HomeMy WebLinkAbout1991-11-14MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Snyder convened the meeting at 4:05 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman Buford A. Crites
III. INVOCATION - Councilmember Jean M. Benson
IV. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Jean M. Benson
Councilman Buford A. Crites
Mayor Pro-Tempore Richard S. Kelly
Councilman S. Roy Wilson (arrived at 4:10 p.m.)
Mayor Walter H. Snyder
Also Present:
Bruce A. Altman, City Manager
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, City Clerk/P.I.O.
Richard J. Folkers, ACM/Director of Public Works
Paul Shillcock, ACM/Director of Economic Development
Frank Allen, Director of Code Compliance
Pat Conlon, Director of Building and Safety
Paul Gibson, City Treasurer/Finance Director
Phillip Drell, Senior Planner
David Yrigoyen, RDA Administrative Assistant
John Wohlmuth, Environmental Conservation Manager
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of October 24, 1991.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Nos.
WR1001, WR1008, WR1010, WR1014, and WR1016.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Chi Hung Ho for China
Garden Restaurant, 73-196 Highway 111, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and refer to Department of Community Development for processing
of Conditional Use Permit.
D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Hardy & Petrakis, Inc.
for 40's Again, 72-990 El Paseo, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and refer to Department of Community Development for processing
of Conditional Use Permit.
E. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#1801 by Peter Scialdone in the Amount of $400.
Rec: Deny the Claim and instruct the City Clerk to so advise the Claimant.
F. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#1811 by Attorney Mark J. Sullivan on Behalf of
Frances McBride in an Unspecified Amount.
Rec: Deny the Claim and instruct the City Clerk to so advise the Claimant.
G. RESOLUTION NO. 91-121 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, Setting Forth its Findings and Authorizing the Destruction of Files
from the Department of Building and Safety that have been Microfilmed (August, 1991).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
H. RESOLUTION NO. 91-122 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, Setting Forth its Findings and Authorizing the Destruction of Files
from the Department of Building and Safety that have been Microfilmed (September,
1991).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
I. MINUTES of the Regular Civic Arts Committee Meetings of July 15 and September 16,
1991.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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J. REOUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for the Maintenance of Presidents Plaza
Parking Lots (Contract No. 00-573).
Rec: By Minute Motion, award the contract for the subject project to Arrowhead
Landscape and Maintenance, Inc. in the amount of $5,700.00 ($475.00 per
month).
K. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 2 to Contract 00-420 for
NBS/Lowry for Master Drainage Plan.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve Change Order No. 2 to Contract 00-420 for
NBS/Lowry to move contingency to base in the amount of $10,899.63; 2)
continue the Master Drainage Plan matter to the City Council meeting of
December 12, 1991.
L. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 2 to Contract 00-523 with Avant
Gardens for Water Efficient Landscape Guidelines.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve Change Order No. 2 to Contract 00-523 in the
amount of $1,250.00 for additional services; 2) appropriate an additional
$1,250.00 from the unobligated general fund budget reserve to the project
budget.
M. REOUEST FOR RELEASE of Subdivision Improvement Securities for Tract 23681
(Pomona First Federal, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the subdivision improvements as complete and
authorize the City Clerk to release the subdivision improvement securities for
this project.
N. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Tract Map 27301 (Westinghouse Desert
Communities, Applicant).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 91-123, approving Tract Map
27301.
O. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Tract Map 27228 (Westinghouse Desert
Communities, Applicant).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 91-124, approving Tract Map
27228.
P. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Tract Map 23940-1 (Robert B. Varner,
Applicant).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 91-125. approving Tract Map
23940-1.
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Q.
REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Tract Map 25711 (Palm Desert El Dorado, Ltd.,
Applicant).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 91-126, approving Tract Map
25711.
R. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Sister City Employee Exchange.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the selection of the ACM/Director of Public Works
as the Palm Desert employee for the 1991/1992 Sister City Employee Exchange.
S. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Out -of -State Travel for City Clerk and Deputy City
Clerk to Attend City Clerk Institute in Tempe, Arizona, January 27-31, 1992.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request and authorize the City Clerk and
Deputy City Clerk to attend an institute for certification in Tempe, Arizona,
January 27-31, 1992.
T. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Construction Access Agreement Between the City of
Palm Desert and DSL Service Company (Contract No. 00-586).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute a Construction Access
Agreement between the City of Palm Desert and DSL Service Company.
U. CONSIDERATION OF LETTER from Ms. Lori Carangelo Relative to Bells at the Palm
Desert Community Presbyterian Church.
Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation at the Council Meeting of
December 12, 1991.
V. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Contract with T.I. Maloney, Inc. for Engineering and
Landscape Design Services for Ironwood Park (Contract No. 00-587).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the Mayor to enter into a contract with T.I.
Maloney, Inc. in an amount not to exceed $24,750 for engineering and landscape
design services for the subject project; 2) move an additional $5,000 from the
capital improvement project budget to the design services budget.
W. CONSIDERATION OF REPORT Relative to Support of El Paseo Business Association.
Rec: Receive and file.
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X. LETTER from City of El Monte Seeking Support of the State Department of Alcoholic
Beverage Control (ABC) and Calling Upon the Governor and the State Legislature to
Consider the Matter of Funding to the State ABC.
Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation.
Y. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Highway 111 Corridor Study.
Rec: By Minute Motion, conceptually approve the study's recommendations pertaining
to those within the City of Palm Desert.
Councilman Crites removed Item E for discussion in Closed Session and Item X for
separate discussion under Section IX, Consent Items Held Over.
Mr. Altman asked that Items T and V also be held for separate discussion.
Upon motion by Kelly, second by Crites, the remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved
as presented by a 4-0-1 vote, with Councilman Wilson ABSENT.
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
None
VII. RESOLUTIONS
None
NOTE: COUNCILMAN WILSON ARRIVED AT 4:10 P.M.
var. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 660 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 9.57T0 ARTICLE VII OF
TITLE 9 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE
DISPLAY OF HARMFUL MATTER.
Mr. Erwin stated that this matter had been referred to him by the Council at its last
meeting because of a letter received from the Mayor of Indio. He noted there was a
report from him in the packets as well as a proposed ordinance.
Councilman Wilson questioned whether this had been a problem in the City and stated
he had noticed some of the stores already used blinder racks. He said he would prefer
to see this matter referred to staff to study whether or not there is a problem.
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Councilman Crites added that he would like to see a definition of what constitutes
"harmful matter" that is simple, precise, and defendable.
Mr. Erwin stated that the staff report should have included a copy of Penal Code Section
313. He said the ordinance referred to this section which basically defined "harmful
matter" and that the ordinance would not be changing those definitions. He offered to
provide Council with a copy of the definition and terminology being used.
Councilmember Benson questioned what complaints had been received by the Indio
Police Department.
Mr. Erwin responded that a number of places in Indio had voluntarily used blinder racks
but that apparently some had not, and the Indio ordinance was in response to that
situation.
Councilman Wilson moved to TABLE this matter and to direct staff to study the issue to see
if there is in fact a problem and bring it back to Council at such time as it is found a problem does
exist. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 656 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 25.38 OF THE CODE
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RELATING TO THE P-
PUBLIC/INSTITUTIONAL DISTRICT, CASE NO. ZOA 91-2 (Continued from the
Meeting of October 24, 1991).
Mr. Altman noted that this ordinance had been held over from the last meeting because
it needed three affirmative votes to be adopted, and Mayor Snyder was absent. He stated
there had been no changes since introduction of the ordinance.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 656. Motion was
seconded by Benson and carried by a 3-2 vote, with Councilmembers Crites and Wilson ABSTAINING.
B. ORDINANCE NO. 659 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 25.28 AND 25.30 OF
THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RELATING TO
THE COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS, CASE NO. ZOA 91-3 (Continued from the Meeting
of October 24, 1991).
Mr. Altman stated there had been no changes since introduction of this ordinance, and
he recommended its adoption.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 659. Motion was
seconded by Benson and carried by a 3-2 vote, with Councilmembers Crites and Wilson ABSTAINING.
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IX. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
E. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#180) by Peter Scialdone in the Amount of $400.
With Council concurrence, this item was held over to be discussed in Closed Session.
T. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Construction Access Agreement Between the City of
Palm Desert and DSL Service Company (Contract No. 00-586).
Mr. Erwin stated that he would like a condition added to the approval that prior to the
City executing the agreement, Ahmanson be required to execute an agreement that it will
assume all responsibilities for the DSL agreement.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute a
Construction Access Agreement between the City of Palm Desert and DSL Service Company, with an
added condition that prior to the City executing the agreement, Ahmanson be required to execute an
agreement that it will assume all responsibilities for the DSL agreement. Motion was seconded by
Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
V. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Contract with T.I. Maloney, Inc. for Engineering and
Landscape Design Services for Ironwood Park (Contract No. Q0-587).
Mr. Altman asked that Council hold this item until the next meeting to allow staff time
to obtain additional background information for the Council relative to the engineering
and landscape design.
Councilman Wilson moved to continue this matter to the meeting of December 12, 1991.
Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
X. LETTER from City of El Monte Seeking Support of the State Department of Alcoholic
Beverage Control (ABC) and Calling Upon the Governor and the State Legislature to
Consider the Matter of Funding to the State ABC.
Councilman Crites stated that what the Council typically does in matters such as this is
to send a resolution of support. He asked in this case that staff also look at whether or
not we may use our representatives of the firm we work with in Sacramento to see if
there is anything that firm can also do. He said he felt the issue of having good control
and having people out doing the work of the Alcoholic Beverage Control was very
important and that it deserved more than just a resolution of support.
Councilman Crites moved to refer this matter to staff for report and recommendation. Motion
was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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X. NEW BUSINESS
A. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
1. Palmer CableVision Update.
Mr. Yrigoyen stated a report had been included in the packets indicating
complaints received and how they had been handled.
2. Update on Tri-Cities Sports Facility.
Mr. Drell state he had nothing new to report at this time.
Mr. Folkers added that staff would prepare a report for the December 12, 1991,
City Council meeting detailing the next steps to be taken.
3. Status of Date Palm Grove.
Mr. Shillcock said he had reported at the last meeting that the RFP had been
prepared and distributed for comment. He said the deadline for said comments
was Monday, November 18th, and that staff would then begin the review process.
4. Three -Way Stop at Portola Avenue and Haystack Road Intersection.
Mr. Folkers stated that controls had been put in at this intersection. As far as
staff could determine, everything seemed to be working. He said staff was satisfied
with it and would continue to watch the intersection for a while.
5. Landscaping of Civic Center Entryways.
Mr. Folkers stated that the report indicated costs involved in retrofitting the three
entryways would be approximately $13,900.
Councilman Wilson asked whether there was a need to do something at this point
in time.
Councilman Kelly expressed concern because he had recently accepted an award
on behalf of the Council for the City's drought tolerant landscaping program and
then could not get his car through the Civic Center entryways without it getting
wet from sprinklers. He said he felt the City should set an example of what is
trying to be accomplished and what is being recommended to others in the City
and that the money should be spent to retrofit the three entryways.
Councilman Wilson said he did not like the idea of putting something in and
then turning around and taking it out again. He said this made it look as if the
City could not make up its mind what it wanted to do.
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Councilmember Benson agreed with Kelly and said that everyone who brings in
landscaping plans is asked to make it drought tolerant, while the City does not do
the same. She agreed the City should set an example and said she did not think
Council had known there would be grass in the entryways.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Direct staff to proceed with the installation
of drought tolerant landscaping at the entrances to the Civic Center; 2) appropriate $13,900 as
indicated in the staff report for this retrofit; 3) appropriate an amount not to exceed $5,000 for design
and consultant costs. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 3-2 vote, with Councilman
Wilson and Mayor Snyder voting NO.
XL CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XII. OLD BUSINESS
A. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL OF EXISTING LIGHTING IN 26 TREES OUTSIDE
HOTEL, (EMBASSY SUITES HOTEL, APPLICANT).
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that this matter was sent back to the
Architectural Review Commission to look at the issue of lights. He said the
Commissioners reaffirmed their earlier approval and felt the lights were tasteful,
aesthetic, and contributed to the ambience of the place and also were a benefit to the
City. As far as more specific criteria, the Commission clarified its policy relating to tree
lights as follows: 1) no color lights should be permitted; 2) bulbs should be small, white
non -blinking lights; 3) lighting should be low voltage accent lighting; 4) lighting should
be tastefully done and aesthetically acceptable.
Mr. Drell added that he had been informed by the Director of Building and Safety that
the lights currently being used were not low voltage UA approved outside lights. He said
if this request were approved by Council, there was a strong possibility the lights would
have to be replaced. Mr. Drell noted a letter of support had been received from the
Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce (on file and of record in the City Clerk's Office).
Mr. Drell stated that there had been some discussion that the lighting approval could be
done on a temporary one-year basis, subject to annual evaluation for extension. He said
the Commission was very clear that it understood what was being approved and that it
was permanent lighting.
Councilman Crites stated he had spoken with the Chairman of the Architectural Review
Commission who indicated it was his impression that the approval was seasonal and was
not for permanent lights.
Mr. Drell responded that he had also spoken with the Chairman of the Commission half
an hour ago. He said he had relayed Councilman Crites' impression and that the
Chairman concurred that the decision of the Commission was unanimous. He said his
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comment was with reference to the ability of the City to periodically be able to review
impact of the lighting and have the ability to not grant an extension.
Councilman Crites stated that he felt having 26 to 30 lights over the entire piece of
property was for signage and designed to attract attention. He said he felt if the lights
were to be repeated along El Paseo or the Highway, the quality of the area would suffer.
In addition, he did see this as something the City of Palm Desert should be noted for.
Councilman Kelly asked the applicant to speak to this issue.
MR. MICHAEL KAHLER, General Manager of Embassy Suites Hotel, said when he
first came to the Palm Desert area he felt the outdoor lighting (i.e.,E1 Paseo) had made
the City an exciting place and heightened the visitors' sense of arrival. In addition to
requesting approval of his lights, he said he was encouraging other people to do the same.
He said he felt the lights were aesthetically pleasing and said "welcome" to people who
come to visit.
Councilmember Benson stated that with regard to the voltage of the lights, she did not
have any objections. She commented that she had driven by the hotel and felt the lights
looked gaudy as opposed to the few twinkling lights in the trees along El Paseo which
she felt looked nice. She suggested that if these lights are going to be approved and if
they are to be redone, that they be done with half the lights that are there now. She
added that she would not like to see this type of lighting all along Highway 111.
Councilman Kelly stated that he agreed with the saying that "beauty is in the eye of the
beholder" and felt the lights looked good. He said he asked a lot of people for their
opinions and got about 70% in favor and 30% opposed. He asked if the lights would
have to be changed, and Mr. Drell responded that they would because the voltage would
be different. Councilman Kelly asked if the applicant understood that he would be
required to change the lights.
Mr. Kahler responded that he would be happy to do so as soon as he knew exactly what
needed to be done. Upon question by Councilman Kelly, he responded that he would
have no problem in placing the strings of light 12 inches apart instead of six inches apart.
Councilman Kelly stated he would be in favor of approving this request conditioned upon
the voltage of the lights being changed and that they be positioned with twice as much
space between the strings as now.
Councilman Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Uphold the findings of the Architectural
Review Commission; 2) direct the Commission to work with the applicant to bring the lights into
conformance with those recommendations and direct the applicant to reduce the illumination by half
or more to a more tasteful level; 4) direct the Architectural Review Commission to periodically review
approved tree lighting applications. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote of
the Council.
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B. REOUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL REVIEW OF APPROVED SIGN PROGRAM FOR
OLIPHANT-LIZZA PROJECT AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF PORTOLA
AND HIGHWAY 111.
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report and gave the history of this project. He noted that
the original sign program was for signs facing Highway 111 to have individual channel
letters, and signs to the rear were to be sand blasted redwood. Colors approved for the
channel letter signs were blue, green, rust, ivory and black, with the tenants being allowed
to choose up to three of those colors. He added that the Vans sign was approved in blue
with a tennis shoe logo.
Councilmember Benson said it was her understanding that there was a condition that the
Council would look at the sign program before any signs went in.
Mr. Drell stated that once the original Vans sign went up, it was agreed it was not a good
sign and, therefore, a new sign was done. He added that the rest of the building would
have signs with individual channel letters in green, blue, or rust.
Councilman Crites said he had noticed that all the signs on the building were different
styles. He felt the restaurant sign was okay but felt the shoe sign was something Council
would never want to have.
MR. RICHARD OLIPHANT, 77-900 Avenue of the States, Palm Desert, spoke as owner
and developer of the building and stated when the lease was signed with Vans, it was
their responsibility to have the sign people design the sign in conformance with the City's
regulations. Because of the small space available for the Vans sign, the designer felt this
was the best they could come up with. The sign was submitted to the Architectural
Review Commission and was approved. However, when the sign was installed, he said
there were several people not pleased with it and wanted to make sure any other signs
that went in would have to meet a more extensive criteria.
The owner of Vans addressed Council and said signage was one of the most important
keys to success for small businesses and did not think anyone should be offended by his
sign. He said it was fine if the City wanted him to take his sign down as long as he was
paid for it.
Councilmember Benson stated that the Council did take the sign issue very seriously and
wanted to make sure the City looks nice.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, affirm the approved sign program. Motion
was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Councilman Kelly commented that he had visited Scottsdale, Arizona, and took pictures
of some of the commercial centers. He felt some of the signs really looked nice and did
designate what the stores were selling. He said some had specific colors used throughout
the entire center to ensure compatibility. He added that hopefilly the Architectural
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Review commission would look at the theme of each center at the beginning of the
review process and make sure all signs conform to that theme.
Councilman Crites addressed the owner of Vans and said Council had been working on
the sign issue for more than a decade. He said the Council was very aware that signage
is good for businesses and that good signage is important for sales.
C. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 91-1 (COOK
STREET ASSESSMENT DISTRICT).
Mayor Snyder noted that staff was requesting a continuance to the next meeting;
however, he said Dr. Peter Tynberg had requested that he be allowed to speak at this
time.
DR. PETER TYNBERG, 1599 Via Norte, Palm Springs, read a prepared statement
(attached hereto and made a part hereof as Exhibit "A") and asked that Council table
this matter and direct staff to prepare new district boundaries to include all properties
within the Cook Street corridor.
Mr. Altman stated this was merely to obtain consent from the City of Indian Wells and
the County of Riverside that the City of Palm Desert will act as lead agency in these
proceedings.
Mr. Folkers added that a meeting would be held the next day which would be very
specific as to what will be done.
Councilman Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of December 12, 1991.
Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
D. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF CIVIC CENTER SIGNAGE PROGRAM.
Mr. Yrigoyen reviewed the staff report, noting that Council had received an addendum
to the sign program which included several changes.
MR. DON RYPINSKI, Rypinski Design, Inc., gave a slide presentation which showed
the proposed signs. He offered to answer any questions.
Councilman Crites agreed that we need to get rid of the existing directory sign. He also
asked whether there was an immediate need to name the two Brothers' buildings.
Mayor Snyder responded that the Civic Center Committee was concerned that there be
a consensus of opinion in naming them and suggested having people submit names for
consideration.
Mr. Rypinski added that as a designer, when a program is being done on a building being
identified, you should look for a focal point. He felt the red arrows on the building were
very identifiable and perhaps the name should relate to those arrows.
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Upon question by Councilman Crites as to where the extra public art will go since it will
not fit in the second Brothers' building, Community Arts Manager Catherine Sass
responded that two of the pieces would be placed in the courtyard and that it had not
yet been decided where the others would go.
Councilman Wilson complimented the artist on the tastefully designed signage program.
However, he said he was concerned we may be overkilling the park with signs. He aid
if a developer came in with a sign program like this, the Council would probably cut it.
Rather than going in with a lot of signs and being criticized as not practicing what it
preaches, he suggested going slower and possibly scaling down the program.
Mr. Rypinski said he did not necessarily see all the signs having to go in. He
recommended doing the entry monument sign and some parking and key trail signs now
and waiting on the others.
MS. DIANNE FUNK stated this was before the Art -In -Public -Places Committee for
review. She said that she felt the change order implied there was a significant increase
in the contract because of work required by the Art -In -Public -Places Committee. She
wanted to go on record that this work had not been at the request of the Committee and
felt the Council should look into it.
Mayor Snyder noted that the sign being recommended by Rypinski to be placed by Public
Art had not been approved by the Public Art Subcommittee.
Mr. Yrigoyen said staff's recommendation was that Council approve the overall sign
program and approve the concept of the large Civic Center sign with the color as
proposed so staff could begin placement of the signs.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the concept of the signage program
as presented at this time, said program to include comments made during this meeting relative to
phasing in and that this program does not include signage for the public art pieces. Motion was
seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
None
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Mr. Erwin requested a Closed Session at the appropriate time pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(a) and (b), pending and potential litigation, and
Personnel.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
1. Consideration of Sending a Representative to the Annual International Sister
Cities Conference in Christchurch, New Zealand, in March, 1992 (Mayor Pro-
Tempore Richard S. Kelly).
Councilman Crites stated that when the President of the New Zealand Sister
Cities Association was here some time ago, he asked if Palm Desert would be
willing to send a representative to the International Sister Cities Conference
which for the first time was being held in New Zealand. He said this year's
conference was about cities being able to deal with global and environmental
issues. He suggested that Councilman Kelly be Palm Desert's representative
and said he would be able to not only bring back information but could also
speak about the environmental accomplishments Palm Desert has made as a
city.
Councilman Kelly stated that if the Council wished to send him, he would also
ask that the City pay the expenses for his wife, Mary Helen, to attend with him.
He said the main purpose was to go as the representative and diplimat from
Palm Desert and that Mary Helen was not only an excellent representative
herself but would make it much more enjoyable for him to attend functions and
events that will be for husbands and wives. He said she was a very dedicated
person who works very hard to represent the City.
Councilman Wilson said he felt the rationale was all very good but said he
would feel more comfortable deferring this decision and directing the City
Attorney to look into the legalities of paying expenses for a non -City person.
Mr. Erwin responded that this had already been looked at in the past and that
it was a discretionary decision on the part of the Council.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize sending both Mayor Pro-Tempore
and Mrs. Richard Kelly to the Annual International Sister Cities Conference in Christchurch, New
Zealand, in March, 1992, and approve the payment of expenses for both individuals. Motion was
seconded by Benson.
Councilmember Benson agreed with Kelly that it would be good to have Mary
Helen attend with him because of some of the functions he will be attending.
Upon question by Crites regarding Councilman Kelly's plans to also visit Palm
Desert's Sister City of Gisborne, Kelly responded that he felt he should spend
extra time with Gisborne, which had been using natural gas operated buses for
ten years, and that he was very anxious to talk to them.
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Mayor Snyder called for the vote. Motion carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Kelly
ABSTAINING.
2. Councilman Crites introduced Mr. Mark Chapman, who he said was the
equivalent of Vice President in Charge of Faculty at the Polytechnic College
in Gisborne, New Zealand. He said he would be looking and evaluating the
business programs being used at College of the Desert. He added that their
programs were much more skill oriented and more turned towards preparing
people to work in various industries.
3. Request for Appropriation for Signing and Lighting of Existing Public Art
Sculptures (Councilman Buford A. Crites).
Councilman Crites noted a report in the packets and recommended approval.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve an amount not to exceed $10,000
and authorize staff to proceed with improvements to provide signing and lighting of artworks, with a
condition that the signs and public art logo will be approved by the Art -In -Public -Places Subcommittee
and the Civic Arts Committee and brought back to the Council for review. Motion was seconded by
Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
o City Council Committee Reports:
1. Councilman Wilson stated that he felt something everyone knows but sometimes
overlooks in a Council/Manager form of government is that requests for
information should be channeled through the City Manager. He said all of the
Councilmembers were guilty of overlooking this and sometimes made requests
of staff. He said he carpooled to South Coast Air Quality Management District
meetings with a Councilmember from Redlands who told him that according
to Dallas Holmes of Best, Best, & Krieger, there was a law on the books that
says if a Councilmember directs a staff member other than the City Manager
to do something and that person is injured or stresses out, that Councilmember
is liable for damages. He asked that the City Attorney look into this. If true,
he questioned whether the Councilmembers would be liable if they asked their
secretary to do something for them. He asked if they would personally liable
or if they would be protected by the City.
Mr. Erwin said he would look into this and advise Council immediately.
Councilman Wilson said he felt Council should be cognizant of putting demands
on staff and should make an effort to try and follow the procedure of going
through the City Manager who can distribute the work more evenly.
2. Mayor Snyder reported that a group of approximately 1800 individuals arrived
in Palm Desert last Saturday to attend a conference put on by the Industrial
Developers Research Council (IDRC). He publicly thanked Paul Shillcock for
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his efforts and time to bring Palm Desert notoriety. He added that because of
Mr. Shillcock's efforts, Palm Desert was now very well known throughout the
States.
XIV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
MRS. RUTH GEIBERSON, 44-875 San Antonio Circle, Palm Desert, asked when Council
would be considering the Felidae item.
Councilman Crites responded that this would considered at the 7:00 p.m. portion during the
Parking Authority meeting.
Upon motion by Crites, second by Benson, and unanimous vote of the City Council, Mayor
Snyder recessed the meeting at 6:05 p.m. for dinner. 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
None
XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION OF FIVE-, TEN-, AND FIFTEEN -YEAR EMPLOYEE SERVICE
AWARDS.
Mayor Snyder noted the following employees had earned service awards:
Five -Year - Ed Marksbury, Malaquis Ramos, Sergio Rosas, Catherine Sass, Elinor
Thompson, John Wohlmuth
Ten -Year - Raul Dominguez, Phil Joy, Stephen Smith, Ken Weller
Fifteen -Year - Larry McAllister, Joe Pudis
He presented the awards to those employees present and congratulated them on behalf
of the entire City Council.
B. REORGANIZATION OF THE CITY COUNCIL.
1. SELECTION OF MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO-TEMPORE.
Mayor Snyder declared the offices of Mayor and Mayor Pro-Tempore vacant and
asked the City Clerk to conduct the selection of said officers.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT .'Y COUNCIL MF.FTING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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Mrs. Gilligan declared the nominations open for the office of Mayor.
Councilman Crites nominated Councilman Kelly for the office of Mayor.
Councilman Snyder moved that a unanimous ballot be cast for Councilman Kelly. Motion was
seconded by Wilson and carried by a 4-0-1 vote, with Kelly ABSTAINING.
Mrs. Gilligan declared the nominations open for the office of Mayor Pro-Tempore.
Councilman Wilson nominated Councilmember Benson for the office of Mayor Pro-Tempore
and moved that a unanimous ballot be cast. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by a 4-1 vote,
with Benson ABSTAINING.
2. COMMENTS FROM NEWLY SELECTED MAYOR AND MAYOR PRO-
TEMPORE.
Mayor Kelly thanked his colleagues for their confidence in him and for giving him
another opportunity to serve as Mayor. He said he had attended a conference today
and that a Councilmember from another city had asked what kind of Council Palm
Desert had. He said he responded that Palm Desert really had an outstanding
Council that works well together. Even when members disagree on issues, they are
still able to get along together and share the work load. He said he would do
everything he could to do a good job. He also expressed appreciation to Councilman
Snyder for the job he had done as Mayor for the past year.
Councilman Crites stated that when someone leaves a position, everyone says thank
you and that they know what that person has been through during that term of office.
Perhaps more than any other City Council, he said this Council really did know the
amount of work involved in serving as Mayor. He said the Mayor acts as the
lightning rod and gets the phone calls. In adition, the Mayor is called upon to be
the spokesman and to chair the meetings and make things happen. He said the
Council wished to express its sincere and heartfelt thanks for a job well done.
However, he said Councilman Snyder had one task left to do. He gave him a
bouquet of flowers and asked that he present them to his wife, Harriet, with the
Council's thanks for all of her support.
Councilmember Benson stated she was very pleased to serve as Mayor Pro-Tempore
and was willing to do anything she could to help Mayor Kelly for the betterment of
Palm Desert.
XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL OF STREET VACATION - CATALINA WAY AND
SAN NICHOLAS.
Mr. Folkers reviewed the staff report and recommendation.
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Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR of or
OPPOSED to this request. None was offered, and he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 91-130, vacating
a portion of the rights -of -way known as Catalina Way and San Nicholas Avenue. Motion was seconded
by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE TERMINATION OF A
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT AND ASSOCIATED PRECISE
PLAN/CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT INVOLVING A SENIOR HOUSING PROJECT
ON THE NORTH SIDE OF CATALINA WAY WEST OF JOSLYN COVE SENIOR
CENTER (CABLE & RYLEE, INC., APPLICANT).
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that the project involved a three -acre parcel
adjacent to the Joslyn Cove Communities Senior Center project. He said Cable & Rylee
had proposed that if the City provided the land at no cost, they would build a 60-unit
project with all units affordable to low-income seniors. He said their basic obligation was
to obtain commitments for construction and long-term financing but that they had been
unable to do so. He noted the applicant had almost three years since the original
agreement was signed and that no evidence had been brought to the City by the
developer indicating he was any closer to getting financing now than he was three years
ago. Because the land was purchased by the City and had been vacant since purchase,
it was important for the City to have something built in order to meet its need for
affordable senior housing. He added that the Planning Commission had unanimously
recommended that unless Cable & Rylee can prove its ability to perform under the terms
of the Development Agreement, the agreement should be terminated in order to allow
other qualified developers an opportunity to build the project.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR of or
OPPOSED to this request.
MR. JOH McGAY spoke on behalf of Stan Cody, from whom the City acquired the
property. He said Mr. Cody had spent a lot of money in this partnership with Mr.
Wendell Rylee, and he asked for a 30-day extension, within which time this could be
worked out between Mr. Cody and Mr. Rylee. He added that Mr. Rylee did have the
financing to do the project.
With no further testimony offered, Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites asked if Council could take the action as recommended by staff and
stipulate that it take affect in 30 days if staff has not received whatever it considers
appropriate guarantees of financing.
Mr. Erwin responded that action requested was passage of an ordinance, which requires
a second reading prior to adoption. If Council took the recommended action, second
reading of the ordinance would not take place until December 12th, and the ordinance
would not take affect until 30 days after that.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT __Y 1 COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 661 to second
reading, rescinding Ordinance No. 538 and terminating Development Agreement 88-1. Motion was
seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
C. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A PRECISE PLAN TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION
OF A 3,120 SQUARE FOOT AUTO SERVICE FACILITY ON THE SOUTH SIDE
OF FRED WARING DRIVE, 680 FEET EAST OF HIGHWAY 111 (ECONO LUBE
N' TUNE, APPLICANT).
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that this was the last parcel of what was the
La Posada development (behind Toys R Us). He said this would be adjacent to the Palm
Valley Channel on the east and adjacent to the Toys R Us loading dock on the
southwest.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR of this
request.
MR. LARRY BELL, project manager for Econo Lube N' Tune, 4911 Birch Street,
Newport Beach, said Econo Lube N' Tune had been in business for 18 years and
currently operated almost 200 shops nationwide. He said one existing facility was in
Indio adjacent to Alpha Beta, Bank of America, and Bank of the Desert and blended in
perfectly with the center. He said their facilities were clean and provided fast service.
He reviewed the proposed facility on Fred Waring Drive, noting that hours of operation
would be 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. He added that it would include an extensive recycling
program for almost all items.
Mayor Kelly invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this request, and none was offered. He
declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites noted that he had called up this project for review and said he felt
there were two issues involved:
1) Appropriateness of the facility at this location He said he had no doubt the business
did clean and efficient work. However, the letter in the packets from DSL raised
questions which he felt Council should review. It discussed things the City had
required of them and how they felt the same conditions should be placed on this
business. Although he agreed Econo Lube N' Tune was a good business, he did not
feel this was a good location. He also expressed concern with being able to see the
service bays from Fred Waring Drive while driving by.
2) Setback
Even if the use is compatible, Councilman Crites felt the amount of setback for the
facility is significantly lower than Toys R Us and the amount of setback on the north
side of the wash where the Marshall's center is.
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Councilmember Benson said she had some of the same concerns. She said she had
driven by a similar facility in Cathedral City and although it looked okay from Ramon
Road, from the other side one could see the open bays and cars up on racks. Being in
a mixed commercial center was okay, but this would probably mean there would be cars
waiting to be picked up while their owners are out shopping. She agreed this was not
the right location and that Council should be considering the views of DS-L as well.
Councilman Wilson stated his initial reaction when seeing this on the Agenda was similar
to views expressed by the other Councilmembers. However, remembering the Goodyear
Tire Center which was in a highly visible area with bays, etc. mitigated some of those
concerns. He felt the DSL argument was a valid one. He asked staff if it was possible
to berm or screen the eastern view from Fred Waring Drive to see if the garage -look
could be mitigated somewhat.
Mr. Drell responded that it could be bermed. He said Econo Lube N' Tune had agreed
to restore that part of the original landscape plan surrounding the property to screen it
on the Channel side.
Councilman Wilson asked if a screened wall could be put on the east side, and
Councilman Kelly said he felt an eight -foot wall would look worse than the bays. He said
he would prefer to have trees. Councilman Wilson suggested a six-foot wall instead, and
Mr. Drell responded that a six-foot wall with trees in front would be better.
Councilman Snyder said he had no doubt this was a fine organization and that a nice
facility would be built. However, the City was very concerned with the DSL project and
required a lot more landscaping and other mitigation measures. He said he would like
to see Econo Lube N' Tune at this location but felt it would better out in the Cook
Street area instead.
Councilman Kelly said this was the first project he had seen that had a recycle program.
He said all the Councilmembers had some concerns because of all of the stipulations and
work done on the DSL project. However, he questioned what else could be put back
in the corner, noting that if he were a businessman, he would not want to put his business
in that corner. He felt the Goodyear Store in the Palm Desert Town Center looked nice
whenever he drove by and said there were ways to landscape such businesses to make
them look good. If Council were to approve this, he said he would ask that rather than
a recycle program, a complete waste management plan be implemented. He said the
City's requirement to reach 29% recycling by 1995 and 50% by the year 2000 meant the
Council needed to look at reduction, reuse, and recycling.
Councilman Wilson said he would support the program and that Mr. DRell had made
a compelling argument. He said he used the Goodyear Tire Center and found it
convenient. He felt it was better to have facilities like this conveniently located where
the public is rather than having to send the residents out to the far stretches of the City.
He added that next to Goodyear was the car wash, which he did not find objectionable.
20
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REGULAR PALM DESERT ITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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Councilman Crites agreed these types of businesses were needed close to the center of
the community. He said maybe if this was located in the interior of the project instead
of next to Fred Waring Drive, it would be better. In addition, he said the existing
Goodyear Store was located at a perpendicular angle to the street, which meant a lesser
view of the service bays, while Econo Lube N' Tune would be right in the center of his
view screen while driving down Fred Waring Drive.
Mayor Kelly disagreed with having this business at the Cook Street center because he
would not want to drive out there every time he needed an oil change.
At the request of the applicant, Mayor Kelly reopened the public hearing.
Mr. Bell stated he felt customers would be able to visit both the Toys R Us store and
Pizza Hut while using his facility. He said he realized this was not an ideal location when
he first began the process, but customers would also be able to shop at the DSL project
across the street. He said the landscape plans included a six-foot screened wall along
the entire length and that it would be a drought -tolerant landscape plan. He said they
would have screened walls along both Fred Waring Drive and the Channel. He added
that the Architectural Review Commission had cut the signage in half. He said people
driving along Fred Waring Drive east would not be able to see all of the service bays at
the same time and that Econo Lube N' Tune would take over the responsibility for
maintenance of the landscaping. He added that he would be happy to come up with a
waste management plan as requested by Mayor Kelly.
Upon question by Councilman Crites, Mr. Bell responded that he had not met with DSL
representatives since making changes to the plans and had not read the letter included
in the packets. However, he indicated he would be willing to do so now.
Councilman Crites asked if Mr. Bell would be willing to stake out locations of the service
bays and flag the height of the business so Councilmembers can go out and look at the
site itself.
Mr. Bell responded that he would have to look into what the costs would be to do it
because of the amount of money Econo Lube N' Tune had already put into this project.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Wilson said he liked what Councilman Crites said and felt this matter should
be continued and that the applicant be directed to meet with DSL to discuss the latest
plans.
Councilman Crites said he would like to look at the four corners as well as the location
of the •service bays and height of buildings. As long as DSL finds this project
unacceptable, he said he would not be able to approve it. He added that he felt DSL
had made a tremendous investment in the community and that its concerns should be
considered.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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Councilman Wilson moved to continue this matter to the meeting of December 12, 1991, and
to direct the applicant to both meet with DSL representatives to discuss the most recent plans and to
also put out stakes on the property so that Council can get an idea of the proposed building heights,
setbacks, etc.
Councilman Snyder said he felt a continuance was a good idea and that the Council owed
DSL some consideration because of the many conditions placed on its approval. In
addition, he said he wanted to know what would be done along Fred Waring Drive and
the Channel and asked for clarification at the next meeting.
Mayor Kelly suggested adding to the motion a better layout of the landscaping plans.
Councilman Snyder stated he would second the motion with an amendment that the applicant
indicate what is being proposed for the landscaping and screening of the project. Councilman Wilson
accepted the amendment
Mr. Bell stated he would make every effort to set up a meeting with DSL. He added
that the problem with putting in stakes was that he did not know how he would show the
screening of the service bays.
Councilman Wilson responded that all Council wanted to know was where the bays will
be in relation to the store. In addition, he asked the applicant to put a pole in the
ground at the exact height of the building.
Mayor Kelly asked staff to provide any assistance possible, and Mr. Drell responded that
staff would do so.
Mayor Kelly called for the vote, and the motion carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XIX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - D
None
XX. ADJOURNMENT
Councilman Wilson moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:25 p.m. to Closed Session, said Closed
Session to immediately follow adjournment of the Redevelopment Agency and Parking Authority
meetings. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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REGULAR PALM DESER- CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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Mayor Kelly reconvened the meeting at 9:28 p.m. and noted the following action on Consent
Calendar Item E.
E. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#180) by Peter Scialdone in the Amount of $400.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, deny the Claim and instruct the City Clerk
to so notify the Claimant. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
With Council concurrence, Mayor Kelly adjourned the meeting at 9:30 p.m.
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN, CITY' LERK/P.I.O.
CITY OF PALM DESERT, LIFORNIA
RICHAkD S. KELLY, MAYOR
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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EXHIBIT "A"
Council
.t' of Palm Desert
:"13 Fred Waring Drive
t3im Desert, Ca
November, 14 1991
:•.ar Council ':embers:
I am the owner of property in Thousand Palms whose land
.s within the proposed boundaries for the Cook Street
Interchange Assessment District. I agree that ;,his project
.s necessary and will provide benefit to my property and to
all other property within the 'Cook Street Corridor." How -
e'er the proposed boundaries are not equitable and violate
the Community Facilities Assessment District as described in
-t.e California Code. Because the boundaries do not include
all of those who directly benefit from the project within
t•.is corridor, I ask that the boundaries be revised.
Over the past two years,I have attended meetings held by
-.he City of Palm Desert to create this assessment district.
At the last meeting in September, we were told that this
issue would not be brought before the City Council until
after January 1st. At every meeting that was held, property
owners recommended including within the assessment district
property south of the Whitewater Wash within the Cook Street
Corridor. The City of Palm Desert has ignored this
recommendation repeatedly. We property owners understand the
City's reluctance in assessing its own voters, but a
community facilities district must include all those who
benefit by that facility. In the first ten years most of the
traffic using the Cook Street Interchange will derive from
the populated areas in eastern Palm Desert and western Indian
Wells south of the Whitewater Wash within the Cook Street
Corridor. Arguments advanced by the City of Palm Desert to
exclude these areas because of the use of Measure A funds or
previous development fees are not reasonable. The City of
Palm Desert's own consultants have told me that these
arguments would not be sufficient to justify the City's
position in court if this district were challenged.
As these properties south of the Whitewater Wash are
located at some distance from the proposed Cook Street
Interchange, they would be assessed at a much lower rate than
properties nearer to the interchange. .A residence south of
the Whitewater Wash might have a yearly assessment of S25 and
a business might pay S1OC. These are relatively small fees
as compared to the S350 per year assessments on each acre of
•.scant land, where no use of the interchange will le derived.
In addition, certain properties located north of the
Whitewater Wash have also been excluded from the proposed
^:strict. Politically active property owners such as the
`larriott's Desert. Springs and the Sunrise Corporation have
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REGULAR PALM DESERT I'Y COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 14, 1991
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EXHIBIT "A"
"cut their own deal" with the City of Palm Desert. This is
also in violation of the Community Facilities District Act.
We ask that all properties, north and south of the Whitewater
Wash, be included equally within this Assessment District.
I ask that you table the present proposal and direct
City officials to prepare new district boundaries to include
all properties within the Cook Street Corridor. The
assessments within the new boundaries would vary in relation
to proximity to the interchange and in relation to land use.
This would be equitable to all property owners. The present
plan violates the California Code and will lead to
litigation.
Respectfully,
a?eZw /`i
Peter Tynberg M.D.
25