HomeMy WebLinkAbout1985-12-19MINUTES
ADJOURNED/REGULAR CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY. DECEMBER 19, 1985
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
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I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Kelly called the meeting to order at 4:00 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman Walter H. Snyder
III. INVOCATION - Mayor Richard S. Kelly
IV. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Jean M. Benson
Mayor Pro-Tempore Phyllis Jackson
Councilman S. Roy Wilson
Councilman Walter H. Snyder
Mayor Richard S. Kelly
Also Present:
Bruce A. Altman, City Manager
Carlos L. Ortega, Assistant City Manager (arrived 7:00)
David Yrigoyen, Administrative Assistant
David J. ErKin, City Attorney
Mary P. Frazier, Deputy City Clerk
Kirby J. Warner, Director of General Services (arrived 7:00)
Paul Gibson, Accounting Supervisor
Steve Smith, Acting Director of Community Services
Richard J. Folkers, Director of Public Works
Frank Allen, Director of Code Compliance
NOTE: SONE ITEMS ON THE AGENDA WERE TAKEN OUT OF ORDER; HOWEVER, FOR
CLARIFICATION PURPOSES, THE MINUTES WILL REFLECT ACTION TAKEN ON ITEMS
IN ORDER OF APPEARANCE ON THE AGENDA FOR DECEMBER 19, 1985.
V. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION OF RESOLUTION OF APPRECIATION to Captain
Mike Lewis of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department.
Mayor Kelly read and presented a resolution of apprecia-
tion to Captain Mike Lewis and commended him for his
outstanding efforts on behalf of the City of Palm Desert
and its residents.
Captain Lewis thanked the Council and stated he believed
in community involvement in law enforcement, and the City
had been exemplary in involving itself in this process.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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VI. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of December
12, 1985.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Demand No.
86-056. 86-057, 86-059. and 86-061.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by The South-
land Corporation for 7-Eleven Food Store 2131-new, 72-180
Highway 111, Palm Desert, California 92260.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY by Aviva Wilde In the Amount of
$1,986.63 for Alleged Vehicle Damages Sustained in an
accident on October 19, 1985.
Rec: Deny the Claim and Instruct the City Clerk to
so Advise the Claimant.
E. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY by Ted Snyder, Jr., in an Unspeci-
fied Amount for Alleged Personal Injuries Sustained by
Beverly E. Snyder on November 15, 1985, at 73-970 El
Paseo, Palm Desert, California.
Rec: Deny the Claim and Instruct the City Clerk to
so Advise the Claimant.
F. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY by Evelyn Villarreal in the Amount
of $50,100.00 for Alleged Injuries and Damages Sustained
in an Accident at the Intersection of Plaza Way and El
Paseo, Palm Desert, California.
Rec: Deny the Claim and Instruct the City Clerk to
so Advise the Claimant.
G. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY by Tanya Sanchez in the Amount of
Approximately $50,000 for Alleged Injuries and Damages
Sustained in an Accident at the Intersection of Plaza Way
and El Paseo, Palm Desert, California.
Rec: Deny the Claim and Instruct the City Clerk to
so Advise the Claimant.
H. AWARD OF CONTRACT for Construction of San Pablo Bikeway
(Contract No. 00-074).
Rec:
By Minute Motion, award Contract No. 00-074 for
the construction of the San Pablo Bikeway to
Massey Sand and Rock Company in the amount of
$21,343.60.
I. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. 1088 -
Traffic Signal Modifications at Fred Waring Drive/Portola
Avenue.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to
file a Notice of Completion for Contract No.
1088.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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Mr. Altman requested that Item A be continued to the meeting
of January 9, 1986.
Upon question by Councilman Wilson, Mr. Erwin responded that
there was potential exposure for the City Council and employees
because the City no longer has liability insurance coverage as
of December 5th; however, the Council, at its meeting of
December l2th, had authorized a reserve fund to cover anything
that might come up since the expiration date of the insurance
coverage. He stated that claims against the City which
occurred after December 5th would no longer be referred to the
insurance carrier; instead, he would be reviewing these claims
and they would then go to the Council for action. He added
that as long as employees and the Council were acting within
the scope of their office or position, the City was required
to indemnify and defend them against any suits.
Upon motion by Jackson, second by Wilson, and unanimous vote
of the Council, the Consent Calendar was approved as presented with the
exception of Item A, which was continued to the meeting of January 9,
1986.
VII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
MR. BRIAN MALONEY of Cathedral City asked to address the
Council relative to the skateboard ordinance.
Mr. Altman stated that it was already an Agenda item; however,
Mayor Kelly noted that it was not a public hearing and allowed
Mr. Maloney to speak.
He stated that he works in Palm Desert and also attends classes
at College of the Desert --his only transportation is a bus from
home to work and then his skateboard from work to school. He
felt that if skateboards were to be prohibited, the same should
be done for bicycles as he did not feel bicycles were any more
safe than skateboards.
Upon question by Councilmember Benson, Mr. Maloney responded
that his office was at Highway 111 and Deep Canyon, and it
takes him five to ten minutes to ride his skateboard to school.
Mayor Kelly stated that Mr. Maloney's comments would be kept
in mind when the Council considered the skateboard ordinance
later in the meeting.
At 5:00 P.M. Mr. Altman stated that members of Desert Sands
Unified School District had arrived. Upon motion by Wilson, second by
Snyder, and unanimous vote of the Council, Mayor Kelly adjourned to
Closed Session under Government Code Section 54956.7(c) for the purpose
of discussing pending litigation. He noted that the Council would not
reconvene until 7:00 p.m.
MAYOR KELLY RECONVENED THE COUNCIL MEETING AT 7:00 P.M. WITH NO
ACTION TAKEN OR ANNOUNCED.
VIII. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 85-134 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RESCINDING
RESOLUTION NO. 83-7 AND ADOPTING A POLICY FOR REIMBURSE-
MENT OF EXPENSES FOR CONFERENCE OR FUNCTION ATTENDANCE BY
CITY REPRESENTATIVES.
Mr. Altman reported that a subcommittee of himself, Mayor
Kelly, Councilmember Benson and Kirby Warner had met
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
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DECEMBER 19, 1985
regarding reimbursement of expenses for conferences and
functions attended by City representatives and had
recommended this resolution.
Upon question by Councilman Wilson, Mayor Kelly responded
that the City would pay for the cost of a delegate only;
no spouse costs would be covered.
Upon motion by Jackson, second by Benson, and unanimous vote
of the Council, Resolution No. 85-134 was adopted as amended to show
"The City will pay the full room cost for the delegate only."
IX. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 446 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT. CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION
8.16.020 OF CHAPTER 8.16 PERTAINING TO OWNER'S RESPONSI-
BILITY FOR REFUSE REMOVAL.
Mr. Altman reviewed the staff report in detail, noting
that the Municipal Code currently requires that trash be
picked up twice a week for commercial establishments;
however, there are some establishments which do not need
service that often, and the ordinance would authorize
once a week pickup for compactors with approval of the
Health Department.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Jackson, and unanimous vote
of the Council, Ordinance No. 446 was passed to second reading.
B. ORDINANCE NO. 447 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 5.98,
SECTION 5.98.010 TO 5.98.130 TO THE CITY CODES PERTAINING
TO TEMPORARY DANCE AND TEMPORARY ENTERTAINMENT PERMITS,
OUTDOOR FESTIVALS AND SPORTING EVENTS.
Mr. Altman reported that the Council had previously
considered this ordinance and had referred it to the
Police Advisory Committee for more study.
Sgt. Jake Bowser reported that the Sheriff's Department
had originally proposed that an ordinance of this kind be
adopted to assist with anticipated problems with functions
such as rock concerts and large gatherings. He added
that the ordinance as proposed had gone beyond its
original intent because it would not be an effective tool
for law enforcement. He requested that the Council table
the Ordinance.
Councifinember Jackson asked whether, under this ordinance,
homeowners having functions on their own property but
with more than 75 people would be required to obtain a
permit.
Sgt. Bowser responded that this was where the ordinance
had gone beyond its original intent. He added that he
would not want to go out and try to enforce the ordinance
in this kind of situation.
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Jackson, Ordinance No. 447
was TABLED by unanimous vote of the Council.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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C. ORDINANCE N0. 448 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT. CALIFORNIA, PROHIBITING SKATE-
BOARDS AND SIMILAR DEVICES ON ROADWAYS WITHIN BUSINESS
DISTRICTS.
Mr. Allen reviewed the staff report in detail, noting
that the ordinance does not prohibit skateboards in
residential areas.
Sgt. Bowser stated that both Highway 74 and Portola
Avenue were long, downhill runs that kids have been using
for skateboard runs. He added that he would like the
kids off the major thoroughfares because of the high
speeds of the vehicles and the hazards to skateboarders.
He also felt the City had the authority to make misde-
meanors an infraction and that this could be a ticket
rather than an arrest situation. He stated the Police
Department did not intend to get into any kind of permit
or licensing situations for skateboards. Currently, the
only way law enforcement personnel can take action is if
they see a car being forced to change lanes to avoid a
skateboarder.
Councilmember Benson asked whether a ticket could be
issued to a minor, and Mr. Erwin responded that it was
legal to do so.
Councilman Wilson suggested that this matter be continued
for a month and that staff be directed to address the
items brought up by Sgt. Bowser and Mr. Maloney (under
Oral Communications). He also felt the ordinance should
be written so that people who ride skateboards for
transportation are not completely restricted --perhaps
provide that they stay in the bicycle lanes.
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Benson, Ordinance No. 448 was
continued to the meeting of January 23, 1986, by unanimous vote of the
Council.
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 443 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA REPEALING SECTIONS
9.48.010, 9.48.020, AND 9.48.030 OF THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE AND ADDING A NEW SECTION 9.48.010 RELATING
TO PSYCHIC ACTIVITIES.
Mr. Altman reported that no further input had been
received since first reading of this ordinance.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Benson, Ordinance No. 443 was
adopted by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. ORDINANCE NO. 444 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION
10.36.010 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE RELATIVE TO ESTABLISHING
NEW SPEED ZONES.
Mr. Altman reported that no further input had been
received since first reading of this ordinance.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Benson, Ordinance No. 444 was
adopted by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Wilson voting N0.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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C. ORDINANCE NO. 445 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A ZONING
ORDINANCE AMENDMENT ADDING RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS AS
A CONDITIONAL USE TO THE PR AND R-1-M ZONES.
Mr. Altman reported that there had been no changes since111
first reading of this ordinance.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Jackson, Ordinance No. 445
was adopted by a 3-2 vote of the Council, with Councilmember Benson and
Mayor Kelly voting NO.
X. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
XI. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF TWENTY FOUR FOOT BELL TOWER FOR
NEWMAN CENTER REMODEL AT SOUTHWEST CORNER OF FRED WARING
AND SAN PABLO.
Mr. Altman stated that there was a memo in the packets
and that staff would answer any questions.
Councilmember Jackson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the
height exception for Newman Center bell tower/parapet. Motion was
seconded by Wilson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Snyder
voting NO.
B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF MODIFICATION TO WORK HOURS FOR
PORTOLA STORM DRAIN PROJECT.
Mr. Altman reviewed the staff report and offered to
answer any questions.
Counciimembers Benson and Wilson stated their concern
with the 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. starting times. Mr. Altman
responded that starting earlier in the day would lessen
the impact on traffic.
Councilman Snyder stated he would not mind some early
morning starting times in order to have this section
completed more quickly.
Mayor Kelly stated that the work hours could always be
re-evaluated if there were problems or complaints.
Councilman Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion, waive the work
hours requirements of Ordinance No. 420 for the Portola Storm Drain
segment between the Whitewater Channel and Fairway Drive. Motion was
seconded by Jackson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
C. REQUEST FOR ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATION, FOR IMPROVEMENTS
AT SPORTS COMPLEX (Continued from Meeting of December 12,
1985).
Upon motion by Jackson, second by Snyder, and unanimous vote
of the Council, this matter was continued to the meeting of January 9,
1986.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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0. AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR COLLEGE OF THE DESERT BALLFIELD
LIGHTING - CONTRACT NO. 00-073 (Continued from the Meeting
of December 12, 1985).
IIUpon motion by Jackson, second by Wilson, this matter was
continued to the meeting of January 9, 1986, by unanimous vote of the
Council.
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E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER TO ARCHITECTURAL
SERVICES CONTRACT FOR C.O.D. BALLFIELD LIGHTING PROJECT.
Mr. Altman recommended approval of this item inasmuch as
the costs had already been incurred in the design of the
project.
Councilmember Jackson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize an
additional $2,000 to cover unexpected costs incurred by the project
architect. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote
of the Council.
F. REPORT ON GOLF ACADEMY AT COLLEGE OF THE DESERT.
Mr. Altman reported that College of the Desert had
requested the City's financial participation in the Desert
Golf institute; he reviewed the memo from Mr. Ortega dated
December 17, 1985.
MR. RICHARD CODD spoke as Director of Development for
College of the Desert and explained how the program would
work.
Councilman Snyder moved to direct staff to continue working
with College of the Desert in assessing the overall plan for the Desert
Golf Institute and determining what funds will be available and the
ability of the College to repay any funding. Motion was seconded by
Benson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Jackson ABSENT.
G. RECOMMENDATION ON NORTH SPHERE SPECIFIC PLAN.
Mr. Altman made a brief presentation to the Council and
noted that the City would be obtaining a proposal from an
economic consultant. He added that no action by the
Council was necessary at this time.
XII. CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XIII. OLD BUSINESS
A. AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR PROJECT MANAGEMENT FOR HIGHWAY 111
WIDENING.
Mr. Altman stated that there was a memo in the packets
and offered to answer any questions.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the
Mayor to execute a contract to retain the firm of Neste, Brudin 8 Stone,
Inc., to provide project management for the Highway 111 widening between
El Paseo and Bob Hope Drive. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried
by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. RECOMMENDATION FROM EL PASEO COMMERCIAL COMMITTEE.
Mr. Altman reviewed the staff report and offered to
answer any questions.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the
formulation of a core commercial area specific plan as outlined in its
report and in the interim consider projects (such as Sunlodge rezoning)
on a case -by -case basis. Motion was seconded by Jackson and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council.
C. AWARD OF CONTRACT for Portola Fire Station Construction
Contract (No. 1098).
Mr. Altman noted that there was a staff report in the
packets and offered to answer any questions.
Mr. Ortega added that the additional $135,000 requested
was for street work and undergrounding.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, award the Portola
Fire Station Construction Contract (No. 1098) in the amount of
$599,999.00 to Roberts Construction Company and appropriate additional
funds in the amount of $135,000 from the City Fire Facilities Fee Account
and New Construction Tax Fund as outlined in the staff report. Motion
was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XIV. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
THIS IS THE TIME AND PLACE FOR THE CITY MANAGER AND DEPARTMENT
HEADS TO PRESENT INFORMATIONAL ITEMS TO THE CITY COUNCIL.
THESE ITEMS MAY REQUIRE INFORMAL DIRECTION FROM THE CITY
COUNCIL OR MAY BE JUST FOR THE PURPOSE OF KEEPING THE MEMBERS
INFORMED OF ACTIVITIES OR PROJECTS WITHIN THE CITY.
A. Portola Storm Drain Project management agreement.
Mr. Altman reported that this would be discussed during
the Redevelopment Agency meeting.
B. Drought Tolerant Plant Task Force report.
Mayor Kelly reported that the members of this task force
were himself, Mr. Altman, Mr. Folkers, Gilbert Ramirez of
the Public Works Department, and Ron Gregory, Chairman of
the City's Architectural Review Committee. They had
recently returned from a trip to Arizona, where they had
found that drought tolerant medians cost approximately
50% less to maintain than grass and that the maintenance
could be done with chemicals once a year.
Mr. Gregory showed slides of the areas in Arizona which
the task force had visited and stated that he had submit-
ted to the City a proposal to do a conceptual plan for
drought tolerant landscaping in the City.
Councilmember Benson moved to accept Mr. Gregory's proposal in
an amount not to exceed $1,500.00 and direct staff to proceed with a
Pilot program for drought tolerant medians on Fred Waring Drive from
Monterey to Town Center Way. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried
by unanimous vote.
C. Discussion of proposed Town Hall meeting.
Mr. Altman reviewed the report in the packets and sug-
gested that Town Hall meetings be held once a year. He
added that this year's meeting would take place on
February 6th at 7:00 p.m., with an open house and tour of
the Civic Center at 6:00 p.m.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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XV. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CONSIDERATION OF AN APPEAL BY JOHN TURNER TO A DECISION
OF THE PALM DESERT PLANNING COMMISSION DENYING A REQUEST
FOR APPROVAL OF A CHANGE OF ZONE FROM PR-5 (PLANNED
RESIDENTIAL, 5 DWELLING UNITS PER ACRE) TO AHDPR-18
(AFFORDABLE HIGH DENSITY PLANNED RESIDENTIAL, 18 DWELLING
UNITS PER ACRE), PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN TO ALLOW 80
RESIDENTIAL UNITS ON 4.85 ACRES ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
MAGNESIA FALLS DRIVE, 676 FEET EAST OF PORTOLA AND A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS IT
PERTAINS THERETO (JOHN M. TURNER, APPLICANT). CASE NO.
C/Z 85-10 AND PP 85-31
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open, and asked for
staff's report.
Mr. Smith reviewed the staff report in detail and offered
to answer any questions.
Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this project.
MR. JEFF ROBERTS, 1453 Browning, Fresno, spoke on behalf
of John Turner. He circulated photos of another develop-
ment by Mr. Turner which he felt demonstrated the quality
of the proposed project for Palm Desert. He outlined how
the project would be built, noting that there would be
two-story buildings with eight units in each building.
He added that it would not be a for sale project and that
there would be on -site management.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this project. The
following people were opposed to the project due to the high
density, increased traffic, and incompatibility with the
existing neighborhood:
MR. ED MALONEY, 385 Via Osono, Palm Desert
MR. JOHN MARSHALL, 43-200 Rutledge. Palm Desert
MR. TIM JOHNSON, 43-101 Portola, Palm Desert
MS. CATHY COTTON, 43-120 Rutledge, Palm Desert
MR. LARRY CHANK, 43-270 Rutledge, Palm Desert
Councilman Wilson asked the applicant if staff had
indicated serious concern with approval of additional high
density when this project was first started.
Mr. Roberts responded that staff had made it clear that
the City was concerned with the number of high density
projects recently approved and constructed.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmembers Jackson, Benson, and Wilson each stated
they were concerned with the high density and two-story
configuration.
Upon question by Councilmember Jackson, Mr. Erwin res-
ponded that if the Council denied the appeal without
prejudice, the developer could return within a year for
approval with a revised project; otherwise, he could not
refile for a year.
Councilman Wilson moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 85-135 denying C/Z 85-10 and PP 85-31 without prejudice.
Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AN 18 MONTH TIME EXTENSION FOR A
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP, DEVELOPMENT PLAN AND PRELIMINARY
DESIGN REVIEW CASE FOR 156 RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM UNITS
ON 34 ACRES iN THE PR-5 S.P. ZONE AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER
OF HOVLEY LANE AND COOK STREET (CIRCLE Z INC./J.M. PETERS
CO., AND "ORSE CONSULTING GROUP, APPLICANTS). CASE NO.
TT 16133, DP 04-80, AND 204 MF
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and asked for
staff's report.
Mr. Smith reviewed the staff report in detail, noting
that the applicant had recently gone to the Public Works
Department to finalize the first phase of the project.
He added that although the Planning Commission recommended
denial of this request for an 18-month time extension,
staff recommended it be granted.
Mr. Erwin reminded the Council that if a request for
extension of time is filed before the time runs out, the
applicant can prepare, submit, and process a final map on
a portion of the project. He stated that the first
action before the Council was the appeal, while the
second action would be approval of the final tract map
for the first phase.
Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this request.
MR. MICHAEL ZAPARA, Circle Z. Inc., 73-700 Highway 111,
Palm Desert, stated that he had received a commitment
from a lender for funding and had, therefore, requested
approval of the final tract map for Tract 16133-1.
Upon question by Councilman Wilson, Mr. Zapara responded
that he had just become involved with the project a year
earlier and did not know the reasons for the delay.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this request, and
none was offered. He declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Jackson stated she felt the reasons for the
delay were obviously due to the high interest rates from
1 980- 1 983 , which would make funding of this type of
project very difficult. She also felt that it would be
unfair to deny the developer the extension of time
because of conditions beyond his control.
Councilmember Jackson moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 85-136, approving the 18-month extension of time. Motion
was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Councilmember Jackson moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 85-137, approving the final subdivision map of Tract
16133-1 and the agreement relating thereto. Motion was seconded by
Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
C. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO OFFICE PROFESSIONAL STAN-
DARDS RELATIVE TO BUILDING HEIGHT, COVERAGE AND SETBACKS.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and asked for
staff's report.
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report in detail and offered
to answer any questions.
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
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Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this amendment.
MR. RICK HOLDEN, 44-615 Santa Margarita, asked how the
building heights are measured and felt they should be
measured from the existing pad and not the curb.
Mr. Folkers responded that he felt this was something
which should be reviewed more in-depth by the Public
Works Department and Planning Department.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this amendment.
MR. CHARLES MARTIN, 73-725 El Paseo, stated he felt the
amendment was too restrictive and that the Planning
Commission and Architectural Review Commission could
control building heights, coverage and setbacks without
these restrictions. He added that he felt the ordinance
should be thoroughly reviewed.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Jackson stated she was opposed to adopting
an ordinance such as this without further study by staff
and the Planning Commission.
Councilmember Benson stated she was in favor of the
passage of this ordinance but was concerned with all
O.P. zoning.
Councilmember Benson moved to waive further reading and pass
Ordinance No. 449 to second reading and direct staff to clarify Section
D of Exhibit "A" relative to measuring building heights. Motion was
seconded by Snyder and carried by a 4-1 vote of the Council, with
Councilmember Jackson voting NO.
D. REQUEST FOR A CHANGE OF ZONE FROM R-2 S.P. TO O.P. S.P.
(OFFICE PROFESSIONAL, SCENIC PRESERVATION OVERLAY) FOR 9
LOTS ON THE WEST SIDE OF MONTEREY AVENUE SOUTH OF FRED
WARING DRIVE. (Continued from the meetings of September
12, 1985, October 10, 1985. and December 12, 1985).
Mayor Kelly noted that this was a continued public hearing and
asked for staff's report.
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report in detail and offered
to answer any questions. He added that the Planning
Commission had recommended that a policy be added to the
Palma Village Specific Plan requiring at least a 45 foot
setback in this area.
Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this request.
MR. CHARLES MARTIN, 73--725 El Paseo, spoke on behalf of
his client, Art Moss. He felt Mr. Moss would want
show the Council how the plan would work.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this request, and
none was offered. He declared the public hearing closed.
Mr. Erwin advised the Council that the purpose of this
public hearing was to consider a change of zone. However.
the Council might also wish to deal with the second
recommendation of the Planning Commission relative to the
45 foot setback requirement.
11
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ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and pass
Ordinance No. 431 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Benson and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Councilman Snyder moved to refer the matter of the 45 foot
---track requirement to the Planning Commission for additional study and
recommendation to the Council. Motion was seconded by Jackson and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CHANGES OF ZONE IMPLEMENTING THE
PALMA VILLAGE SPECIFIC PLAN FROM R-3 (4), ONE UNIT PER
4,000 SQUARE FEET AND R-1 TO A DUAL DESIGNATION OF R-3,
ONE UNIT PER 2,500 SQUARE FEET AND OP, OFFICE PROFESSIONAL
FOR THE FIRST TWO LOTS ON THE NORTH SIDE OF ALESSANDRO
DRIVE BETWEEN SAN CARLOS AND PORTOLA AVENUE AND A CHANGE
FROM R-1 TO R-2 FOR THE TRIANGULAR BLOCK BOUNDED BY
PORTOLA AVENUE AND SAN JACINTO AVENUE.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and asked for
staff's report.
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report in detail, noting
that a petition had been received from property owners
and residents in the area opposing the entire proposal.
Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this request.
MR. ROBERT EMPKIE, 74-704 Peppertree, stated he would
like to see the triangular block of land rezoned R-2 and
developed so that it does not stay vacant.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this request. The
following people were opposed to the changes of zone because
of parking problems and traffic congestion:
MR. ERIC BALSER, 44-750 San Pascual, Palm Desert
MS. LOUISE KRAUSE, 44-630 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert
MS. BARBARA HAYWORTH, 73-691 DeAnza Way, Palm Desert
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Jackson stated she felt the Council had no
alternative but to accept the Palma Village Specific Plan
and implement these changes.
Councilmember Benson stated that she would prefer leaving
the zoning as it currently is and that it was not expected
that everything would happen overnight when the Palma
Village Specific Plan was approved.
Councilman Snyder suggested that this be considered on an
individual property basis rather than taking the entire
area.
Mr. Drell responded that the City had previously been
criticized because zoning was not changed until proposed
projects were brought in.
Councilman Wilson stated he agreed with comments of the
other Councilmembers. He added that he had voted against
the Palma Village Specific Plan because of the impact on
people who are already in that area. He also stated that
he would like to see something done to encourage more
development but not destroy the surrounding area.
12
MINUTES
ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19. 1985
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Mayor Kelly stated that he had been in favor of the Palma
Village Specific Plan in concept, but it did not mean
that he was in favor of all parts of it. He added that
plans were under way for the entire core area of Highway
III and he felt this should wait until those plans were
completed so that property owners and residents in the
area would not be affected.
Councilmember Benson moved to deny the changes of zone and
Ordinance No. 450 and direct staff to come back to the Council with
alternative solutions. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council.
F. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE
PERMITTING TIMESHARE DEVELOPMENTS IN THE PR ZONE AND
ESTABLISHING STANDARDS OF DEVELOPMENT THEREFORE. CASE
NO. ZOA 85-6.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and asked for
staff's report.
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that on
December 12th the Council referred this matter to the
Planning Commission for review, comments, and report back
to the Council. He added that the Planning Commission,
at its December 17th meeting, reversed its previous
recommendation by requesting that timeshares not be
expanded into the PR zone and should only be permitted in
the PC-4 and C-1 zones.
Mayor Kelly invited input in FAVOR of this amendment.
Mr. Keith Anderson, 41-201 Portola, stated that he did
not have an opportunity for rebuttal at the Planning
Commission meeting on December 17th. He added that he
would like to see timeshares not restricted to the PC-4
and C-1 zones.
Mayor Kelly invited input in OPPOSITION to this amendment.
MR. JIM LOBLAND, President -Elect of the Board of Realtors,
spoke on behalf of Don Durant. developer of Lagos Palmas,
which is adjacent to Desert Wolf Lodge. He stated that
they were completely against timeshares.
MRS. RUTH GRISWOLD, 123 La Cierra Drive, Rancho Mirage,
also spoke against any timeshares being permitted.
MR. MELVIN GORDON, 72-944 Joshua Tree, stated he did not
like the possibility of having 52 different people living
next door to him.
MR. PAUL MURPHY, 509 Sandpiper, stated he felt the only
way the Council could keep unethical people out of Palm
Desert would be to do spot zoning.
DR. WILLIAM TENNISON, III, 73-318 Juniper, stated he did
not feel that timeshares would contribute to the "Haute
Spot" image of the City and, instead, would detract from
it. He was opposed to timeshares in any residential
areas and felt that strict regulations should be placed
on timeshares in the current zoning.
13
MINUTES
ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DECEMBER 19, 1985
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Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Benson stated she felt the proposed project
was commendable but that the Council must consider the
desires of the community as a whole and she would,
therefore, have to vote against it.
Councilmember Jackson stated she felt it would be best to
have timeshares in residential zones and include the
restrictions in the amendment to the ordinance.
Councilman Wilson stated he felt that this type of
proposed development under the PR-4 zoning was much more
desirable than motel rooms.
Councilman Snyder stated he had mixed emotions about this
type of development and felt the Council should take a
good, long look at timeshares in general.
Mayor Kelly agreed with Councilman Snyder and stated he
did not feel that timeshares would enhance the community.
Councilmember Benson moved to deny timeshares in the PR zone.
Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 3-2 vote of the Council,
with Councilmembers Jackson and Wilson voting NO.
Councilmember Wilson moved to amend Ordinance No. 441 amending
the zoning ordinance to establish standards of development for timeshare
developments in the PC-4 and commercial zones and approving the filing
of a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact. Motion was seconded
by Jackson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XVI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
None
XV. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. FRINGE -TOED LIZARD HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN
Mr. Altman reported that the City of Palm Desert was
the last city to sign this agreement and that there
had been no major changes since the Council last
considered the plan.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize
the Mayor to execute the Implementation Agreement for the Fringe -Toed
Lizard Habitat Conservation Plan. Motion was seconded by Jackson and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
2. Mr. Altman requested a Closed Session following the
Redevelopment Agency Meeting under Government Code
Section 54956.8(a) for the purpose of discussing
pending litigation (Beaumont Concrete vs. City of
Palm Desert) and property acquisition.
8. CITY ATTORNEY
None
14
MINUTES
ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
1. ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
Councilman Wilson stated he felt the Council should
honor the two members of the Architectural Review
Commission whose terms had recently expired.
Mr. Altman responded that this would be done at the
meeting of January 9, 1986.
2. NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES SEMINAR
Councilmember Benson reported that she had just
received a bulletin from the National League of
Cities regarding a seminar on responsibilities of
elected officials which would be held in Los Angeles
on February loth. She added that she would like to
attend this seminar.
3. VISITORS FROM SISTER CITY
Mayor Kelly stated that a group of dancers and their
chaperones would be arriving after Christmas from
our Sister City, Gisborne, New Zealand. He added
that they would be in Palm Desert from December 28
through January 4 and that they would be staying
with various people in the community.
4. Mayor Kelly asked that everyone note the Future
Meetings listed on the Agenda.
XVI. ADJOURNMENT
Councilman Wilson moved to adjourn the City Council meeting at
11:40 p.m. to Closed Session under Government Code Section 54956.8(a)
for the purpose of discussion pending litigation (Beaumont Concrete vs.
City of Palm Desert) and property acquisition; said Closed Session to
immediately follow the Redevelopment Agency meeting. Motion was seconded
by Jackson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Mayor Kelly reconvened the meeting at 12:30 a.m. and announced
the following action:
Councilman Snyder moved to direct staff to retain an engi-
neering firm to prepare the necessary documents for property acquisition
for the Palm Desert High School and direct the City Attorney to begin any
eminent domain proceedings necessary. Motion was seconded by Jackson
and carried by unanimous vote.
Councilmember Wilson moved to authorize staff to investigate
the extent of the problems which exist at the Palm Desert Town Center
1/ Fire Station and to take corrective action. Motion was seconded by
Benson and carried by unanimous vote.
15
MINUTES
ADJOURNED/REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 19, 1985
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . * . . . . . .
Upon motion by Jackson, second by Wilson, and unanimous vote
of the Council, Mayor Kelly adjourned the meeting at 1 2 : 35 a.m. to 4 : 00
P.M. on January 9, 1986.
ATTEST:
MARY P. FRIER, DEPUTY Lt I TY CLERK
CITY OF PA DESERT, CALIFORNIA
RICH
. KELLY, MAYOR
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