HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992-02-13MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 1992
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I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Kelly convened the meeting at 4:00 p.m.
II. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman Buford A. Crites
III. INVOCATION - Councilman Walter H. Snyder
IV. ROLL CALL
Present: Excused Absence:
Mayor Pro-Tem Jean M. Benson
Councilman Buford A. Crites
Councilman Walter H. Snyder
Mayor Richard S. Kelly
Also Present:
Councilman S. Roy Wilson
(arrived at 7:00 p.m.)
Bruce A. Altman, City Manager
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, City Clerk/P.I.O.
Ramon A. Diaz, ACM/Director of Community Development
Richard J. Folkers, ACM/Director of Public Works
Carlos L. Ortega, ACM/Director of Redevelopment
Paul W. Shillcock, ACM/Director of Economic Development
Paul Gibson, City Treasurer/Director of Finance
Pat Conlon, Director of Building & Safety
Wayne Ramsey, Acting Director of Code Compliance
David Millheim, Director of Human Resources
Larry McAllister, General Services Director
V. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 23, 1992.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Nos.
WR0103, WR0105, and WR0112.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. SCHEDULE OF INVtSTMENTS as of November 30, 1991.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. STATEMENT OF CASH TRANSACTIONS dated November 30, 1991.
Rec: Receive and file.
E. MINUTES of the Civic Arts Committee Meetings of October 21, November 12, and
December 9, 1991.
Rec: Receive and file.
F. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#1841 by Gail Weisler in an Unspecified Amount.
Rec: Deny the Claim and instruct the City Clerk to so advise the Claimant.
G. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#18551 by Anita Derleth for Indemnity (Related to Claim
#149).
Rec: Deny the Claim and instruct the City Clerk to so advise the Claimant.
H. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#1861 by Rand?11 R. Lamere in the Amount of $24 '.60.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Deny the Cl:. ,ecause the in: t occurrt
the jurisdictional limits of the City o.. :n Desert; 2) 1 A the City cle: _o
so notify the Claimant.
I. REQUEST FOR REFUND of Prior Year Business License Fee(' (Stark Construction
Company, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the refund of $40.00 (Liter, : i umber 016527) for
fiscal year 1990-91, issued to Stark Construction Company.
J. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Map for Tract 19847-3 (Marvin J. McConnell
and Eileen L. McConnell, Applicants).
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 92-10, :::proving Tract 19847-
3 and the bonds and agreements relating thereto.
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K. REQUEST FOR RELEASE of Subdivision Improvement Security for Tract Map 24539
(Triad Pacific Development Corporation, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the subdivision improvements as complete and
authorize the City Clerk to reduce the amount of the subdivision improvement
securities to ten percent of their value as maintenance security for a one-year
maintenance period.
L. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Joint Use Agreement along Fred Waring Drive with
the Southern California Edison Company (Contract No. 00-605).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute the subject agreement with
the Southern California Edison Company.
M. RESOLUTION NO. 92-11 - 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 Public Works that have been Microfilmed.
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
N. REQUESTS FOR APPROVAL of Charitable Contribution Committee
Recommendations Relative to the McCallum Theatre and the Coachella Valley
Mountains Conservancy.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the recommendations of the Outside Agency
Contribution Committee for contributions to the McCallum Theatre of the Stars
Project in the amount of $20,000 and for the Coachella Valley Mountains
Conservancy in the amount of $5,000 and approve the additional appropriations
in the amount of $25,000 to Account #110-4116-3215.
O. REOUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Advertise and Call for Bids for Curb, Gutter,
and Cross Gutter Repairs (Contract No. 00-606).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to advertise and call for bids for
the subject project.
P. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Engineering Services for the Toro Peak
Storm Drain Project (Contract No. 00-597).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to enter into an agreement with
Sanborn -Webb, Inc. in the amount of $19,200.00,and authorize a ten percent
contingency in the amount of $1, 920.00.
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Q. REQUIST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Engineering 'ices for the San Luis
Rey Avenue Storm Drain Project (Contract No. 00-596).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to enter into an agreement with BSI
Consultants, Inc. in the amount of $19,310.00 and authorize a ten percent
contingency in the amount of $1,931.00.
R. REQUEST FOR UXTENSION of Highway 74 Landscape Maintenance Agreement
(Contract No. 00-413).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize a five -month extension for the subject contract
with Environmental Care, Inc. in the amount of $4,917.35 ($938.47 per month).
S. REOUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for the El Paseo Median Improvements
(Contract No. 00-589).
Rec: By Minute Motion, award a contract for the subject project to Matich
Corporation in the amount of $118,289.00 and authorize a ten percent
contingency in the amount of $11, 828.90.
T. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of People Mover Demonstration Program
(Contract No. 00-621).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize Barry Goodman to file an application on behalf
of the City of Palm Desert for federal funding for People Mover Demonstration
Program and authorize an expenditure in conjunction with this application in
accordance with The Goodman Corporation's contract dated February 4, 1992.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Crites, the Consent Calendar was approved as presented
by unanimous vote of the Council.
VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
None
VII. RESOLUTIONS
None
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VIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 667 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 9.24PERTAINING TO
NOISE CONTROL.
Mr. Altman stated that staffs recommendation was to table this ordinance at this time
because additional work was being done on it.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Crites, Ordinance No. 667, was TABLED by unanimous
vote of the Council.
B. QRDINANCE NO. 668 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, MAKING CALIFORNIA CODE OF CIVIL
PROCEDURE SECTION 1094.6 APPLICABLE TO ALL FINAL ADMINISTRATIVE
DECISIONS OR ORDERS WHICH ARE SUBJECT TO REVIEW UNDER
CALIFORNIA CODE OF CIVIL PROCEDURE SECTION 1094.5.
Mr. Erwin noted the memorandum in the packets and stated that although the City
currently had this procedure on the books, it was in resolution form and was enacted a
long time ago. Putting it in ordinance form would make it easier to find and would also
clarify the matter of final decisions when notice is to be given.
Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 668 to second
reading. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
For Adoption;
None
IX. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. PETITIONS FROM LA ROCCA FOR DEANNEXATION.
Mr. Diaz noted that Council had received copies of petitions filed by residents of
LaRocca requesting deannexation from the City of Palm Desert and annexation into the
City of Indian Wells. He said he believed petitions had also been filed with the City of
Indian Wells requesting annexation into that city.
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He said that staffs recommendation at this time was that if Council wished for this to
proceed: 1) that the cost of such process and all applications shall be borne by the
residents of LaRocca; 2) that no costs for this process or excessive amount of staff time
be devoted to the procedure.
He said his preference was that LaRocca remain in the City of Palm Desert; however,
deannexation would not present any problems with boundaries, etc.
Councilman Crites questioned the financial contribution of that piece of property to Palm
Desert.
Mr. Diaz responded that LaRocca was within the redevelopment project area to pay for
the Palm Valley Storm Channel, so deannexation would not change the amount of
property tax and increment that would come to the City of Palm Desert. He said he was
unsure of the exact financial impact of the deannexation but that staff would come back
at the next meeting with a report.
MR. WALTER McINTYRE, 74-849 Chateau Circle, Palm Desert, spoke on behalf of
the residents of LaRocca and presented a letter to the Council (on file and of record in
the City Clerk's Office). He noted that the only way to get to this development was to
go through Indian Wells on Cook Street. In addition, the Post Office had requested that
they use the Indian Wells address for mailing purposes. He added that there were also
problems in selling their homes because if people requested listings of property in Palm
Desert, LaRocca would not be included.
He noted there was a median on Cook Street from Highway 111 south that was planned
to stop at the LaRocca development and then continue again on the other side of the
development, and he worked with officials in both cities to get that median installed the
entire length.
Mr. McIntyre closed his remarks and stated that residents felt there were compelling
reasons to begin the process of deannexation.
Councilman Crites asked what potential changes or problems there would be with giving
the City of Indian Wells the entire frontage on Cook Street and expressed concern that
they might be able to gate off Cook Street.
Mayor Kelly responded that this could be addressed in the staff report.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, refer this matter to staff for report and
recommendation. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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B. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
1. Palmer CableVision Update.
Mr. Ortega reported that staff was continuing to keep track of Senate Bill 12
which would clarify some of the issues regarding regulation.
a. Request for Council Direction Relative to Public Access Channel (Mayor
Richard S. Kelly).
Mayor Kelly stated that he had met with Steve Merritt of Palmer
Cablevision to discuss a public access channel. He said Mr. Merritt was
very interested and agreed to go ahead with some type of public access
channel and studio at this time.
Mayor Kelly suggested that a committee be formed with representation
from the Senior Center, College of the Desert, Library, etc. to work with
Palmer Cablevision to set up an public access station.
He said he was bringing this to the attention of the Council because this
will take a certain amount of staff time to put it together and get it off the
ground. He asked for Council approval of the use of staff time and
direction for him to proceed as outlined above.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the use of staff time in helping to set
up a public access station and direct the Mayor to proceed in the direction as outlined. Motion was
seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
2. Update on Tri-Cities Sports Facility.
Mr. Diaz showed the draft Environmental Impact Report document and series
of exhibits attached to it. He said the following would take place between now
and start of construction:
- Review period for the Environmental Impact Report will start February 14th
and will go until March 15th;
- Hearing on the project will be held before the Planning Commission;
- Discussion before Council;
- Design contract with working drawings;
- Authorization to seek bids;
- Begin construction, implementing all mitigation measures indicated in the report.
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He publicly thanked Mr. Rudy Acosta of the Public Works Department for his
assistance in getting information whenever it was needed. He added that
construction was expected to begin in late April or early May.
3. Status of Date Palm Grove.
Mr. Shillcock stated that since the last meeting he had met with the architect
and individuals proposing to develop the date palm grove and presented all of
staffs comments and recommendations. He said they were in the process of
redoing the conceptual site plan, which should be before Council within the next
several weeks.
XL CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE AND CALL FOR BIDS FOR
FURNISHINGS FOR THE CIVIC CENTER EXPANSION, CONTRACT NO. 00-603
(Continued from the Meeting of January 23, 1992).
Mr. Altman stated that a new report and recommendation from the Civic Center Steering
Committee had been distributed to Council.
Councilman Crites stated he had just received the report earlier that day, had not had
a chance to review it, and was not willing to vote on the matter at this time.
Councilmember Benson reported that after the last City Council meeting, staff took the
original request of $76,830and cut it down to $39,352. Then she and Councilman Snyder
went through it and cut out additional items, bringing the request down to $34,705. She
said what was being purchased was mostly shelves, office equipment, computer tables,
etc., things the employees have needed but have been unable to purchase because of
space limitations.
Councilman Snyder stated that holding this matter until the next meeting would cause
problems as far as timing because the new buildings are scheduled to be completed in
April.
Councilman Crites stated he still was not convinced of the need for all of the items being
requested.
Councilmember Benson stated that the majority of the furniture was for those offices that
do not currently have anything to move to the new building. She added that she was
convinced that what was left in the request was necessary.
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Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to advertise
and call for bids to furnish and install various furnishings for the City Hall expansion expected to be
completed this spring, and appropriate $34,705 from the Unallocated Reserve to Capital Office
Equipment, Account No. 110-4159-4040. Motion was seconded by Snyder.
Mayor Kelly stated that on the basis of review of the requested furnishings by two
Councilmembers, he would be voting in favor.
Mayor Kelly called for the vote. Motion carried by a 3-1-1 vote, with Councilman Crites
voting NO and Councilman Wilson ABSENT.
B. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Amendment #4 to Cove Public Safety Commission
Joint Powers Agreement, Contract No. 00-316-4 (Continued from the Meeting of January
23, 1992).
Mr. Altman stated that this matter was continued from the last meeting and that
additional language had been drafted by the City Attorney to mitigate Councilman Crites'
concerns. He added that Council would have to amend the agreement and take it back
to the Cove Commission and then to each city.
Councilman Crites stated he felt this was an improvement to the way it was originally.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute
Amendment #4 to the Cove Public Safety Commission Joint Powers Agreement (Contract No. 00-
316-4), with language as indicated in the staff report added to the agreement regarding approval of
programs. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XII. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE REGULATING FOOD SALES
FROM VENDING VEHICLES.
Mr. Ramsey reviewed the staff report, noting that this had been brought up last spring
and was tabled because staff could not come up with a definitive answer. He said several
complaints had been received from a business in the City relative to food vending trucks
parking at the rear of his sandwich shop during the lunch period, and staff had looked
at ways to control these vending trucks in the commercial districts. He added that a
letter had also been received from the Desert Sands Unified School District asking the
City to take action to regulate these in the vicinity of the schools. He reviewed the
ordinance and offered to answer any questions.
Upon question by Councilman Snyder, Mr. Ramsey responded that the Cities of Indio
and Cathedral City both had ordinances regulating these vehicles, although Cathedral
City's was not quite as restrictive.
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MR. PAUL CAMPBELL, 73-910 El Paseo, President of th :.1 Paseo Business
Association, stated that the Association had not had an oppo: ity to review this
ordinance and asked that it be given an opportunity to do so prior to any Council action.
Councilman Crites stated that the ordinance would require two readings before adoption.
He suggested that it be passed to second reading at this time but that the second reading
be held until the Association has the opportunity to look at the ordinance and make any
suggestions or modifications.
Mr. Campbell agreed and expressed appreciation on behalf of the Association.
Councilman Crites moved to: 1) Waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 669 to second
reading, regulating food vending vehicles and deleting Section 10.48.120 of the Municipal Code, with
second reading of the ordinance to be held until Council receives input from the El Paseo Business
Association; 2) waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 92-12, establishing regulatory business
permit fees for food vending vehicles. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote
of the Council.
B. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF ORDINANCE REGULATING FOOD SALES
FROM PUSHCARTS.
Mr. Ramsey stated that this item was similar to the ordinance regulating food sales from
vending vehicles; however, this would regulate food sales from the hand pushed carts.
He said the City of Indio had a moratorium on these vehicles and did not allow any more
in the City.
Councilmember Benson commented that she had received complaints from the schools
relative to this type of vehicle.
MR. PAUL CAMPBELL, 73-910 El Paseo, asked that second reading of this ordinance
also be held until the El Paseo Business Association has a chance to review it. He stated
that in the past the Association has taken the stand against food stands outside of
establishments and said they would appreciate an opportunity to review the ordinance.
Councilman Crites moved to: 1) Waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 670 to second
reading, regulating food sales from pushcarts, with second reading of the ordinance to be held until
Council receives input from the El Paseo Business Association; 2) waive further reading and adopt
Resolution No. 92-13, establishing regulatory business permit fees for food sales from pushcarts.
Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Councilman Crites asked that the Chamber of Commerce also be notified of first reading
of the ordinance to see if they might have comments.
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C. REPORT ON ABC (ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE CONTROL) FUNDING.
Mr. Ramsey reviewed the staff report, noting that staff was notified by Lt. Janes of the
Sheriff Department that the local ABC office in Rancho Mirage would remain. He said
the only cutback would be one supervisor position, with field personnel remaining at the
level it is currently.
No Council action was necessary or taken on this item.
D. REPORT ON EAGLE MOUNTAIN LANDFILL PROPOSAL.
Mr. Altman noted there was a report in the packets from Environmental Conservation
Manager John Wohlmuth recommending that the City continue to take an aggressive
stance on the Eagle Mountain Landfill Project Environmental Impact Report.
No Council action was necessary or taken on this item.
XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Highway 74 Bus Crash
Emergency Services Coordinator Ken Weller reported on the bus crash which
occurred outside the City limits on Highway 74 on January 31st with children
traveling to a church camp and how City staff had reacted to it very positively.
He said City Hall provided information to parents looking for their children and
tracked where the children went, such as the different hospitals. He added that
everyone had worked together very well.
He noted that he was asked to go to the Coast Hills Community Church in
Laguna Nigel on Sunday and accepted a plaque presented to the City in
appreciation of the staffs efforts. He presented the plaque to Mayor Kelly.
Mayor Kelly commended staff for their efforts and said there had been great
reaction from the parents of children involved, including letters to the editor.
On behalf of the entire City Council, he expressed pride in the City Manager
and staff alike.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Mr. Erwin requested a Closed Session at the appropriate time.
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C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
1. Investment Committee
Councilmember Benson stated that due to a number of telephone calls and letters
received by Council regarding investments, she would like to see the Investment
Committee changed to consist of the City Manager, Assistant City
Manager/ Director of Redevelopment, City Attorney, City Treasurer, Mayor, Mayor
Pro-Tem, and a member of the community with financial or investment
background. She felt this would provide a link to the community and continuity
for future years.
Councilman Snyder expressed concern that much of the business discussed by
the investment committee pertains to City business, and he said he would like
to give the matter more consideration before proceeding with changes.
Mayor Kelly suggested that this matter be referred to the City Attorney for review
and recommendation.
Council concurred.
2. Piano Picnic Table and Rental of Pieces of Seward Johnson Collection for Use
in Art Tours During SpringFest '92.
Councilman Crites moved to add these items to the Agenda for discussion. Motion was
seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Community Arts Manager Catherine Sass reviewed the staff report regarding the
piano picnic table, noting that it had bee- reviewed by tr= Civic Ars Committee
and Art -In -Public -Places Comm ee, b. of whit recc ended nova. She
said the proposal was for $2,00..vhich J1d include fa ation ai: .istaliL m.
She added that the actual cost was not kr1uwn at this time ut that thL artist would
absorb the difference between the $2,000 and the actual cost. She stated that it
would be made from sheet metal and noted that staff had several concerns as
outlined in the report.
Councilmember Benson asked whether these concerns would be addressed. Ms.
Sass responded that they would not be addressed if the table was made from sheet
metal as proposed.
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Councilman Snyder said he felt this should be reviewed by the Civic Center
Steering Committee since the table would be placed in the Civic Center Park.
Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, refer this matter to the Civic Center Steering
Committee for review and recommendation. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by unanimous
vote of the Council.
Ms. Sass reviewed the staff report regarding the Seward Johnson artwork and said
it had been presented to Council briefly on December 12, 1991, as part of the
preliminary proposal for the Spring Festival. She noted that the purpose of this
proposal was to fill in the gaps in the public art tour and that it would also add
a promotional element to the Spring Festival that we would not otherwise have.
She added that the pieces were for sale and that staff needed authorization to
proceed with the lease in order to confirm the agreement so that the pieces will
be available for the Festival.
MR. DAN EHRLER, Chairman of the Spring Festival Committee, stated he felt
the artwork would enhance the Festival and requested approval.
Mayor Kelly said he felt this was a spectacular exhibit and would make the tour
of the public art more polished. He felt promoting this exhibit would be the best
money we ever spent.
MR. PAUL CAMPBELL concurred with comments made and said that in the
past the El Paseo Business Association had made a formal request to the Art -
In -Public -Places Committee for artwork to be placed on El Paseo. He said the
City would have 100% support of the El Paseo Merchants to have work of this
quality, even for a short time.
MR. JAMES STRUCK, member of the Spring Festival Committee and Civic
Arts Committee, stated that the possibility of having a sculpture exhibit from an
artist of this magnitude was a good opportunity for the City. He said the artist
was known internationally as well as in mainstream America as well.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the Civic Arts Committee
recommendation to lease the Seward Johnson exhibit at a cost not to exceed $15,000 and appropriate
said amount to the Spring Festival Committee's budget from the unobligated general fund reserve.
Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
3. Surplus Property off Hig_hwa,y 74 Owned by Coachella Valley Water District
Councilman Crites moved to add this item to the Agenda for discussion. Motion was seconded
by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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Mayor Kelly stated that this triangular piece of property was located just north
of the Bighorn development next to the Palm Valley Channel. He said he felt
it would make a nice place for school buses and Sunline buses to turn around.
He said the cost of the 3/4 acre property was $30,000 and that a commitment
had been received from the adjacent property owner to purchase the north 1/2
acre for $20,000; that would leave us the bus turnout we want, and there would
be a condition that the owner could not build on that piece of property. He said
his job would be to get the appropriate parties together to contribute funds to
purchase the 1/4 acre (i.e., the School Board, Sunline Transit Agency, and the
City), with the City handling the transaction and owning the property. He
requested approval for the expenditure of $2,500 as the City's share and direction
for him to proceed in that effort.
Councilmember Benson asked what would have to be done to the road when
the property is purchased, and Mayor Kelly responded that both Westinghouse
and the people in the neighborhood had indicated they would do that work, and
Sunline would provide a bus shelter for that location.
Councilman Crites stated he would like to look at a map to see how all of this
would work together.
Mr. Erwin expressed concern that this property is outside the City limits and said
he would like to review the matter before the City spends any money.
Mayor Kelly stated he was bringing this matter to Council now because he needed
to make a commitment to the Coachella Valley Water District by March 1st, and
with three Councilmembers scheduled to be out of town on February 27th, the
Council meeting for that date would have to be cancelled, and Council would not
meet again in regular session until March 12th. He added that the Water District
had already advertised for bids for this property.
Councilman Crites said he would prefer that Mr. Erwin re\ iew the matter and
that staff put together a map before a decision is made and schedule a Special
City Council meeting if necessary between now and March 1st.
Mr. Erwin added that either a Special City Council meeting can be scheduled
or the February 27th meeting can be adjourned to a specific time and place in
order to consider this item.
Councilman Crites moved to refer this matter to the City Attorney for review and
recommendation and ask that staff put together a map of the area showing how this would all work
together. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
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o City Council Committee Reports:
None
XIV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
MRS. AUDREY OSTROWSKY, owner of a unit at Desert Falls, said she was very much
against having an landfill in the Coachella Valley and felt it would be detrimental in that trains
would be running all day long instead of occasionally as they do now. She said it would also
cause a severe financial problem for people in Desert Falls and hoped the Council was
seriously opposed to the Eagle Mountain Landfill for all the right reasons.
MS. EMILY SAMONS, 43-650 Carmel Circle, said she felt the idea of having a landfill in the
Coachella Valley would not be considered if money had not been squandered by the Board
of Supervisors.
Councilman Crites moved to adjourn to Closed Session at 5:32 p.m. pursuant to Government
Code Section 54956.9 (a), pending litigation (Levald v. Palm Desert, Big Horn Research Institute v.
Palm Desert, Shearson v. Palm Desert) and 54956.8, Real Property Transactions (ingress and egress
easement for potential City property - Visitor Center to the south on Highway 74). Motion was
seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
Mayor Kelly reconvened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. with no action announced from Closed
Session.
NOTE: COUNCILMAN WILSON ARRIVED AT 7:00 P.M.
XV. COMPLETION OF ITEMS HELD OVER FROM 4:00 P.M. SESSION
None
XVI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - C
None
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XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. APPOINTMENT TO SISTER CITY COMMITTEE TO FILL VACANCY CREATED
BY THE RESIGNATION OF VONNA WESTFALL.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, appoint Mr. Gus Jones to the Sister City
Committee to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Ms. Vonna Westfall. Motion was seconded
by Crites and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF THE ADOPTION OF THE MASTER
DRAINAGE PLAN DATED JUNE, 1991, AND SETTING FEES FOR DRAINAGE
FACILITIES IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE MASTER DRAINAGE PLAN
(Continued from the Meetings of July 11, August 22, November 14, and December 23,
1991, and January 23, 1992).
Mr. Altman recommended that this matter be tabled at this time because staff was still
working on it. He said it would be readvertised for a public hearing once staff is ready
to bring it back for Council consideration.
Mayor Kelly noted that this was a continued public hearing 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 TABLE this matter. Motion was seconded by Benson and
carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT ON THE FINAL DRAFT OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT SOURCE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING ELEMENT AND THE
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE ELEMENT IMPOSED BY ASSEMBLY BILL
939, CALIFORNIA INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT ACT (Continued from
the Meeting of January 23, 1992).
Mr. Wohlmuth reviewed the staff report, noting that the Coachella Valley Association
of Governments had approved the Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact at its
meeting of February 3, 1992. He added that this particular public hearing was to certify
the Negative Declaration and that the next public hearing would be for plan adoption.
He offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Kelly noted that this continued public hearing was still open and invited testimony in
FAVOR of or OPPOSED to this request. None was offered, and he declared the public
hearing closed.
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Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 92-8, certifying
a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact for the City of Palm Desert Source Reduction and
Recycling Element and the Household Hazardous Waste Element. Motion was seconded by Benson
and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
C. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION_ OF FINAL DRAFT OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT SOURCE REDUCTION AND RECYCLING ELEMENT AND THE
HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE ELEMENT IMPOSED BY ASSEMBLY BILL
939, CALIFORNIA INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT ACT (Continued from
the Meeting of January 23, 1992).
Mr. Wohlmuth reviewed the staff report, noting that this would culminate 18 months of
planning. He stated that CVAG had adopted the elements at the Executive Meeting of
February 3, 1992, and that staff was in the process of implementing the programs within
these documents. He added that we are one of the first in Southern California to
implement this plan.
Mayor Kelly noted the public hearing was still open and invited testimony in FAVOR of or
OPPOSED to this request. None was offered, and he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 92-9, approving
the final draft of the City of Palm Desert Source Reduction and Recycling Element and the Household
Hazardous Waste Element. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the
Council.
Mayor Kelly expressed appreciation to Mr. Wohlmuth for his outstanding efforts not only
on behalf of Palm Desert but for providing leadership for the entire Coachella Valley.
D. CONSIDERATION OF APPEAL OF A PLANNING COMMISSION DENIAL OF A
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT REQUEST TO ALLOW AN
ADDITIONAL ACCESS POINT TO THE PROJECT AT 74-330 ALESSANDRO, CASE
NO. 91-11A, (MAPLE LEAF PLUMBING, HEATING, AND AIR CONDITIONING,
APPLICANT).
Senior Planner Phil Drell noted that the applicant had withdrawn the appeal and that
no actinak needed to be taken on this issue.
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E. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO AN APPROVED PRECISE PLAN
AND CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT REDUCING THE SIZE OF THE PARKING
LOT FOR A 35,000SQUARE FOOT COMMERCIAL CENTER ON THE EAST SIDE
OF MONTEREY AVENUE BETWEEN HIGHWAY 111 AND SAN GORGONIO
WAY AND AN ADDENDUM TO A PREVIOUSLY APPROVED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS IT PERTAINS THERETO,
CASE NO. PP/CUP 90-5. AMENDMENT,.. (FELIDAZ, INC., APPLICANT).
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that the developer had not been able to obtain
one of the lots needed for this project but had proposed an alternative that would take
only the rear half of that lot, with the remaining lot still conforming to all standards of
the R-1 zone. He reviewed the negative declaration of environmental impact, noting that
to help mitigate noise concerns the project had been conditioned to restrict deliveries and
trash collection to between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. In terms of air quality
impacts due to dust and PM 10 during grading and construction, the project would have
to conform with the City's dust management requirements and Air Quality Management
District's PM10 management plans. He added that in other respects, the project was
identical to when the original negative declaration was approved.
Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing open and invited testimon in FAVOR of this project.
MR. FRANK GOODMAN, 77-900 Avenue of the States, Palm Desert, stated that the
applicant concurred with the staff recommendation except he was requesting that Council
override the decision of the Planning Commission and allow commercial uses as well as
office uses for this project. He offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Kelly invited testimony in OPPOSITION to this request.
Councilman Crites stated he would like to mention to Mrs. Geiberson that this hearing
was not about taking her land but instead was about whether or not the Council
approve a buildi• on that 1c• for which the applicant would need at a pont.
her land or par' That w; Id then become a discussion bcween M .berson
the devei2per, a. if it no acctdtable solution is found, the mLtter wou.,. come
to Council for consideration of whether or not to implement the eminent domain prow
MRS. RUTH GEIBERSON, 44-875 San Antonio Circle, spoke in opposition to the
project because of its plan to take .44 acres of her property which she had pl.-fined for
an orange orchard. She also objected to paving - parking lot wit` .__phalt, wl . would
kill the plants that are there, and to the incre d traffic the p 't would . _ Ise on
Monterey Avenue and to the residential streets
She said Plan C, presented in September, would have enabled the developer to build
office buildings on Monterey without using any of her property. She felt that taking the
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back portion of her lot would not be for the good of the community, which is what the
eminent domain powers should be used for.
MR. DUANE BAMBUSCH, 44-887 San Antonio Circle, stated his property was directly
east of the proposed parking lot. He said he was not really against the project because
he felt the area was an eyesore, and the project would really help in both the rainy
season and when the winds blow. However, he was concerned with the fact that the City
might take Mrs. Geiberson's land against her will.
With no further testimony, Mayor Kelly declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Wilson asked whether other alternatives had been considered for what might
go on that property without infringing on Mrs. Geiberson.
Mr. Drell responded that there had never been another diagram shown. If that portion
of Mrs. Geiberson's land was not purchased, the project would have to be redesigned and
would probably be reduced by 20% to 30% because of the geometry of the land.
Councilman Wilson asked if there was precedent where a design or a building concept
has been approved where the person making the application did not at that time own all
of the property.
Mr. Drell responded that when the plan for the Palm Desert Town Center was approved,
it required the purchase of the Exxon station at that corner as well as buildings along
Monterey Avenue.
Councilman Crites stated that as long as a vote on this project in no way impacts the
ability to say yes or no at some other time to the taking of property, he would have no
objection to approving this project as office space but not retail. He said the office
professional use was consistent all the way down Monterey and that he felt there was
nothing unique about the project to change it to retail.
Councilmember Benson noted that Council had changed this last time to be a
combination of both office and retail.
Mr. Dreg stated that the front lots were zoned C-1, General Commercial, and if approved
would permit all uses of the General Commercial zone, including retail. He said the
second Sex would be office, and it remained to be seen how much would be retail. He
said the resolution contained a condition added by the Planning Commission that would
restrict the use of the project to office only but that Council could either keep that
condition or take it out.
Councilmember Benson said she felt strongly before that it should be a combination of
both, with office on the second floor.
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Councilmember Benson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution 92-15,approving
PP/CUP 90-5 and approving an addendum to a previously approved Negative Declaration of
Environmental Impact as it pertains thereto, amended to allow up to 50% of the project to be
commercial. Mayor Kelly seconded the motion for discussion purposes.
Councilmember Benson stated she felt the use of commercial and office professional was
appropriate at this location.
Councilman Snyder asked whether this change would require that the project be sent
back to the Planning Commission, and Mr. Erwin responded that it was not necessary.
Mayor Kelly called for the vote. Motion carried by a 3-2 vote, with Councilmembers Crites
and Wilson voting NO.
F. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE GENERAL PLAN HOUSING
ELEMENT ADDING AN ANALYSIS OF EXISTING LOW INCOME ASSISTED
HOUSING AT RISK OF BEING LOST OVER THE NEXT TEN YEARS, CASE NO.
SPA 92-1,
Mr. Drell reviewed the staff report, noting that the Government Code was amended in ,
1989 to require housing elements to contain an analysis of existing assisted housing at
risk of being lost in a ten-year period through expiration of HUD contracts or other
rental contracts. He said only one project, Candlewood Apartments, was at risk. He said
this project was covered by a HUD contract and that the owner had expressed the
intention to maintain the contract through its entire term. If he were to withdraw, the
City and Redevelopment Agency would consider acquiring the project to preserve the
low income units. He offered to answer any questions.
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.
Councilmember Benson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 92-16,
approving GPA 92-1. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XIX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - D
None
XX. ADJOURNMENT
Councilmembers Benson, Crites, Kelly, and Wilson indicated they would each be out of town
on February 27th, the next regularly scheduled City Council meeting.
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Mr. Erwin stated that the City Clerk would call the meeting to order and then adjourn it due
to the lack of a quorum. If there was a need for a meeting based on Council's discussion of
the property on Highway 74, the City Clerk could be advised of that need and could then
adjourn the February 27th meeting to a specific date and time to consider that matter.
Otherwise, the meeting would be adjourned to the next regular meeting of March 12th.
Upon motion by Snyder, second by Wilson, and unanimous vote of the City Council, Mayor
Kelly adjourned the meeting at 7:55 p.m.
ATTEST:
SHEILA R. G IGAN, CO'Y CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESFR , CALIFORNIA
RICHA'LD S. KELLY, MAYOR
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