HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001-05-25MINUTES
ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL
AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FRIDAY, MAY 25, 2001
9:00 A.M.
ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES CONFERENCE ROOM
I. CALL TO ORDER
Mayor/Chairman Ferguson convened the meeting at 9:05 a.m.
11. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember/Member Jean M. Benson
Councilman/Member Buford A. Crites
Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Richard S. Kelly
Councilman/Member Robert A. Spiegel
Mayor/Chairman Jim Ferguson
Also Present:
Carlos L. Ortega, City Manager/RDA Executive Director
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, Asst. City Manager for Community Services/City Clerk
Richard J. Folkers, Asst. City Manager for Development Services
Homer Croy, Director of Building & Safety
Phil Drell, Director of Community Development
Paul S. Gibson, Director of Finance/City Treasurer
Teresa La Rocca, Director of Housing
Joseph S. Gaugush, Director of Public Works/City Engineer
David Yrigoyen, Director of Redevelopment
Patrick McManus, Chief of Police/Riverside County Sheriffs Department
John McLaughlin, West Desert Division Chief - Riverside County Fire Department
Ruth Ann Moore, Business Support Manager
Rachelle D. Klassen, Deputy City Clerk
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
None
MINUTES
ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, Mayor/Chairman Ferguson adjourned
the meeting to Closed Session at 9:05 a.m. He reconvened the meeting at
10:35 a.m., with no action announced from Closed Session.
IV. NEW BUSINESS
A. CONSIDERATION OF THE PRELIMINARY CITY MANAGER'S FINANCIAL
PLAN FOR FISCAL YEAR 2001/02.
Mr. Gibson explained the overall program, noting that for the General Fund
between revenue and interfund transfers -in, a total of just over $33.3 million
for General Fund Revenues. For expenditures, he said it amounted to
$33,502,141. He noted that $390,000 of expenditures would use equipment
replacement reserves. Each year money is set aside for vehicle and
equipment replacement; therefore, he reported the columns were in balance.
He called attention to the beginning balance for all funds of $90,569,280 and
ending as of June 30, 2002, with $65,925,847, the decline attributed to the
undertaking of capital projects. He went on to state areas of concern for the
budget:
1) Economy has slowed, Fed has raised interest rate by two percent in
the last six months, with continued uncertainty predicted; therefore
sales tax was conservatively calculated with only 1.5% growth.
Estimated $13.5 million of sales tax for 2000/01 was based on the
first three quarters of the year.
2) Unknown impact of energy crisis. City consultant MRC (Municipal
Resource Consultants) reported four large companies have left
California due to the situation. Concern for El Paseo stores.
3) Tax Increment increased by two percent (normal growth).
4) State budget may eliminate backfilling of DMV fees.
5) At preparation of the preliminary budget, it was believed
Redevelopment Agency bonds would be issued in June for all the
new capital projects; it was uncertain when that would occur.
Therefore, Redevelopment projects were contingent upon bond
issuance.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
In response to question, Mr. Gibson answered that for Project Area No. 1,
it was planned that between $18 - 20 million of bonds would be issued.
Mr. Yrigoyen added it was dependent upon taxable or non-taxable status.
Upon further question, Mr. Gibson said the estimated $37 million worth of
bonding capacity was based upon a build -out of The Canyons at Bighorn by
2004. However, presently it had to be calculated upon current status and
that projected in the next couple of years. Mr. Yrigoyen explained that bonds
had to be issued by December 31, 2003.
Councilman/Member Spiegel commented that sales tax for the mall in the
smaller stores was anticipated to drop 10% because of the stores that would
leave during the renovation. He said Robinsons May anticipated a decline
when it begins expansion next spring; Macy's and Penney's did not expect
an effect. Further, he said in talking with Marriott's Tim Sullivan, they did not
project any increase in sales and resulting T.O.T. for next year. With regard
to the DMV in lieu fee, he asked why it was up approximately $100,000 when
he thought it was going down.
Mr. Gibson explained that it was backfilled from the State's general fund.
The problem would occur if the State decided against doing that; about two-
thirds of the revenue would be lost. In further response, he said Plan Check
fees were based upon a conservative approach (same as used last year).
Upon question, Mr. Gibson stated that the account named "Reimbursement
from Non -Government Parties" reflected funds received from entities such
as The Gardens on El Paseo for reimbursement of the traffic signal
installation. He said it was typically a one-time type of revenue and not
recurring, usually related to a capital project.
Mr. Gibson went on to say that as far as General Fund, a CPI of 2.2% had
been factored into salaries, as were merit increases. He said January's 15%
increase was figured into health premiums; there was nothing calculated as
far as potential changes that may occur in January 2002, no forecast was
given by CaIPERS. He explained that there were five new positions
allocated in the new budget, $45,000 was added to workers compensation
and liability premiums based on the retro adjustment for past history, and
capital outlays were up $494,000.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Responding to question, Mr. Gibson confirmed that the $2 million for UCR
would be treated as a loan, it was shown as an expenditure for budgeting purposes.
Consideration of White Papers - Personnel
In response to inquiry and for purposes of explanation, Mr. Ortega and staff
provided the following information.
Addition of Finance Department Office Assistant (Finance Department)
When Business Support was moved to the North Wing, it was believed the
Office Assistant position in that division would be able to assist with
licensing. However, that did not happen; therefore, Finance now needs a
position specifically for that purpose. Additionally, the Business Support
Manager and Technician positions were transferred to the Redevelopment
Agency to handle that aspect of economic development; and one Technician
position was eliminated in the reorganization.
Addition of Information Systems Technician (Finance Department)
In order to provide the necessary level of support to City Hall, Desert Willow,
the Sheriffs and Fire Departments, another position is required.
Desert Willow and the City will fund the position 50/50. Also need to
implement provisions of the IT Study.
Addition of Redevelopment/Housing Construction/Maintenance
Inspector (Redevelopment Agency)
Position approved by the Council/Agency Board approximately two months
ago, this would officially create. Will work predominantly with Housing
Authority properties to ensure all maintenance and repairs are moving
forward in a timely and efficient manner. The $1.2 million retrofit of One
Quail Place has just begun; significant resident interaction is critically
required, as is direct work with the management company to integrate all the
above. Further, Catalina Gardens will soon undergo the same treatment,
and there is an ongoing need for such attention to ensure City's/Agency's
needs are receiving response in the field. As more properties are acquired,
position will be even more beneficial.
Community Gardens concept has been discussed for Las Serenas, and the
management company was asked to consider. There is an area at the rear
of Las Serenas that has potential for gardening.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Addition of Public Works Landscape Inspector
Responding to concern that more landscape inspection was necessary,
especially with ongoing new construction, this position is requested.
Addition of Parks and Recreation Intern (Planning Department)
The position would be a full-time position, similar to the one-year term
position created for Art In Public Places. (Existing IRS regulations and case
law [requiring comparable pay and benefits] preclude the City from hiring
temporary employees for as long a term as is necessary to meet the
objectives.) Position would require a college degree or equivalent
experience in the recreation field. Due to the present project demands
(e.g. regional park), it was felt a position was needed to accomplish as much
as possible in a year's time; more evaluation would be made near the end
of the term to determine its future.
❖With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, staff was directed to provide more
information, including salary survey from the Coachella Valley Recreation & Park
District on comparable positions.
Reclassification of Accounting Assistant to Accounting Technician
(Finance Department)
Pursuant to a previously conducted classification study, this request is in line
with the prescribed series of position steps within a department or division.
The position in question has met the requirements for reclassification, it is
presently performing at a level above that required for an Accounting
Assistant (e.g. Department presently implementing new GASB 34
regulations, position is assisting with redoing all financial models to comply).
Estimated total cost of $10,000 is for the range; employee would be raised
to the next appropriate step that is 5% above their present.
Reclassification of Building Inspector Supervisor to
Building Inspector Manager (Building & Safety Department)
Name change only. The position supervises eight positions —
Senior Inspectors and Inspectors and monitors daily reports/analysis done
by each. Brings position in line with comparable positions Citywide, no
change in compensation requested, job responsibilities remain same.
as Denotes items requiring additional Information or future follow-up for Consideration of the Final Budget at the meeting of
June 28, 2001.
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MINUTES
ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Reclassification of Code Compliance Supervisor to
Code Compliance Manager (Building & Safety Department)
Name change only. Supervises seven positions. Brings position in line with
comparable positions Citywide, no change in compensation requested, job
responsibilities remain same.
Reclassification of Code Compliance Officer to Senior Code
Compliance Officer (Building & Safety Department)
Would provide back-up support to Supervisor's position. As Code
Compliance is an ongoing operation, important to have sufficient back-up
and coverage for supervision. Promoting position to Senior level would
allow for training in management skills.
"Golden Handshake"— when Business License and Code Enforcement were
combined, there were three employees, Frank Allen, Wayne Ramsey, and
Bob Smith, who retired under a "Golden Handshake." After that, position
restrictions had to be put in place in order to show that a substantial salary
savings was realized. Position upgrades could not be considered until a set
period of time elapsed and audit requirements were met. The time period
has passed, and the audit was completed; staff now has clearance to
request upgrades.
Reclassification of Senior Office Assistant to Code Compliance
Technician (Building & Safety Department)
Considerable review has been made on this request. Present employee
performing duties way outside the clerical classification— serving Court
papers, producing warrants, researching information for Code Compliance
Officers in preparation for their appearance on Court cases.
Recommendation is to reclassify position to Technician and leave an Office
Assistant (downgrading it from present) position allocated/unfilled until such
time as it is necessary in the future. Cost will be nominal (less than $2,000).
Reclassification of Rehabilitation Construction Specialist II to
Senior Rehabilitation Construction Specialist (Redevelopment Agency)
Position has taken over responsibility of the Commercial Facade
Improvement Program; position previously assigned (Business Support
Technician) was eliminated. There are presently 12 Commercial Facade
projects in process— one project in progress, four applications being
processed, and seven pending. Interest was predicted to increase once the
first few were underway. This position also oversees the Home Improvement
Program, which has grown considerably.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Reclassification of Senior Rehabilitation Construction Specialist to
Construction Contract Specialist (Redevelopment Agency)
It was noted that this and the previous position were aligned with those
comparable under Code Compliance. Employee has undertaken increased
responsibility far beyond that prescribed in present classification
(e.g. remodel of Civic Center North Wing; work with Housing Authority
properties in major retrofits underway or soon to be, as well as new
construction [Palm Village Apartments, Apartments on Santa Rosa]).
Salaries for the Rehabilitation Construction positions were based upon
surveys of other cities' comparable positions, as well as keeping them in line
with the City's own Code Compliance position series.
Reclassification of Landscape Manager from Job Grade 730 to
Job Grade 760 (Public Works Department)
Since the position's creation, it has evolved to include a number of different
activities, including Environmental Conservation Programs, increased
number of Inspectors and a Landscape Specialist.
Reclassification of Engineering Technician to Senior Engineering
Technician (Public Works Department)
Current employee is performing out of class— providing a number of support
functions for the Department and other departments.
Reclassification of Streets Maintenance Supervisor from Job Grade 520
to Job Grade 620 (Public Works Department)
Requested based upon a comparative study of positions in similar markets.
Reclassification of Parks Maintenance Supervisor from Job Grade 520
to Job Grade 620 (Public Works Department)
Requested based upon a comparative study of positions in similar markets.
Upon question about a Public Works -related issue, Public Works staff
confirmed that the City of Palm Desert had already started installing energy
efficient bulbs in its traffic signals two years ago.
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MINUTES
ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Reclassification of Public Relations Coordinator to Marketing Manager
(Community Services)
When position created, set it at a low classification. Employee has assumed
more and more responsibility, and the job continues to grow, hence the
request to reclassify.
Police/Sheriffs Contract
Basic Service Level requested and recommended for 2001 /02. Program is
well funded, well supported, and it was decided that the next year will
provide an opportunity to evaluate staffing and deployment. Motor Program
(motorcycles) is anticipated to be successful; therefore, may request
additional officers in 2002/03; they're presently writing many tickets and
receiving much notoriety.
•:•With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, staff was directed to forward to the
City Council/Agency Board the Monthly Motor Program report provided to Public
Safety Commission.
Fire Department
Standards are developed by the National Fire Protection Association
(NFPA); currently considering a mandate for four persons per apparatus —
standards are advisory in nature. Fire officials recommended continuing the
process that was begun last year, adding a third person to each engine —
Cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells went ahead, while Palm Desert
approved the addition of a paramedic instead. The Cove Commission has
voted to continue with additional staffing; there are three stations in
Palm Desert, each engine currently has two people, and the request was to
add a third person to each; would require hiring nine people. League of
California Cities is opposed to the NFPA standard of four people;
Chief McLaughlin wrote a letter on behalf of the Cove Communities,
opposing the four -person standard and advocating local control-- basing
appropriate staffing on individual need. Fire Department felt the
three -person standard was viable and met the safety standards needed to
safeguard both firefighters and the public. Cove Commission, as well as
Palm Desert's Public Safety Commission, recommended approval of the
three -person level. Indian Wells already approved its portion of the funding,
and Rancho Mirage had placed the funding in their budget. A majority of the
calls within the cities were responded to by Palm Desert units (64% of all
calls in all three cities), and they were currently at a lower staffing level than
the other two. Fire Department felt that the proposed staffing level would
carry the City and the rest of the County, which was moving to the same
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
level, well into the 21 st Century; no additional staff would be needed in the
foreseeable future due to the existence of built-in fire protection systems and
Palm Desert's policies. City's share of the cost would be approximately
$331,042; projected increases in the next fiscal year budget for Structural
Fire Tax and Redevelopment Pass -through appear to be sufficient to cover
the additional increase. The County has entered into a six -year plan to
increase staffing of all County stations to three persons per engine, and in
the next fiscal year, the two stations that benefit Palm Desert (Thousand
Palms and Sun City) will be upgraded to that level; they provide services on
mutual aid response (e.g. the Costco and Washington/I-10 areas). Noted
that Palm Desert paid for half the cost of the third person added last year by
the other two cities; on the other hand, Indian Wells and Rancho Mirage paid
their proportionate share of the added paramedic in Palm Desert, which
served their needs as well.
Mayor/Chairman Ferguson commented that last year, a simulated drill was
performed by a truck company with two persons and with three persons, and
he estimated a 30-40 second difference in the time taken to unroll a hose,
attach to a hydrant, and begin suppressing a fire. He said OSHA required
that before two firefighters enter a structure, two have to be outside. Going
from two to three didn't increase the ability to enter a structure, and in
comparing the 30-second time difference to the cost associated with it, City
Councilmembers Kelly and Ferguson felt the funds would be better spent on
another paramedic and an ambulance. The most recent fire had 17 trucks
respond from all three cities.
Chief McLaughlin explained that the two in/two out issue allowed for multiple
company response (i.e. an ambulance and an engine were sent, with two
people on the engine and two in the ambulance, totaling the required four).
The fifth person would provide the ability for set-up, performing the initial
layout of hoses, rescue, or whatever needed to be done, and the fifth person
would be a company officer that could do command and control, organize
the rest of the incoming units, and establish an efficient operation. On the
medical aid side, the fifth person was very vital on a significant call like one
requiring CPR. The fifth person could provide relief, get more equipment,
handle paperwork of patient history, consolation for the family, assist with
patient packaging for rapid transport— a very synergistic effect on staffing for
both EMS and fire.
♦s Denotes Items requiring additional information or future follow-up for Consideration of the Final Budget at the meeting of
June 28, 2001.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Consideration of White Papers - Equipment/Misc.
BUILDING & SAFETY
• Replacement of Permit Printer
Council/Agency Board concurred that this item should be included in final FY 01/02
Budget ($3,000).
• Workstations for Reorganization of the Department
Council/Agency Board concurred that this item should be included in final FY 01/02
Budget ($40,000).
• Conferences/Seminars/Workshops
Department found a severe education deficiency for Building Inspectors,
Plan Reviewers, and Building Officials, as mandated by the State. AB 717
was adopted some time ago, requiring 45 hours of continuing education
through a three-year cycle, to keep up with the current issues, laws, and
newest safety practices. Mr. Croy worked out a formula based on number
of staff, estimated cost of a seminar per day, hotel per day (an estimate and
not needed for any seminar less than one day), meals; it would take
approximately four seminars per year to keep staff updated at an estimated
cost of $1,660 per person x 13 staff members = $21, 580; estimated local
workshops (CVAG or other local) at $4,000. Such training was offered in the
area from San Diego to Santa Barbara. It was explained that since the State
at this time had elected not to adopt the latest International Code, most
training was some distance away, a good share of it out of state; but the
requirement for education remained.
Council/Agency Board concurred with expenditure for placement in final FY 01/02
Budget.
• New Computers and Replacements
Currently in the process of negotiating with the Supervising Plans Examiner;
this position will, in an appropriate amount of time, be reducing the need for
outside consultants to perform plan checking. Therefore, computers and
programs are needed to assist with the plan check process (e.g. engineering
programs, energy conservation programs to verify efficiency).
Council/Agency Board concurred with expenditure for placement in final FY 01/02
Budget.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
• Project Management Training
It was felt that Project Management Training should be continued, in Tight of
the significant projects planned for the future.
Council/Agency Board concurred with expenditure ($19, 600) for placement in final
FY 01/02 Budget.
•Proposed Guidelines/Funding Multi -Family Improvement Program
(MFIP)
Prepared in response to Council's/Agency Board's desire to see a program
developed for loaning funds to private property owners. This would also
assist with the Housing Compliance Plan; generating more participants from
the private sector in order to create more low-, and moderate -income
housing.
In response to question, it was confirmed that the Home Improvement
Program (HIP) received approximately $200,000 in Community Development
Block Grant (CDBG) funding annually, and it was used as fast as it was
received. The subject program was a component of the HIP program, the
eighth or ninth component. It requested 20% Set -Aside Funds and would be
used to assist small, multi -family property owners to make certain authorized
improvements, to the extent that the property has 50% of tenants that meet
the income criteria, then the loan would be at 3%; if 20% of tenants meet
income criteria, then the loan would be at 5%. Program designed as a 10-
year payback program; will not assist with the Stipulation, but it will count
towards the RHNA production and will show work that is being done to assist
with the Stipulation. There are adequate Set -Aside Funds to fund this
program.
Council/Agency Board concurred that the program be placed in the final FY 01/02
Budget.
• Marketing Collateral Plan for Redevelopment Agency
Since Business Support was moved into the Redevelopment Agency, the
various pieces of marketing collateral there had been reviewed, revealing
that some of the information was outdated. Staff proposed updated versions
of the brochures for the Redevelopment Agency, Housing Programs, Facade
Improvement and Home Improvement (HIP) Programs to be closely
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
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PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
coordinated with the Relocation Guide and other materials being produced
through the Promotion Committee.
Council/Agency Board concurred that the request be placed in the final FY 01/02
Budget.
Mayor/Chairman Ferguson asked when interviews would be conducted for
the new Assistant City Manager for Redevelopment/Economic Development
and Housing, as he felt that person's input would be important to the
aforementioned process. Mr. Ortega stated he would provide
Council/Agency Board Members with that information.
❖With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, staff was directed to provide a time
line for the application/interview/hire date of the Assistant City Manager for
Redevelopment/Economic Development and Housing.
• Shopper Hopper
Ridership for 2000 was 22,107; and in 1999 there were 21,576 riders.
Increased numbers were due to use of the Shopper Hopper at the Battle at
BIGHORN. A four -month survey was conducted: 78% of riders made a
purchase while using the Shopper Hopper; 12% used it to connect to other
SunLine systems; 10% of use for going to work. There were three
recommendations from staff:
1) Wrapping the Trolleys— identification problem— looks exactly like the
other SunLine buses, recommend marketing campaign where trolleys would
be wrapped along with changed signage to identify them from other SunLine
services. Plan to work with AIPP Commission to develop a similar art
program to that of City of Pasadena's, make buses interesting, fun, inviting,
and show artwork on different tours.
2) Formation of Ad Hoc Committee to Review Next Contract— as a result of
the survey conducted, believe some changes need to be made to the routes,
adding in some areas, cutting in others.
3) Maintenance Issues— batteries for the electric trolleys are expensive;
City's trolley was not running at the time of the writing of the report being
considered. Now other two trolleys down; currently, running program with
29-foot CNG bus. If batteries are not replaced in the trolleys, they will no
longer run.
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
City owns one trolley, other two owned by SunLine; City is required by the
Federal grant under which they were written to operate them for a certain
number of years. If they are not run, the proportionate share of the grant will
have to be repaid.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Kelly acknowledged the problems; however,
felt many riders depended upon the service, and if eliminated,
repercussions would be great. He agreed that the image problem was
exacerbated by the fact that the electric trolleys were unreliable and a
regular SunBus often had to be used for the service; zero emission batteries
were difficult to maintain in the desert. In his travels, continually looked for
a vehicle that would provide the dependability and visibility needed to make
the program a stand -out; while most other cities had trolleys, Palm Desert
should have something different. Had located one manufacturer that
produced a short-range, shopper -type vehicle; well-built, fueled by natural
gas, minimum 25-year Iifespan, provided easy access (could be lowered for
wheelchair access from street). While not inexpensive, felt the money
should be spent for a couple of dependable units; could have the wrap
applied to make it special. Long Beach waterfront area used such a unit, the
Orion II (same company that manufactures the natural gas buses now being
used), leadtime possibly as long as two years, hopefully less. Therefore,
need to run the existing units through the grant period (about two years),
meaning batteries would have to be purchased, and it would be worth putting
a wrap on those units for that length of time. This would also provide time
to figure out the Tong -range plan.
In response to question, there were no literature racks on the units currently;
however, staff proposed placement of racks for information from the Visitor
Information Center, including its retail offerings, as well as information on the
various shopping centers on the route.
To explain the ownership and funding behind the Shopper Hoppers, Mayor
Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly said the City had looked for extra
Shopper Hoppers and was prepared to pay for them, working with SunLine.
It was learned that there was a transportation agency back east that had
received a grant and purchased two electric buses (cost $200,000); even
though they were purchased for approximately $20,000 each, the City was
obligated to that agency's $200,000 grant for one more year. The third unit
was owned by the City outright. Two units would be sufficient if they were
reliable; a regular bus could provide back-up. It was, therefore, suggested
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MAY 25, 2001
that the two units under grant be kept, making the necessary repairs and/or
improvements to them, and eliminating the third unit.
Councilman/Member Spiegel believed that if a schedule of one or two pick-
ups/drop-offs per day was designed for the hotels, it would increase
ridership and attract shoppers to Palm Desert's retail.
Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly said the headway there and back
diminished the value of such service. He suggested that if that type of
program was desired, a different type of bus should be utilized. He added
that Indian Wells' hotels formed their own association; a brochure was
designed, and in the summer it offered a summer package of
accommodations and golf. He recalled that the hoteliers were brought
together and agreed to contribute to producing a schedule, as suggested,
but when the time came, the hotels didn't pay.
Councilman/Member Spiegel felt the Indian Wells' hotels would participate
in a package for shopping.
Ms. Moore commented that there was going to be a large number of hotel
rooms coming up in the City's North Sphere— the Convention Center,
Marriott's properties and the timeshare projects.
Mayor/Chairman Ferguson observed that he didn't believe the ridership
justified the expenditure; however, he understood Mayor Pro-TemporeNice
Chairman Kelly's position that the service couldn't just be taken away.
Therefore, he felt a marketing benefit should be obtained from the service;
it shouldn't go to Art In Public Places but should create an image for
promotion of the City's shopping district.
•:•City Council/Agency Board Members concurred for FY 01/02 budgeting purposes
that: 1) The trolley owned by the City be eliminated and the two under grant funding
be refurbished in order to utilize them through the life of the grant; 2) staff was
directed to obtain more information on the Orion 11 units for the program's future.
Mrs. Gilligan explained that the Art In Public Places Commission (AIPP) had
been considering the idea as a way to help people see the City's art, having
someone on the bus to explain it, and that was the origin of the art wrap
notion. She felt that was a good idea, if it was supported by the Promotion
Committee as well as by AIPP.
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Councilmember/Member Benson added that if that was the direction the
program was now going— switching to a marketing focus, someone needed
to explain that to AIPP Commissioners.
Mayor/Chairman Ferguson suggested the program be referred jointly to the
Promotion Committee and the AIPP Commission; the bus needed to be
recognized as a means of transportation for getting to the City's shopping
district. He recently stayed at the Hyatt Newporter, and it had a program
where every hour on the half hour a bus would shuttle hotel guests to the
shopping district. He believed Palm Desert's awareness needed to be raised
that such a service was available. Councilmember/Member Benson agreed.
s� Denotes Items requiring additional Information or future follow-up for Consideration of the Final Budget at the meeting of
June 28, 2001.
PUBLIC WORKS
•Traffic Signal Battery Back -Up
Presently, when power is interrupted or lost, the signals go black. The
subject program would retrofit existing signals with a system to provide
battery operation in the event of power Toss. Program would be
implemented on a priority basis, beginning with intersections of highest
use, local routes only; Highway 111 was a State Route.
In response to concern over Highway 111 signalization and lack of
jurisdiction, Messrs. Folkers and Gaugush explained that staff has been
unsuccessful in dealing with Caltrans on projects, even when it was the
City or a private developer that was funding such projects.
Mrs. Gilligan proposed that perhaps it would be a public relations coup for
the State if it cooperated with the City in this battery back-up project; it was
the State that was concerned about keeping intersections lit.
Councilman/Member Spiegel and Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly
offered to make the necessary contacts with Caltrans to achieve better
relations and favorable consideration of projects, such as that being
discussed.
Upon question, Mr. Gaugush answered that the Traffic Signal Technician
position maintained signals on local streets. There were over 50 signals in
the City currently, not including the 13-14 on the State Route; those were
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maintained by State crews and through an agreement with the City, the State
was reimbursed for 50% of maintenance and energy costs for those signals.
When maintenance was required, there were offices in Indio and
Palm Springs that responded.
•.City Council/Agency Board concurred that this program be included in the final FY
01/02 Budget for consideration at the June 28, 2001, meeting, with additional
direction to staff that it work with the State to find a means to implement the program
for State-controlled intersections; Councilman/Member Spiegel and Mayor Pro-
TemporeNice Chairman Kelly volunteered to work with staff to achieve favorable
consideration from the State.
• Automated Records System for Engineering Documents
• Staff Training Programs
• Computer Systems (New & Upgrades) and Appropriate Software
• Kansas Street Realignment at Hovley Lane East
The proposed would cost between $750,000 to $1,250,000; it was placed in
the proposed Capital Improvement Program as a new project. This was a
request to place funding in the Budget; further study would have to be done
prior to commencement of the project.
•.City Council/Agency Board Members concurred that further discussion and
consideration would be necessary for this project.
sy Denotes items requiring additional information or future follow-up for Consideration of the Final Budget at the meeting of
June 28, 2001.
• Highway 111/Desert Crossing - Toys R Us Intersection Improvements
City Council/Agency Board Members concurred that this project be placed
in the FY 01/02 Budget.
• CSU Site Perimeter Roadway Improvements
Project had been moved up on the CVAG-Measure "A" priority list; included
in current funding, and agreement with CVAG would be forthcoming,
probably for the first meeting in June. City share of costs would be 50%.
• Miscellaneous Equipment for Parks & Streets
With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, items without specific direction above
were approved for inclusion in the FY 01/02 Budget.
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With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, Mayor/Chairman Ferguson recessed
the meeting at 12:10 p.m. He reconvened the meeting at 12:20 p.m.
CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECTS
• Gerald Ford Drive Widening (Between Portola Avenue and
Cook Street)
In response to question, Mr. Gaugush replied that there were currently no
agreements in place. Previously, direction had been to take all necessary
action to build the roadway; as of most recent Council/Agency Board
discussion, staff was in contact with the property owners to obtain an
agreement for reimbursement. As proposed, the hotel project being
considered for the area would be doing the work along its property, or there
was the option that the City would do the work and the developer would
reimburse the City for same.
Further responding, Mr. Gaugush said CVAG was not a party to that project,
it would be local Measure "A" money. With regard to extending Dinah Shore
Drive, connecting it to Gerald Ford Drive at Portola, there was no present
agreement with CVAG, but staff intended to pursue one.
Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly said he felt Gerald Ford Drive
should be four lanes, explaining that all land owners in the North Sphere had
contributed to construct all the existing four -lane roadways there
(Gerald Ford, Frank Sinatra, Portola, Monterey). It would be a windfall to
developers if the extension of Dinah Shore to Portola/Gerald Ford was
constructed. He urged further consideration of this project, as he felt the
money could be put to other uses and suggested that whoever the first
developer was along the extension of Dinah Shore should be required to
work with the City and get all the other landowners in the area to participate
in that road project. He wondered if the City had been too hasty in directing
that Gerald Ford be widened to four lanes until development was initiated in
that vicinity. Staff agreed that more review was necessary and prudent.
Responding to question why the costs of improvement couldn't be recovered
from future development, in light of the fact that a widened road may attract
same, Mr. Gaugush said that without the benefit of a special agreement
effecting such reimbursement, there was no mechanism in place. Further
responding, he replied that Ordinance No. 416 also required the property
owner to enter into an agreement; it was a mutual benefit arrangement.
Frequently, developers were very willing to participate; some others were
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not. Mr. Gaugush believed the property was still under single ownership, it
would involve approximately 4,000 linear feet of improvement. Requirements
were burdened upon that property currently under the Wonder Palms
Development Agreement. A roadway improvement agreement had been
offered to the developer; however, it was the developer's choice whether or
not to enter into such an agreement.
• Sandpiper Sidewalk
Upon inquiry as to when the project would begin and the dead oleanders
along Highway 74 would be removed, Mr. Folkers said a meeting had been
conducted with Ron Maloney, acting as chair of the group, along with a
couple of residents. As a result of that meeting, it was pretty well agreed on
how that project would proceed; that group was going to go back and get
some more information. Mr. Folkers estimated returning to the
Council/Agency Board with an explanation of the project at the first meeting
in June; Sandpiper would like to pay for the wall along Highway 74, an
eight -foot wall for noise, and they were also willing to pay for the six-foot wall
along El Paseo. It would work in conjunction with the City's project in that
area, to be done through the summer months, if possible.
• Civic Center Park Putting Green
Received no previous direction for inclusion in the FY 01/02 Budget.
Mr. Drell explained that staff originally thought this project was being
provided by the proposer at no charge and, therefore, would have no
problem taking it out of the budget.
Council/Agency Board concurred that it be deleted from the project list.
• Washington Charter School Park - Phase II
Councilman/Member Spiegel explained this project included a temporary
building, directly behind the temporary school rooms on the north side of the
facility. Would be used by Park & Rec and also by the school when some
of the buildings were torn down to begin expansion. It could be used for an
after -school facility for the Park & Rec District, rather than transporting kids
to the Community Center.
Mr. Drell commented that each one of the prospective projects would return
to the Council/Agency Board for approval; at this time, it was a matter of
setting aside money in next year's budget.
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MAY 25, 2001
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
FIVE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN
Mr. Ortega explained the handout, stating that at the top of each page (one
for each Project Area), projects were listed that were either in the site
planning process with agreements and/or by recent agreements that
changed their status to placement under "Funded Projects." He said by
"funded," it meant by both cash and proposed bonding, the funds had been
allocated for those projects already approved and those with significant
potential for approval; those projects included the McCallum Theatre, Cal
State Infrastructure (pending), Palms to Pines (proposed), Land Acquisition;
JFK Clinic— basically everything that's been considered to date. Assuming
that a bond issue is done by the end of the year, there was a balance of
$19 million that could be applied to the purchase of property in the North
Sphere. He said projects at the bottom of the page under "Unfunded" were
those that had been looked at previously but had been placed in this
category at this time.
In response to comment and inquiry for specific line items, the following was
provided:
Shaded Parkina at City Hall— Mr. Ortega said the first phase of the project
presently underway ($400,000) was funded, the remaining phases were
unfunded. He said the initial estimate for all areas was $2.6 million.
Office Max— Mr. Drell stated that if the property owner developed a plan that
met with favor, it was possible that funding would be requested from the
RDA. The owner was considering underground parking, building out on El
Paseo, adding a restaurant. Mr. Ortega noted it was listed with unfunded
projects.
Council/Agency Board Members concurred that for the future, they wished the
opportunity to provide a preliminary approval of placing projects on such a list for
funding consideration.
Price Club Annexation— Monies reimbursed for the Regional Access Project;
it was an existing commitment. Mr. Ortega explained that it helped the City,
the sales tax was collected, but the Agency had to budget for it.
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MAY 25, 2001
Desert Willow Pad Stabilization— It was an estimated figure, money was
reimbursed to the City; there was recently an action taken for this purpose
in the amount of $135,000.
Educational Facilities Enhancements— in the Plan there was a specification
that the Agency would do something for the School District (e.g. High School
projects, potential access to Cook Street). Councilman/Member Spiegel felt
that if the decision was made for Cook Street access for the High School,
money would be needed. Mr. Ortega responded that there was $1 million
funded in Project Area No. 4 that could be used.
Child Care Facilities ($2.5 million).— was on the initial, mandatory five-year
plan. Now listed as a placeholder; there was previous discussion for a child
care facility for the 40-acre housing project.
Mr. Ortega reminded Council/Agency Board Members that anything moved
from "Unfunded" to "Funded" would reduce the remaining $19 million.
Portola All Weather Bridge— Mr. Folkers explained that staff would seek all
available grant funding for the Portola All Weather Bridge project, if
Council/Agency Board Members felt it was something that should be
pursued. He added that there were sometimes Bridge Replacement
Programs, and this project may be applicable.
Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly stated that the Portola Bridge
should be considered by the subcommittee for Discretionary Projects and
related applications and return to the Council/Agency Board with
recommendations. He agreed that all available grant funding for the Portola
Bridge should be sought.
Palma Villaae Improvements ($6 million).— Councilman/Member Spiegel said
while this would be an expensive project, it was important to the City.
Councilmember/Member Benson stated that this project would be part of the
General Plan process. Responding to question, Mr. Ortega said there was
a project being reviewed (Radio Active) that would include acquiring some
land in the back and fixing the land in the front; it would be brought to the
Council/Agency Board for consideration, funding would be required if it met
with favor. He added that if the Council/Agency Board desired to move a
specific funded amount for Palma Village Improvements, it could do so.
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MAY 25, 2001
Council/Agency Board Members concurred that the present listing met with general
approval; as projects became finalized, then they could be reclassified and allocated
under "Funded" projects.
Palms to Pines East (Glassner Proiect)— Rehabilitation of the center
containing Staples and Rite Aid (re -landscaping the parking lot and facade
improvement [front and back]). Staff placed under "Funded" as it believed
project was a high priority for the Council/Agency Board; part of the project
included Highway 111 access.
Land Acquisition— Report being prepared for presentation to the
Council/Agency Board in the next two weeks.
Employment Training Facility— During previous pass -through negotiation
with the County, the County Office of Education wanted money for this
purpose. Motivation for further discussion of this project had seemed to
wane; staff listed it as a placeholder.
Project Status Report (Public Works)
Upon inquiry, Mr. Gaugush explained that a number of projects were in
design -only, some where ready to begin construction, contracts were
awarded. He said the report was a means of advising the Riverside County
Transportation Commission (RCTC) where the City would be as of June 30,
2002, with its Measure "A" Fund projects, including a plan of action to
achieve same.
Mayor Pro-TemporeNice Chairman Kelly said the Commission had an
oversight responsibility to ensure the monies were being spent for the
appropriate purposes.
In closing, Mr. Ortega remarked that the FY 01 /02 Budget was lean in nature
in comparison to the requests from FY 00/01— small increases for office
supplies, expenses related to payroll (Cafeteria Plan, Workers
Compensation).
Mr. Gibson affirmed that another award had been received for the year-end
financial statements. He said the requirements for the budget award process
were too labor-intensive to produce and wouldn't be useful for Palm Desert's
purposes. He said this year his staff would be focusing on the new
GASB-34 requirements, a drastic change to the financials.
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Councilmember/Member Benson agreed there was nothing frivolous listed
in the budget, and she was very pleased with it.
Councilman/Member Spiegel agreed.
V. ADJOURNMENT
1) Request for Closed Session:
Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government
Code Section 54956.8:
1) Property: Known as Westfield Shoppingtown Palm Desert
(72-840 Highway 111, Palm Desert)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Carlos L. Ortega/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Westfield Corporation
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
2) Property: APN 625-021-005
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Charles and Angela Morris, Trustees
for the Morris Family Trust
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
3) Property: 74-470 Goleta Avenue, Palm Desert
(APN 625-031-020)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Randy G. and Jacqueline Chavez
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
4) Property: 74-480 Goleta Avenue, Palm Desert
(APN 625-031-021)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Oscar E. and Marene G. Barrientos
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
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5) Property: 74-490 Goleta Avenue, Palm Desert
(APN 625-031-022)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Dennis L. Tank, Trustee
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
6) Property: Property located north of Frank Sinatra Drive,
between Portola Avenue and Cook Street,
Palm Desert, CA
(APN's 653-400-030/032/033/034)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Carlos L. Ortega
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: American Realty Trust
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
7) Property: APN 632-030-003
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Carlos L. Ortega/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Jackson Delmas et al.
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
8) Property: APN 653-370-018
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: World Development, Inc.
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
9) Property: APN 653-370-017
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Dave Yrigoyen
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL AND
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
MAY 25, 2001
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation pursuant
to Government Code Section 54956.9(a):
a) Eddie Ahmad Babai v. City of Palm Desert, Riverside
County Superior Court Case No. INC 013297
b) Michael Ellis v. City of Palm Desert, Riverside County
Superior Court Case No. INC 018398
c) Renee Capela v. City of Palm Desert, Riverside County
Superior Court Case No. INC 021720
d) City of Palm Springs v. All Persons Interested, Riverside
County Superior Court Case No. INC 051124
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to
litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b):
Number of potential cases: 2
Conference with Labor Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6:
Negotiating Parties: Carlos L. Ortega/City of Palm Desert
Palm Desert Employees Organization
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ADJOURNED JOINT MEETING OF THE
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PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
2) Report and Action on Items from Closed Session.
MAY 25, 2001
Prior to adjournment, Mr. Ortega announced for the record an action taken in
Closed Session at the City Council's Special Meeting of May 18, 2001:
The City of Palm Desert and the Sunrise Corporation had executed
an agreement that included provisions for money from Sunrise to the
City that could be used to construct a roadway along the western
boundary of the Toscana Project. The agreement was approved by
the City Council on a 4-0 vote with Councilman Crites ABSENT.
With City Council/Agency Board concurrence, Mayor/Chairman Ferguson adjourned
the meeting to Closed Session at 1:05 p.m. He reconvened the meeting at 1:15 p.m
and immediately adjourned with no further action announced from Closed Session.
ATTEST:
7
SHEILA R. GILLIGAN,R N7Y CLERK/SECRETARY
CITY OF PALM DESE CALIFORNIA/
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
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N, MAYOR/CHAIRMAN
25