner Richards,
continuu�g TT 25296 and C/Z 89-16 to a date uncertain and instructing
staff to re-advertise the public hearing. Carried 5-0.
E. Ca.se No. C�7P 90-6 - N�GVIlJ QIRQ, Applicant
Request for approval of a negative declaration
and conditional us� pennit to allaw an 18 hole
public golf course on 56 acres zoned R-1 and Operi
Space, located on the north side and within the
Whitewater Storm CY�nnel between Cook Street arid
Portola Avenue.
Mr. Drell outlined the salient points of the staff report and sYx7wed
a video of the area. He e�xplained that the only structures to be
built on any of the property would be purely necessary for the
servicing of the golf course. He noted that oorrespor�dence had bePn
received from the Avail Prnperty Management Canpany representing
WedgeHn�od Glen in support of the project. He irxi.icated that while
the Coachella Valley Water Distxict had cont.�olling easemP.nts aver
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PAIM DFSE�'I' F'LArII�Ii� �T�SSI�1
F�EZ[J11RY 20, 1990
"�' the entire charu7el, they did rx�t pd�ysically own the entire channel.
Mr. Drell felt this was an appropriate use and r�ryded apprwal.
Cannissioner Richards clarified that part of the golf caurse itself ,
was on land a�med by Portola Country Club on land with a CVWD
easecnent. I�. Drell indicated that was correct. The entire channel
south of Portola Countxy Club was a lot aoa�v�eyed by the Portola
Country Club when it was originally devela�ecl. He stated there was
an easement for storm water p�poses to (,'UWD. Nfr.. Drell also noted
that two other letters had been received: one in opposition
e,xpressing concern about the awnership problem and specifically
requesting no night lighting, and another received from Alan
Corneliouson of 43-120 Silktree r�equesting that the bikepath be
preserved as part of this developrnent and trees planted alorig the
bikepath and grass up to it. Mr. Drell indicated that if the golf
course extended that high the developer would be required to � '
landscape the area.
Commissioner Richards asked the city attorney about a use being
proposed wit�h questions about the awnership and easem�zt and when a
easer�ient was granted, what rights would the holder of the easemerit
have in tezms of the use of that property. Ms. Allen indicated that
it would be defined in the title doc�m�e.nts, of which she did r�t have
� a copy, but in general they hav�e a right to use it for whatever
purposes were stated in the titling doc�m�e.nt and the c�mer of the
land was not allawed to interfere with the easemP.nt. Mr. Drell
indicated that a title report could be obtained. Catmissioner
Richards felt it was an ic�ortant issue. N�. Drell indicated that
the operational issues of the golf course could be resolved and then
the awnership issue at ar�other hearing.
GamLissioner Jonath�z mted that one of the letters brought up the
issue of golf balls bouncing off ceme.nt. N�. Ilrell felt that was an
issue that should be addressed in the design and height on tt�se
concrete esnban}unents with sane type of fencing or a ooating that
wr�uld da�nperi balls and have them fall and not go bai.uicing too far.
Chairperson Whitlock opened the public testi�y and asked the
applicant to address the catmission.
N�2. JOHN PENA, project cai�,sultant, indicated that the site has a
long history of dumping and grading activity. Their intent was
to develop the site into a useful recreational site for �unior
and senior golf at an affordable price. He introduced N�. Ct�rci
and Dave E�ans, explaining that Mr. Clarci was the former awner
and director of golf at Indian Wells Coturtxy Club and N�. C�rci
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NILI�IU'I�.S
PAIM DLSI�T F'I,1�I�IIVII� �M�SSIC[�1
FEBR[TAizY 20, 1990
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was responsible for various stages of golf course maintenance
and club house management--Mr. C�rci presently owns Demo
Unlimited, a landscapirig comparYy. Sacie local pro�ects he was
involved with included Desert Horizons, Vintage, La Quinta
Hotel, and Desert Falls Crn.urtry Club. N�. Et�ans was a golf
, professional by trade; turned pro in 1958 and managed several
golf clubs in Washin�gto� before caniryg to the desert in 1965.
He joined the La Quinta Countxy Club staff and was curre.ntly in
charge of all golf operatioR�s. He stated that srnie issues w�ould .
be resolved, especially awnership and design proUle�ns that wauld
be impacted alccmg the charuzel. The chanriel itself would be
gurLited and then a layer of earth with grass or something would
be planted to soften the i�act of the oaricrete banks.
C7�a.irperson Whitlock asked if ariyo�ze present wished t�o speak in FAVOR
or the proposal. There was rr� one. She asked if anyone present
wished to speak in OPP06ITIQ�i.
NffZ. ROGER LANGER, 74-487 Gary Avenue in Portola C,ountry Club,
stated that he was ru�t in direct oppositi�. He stated that
when he received the legal notice, he was aware that they owried
that part of the channel and had never been oontacted. He
indicated that the residents of Portola Country Club were rr�t
adverse and the pro�ect would enhance the riverbed. He �
;�;cated that he wanted it on record that: 1) security was
needed f�xn Portola into the river bed. He stated that they had
motorcycles racing in there, as well as three wheelers and
children frcm the middle and high schools that play in that area
and wanted to make sure that there was proper security going
into that golf course day arid night. He indicated that he had
be�n robbed several times. 2) He stated that they were agair�st
havirx3 lights in that river bed. He indicated that they were
already looking at the lights fran the recreatioenal center at
midnight and 1:00 a.m. and were still fightirx� the Rive.rside
County Recreational Cannittee to turn off the lights at 10:00
p.m. He �ndicated there was a driving range planned ar�d in
discussion with N�-. Cl�rci it was identified that the driving
range would be north and sauth. He did not care which directian
it went, but did not want lights. He was also opposed to motor
driven carts and felt that golf balls hitting the cernent walls
' of the stonn drain could bounce up into the hanes and he was
opposed to this. He indicated that as far as hillside
landscaping went, he would like some landscaping on the
hillsides. He also r�oted that the road access along the top
where the storm drain was there was about a 14 foot concrete
emban}rnient and on top of that wr�uld be a road to give the water
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NII�Ati'ES �I
PAIM DL'SIIZT PLArII1II� �T'iISSIC[�1
FEBRt�1KY 20, 1990 '
`" department access into the sewage area. That access was granted
to the water district on their easament, which was doaze in the '
last six months. He irzdicated that he testimociy was not dir�ect '
opposition.
Cannissioner Fsti�od asked if Mr. Langer's ob,jecti� was to gas carts �
only or electric also. N�. Langer stated that it was the gas carts ,
only because of the rx�ise. Camiissianer Jonat.��n asked if N�. Langer '
was representing the Yr.xneaFmers associatian. N�. Lar�ger stated that '
he was representing himself as a homeawner and had been asked by the
president of the association to attend, but the associatian had not
yet met. Commissioner Richards indtcated that the first issue
brought up was security. He felt that arYy occtzpation of the land
wr�uld help the security situation and they w�uld have to watch their
awn investment. N�. Langer stated that after 5:00 p.m. they have the
off-road vehicles and if they could get in there, they would. He
felt they needed guards. Ccmnissioner Richards stated that the
carrnission was very sensitive to the pmblem with lightirig. He felt
there might be a way to have law level lights. He asked if the carts
being mentioned were the gasoline carts for the golf playnx�s, not
necessarily the utility vehicles. Mr. Langer concurred.
Cannissioner Richards also wr�ndered what aould be dcxie abaut the golf
balls after the gunite. N�. Langer stated that he discussed th.is
�, with the water district at one time, with their chief engineer, and
;n�;cated that in Palm Sprir�gs they did put sanething aver the gurLite
for aesthetic purposes, but he would like it as a safety factor.
Mr. Diaz stated that was scmethirx� that could be looked into; but in
terms of steepness of the bank, it was a geanetric problem that could
be effected by haw the t-box was set up.
MR. WALLACE HAGER, 74-447 Gary Avenue, ir2dicated that his
residence looked aver the channel, stated that he wanted the
cannission to }�xxa that he supported Mr. Langer's statements and
he did r�ot }aww about the develognent t.uitil that afternoon
because he had bee.n out of toHm. His ooax•,erns were security,
patential damage by the gunited slope, and felt that the ball
w�uld go up that hill on the Portola side with the way the holes
were laid out. He indicated that he w�uld like to see the
development acoariplished after discussioai and the plan refined
before they oould form a valid opinion. He assured cannission
that Portola owned the lots and the water district had an
eas��t to take care of waste water, except for the recent
easement to put in a specific pipe for sewer.
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NIIIV(TI'ES
PALM DESk�T PLAN�LQ� �T�SSI�I
FEBRUARY 20, 1990
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NIl�. JEFF FLC7WER, 74-535 Gazy Avenue, had oo�ricern abaut traftic
movements onto Sheryl and whether it correspcxxis to the master
plan of the Cook Street overpass, and whether it would be
signaled, or if the entranae only would be i�r�aved or the whole
street.
Mr. Safavian replied that the design of the bridge avex Cook Str�et
had not been finalized, so staff did not l��av haw the acce.ss to
Sheryl would be made. At this point there was mt plan to look at
the intersection of Sheryl and Cook Street or make any major
modifications. Staff had been looking at that intersecti� for the
last few months in respor�se to a lot of c�cerned citizen ir��iries
regarding tr'affic problems, which really was trx�t pertinent to the
proposed project. He indicated that they would be addressing the
issue as related to Shexyl as far as traffic inrpact frccn this project
once there was a better understandii�g of what was imrolved as to
impact of txaffic and generatian of additianal voltmie to Sheryl.
They had anQther project on the other side of Cook Street at Sheryl
that w�ould be caning up and that intersecti� would be the sub�ect of
intensive analysis in the next few months.
MR. JERRY ALLIN, 74-573 Merle Drive, stated that he had beeaz a
haneaumer there for 25 years and felt that C.00�c Stxeet was the
most traveled street other than Nbnterey. His main aoa�icern was �
txaffic. He indicated that their pro�ect was built in 1961 with
127 t�cmeowners. Since then GaYy developed in addition to 60
condos in naw, for a total of approximately 200 haneaanzers. He
stated that they were isolated and aould c�ly exit by Merle or
Shezyl. In 1964 they were told Merle would go frcm Cook to
Portola. When Portola Country Club develaped, that was stopped.
He indicated that in the dayt�me rr�w it takes him ten minutes to
tuni right or left ant�o Cook fran Merle. The high sc,hool and
the industrial park traffic was astroncmical an Coak Street. He
felt the only way this project could be feasible at this time
would be for Cook Stxeet to be widened at the wash and a traffic
light install.ed at Sheryl to allow a left-turn lane for r�rth
bound txaffic. He was requestirig that saneday the people in the
north end of town be given the same consideration as the
residents in the south end of tawn, especially in the Fairway
Drive area.
MR. 'I'OM MAI�IDIQc, 74-619 Gary, indicated that his property backs
up to the golf course at the wash and stated that the traffic
was unbearable on Cook Street. He asked where the club hQu.se
would be located. N�. Drell stated that it would be fairly
central and close to the edge of the wash. Mr. Mandick asked
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I�'IINUI`FS
PALM DESII�T F'LAN[SIl�]G �T�IISSI�i
F�R[�RY 20, 1990 '
'"' what would happen on the flat land north of the wash. N�. Drell ,
iridicated that it would part of the golf oaurse. Nh'. Mandick ,
asked if there wauld be a wall in the back of their pr�o�erty. '
N�. Drell stated that it wo�ild be up to the 2xx��eowriers. Ntr�. '
Mandick asked if the golf �se w�uld be develoned right to '
their property line. Ntr�. Drell indicated that it would and ,
indicated that if �the haneawners wanted walls put up, it sh�uld '
be requested and noted that in mancy oo�.urtry clubs residents pay '
more money to hav�e their Yxx��es look aut anto a golf caurse. He
suggested that GaYy as a gr�oup get together to cane up with
scmethi.ng that would be fairly uniform. N�. Marzdick asked what
wr�uld happen with the traffic if the pro�ect develo�ed. before
Cook was ca�leted--he felt that scmeorie was going to be killed '
out there. He w�ndered why the stap sign aoulc�'t be pushed
back one mr�re stxeet to give a ten�arary stop sign to allaw them '
out of their tract and give them a chance for exit. '
Carinissioner Richards rx�ted that the Cook Street averpass was r�t
going to happen soon and knew there would be daytime traffic ,
generation fran this development and asked what the requirements of
the city were in order to make a charx3e in that intersection. Mr.
Safavian gave a brief background of what staff had do�e in the last
few months. He stated that the basic criteria to meet Caltrans
standards could r�t be met, even two weeks ago at the peak of the
�"' season. He also informed carrru.ssion that when a stap sign was placed
in a location that did r�t warrant it, it caused more accidents. He
i.ndicated that Cook Street wr�uldn't be wide.ned for a fe�w years and
another problem was the location of Sheryl being so close to the
wash, which made it vezy difficult with liability and accidents to
control it. He stated that staff was aware of the problem and was
workuzg on it, but the solution at this time was not for a coa�trolled
intersection with stop signs.
N�. Mandick spoke up frcm the audieriae and stated that there
were three injury accidents last week alone fran the sauth end
of the wash and Shexyl. He personally witnessed them.
Mr. Safavian stated that the accidents N�. Mandick was referrirx3 to
had rx�thuzg to dr� with the Sheryl �ntersection, but a problem created
by the water district when they opened up a truck raute through the
� wash and trucks were ocm.ing on arid off frcm the deep section of the
wash and passenger cars heading south aould not see that, which
created ttzose accidents. It had rx�tl�zg to do with the intersectian
control.
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NiIN(7ITS
PAIM DFSII�`P PI�II�IIJIlJG �M�SSION
FFBRUAKY 20, 1990
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MS. MAUREEN HQ�ISTRA, 74-862 Leslie, was ryot in op�osition, but
was asked to speak to the commission by the kids of the
neighborhood. They walk to and fx�xn sc.nool usirig the wash.
They wanted to krxxa what kind of a foot path would be put
through the wash so that the kids cauld walk to ar�d f�n school.
She stated that these were high sclxx�l kids that asked her, as
well as middle sctx�ol and elementaYy sr,��ool kids. She incii.cated
that these kids like the exercise and it takes t-hem 1 haur 20
minutes ta get Yyane if they travel on the bus.
Cam�issioner Richards asked if Ms. H�n.stra was talking abaut the Cook
Street side. Ms. He�nstxa replied that it was from the Sheryl side--
frcm Sheryl to the middle sahool, fr�an Sheryl to Palm De.sert High
School fran the top of one wash through to the t�ap of the other wash
in the middle, crossirig just before the Portola Nbbile Park and ccme
up at the foot bridge on the other side.
Caimissioner Richards noted that it would be a problem ta have people
crossing where others are hitting golf balls. N�. Diaz suggested
that they walk to Portola and Cook. Ms. Hemstra stated that they
were rxot allawed to walk by the highways because of the traffic and
trucks. Ca►missioner Richards felt that sharing the foot traffic
from Sheryl through the wash on either of the borde.rs might be
sanething that needs to be created. •�
Nll�. DIQC CALL, 74-613 Merle Drive, stated that two signals were
needed: one at Joni and one at Shezyl. He stated that the stop
sign at Joni was more like a pause and slide through sign. He
felt that fran 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. it was daix�erous.
MR. STAN ASSERO, 74-607 Gary Avenue, stated th,at he and his wife
were in fawr of the project because right naw the place was a
dump. He stated that traffic, lights and walkways for kids were
a problem. He felt the problem was that Cook Street at the wash
was a single lane going both directions and on both sides of
that there were two lanes going each direction which created a
neck cic�m situation and the cars race to get single file. He
felt the golf course would be better than a di.ut�.
MR. LONNY WHITTINGTON, off of Fred Waring, felt that the
majority wr�uld rule on the danger an the stx�eet. He indicated
that whenever he had gone to Boardwalk and other stre�ts, he
felt that he was takux� his life into his hands. He stated that
it was a nightmare to drive that stxeet and asked haw much stop
signs cost.
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�i'FS
PAIM DLSERT PLANI�rII� Qt�T'iISSIC[�1
FT�R[�FtY 20, 1990
""" N�. Safavian inforn�d Mr. Whittington that it was not a question of
economics, but that you cbn't install stop signs or txaffic signals '
in locations that do not warrant them because it can irxxease
accidents, which statistics slx7w. He indicated tZx�se guidelines wer�e ',
set by the state. Mr. Safavian informed commissioaz that the '
intersection of Cook and Havley was in the latest stages of d,esign to '
be signalized. He felt this would pravide a lo�ger gap in traffic
flaa, which would be beneficial.
Mr. Whittirigton stated that this might redixce the traffic spE,�ed '
fran 55 mph to at least 45 m�ah. He felt that if that mitigation '
of a txaffic signal at Cook and Havley was oaning, it offered
sane hQpe.
Carmissioner Richards stated that might be the case whP.n dealing with
large develognents when it was determined that tt�e develognent wo�uld
have a ma�or impact for a lor�g time, but that was rnt the case in
this situation. He ind.icated that a signal aosts approximately
$125,000. He also rx�ted that the area in questian was recently
aruzexed into the city and the city has a loa�g term goal of installing ,
an all weather bridge aver Cook and that in part wo�ld go with the '
freeway intersection. He felt that traffic would not be getting ',
better, but it could be made safer. He indicated that this type of
project in an area that had a history of proble�ns with d�IInpi.rig, was
"� worth listening to and would do what it oould.
Ntr�. Whittingtan indicated that he more fully understood the
problems that could occur with puttirig in stop sigrLs that were
not warranted. He felt tY�e city was doir�g a good �ob.
Mr. Stan Assero addressed. the cc�Lissi� and asked if it was
expea�sive to widen Cook S�t at the wash.
Mr. Safavian did not feel it was appropriate to sperui tax dollars for
a road ttiat w�uld be used temporarily for approximately two years.
N�. Assero stated that the city stwuld determine if they would rather
spend scR� money or have saneone hurt. Nfr. Safavian stated that the
problem was not really the number of lanes, but speeding and
intersection control, which was not necessarily an issue of this
project. Mr. Assero agreed that part of the problem was haw the road
nasY�aaed.
Nfr. Diaz rwted that the issue being discussed was rr�t the golf club,
but the traffic on Cook Street and felt that whether anythirig was
done on this project, there would still be �,erns an Cook. N�.
Diaz felt the matter shQuld be continued to the next meeting and at
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NIII�UI�
PAII�I DFSERT PLAN�TTII� �I+T�SSIC�1
F�RLm,RY 20, 1990
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that meeting the traffic erx�ineer cauld bring back the entire plan
for Cook Street and the in�act of this p%j ect o� Oook St��eet with
evexythisx� that w�uld be cbr�e, inclucii.rig the signalizatioal at Havley
and Cook, the stop signs, the widening and Mello R�oos and the bridge.
MR. DAVE EVANS, with the applicant, stated that they c3o want to
build a golf course and want it to be a c�ood thing for Palm
Desert. He indicated that there would be a patrollir�g guard.
They met with the haneawners associatian of Portola Crnurtry Club
and felt everythirig wo�uld be wor}ced out. They would provide
fencing to keep people fran driving cars and trucks, bikes or
motorcycles on their property. He indicated. that they wnuld be
sper�ding approximately $2,200,000 on the pro�ect. He stated
that they w�uld do eve�ything within their b�dget to put into
operation scmething that would be good for Pa]m Desert in that
area.
Commissioner Jonathan asked how Ntr�. Evans would feel about the
restriction on gas pawered golf carts and night lighting. Mr. Et�ans
stated that they have rn plans for night lights and no plans for
gasoline golf carts--he indicated that the oail.y carts usirx3 gas woi.�ld
be the maintenance carts.
NIRS. TONI ASSERO, 74-607 Gary Avenue, asked about the projected +•�'
start and finish dates and haw mariy golfers were expected on a
daily or weekly basis for traffic.
Mr. Et�ans indicated there w�uld be approxunately 100 golfers per
day in January, Febn.iary, April and Navecnber; 112 per day in
March; 80 in May; 75 in June; 50 in July; 38 in August; and 75
in December. He stated that the start date wvuld be May 15 and
openirx3 w�uld be Navember 1, 1990.
Mr. Pena stated that the canditians of approval provide for
signalization participation at that intersection. In regards to
the fe.ncing along the h�anes on that side there would be scme
fencing, landscaping or a livirig wall and there was a oondition
for sidewalk along C'.00k Street for access to the sr.tx�ol. He
concurred with those aonditions.
C�aizperson Whitlock asked that the security issue be clarified. Nfr.
Pena stated that it would be a security guard patrolling in the
eveni.rig and some sort of security fencing ad►nissable by the water
district and maybe a stretch cable along the area that weuld nQt
ii�ede the water flaw when that channel was full and something to
keep vehicles out and off the golf course.
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NII.�TI'�S
PAIM DESI�ZT PLAIV[1Il� QM�SSI�1
F�R[�RY 20, 1990
`~ MR. C��RLES OOLII�N, in Portola Country Club, asked what the
fees w�uld be on the course. Mr. �ans replied $22 pe.r round,
not including the cart.
Cfiairperson Whitlock closed the public testimoa�y.
Commissioner Richards stated that he wr7uld vote appzr�val of the
proj ect �ased on the nwnber of problems that exist being wc�rked aut
and making tYx�se issues �nditions of appmval. He felt that staff '
should have resolved the aanership problgn before it came to public '
hearirig. He stated that the problem between Portola Caurtry Club,
the water district and others str�uld be worked aut in regard,s to
a�mership and that be placed as a ooa�zditian of approval. He also
felt the issue of a ferir�e or open space for the residents oaz Gary was
up to the neighbors--he stated that was a rx�rmal ooridition of
apprr�val. He indicated that he would like the developer to attempt a
� way to deal with the kids' situation and hav�e alcxzg the b�rders of
Cook Street and Portola a sidewalk thrnugh the wash that would not '
impede the project's security problems or liability problems. He
stated that the att�pt should be made to pravide a walk path fr�an '
one side of the wash to the other at approximately the Cook Street '
side--he indicated scme sort of a pa.th was needed even if it was
dirt, but one that was level. He felt the golf ball bauncing problem
�, should be addressed, either in design of the golf oaurse layc�ut or in '
sane o�her way. He indicated that the residents shauld ccme to the '
calmission if they were losing their win�]aws every other week--he
wanted that issue cavered so that cannission c�ould tell the developer
to caver it.
Carmissioner Jonathan asked if the gas carts and no night lighting
were included in the added conditions. C7�airperson Whitlock stated
that she would like it added in the motion. Catmissioner Richards
concurred.
Mr. Diaz informed commission that staff was not aware of the
ownership problem until four days ago. He stated that one conaern of
staff was that a decision shr,nild rx�t be made in haste and the
condition that the developer and the Portola Cauntxy Club wr�rk out .
their agreements, that agre�nent reached might r�t be satisfactory to
the city. He felt that within the next two week.s tYbse tl�ings could
be worked out.
Conmissioner Er�x�od felt that was a good point and r�oted that in many
instances in the past for less justification a project had been
continued to iron all the matters out and felt that staff's concern
was valid.
11
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�
PAIM DFSF�2T F'I,At�SIlJG �M�LISSICH�1
F� 20, 1990
�, �
Ccamissioner Dawns asked if the applicant wr�uld agree to a two weP,k
continuance. Mr. Pena agreed to a tvar�-week aontinuanr.e: he info�
camiission that they also had bee.n surprised that tt�e water district
did not a�m that land. Caimissioner Richards stated that his oancern
was that a lot of residents were present th,at might not be able to
cane to the next meeting. He shared ��issioa�er �ti�od's ooa�i,
but felt that a oount sYxnzld be taken of the oatmissi�.
CamLissioner Jonathan stated that he would second a motion for
appraval, but wanted to enoourage the people present not to give up
on the traffic problem in th.at area.
Chairperson Whitlock stated that she also had rb objection to a
motion of approval.
Action:
Nbved by Carmissioner Richar�7s, seconded by CamLissio�er Jonathan,
approving the findings as presented by staff. Carried 4-1
(Cannissioner �Y��od voted rx�).
Nbved by Carmissioner Richa�rLs, seaanded by Cannissio��er Joa�ath�l,
adopting Plaruzing Carmission Resalution No. 1421, appraving C(JP 90-
6, subject to conditions as amended. C�rried 4-1 (Cannissioner �rlr'
Er��od voted no).
Chairperson Whitlock called a five minute recess at 8:33 p.m.
B. Case IJ�. Z�' 25fi01 - A� PATEL, Applicant
Rec�uest for approval of a 19 lot sir�gle family
subdivision on 4.75 acres south of Havley Lane, '
2,000 feet east of Nbnterey Avenue.
Mr. Joy outlined the salient points of the staff report and
recomn�.nded appraval.
Camussioner Jonath�Z asked about the miriiurnan lot sizes. N�. Joy
replied that the minilrnIIn lot width was 60 feet wide.
Chairperson Whitlock opened the public testimony and asked the
applicant to address the c�onmission.
MR. JAMES MAY, 24-801 Plodden in Laguna Nigel, representing N�.
Patel, stated that the average lot size was 8,400 square feet.
12
ur+
N�IV(TI�S
PAIM DESIIZT PLANIIIl� 0.'M��SSI(�1
F�RUARY 20, 1990
"" He stated that he had no problem with the ooa�dttio�s. He asked
about drainage fees and if they wauld be used at a later date
for sca� type of drainage in that area.
Mr. Diaz indicated those fees w�uld be used to help protect that area '
from drainage.
C�airperson Whitlock asked if anycme present wished to speak in FAVOR
or 0�'P06ITICN to the proposal. There was rio o�e and the publ.ic
testimony was closed.
Action-
Moved by Commissioner powns, seconded by Commissioner EYw��od, '
appravirig the findirlgs as presented by staff. Carried 5-0.
Moved by Commissioner powns, seconded by Commissioner �y,�od, '
acbpting Planriing Cannissian Resolution No. 1422, app�raving TT 25601,
subject to conditions. Carried 5-0. ,
C. Ca._se No. TT 2A866 - S{XTI'E�TEST PA�I�iS, Applicant
Request for approval of a five lot tentative map
and negative declaratian to allaw faur hanesites
``� and dedicated open space on 7.73 acres gene.rally
located on the west side of the Palm Valley Storm
Channel across frcm the Scamerset Cor�aninituns. �
Chairperson Whitlock informed commission that she would be
abstaining.
Mr. Smith outlined the salient points of the staff report and
recaYmended appraval, subject to conditions. He noted that the o�ly
unusual condition was the requ.irecnP.nt of the str�et color be color-
coated to blend in with the existing hillside. He also indicated
that the applicant had expressed concern abaut aondition #4 of public
works which required a mininn�m 32 foot wide travelway. They hoped to
get by with somethulg less. t�. Safavian su.ggested a charige that a
travelway width not be limited, but as detexmined by the director of
public works.
Canaissioner Jonathan asked about access. N�. Smith aonfiYmed that
the access wr�uld be through Thrush and the road w�uld be ooi�,structed
to the project from �he water distxict road. N�. Smith de,nbnstxated
on the map what was proposed. Further discussion occurred on
potential sites for road access, develognent of adjacent parcels, an
13
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r+IIN[TPES
. PAIM DFSgtT PII�NNIl� 0.'rT�SSI�1
F�SR[lAEtY 20, 1990
�
averall roadway improvement plan and road stand��rds and maintenance
through possible assessment districts. Cam►issioazer Richards felt
that the road standards sYxxild be detennirved for the whr�le area
before any other develognents were appraved.
Chairperson Whitlock o ed the public testima�Yy and asked if the
applicant wished to address the arm�issioa�.
MR. RICHARD HOWARD, 79-820 Camel Back in Bermuda Dunes,
. indicated that it was his intentioa� with the c3�veloper to the
nc�rth to imprave the road and it was Nh�. Cl�n's intent to bring
the road up to the proposed property and share the cost, which
they were in the process of wor}cing out with CVWD. He indicated
that scme type of instructioai was needed fran the city as to
what standards the road stxx.ild be and they wer�a willing to work
with Ntr�. Clem to the north with an ovexall plan aoa'�ducive to all
the property awners to access his property. He felt safe access
to their property was necessary for their four hanesites. He
did not feel it was appropriate to put a large city requirement
street struct�re, but sanething conducive with the natural
terrain of the area. .
Camtissioner Jonathan asked if the impravernents to the road being
contemplated extended cia�ni to Thnash. Mr. Haward replied yes, that �
it was appro�nately one mile fran their pra�erty border to Thrush
and they ��uld pave in the areas between the aoncrete spillways. He
stated that it was their intent to pravide nice, paved roadways for
the YxxneoRaners. After further discussion regardi.ng the roadways and
access, C7iairperson Whitlock asked if anyo�e wished to speak in FAWR
or OPPC�ITI�I to the proposal.
MR. HURBERT N�YER, 48-600 Oakv�x�od Way, representing Sannerset
Hanecx�mers Association. He had some questians abaut the access
and which bridge they would be using. He wo�ndered haw the
constzuction equi�zt would be able to access the bridge roads.
He was also concerned about the presexvatio�n of the hillside and
did r�t want any visible roads.
MS. IRENE TAFFY, 72-306 Blueridge Court, asked for and received
clarification on the location of the road being discussed.
Cannissioner Jonathan explained that the road would go through
Thrush bridge belaw the church and Indian Cxee.k. She objected
to viewing the h�mes fran her patios.
Canmissioner Richards outlined the strict requirernents for builduzg
in the hillside. Ms. Taffy stated that they bought their hane two
14 �
�+II1�I�F�
PAIM DFSI�T PI11I�II�ING 0.T'I�IISSI�I
F'ID�R[J11RY 20, 1990
"" years ago and were told that rr�thu�g would ever be developed to block
their views. Ccnmissioner Jo�athan explaiu�ed that the hanes would be
there, but aver five acres would remain undisturbed and while they
might be visible, ther�e would mt be lush laridscaping or a lot of
roads. Commissianer E�ti�od explained that the hillside building
requirements were restrictive and the city was in a p�siticaz that it
allaw some restricted develo�lt or purchase the hillsides.
Nfft. JERRY DII�IINGI'ON, 7�-894 Lenr�oan Place, stated that he was
the erx�ineer on the pro�ect. He asked CaRntssio��er Richards wYYy
he was concerned about tt�e road beir�g aantinued to the tract
rr�rth of the pro j ect. ,
Commissioner Richards stated that his reasoci was that the city
standard was 32 foot wide roads, which probably couldn't be , ',
accanplished witYwut blasting out roc,�k; the spillways wpxe there and
while it might be possible to redesign them to handle traffic and
still transport water, that had not yet beP.n determined; the fire
marshal w�ould also need a nunimum 24 foot road, but with some
creative conditions, it aould be chariged (i.e. using sprinklers in
the Y�ies). He indicated that he would like to see the city cane up
with a better set of guidelines so that auners in tha� area w�uld
}u�w what wauld be expected and the oosts involv�ed.
�" N�. Denriirx�ton concurred, but ind.icated that t�ne was of the
essence and felt they would be able to go along with the north
tract as it was conditioned.
Commissioner Richards stated that he did not like the access as
proposed and felt a bridge halfway in between might be a solutian.
Nfft. TC�NI JOI-�15TON, 71-386 Halgar in Rancho Mirage, indicated that
he was a principle in the project and stated that their neighbor
to the north has an apprc�ved project and asked what requireinents
were asked of that property awner regardi.ng the road.
Caimissioner Richards felt that the city had been sitting back too
long and felt if more develo�azt was allowed, the requirements
shQuld rwt be done in a patchwork maruzer. He wanted set standards
for roads in that area. After further discussion, it was determined
that the matter would be continued for faur weP.ks to allaw the
applicant to work with city staff and C,''VWD to determine set
standards. Staf f suggested including Nh�. Cl�n and Cannissioner
Richards suggested the applicant also talk with Mr. Fox.
15
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NIIIVCTI'FS
PAIM DL'SLRT PLANNII� 0."M��SSIQ�J
F�BRtTAFtY 20, 1990
�
' Action•
Moved by Commissioner powns, seaar�dded by Catmissio��er Jor�athan,
continuing TT 24866 to March 20, 1990. Carried 4-0-1 (C7iairper�on
Whitlock abstained).
D. Case Nos. PM 24090 and PM 25875 - AHI�IANSON QOI�R�RCTAT•
DE�IELLAPN�P QMPANY, Applicant
Request for approval of tentativ�e parcel maps
creating parcels defined by the Ahmanson
C��rcial DevelognEnt Agreement.
N�. Drell outlined the salient points of the staff report.
C�airperson Whitlock o�ed the public testimorYy and asked if the
. applicant wished to address the aamussion.
MR. C�-�ARLES BEECE�R, 3191 Temple Avenue in Pomoa-ia, stated that
he reviewed the staff report and took m excepti� to it. He
was trying to get the legal open space to dedicate it to the
city and create the two developable par�cels and anQther parcel
map to get a subdivision endQrsemP.nt thr�ugh the title oanpany.
�
C�zairperson Whitlock asked if anyone present wished to speak in FAVOR
or OPP06ITI�1 to the proposal.
Nfft. GDORGE F�OX stated that he would like to address two issues
to begin a tYx�ught pz�ocess. In one area there was an easernent
granted by the original awner (�z) and t,u�dex legal advice
� fr�an his attorney, he indicated that whatever easements they had
recorded and given to the property at that time may be
addressed. In that regard the easement as originally given was
to assay Highway 111, th+e non-interdicted high�way to give this
, property freec3�n of mavement east and west. Over the years the
CVWD had interdicted Painters Path, which is the site of old
Highway 111. He indicated there were two ways to g�: 1) perfect �
the easeinent to the present Highway 111, which might ryot be in
the best interest of the city; or 2) perfect the easement in
Painters Path with a bridge. He stated that they were naw in
dialogue with CVWD on the basis that the interdictian was caused
by CVWD. He felt that "them that broke it has to fix it",
natirx� that their position may r�ot be his. He indicated that
the city's position was }�m, because it was decided at the
city council. His awn feelirlg was that what the planning
carmission decided At�unan.son was to deed a paL�cel of land as a
16 �
1'1.1�1`1�/1�
PAIM DESF�T F'I.AI�T� Q,'M'�IISSI(�I
k�BR[]A�Y 20, 1990
" buffer and mave Painters Path with the bridge; he felt this was
the perfect solution. He stated that if it came to pass in
their dialogue and le�gal machinations with GVWD that they would '
be forced to redo the bridge, the plans for the Ahmanson
Develognerit have gone to the point where that land was r�o longer
available to Painters Path, then t-hey have lost the parkway
which was conducive to the neighborhood. He indicated that he
just wanted the planning aannissian to }uxxa what was goir�g on
and that they were tzying to get that bridge back in. He stated
that it was o�n the right--of-way of GVWD, which they ac�nitted to,
and they would be happy to take off that rea�-por�sibility and if `
the city wanted to build a bridge they wvuld sign off. He told
them that the city's position was that tt�y aould have received
the bridge gratis fran Ahmanson and they did rbt want it. He
stated that they were forcefully addressing that. Otherwise, he
was in full favor of the develognent and felt that it w�uld be
good for the city.
Chairperson Whitlock closed the public testimcaYy.
Action:
Moved by Commissioner powns, seconded by Cannissioner Richards,
appraving the fincliux�s as presented by staff. Carried 5-0.
.�..
Moved by Commissioner powns, seconded by Comnissianer Ric,h�rds,
adoptirlg Planning Carmission Resolution No. 1423, appro�ving P'M 24090,
subject to conditions. Carried 5-0.
Maved by Carmissioner DcxarLs, seconded by Commissioner Richards,
ac3�pting Planning Carinission Resolution No. 1424, appraving PM 25875,
subject to conditions. Carried 5-0.
F. Ca._9e No. PP 9�1 - �II�.�Pf-I ��LE.Y, Applicant
Request for appraval of a 10,000 square foot
office building and associated parkir�g lot and
greenbelt to be located at 73-330 Highway 111 ar�d
44-885 San BerLito Circle.
Mr. Drell outlined the salient points of the staff report and stxxaed
a video of the area. He explained that timin� betw�een develapment of
an individual parcel apart fran a coordinated plan was presentirig a
problem. He indicated that although the zorurig and parkirx� issues
were unresolved, the applicant needed feedback and direction so he
could pursue possible solutions. He asked aarnLission to determine if
17
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MIIV�TI'ES
PAI�i DESERT PLANI�TII� QiK��IISSI(YV ,
FIDR[]ARY 20, 1990
�
the tw� story aver parku�g was an acceptable am.hitectural design and
if it were, which building alt-,psT�ativ�e was preferred. He indicated
that if the ground floor parking plan was unacceptable, then
c.aimission s2muld direct the applicant to pursue possibilities of
acquiring more property so that all required parkir�g aould be
accam�dated in the rear lot. Or oatmissi� cauld initiate the
creation of a zonirig ordinance amer�hnent and/or a change of zoa�e to
permit cannercial parking oor�sistent with the reaam�e.rldatio�s of the
Palma Village and Commercial Core Specific Plans. Staff and
ccmnission discussed possible alternatives.
Chairperson Whitlock opened the public testimoa�y and asked if the
applicant wished to address the c�cintission.
MFt. �I OOF�LLEY, 38-042 C�ncus in Palm Valley, ir�dicated that
the alternate parking plan presented conformed with city
standards. Mr. Drell aonc..vrred that the spaces confoxm and
there would still be three ccmpacts in the back, but the rnunber
of confoYming spaces did nr�t meet the star�dard. N� Co�{eley
asked if they were able to make the back lot ooriform, if the
project w�ould aonform in all ways. N�. Drell aoncurred. N�.
Cokeley stated that he would like to see the planning cannission
give him an appraval of the project subject to their being able
to aonfonn the back parking lot, which would enable them to '�
approach the adj acent property awners.
Cannissioner Jonathan stated that he did r�t fawr the tw� stoxy use
aver the parking. He did rx�t feel it was in the right place in Palm
Desert and did not feel the three story appearance was appropriate.
Mr. Cokeley noted that they were five feet belaw the Highway.
CamLissioner Jonatht-�n stated that the problem was the aesthetic
implicatiQns of a three story building. Camdssianer Richards
concurred and indicated that if the building at least fran the frn�nt
appeared to be two story with the und in the back, it
might be acceptable.
After further discussion, Chairperson Whitlock asked if any�one
present wished to speak in FAVOR or OPP06ITICN to the proposal.
. MR. PAUL DOVE, 44-830 San Clemerite Circle, felt the project
wr�uld be an improvemerit to the frontage road and was in favor of
that, but expressed conceni about the noise level of the parkirx�
lot. He suggested that if the contractor's wanted to build
parkirig lots, that perhaps they oould build block walls adjacent
to the properties. Ntr�. Drell stated that t,��y wrn.ild be required
to do that. Mr. Dave stated that there was rx� wall at the
18 �
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�
NBNCTI'FS
PAIM DESERT F'LArII�TIl� Q2T+IISSICN
F�BR[�1RY 20, 1990 ;
�
,.., i
Enterprise building and they heard the cars frccn that and the '
Red Barn and also irxiicated that those owr�ex's let the olear�ders
die, which had helped to rec3�ice the rx�ise. N�. Dave iruii.cated �
that the fonrier aaner of the Nbbile Station/car wash used to
dump all his stuff back there which wauld drain into their �
swiimLirig pool after every August flood.
Comnissioner ��x�od stated that a wall would definitely be required.
Mr. Drell r�oted that the r�wner of the Enterprise was Rolar�d Sweat and ;
he had sulxnitted a plan for a parkirig lot without a buildir�g. He ,,
indicated that once a zoa�e was established to pennit that, they oauld '
attach the wall oon.stYuction as a �itioaz. Mr. Drell explained II
that he needed sane sort of di.rection that w�uld lead to the ap�prr�val ',
of this plan, direction for a resolution of cleizi.al or cantinuarlae. ,
If there were three wtes agai.nst the two story aver the parking �,
plan, a den.ial w�uld be in order. He stated that if the c7wner went '�
out to buy additional property to ocmply with the standards, he
needed to know if commission would approve the buildu�g. If
catmission wouldn't, then there would be r�o point for him to go to
that exper�.se.
Chairperson Whitlock closed the public hearing and stated that she
liked the plan as presented. She was in favor of the way that the
„" building was stepped back and was not opposed to the existing parking
layout. Commissioner Er�,�od concurred, assumi.rig that the extxa
parking was solved. Mr. Drell asked which plan the commission
preferred. Catrnission indicated that they prefexr�ed alternative 1.
Mr. Drell also indicated that there would be a dedication of faur
feet to get a full 24 foot legal alley for circulatian. C.cnmissioner
Ikxarls stated that he was in favor of the plan and the parkiux� in the
rear and adding parking as a aonditional use in the R-1 zoa�be.
Carcnissioner Jonathan asked for and received clarification that the
motion would be to infonn the applicant th.at if t� oould solve his .
parking problem he would likely get three votes for appro�val; and to
i ni tiate a zoniuzg ordinance amenc�nent adding parkiuzg as a oonditional
use in the R-1 zone. Catmissioner F`rurood clarified that the motion
should be for the zoning issue only. Staff oo�zcurred. Catmissioner
Jonathan r�oted that the carmission was r�ot voting on the project
itself, but on alternative 1 to solve the par}cing problem.
Action:
Moved by Commissioner powns, seconded by Commissioner E�tia�od,
instructing staff to initiate a zoniux3 ordinance amenc�nent addiuzg
parkirig as a conditional use in the R-1 zone when adjacent to a G1
zone and when consistent with specific plans. Carried 5-0.
19
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D+iII�IIT�
PAIM DFSII�P PL�I�TII� �NNiISSI�I
F�R[TARY 20, 1990
�
VIII. NiI
A. Ca._�ae No. CUP 90-5 - SE�DCJ4V MX)NPAIl�T C�OLF C7��, Applica�t
Presentatian of the resolution of derLial to a
request for approval of a co�ditional use permtt
to allaw associated golf club management office
use in a single family residence ad,�acent to the
Shaciaw Nbuntain Golf Club, 73-720 Irorx��od.
Chairperson Whitlock r�oted that thPxe was a resolution of denial
presented and asked for a m�tion.
Action:
Moved by Commissioner E���od, seconded by Cannissioner Jonathan,
appraving the fincli.ngs as presented by staff. C��rried 5-0.
Moved by Commissioner ���od, seconded by Co�mdssioner Jonat,han,
adr�pting Planning Ccmnission Re�olution No. 1425, denying QIP 90-5.
Carried 5-0.
IX. OR11L ai`T�JNICATIC[ZS
�
None.
X. QTT�3�lI5
None.
XI.
Moved by Commissioner powns, seaonded by Camlissioner Richar�3s,
adjourning the meeting. Carried 5-0. The meetirig was jaurned at
10:36 p.m.
• �� .
A. DIAZ, S
A'I�I'EST:
+� �. ,
a � � � �
.. �..�.�' ✓�,.G�,aC�:�' .
CAROL WHITI�OCT<, Qzaizperson
/17n
20 �