HomeMy WebLinkAbout1987-11-12MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 12, 1987
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
. . . * . . . . * .
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Kelly convened the meeting at 4:00 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Mayor Pro-Tempore Jean M. Benson
III. INVOCATION - Mayor Richard S. Kelly
IV. ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Pro-Tempore Jean M. Benson
Councilman Buford A. Crites
Councilman Walter H. 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
Richard J. Folkers, Director of Public Works
Ramon A. Diaz, Director of Community Services
Kirby J. Warner, Director of General Services
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meetings of September
24, 1987. October 8. 1987 (continued from the meeting of
October 22. 1987) and October 22. 1987.
Rec: Approve as presented.
8. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant
Nos. WR0917. WR1003. WR1006, WR1009. and WR1012.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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C. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Palm Desert
Properties for Embassy Suites Conference Center & Resort,
74-700 Highway 111, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Albert D.
and Emma T. Vargas for El Jacal, 74-155 El Paseo, Palm
Desert.
Rec: Refer to the Department of Community Services
for processing of a Conditional Use Permit.
E. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE.LICENSE by Noise Louis
Scotto for Scotto's Pizza, 72-842 Highway 111, #347, Palm
Desert.
Rec: Refer to the Department of Community Services
for processing of a Conditional Use Permit.
F. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Stanley E.
Rose for Stanley B's, 73-101 Highway 111, Palm Desert.
Rec: Refer to the Department of Community Services
for processing of a Conditional Use Permit.
G. LETTER OF REQUEST from Palm Desert Greens Association for
Repairs Relative to the Frank Sinatra Street Improvements
Adjacent to Palm Desert Greens.
Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation.
H. CLAIM NO. 055 AGAINST THE CITY by General Telephone in the
Amount of $1,681.86.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, deny the Claim and instruct
the City Clerk to advise the Claimant that the
matter has been referred to the contractor,
Colich Construction Co.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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I. REQUEST FOR APPROPRIATION for Equipment Rental.
Rec:
J. REQUEST
Cooperat
Agreement
Rec:
K. REQUEST
By Minute Motion, authorize the transfer of
$50,000 from the Public Works Street Resurfacing
Account (110-4311-3320) to the Public Works
Rental of Construction Equipment (110-4310-
3430).
FOR APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT NO. 00-256, a
ive Agreement and Escrow Account Financing
with CalTrans for the FAU Highway 111 Widening.
By Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the Mayor to
enter into and execute the Cooperative Agreement
with CalTrans, District 08, for the
implementation of the subject project; and 2)
Authorize the Mayor to enter into and execute
the Escrow Security Agreement with CalTrans,
District 08, for the financing arrangements for
the subject project.
FOR APPROVAL of an Amendment to the Disadvantage
Business Enterprise (DBE) Program.
Rec:
Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No.
87-96, amending the Program.
L. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Map for Tract No. 22283-1,
Lowell Wooden and Robert Smith, Applicants.
Rec:
Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No.
87-97, approving Tract No. 22283-1 and the bonds
and agreements relating thereto.
M. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Map for Tract No. 22111.
Blrtcher Mesa View and Michael Smith. Applicant.
Rec:
Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No.
87-98. approving Tract No. 22111 and the bonds
and agreements relating thereto.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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N. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Proposal/Agreement No. 00-257 for
Loss Control Services with M 8 M Protection Consultants.
Rec:
By Minute Motion: 1) Accept the proposal for
services from M 8 M Protection Services in an
amount not to exceed $4.000; and 2) appropriate
$4,000 from the Unobligated General Fund balance
for these services.
0. REOUEST FOR APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS for the Relocation of
Facilities on Fred Waring Drive and San Pablo Avenue.
Rec:
By Minute Motion, authorize the appropriation of
$68,214.65 from the Unallocated Street Fund to
Contract No. (1052) for relocation of facilities
on Fred Waring Drive and San Pablo Avenue by
Southern California Edison in 1985.
P. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to Contract No.
00-136-1, North Sphere Special Studies.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Change Order No. 1 and
appropriate $3,850.
Q. REOUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Advertise and Call for Bids
for the Installation of Traffic Signal at Fred Waring
Drive and Town Center Way (Contract No. 00-258, Project
No. 554-87).
Rec:
By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to
advertise and call for bids for the installation
of a traffic signal at Fred Waring Drive and
Town Center Way.
R. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH COUNTY
OF RIVERSIDE FOR PROJECT AREA N0. 2.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Agreement No. 00-259
and authorize the Mayor to execute same.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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S. RESOLUTION N0. 87-99 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING RESOLUTION
NO. 87-57 BY CHANGING THE SALARY SCHEDULE FOR TEMPORARY
MAINTENEANCE AIDES.
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
Councilmember Benson asked that Item M be removed for separate
discussion under the Consent Items Held Over section of the
Agenda.
Upon motion by Crites, second by Snyder, and unanimous vote of
the Council, the Consent Calendar, with the exception of Item M, was
approved as presented.
NOTE: Item R was reconsidered by the Council. Please see the
Reports and Remarks section of the Agenda for Council
action.
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
MR. CURT DUNHAM, Birtcher-Dunham, asked whether Item M was
going to be discussed by the Council at this meeting. Mrs.
Gilligan stated that it would be discussed under the Consent
Items Held Over section of the Agenda. Mayor Kelly advised Mr.
Dunham that he would be allowed to speak on the item at that
time if he so wished.
VII. RESOLUTIONS
None
VIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
None
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 519 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, REGULATING THE
PARKING OF TRUCKS AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES.
Mr. Altman stated that, since introduction of this
ordinance, the Planning Commission had discussed a related
ordinance and that there were several issues which needed
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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to be discussed by the Council prior to adoption of this
ordinance.
Mr. Diaz reported that issues raised were: 1) The
ordinance would require recreational vehicles (RV's) to be
parked in rear yards. and there were people who could not
meet this requirement; 2) There would be a problem with
owners parking their RV's on their lots for loading,
unloading, etc.; 3) There was a question of where the
complaints were coming from --were there some sections of
the City where this was a problem and other areas where it
was not? He said that it was suggested at the end of the
meeting that perhaps a committee could be put together to
look at these issues as well as some legal issues being
raised by the Good Samaritan organization. He asked that
adoption of this ordinance be continued until the issues
could be reviewed.
Councilman Crites stated that people living on the north
side of the City were the ones with problems in parking
their RV's in their yards due to lack of space, etc. He
said the ordinance also would not even allow visitors the
ability to park their RV's overnight, and he felt this
would not reflect the Council's intent. He complimented
Mr. Allen for putting the ordinance together but felt some
provision should be made whereby permits could be issued
to allow people to park the RV's for loading and
unloading, visiting, etc.
Councilmember Benson stated that a resident of the
Vineyards had protested this ordinance at KaffeeKlatsch
because he did not have a back yard. She said that when
he also protested the fact that the Palm Desert Property
Owners' Association could regulate vehicles on the north
side of the City when north side residents were not even
members of that association. she had explained that the
Property Owners' Association was only supporting the
ordinance.
Councilman Crites suggested encouraging the building of
facilities for the containment of RV's somewhere in the
North Sphere area, especially since Palm Desert seems to
be conducive to these types of vehicles.
Councilman Crites moved to continue this item until staff has a
chance to look into the ideas and philosophies of the Planning Commission
and Recreational Vehicle Subcommittee. Motion died for lackof a second.
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Councilman Snyder stated that he was a member of the
Recreational Vehicle Subcommittee, which felt that this
ordinance should be on the books to "start the ball
rolling", while realizing that it would not solve all of
the problems with RV's.
Mayor Kelly stated that if the City was not going to have
an ordinance to prevent people from parking RV's in their
yards or on the streets, there may as well be RV's parked
all over the community, which would deteriorate property
values for everyone. He said the Committee had worked on
this for a long time, and he felt this solution was the
only one that could be reached, with the exception of some
provision to allow parking for loading and unloading.
Councilman Snyder moved to continue this item to the meeting of
December 10, 1987, to allow staff time to amend the ordinance to provide
the ability for RV owners to obtain permits from the City for guest
Parking, loading, unloading, and cleaning of the RV's. Motion was
seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. ORDINANCE NO. 514 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 27,
GRADING, OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE (Continued from
the meeting of October 22, 1987).
Mr. Altman stated there was a memo in the packets from the
Director of Public Works outlining staff's position and
recommending adoption of the ordinance.
Councilmember Benson suggested that Section 27.28.150 be
amended to read "If a satisfactory agreement cannot be
reached and signed between the lot developer, property
owners, and adjacent neighbors, the decision is
automatically placed on the next City Council agenda for
review." She said she felt this approach would be better
than forming another City committee.
Upon question by Wilson, Mr. Phillips stated he felt this
amendment was a minor one which kept the same intent of
the Council, and the ordinance would, therefore, not
require another reading.
Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt
Ordinance No. 514, amended as stated by Councilmember Benson. Motion was
seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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C. ORDINANCE NO. 520 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND CHANGE OF ZONE
FROM HILLSIDE PLANNED RESIDENTIAL (HPR) TO GENERAL
COMMERCIAL FOR THAT APPROXIMATELY 7,000 SQ. FT. PORTION OF
APN 640-02-003 DIRECTLY ADJACENT TO THE WEST SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 111, EAST OF THE TOE OF SLOPE AND WEST OF THE
PARKVIEW DRIVE/HIGHWAY 111 INTERSECTION. CASE NO: C/Z
87-10.
Mr. Altman stated that this had been introduced at the
last meeting and recommended its adoption.
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Benson, Ordinance No. 520 was
adopted by unanimous vote of the Council.
IX. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
M. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Map for Tract No. 22111,
Birtcher Mesa View and Michael Smith, Applicant.
Councilmember Benson stated she had asked for this item to
be removed from the Consent Calendar because she wanted to
be sure that Mesa View Drive would be widened as part of
this project.
MR. CURT DUNHAM, Developer, stated that the road would be
widened. In addition, the road would also have a center
divider, with landscaping past the Fire Station down to
Portola Avenue.
Councilmember Benson moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 87-98, approving Tract No. 22111 and the bonds and
agreements relating thereto. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried
by unanimous vote of the Council.
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY LOCAL HOTEL AND BUSINESS
ASSOCIATIONS FOR CITY PARTICIPATION IN THE PALM DESERT
TROLLEY.
MR. JAMES DINGMAN, owner of The Inn at Deep Canyon, 74-470
Abronia Trail, addressed the Council and stated that the
ultimate goal of the Palm Desert Trolley was to provide
transportation in the desert for visitors. He reviewed
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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the Sun Trolley proposal, noting that the route would be
confined to the City of Palm Desert and would run from the
Marriott, down Cook Street to El Paseo, then to the Palm
Desert Town Center, and back to the Marriott, with an
approximate one hour route time. He said private
commitments totalled $11,000, and the City's participation
of $10,000 maximum would bring the total to about half of
what was needed to continue the program. He added that
the City's money would not be used unless the program runs
into difficulties.
Councilman Wilson asked whether the cities of Indian Wells
and Rancho Mirage also participate in this program.
Mayor Kelly responded that the plan down the road was to
include all of the cities in the cove communities as well
as to provide transportation to the airport. He said
there were commitments received from both the Marriott and
the Palm Desert Town Center to participate with two
memberships, which were $10,000 commitments up front.
Councilman Crites suggested that the proposal be changed
to indicate that a representative of the Mayor would serve
on the Trolley Committee.
Councilmember Benson moved to approve the proposal and the
City's commitment of $10,000 for the 1987/88 trolley program with the
change suggested by Councilman Crites. Motion was seconded by Crites and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY THE EL PASEO IMPROVEMENT
AREA BOARD FOR EXPANSION OF ITS BOARD FROM SEVEN TO ELEVEN
MEMBERS.
Mr. Altman stated there was a memo in the packets from Mr.
Ortega recommending approval of this request.
Upon question by Councilman Crites as to why this was
being requested, Mr. Ortega responded that the Board felt
it needed more participation at its meetings.
Counciimember Benson stated she felt this would not be too
large a board inasmuch as there were so many businesses on
El Paseo.
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Councilman Wilson moved to waive further reading and pass
Ordinance No. 521 to second reading. amending Section 3.40.070 of the
Palm Desert Municipal Code to expand the Board. Motion was seconded by
Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
C. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
1. Refuse Container Trial Program in the City.
Mr. Altman stated this matter was put on the Agenda
to see if the Council had any questions relative to
the program.
Upon question by Wilson, Mr. Ortega responded that
each household would be given one container, but
additional containers would be available If one was
not sufficient.
Upon question by Snyder, Mr. Ortega stated that
people who are paying extra for back yard service
would still be able to receive same.
Councilmember Benson stated she felt it was a good
program.
2. Poi icy for Acceptance of Palm Trees, Plants,
Boulders, Etc.
3. Request for Review of Sidewalk Need at Goleta Avenue
and Deep Canyon Road.
4. Public Utilities Commission Decision Regarding
Contributions in Aid of Construction.
No Council action was necessary or taken on Items 2, 3, and 4.
XI. CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XII. OLD BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST BY PALMER-CABLEVISION FOR
APPOINTMENT OF TWO MEMBERS OF THE COMMUNITY TO PARTICIPATE
ON AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE.
Mayor Kelly stated that Councilman Wilson had suggested
that the chairman of the Citizens Task Force to study
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cable television in Palm Desert should serve as a member
of this advisory committee; however, that task force was
not yet formed, and no chairman had been selected.
Councilman Wilson stated he had collected a number of
names and asked either that the Mayor appoint the task
force or have the Councilmember submit names for
consideration.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, direct that the
Mayor and Councilman Wilson: 1) Compile a list of individuals to be
considered by the Council for membership on the Citizens Task Force; and
2) Suggest the names of two individuals to serve on the Palmer
Cablevision Community Advisory Committee. Motion was seconded by Snyder
and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. INVITATION BY PALMER CABLEVISION FOR A MEMBER OF THE CITY
COUNCIL TO ATTEND A PREVIEW OF ITS 1988 TECHNICAL
OPERATIONAL ENHANCEMENT PLANS.
Councilman Wilson moved to appoint Councilmember Benson to
represent the City at this function. Motion was seconded by Crites and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
Mr. Ortega requested that Item R on the Consent Calendar
be reconsidered inasmuch as he had just received some
communication from the County of Riverside.
Councilman Wilson moved to reconsider Item R on the Consent
Calendar. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of
the Council.
Mr. Ortega asked that the item be continued to the meeting
of December loth.
Councilman Wilson moved to continue Item R to the Council
meeting of December 10th. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Mr. Phillips reminded the Council that it needed to
adjourn to Closed Session pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8 real property transactions, 54956.9(a)
pending litigation, and 54956.9(b) potential litigation.
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C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
Councilman Crites:
1. Traffic issues at the corner of Monterey Avenue
and Frank Sinatra Drive.
Councilman Crites stated this corner was a major
problem and asked staff to advise what the City
could do to help people get through the
intersection -safely. He suggested that the City
Council's concern be expressed to the agencies
having jurisdiction in this area.
Mr. Folkers stated thata traffic signal was
being designed but that it would take time for
it to be installed.
Councilman Wilson expressed concern with putting
in a traffic signal instead of exploring some
alternative way to control the traffic.
Mr. Folkers responded that this was not in our
jurisdiction, and the City of Palm Desert was
strictly in an advisory role. He said he would
express Council's concerns.
2. Yard Lighting - Mercury Vapor.
Councilman Crites stated that he had been
contacted by residents who were concerned with
home security and wanted to install mercury
vapor lights on dawn to dusk dimmers. He asked
that staff look into this matter.
Mayor Kelly expressed concern that citizens were
being advised that they could not put in these
lights when the College of the Desert was
allowed to have the big lights for the driving
range.
Councilman Wilson stated that he would hate to
see the City charge ahead ,with something like
this without first finding out how members of
the community feel.
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Councilman Crites suggested putting this issue
in the next newsletter and asking people for
their opinions.
Council concurred.
3. Tree Ordinance.
Councilman Crites stated that he would like to
have staff look into preparing an ordinance to
protect trees of major stature in the City from
being destroyed when development takes place.
He said, for example, that a beautiful large oak
tree was destroyed when the Iron Gate restaurant
changed ownership.
Council concurred.
4. Councilman Crites stated that he had noticed
poles along the Palm Valley Channel and that the
Coachella Valley Water District was going to be
putting in chain link fencing along that area.
He thanked both Mr. Ortega and Mr. Folkers for
working with the Coachella Valley Water District
and getting it changed to another type of
fencing which would not be so offensive to the
City.
5. Councilman Crites stated that several months
previously. the Council had passed a resolution
approving a vacation of the cul-de-sac at
Highway 74 and El Paseo for the Fred Fern
project. He said there was now a difference of
opinion as to what was obligated in terms of
public art. He asked staff to go back and
research the matter to see if the developer was
responsible for paying a fee or to purchase a
piece of artwork.
Mrs. Gilligan added that the developer had
called and again asked to be placed on the next
Civic Arts Committee agenda to discuss this
requirement.
6. Councilman Wilson asked that staff look into how
many bingo permits had been issued in the City
and stated that he only remembered the Council
approving a few.
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X1V.
o City Council Committee Reports:
None
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
None
Councilman Wilson moved to adjourn to Closed Session at 5:22
p.m. pursuant to Government Code Sections 54956.8, real property
transactions; 54956.9(a), pending litigation; and 54956.9(b), potential
litigation. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote
of the Council.
Mayor Kelly reconvened the meeting at 6:14 p.m. and immediately
recessed for dinner, with no action announced. He reconvened
the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
XV. COMPLETION OF ITEMS HELD OVER FROM 4:00 P.M. SESSION
None
XVI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - C
MS. MARY JANE OUTCAULT, 73-200 Tumbleweed, Palm Desert,
addressed the Council and announced that the La Quanta Arts
Foundation Fair at La Quinta would be held on November 15th
from 10:00 a.m. to dusk at the La Quinta Community Park.
XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. REORGANIZATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
1. SELECTION OF MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO-TEMPORE:
Mayor Kelly declared the Offices of Mayor and Mayor Pro-
Tempore vacant and asked the City Clerk to conduct the
selection of said officers.
Mrs. Gilligan declared the nominations open for the Office
of Mayor.
Councilman Wilson stated that fourteen years earlier the
voters elected the first woman to the Palm Desert City
Council and that he now felt it was time to elect that
individual to be the first woman Mayor. He nominated
Councilmember Benson for the Office of Mayor.
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Councilman Snyder moved that a unanimous ballot be cast for
Councilmember Benson. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by a 4-
0-1 vote, with Benson ABSTAINING.
Mrs. Gilligan declared the nominations open for the Office
of Mayor Pro-Tempore.
Councilman Crites stated that it was his pleasure to
nominate for this office a person who had been his
colleague and mentor for over a decade, and he nominated
Councilman Wilson for the Office of Mayor Pro-Tempore.
Councilman Kelly moved that a unanimous ballot be cast for
Councilmember Wilson. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by a 4-
0-1 vote, with Wilson ABSTAINING.
2. COMMENTS BY NEWLY SELECTED MAYOR AND MAYOR
PRO-TEMPORE.
Mayor Benson stated she was honored with the
appointment and proud to be the first woman Mayor.
She said that it had been very easy for her to be a
part of the shaping of the community since her
arrival in 1969. She said, like the previous Palm
Desert mayors, she was willing to do anything she
could for Palm Desert to keep it the envy of all the
desert cities and that, with help from above, she
would do her best because her heart truly belongs to
Palm Desert.
Mayor Pro-Tem Wilson stated that it would be an honor
for him to be able to serve with Mayor Bergson. He
said this was the first time he had had the
opportunity to serve as Mayor Pro-Tempore and that he
looked forward to the challenge.
3. COMMENTS BY OUTGOING MAYOR.
Councilman Kelly expressed his appreciation to the
citizens of Palm Desert and City Staff for the help
given him throughout the two years he served the City
as Mayor. He said he was confident the present City
Council would continue to work towards the quality of
life everyone has come to expect in Palm Desert. He
added that he had three more years to serve on the
Council and assured everyone that he would continue
to work just as hard as he had in the past.
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NOVEMBER 12, 1987
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Mayor Benson stated that it had been a pleasure for
the Council to work with him as Mayor.
Mayor Benson called a recess at 7:14 p.m. She reconvened the
meeting at 7:25 p.m.
B. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENTS to Civic Arts Committee to
Fill Vacancies Created by Resignations of the Following
Members: Jane Leung (9/87); Michael Grossman (9/88); and
Barry White (9/90) (Continued from Meeting of August 27,
1987).
Councilman Crites moved to appoint the following individuals to
the Civic Arts Committee: 1) Mr. Richard Johns to fill the vacancy
created by the resignation of Jane Leung, said term to expire in
September, 1991; 2) Mr. Frederick Thon to fill the vacancy created by the
resignation of Michael Grossman, said term to expire in September, 1988;
3) Ms. Alexis Larson to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of
Barry White, said term to expire in September, 1990; and 4) Ms. Diane
Funk and Mr. Robert Spiegel to fill the two new positions created when
the Council adopted Resolution 87-95, increasing the membership on the
Civic Arts Committee from 11 to 13. Motion was seconded by Crites and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Map for Tract 21602,
Reversion to Acreage - Richard Grover/John Martinez,
Applicants. (Continued from the Meeting of October 22,
1987, Consent Calendar, to be conducted as a public
hearing.)
Mr. Folkers reviewed the staff report, noting that this
final map represented the last step in the development
process for the site.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open and invited
testimony in FAVOR of or OPPOSED to this request. None was
offered. She declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 87-93, approving the Final Map. Motion was seconded by
Kelly and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Snyder voting NO.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
B. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR VACATION OF STREET RIGHT-
OF-WAY ON EDGEHILL DRIVE/GREEN WAY.
Mr. Folkers reviewed the staff report dated October 22,
1987, and offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open and invited
testimony in FAVOR of or OPPOSED to this request.
MR. LOWELL WOODEN, 219 Seville, Palm Desert, stated that
he was the developer and was available to answer any
questions the Council might have.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 87-100, vacating the right-of-way as shown in its Exhibits
A and B. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of
the Council.
C. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO PP 86-43 AND DA 86-7
DELETING 33 APARTMENTS FROM THE ORIGINALLY APPROVED 276
UNIT SENIOR HOUSING PROJECT AND ADDING 66 ASSISTED LIVING
AND SKILLED NURSING UNITS; AMENDED PROJECT WILL THEREFORE
INCLUDE 243 SENIOR CITIZEN APARTMENTS AND 66 ASSISTED
LIVING/SKILLED NURSING ROOMS LOCATED ON 23 ACRES ON THE
NORTH SIDE OF FRED WARING DRIVE, 1400 FEET EAST OF COOK
STREET. (Dale 8 Pamela Smallwood, Applicants)
Mr. Phil Drell, Associate Planner, reviewed the staff
report and site plan, noting that staff felt the amended
project was consistent with the original approval of
October 23, 1986. He recommended approval of the project.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open and invited
testimony in FAVOR of this request.
MRS. PAMELA SMALLWOOD, 71-111 La Paz, Rancho Mirage, spoke
as the applicant and offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Benson invited testimony in OPPOSITION to the request.
and none was offered. She declared the public hearing closed.
17
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • •
• •
• • • • • • • •
Councilman Wilson moved to: 1) Waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 87-101, approving PP/CUP 86-43 amendment; and 2) Waive
further reading and pass Ordinance No. 522 to second reading, amending DA
86-7. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
D. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AND PREANNEXATION ZONING OF
APPROXIMATELY 119 ACRES DIRECTLY ADJACENT TO THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT'S EASTERN BOUNDARY, WEST OF COOK STREET
BETWEEN THE WHITEWATER STORM CHANNEL AND 42ND AVENUE.
Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report, noting that a petition
had been submitted to the City by 21% of the registered
voters in this area. He said staff's recommendation was
that the Council pass Ordinance No. 523 to second reading,
approving the change of zone. and adopt Resolution No. 87-
102, making application to LAFCO for Annexation No. 22.
Councilman Wilson asked how much of the land east of Cook
Street was in the County. Mr. Diaz responded that it was
in the City of Indian Wells' sphere of influence and that
everything south of Avenue 42 was Indian Wells, while
everything north was Palm Desert.
Mr. Drell stated that land directly across Cook Street was
in the City of Palm Desert's sphere of influence and that
most of it was the Coachella Valley Water District sewage
treatment plant. He added that there was a line of
industrial property on Cook Street which was in the
County.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open and invited
testimony in OPPOSITION to this request.
MS. NANCY VAN COOK, 74-873 Merle Drive, submitted a
petition signed by property owners in Country Club Village
Estates in opposition to the proposed annexation (on file
and of record in the City Clerk's Office). She said they
felt the annexation would result in undue hardship by the
imposition of superfluous fire and police fees, assessment
for sewer hookup, and higher taxes.
MR. BILL ALEXANDER, 555 W. Baristo Road, #7, Palm Springs,
submitted four letters of opposition from property owners
in the Valley Industrial Park (on file and of record in
the City Clerk's Office). He said that although the City
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
of Palm Desert had high standards for building, he felt
they were not unreasonable. However, buildings in this
park were constructed under County of Riverside standards.
He said they were concerned with the following:
Parking --would the City allow the angled parking to
remain?
- Trucks parking in the middle of the street --could the
City help in this regard?
- Will buildings have to be restructured to conform to
City standards?
What are the City fees and taxes? County has none to
move in.
- Police patrol very inadequate under the County --will
it be better under the City?
- On unimproved lots, how will the City address
requirements for landscaping?
- What is the time table for the annexation? Does the
City just have the right to do this?
He closed his comments by stating that if the people could
not come to an amicable agreement with the City, they
would try going directly to LAFCO to stop the annexation.
He offered to answer any questions.
Mr. Diaz stated that all uses permitted under the County
would be legal in the City and would be legal
nonconforming use, such as the angled parking. However,
those uses that had come in and been allowed to exist
because .of lax County enforcement or regulations would not
be legal nonconforming. As far as taxes, he said the City
had a fire impact fee which was for additional fire
protection and paramedic service that the County did not
presently have.
Mr. Fo l ke r s stated that the angled parking could be
handled. However, the situation of the occasional vehicle
parking in the middle of the street would have to be
looked at to see what mitigation measures could be taken.
MR. ANDY FARGO, 42-521 Claudia, stated that people in his
neighborhood had several concerns: 1) Wanted fencing
around the pools; 2) Wanted the 40 foot streets widened to
60 feet with sidewalks; and 3) Wanted a grandfather clause
for the existing businesses.
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MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • if • it * • • • • • • • • • • • •
Mr. Diaz stated that those businesses in the residential
zone would not be considered legal nonconforming because
they were illegal under the County regulations. He said
that based on the new petition received and concerns
expressed at this meeting. staff would recommend at the
conclusion of this hearing that the matter be continued in
order to allow time to study the petitions and determine
whether or not any of the businesses could be
grandfathered in.
Upon question by Councilman Crites, Mr. Phillips stated
that if they were nuisance businesses, he would recommend
that they not be grandfathered in because they were uses
that were nonconforming under the County Code. However,
home occupations might be considered legal nonconforming.
He recommended hearing from everyone and then allowing
staff time to address the concerns and perhaps try to
resolve them.
MR. CLIFFORD SHINN, 54-721 Monroe, Thermal, stated he
owned both developed and undeveloped property in the tract
and expressed concern that if this annexation went
through, it would cost him and his tenants more money when
the property was developed.
MR. DAN KELLY, 48-900 Paisano, stated he owned one of the
few undeveloped properties and asked whether County
requirements would still be used for undeveloped land.
Mr. Diaz responded that undeveloped properties would have
to conform to City of Palm Desert requirements when they
were developed.
MR. STEVE PANIKOFF, 74-275 Covered Wagon Trail, asked
which standards would be used for land which was partially
undeveloped. Mr. Phillips asked whether or not he had
acquired rights to develop under the County Code when the
land was acquired. Mr. Panikoff stated he had not, and
Mr. Phillips said that any further development could be
required to comply with City standards.
M5. SUSAN BURDETT, 1815 Calle Via Alamos, San Clemente,
stated she owned property in the tract and felt it would
be more costly for her and her tenants to be a part of the
City of Palm Desert.
20
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEN$[It 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •- • • • s
MR. TOM ANDECK, 74-619 Gary Avenue, asked what benefits he
would receive from "incorporating". Mayor Benson
responded that there were many advantages to being in the
City, including police, fire, and paramedic service and
good street maintenance.
Councilman Crites stated that it was not the City which
had requested this annexation; rather, It was the
neighborhood residents who had approached the City and
asked to be annexed.
Mr. Phillips stated that if there was 25% protest, the
issue would go to an election. Then, if 50% or more of
the homeowners or landowners protested, the annexation
would not go forward.
Mr. Diaz stated that letters had been sent from the Mayor
to all property and business owners outlining the
advantages and additional costs to join the City, such as
fire protection. He said the letters also indicated that
Phil Drell should be contacted if they had any questions.
MR. BERT KAPLAN, 708 Forest Court, Rancho Mirage, stated
that he owned land in the industrial area and that most of
the owners in that industrial were opposed to the
annexation. He asked whether only voters registered in
that area were allowed to vote on the issue if it went on
a ballot, and Mr. Diaz responded yes.
MS. VAN COOK stated that she had contacted the Fire
Marshall relative to benefits for joining Palm Desert.
She said the only difference between the County and the
City as far as emergency response was that there would be
three less emergency persons under the County, and Springs
Ambulance would respond versus the paramedics.
MR. CLIFFORD SHINN asked whether or not the owners in the
industrial area were allowed to vote, and Councilman
Wilson responded that they would not be allowed to do so
if the matter went to an election.
Mr. Altman recommended that the Council receive any
additional testimony at this time and then continue the
matter to allow the Annexation Committee to meet with
these people to discuss their concerns and come back with
a report and recommendation.
21
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • •
• • • •
• • • • • • • • • • • •
Mayor Benson invited testimony in FAVOR of this request.
MS. AMY ROTH-WHITE, 74-737 Gary Avenue, stated she felt
the residential area was a mess because of the businesses
and the parking problems. She felt this was causing the
property values to go down. and the only way to increase
these values was to join the City.
MR. JERRY ALLEN, 74-573 Merle Drive, stated that if he had
any problems or wanted to attend a meeting and speak to
his representative, he had to drive to Riverside. He said
his neighborhood needed help, he was tired of people
running businesses in the residential area, and the County
had no code enforcement at all.
MR. DICK KAHL, 74-613 Merle Drive, stated he would be very
proud if he could join the City of Palm Desert.
MR. RICHARD JACKSON, 74-603 Merle, stated he was very much
in favor of this annexation. He said he had a service
business and rented space in the Valley Industrial Park.
He hoped the annexation would help both his business and
his tenants.
MR. ANTHONY BORDERS, 74-607 Gary Street, stated that there
were people in the industrial park who had concerns;
however, they were not the concerns of the residents. He
said it was not the residents' wish to cost the business
people their profits, but they did have their needs and
asked the Council to address those needs. He felt the
annexation was supported by a majority of the residents,
and he supported the suggestion made by the City Manager
that the Annexation Committee sit down with concerned
residents and business owners to explain the benefits of
the annexation. He asked whether they would be obligated
to pay a sewer assessment if annexed.
Councilman Wilson responded that sewers were covered by
the Coachella Valley Water District and that there were
currently many areas in the City which were not part of
the sewer system.
Upon question by Councilman Wilson, Mr. Diaz stated that
it would take approximately six to eight months for the
annexation to be processed without going to an election.
With an election, it would probably take from eight months
to a year. He said that, even at the LAFCO level, if
22
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NO11EMt 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •- a- • • •
there was substantial oppostion, the matter could go to an
election.
Councilman Wilson agreed that the Council should receive
as much testimony as possible at this hearing; however, he
felt information needed to be given to the people. He
asked if this could be done at the same time as the
processing of the annexation through LAFCO.
MR. SHINN stated that his main complaint was that he did
not want to be "dragged into this" without a vote.
Councilman Wilson moved to: 1) Waive further reading and pass
Ordinance No. 523 to second reading; 2) Waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 87-102,making application to LAFCO for Annexation No. 22;
and 3) direct staff to, within the next month, get information out to the
people who would be involved in this annexation and invite them come in
and ask questions about specific areas of concern. Motion was seconded
by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
E. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE PALM DESERT ZONING
ORDINANCE, SECTION 25.56.200, REGARDING CORNER TRAFFIC
SIGHT OBSTRUCTIONS.
Mr. Diaz stated that the Agenda Indicated staff's
recommendation was to continue this item to the meeting of
December 10th because the Public Works Director had
concerns with the proposed amendment. However, those
concerns had since been cleared up. He said the amendment
would clarify the starting point for determining the
obstruction -free triangle at street corners. He
recommended that the Council waive further reading and
pass Ordinance No. 524 to second reading. -
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open and invited
testimony in FAVOR of or OPPOSED to this amendment. None was
offered. She declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and pass
Ordinance No. 524 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Snyder and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Mayor/Chairman Benson convened the Redevelopment Agency meeting
at 8:49 p.m. for the purpose of holding a joint City
Council/Redevelopment Agency public hearing relative to the
Sheriff's Substation.
23
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • •
ROLL CALL
• • • •
• • • • • • • • • • •
Present:
Councilman/Member Buford A. Crites
Councilman/Member Richard S. Kelly
Councilman/Member Walter H. Snyder
Mayor Pro-Tem/Vice Chairman S. Roy Wilson
Mayor/Chairman Jean M. Benson
Also Present:
Carlos L. Ortega, Assistant City Manager/Executive Director
Bruce A. Altman, City Manager
Doug Phillips, Deputy City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, City Clerk/Secretary
Richard J. Folkers, Director of Public Works
Ramon A. Diaz, Director of Community Services
Kirby J. Warner, Director of General Services
CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Meeting of the Redevelopment Agency of
October 22, 1987.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE AGENCY TREASURY - Demand
No. WR0916.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. LETTERS OF RESIGNATION from Carl L. Karcher, William
Tennison, M.D., and James C. Foster from the Project Area
Committee.
Rec: Accept with sincere regret.
D. REQUEST FOR WITHDRAWAL OF RESIGNATION from Sandy Baum as
Member of the Project Area Committee.
Rec: Approve the request and reinstate Mr. Baum as a
member of the Committee.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH COUNTY
OF RIVERSIDE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 2.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Agreement No. 00-259
and authorize the Mayor to execute same.
24
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • i 1--i- -F • •
Mr. Ortega asked that Item E be removed from the Consent
Calendar for separate discussion under the Consent Items
Held Over section of the Agenda.
Upon motion by Wilson, second by Snyder, and unanimous vote of
the City Council/Agency Board, the Consent Calendar, with theexception
of Item E, was approved es presented.
ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
None
RESOLUTIONS
None
CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH COUNTY
OF RIVERSIDE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 2.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Agreement No. 00-259
and authorize the Mayor to execute same.
Mr. Ortega stated that an agreement had not yet been
reached between the City, Redevelopment Agency, and County
of Riverside. He said the County had indicated It would
agree to continue the negotiations if the Redevelopment
Agency and City would agree to extend the time within
which it could commence validation action by private
party. He noted that a letter had been sent by the Mayor
agreeing to extend the time to December 18th, and, he asked
that the Council/Agency Board ratify the action taken by
the Mayor.
Mayor Pro-Tem/Vice Chairman Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion:
1) ratify the action taken by the Mayor which extended the County's time
to file a validating action against the City to December 18, 1987; and
2) continue consideration of the cooperative agreement #00-259 to the
meeting of December 1Oth. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by
unanimous vote of the Council/Agency Board.
NEW BUSINESS
None
CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
25
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • a • • • a • • • • • a • • a • • • • • • • • •
OLD BUSINESS
None
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH CITY COUNCIL
A. CONSIDERATION OF THE USE OF TAXES TO BE ALLOCATED AND PAID
TO THE AGENCY FOR THE PURPOSE OF PAYING ALL OR PART OF THE
VALUE OF THE LAND FOR AND INSTALLATION AND CONSTRUCTION OF
A PROPOSED SHERIFF'S SUBSTATION.
Mr. Oretega stated that the purpose of the public hearing
was to hear any objections to this matter.
Mayor/Chairman Benson declared the public hearing open and
invited testimony in FAVOR of or OPPOSED to this matter. None
was offered. She declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman/Member Snyder moved to: 1) Waive further reading and
adopt City Council Resolution No. 87-103; and 2) Waive further reading
and adopt Redevelopment Agency Resolution No. 210. Motion was seconded
by Crites and carried by unanimous vote.
REPr^TS, REMARKS, AND AGENCY BOARD ITEMS REQUIRING ACTION
A. EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
None
B. AGENCY COUNSEL
None
C. CHAIRMAN AND MEMBERS OF THE AGENCY
None
ADJOURNMENT
Member Snyder moved to adjourn the Redevelopment Agency meeting
at 8:55 p.m. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote
of the Agency Board.
XIX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - D
None
26
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 12, 1987
• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •
XX. ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Crites, second by Wilson, and unanimous vote of
the City Council, Mayor Benson adjourned the meeting at 8:56 p.m.
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. GILL GAN, CITY ERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CA FORNIA
AN
BENSON, MAYOR
27