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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994-08-25MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 1994 s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s* s s s s s s s I. CALL TO ORDER Mayor Wilson convened the meeting at 4:10 p.m. and asked that the Redevelopment Agency meeting be held first. Council concurred. He reconvened the meeting at 4:39 p.m. H. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman Walter H. Snyder M. INVOCATION - Councilman Richard S. Kelly IV. ROLL CALL Present: Councilmember Jean M. Benson Mayor Pro-Tempore Buford A. Crites Councilman Richard S. Kelly Councilman Walter H. Snyder Mayor S. Roy Wilson Also Present: Bruce A. Altman, City Manager David J. Erwin, City Attorney Sheila R. Gilligan, City Clerk/Public Information Officer Carlos L. Ortega, ACM/Director of Redevelopment Agency Ramon A. Diaz, ACM/Director of Community Development Richard J. Folkers, ACM/Director of Public Works Paul Shillcock, ACM/Director of Economic Development Paul Gibson, Director of Finance Pat Conlon, Director of Building and Safety Wayne Ramsey, Acting Director of Code Compliance John Wohlmuth, Assistant to the City Manager Catherine Sass, Community Arts Manager Ken Weller, Emergency Services Coordinator Lisa Constande, Environmental Conservation Manager V. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meetings of July 14, July 28, and August 11, 1994. Rec: Approve as presented. MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING ,AUGUST 25, 1994 « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « « B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Nos. 57, 58, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and 9. Rec: Approve as presented. C-1. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Fury Investments, Inc. and Bananaz California Cantina, 72-291 Highway 111, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. C-2. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by The Southland Corporation for 7-Eleven Store #2171-22362, 73-800 Highway 111, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. C-3. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Marriott Hotel Services, Inc. for 74-855 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. C-4. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Payless Drug Stores Northwest, Inc. for Payless Drug Store No. 4163, 74-958 Country Club Drive, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. C-5. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE for Nicolino's Italian Restaurant, 73-460 Highway 111, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. D. CLAIM AQAINST THE CITY (#255) by Geraldine L. Verga in the Amount of $260,000. Rec: By Minute Motion, deny the claim and direct the City Clerk to so notify the Claimant. E-1. RESOLUTION NQ. 94-82 - 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 (June 1994). Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. 2 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s s: s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s* s# s s s s s s s s s E-2. J ESOLUTION NO. 94-83 - 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 (July 1994). Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. E-3. RESOLUTION NO. 94-84 - 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. F-1. RESOLUTION NO. 94-81 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, in Support of the Emergency Cold Weather Shelter Program. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-85 and direct staff to forward a copy of said resolution to Governor Pete Wilson. F-2. RESOLUTION NO. 94-86 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, Establishing an Undergrounding District for the Purpose of the Expenditure of Rule 20A Funds by Southern California Edison Company. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. F-3. RESOLUTION NO. 94-87 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, in Support of the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy "Desert Mountains License Plate" Campaign. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. F-4. RESOLUTION NO. 94-8L - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, Relating to the Production of Public Records. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. F-5. RESOLUTION NO. 94-89 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, Amending the Fiscal Year 1993/94 Budget to Provide Additional Appropriations from Traffic Safety and Gas Tax Funds to the General Fund. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-89, amending the 1993/94 Budget to provide transfer of unobligated funds from the Traffic Safety and Gas Tax Funds to the General Fund as of June 30, 1994. 3 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * F-6. RESOLUTION NQ. 94-90 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, Rescinding and Replacing Resolution Nos. 93-67 and 92-55, Identifying Exempt Management Positions and Related Benefits. Rec: Waive further reading and adopt. G. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Retention Schedule and Destruction of City Clerk Files that have been Microfilmed. Rec: 1) Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-91, approving the Records Transfer and Retention Schedule for the City Clerk's Office; 2) waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-92, setting forth its findings and authorizing the destruction of files from the City Clerk's Office that have been microfilmed. H. PRELIMINARY SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS as of June 30, 1994. Rec: Receive and file. I. MINUTES of the Sister Cities Committee Meeting of June 21, 1994. Rec: Receive and file. J-1. LEI 1hR OF RESIGNATION from Dennis J. Orsborn from the Palm Desert Parks and Recreation Commission. Rec: Accept with sincere regret. J-2. LE1'1 ER OF RESIGNATION from Mr. Thomas A. Scott from the City's Building Board of Appeals and Condemnation. Rec: Accept with sincere regret. K-1. APPROVAL OF REQUEST by Susan Mack for Plan Check Extension at 73-150 Loma Vista Drive. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve a final 180-day (six month) plan check extension for the above residence to expire on December 30, 1994. K-2. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Plan Check Extension for Wailoa Development for Project at Desert Springs Marketplace, Building "L". Rec.. By Minute Motion, approve the extension of plan check for Wailoa Development until December 31, 1994. 4 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s s s s s s s s s s s s* s* s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s L. REQUEST FOR REFUND of Building Permits Issued During the Last Fiscal Year., Rec: By Minute Motion, approve $25,323.43 to be refunded to D. Melilli Construction Company, Inc. for seven (7) homes they will not be building at Primrose II - Tract 25436 (per letter dated July 22, 1994, attached to staff report). M. REQUEST FOR REFUND of Fees for Business License #93-5994 and Home Occupation Permit #93-5995 for "Pro -File Data" for Fiscal Year 1993/94. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the refund of $41.25 for Business License #93-5994 and no refund for Home Occupation Permit Business License #93-5995 for Pro -File Data for Fiscal Year 1993/94. N-1. LETTER from City of Los Angeles Requesting Palm Desert's Opposition to "Save Our State" (SOS) Initiative which would Deny Public Education and Most Government Funded Health and Welfare Benefits to Illegal Immigrants. Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation. N-2. Lti i tic from City of Modesto Requesting Palm Desert's Support of Senate Bill 302 Authorizing Cities to Provide for the Abatement of a Nuisance Resulting from the Defacement of the Property of Another by "Tagging" and to Impose Financial Responsibility on Both the Perpetrator and the Parents of Minor Children Who Commit Acts of this Kind of Vandalism. Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation. N-3. Lt ri EX from City of Palmdale Seeking Support from All California Cities in Amending Senate Bill 509 (Prop. 172) to Include "Low Tax" Cities in Local Public Service Safety Fund Allocation and Reimbursement. Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation. O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Red Cross Budget Carryover. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the appropriation of $12,710.00 from the General Fund Unobligated Reserves for the balance of the Red Cross supplies approved from last year's budget. 5 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * P-1. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Out -of -State Travel for Director of Economic Development. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request for extension of the existing out-of-state travel for the Director of Economic Development to include visiting with businesses/agencies during the week of September 19, 1994, as outlined in the staff report dated August 25, 1994. P-2. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Out -of -State Travel for Ahmad Karimi to Attend an Advanced Training Seminar for Radiation Safety Officers. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request. Q-1. REOUEST FOR_RELEASE of Subdivision Improvement Security for Desert Communities, Inc. - Tract 27228. Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to release the subject improvement securities. Q-2. REOUEST FOR RELEASE of Grading Improvement Security for Tract 26123-1 (Sunrise Company, Applicant). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to release the subject improvement securities. R. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Tract Map 23940-2 (Robert B. Varner, Applicant). Rec: Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-93 approving Tract Map 23940- 2. S-1. REOUEST FOR AWARD OF BID PROPOSAL for Removal of Underground Fuel Storage Tanks. Rec: By Minute Motion, award the removal of underground fuel storage tanks to Canyon Specialties in the amount of $5,050.00. S-2. REOUEST FOR AWARD OF BID for 125KW Generator Set. Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Award the purchase of a 125KW standby generator set with automatic transfer switch and 5-year extended warranty to Johnson Power Systems in the amount of $27,438.60; 2) appropriate $27,438.60 from the unobligated general fund reserves for the project. 6 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * S-3. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for Phase I Environmental Site Assessment (Contract No. C08880). Rec: By Minute Motion, award Phase I, Environmental Site Assessment for the Public Works Corporation Yard, 74-833 Joni Drive, to Geo Sec, Inc. in the amount of $2,450.00. T. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of City -Wide Striping. Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize staff to continue utilizing County of Riverside's Transportation Department staff to City-wide street striping and stenciling and authorize an amount not to exceed $125,000 for these services. U. REOUEST FOR EXTENSION OF LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE CONTRACT for Haystack Greenbelt, Assessment Zone #2 (Contract No. C03922). Rec: By Minute Motion, approve a one-year extension with Sunshine Landscape for Contract No. C03922 in the amount of $32,950.56 ($2,745.88 per month). V-1. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT with the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District for Civic Center Park Supervision (Contract No. C08960). Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District to schedule, supervise, and reserve the Civic Center Park and associated amenities; and 2) appropriate an additional $5,000 from the Unobligated General Fund Budget Reserve to Account #110-4611- 452-3320, Civic Center Park Contract Repair and Maintenance. V-2. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL, OF CONTRACT for Research Services with Regional Business Assistance Center at College of the Desert (Contract No. C08970). Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request and authorize the" Mayor to execute a contract with the Regional Business Assistance Center (Contract No. C08970). W. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Reimbursement for Completed Street Improvements - North Side of Palm Desert Drive South. Rec: By Minute Motion, approve reimbursement to Mr. Robert Downs for completed street improvements along the north side of Palm Desert Drive South in the amount of $5,198.00. 7 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * X. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to Contract No. C07440 for Highway 111 and Portola Avenue Traffic Signal Modifications and Street Improvements. Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve Change Order No. 1 to Contract No. C07440 in the amount of $1,689.88; 2) authorize the transfer of $1,689.88 from contingency to base. Y. LETTER from Mrs. Robert R. Wilde and Mrs. Roger Giegling Representing Belmonte Homeowners Relative to Building of the Unfinished Tract on Belmonte Drive. Rec: Refer to staff for report and recommendation. Z. REOUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE QF WORK for Contract No. R07820 - Construction of El Paseo Palm Tree Infill Project. Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project. AA. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Advertise and Call for Bids for Street Sweeping Services (Contract No. C08980). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to advertise and call for bids for street sweeping services. Mayor Pro-Tem Crites noted that he had a request from the audience to remove Item I from the Consent Calendar for separate discussion under Section IX, Consent Items Held Over. Councilman Kelly also asked that Item V-1 be removed for separate discussion. Upon motion by Snyder, second by Kelly, the remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved as presented by unanimous vote of the Council. VI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A None VII. RESOLUTIONS A. RESOLUTION NO. 94-94 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, TO ESTABLISH THE RIVERSIDE COUNTY ABANDONED VEHICLE ABATEMENT SERVICE AUTHORITY AND AUTHORIZE THE IMPOSITION OF A VEHICLE REGISTRATION FEE. Mr. Altman noted the memorandum in the packets. 8 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s# s s s s s s s s* s s s s* s s s* s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s Mayor Pro-Tem Crites stated that the County had been using this program on a number of highways around the Valley and pulling out junked cars, etc. He said there was some honest value coming out of the program. Councilman Snyder moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-94. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. B. RESOLUTION NO. 94-95 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING PAYMENT BY THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR ALL OR PART OF THE COST OF THE INSTALLATION AND CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC IMPROVEMENTS. Mr. Ortega noted that this resolution was the same as that adopted by the Redevelopment Agency Board. Councilmember Benson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-95, making findings pursuant to Health and Safety Code Section 33445 in connection with the payment by the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency for all or part of the cost of the installation and construction of public improvements owned by the Desert Sands Unified School District. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. VIII. ORDINANCES For Introduction: A. ORDINANCE NO. 757 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RESCINDING CITY COUNCIL ORDINANCE NO. 281. Mr. Altman noted the memorandum in the packets from Mrs. Gilligan and recommended approval. Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 752 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. B. ORDINANCE NO. 758 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTIONS 2.48.040, 2,48.060, 2.48.070, 2.48.090, AND 2.48.110, AND ADDING SECTIONS 2.48.075 AND 2.48.095 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING DISASTER AND EMERGENCY RELIEF. Mr. Altman noted the staff report in the packets from Mr. Weller and offered to answer any questions. 9 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL rz i ii LTG AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Wilson moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 758 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. C. ORDINANCE NO. 759 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 5.88.040 PERTAINING TO PERNu i I r.') LOCATIONS OF ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENTS. Mr. Ramsey reviewed the staff report, noting that this would change the wording of Section 5.88.040 so that it will be identical to the wording of Section 5.88.030. Upon question by Mayor Wilson, Mr. Erwin responded that this was not a substantive change but was just clarification of what staff thought was already in this section. Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 252 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. D. ORDINANCE NO. 760 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING BY REFERENCE RIVERSIDE COUNTY ORDINANCE NO. 716, CRUELTY TO ANIMALS, AND ORDINANCE NO. 534.5, RUNNING AT LARGE OF DOMESTIC FOWL AND/OR DOMESTIC ANIMALS OTHER THAN DOGS AND CATS. Mr. Ramsey reviewed the staff report and offered to answer any questions. Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 760 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote. E. QRDINANCE NO. 761 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 741 BY ADDING A WEIGHT LIMIT OF 8,000 POUNDS GROSS VEHICLE WEIGHT AND DEFINING THE LIMITS OF THE VEHICLE PROHIBITION. r Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 761 to second reading. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote. For Adoption: A. ORDINANCE NO. 754 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 9.24.060(K) OF CHAPTER 9.24 OF TITLE 9 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO SPECIAL PROVISIONS OF THE NOISE ORDINANCE. Mr. Altman stated that there had been no changes to this ordinance since its introduction, and he recommended adoption. 10 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 7�54. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. B. ORDINANCE NO. 756 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO THE ZONING ORDINANCE TEXT, TO SECTION 25.34.020 TO ADD "ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENTS" AS PERM! i i rii USES IN THE SERVICE INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT, CASE NO. ZOA 94-2. Mr. Altman stated that there had been no changes to this ordinance since its introduction, and he recommended adoption. Mayor Wilson moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 754. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. IX. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER V-1. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT with the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District for Civic Center Park Supervision (Contract No. C08960). Councilman Kelly asked for clarification of this item. Mr. Folkers stated that this would firm up with the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District to make sure there is supervision in the park seven days per week until 10:00 p.m. each day. He added that there would be people actually out in the park doing just park supervision and making sure people are not misusing the tennis courts, etc. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the Mayor to execute an agreement with the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District to schedule, supervise, and reserve the Civic Center Park and associated amenities; and 2) appropriate an additional $5,000 from the Unobligated General Fund Budget Reserve to Account #110-4611-452-3320, Civic Center Park Contract Repair and Maintenance. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. Y. j.F•rrF, from Mrs. Robert R. Wilde and Mrs. Roger Giegling Representing Belmonte Homeowners Relative to Building of the Unfinished Tract on Belmonte Drive. MR. RICK FARBER, 6 Belmonte Drive, Belmonte Estates, addressed Council relative to the validity of the review process for residential developments. He said Triad Development had built the original 90 lots in Phase I in accordance with City conditions of approval. There is now a new developer coming in who has proposed and shown to homeowners exhibits of new homes which are totally contrary to the conditions of approval for Phase I. He said he felt the new developer should build the new homes in accordance with what has been done in the other phase. 11 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Mr. Diaz stated that this matter had been under discussion for some time, and he and Mayor Wilson had met with a group of homeowners and the attorney representing homeowners in the Belmonte area. He said he was confused at this time because it was his understanding that the attorney was retained by the homeowners of Belmonte Estates and The Lakes Association to try and work things out. He noted that all of the homes would have to go through the Architectural Review Commission (ARC) for approval. He noted that single family residential homes were normally approved at the staff level and did not go to the ARC for approval unless the height was above 15 feet. He added that staff would have no problem with the Council giving direction that all single family homes throughout the City should go through the formal ARC approval process. Mr. Diaz stated that he had looked at the La Quinta ordinance and felt it was a good one; however, he questioned it being enforced in the courts. He asked that Council, if the City Attorney agrees, direct staff to move forward with adopting a similar ordinance as an urgency ordinance. He said no permits had yet been issued and that staff was still trying to work things out. Mr. Erwin expressed concern with adoption of such an ordinance because it would apply throughout the City, and he did not know if there was a City-wide problem that needed to be dealt with. He suggested instructing staff to make sure building permits are not issued until this has gone through the required process. Upon question by Mayor Wilson relative to a possible agreement by the developer that the minimum square footage would be raised to 1900 square feet and the maximum would exceed 3000 square feet, Mr. Diaz responded that he had a call in to the developer's attorney and would also contact the attorney for the homeowners. Councilmember Benson asked whether there the City had something that said if a development is approved under certain conditions, the developer must come back to the City for approval of something different. Mr. Diaz responded that the new units would have to be substantially compatible with the other units. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, direct staff to delay issuance of permits for Belmonte Estates and bring a full report to the next Council meeting, including a recommendation on the City of La Quinta ordinance. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. X. NEW BUSINESS A. CONSIDERATION OF REOUEST FROM KLCX RADIO TO USE A 32'0" HIGH COLD AIR BALLOON FOR PROMOTION OF MONDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL FOR 18 CONSECUTIVE WEEKS. Mr. Altman noted the report in the packets. 12 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MR. ANDREW REIMER, General Manager of KLCX Radio, noted this station had been in Palm Desert for two years, and one of its purposes was to draw people to the City. He questioned staffs recommendation for denial and said a similar balloon had been approved by the City for a three-hour event at the Palm Desert Town Center about a month ago. Mr. Diaz responded that the event at the Town Center was one that had been advertised previously, and staff approved it on that basis. In this particular case, the applicant called in and asked for approval of a balloon every Monday night, and staff indicated this request would have to be approved by the Council. Upon question by Councilmember Benson, Mr. Reimer stated that the letter was incorrect in indicating the balloon would need to be up from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.; in fact, it would only be needed for three hours every Monday night. He asked if Council would approve the use of the balloon for the Monday night kickoff game and allow them to come back for other approvals at a later date. Councilman Kelly suggested approving the use of the balloon from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. to give the applicant time to put it up and then take it down. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, grant the applicants' request to use a cold air balloon for promotion of Monday Night Football for the evening of September 5, 1994, from 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote. B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF DESERT CROSSING PARKING LOT LIGHTING PLAN. Mr. Altman noted the memorandum in the packets from Mr. Wohlmuth. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, make a determination of exemption from Ordinance 642, City of Palm Desert's Night Skies Ordinance, for the Desert Crossing Development. Motion was seconded by Wilson and carried by unanimous vote. C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF VIGNETTE FOR 1994 "SKINS GAME". Mr. Altman noted the staff report in the packets. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the request and appropriate $100,000 from the Unobligated General Fund Reserves to Account No. 110-4416-414-3215 to pay for the production and airing of a commercial to be run during The Skins Game. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. 13 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL Mr z i ii G AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * D. BBEOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF RETAIL MARKETING PROGRAM FOR i nrz i FAIR FUNDS. Mrs. Gilligan reviewed the staff report and offered to answer any questions. Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, direct staff to work with the Promotion Committee in establishing a Retail Marketing Subcommittee for the purpose of establishing an advertising campaign for the retail segment of the community utilizing the services of the City' advertising agency, Wilkinson and Parlan, said program to be funded by Street Fair fees collected by the City. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. E. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL OF QUIT CLAIM DEED TO DESERT COMMUNITIES, INC. OF CERTAIN PROPERTY ERRONEOUSLY CONVEYED TO THE CITY BY WESTINGHOUSE DESERT COMMUNITIES, INC. AS PART OF A DEDICATION RELATING TO THE BIG HORN DEVELOPMENT. Mr. Erwin stated that this was to correct a conveyance made back in 1991 when the City received the open space land. He said the City was actually given too much land at that time, and this quit claim deed will correct that. Mayor Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the request and authorize the Mayor to execute a Quit Claim Deed to Desert Communities, Inc. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. F. KEOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF CIVIC CENTER OFFICE SPACE FOR COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT DEPUTY CHIEF FOR EASTERN DIVISION. Mr. Weller reviewed the staff report, noting that Eric Vogt had been promoted to the new position of Deputy Chief for Eastern Division. The City had been approached relative to providing office space for the new Deputy Chief at the Civic Center in the unfinished future space behind the Finance Department. Staff recommended approval and authorization of an amount not to exceed $30,000 to remodel that area and make it both office space and a City Emergency Operations Center. Upon question by Mayor Wilson relative to access to the area, Mr. Weller responded that the design had not yet been done but that there was a rear door that could possibly be used if a handicap walkway was also installed. Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the use of the future space by the Riverside County Fire Department and appropriate an amount not to exceed $30,000 from the Unobligated New Construction Tax Fund Reserves. Motion was seconded by Wilson. Councilman Kelly suggested a regular ceiling as opposed to a T-bar ceiling which would save money and still look nice. 14 REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s s s s s s s** s s s s s s s s** s s******** s s s s* s* s s Mr. Weller stated that staff would look into this with the proposals. Mr. Vogt thanked the Council and Mayor for this consideration and said what the Fire Department was suggesting was a partnership in that office space so it would be not only office space for himself but also the City's to use when it needs an E.O.C. Councilmember Benson expressed concern that the City was paying for something created by the County, although she said she was glad to have Mr. Vogt here and felt he had done a good job. Mayor Wilson called for the vote. Motion carried by unanimous vote of the Council. G. INFORMJ 11QNAL ITEMS: 1. Colony CableVision of California Update. Mr. Janes noted the memorandum in the packets relative to cable complaints received for the period from July 1 to August 5, 1994. Upon question by Councilman Kelly, Mr. Janes responded that the south end of the City is the last area to receive the fiber optic rebuild due to problems getting permits approved by Southern California Edison. Councilman Kelly also stated he did not feel staff should be getting involved in negotiations between two different organizations (i.e., complaint dated 07/22/94 listed in the report). Mr. Janes stated that staff only refers customers to the other cable company when they advise that they have come to a stalemate with Colony; however, if it is Council's wish, staff will no longer do that. Mayor Wilson commended Mr. Janes and said he felt he does a good job of being the buffer and representative between the people and the cable companies. He said there were many problems; Mr. Janes has taken on that responsibility and is able to satisfy people who are not able to get answers. He said he was happy with the way Mr. Janes was handling these complaints. 2. Update on Multi -Agency Library. Mr. Diaz stated that the bid process had been completed; Skidmoore Construction was the low bidder and was awarded the contract. He said Ray House, Chairman of the College of the Desert Board of Trustees, and Mr. Barney Sanders were both in attendance to make a presentation relative to several alternates that were part of the bid. He said the first alternate was to use Indian Sandstone at an additional cost of approximately $250,000; the second was German Sandstone at $392,000 additional 15 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL Mr.r.iiiiiG AUGUST 25, 1994 * * s* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * a s s* * s * * * s* s and elimination of certain interior furnishings. He said everyone in the group had immediately eliminated the German Sandstone, so the decision was whether or not to go with the Indian Sandstone. He added that the official groundbreaking for the new library was scheduled for October 21, 1994. Mayor Wilson asked the architect for the project what his recommendation would be. MR. PAUL ZAJFEN of IBI responded that they originally recommended the German Sandstone, but it was more expensive. He said they were now recommending the Indian Sandstone instead. Upon question by Mayor Wilson relative to the committee's review of this, Mr. Diaz responded that he could only speak for several members and himself, and their recommendation was the Indian Sandstone. Mayor Wilson stated he felt if this much money was going to be spent to build something and it is within budget, we should go with the architect's alternate recommendation. He said he would be in favor of the Indian Sandstone approach. Mayor Wilson moved to, by Minute Motion, instruct staff to convey the Council's desire to go with the Indian Sandstone. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. 3. Fred Waring Drive Rezoning. Mr. Altman noted the memorandum in the packets and offered to answer any questions. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize staff to meet with residents within a 300 foot radius of Fred Waring Drive between Deep Canyon and Portola to discuss rezoning and roadway improvement options - ultimately developing a plan for this section of the corridor. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by a 4-0-1 vote, with Mayor Wilson ABSENT. With Council concurrence, Mayor Pro-Tem Crites recessed the meeting at 6:00 p.m. for dinner. Mayor Wilson reconvened the meeting at 7:00 p.m. XI. CONTINUED BUSINESS A. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF CIVIC CENTER PARK AQUATIC CENTER (Continued from the Meeting of July 14, 1994). Councilman Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of September 22, 1994, at the request of the Aquatic Center Committee. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by unanimous vote. 16 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF APPEAL TO A DECISION OF THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION DENYING A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF AN AWNING AS INSTALLED AT 73-199 EL PASEO, SUITE E, VISION AMERICA OPTOMETRY, Case No. 4248SA, (Continued from the Meeting of July 14, 1994). Mr. Diaz stated that this matter had been continued and referred to the El Paseo Business Association for review and comment. He said there was a letter in the packets indicating the Association's recommendation that the Council uphold the decision of the Architectural Review Commission and require removal of the awning. MR. ERNIE BROOKS, Palms to Pines Canvas, stated he had received letters of support from merchants in businesses around the awning in question, and he submitted them to the City Clerk. He said the Council had instructed him to meet with the El Paseo Business Association Board, and he had tried to do so; however, he was notified when he came in to get other permits that the meeting had already been held, and he was not given a chance to appear before the Board. He said his direction from Council had been to show the Board the two different fabric colors; while Steve Smith in the Planning Department did give the Board the samples, he felt he should have been given the opportunity to meet with the Board in person. MRS. SONIA CAMPBELL, President of the El Paseo Business Association Board, stated that the Board had met, with Planner Steve Smith in attendance, and looked at the samples brought to the July 14th City Council meeting by Mr. Brooks. The Board voted to recommend that the Council uphold the decision of the Architectural Review Commission. Councilman Crites asked whether Mr. Brooks was given the opportunity to appear before the Board, and Mrs. Campbell responded that this was not one of the directions from Council. Council's direction was for the Board to look at the samples and make an evaluation of that. Councilman Snyder stated that the problem was not just with the color but was with the shininess of the fabric and the fact that it was put up without approval. He said the applicant did not follow City procedures in putting up the awning, the El Paseo Board recommended removal of the awning, and he could not approve it. Councilman Kelly stated he did not have a problem with the color or style but that his concern was that approval was given for one thing and something completely different was installed. Councilman Crites stated that the El Paseo Board unanimously recommended that the awning be removed; however, a number of merchants on the same street and close to the awning say they do not mind it. He said his understanding of Council's action at the last meeting was that Mr. Brooks would have an opportunity to meet with the El Paseo Business Association Board to make a presentation himself. He said he would like to see that opportunity granted, 17 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * not because he felt the Board was wrong, but just because he thought Mr. Brooks should have the opportunity to make his case in a democratic fashion. Mayor Wilson stated that Council direction was probably not clear but that he agreed that the intent was to allow Mr. Brooks to personally appear before the El Paseo Board. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, continue this item to the meeting of September 22, 1994, to allow the applicant an opportunity to present his case personally to the El Paseo Business Association Board, with a note that this action by the Council does not in any way reflect on the Board's previous decision to deny the awning. Councilmember Benson seconded the motion but asked for a list of all letters received because she did not know where the businesses were located in relation to the awning. Motion carried by unanimous vote. C. REOUEST FOR APPROVAL OF SIGN PROGRAM FOR A 500,000 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL CENTER (DESERT CROSSING) WHICH INCLUDES EXCEPTIONS TO SIGN ORDINANCE SECTION 25.68.300 INVOLVING WALL SIGN HEIGHTS OVER 20 FEET AND SECTION 25.68.310 INVOLVING FREESTANDING SIGNS, Case No. PP 92-5 Lowe Development Corporation, Applicant (Continued from the Meeting of July 14, 1994). Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report, noting that the recommendation was to approve the sign program as recommended by the Architectural Review Commission (ARC). He stated the main areas of difference appeared to be: 1) allowable square footage, particularly for the maintenance; 2) type of lighting (ARC recommended halo lit); 3) number of colors (ARC recommended three colors - red, blue, and ivory). MR. GREG HOXWORTH, Lowe Enterprises, said they were in agreement with the recommendation on the height of 28 feet, on the size, and on the monument sign for the project. They were not in agreement on: halo lit vs. internally illuminated letters. They felt internally lit would be easier to see from vehicles driving by. colors. He said they had originally come in with the colors red, white, blue, and a fourth color. The ARC came up with ivory instead of the white. He showed photos of signs at other centers and said the Michael's Center had red, white, blue, light blue, and another color that looked like brown - five colors. He requested approval of a fourth color for the center, the color green, and said this would add to their ability to lease the spaces. Mayor Wilson stated it was his understanding from Mr. Hoxworth that they were requesting approval of internally lit letters, additional of a fourth color, and a change of color from ivory to white. Mr. Hoxworth agreed. 18 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 2S, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * a * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Upon question by Mayor Wilson relative to the Ralph's Center having two different shades of red plus yellow, green, and white and whether this set a precedent, Mr. Diaz responded that it was his understanding the ARC could not approve more than three colors, and because shades are considered different colors, it could not approve the request by Lowe Enterprises; however, Council has the ability to approve the request and has approved similar requests in the past. Upon question by Councilman Crites, Mr. Frank Urrutia, member of the Architectural Review Commission, explained how the Commission had arrived at the ivory vs. white color. He said ivory was a typically softer color and blended better with the color tones presented to the Commission. With regard to halo lit letters vs. internally illuminated, he said he was still comfortable with halo lit over internally lit. He said there may be a little fuzziness around the edges, but they were generally big enough in size with enough contrast against the buildings for people to be able to see them. With regard to colors, he said the ARC, as a matter of policy, had tried to limit them to three. He said the Mervyn's Center was one where the ARC recommended three colors and Council allowed different color tones. He recommended that if Council does wish to approve another color that it stay with a tone change and not allow an additional color. MR. JOSEPH RIZZIO, Architect for Circuit City, stated his organization had been promised the same signage at this new location as they had at the Mervyn's location. Mr. Diaz disagreed and stated that until this time staff did not know Circuit City was definitely relocating to the new center, and staff had never said Circuit City would have the same amount of signage as it has at the Mervyn's center. He added that all signs must be approved by the ARC. Councilman Crites stated that Circuit City could have its signage if the developer wants to take away some of the signage for another business. Councilmember Benson noted that she was opposed to three monument signs and did not feel that many were necessary. Mr. Hoxworth noted that all of the centers approved in the last three years had at least four colors in their signs. With regard to the Circuit City issue, he said this was a function of the Sign Ordinance and was based on the front footage. The current store they are in has a larger front that the new one. Mayor Wilson stated there were several issues of disagreement that needed to be discussed by the Council: 1) halo vs. internally illuminated lights; and 2) signage colors. Councilman Crites stated he felt the halo lit had a better look and added a touch of ambiance to the center, while internally illuminated lights do not. 19 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Councilman Kelly stated he had difficulty in many locations finding the place he is looking for. He said if the internally illuminated lights are not very distracting and do not do anything detrimental to the building, he does not see anything wrong. With regard to having three monument signs, he said this center has a large frontage on Highway 111 and Fred Waring. Palm Desert will be competing for business with other cities, and we are trying to keep that area Palm Desert's shopping area. He said he felt the Council should do everything possible to help Palm Desert businesses do a better job and be competitive. He said he saw nothing wrong with internally lit signs, the color white, and four colors for the signage. Councilman Snyder stated it would be very difficult for him to overrule the ARC in any situation they have considered and made a recommendation on. He said he recognized that ivory was a softer color, and he said he did not have much trouble with the colors. Councilmember Benson stated she felt the developer should stay with halo lit letters, three colors, and two monument signs. Councilman Crites stated that granting the applicant either a tint or tone of one of the approved colors was a way they could still stay in the color range but have the flexibility in signage contrast. Mayor Wilson stated he agreed with the ARC's recommendation relative to halo lit letters. He said he had no problem with the additional color green and changing the ivory to white. Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the use of an additional color (green) and approve a color change from ivory to white. Motion was seconded by Snyder and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Benson voting NO. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, accept the recommendation of the Architectural Review Commission that all wall signs be halo lit with 4500 white neon. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Kelly voting NO. XII. OLD BUSINESS A. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF PEDESTRIAN PLAZA AREA FOR DESERT CROSSING COMMERCIAL COMPLEX. Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report and recommendation. He said the developer and the Architectural Review Commission needed direction on Painters Path as to whether the Council would want landscaping all the way to the curb or instead to have the curb, then a sidewalk, and then landscaping. Staff recommended putting a sidewalk on Painters Path. MR. TED LENNON, Lowe Enterprises, 72-085 Clancy Lane, Rancho Mirage, stated they had tried to break the two pedestrian plazas into two distinct areas with a combined area of close to 8,000 square feet. He said they would include a public art feature and would work 20 UNUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s s s s s s s** s•**•* s** s**** s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s the details out with the appropriate City committees. He noted the design called for date palms in planters, food carts, etc. In addition, they were trying to have creative drinking fountains such as tree trunks out of the date palms. He reviewed plans for both areas. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the changes as reviewed by Mr. Lennon, noting that he felt they were excellent changes that would add to the center. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilmember Benson voting NO. B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR SUNTERRACE - ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 94-2. Mr. Altman noted the memorandum in the packets from Mr. Diaz. Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-96, expressing intention to proceed with the formation of and the issuance and sale of bonds for proposed Assessment District No. 94-2 (Sunterrace) and authorizing negotiation of agreement regarding formation of said Assessment District with Robert B. Varner (Contract No. C08990). Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. C. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED PRIVATE RESTAURANT AT THE CIVIC CENTER PARK. Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report and said staff felt design concerns could be addressed through proper review. The issue of whether the use in and of itself was inherently compatible or incompatible with the site was an issue that Council must determine. If Council felt the use was inappropriate, the entire procedure should be stopped now; if, however, Council feels the proposed use could be designed in such a manner that it is compatible with the Civic Center Park, then it should proceed. Staff requested Council direction in this matter. MR. ALIBABA FARZANEH, 39-920 Newcastle Drive, Palm Desert, spoke as the applicant and reviewed his proposed project. He offered to answer any questions. Councilman Crites stated he felt Mr. Farzaneh was a person of quality and had a good reputation of following through on things like this. The question was whether or not this was something that would be appropriate for the park. He said the park was filling up with people and uses; what was once empty space is increasingly filling up. He said his concern was whether or not the Council wants to add more uses to a facility that is already beginning to achieve high usage. He said this was an area that gets high traffic and that he had wandered through the park and asked people for their opinion about the proposed restaurant. He said people were both favorable and unfavorable, and there were also responses such as "I don't care". 21 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Councilman Kelly stated there was no question that this would be a successful project. However, he expressed concern with: 1) compatibility with what we have established there and the high usage we already have; and 2) the City getting involved in something that would compete with other restaurants in the community. He said one of the City of Palm Desert's largest revenue sources was sales tax from restaurants; they have a touch time already, and he said he felt it would be unfair competition on the part of the City to be involved in a program such as this. Councilmember Benson agreed with Crites that there is no doubt that if there were to be a restaurant, Mr. Farzaneh would do a good job. However, she said she felt there were other priorities for the Council to consider before starting on something that is not a necessity. Councilman Snyder suggested that Council refer the matter back to the Civic Center Steering Committee one more time to review all the ramifications and look at what is happening in the park. The Committee could then come back to the Council with a recommendation. Councilman Crites stated that Councilman Kelly's concern was about City involvement in competition, while Councilmember Benson was concerned with whether we have adequate funding in terms of priorities. He said he would ask that the Steering Committee somehow go out and talk to park users to solicit additional input from people who are actually out in the park. Councilman Kelly suggested that the Parks and Recreation Commission also look at this again. Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion, refer this matter to the Parks & Recreation Commission and back to the Civic Center Steering Committee for additional review, with that review to include addressing the different issues brought up by Councilmembers during the meeting and with direction to staff to solicit public input from users of the park. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. Mr. Farzaneh stated that he would like to see the City's newsletter include a picture of the model of the restaurant and have the newsletter sent to all citizens requesting input. He added that he felt the restaurant would be a promotion item for the City and that they would sell items in the restaurant that said Palm Desert on them. Councilman Crites agreed that this was a good idea. D. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF I-10 AND COOK STREET INTERCHANGE COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT WITH COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT FOR PROJECT SEWER FACILITIES RELOCATION (Contract No. C08551). Mr. Folkers reviewed the staff report and recommendation. 22 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * Councilman Snyder moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve amendment #1 to the Cooperative Agreement (Contract No. C185 ) with the Coachella Valley Water District to modify the project work split and cash contribution for the swap of sewer main design and cash to the amount of $265,085.00 in lieu of rebuilding the existing forced main sewer pump station; 2) appropriate funds from the project account #481- 4389-433-4001. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. CITY MANAGER None B. CITY ATTORNEY 1. Interactive Fountain for Civic Center Parr Mr. Erwin noted the report in the packets. He said he had been advised earlier today that the contractor did have a license. He asked that Council continue this matter to the next meeting so that he could continue to review the matter. Councilman Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of September 8, 1994. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. 2. Request for Closed Session: Mr. Ortega noted that the agenda listed a Request for a Closed Session relative to a mobilehome in Portola Palms Mobilehome Park which was donated to the City. He said the City had received an offer to purchase the mobilehome. Since that time, staff had had discussions with the people who manage the park, and staff would be meeting with them next week. He said staff was withdrawing its request for a Closed Session at this time. 3. Mr. Erwin asked that Council adjourn this meeting to 12:00 noon oA Friday, September 2, 1994, for the purpose of reviewing the 2010 Plan and then going into a Closed Session for a personnel matter. C. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL o City Council Requests for Action: 1. Evening Security for Civic Center Park (Councilman Richard S. Kelly). Action: 23 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * • • * • * * * * * * * * * * * * • • o City Council Committee Reports: None XIV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B None XV. COMPLETION OF ITEMS HELD OVER FROM 4:00 P.M. SESSION NOTE: COUNCIL ENDED ITS 4:00 P.M. SESSION WITH NEW BUSINESS ITEM G. ALL OTHER ITEMS WERE CONSIDERED AT THE 7:00 P.M. PORTION OF THE MEETING. XVI. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - C None XVII. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS A. APPOINTMENT TO THE EL PASEO BUSINESS ASSOCIATION BOARD TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE EXPIRATION OF TERM OF GLORIA GREER. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, appoint Mr. Patrick Harkins to fill the vacancy created by the expiration of term of Ms. Gloria Greer. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. B. APPOINTMENT TO THE BUILDING BOARD OF APPEALS AND CONDEMNATION TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF TOM SCOTT. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, appoint Mr. Rod Murphy to the Building Board of Appeals and Condemnation, with the proviso that the appropriate paperwork (i.e., application and conflict of interest statement) be completed and submitted to the City. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. C. APPOINTMENT TO THE CIVIC ARTS COMM), i i tr. TO FILL THE VACANCIES CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF EARLE STONE AND THE EXPIRATION OF TERMS OF JANET BRODY, PAULA KROONEN, AND JOHN NORMAN. Councilman Crites stated that he had a list of applicants to be interviewed to fill these vacancies, and he asked that Council forward to him any other suggestions they might have for interviewees. He asked that Council reappoint Ms. Janet Brody, Ms. Paula Kroonen, and Dr. John Norman to this committee. 24 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, reappoint Ms. Janet Brody, Ms. Paula Kroonen, and Dr. John Norman to the Civic Arts Committee. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. D. APPOINTMENT TO THE PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION TO FILL VACANCIES CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF DENNIS ORSBORN AND THE EXPIRATION OF TERMS OF DOLORIS DRISKEL AND JOHN MARMAN. Councilman Crites stated that Mr. Driskel had been a member of the Commission since 1978 and provided a valuable resource because of the length of time she had served. In addition, Mr. Marman was important because of his position in athletic programs. He suggested that they both be reappointed to the Commission. He said he had a list of applicants to be interviewed for the other vacancy and asked that suggestions for other interviewees be forwarded to him as soon as possible. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, reappoint Ms. Doloris Driskel and Mr. John Marman to the Parks and Recreation Commission. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. E. APPOINTMEII TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION TO FILL THE VACANCIES CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF DIANE COX AND THE EXPIRATION OF TERM OF CAROL WHITLOCK. Councilman Crites asked that this matter be continued to the next meeting and that a time be set up for all the Councilmembers to meet and interview applicants for these vacancies. Council concurred. F. APPOINTMENT TO THE PROMOTION COMMi i i r.z TO FILL VACANCIES CREATED BY THE RESIGNATIONS OF LLOYD CHESTER AND STEVE WARSH AND THE EXPIRATION OF TERMS OF DIANA BROWN, ELIZABETH GREEN, GROVER NOBLES, LOU FEIRING, JIM LOPEZ, ALLAN NYMAN, ROBERT SCHOLL, DICK SHALHOUB, AND PIPER WILSON. Councilman Crites stated that interviews had not yet been set up for these vacancies, and he asked that the matter be continued to the next meeting. Council concurred. G. APPOINTMENT TO THE COACHELLA VALLEY MOSQUITO ABATEMENT DISTRICT BOARD TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF DR. ROBERT ROTTSCHAEFER. Councilman Crites stated that he and Councilman Kelly knew of a potential candidate to fill this vacancy and asked that the matter be held until the meeting of September 8, 1994. Council concurred. 25 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL Mr z i wiG AUGUST 25, 1994- * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *sass * * * * * * * * * H. APPOINTMENT TO THE SISTER CITIES COMIvu i 1 r.= TO FILL THE VACANCY CREATED BY THE RESIGNATION OF GROVER NOBLES. Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, appoint Ms. Isabel Lozano to the Sister Cities Committee to fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Mr. Grover Nobles. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. XVIII. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A TENTATIVE TRACT MAP FOR A RESIDENTIAL CONDOMINIUM PROJECT OF UP TO 136 SINGLE FAMILY UNITS ON 31 ACRES AND A GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT AND CHANGE OF ZONE FROM MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (PR-7) TO PC-2 (DISTRICT COMMERCIAL) ON 9.1 ACRES WITH A PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN ALLOWING FOR UP TO 86,220 SQUARE FEET OF NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING CENTER AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE AND MONTEREY AVENUE, Case Nos. GPA 93-4. C/1 93-4. PP 93-6. and TT 27882, Robert L. Mayer Trust, Applicant (Continued from the Meeting of July 14, 1994). Mr. Diaz reviewed the staff report, noting that this matter had been continued from the meeting of July 14, 1994, in order to enable the applicant to go back and do some redesign and reconfiguration of the project. He said staff continued to recommend approval of the project. Mayor Wilson noted the public hearing was still open. He noted that the motion to continue the matter from the last meeting was for the applicant to come back with a substantially different project, and he said he hoped the applicant would focus on the major changes made. MR. DAVID PAYNTER, Paynter-Willsey Properties, stated that his company was involved, along with Albertson's, in the retail portion of the project and not the residential portion. He said they would not be speaking on the residential at this meeting unless Council had questions. He said the residential did not seem to be an issue at the last meeting, although they had on the most recent plan reduced the residential by one additional lot to provide additional landscaping buffer from the residential to the commercial as an enhancement. He noted that they appreciated the opportunity to make an additional presentation to the Council to go over the enhancements made to the project. He said they felt challenged by both Council and staff in terms of their interest in seeing a quality project and had endeavored to listen carefully to the comments made by each of the Councilmembers and staff and had incorporated those comments as much as possible into the presentation. He noted they had received Architectural Review Commission approval, Economic Development Committee approval, and Planning Commission approval and hoped to obtain Council approval at this meeting. He introduced Mr. Frank Urrutia as the architect for the project. 26 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * MR. FRANK URRUTIA, Urrutia-Prest Architects, reviewed the architecture of the project, noting that setbacks of the landscaping along Country Club had been increased from 27 feet to 39 feet. He noted that there were key landscaping elements at the entrances, such as date palms. He said they were proposing to provide enough landscaping along the building area to screen the loading dock area in the back. Canopy trees would be installed in the parking lot to provide adequate shading for the cars. He noted that adequate screening would be provided to screen the residential areas from the backs of the buildings. Enhanced paving had been added for the entrances and would be carried up into the retail area. A sculpture garden was proposed next to pads 5 and 4; in addition, they were proposing to incorporate additional artwork throughout the site and would include that as an integrated part of the architecture. Artists had been contacted from Santa Fe who did bas relief sculpture as part of architectural work, and it was felt this could enhance the architecture as well as the art program. With regard to landscaping, he said some mitigation measures were proposed along the Monterey Avenue approach to create pockets along Monterey to provide additional tree spots as well as additional landscaping along the sidewalk area. He added that in terms of coverage, landscaping covered approximately 32% of the site. With regard to architecture, he said they were still proposing the same concept presented at the last meeting. Although the site plan had changed from the plan initially presented, the concept would remain as far as type of design. MR. ED SLOMAN, Engineer, addressed Council relative to circulation, noting plans for an additional 20 feet of right-of-way to facilitate an additional free right turn similar to the one at Portola and Highway 111 which they understood was working very well. He noted that the traffic report, in terms of going from an "F" to a "C", did not contemplate Cook Street or a Cook Street Overpass or access to the freeway. He said if the Cook Street Overpass were to come about, it would help the situation at this intersection. He added that two bus turnout lanes to facilitate commuter travel. Mr. Paynter noted the increased landscape setbacks from Country Club Drive to 39 feet which he said exceeded other centers in the community. He stated that since the last meeting, they had met with the owner of Suncrest Country Club and discussed with him the golf cart access, and he had indicated a willingness to put in the curbs, gutters, and sidewalks on the undeveloped land between his project and this center. Mr. Paynter also indicated that the applicant would pay the cost to widen the existing six feet of sidewalk in front of Suncrest to 12 feet, which is the width needed for golf carts. He said they had also met with representatives of Palm Desert Greens to do the same thing from their facility so people will be able to leave Palm Desert Greens in their golf carts and travel to the shopping center without ever having to drive on a City street. He reviewed other amenities that had been added, including additional landscaping, architectural treatments of colored concrete or some other type of paving that would be attractive, a sculpture garden, an additional sculpture near the grocery store, and architectural panels on the buildings as part of the Art -In -Public -Places requirement. He noted that without this project, traffic at this intersection will only get worse, and he felt the project could be a signature development and have a positive impact as people come into the community. He stated that the only opposition at the last meeting 27 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL bur r. L udG AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * was from the owner of the shopping center across the street who was concerned with the need for additional retail in this area. He said they had tried to mitigate those concerns but believed there was a need for an additional ,a „ V .,., store. He suggested that a condition be imposed on the project which would require that for three years they not be allowed to have smaller businesses in the center that would be duplicates of those in the center across the street. They would also have to come back to the Council after that three-year period to have the condition removed. Mayor Wilson invited testimony in FAVOR of this request. The following supported the project: SANDY ROBINSON, 75-618 McLachlin Circle, Avondale. GREG McNIFF, 42-669 Brighton. ANN SCHELTEN, 73-565 Encelia. TIM BARTLETT, resident of and employed in Palm Desert. REX MARLIN, San Tropez. MR. PRUETT, 37 Santa Domingo, Rancho Mirage. Mayor Wilson invited testimony in OPPOSITION. KEN GLASSMAN, President of Friends of the Environment, Palm Springs, read a prepared statement in opposition to the project. He said he was extremely proud of the Council for turning down the Walmart development at this same site. He was concerned with negative impacts of traffic which he felt could not be mitigated to the satisfaction of everyone involved. He also expressed concern about the additional noise, the abundance of neighborhood shopping in the area, the significant commercial zoning on vacant land on Monterey Avenue between Country Club Drive and Interstate 10 for future development, the inadequate size of some of the proposed single family lots, and the reduction in the value of homes by commercial zoning on that corner. He recommended that the Council zealously guard the General Plan, enforce its spirit, and retain the residential zoning at Monterey and Country Club Drive. RAY ELIANTE, 40-088 Silktree Court, Sagewood, asked that there be no zone change and that Council continue to stand firm. JEFF BRANDT, 40-635 Posada Court, owner of a yogurt store in Palm Desert, asked that the property be left as it is currently zoned. Felt that the City needed a strong, successful small business community as opposed to another shopping center. JOHN WESSMAN, 72-200 Clancy Lane, Rancho Mirage, said this was not a matter of whether the project is well designed or not because the City of Palm Desert would make sure it was a well designed project. He said it was truly a matter of zoning and the General Plan. He spoke in opposition to the zone change. 28 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * SANFORD SKLAR, Suncrest Country Club, stated that prior to buying into Suncrest nine years ago, he had checked to make sure the area was zoned residential and also checked the Master Plan for Palm Desert. On that basis and on the basis that staff advised that zone changes were very rare, he decided to purchase in Suncrest. He expressed concern that changing the zoning would initiate other attacks aimed at changing the Master Plan. He said he applauded the residential aspects of the project but deplored the commercial part, and he asked that the Council not grant the zone change and maintain the residential character of Country Club Drive. TOM SIANI, 39-490 Regency Way, a merchant in Monterey Plaza Shopping Center, stated that business was down in the last three years and that he was downsizing his business. He said his hope for the future was that the area across the street would be developed as residential. MS. PINA FACELLA, 77-713 Baron Circle, spoke as a tenant of Plaza de Monterey and agreed with Mr. Siani. HOWARD FLEISHMAN, merchant in Plaza de Monterey, stated that any additional competition would be very difficult for these small merchants. BILL CARVER, landlord of Plaza de Monterey, stated that his understanding was that this matter had been continued so that a plan could be presented to the Council that was substantially different from the one at the last meeting. He said he had seen another ten feet of landscaping and a slight reduction in square footage but no substantial change to the overall concept of the commercial portion of the project. He said the City had its North Sphere where it can really do some long range planning and come up with plans that can be lived up to over the years as development occurs. He said that since the North Sphere Plan was adopted and Lucky Store went in, there has been no other residential construction taking place anywhere near this intersection. In addition, the Ralphs center had gone into the same area, and he said there had been an increase of supply of retail but not in the demand for it. Mayor Wilson invited REBUTTAL. Mr. Bartlett stated he had gone door to door to talk to people about this development and until today was only aware of three people who were opposed. He resubmitted 32 letters in support of the project. Mr. Paynter stated he did not think it was fair on the part of those who felt Council had made a commitment when it turned down the Walmart project. He said this was a neighborhood project while the Walmart development was a regional project. Mr. Robert Mayer, Newport Beach, spoke as owner of the ra and showed Council a 1976 photograph of Palm Desert and this before he purchased it in early 1978. He said he wanted to clear up the idea that he would make a windfall profit on this development. 29 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL 11MMr r, i m G AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * s.* * * * * * * * * * * s * * * * * * * * * * s * He noted he had sold the in 1980 for the same amount he had paid; nothing developed on the land, and when he realized that Monterey Avenue would continue to I-10, it appeared there might be a potential use for commercial some time in the future, and he purchased it again for a much higher price in 1986. He said he was hoping to at least break even and to build something he and the City could be proud of. He added that he felt they had done everything possible to abide by Council's wishes. Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing cloct. Councilman Crites stated he would like to address the issue of the zone change first. He briefly reviewed the history of the zoning for the area. He stated that Council could amend the General Plan based on: 1) Existing zoning cannot be used (which he said he did not think was true in this case); 2) determination of a need for such a change. He said he had no doubt that the center would be successful, and he agreed Albertson's was a quality product and would do a quality job. However, he said he had not yet seen demonstrated the compelling need for more commercial. Councilman Kelly stated that the General Plan was just that - a plan — and it should change as circumstances change. To stick with a plan just because it is a plan can sometimes be a mistake. He said he felt changing the zoning was a very serious thing, has to give something back, and cannot be something that adversely affects the environment or quality of life. He said he would not want to live at the corner of Monterey and Country Club and doubted that many people would. He said he felt this was a matter of designing something that does not adversely affect people who live around it or other citizens in Palm Desert. One way to do that would be to do a project like this one where there are residential units surrounding the commercial and mitigate the impacts of the project on those residences. He added that a lot of time had been put into this project, and one of the things that swayed him on the project and the zone change was the developer's willingness to do something that would attract a different mode of transportation which he felt would be a tremendous improvement in the quality of life for people who live in areas such as Palm Desert Greens and Suncrest Country Club. He added that this would also be good in light of the requirements the City has down the road for alternative transportation. Councilmember Benson agreed that some of the improvements made were good; however, she felt very strongly that there must be a compelling reason to change the zone, and she did not see such a compelling reason at this time. She did not feel there was a compelling need for another supermarket nor an additional 126 homes when there are homes in every project for sale in every area of the City. She added that she was not in favor of this project at all. Councilman Snyder stated he did not have a problem voting against the Walmart project because it took up the entire area and backed up to existing development. He agreed there was a problem at this corner that must be improved somehow. This development would put $1.5 million into improving the corner. The developer has also agreed today not to take any 30 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * business from across the street, and he said this had been one of his concerns. He said he felt the project had more pluses than minuses. Councilman Wilson stated he felt this was an outstanding development team that had gone the extra mile to try and design something that is not just a regular shopping center, something with aesthetics and lots of appealing amenities to it. However, he had not been convinced that residential cannot go on that corner. He noted both The !Aces and Desert Falls which are at busy intersections that will become even busier when the Cook Street Interchange is completed. He also did not see a compelling reason to change the zoning. He said he felt Albertson's would do well here, but it would do well by taking existing grocery shoppers that are going to Ralph's, Lucky, Von's, etc. and redistributing the wealth to this store. He felt it would be dangerous to amend the General Plan to add more commercial at a time when there are vacant spaces throughout the City. He noted that there were many times in the past when the City has told a developer it would love to have them if they would go to a commercial site; i.e., Walmart. He added that when the Lucky center went in, there was a feeling of "wouldn't it be awful if we had shopping centers at all four corners". He said if he were on the Rancho Mirage City Council and saw Palm Desert go commercial on both sides of the intersection, he would go to commercial on the Rancho Mirage side also. Upon question by Mayor Wilson, Mr. Erwin stated that if Council so wished, it should direct staff to prepare a resolution denying the General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone and bring it back to the Council at its next regular meeting. Mayor Wilson reopened the public hearing at the request of the developer. Mr. Sloman stated that there would still be the tentative map even if Council denies the General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone. He asked if Council could at this time approve at least the residential portion that had been submitted. Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing closed. In response to Mr. Sloman's request, Mr. Diaz stated that staff s concern was whether the applicant accepted all of the conditions on the resolution pertaining to the tentative tract map. Councilman Crites noted that the lot size on the tentative tract map was larger than required by the zoning, and this was a tradeoff made by the developer for the commercial. He said his suggestion would be that the tentative tract map be neither accepted nor denied at this time and that it be considered as a separate item from the General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone. Mr. Sloman stated that he wanted to be sure that if the Council voted to deny the General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone at this time, the tentative tract map would still be something that could be considered. 31 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * s s * * * s s s s s s s* s s s s s s s s s s s s s* s s* s Councilman Crites moved to continue consideration of Tentative Tract Map 27882 to the meeting of September 8, 1994. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by unanimous vote. Councilman Crites moved to deny the request for General Plan Amendment and Change of Zone. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Kelly voting NO. With Council concurrence, Mayor Wilson called a recess at 10:00 p.m. and reconvened the meeting at 10:05 p. m. B. REOUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION/FONSI (FINDING OF NO SIGNIFICANT IMPACT) FOR THE PROPOSED CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW CONNECTION TO INTERSTATE 10 (I-10) AT THE PLANNED NORTHERLY EXTENSIONS OF COOK STREET IN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT AND CHASE SCHOOL ROAD IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY. Mayor Wilson declared the public hearing own. Mr. Folkers noted the staff report in the packets and offered to answer any questions. Mayor Wilson invited testimony in FAVOR of or OPPOSE]) to this request. No testimony was offered, and he declared the public hearing closed. Councilman Crites noted that ten years ago the City set out a fee for the lizard preserve out in this area. An audit had finally been done, and the City of Palm Desert came out very well. He stated there had been an issue with Palm Desert having to do with us in the past assessing those fees on the number of acres that would actually be disturbed rather than the entire acreage, and he asked staff to address this. Mr. Folkers responded that he and Mr. Diaz had discussed this and noted that the fees charged are based on the project size. Mr. Diaz added that even the Marriott paid on everything. Mr. Folkers noted that staff would check into this to make sure the City is doing it correctly. Councilman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 94-97, adopting the Mitigated Negative Declaration/FONSI (Finding of No Significant Impact) and the associated Mitigation Monitoring Matrix for the proposed project. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote. XIX. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - D None 32 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 1994 * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * XX. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by Crites, second by Kelly, and unanimous vote of the Council, Mayor Wilson adjourned the meeting at 10:23 p.m. to 12:00 noon on Friday, September 2, 1994, for the purpose of reviewing the 2010 Plan and then going into a Closed Session for a personnel matter. ATTEST: SHEILA R (G.LIGAN, CITY CL CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA OY WILSON, MAYOR 33