HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987-02-26MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 26, 1987
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Kelly convened the meeting at 4:00 p.m.
11. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman S. Roy Wilson
11!. INVOCATION - Mayor Richard S. Kelly
IV. ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Pro-Tem Jean M. Benson
Councilman Buford Crites
Councilman Walter S. Snyder
Councilman S. Roy Wilson
Mayor Richard S. Kelly
Also Present:
Bruce A. Altman, City Manager
Carlos L. Ortega, Assistant City Manager
Doug Phillips, Deputy City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, City Clerk/Public Information Officer
Mary P. Frazier, Deputy City Clerk
Ramon A. Diaz, Director of Community Services
Richard J. Folkers, Director of Public Works
Kirby J. Warner, Director of General Services
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of February
12, 1987.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrants
Dated 1/30/87 and 1/30/87.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. APPLICATION.FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Friends of
the Cultural Center, 73-000 Fred Waring Drive, Palm
Desert, for the Bob Hope Cultural Center.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. CONSIDERATION OF SUPPORT of Senate B111 No. 5 on
Pornography.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, support Senate Bill No. 5 and
instruct the City Clerk to so notify the
Committee for Citizens Leading Effective
Action Now.
E. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Charles L. Martin from the
Architectural Review Commission.
Rec: Receive and accept with regrets.
F. MINUTES of the Building Board of Appeals & Condemnation
Meeting of January 8, 1987.
Rec: Receive and file.
G. CONSIDERATION OF A REOUEST by Palm Desert Property
Owners' Association Regarding Reduced Speeds on Highway
74.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, refer to staff with direction
to contact Caltrans for possible course of
action.
H. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Renewal of Lease for the
Palm Desert Branch Library (Contract 00-084-1).
ReC:
By Minute Motion, approve the renewal and
authorize the Mayor to execute same.
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1. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. 00-146 for Haystack
Bikepath.
Rec: By Minute Motion, award the Contract No. 00-146
to the lowest responsible bidder.
Note: A new staff report was distributed to the City
Council prior to the meeting recommending award
of the contract to Allred a Kyser, the lowest
responsible bidder, in the amount of $79,068.00.
J. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. 00-105,
Cross Gutter 8 Curb and Gutter Repair Program.
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work and authorize
the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
K. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT N0. 00-176 for the Silver
Spur Storm Drain Project.
Rec: By Minute Motion:
1)
Award Contract No. 00-176 to Shadow Hills
Construction Co., inc., in the amount of
$85,383 and authorize a 157. contingency
reserve in the amount of $12,807.45; and
2) Appropriate $98,190.45 from the Unallocated
Drainage Fund Reserve.
L. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT NO. 00-193, Street Sweeper
Contract.
Rec: By Minute Motion:
1)
Award Contract No. 00-193 to Haaker
Equipment Company In the amount of
$95,945.90 for the purchase of a cab -over
vacuum/air street sweeper with broom
assist; and
2) Appropriate $95,950.00 from the General
Fund.
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M. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK ON CONTRACT NO. 00-098,
Street Repair Program.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, accept the work for Contract
No. 00-098 as complete and authorize the City
Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
Councilmember Benson asked that Item G be removed from the
Consent Calendar for consideration under Section IX. Consent
Items Held Over. Councilman Wilson asked that Item D also be
removed, and Mr. Altman asked that Item M be removed.
Upon motion by Crites, second by Snyder, and unanimous vote of
the City Council, the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Items 0,
G, and M. was approved as presented.
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
None
VII. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 87-14 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, SUPPORTING
FEDERAL APPROPRIATION FOR A FLOOD WARNING SYSTEM.
Mr. Altman reported that a letter had been received from
Mr. Tom Levy of the Coachella Valley Water District
requesting that the City Council adopt a resolution
relative to a flood warning system along the Whitewater
River Basin. He said this was something which would
benefit the City and the whole area and recommended
adoption of the resolution.
Upon motion by Crites, second by Benson, Resolution No. 87-14
was adopted by unanimous vote of the Council.
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VIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 498 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER
10.24 OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT RELATING TO
ABANDONED VEHICLES.
Mr. Altman stated there was a memo in the packets from
the Code Compliance Director and recommended passing this
ordinance to second reading.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Wilson, and unanimous vote of
the Council, Ordinance No. 498 was passed to second reading.
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 496 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER
5.86.020(M) AND 5.86.090(1) OF THE CODE OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT RELATING TO MASSAGE ESTABLISHMENT, BATHHOUSE,
ESCORT BUREAU, AND INTRODUCTORY SERVICE. (Continued from
the meeting of February 12, 1987.)
Mr. Altman reported that this ordinance was still in the
process of being revised and recommended It be continued
to the meeting of March 12, 1987.
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Snyder, and unanimous vote of
the Council, Ordinance No. 496 was continued to the meeting of March 12,
1987.
IX. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
0. CONSIDERATION OF SUPPORT of Senate Bi11 No. 5 on
Pornography.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, support Senate B111 No. 5 and
instruct the City Clerk to so notify the
Committee for Citizens Leading Effective Action
Now.
Councilman Wilson asked for clarification of the changes
to the current Senate Bill No. 5.
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Mr. Phillips stated it was his understanding that this
bill would revise certain definitions of obscene or
harmful matter so they comply with the Supreme Court
decision. He added that it reflected a more conservative
attitude of the courts and that the City Attorney had not
found any problems with the changes.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion. support Senate
Bill No. 5 and instruct the City Clerk to so notify the Committee for
Citizens Leading Effective Action Now. Motion was seconded by Benson
and carried by a 3-0-2 vote of the Council, with Councilmen Wilson and
Crites ABSTAINING.
G. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST by Palm Desert Property
Owners' Association Regarding Reduced Speeds on Highway
74.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, refer to staff with direction
to contact Caltrans for possible course of
action.
Counc i l member Benson asked if staff was going to do any
kind of study of Highway 74 so that a response could be
made to Palm Desert Property Owners' Association.
Mr. Altman recommended that this be referred to staff
to perform the appropriate surveys.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, refer to
staff with direction to contact Caltrans for possible course of action.
Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the City
Council.
M. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK ON CONTRACT NO. 00-098,
Street Repair Program.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, accept the work for Contract
No. 00-098 as complete and authorize the City
Clerk to file a Notice of Completion.
Mr. Folkers asked that this item be continued for two
weeks due to a conflict in a billing situation.
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Upon motion by Snyder, second by Benson, this item was
continued to the meeting of March 12, 1987, by unanimous vote of the
City Council.
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. SYNOPSIS OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY AREA TRANSPORTATION
STUDY.
Mr. Folkers reviewed the staff report and study, noting
that since the traffic counts were done in 1984, traffic
had increased substantially. He offered to answer
questions.
Councilman Crites asked why the "C" standard had been
used in the study and how the standards were determined.
Mayor Kelly explained that each community could set its
own standards and conduct the study using them. This
committee had set a standard of "C".
No action was required or taken by the City Council.
XI. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. REQUEST BY NOELL ROBINSON FOR CONSIDERATION OF A ZONING
ORDINANCE MODIFICATION TO RESTRICT WALL, BUSH, AND TREE
HEIGHTS AND ALLOWABLE THICKNESS OF BUSHED AREAS.
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report and stated that staff
did not see a need to amend the ordinance.
Councilman Wilson moved to receive and file the report.
Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the City
Council.
B. REPORT ON 20-UNIT CONDO DEVELOPMENT - SAN LUIS REY AND
SHADOW MOUNTAIN & LARREA (SANBORN & RYLEE, APPLICANTS).
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report and offered to answer
any questions.
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Council Questions:
Benson: How many units in R-2 and R-3 per, ;acre? Mr.
Diaz responded that it depended on the number in
parentheses as well as the size of the lots.
Snyder: Was there a density bonus for this project? How
large is the project? Mr. Diaz responded that there was
no density bonus and that there were 20 units.
Council Comments:
Crites: One thing that should not get by again is the
idea of posting public signage on developments to allow
public to know that something is happening. The signs
should be posted for a 14-day period. Mr. Diaz stated
that staff could begin to administratively implement this
type of signage while the policy changes were in process.
Snyder: We need to somehow work the word "compatible"
Into approvals and get staff, Council, and Planning
Commission to look at projects to assure compatibility
with surrounding neighborhood.
Crites: At the time the Planning Commission approved the
project, it met every setback, was within the density and
height limits, was approved by the property owners'
association, and no one came forward to protest. The
Planning Commission had no basis to deny it.
Benson: Agreed that there should be a way to assure
compatibility. The height of this project is not as bad
as the density.
Kelly: The project is too close to the road. it was
approved because of the side yard setbacks; however, they
actually front the street.
Mr. Diaz stated that perhaps staff could look into this
concern as well as the concerns of Mrs. Marian Henderson.
Staff could do a study to determine how a single family
residential feeling could be achieved with setbacks in a
multiple residential density area. He added that the
report could be ready in four to six weeks. Upon question
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by Councilmember Benson, he said the two projects
currently going to the Planning Commission would be
continued until the study was completed.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, direct staff to
conduct a study and recommend changes in the City's code required to
assure compatibility of new development with existing neighborhoods.
Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
Mayor Kelly invited comments from Mrs. Henderson.
MRS. MARIAN HENDERSON, 73-597 Pinyon Street, Palm Desert,
stated she felt the issue of compatibility had been a
part of the City's code since the beginning and that if
a structure was being built that was completely opposite
from what was already there, it was not allowed.
She felt that the development at San Luis Rey and Shadow
Mountain 8 Larrea should have only one exit, and that
should be onto Shadow Mountain, not Larrea. She stated
she had looked at the original plans, which showed the
development to have a sidewalk and that it was supposed to
be flat. She also thought the trees were to start at
ground level; now they are on a large bank, which makes
the project look even larger. She objected to the
whiteness of the building and felt something should be
done to make it darker. She also objected to what looked
like fireplaces. She said they were actually only
exhausts for the air conditioners, and she asked why they
were permitted and why there were so many of them.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Direct
staff to look into the concerns expressed by Mrs. Henderson relative to
sidewalks, the exits from the project, and the color of the buildings;
and 2) Direct staff to include in its report and recommendation the
posting of signs for a 14-day period in addition to mailing of notices.
Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
Mr. Diaz stated that staff would immediately begin the
practice of posting signs for a 14-day period in addition
to mailing notices.
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XII. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF PROGRAM TO IMPLEMENT "ART IN
PUBLIC PLACES" PROGRAM.
Mr. Altman reported that the Civic Arts Committee had
been working on this program since early February and
that both City Clerk Sheila Gilligan and Communications
Intern Sandy Vinocur had done an outstanding job in
Putting this together. He said that Civic Arts Committee
Chairman Alex Yaron could not attend the Council meeting
and that staff would answer any questions the Council
might have.
Upon question by Councilman Crites, Ms. Vinocur stated
that the first seven pages were the actual program and
that there was an addendum which listed items to be
considered in the future.
Upon question by Councilman Wilson, Mr. Diaz stated that
the Art in Public Places fees were already being collected
from developers. Mr. Warner added that the City currently
had In excess of $60,000 in these fees.
Councilman Wilson asked whether the Committee had
considered the entrance to the City as a location for
some art. He said that once the program is approved, the
City should consider making some artistic statement.
Mrs. Gilligan stated that the Committee wanted to get the
program implemented and chose an outdoor sculpture for the
Civic Center but that it might be difficult to place until
the Civic Center Master Plan was completed. She added
that she would go back to the Committee and ask it to
consider City entrances a priority.
Councllmember Benson suggested that when considering a
location for art, it should be in a place where people
will be able to see it.
Councilman Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the
Program and Instruct the City Clerk to so advise the Civic Arts
Committee. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote
of the Council.
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B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT TO CONTRACT WITH JOHN
OUTCAULT FOR ARCHITECTURAL SERVICES FOR CIVIC CENTER
MODIFICATIONS (CONTRACT NO. 00-181-1).
Mr. Altman reviewed the staff report, noting that the
Civic Center Design Committee consisted of Councllmembers
Snyder and Benson, himself, Mr. Ortega, Mrs. Gilligan,
Mr. Conlon, and Mr. Diaz.
Council Questions:
Crites: Aside from acoustical changes for the Council
Chamber, what kind of modifications were being proposed?
Councilman Snyder reviewed the proposed changes, noting
that the walls around the staff table and in front of the
Council seating area would be removed and made into a
u-shaped structure. People would still be able to see the
Council, and there would be better eye contact with staff.
How much money are we talking about? Somewhere around
$80,000.
Council Comments:
Kelly: Coachella Valley Television used moveable
partitions, and we should also consider using them.
Councilman Snyder stated that the Committee had asked Mr.
Outcault to look into this.
Wilson: Stated he had voted against adding a conference
room next to the employees' lounge and would vote against
this also. Felt there was a lot of room for expansion
before spending a lot of money on this type of remodeling.
The Chamber works as it Is now and is much better that
what we used to have. Did not think it was necessary to
spend another $80,000 to make it more comfortable.
Crites: Concerned with need to have facility for guests
and for functions such as receptions. Not sure it is
necessary to have an architect show us how to use
Partitions. Would like to vote yes on adding a conference
room next to the Council offices, but did not feel it was
necessary to spend money to redo the Chamber.
Snyder: Did not feel that what was proposed was for
convenience and comfort but rather a better way for the
City to conduct business with the people. Part of this
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money would be to fix the acoustical problems, and these
costs are becoming higher as time goes on.
Wilson: Stated he felt we had a very effective city, did
our business well, and that the facilities did not hinder
this.
Keily: Stated that he could not hear what was going on
when he sat in the audience at Planning Commission
meetings. He said that although the Council thinks it is
conducting business well, it may not be if people cannot
hear.
Mr. Altman'stated he believed the estimate for the
Chamber remodeling was actually $50,000 to $60,000 but
that the Council was not being asked to approve the
remodeling at this time. Instead, the amendment to the
agreement would be for the architect to perform a design
study.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the
amendment to Contract No. 00-181-1 with John Outcault, AIA, in the
amount of $5,600.00 and appropriate the funds from the Civic Center/New
Construction Tax Account. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by
a 4-1 vote of the Council, with Councilman Wilson voting NO.
XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Sunterra Project
At the request of the City Manager, Mr. Diaz gave a
brief summary of his presentation before the Indian
Wells City Council relative to the Sunterra project.
He stated that he had expressed the City's concerns
in terms of the Environmental Impact Report and the
areas of housing and traffic impacts but that no
comments were made by him relative to whether the
City was in favor of or against the project itself.
He said no further action should be taken by Palm
Desert until after Indian Wells responds to the
comments made at the meeting. If the City did not
feel that the response was adequate, any necessary
action would be taken at that time.
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Mayor Kelly stated that he had spoken with someone
who attended the meeting and felt that Mr. Diaz had
done a nice Job with this presentation.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
None
C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
City Council Requests for Action:
I. Discussion of Possible Meeting with Desert
Sands Unified School District's Board to
Discuss School Needs in the North Sphere and
Future City Recreational Needs that might be
Jointly Shared (Councilman Roy Wilson).
Councilman Wilson stated that he would like the
Council to meet with the School District to
discuss the City's school needs as the North
Sphere area is developed. He said that in
looking at the plans for the Civic Center, he
saw several areas which might be duplicated by
the High School, such as the swimming pool and
aquatics complex. He felt it might be possible
to build only one for use by both and proposed
that staff set up a joint dinner meeting
between the City Council and the Desert Sands
Unified School District Board to discuss these
items.
Mr. Altman stated that this meeting would be
set up following the joint City Council/Planning
Commission meeting, probably within 30 to 45
days.
2. Consideration of Policy for Buildings Approved
Adjacent to Scenic Corridors (Mayor Pro-Tem
Jean Benson).
Councilmember Benson asked that this be
considered when staff looks at the issue of
compatibility of new developments with adjacent
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buildings (discussed under Continued Business
Item B). She said she was concerned with
another development with garages being built
facing Highway 74, which Is one of the scenic
corridors.
Mr. Diaz stated that staff would address this
issue as part of the study.
o City Council Committee Reports:
1. Councilmember Jean Benson
Councllmember Benson reported that she had
attended the Historical Society meeting and
that they were having trouble with the State in
getting a museum status so that the City could
proceed with helping them in the restoration of
their building. She stated that she had
written a letter to the State Board of Equaliza-
tion with a copy to Senator Presley asking for
his assistance.
2. Councilman Walter Snyder
Councilman Snyder reported that all the member
cities of CVAG except two had indicated they
would support the lawsuit against the tire
burning facility, and the City Councils In
those two cities would be considering this
matter shortly. He stated that another stop
order had been issued due to a health require-
ment. He added that the other attorneys had
succeeded in having the judge changed but had
not succeeded in the request for change of
venue. He said there was still a 50/50 chance
of winning the case, compared with an 80/20
chance when the case started.
Councilman Snyder stated that he had recently
spoken with someone who had a problem with the
curb and gutter assessment program. The matter
was expeditiously taken care of and he received
all of the information he needed to answer the
question. He said this was a typical reaction
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of our staff and complimented staff for doing
such a good Job.
3. Mayor Dick Kelly
Mayor Kelly stated that he had been appointed
to the Transportation Policy Committee for
CalCog, which was a State organization similar
to CVAG. He said he was CVAG's representative
and would be attending the first meeting on
April 7th.
Mayor Kelly reported that he had appeared
earlier that day at the Eastern Area Planning
Council meeting at the request of the City of
Rancho Mirage in opposition to what was first
reported as a McDonald's sign at the inter-
section of Ramon and Varner Roads. He said it
turned out that this was a truck stop complex
and that a sign had been approved at 60 feet,
which was 15 feet over the ordinance. He added
that the City of Rancho Mirage would be
considering appealing that decision and would
notify him when they did. He said they would
probably be asking Palm Desert to join with them
in opposing this sign and that he would be
bringing this back at a later time.
Mayor Kelly stated that he had represented the
City in welcoming the Ohio Beer and Wine
Distributors convention at the Marriott Desert
Springs the previous evening. He said he had
found tt interesting that a lot of the ladies at
the reception had expressed interest in El
Paseo, which seems to have a very high image
across the country.
XIV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
None
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Benson, and unanimous vote of
the Council, Mayor Kelly adjourned the meeting for dinner at 5:50 p.m.
The meeting was reconvened at 7:00 p.m.
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XV. COMPLETION OF ITEMS HELD OVER FROM 4:00 P.M. SESSION
None
XVI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - C
None
XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION by Mr. Jim Condon of the Community Counseling
Center, Inc., on the Desert Aids Project.
Mr. Jim Condon presented information to the City Council
and stated that this was a subject of paramount importance
and that the Desert Aids Project in particular was one
everyone needed to be more aware of and more supportive
of. He said they would be expanding their services and
facilities and needed financial assistance. He said they
were not a research organization; their principle concern
was for people who were AIDS victims and people close to
them, with counseling as their main function. He asked
for the Counci l's support and stated he did not feel it
would set a precedent for other charities to come in and
request funding because this was a local organization
dedicated to serving the local population. He added that
they had contracted with the City of Cathedral City's
Community Services Department for a given number of hours
of counseling services and blood testing in exchange for a
$5,000 contribution. He offered to answer questions.
Mr. Altman stated that he would not recommend contributing
to the project. He said this was in the area of general
welfare, and these programs have traditionally been the
responsibility of State, Federal, and County governments
and that we do not have specific revenue sources to deal
with them. He added that Council could refer the request
to the Committee for Charitable Contributions which
consisted of Councilmembers Benson and Wilson, himself,
and the Finance Director.
Councilman Crites stated that he would find the City to
be remiss if the Council did not give this request its
full attention. He said he did not think it would set a
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precedent and that if it did, the Council would deal with
it then.
Councilman Wilson stated he understood Mr. Altman's
recommendation but agreed with Councilman Crites that we
are dealing with an epidemic which no one really realizes.
He suggested that staff be directed to look into a way to
provide the funds in exchange for counseling services for
our citizens.
Councilmember Benson agreed with Councilman Crites and
added that she felt the Council had a responsibility for
the health, safety, and welfare of its constituents. She
said that if another agency could come in and prove the
same urgency, the Council would deal with it then. She
said she did not see how $5,000 would hurt the City at
all.
Councilman Crites agreed with Councilman Wilson's sugges-
tion relative to obtaining counseling services in exchange
for the funds so that it would not be just a gift of
public funds.
Councilman Crites moved to direct staff to bring back a
contract for counseling and other related community services In exchange
for funding. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by a 3-2 vote,
with Councilman Snyder and Mayor Kelly voting NO.
8. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF BUFORD
CRITES.
Councilmember Benson stated that seven very qualified
applicants had been interviewed and that It had been very
difficult to make a decision because they were all
community minded people.
Councilmember Benson nominated Ms. 'Faith Ladlow for the
position of Planning Commissioner. The nomination was seconded
by Councilman Crites.
Councilman Wilson nominated Mr. Sabby Jonathan. The nomination
was seconded by Mayor Kelly.
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Councilman Wilson asked that the vote be by secret
ballot. Mr. Phillips directed the City Clerk to distri-
bute slips of paper to the Council. He asked the Council -
members to mark their votes and return them to the City
Clerk for counting.
With Councfl concurrence, this item was continued until the
end of the meeting so that Agency Counsel could review the Municipal Code
relative to the number of affirmative votes required to appoint a
Planning Commissioner.
C. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW
COMMISSION TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION
OF CHARLES L. MARTIN.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, continue this
item until such time as staff prepares a report regarding the current
members of the Architectural Review Commission, their terms, and the
number of members who are architects. Motion was seconded by Snyder and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
D. REQUEST FOR APPOINTMENT OF HENRY HOYLE AND SHARON TUVERSON
TO THE EL PASEO BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT AREA BOARD.
Councilman Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion, ratify the
December election results by appointing Henry Hoyle and Sharon Tuverson
to the El Paseo Business improvement Area Board. Motion was seconded by
Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND A PRECISE PLAN OF
DESIGN TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A GAS STATION AS PART OF
THE RESIDENCE INN PROJECT ON 10 ACRES IN THE PC (4), S.P.
AND PR (5), N S.P. AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF HIGHWAY 111
AND DEEP CANYON ROAD. THOMAS MILLER AND SUNCASTLE REAL
ESTATE, APPLICANTS. (Continued from the Meetings of
January 8 and February 12, 1987.)
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report, noting that Council
conditions had been added to page 8 of the resolution.
18
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
. . . . . . . . * . . . . . . . . * * * . * . * .
Council Comments/Questions:
Crites: How can the Council be assured that snack type
foods are sold only in vending machines. Would also like
to see a condition added requiring some kind of water
feature similar to the hotel next door.
Mr. Diaz stated that Council Condition #I could be changed
to read "A maximum of three vending machines will exist on
site inside the mobile mart selling snack type foods and
soft drinks, and all such products shall be sold only in
vending machines". As far as the water feature, he
believed it was a condition placed on the Residence Inn.
Wilson: Gas station at the other end of the City sells
those types of items on shelves. If we allow it in one
location, perhaps we are being too restrictive in not
allowing it in another site.
Benson: Would like a condition added that the service
station and mobile mart could not be started until the
inn was well under construction.
Mayor Kelly noted that this was a continued public hearing and
invited testimony in FAVOR of this project.
MR. JIM HUNTSBERRY, 135 Privateer, Marina del Rey, stated
he and his firm had worked with City staff on the
architecture and layout and had tried to shield the
facility as best they could. He reviewed his letter
dated February 18, 1987 (on file and of record in the
City Clerk's Office) and stated they would be willing to
eliminate the car wash. He felt the hours of operation
were a little harsh, especially since the Marriott and
Grand Champions were already .open and the Bob Hope
Cultural Center would open soon, and this would bring in
a lot of late night people. He asked that they be
allowed to operate from 6:00 a.m. to Midnight.
Crites: How do gas stations which do not sell these
Items survive?
Mr. Huntsberry stated that this was a self service
station which does not have a lube bay, and of the
19
MINUTES
REGULAR. PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
other gas stations do have lube bays which bring In
additional income.
MR. SANDY BAUM, 45-800 Deep Canyon Road, Palm Desert,
asked that he be allowed to speak in rebuttal and added
that the plans did show a water feature at the entrance
to the project.
MR. VIC EFFINGER, 44-539 Sorrento Ct., Palm Desert,
stated he felt this project would be a tremendous Improve-
ment to that area and one of the nicer stations in our
community. He did not see a problem in the selling of
the snack type items.
Wi I son: Do you have any objections to the hours of
operation?
Mr. Effinger stated he did not feel one or two hours in
the morning or evening would make a tremendous difference.
MR. VICTOR HASLER, 44-179 Elba Ct., Palm Desert, spoke as
a member of the Board of Directors for Hidden Palms
Homeowners' Association, and stated that the Board felt
this was the best project it had seen for that corner.
He added that the Board was more concerned with late hours
of operation than early hours.
Wilson: What do you consider as "late"?
Mr. Hasler stated that he felt 11:00 p.m. and Midnight
were late. However, from the Board's standpoint, 6:00
a.m. was not something to be concerned about. There is
already a lot of traffic at that time of day, and the gas
station would not add or detract from that.
Mayor Kelly invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this project.
MS. BEVERLY SCHAEFFER, 44-615 Monaco Circle, Palm Desert,
stated she did not feel a gas station and car wash at
that corner would help real estate values. She was also
concerned that a lot of residents at Hidden Palms were
not aware of this project because they did not live
within 300 feet of it. She submitted a petition signed
by some of the homeowners in opposition to the project
(on file and of record in the City Clerk's office).
20
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • ' • • • • • • • •
MR. GARY GOUDSWAARD, 44-755 Deep Canyon, Palm Desert,
opposed the access from the project onto Deep Canyon
because he felt it would create additional traffic. He
did not understand why the service station would need the
additional access when it was not needed by the hotels.
MR. BRUCE PETTINGILL, 44-805 Deep Canyon, Palm Desert,
opposed the project due to the increased traffic it would
generate, the late hours of operation, the trash container
at Deep Canyon being too high. He said he would also
like to see the mobile mart eliminated.
Mayor Kelly invited REBUTTAL.
MR. SANDY BAUM, 45-800 Deep Canyon, stated that the
access at the north end of the site was requested by the
Public Works Department as a necessary item and was not
on the original plans. He added that the traffic was so
intense on Deep Canyon at this time due to the work being
done on the Portola Storm Drain project. He said he did
not understand how Ms. Schaeffer would be affected by a
gas station which was more than 600 feet away from her
property.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Wilson: Questioned the north entrance from the project
onto Deep Canyon. Mr. Folkers stated the idea was to
provide access for hotel guests to come and go without
adding to the gas station traffic at Deep Canyon and
Alessandro.
Crites: Has anything been done about the trash container?
Mr. Baum stated that City ordinance requires enclosures
around trash containers and that it had been moved.
Wilson: Concerned more about final design of the gas
station and aesthetic appearance than the snacks to be
sold. Hoped there would be some effort to explore the
possibility of making the project look a little less
like a gas station. In favor of approving the sale of
snacks as outlined in the February 18th letter rather
than restricting it to vending machines only. Stated he
felt 8:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. was unreasonable and would
21
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
like to see hours of operation as 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Mr. Diaz stated that Council would have a chance to review
the final design.
Crites: Comfortable with hours suggested by Wilson. If
sale of convenience foods were allowed, felt Council
should address concerns about not having any special
advertising or promotion on the food products and not
allowing outside display of products.
Snyder: Happy about the car wash being removed. Still
concerned with mobile mart, since there are many in town
already. Did not feel service station would create
additional noise and had no problem with hours of
operation suggested by Councilman Wilson.
Benson: Agreed that it should be open at 6:00 a.m. to
service people in the hotels. However, still concerned
with the mobile mart and did not feel it needed to be
there. Agreed with Councilman Wilson about the facility
not being conspicuous from the Highway.
Kelly: Concerned with rear entrance because of security.
Would like to see it closed if there was no problem with
the fire ordinance. Agreed with the 6:00 a.m. to 1 1 :00
p.m. operation hours. Felt this was an opportunity to do
something innovative and different from what has been
done in the Coachella Valley by having a gas station which
does not look like a gas station.
Mr. Diaz stated that a breakaway fire gate could be put at
the rear entrance for access by fire trucks and could be
opened at a later date for public access if traffic
warrants it.
Councilman Wilson moved to approve the conditions proposed by
Council relative to hours of operation, vending machines, and conversion
of rear entrance to fire gate. Councilman Crites asked that the motion
be amended to include no outside displays and prohibition of advertising
promotional sales of any food products. Councilman Wilson amended his
motion.
22
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
* •* • •• •* a • •• 0* •• * •• •* • • * * * * • • • • • •
Mr. Diaz requested that staff be directed to prepare a
resolution outlining those conditions so that the
•resolution on the March 12, 1987, agenda would have
the exact wording.
Councilman Wilson withdrew his motion.
Councilman Wilson moved to direct staff to prepare a resolution
which would include the conditions imposed by the City Council. Motion
was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT FROM "PARK" TO "OPEN SPACE" AND FROM A
CURVILINEAR ALIGNMENT OF HOVLEY LANE TO A STRAIGHT
EAST/WEST LINE BETWEEN PORTOLA AVENUE AND COOK STREET, A
NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND A
PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN TO CONSTRUCT A GOLF COURSE PROJECT
AND A MAXIMUM OF 120 RESIDENTIAL UNITS TO BE DEVELOPED AT
A LATER DATE ON 158 ACRES LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF
HOVLEY LANE BETWEEN PORTOLA AVENUE AND COOK STREET. CASE
NOS. PP 87-1 AND GPA 87- 1 . MARR I OTT' S DESERT SPRINGS
DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. (Continued from the meeting of
February 12, 1987.)
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report, noting that the
Council had expressed concerns that the wall from Cook
Street and Hovley Lane east would be solid, with the golf
course below it. He showed artists' renderings of the
wall and bikeway and stated that the minimum dept of the
wa l l would be 20 feet from the curb, and it would match
the existing bikeway and sidewalk along Cook Street at
the present Marriott. He discussed the City Council
conditions on the resolution and stated that the Marriott
Hotel had already paid approximately $400,000 in
signalization fees and that this development would also be
required to pay signalization fees. He said these fees
could be used as their share of the signalization at
Portola/Hovley and Cook/Hovley as soon as those warrants
are met. He stated the applicant had questioned the
drainage fund fees and that a condition of approval was
that a maximum of $4,800 per acre be paid prior to
issuance of the grading permit or bonded for, at the
discretion of the Council.
23
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CiTY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• •• •• •• .• .• .• .• .• .• • • • • • • • • • • • .• • ,• •
r
Mayor Kelly noted that this was a continued public hearing and
invited testimony from the developer.
MR. CHARLES MUELLER, 74-555 Country Club Drive, Paim
Desert, explained the map showing the entire perimeter of
the fence around the project and stated that it involved
the addition of 30 indentations that were not there
Previously. He said a good number of them would be
wrought iron, similar to what was already there. He
reviewed the overall project.
Council Comments/Questions:
Crites: Are all of the indentations view indentations?
Mr. Mueller stated that roughly one-half were.
Why only one-half? The Council had been very explicit
that along Hovley Lane they be provided consistently
throughout.
MR. PAUL GILMER, ASL Engineers, stated that the original
development plan had shown a 20 foot easement for public
pedestrian purposes. The wall would be from 12 to 32
feet away from the curb, and it averages 28 feet away.
He said that not all the indentations were open.
MR. TED ROBINSON, 352 Third Street, Laguna Beach, spoke
as the developer of the golf course. He said there would
be as many openings on this wall as on the other golf
course. He added that he felt golf should be played in
as quiet a place as possible and that people playing golf
In that area would not want to look out at an industrial
area. This situation occurs only in this one area, and
everything else would be the same as on the upper course.
Mr. Mueller added that there would be a lot of landscaping
and would not be a long, solid wall. He said that as far
as the drainage fee, he did not object to the fee itself
but did not want to commit to bonding at $4,800 per acre.
He stated he had a letter dated January 23, 1987, wherein
the Desert Springs Resort fees had been reduced from
$1,123,000 to $800,000. He asked that he be given the
same opportunity to negotiate the fee.
24
MINUTES
4' REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• O • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
Mr. ,Altman stated that the reduction for the Desert
•Springs Resort had been based on a drainage study. Mr.
Folkers added that this would be considered at a later
date.
Mayor Kelly invited input In FAVOR of this project.
MR. CHUCK STRATHER, 41-555 Cook Street, Palm Desert,
stated he had no problem with the type of wall proposed
on Hovley Lane. He added that he was also a golfer and
appreciated the garden setting and did not want to be
looking out at an industrial complex.
Mayor Kelly invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this project,
and none was offered. He declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites stated that his concerns of several
weeks previously had been responded to adequately.
Councilman Snyder stated he felt the design was excellent
and that the project was one which would really add to
our city.
Councilman Snyder moved.to.approve the findings and adopt
Resolution No. 87-16. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council.
C. CONSIDERATION OF A ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT DELETING
CERTAIN COMMERCIAL USES FROM PERMITTED C-1 USES (SECTION
25-28.030) AND INSERTING SAME INTO CONDITIONAL USES OF THE
C-1 SECTION OF MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 25.28.020. CASE
NO. ZOA 86-6.
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report and recommended that
this ordinance be passed to second reading.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open. He invited
testimony.in FAVOR of this amendment, and none was offered.
He invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this amendment, and none
was offered. He declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Wilson moved to waive further reading and pass
rdinance No. 499 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Benson and
3rried by unanimous vote of the Council.
25
iNUTES
EGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 26, 1987
• * • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
D. CONSIDERATION OF REOULST FOR APPROVAL OF MASSAGE
ESTABLISHMENT PERMITS AND A MASSAGIST PERMIT (AIDA GREY
SALON AT DANIEL FOXX, MARRIOTT'S DESERT SPRINGS SPA, AND
JANE BRESLER, APPLICANTS).
Mr. Wayne Ramsey of the Code Compliance Department
reported that all of the applications in this request had
been approved by the Sheriff's Department and recommended
approval.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open. He invited
testimony in FAVOR of this request, and none was offered. He
Invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this request, and none was
offered. He declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the
request and authorize staff to issue permits. Motion was seconded by
Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XiX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - D
None
XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
B. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION
TO FiLL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF BUFORD
CRITES (Continued from Earlier in the Meeting).
Mayor Kelly announced the vote as follows:
3 votes for Sabby Jonathan
2 votes for Faith Ladlow
XX. ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Crites, and unanimous vote of
the Council, Mayor Kelly adjourned the meeting at 9:17 p.m.
ATTEST:
�. ASA.J
MARY P. FI ER, DEPUTY -I TY CLERK
CiTY OF PA DESERT, CALIFORNIA
faa„_
RIC ARD S. KELLY, MAYOR/
26
}