HomeMy WebLinkAbout1998-04-09MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, APRIL 9, 1998
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I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor Pro Tempore Spiegel convened the meeting at 4:00 p.m.
H. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Councilman Jim Ferguson
III. INVOCATION - Mayor Pro-Tempore Robert A. Spiegel
IV. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilman Buford A. Crites
Councilman Jim Ferguson
Councilman Richard S. Kelly
Mayor Pro-Tempore Robert A. Spiegel
Excused Absence
Mayor Jean M. Benson
Also Present:
Ramon A. Diaz, City Manager
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, Director of Community Affairs/City Clerk
John Wohlmuth, ACM/Director of Administrative Services
Carlos L. Ortega, RDA Executive Director
Pat Conlon, Director of Building and Safety
Phil Drell, Director of Community Development
Paul Gibson, Finance Director/City Treasurer
Joe Gaugush, Engineering Manager
John Nagus, Community Arts Manager
Teresa LaRocca, Housing Programs Coordinator
V. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel welcomed Suzie Harvey, the new Chamber of Commerce Executive
Director, to the City Council meeting.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING APRIL 9, 1998
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MR. GARDEN HEPBURN, 72-915 Skyward Way, Palm Desert, addressed the Council and stated
that when he purchased his home, he had made it very clear that the ability to park his mini -motor
home was a top priority. He said his realtor had come down to City Hall at his request and had
returned with a copy of the Vehicle Code which stated the only requirement at that time was that the
vehicle be moved every 72 hours. He said while looking for a home in Palm Desert, he had noticed
many trailers, recreational vehicles, boats, etc., and he thought Palm Desert was RV -friendly. He
noted That during the three and a half years he had lived at this address, he had parked his motor
home on the street in front of the residence and had received approximately four courtesy notices,
two of which noted the 72-hour requirement to move the vehicle. He added that in November, Mr.
Hart Ponder and Mr. Pat Bedrosian had come to his home and advised that someone had complained
about having to walk around the parked motor home, and they offered suggestions on how to solve
any future problems. He said he was encouraged to go to the Planning Department the following
Monday; he did so, and Mr. Steve Smith advised that it was his feeling a permit was unlikely to be
issued and that he would be in compliance simply by moving the vehicle every 72 hours. He stated
that he had indicated more than once that he was willing to build something on his property that
would allow this to meet the requirements. He was given a copy of the recreational vehicle
ordinance and he said he could not see how such vehicles could do anything to health and safety or
bring down the appearance or property values in the neighborhood. He added that he was asking for
help so that he could comply with the regulations. He noted that as requested, he had come to the
City and obtained a parking permit and was advised that residents are allowed six of these permits
per year for a total of 18 days, 72 hours at a time. He expressed concern that if he were to construct
something acceptable to the City, this would not be a very realistic time period. He said he was also
given a copy of the Vehicle Code by which the City is now going to enforce the ordinance, and it
indicated that "the ordinance shall not apply until signs or marking giving adequate notice thereof
have been placed." He noted that he had never seen any signs in the single-family residential areas,
and the ordinance appeared to be intended for commercial or multiple dwelling areas, someplace
where signs can be placed. He asked that the City extend some sort of courtesy and cooperation,
especially with regard to a more realistic time period to allow him to construct something on his
property.
MR. RICHARD CROMWELL, III, General Manager, Sunline Transit Agency, 32-505 Harry Oliver
Trail, Thousand Palms, 92276, addressed Council and stated that he would like an opportunity to
speak to New Business Item D relative to the renewable hydrogen transportation system for the City
of Palm Desert. He said since his initial meeting with Councilman Crites several months ago, he
had visited the Schatz Energy Research Institute in Humboldt with Economic Development Manager
Paul Shillcock. He said he had met with the hydrogen team and had seen the car which was a shiny
red and should be available for the Council to see in the next few weeks. He said as word got out
that there was conversation that perhaps the hydrogen production facility would be moved to Sunline,
he had received a telephone call from the Air Quality Management District (AQMD), and it appeared
that the Clean Air Now project, currently located in El Segundo, California, at the Xerox facility,
was also being asked to relocate. He said the AQMD felt it might be interesting to bring this
together with the Schatz hydrogen unit and make it a really interesting project. He said as a result
of these conversations, he had attended the 9th Annual Hydrogen Conference in Vienna, Virginia,
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and was able to meet the hydrogen community. He also had an opportunity to meet with two deputy
secretaries of the Department of Energy who were very enthusiastic with both the presentation and
the team (consisting of the Clean Air Now team, the Schatz team, Palm Desert's representative,
Sunline, and Sunline Services Group). As a result of that positive meeting, Sunline hosted a meeting
of the project team that works riot only with the Schatz research group but also with Clean Air Now.
He said the Department of Energy was working toward bringing Schatz to Sunline, bringing Clean
Air Now to Sunline, maximizing the amount of hydrogen that can be produced by both projects,
with that hydrogen keep Palm Desert fueled with its own fueling station, reactivate the Palm Springs
Airport project on hydrogen and other related things at the airport yet to be determined, and begin
the process of mixing hydrogen with compressed natural gas (15 % hydrogen to natural gas). He said
he had flown to Montreal to look at two buses that Frank Lynch and company had put together with
a French consortium, and they had made a very attractive offer to take over that project which would
tie in with the whole fuel network. He said College of the Desert was excited because it had an
opportunity to activate another training module in hydrogen. He said if Council approves the item
on the Agenda, he was prepared to make a presentation to the Sunline Board. He added that the
bottom line was that the Coachella Valley thinks the enterprise of the City of Palm Desert would
become the center of hydrogen activity in the United States of America. He congratulated the City
on its foresight and stated that Sunline was happy to be a small part of this.
Councilman Kelly stated that the previous day at RCTC he was advised that one of the demonstration
projects being funded by Congress and the Senate was $1 million for fuel cell buses for Sunline
Transit Agency.
VI. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of March 26, 1998.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Nos. 48, 49, and
49PD Office Complex.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. : ' ' : • • ‘._FQILLCOHOLT_C BEYERAGF`T.TC:F.NSR by Wok Restaurants, Inc. For
City Wok, 73-040 El Paseo, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Pangaea Coffee for Pangaea
Coffee, 72-286 Highway 111, Suites J3 and J4, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
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E. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Karl Joseph Cranford for —
Wise Sports Club, 73-600 Alessandro, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
F. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Virginia S. Criste from the Palm Desert Parks and
Recreation Commission.
Rec: Receive with sincere regret.
G. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Wayne Connor from the Palm Desert Art -In -Public -Places
Subcommittee.
Rec: Receive with sincere regret.
H. PORTFOLIO MASTER SUMMARY for the Period Ending February 28, 1998.
Rec: Receive and file.
I. MINUTES of the Investment & Finance Committee Meeting of February 18, 1998.
Rec: Receive and file.
J. MINUTES of the Golf Course Committee Meeting of February 9, 1998.
Rec: Receive and file.
K. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST from Jim Pearce, Owner of Cove Condo Rentals, for
Exemption from New Transient Occupancy Tax Paperwork Requirement for Completion of an
Additional "Exemption Report".
Removed for separate discussion under Section VII, Consent Items Held Over. Please see that
portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and action.
L. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Charitable Contributions/Outside Agencies Committee
Recommendation for Funding for the Coachella Valley Trails Council.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the Charitable Contributions/Outside Agencies
Committee recommendation for funding in accordance with the 1997/98 budget for
the Coachella Valley Trails Council in the amount of $3,500.00 and authorize the
Mayor to execute the agreement between the City and the Coachella Valley Trails
Council.
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M. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Rescission of Contract No. C14070 and Approval of
Contract No. C14330 for Haute Nites, Cool Sounds 1998 Summer Concert Series.
Rec: By Minute Motion, rescind Contract No. C14070 with "Swing Savant" in the amount
of $2,000.00 and approve Contract No. C14330 with singer Joannie Sommers in the
amount of $2,500.00.
N. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Rescission of Contract No. C14050 and Approval of
Contract No. C14340 for Haute Nites, Cool Sounds 1998 Summer Concert Series.
Rec: By Minute Motion, rescind Contract No. C14050 with "The New Frontier Band" in
the amount of $1,000.00 and approve Contract No. C14340 with "Coyote" in the
amount of $900.00.
O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to the Emergency Vehicle Pre-Emption
System Contract (Contract No. C12920).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve Change Order No. 1 to Contract No. C12920 for the
additional wire needed due to the eroded wire for the subject project in the amount
of $4,249.44; 2) authorize the transfer of $4,249.44 from contingency to base.
P. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. C12920 - Emergency Vehicle
Pre-Emption System (Project No. 558-97).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the City Clerk to file
a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
Q. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION of Utility Relocations for Presidents' Plaza West.
Rec: By Minute Motion, appropriate funds from the Presidents' Plaza account for utility
relocations consisting of: 1) $2,410.28 to Southern California Edison (SCE) for final
costs of relocation of underground vault, subject to further documentation; 2)
$5,558.00 to Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) for fire hydrant relocation.
R. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of a Contract with Culbertson, Adams & Associates for
Preparation of a Focused Environmental Impact Report in Connection with the Proposed
Development of a 12-Acre Parcel, "The Laliberte Property", Located between the Canyons at
Bighorn and the Bighorn Institute (Contract No C14350).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute a contract with Culbertson,
Adams & Associates in an amount not to exceed $90,000 for EIR preparation to be
paid from a trust deposit from property owner.
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S. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST from Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy for
Funding in the Amount of $5,000.00 to Provide the City with Services and Information.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request and authorize payment of $5,000.00 to the
Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy for services and information and direct
staff to forward the request to the Promotion Committee with authorization to include
an additional amount of $5,000.00 in its budget for Fiscal Year 1998-99.
Councilman Kelly asked that Item K be held for separate discussion under Section VII, Consent
Items Held Over, of the Agenda.
Upon motion by Kelly, second by Ferguson, the remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved
by unanimous vote of the City Council.
VII. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
K. CONSIDERATION OF RECIFST from Jim Pearce, Owner of Cove Condo Rentals, for
Exemption from New Transient Occupancy Tax Paperwork Requirement for Completion of an
Additional "Exemption Report".
Councilman Kelly stated that he felt if a person has the same information on his/her computer
and printout as required, it did not seem right that the City would require that he/she do extra
work just to accommodate the City. He said it seemed so often that government requires the
private sector to do something that makes the government's job easier, and it did not matter
whether the private sector spent three or four times as much time doing it. He said he wanted
to make sure that this was not what the City was doing.
Councilman Crites asked whether Mr. Pearce had seen this report and whether he had been
given an opportunity to respond to it. He said Mr. Pearce had very specifically requested the
opportunity to address the Council on this issue in his letter.
Ms. Gilligan noted that Mr. Pearce was mailed an agenda and a copy of the staff report for this
meeting.
Councilman Kelly stated that he would feel more comfortable if staff made sure Mr. Pearce
knew he had an opportunity to address the Council.
Councilman Kelly moved to continue this matter to the meeting of April 23, 1998.
Mr. Paul Gibson asked if he should comment on other questions or concerns of the Council
with regard to this matter.
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vote.
Councilman Kelly suggested that the entire matter be discussed when Mr. Pearce is at the
meeting.
Councilman Spiegel suggested that staff meet with Mr. Pearce in the meantime and perhaps get
the matter resolved before it comes back to Council.
Mr. Gibson stated that he had had a number of conversations with Mr. Pearce who basically
insisted that it was his way or no way.
Councilman Crites seconded the motion to continue this matter, and the motion carried by unanimous
At a later point in the meeting, and with Council consensus, further discussion was held
relative to this matter because Mr. Pearce had arrived at the meeting.
Councilman Spiegel noted that Mr. Pearce was the owner of Cove Condo Rentals and had
written the letter to the City relative to the reporting requirements. He noted that this matter
had been continued by the Council to the next meeting, but he thanked Mr. Pearce for
appearing to discuss this matter.
Mr. Pearce, 75-715 Altamira, Indian Wells, stated that he had just received notice of this
meeting because the staff report had been sent to one office and then sent to him via inter -office
mail. Upon question by Councilman Spiegel, he said he had spoken with Finance Director
Paul Gibson briefly via telephone.
Councilman Crites asked whether Mr. Pearce had had an opportunity to read Mr. Gibson's
staff report before the Council, and Mr. Pearce responded that he had done so.
Mr. Pearce stated that he had been doing business in the City of Palm Desert for the last 15
years and had paid transient occupancy tax and been audited every year. He said to his
knowledge, all of those audits had gone very smoothly. He said between the two companies,
over $160,000 in occupancy tax had been paid. When he received the new requirements, he
had asked someone on his staff to investigate it with the City, and the answer came back that
he must use the new forms. He said he called Mr. Gibson and requested a meeting to sit down
and work something out and was told the only recourse would be to go to the City Council.
He said he had gone to great lengths to try to number code and color code the information on
the new City forms versus the information on the forms produced by his computer, and he felt
all of the information was there. If there was information that was missing or needed to be
refined or fine-tuned or restated in some way within the limits of their capability, reason, and
good business judgment and practice, he said he would certainly do his best to try and do so.
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Councilman Spiegel noted a suggestion by Councilman Crites that Mr. Pearce be asked to meet
with the City Manager and Finance Director to try to work this out and bring it back to the
Council if this cannot be done.
Mr. Pearce agreed to meet with the City Manager and Finance Director.
Councilman Ferguson stated there was a suggestion that forms be given to Mr. Pearce on a
computer disk. He asked if Mr. Pearce had a program that generates these reports.
Mr. Pearce responded that he did have a program that generates the reports and all the data in
a format that has been satisfactory to the City for years. Upon question by Councilman
Ferguson, he stated that the program was called First Resort software.
Councilman Crites suggested that the City's Information Systems Manager also attend the
meeting with Mr. Pearce to see if something could be worked out. Mr. Gibson suggested that
the auditor also attend, and Council concurred.
Mr. Gibson asked if this matter could be continued for one month instead of one meeting.
Councilman Crites moved to reconsider Council's previous motion and ask that this matter be
continued to the meeting of May 14, 1998. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote.
VDT. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 98-38 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, DECLARING THE CITY'S INTENTION TO FORM THE
PRESIDENTS PLAZA BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, AND THE LEVY AND
COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 7 OF
DIVISION 18 OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE AND CALLING
FOR AN ASSESSMENT BALLOT PROCEEDING TO SUBMIT TO THE QUALIFIED
PROPERTY OWNERS WITHIN SUCH DISTRICT THE QUESTION OF ESTABLISHING
AN ASSESSMENT RANGE FORMULA FOR SUCH DISTRICT AND LEVYING SUCH
ASSESSMENTS FOR SUCH DISTRICT.
Mr. Gibson reviewed the staff report, noting that Resolution Nos. 98-38, 98-39, and 98-40
were all related to this District. He noted the Management District Plan in the packets and
stated that this involved the Presidents Plaza Parking District. He stated that when Proposition
218 came about, the City asked MuniFinancial to review all the districts to be sure the City is
in compliance with Proposition 218. In its review, MuniFinancial determined that Presidents
Plaza was not in compliance in the sense that a landscaping and lighting district does not
normally have 95 % of its cost being trash versus being landscaping and lighting costs, and the
City needed to form a new district appropriate for this. He said staff had sent to all property
owners a petition and a management plan with an explanation of what the City is planning to
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do; 58% of the property owners voted in favor of this proposal. He said both a public meeting
and a public hearing would be held, and property owners would receive notification of those
meetings. He added that a ballot had also been sent to property owners so that they can vote
prior to the public meeting. He noted that another step would be to form or use an existing
committee that includes a business owner or property owner, and he suggested that the El
Paseo Merchants Association be utilized for that purpose since it is already in existence and
already includes business owners. He added that he had mentioned this to Association
President Sonia Campbell who did not express any concerns with doing so. He offered to
answer any questions.
Upon question by Council, Mr. Gibson responded that negative comments had been received
from two property owners. One owner felt the cost of the trash was too high and that the
larger property owners were getting a higher benefit. He said staff had advised the owner that
if this district were not formed, it would be necessary for each business to have its own trash
bin, and this would result in approximately 200 trash bins, which would not be feasible. He
said the other choice was to have an association formed by the business owners, and it would
not be much less expensive than what will be provided by this district.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution Nos. 98-38, 98-39, and
98-40. Motion was seconded by Crites with a note that he assumed staff was letting property owners know
— that if they did not wish to have this district, they could form an association and take care of this themselves.
Mr. Gibson responded that staff had advised owners of the option to form an association rather
than have an assessment district.
Councilman Ferguson stated that he would vote in favorwithout taking a position because he
was curious to see what the property owners' vote would be.
Motion carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
B. RESOLUTION NO. 98-39 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, DESCRIBING PROPOSED IMPROVEMENTS AND
SERVICES AND APPROVAL OF THE PRELIMINARY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT
PLAN REGARDING THE PROPOSED FORMATION OF THE PRESIDENTS PLAZA
BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT, AND THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF
ASSESSMENTS, PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART 7 OF DIVISION 18 OF
THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE.
See discussion and action under Resolution No. 98-39.
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C. RP -SOLUTION NO. 98-40 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, INITIATING PROCEEDINGS FOR THE FORMATION
OF THE PRESIDENTS PLAZA BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT AND THE LEVY
AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS PURSUANT TO THE PROVISIONS OF PART
7 OF DIVISION 18 OF THE CALIFORNIA STREETS AND HIGHWAYS CODE.
See discussion and action under Resolution No. 98-39.
IX. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
None
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 871 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ORDINANCE NO. 107, THE PALM
DESERT ZONING MAP, BY CHANGING THE ZONE FROM SINGLE FAMILY (R-1) TO
OFFICE PROFESSIONAL (O.P.) FOR THREE PROPERTIES LOCATED ON THE WEST
SIDE OF PORTOLA AVENUE, STARTING 140 FEET NORTH OF ALESSANDRO
DRIVE, Case No. C/Z 98-1.
Mr. Diaz stated that there had been no changes since introduction of this ordinance, and he
recommended its adoption.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 871. Motion was
seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote.
X. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE PERIMETER
WALL AT THE SOUTH COURSE AT DESERT WILLOW (Contract No. C13810).
Project Administrator Rudy Acosta reviewed the staff report, noting that this was a
continuation of the perimeter wall recently completed at the North Course. He said four bids
had been received, and the lowest bid as determined by staffs review of the submittal
documents was from John Barajas Masonry, who was also the contractor who built the North
Course wall. He said staffs recommendation was that the contract be awarded to John Barajas
Masonry.
Upon question by Councilman Spiegel, Mr. Acosta responded that Barajas Masonry was
located in Bermuda Dunes.
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Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Enter into an agreement with John Barajas
Masonry in the amount of $469,438.03 and authorize a ten percent contingency in the amount of $46,943.80
for the construction of the perimeter wall at the South Course of the_Desert Willow Project; 2) appropriate
the contract amount from Account No. 400-4663-454-4001. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by
unanimous vote.
B. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED ASSESSMENT DISTRICT AND
FINANCING (JOINT MATTER WITH THE PALM DESERT FINANCING
AUTHORITY) .
Mr. Diaz stated that Mr. Ortega was available to answer any questions.
Mr. Ortega reviewed the staff report, noting two resolutions for Council/Financing Authority
consideration. He said this involved creation of a new assessment district for the project at
Bighorn and also involved the hiring of certain people to proceed with the Series B bond issue
for the current Bighorn project. He offered to answer any questions.
Councilman/Commissioner Crites moved to: 1) Waive further reading and adopt City Council
Resolution No. 98-41, initiating proceedings and making certain designations in connection with a proposed
assessment district; 2) waive further reading and adopt Financing Authority Resolution No. FA-2$, making
certain designations in connection with a proposed assessment district financing. Motion was seconded by
Kelly and carried by unanimous vote.
C. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED MOBILE HOME PARK
CONVERSION ORDINANCE.
Mr. Erwin asked that the Council consider continuing this to the next regularly scheduled
meeting. He said he would like to look at this to see if there are other alternatives available.
Councilman Kelly moved to continue this matter to the Council meeting of April 23,1998. Motion
was seconded by Ferguson and carried by unanimous vote.
D. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF RENEWABLE HYDROGEN TRANSPORTATION
SYSTEM FOR THE CITY OF PALM DESERT.
Mr. Diaz noted the report and staff recommendation in the packets and stated that Economic
Development Manager Paul Shillcock was available to answer any questions.
Councilman Ferguson asked whether the City Manager was satisfied with the answers he got
in his memorandum of April 2, 1998.
Mr. Diaz responded that he was satisfied.
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Councilman Ferguson asked what the concern was with regard to Blurock.
Mr. Diaz responded that his concern was to make sure the City is not overpaying for the work
that was done, and there was still a question as far as he was concerned. However, he said
staff would like to proceed with this approval.
Councilman Spiegel asked whether staff would recommend approval, with the funds to not be
expended until the concern with Blurock is cleared up. Mr. Diaz agreed.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the hydrogen generation facility, per
the contract with South Coast Air Quality Management District, to be sited at the Sunline Transit Agency
facility in Thousand Palms, California; 2) appropriate $200,000.00 from unobligated reserves to cover costs
pursuant to the contract with South Coast Air Quality Management District (Contract No. 960551), subject
to the City Manager's release. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by unanimous vote.
Councilman Crites stated that he felt it was appropriate to extend congratulations to City staff.
He said had the City not started this program, there would have been nothing for Dick
Cromwell of Sunline Transit Agency to add on to. He said congratulations should go to City
staff for its persistence in getting this accomplished.
E. TNFORMATIONAL ITEMS:
1. Update on Interchanges:
a. I-10/Washington Street
b. I-10/Monterey Avenue
Mr. Diaz stated that the interchanges were proceeding on schedule.
2. Progress Report on Retail Center Vacancies
Mr: Drell stated that the Business Support Manager had an update on the leasing
activity at the Gardens of El Paseo.
Ms. Ruthann Moore addressed the Council and stated that staff felt since we are
approximately six to seven months out for the opening of this property, it should
update the Council on the leasing activities. She distributed and reviewed a site plan
showing signed leases for the stores highlighted in yellow (on file and of record in
the City Clerk's Office), including Ann Taylor, Thomas Kinkade Galleries, Johnson
& Murphy, Talbots, Tommy Bahama's Tropical Cafe & Emporium, Brooks
Brothers, Davinci, Bennetton Sports System, Eddie Bauer, Williams Sonoma, BB1,
Watch Your Wrist, Banana Republic, Sammy's Woodfired Pizza, and Sullivan's
Steakhouse. She said the total square footage for executed leases was 69,335 square
feet. She noted that areas highlighted in pink were leases out for signature and were
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currently off the market for any other negotiation while leases are pending. She said
the square footage total for leases out for signature was 33,431 square feet. She said
this amounted to a total square footage for specialty area leasing of approximately
150,000 square feet, with 102,766 square feet now in play. She added that a tenant
coordinator had been hired and had met with her and Mr. Drell to begin bringing
appropriate information to the City for building individual stores. She noted that
plans were to have a site manager hired by the summer to be at the location, and the
Saks opening was scheduled for November. She offered to answer any questions.
3. Progress Report on Utility Deregulation
Mr. Wohlmuth stated that on April 10, 1998, discussions would continue with
Imperial Irrigation relative to the JPA. He added that a meeting was scheduled for
April 13, 1998, relative to the Cove Commission's work, and there would be eight
firms submitting proposals for the Cove Commission aggregated load. He offered
to answer any questions.
XI. CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XII. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR CONSIDERATION OF DE ANZA WAY NEIGHBORHOOD TRAFFIC
CONTROL PLAN.
Mr. Gaugush noted the report and recommendation in the packets. He stated that, to date, no
significant change had been noted in traffic conditions along De Anza as a result of the
installation. He said two responses had been received, one in favor and one in opposition, and
that reduction in speed along De Anza had been insignificant. He added that at this point in
time, it was staffs intent to seek additional input from residents through a mailing campaign.
Councilman Kelly moved to receive and file the report. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried
by unanimous vote.
XIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Update on 911 Dispatch Center.
Mr. Diaz stated that updates relative to the 911 Dispatch Center would be given to
the Council during the police briefings held prior to the first City Council meeting
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of each month unless something comes up between those meetings that needs to be
reported to the Council.
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING TWO ITEMS WERE LISTED ON AN AGENDA ADDENDUM AND
POSTED 72 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
2. Report and Request for Relocation of Parkview Office Building Conference Room.
Mr. Diaz stated the Mr. Conlon was available to answer any questions the Council
might have. He noted the report from Mr. Conlon in the packets.
Mr. Conlon reviewed his report and stated that the previous Friday he met with
Councilmen Ferguson and Kelly, Kelly Kennedy of CVAG, Mr. Diaz, and Interior
Designer Leigh Ann Vuksic relative to this conference room. He said an idea was
suggested at the meeting to look at the existing space next to the current conference
room. He said this was a vacant, unimproved space that has never been leased out
in the building, with a square footage of approximately 1,300 square feet, and he felt
it would be a superior solution to the existing conference room which was a difficult
shape to furnish. He said he had spoken with a contractor at the request of Mr. Diaz
to see what it would cost to improve the existing vacant space. Mr. Doug Wall
estimated that it would cost approximately $25,000. He said Mr. Diaz had also
asked him to put together four different levels of interior designed furnishings for the
space, and this was done by Leigh Ann Vuksic. He asked for Council's direction in
this regard and stated that staffs recommendation would be to improve the new
space.
Councilman Ferguson stated it was his understanding that levels one through four
included wall coverings, cabinets, and carpet in addition to the furniture, and Mr.
Conlon agreed. Councilman Ferguson asked whether these figures were for the total
cost of improvements, not just levels of furniture prices. Mr. Conlon responded that
levels one through four included furniture, wall coverings, and floor coverings;
however, it was still necessary to do basic improvements such as the ceiling,
electrical, etc. in the amount of approximately $25,000.
Councilman Spiegel questioned the square footage of the current conference room
and said it looked to be a little less than the unoccupied space. Mr. Conlon
responded that he would find out what the square footage is. Councilman Spiegel
asked if it would be difficult to lease the conference room since it is a difficult shape.
Mr. Conlon responded that he felt it would be difficult to lease.
Councilman Ferguson stated that there were two major tenants in the building who
use the conference room. He said the largest commercial tenant there, CMA, a
health care marketing firm, conducted classes in the conference room. He said the
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Councilmembers had all been to CVAG meetings and were familiar with the
configuration of the conference room. He said a lot of the problems encountered had
been in converting the conference room from a classroom use to the CVAG use and
moving the tables, which in turn has destroyed the carpets. He said he and
Councilman Kelly spoke with representatives of CVAG about using the larger
conference room for CVAG purposes and having it available on a joint access with
the City of Palm Desert for overflow conference space. He said Councilman Kelly
mentioned the option of exchanging that for possibly a 20-year lease with CVAG to
make sure they stay in the building and enjoy those improvements, and the City
enjoys the benefit of having its regional form of government in the City of Palm
Desert for a long time to come. He noted that CVAG Executive Director Corky
Larson had indicated she would trade all the improvements just to be able to have a
room large enough to comfortably seat all the City Managers, all the different
representatives from the City, and members of the public all in one room. He said
he felt whatever level of furnishings the Council chooses, it will make the existing
commercial tenant very happy by using that space for a classroom.
Councilman Spiegel stated that the original concern was the amount of money that
was going to be spent on the furnishings, and now the amount is higher. He asked
when the current CVAG lease would expire.
Mr. Gibson responded that his recollection was that it would expire in five years.
Councilman Kelly stated that he felt the City could use the income we have from the
building to do this kind of work.
Councilman Spiegel asked if it would pay for itself, and Councilman Ferguson asked
whether revenues from this building would pay for these improvements over time.
Mr. Gibson responded that the revenues from the building totalled approximately
$320,000 per year.
Councilman Crites stated that if the City is going to try make sure CVAG and other
agencies make a long-term commitment to this, it seemed that the City should make
a long-term commitment to the quality of what goes in the conference room. He said
it would get a lot of use, and people would use it just as they do furniture in any
public place. He said he felt level three seemed to be the best without going to
leather chairs.
Councilman Kelly stated that the existing conference room was provided for all of
the tenants, but the new conference room would be exclusively used by CVAG and
the City of Palm Desert. He said that would also provide the opportunity to take
much better care of the furniture.
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Councilman Spiegel asked if CVAG would be charged any additional rent.
Councilman Kelly responded that he felt there should be no additional rent because
this would provide a nice conference room for the City to also use. In addition, it
would be an advantage to keep CVAG in this location and will save on time and
gasoline when attending meetings.
Councilman Crites stated he felt the City had an obligation as the host city for CVAG
to provide this at a level which other cities would be asked to do if CVAG was
housed within their jurisdiction. He suggested coming back within a specific time
period to see how much use the existing conference room actually receives; if it is
not being used much, then the Council could look at renting it. If it is getting a lot
of use, then perhaps the Council will do something else.
Councilman Ferguson stated that he felt it was also an issue of fairness to the other
tenants because one of the perks given to all tenants in that building was use of the
conference room; however, between CMA and CVAG there was, for all practical
purposes, no alternate time to use it. He said the Council would actually be making
this available to all tenants as promised. In terms of paying for the space, he said if
we could lock up CVAG under a long-term lease and guarantee they will stay in
Palm Desert, and add up all the trips the Council would save just being able to walk
across the parking lot instead of having to drive to another jurisdiction, there was
enough benefit there for him.
Councilman Spiegel asked if part of the recommendation would be that the CVAG
lease be extended for 20 years.
Councilman Ferguson responded that the recommendation would be that a long-term
lease is negotiated with CVAG.
Mr. Diaz asked if Council wished for staff to proceed after an agreement is reached
for the extended lease or simultaneously.
Councilman Spiegel stated he would like this to be done after securing a minimum
20-year lease with CVAG.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute motion, direct staff to discuss this matter with CVAG and
then proceed once a satisfactory long-term lease is reached.
Councilman Spiegel asked what would be considered a satisfactory long-term lease,
and Councilman Kelly responded that it would be brought to the Council to
determine the number of years.
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Mr. Diaz stated that staff would begin this process and hold the other contracts
pending Council's approval.
Councilman Kelly suggested that he and Councilman Ferguson go with staff to
discuss this matter with CVAG Executive Director Corky Larson.
Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by unanimous vote.
3. Report and Request as a Result of the Desert Willow Golf Resort Course Tour.
Mr. Acosta reviewed the staff report, noting that the Council met the previous
Thursday to walk the desertscape portions of the Desert Willow North Course to
review the conditions of the desertscape. He said there had been a number of
discussions as to problems that had occurred during the first year of operation, what
the specific problems were, what some of the remedies were that were applied, what
were some of the continual problems that needed to be addressed, and what the
desired look should be. He said it was agreed that what was not being sought was
a finely manicured look and that instead what was desired was to create the
desertscape and allow the desert to do its thing. He said there had been some
misunderstanding and misinterpretation of that direction with respect to what had
been communicated to the maintenance staff for the operator. He said it was now
understood that from now on, it was desired that the desert would be able to
propagate itself. In other words, if pods from the mesquite trees fall, they are left
where they fall, and the same would hold true for occasional broken cane, an
occasional broken arm from a cholla, etc.
Councilman Ferguson stated that the human damage done would be repaired, and
Mr. Acosta agreed and said trash would be picked up and cart damage repaired
immediately.
Councilman Ferguson stated it had been brought to his attention that the perimeter
landscaping was altogether wonderful and delightful and a rather attractive magnet
for theft by landscapers who see a cheap opportunity to get a nice specimen in
connection with the project. He asked if any measures had been taken to try to
minimize the prospect of such theft.
Mr. Acosta responded that no such measures had been taken. He said the desert look
had been limited to the high impact areas. He added that discussions had been held
relative to ongoing security patrol in the area and that we would be taking over the
perimeter at the end of May and would have to have either their presence or the
presence of an independent contractor at that time.
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Councilman Crites stated that it was nice to see the information from Bighorn
Country Club because the gist of what the Council was receiving said that the
desertscape was becoming more expensive per acre to maintain than the turf. He
said it was nice to see that Bighorn, which had had a number of years of experience,
had desertscape which cost approximately twenty percent per acre of what their turf
area cost. He said he wanted to make sure people do not start to think that
desertscape is a more expensive proposal than turf but that they understand it is
tremendously less expensive in maintenance, water use, fertilizer use, etc.
Councilman Spiegel asked whether this was just an informational item or if staff was
requesting specific Council action.
Mr. Diaz responded that staff was requesting consensus of the Council relative to the
level of maintenance of the landscaping.
Councilman Crites moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the "natural look" desertscape rather than
a specimen look for Desert Willow Golf Resort. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by unanimous
vote.
With Council concurrence, additional discussion relative to Consent Calendar Item
K was held at this time. Please see that portion of the Minutes for discussion and —
action.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Mr. Erwin requested a Closed Session at an appropriate time for the items shown on the City
Council Agenda and Redevelopment Agency Agenda.
1) Report and Action on Items from Closed Session Made at This Meeting.
2) Request for Closed Session
Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Section 54956.8:
a) Property: Lease Property - Parkview Professional Office Buildings,
73-710-720 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, CA 92260
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: City of Palm Desert/Paul S. Gibson, Finance Director
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Other Parties: Eagle Crest Energy/Arthur W. Lowe, President
Under Negotiation: _x. Price Terms of Payment
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b) Property: 7.5 acres at the southeast corner of Portola Avenue/Silver Sands Way
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: City of Palm Desert/Phil Drell, Director of Community Development
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert -
Other Parties: Damone, Inc./Tim Bartlett, U.S. Home/Mark Pearce
Under Negotiation: Price Terms of Payment
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation pursuant to Government
Code Section 54956.9(a):
a) City of Palm Desert v. REFCO Capital Corporation, et al, United States
District Court, Central District, Case No. CV92-7632
b) City of Orange, et al. V. Alabama Treasury Advisory Program, et al., Los
Angeles Superior Court Case No. BC106461
Significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9 (b):
Number of potential cases:
C. CITY CLERK
None
D. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
1. Consideration of Request from Richard Milanovich, Chairman of the Tribal
Council of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, for Resolution in
Support of Tribal Self -Sufficiency and Economic Development (Mayor Jean
Benson) .
Mr. Erwin stated that the Council had a policy that it see both sides of an issue,
and he asked that Council allow him time to look at this proposal. He said the
proposal questioned the Pala Compact which was approximately 150 pages in
length. He said he would need some time to review this and respond to the
Council.
Councilman Spiegel stated that CVAG had received this addition to the
Executive Committee Agenda requesting CVAG's support of a Tribal
resolution. The decision was made at CVAG that each city would take this back
to their respective Councils for consideration.
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Councilman Ferguson stated that he had begun looking into this. He said the
Pala Compact was 135 pages long, and he had not yet had a chance to read it.
He showed a statement from the Governor and stated that it seemed very
reasonable when you read it but that it contrasted with the statement from the
Indian tribes which also seemed reasonable when you read it. He said for the
Council to be thrown into a position of choosing between the Governor and the
local tribes by initiative and sending it to all the members of Congress by way
of resolution required more time than had been given to it so far.
Councilman Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of May 14, 1998.
Councilman Ferguson asked if the City Attorney could provide an estimated cost
on providing the analysis.
Mr. Erwin responded that he would have this information for the Council at its
next meeting.
Councilman Ferguson asked whether the Council should be spending taxpayers'
money to consider affairs of the State and the Federal government which really
do not concern the citizens of Palm Desert.
Councilman Spiegel disagreed and said he felt this did concern the citizens of
Palm Desert. He said the tribes are reaching out their hands to become a bigger
part of the community. He said the tribes were part of and becoming an
economic force in the Coachella Valley. He added that he felt the City should
be supportive of the tribes wanting to become part of the Coachella Valley. He
noted that one of the items to be considered at the next CVAG meeting was the
issue of whether the tribes should become an ex-officio member of CVAG,
attending the Executive Committee, Transportation Committee, etc., so they
know what is going on in the Valley and CVAG knows what their plans are.
Councilman Ferguson stated that his point was that the tribes were in a very
complex legal argument with the State of California, and the City is being asked
to be in on that argument at considerable cost and attorney time to analyze and
understand the document. He suggested that the City take the position that this
is between the tribes and the State, that the City wishes the tribes well, but that
the Council feels it is inappropriate for local taxpayers' dollars to be contributed
to this.
Councilman Ferguson moved to continue this matter to the meeting of April 23, 1998, and ask the
City Attorney to prepare a supplemental report relative to the estimated cost to do this. Motion was seconded
by Kelly and carried by unanimous vote.
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2. Consideration of SB1851
Councilman Kelly asked that this be added to the Agenda as an emergency item because the
committee hearing in Sacramento will be held before the Council has another meeting. Motion was seconded
by Crites and carried by unanimous vote.
Councilman Kelly stated that SB1851 was the legislation that would allow the
Riverside County Transportation Commission to reorganize, with every city in
the County to have a representative. He said all five County Supervisors would
also be represented. He noted this had been supported by the CVAG Executive
Committee, by RCOG Executive Committee, and by Riverside County
Transportation Commission. He asked that the Mayor be directed to write a
letter of support of this legislation and mail it to Senator Kopp and Senator
Kelley.
Councilman Ferguson asked whether there was any opposition to this bill.
Councilman Kelly stated that the City of Riverside had taken a neutral position
but that all of the cities were very much in support.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, direct the Mayor to send letters to Senator Kopp
and Senator Kelley in support of SB1851. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by a 3-0-1 vote, with
Councilman Ferguson ABSTAINING.
o City Council Committee Reports:
1. Councilman Crites stated that several months ago Council asked that staff look
through last year's award -winning ideas from the League of California Cities
that were published in Western Cities magazine and to bring back several that
were felt might be worthy of implementation.
Mr. Diaz stated that he would try to have a report back to the Council at its next
meeting.
2. Councilman Ferguson stated that he liked the Council tracking list and being
able to see what the staff follow-up is. He said it had been invaluable in letting
Council know the hard work staff is doing. However, he said several meetings
ago Councilman Crites noted the distinction in geographical limitations for the
State of California being a triggering point for reporting travel on behalf of the
City's employees was artificial and ineffective. He said he thought Council had
given direction at the time that members be apprised monthly of all employees
traveling out of the area.
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Councilman Spiegel agreed and said his understanding was that the report was
to have been for overnight travel.
Mr. Diaz stated that it had been his understanding that this was to be for out of
State travel.
Mrs. Gilligan asked if this was to be for out of State travel for staff only or if
it was to include Council also.
It was Council's concurrence that this report be for out of State overnight travel
for staff and Council.
Councilman Crites moved to adjourn the meeting at 5:20 p.m. to Closed Session to consider items
listed on the Agenda, said Closed Session to be held following consideration of the Redevelopment Agency
and Financing Authority meetings. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by unanimous vote.
Mayor Pro Tempore Spiegel reconvened the meeting at 7:00 p.m.
XIV. COMPLETION OF ITEMS HELD OVER FROM 4:00 P.M. SESSION
None
XV. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION TO WAYNE CONNOR FOR HIS SERVICE TO THE COMMUNITY AS
A MEMBER OF THE ART -IN -PUBLIC -PLACES SUBCOMMITTEE.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Councilman Crites presented an engraved clock to Mr.
Connor and expressed the community's appreciation for his many efforts with regard to the
City's Art -In -Public -Places program.
B. PRESENTATION TO THE IDYLLWILD MOUNTAIN COMMUNITY PATROL IN
APPRECIATION OF ITS EFFORTS ON BEHALF OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT.
Councilman Crites presented a plaque of appreciation to representatives of the Idyllwild
Mountain Community Patrol. He thanked them for their efforts in keeping Highway 74 so
beautiful.
A representative of Supervisor Wilson and Supervisor Venable presented a proclamation to the
Community Patrol on their behalf and also on behalf of the Riverside County Board of
Supervisors thanking them for their efforts in keeping Highway 74 free of graffiti.
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XVI. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CONSIDERATION OF THE FORMATION OF LA PALOMA II LANDSCAPING AND
LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT.
Mr. Gaugush reviewed the staff report, noting that there had been no changes in the Engineer's
Report. He said ballots had been received representing 100% support of the subject district.
He said staff recommended that the Council adopt Resolution Nos. 98-42, 98-43, and 98-44
following the public hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel declared the public hearing and invited testimony in FAVOR of or
OPPOSED to this request. No testimony was offered, and he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Crites moved to: 1) Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 98-42, declaring
the results of a property owner protest proceeding and approving related actions; 2) waive further reading and
adopt Resolution No. 98-43, approving the final engineer's report as presented or amended; 3) waive further
reading and adopt Resolution No. 98-44, ordering the levy and collection of assessments for La Paloma II,
Fiscal Year 1998-99. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by unanimous vote of the Council.
XVII. ADJOURNMENT
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel stated that Mr. Wayman wished to speak to the Council relative to
Resolution Nos. 98-38, 98-39, and 98-40 which were considered by the Council during the 4:00
p.m. session and which he did not know were going to be discussed.
Mr. Gibson stated that he had advised Mr. Wayman that he would be notified as soon as a public
hearing is scheduled.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel stated that the Council had not approved the Presidents Plaza Assessment
District with adoption of the resolutions. This action was to go out to the people who are part of the
Assessment District and ask them to vote. The matter would then be before the Council as a public
hearing where everyone would have an opportunity to participate.
MR. W. J. WAYMAN, 75-370 Fairway Drive, Indian Wells, stated that he had written a letter
indicating his displeasure with the proposed assessment district. He said he felt the City had bitten
off a pretty good chunk to undertake handling the trash pickup in this district. He submitted
photographs which he said indicated that the equipment is in very poor repair, and if the City is
going to take this on, it would have the responsibility of keeping the areas clean and keeping the
equipment in better condition than shown in the photos. He said he also objected to the manner in
which the City had decided to make the trash assessment, which was on the basis of square footage
of the building. He said he felt this had absolutely no bearing on the trash created by occupants of
the building, and if the City is going to do this, it needed to have a better understanding of the trash
pickup business. He submitted photographs indicating the "utter mess" of the trash bins being
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overstuffed. He said some people needed to have their trash picked up three times a week, where
others needed it five times per week and still others only once a week. He suggested that the City
figure out a way to place this responsibility on the property owners to deal with the trash company.
He also submitted photographs which he said indicated the failure of someone in the City to keep
track of the water systems to irrigate the area (all photos on file and of record in the City Clerk's
Office).
Upon motion by Ferguson, second by Kelly, and unanimous vote of the City Council, Mayor Pro
Tem Spiegel adjourned the meeting at 7:10 p.m.
66
SHEILA R. GIL!AN, CI LERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, ALIFORNIA
ROBERT A. SPIEGEL, TC�O TEMPORE
A. SPIEGEL, '7RI O TEMPORE
24