HomeMy WebLinkAbout2011-01-13MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, JANUARY 13, 2011
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260
I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M.
Mayor Benson convened the meeting at 3:00 p.m.
11. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Cindy Finerty
Councilmember Jan C. Hamik
Councilman William R. Kroonen
Mayor Pro Tem Robert A. Spiegel
Mayor Jean M. Benson
Also Present:
John M. Wohlmuth, City Manager/RDA Executive Director
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Justin McCarthy, ACM for Redevelopment
Stephen Y. Aryan, Assistant to the City Manager
Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk
Bo Chen, City Engineer
Russell Grance, Director of Building & Safety
Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development
Paul S. Gibson, Director of Finance/City Treasurer
Janet M. Moore, Director of Housing
Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works
Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs
Bill Hunley, Battalion Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire Dept./Cal Fire
Andrew Shouse, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriffs Dept.
Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
None
IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Reauest for Closed Session:
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 13, 2011
Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Govemment Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: Lease Property - 1.5 Acres between Marrakesh Country Club
and Haystack Drive (APN 630-200-019)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Other Parties: Marrakesh Country Club
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
2) Property: Lease Property - Parkview Professional Office Complex
73720 Fred Waring Drive, Suite 100, Palm Desert
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Paul S. Gibson/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Other Parties: State of California Water Resources Control Board
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
3) Property: Northwest Comer of Highway 111 and Monterey Avenue
(APN 640-140-019)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Justin McCarthy/City of Palm Desert/
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert/
Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation
pursuant to Govemment Code Section 54956.9(b):
Number of potential cases: 2
Mr. Erwin requested the City Council consider adding two items to the Closed
Session agenda having to do with existing litigation pursuant to Govemment Code
Section 54956.9(a)
a) Edith Slater v. City of Palm Desert, Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency,
and Palm Desert Housing Authority, Riverside County Superior Court, Case
No. INC 10004792
b) Michelyn Flynn v. City of Palm Desert, Riverside County Superior Court,
Case No. INC 10003730
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 13, 2011
Upon a motion by Spiegel, second by Kroonen, and 5-0 vote of the City Council, the
aforementioned two items of existing litigation were added to the agenda for Closed
Session consideration.
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Benson adjourned the meeting to Closed
Session at 3:02 p.m. She reconvened the meeting at 4:01 p.m.
V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION.
None
VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Councilmember Cindy Finerty
VII. INVOCATION - Mayor Pro Tem Robert A. Spiegel
VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS -
None
Councilmember Finerty requested consideration of adding an item to the agenda
as an urgency matter. She said this was based on today's news article about 44
dogs that have been taken to the Coachella Valley Animal Campus. There was an
Animal Campus Committee Meeting earlier today, and following significant
discussion by local city officials there, along with Fourth District Supervisor
John Benoit, it needed to be added to today's Palm Desert City Council agenda.
On a motion by Benson, second by Spiegel, and 5-0 vote of the City Council, the
item was added to Section XIV - New Business, Item A-1. Please see that portion of the
minutes for discussion and resulting action.
IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION TO RECOGNIZE FORMER
COUNCILMAN AND MAYOR JIM FERGUSON FOR HIS 13 YEARS OF
SERVICE ON THE PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL.
On behalf of the City Council, Mayor Benson presented former Councilman
and Mayor Jim Ferguson with an engraved, framed print of the Council
Chamber Mural. She also presented him with a framed print featuring the
actual pages of Assembly Bill 811 as signed by then-Govemor
Arnold Schwarzenegger, and it included an engraved quotation by California
Public Utilities Commission President Michael Peevey, crediting
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Jim Ferguson for his leadership in energy efficiency and for the landmark
legislation that "...has changed the energy landscape of California for the
better, forever." She expressed sincere appreciation to Mr. Ferguson for his
tenure on the Council and the talents he brought to the City, particularly in
launching the Energy Program. Additionally, Mr. Wohlmuth said that on
behalf of the City Council and staff, he was pleased to present the chair from
Mr. Ferguson's office at City Hall as a remembrance of his time with the
City of Palm Desert.
MR. FERGUSON addressed the City Council and audience to say it was an
honor to be in the Chamber today, noting that many had come before him
and lots will come after, each making their own contributions to the City. He
introduced his children with him today, 17Y2-year-old Alec, 15%-year-old
Michaela, and 10-year-old Jackie, observing that most of their lives had been
spent while he was serving the City. He went on to say that he knew the City
was in very capable hands with Councilmembers Kroonen and Hamik joining
the team. He thanked everyone for the tribute and for the time he spent as
part of the City family, adding that he was proud to be a resident of
Palm Desert.
B. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING JANUARY 13, 2011,
AS "PAT WALSH DAY' IN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT.
On behalf of the City Council, Mayor Benson presented Palm Desert High
School Principal Pat Walsh with the framed proclamation, recognizing his
service to the City and the tremendous achievements that had been
accomplished by the High School under his direction since taking the
position in 1998. She said it would be sad to see him leave Palm Desert to
take a position in Brentwood in the San Francisco Bay area, but she joined
her colleagues in wishing him well there, inviting him to visit Palm Desert as
often as possible.
MR. WALSH expressed his sincere appreciation for the honor and thanked
a wonderful teaching staff, parents, and the City for building a partnership to
achieve great things in Palm Desert. Additionally, he reminded everyone to
be thankful for the people in their lives and to let them know how much they
are loved.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meetings of December 9 and
December 23, 2010.
Rec: Approve as presented.
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B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant
Nos. 127, 128, 131, 136, 140, 141, 145, and 146.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
1. Marketing Committee Meeting of November 16, 2010.
2. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting of November 2, 2010.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL to Provide In -Kind Service to Support the
Festival of Opera and Art to Occur on April 10, 2011.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the provision of in -kind services as
outlined in the accompanying staff report to support the 2011 Festival
of Opera and Art on April 10, 2011.
E. REQUEST FOR RATIFICATION of City Manager's Authorization to Enter
Into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Agreement with the City of
Riverside to Participate in a Califomia Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) -Avoid
the 30 DUI Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2010-2011.
Rec: By Minute Motion, ratify the City Manager's authorization to enter into
the subject Memorandum of Understanding Agreement with the City
of Riverside, Riverside, Califomia, to participate in a California Office
of Traffic Safety (OTS) - Avoid the 30 DUI Grant Program for Fiscal
Year 2010-2011.
F. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE of the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Next
Generation - Click It or Ticket Program for Fiscal Year 2010-2011
(Grant #CT11302).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Next
Generation —Click It or Ticket Program for Fiscal Year 2010-2011
(Grant #CT11302) in the amount of $1,740.48. Funds will be used
to conduct at least two seat belt enforcement campaigns throughout
the year. The program will run from November 15, 2010, through
June 6, 2011.
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G. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE of the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS)
Sobriety Checkpoint Mini -Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2010-2011
(Grant #SC11302).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the Office of Traffic Safety (OTS) Sobriety
Checkpoint Mini -Grant Program for Fiscal Year 2010-2011
(Grant #SC11302) in the amount of $26,640.
H. REQUEST FOR DECLARATION of Surplus Property and Authorization for
Disposal of Palm Desert Police Department Miscellaneous Camera
Equipment.
Rec: By Minute Motion, declare items on the accompanying staff report as
surplus property and authorize disposal as appropriate.
I. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Security for Desert Wings,
LLC (Desert Wings, LLC, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize release of security for Desert Wings, LLC
(Buffalo Wild Wings Restaurant), and waive the one-year
maintenance requirement.
J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL to Possess and Consume Alcohol in
Connection with an Open House Reception at the New Palm Desert Visitor
Center on January 26, 2011.
Rec: By Minute Motion, permit the possession and serving of alcohol in
connection with the open house reception at the new Palm Desert
Visitor Center, 73-470 El Paseo, to be held on January 26, 2011.
K. REQUEST FOR EXTENSION of Contract No. C22161B with D.W.
Nicholson, LLC, DBA Desert Building Services to Perform Janitorial Services
for the City of Palm Desert at the Henderson Building for One Additional
Year.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve extension to subject contract with D.W.
Nicholson, LLC, DBA Desert Building Services, Rancho Mirage,
California, to perform janitorial services for the City of Palm Desert at
the Henderson Building for one additional year in the amount of
$11,880, and authorize the Mayor to execute same. Funds are
available in Fund 510.
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L. CONSIDERATION FOR APPROVAL to Contract with Willdan Financial
Services to Initiate and Prepare the Re-formation of the Allessandro Alley
Private Business Improvement District (PBID) (Contract No. C30480).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1)Authorize the Mayor to enter into an agreement
with Willdan Financial Services, Temecula, Califomia, in the amount
of $14,750 for re-forming the Alessandro Alley Private Business
Improvement District (PBID); 2) appropriate $14,750 to Fund No. 288,
Allessandro Alley PBID, which will be reimbursed throughout the life
of the PBID.
M. CONSIDERATION FOR APPROVAL to Contract with Willdan Financial
Services to Initiate and Prepare the Re-formation of the Presidents Plaza 11I
Private Business Improvement District(PBID) (Contract No. C30490).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1)Authorize the Mayor to enter into an agreement
with Willdan Financial Services, Temecula, Califomia, in the amount
of $12,750 for re-forming the Presidents Plaza 111 Private Business
Improvement District (PBID); 2) appropriate $12,750 to Fund No. 282,
Presidents Plaza III PBID, which will be reimbursed throughout the life
of the PBID.
N. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Out -of -State Travel for One City Code
Compliance Officer to Attend the 2011 International Codes Council Educode
Training Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 31 - February 4, 2011.
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize one City Code Compliance Officer to
attend the 2011 International Codes Council Educode Training
Conference in Las Vegas, Nevada, January 31 - February 4, 2011 -
funds are available in Account No. 110-4154-415.31-20, Human
Resources and 110-4470-412.31-20, Community Development
Department Conference/Seminars/Workshops.
Upon a motion by Kroonen, second by Spiegel, and 5-0 vote of the City Council, the
Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 13, 2011
XII. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2011 - 1 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE
APPLICATION PROCESS, REVIEW PROCEDURES, AND REQUIRED
CONTRACT PROVISIONS FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE
PALM DESERT MILLS ACT PURSUANT TO PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL
CODE CHAPTER 29.70.
Mr. Grance stated the staff report was a request for implementation of the
Mills Act Program pursuant to Section 29.70.030 of the Palm Desert
Municipal Code. He said the Mills Act was recognized as one of the most
important incentive programs available in Califomia for use by private
property owners for qualified historic buildings, and more than 80
communities in the State have established a Mills Act Program.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 2011-1. Motion was seconded by Harnik and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
None
For Adoption:
None
XIV. NEW BUSINESS
ITEM ADDED TO AGENDA BY 5-0 VOTE AT 4:00 P.M. RECONVENING OF THE
MEETING:
A-1. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FUNDING A CONTRACT WITH
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TO HIRE A PET ADOPTION AND FOSTERING
COORDINATOR AT THE COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS
(CONTRACT NO. C30540).
Councilmember Finerty stated that at today's Animal Campus meeting they
talked about the same topic discussed at the City Council's retreat, which
was to bring back the position at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus
regarding adopting and fostering the pets. She said the lengthy discussion
about it received unanimous support from all cities, and she proposed Palm
Desert commit up to $20,000 for a contract position to hire an employee that
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would assist in adoptions and fostering. The entire cost is approximately
$51,000 divided between four cities: Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, Indian
Wells, and La Quinta. She said the euthanasia rate was so high that, this
lady that had 44 dogs taken from her home and placed at the Animal
Campus, it was conceivable that 33 of the 44 dogs would be euthanized.
She worked with Supervisor Benoit this morning on this item, and he asked
for City Manager John Wohlmuth to coordinate this request with the other
cities and Mr. Noel Loughrin from his office to process this request as
expeditiously as possible. She said they also discussed bringing back the
person that was let go and the need to have someone that could hit the
ground running to reestablish the adoption and fostering program. She said
the other cities will be having council meetings within the next week, and
within a week, Mr. Wohlmuth should have information to provide to
Mr. Loughrin at John Benoit's office in order to move forward. An additional
issue discussed, which affected those people who wished to help out with
the overage of animals, was the County requires a Conditional Use Permit
(CUP), and the cost for the permit is $10,000 along with a two-year process,
which is very time consuming. She said Fred Saunders from the Animal
Samaritans stated it kept many people who had five acres to want to set up
and help out these animals. Staff at the Animal Campus was asked to come
up with ways to reduce the red tape in the cost and time, because the goal
was to make this happen as soon as possible to avoid having animals
euthanized.
Councilmember Finerty moved to, by Minute Motion, commit up to $20,000 for the
City of Palm Desert to enter into a contract with Riverside County for hiring an employee
to assist with Pet Adoption and Fostering at the Coachella Valley Animal Campus. Motion
was seconded by Spiegel.
Mr. Wohlmuth suggested that as part of the motion the Council consider
appropriating $20,000 from the Unobligated General Fund Reserve for this
purpose.
Councilmember Finerty agreed to amend her motion to include appropriating said
funds from Unobligated General Fund Reserves for said contract. Motion was seconded
by Spiegel.
Councilmember Hamik questioned why Palm Desert would be contributing
a greater amount than the other four cities.
Councilmember Finerty responded it wouldn't be greater, because the
position would be approximately $51,000, which was the number provided
and discussed this moming. When she walked into this moming's meeting,
there were only three cities contributing, but Councilmember Kristy Franklin
from the City of La Quinta stated her city would want to participate, which is
why she proposed up to $20,000, but it could very well be $15,000 or less.
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She said additional cities or nonprofit organizations may also participate, but
the overall desire is to have more than one person on staff to assist with
adoptions and fostering. She said Palm Desert would not be charged
disproportionately.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel noted there was a formula in place with the Cove
Communities with Indian Wells and Rancho Mirage where Palm Desert
always paid more than half and the difference is made up by the other cities.
Councilmember Finerty pointed out that Councilman Dana Hobart from the
City of Rancho Mirage was the Chair at this morning's Animal Campus
meeting, and he was adamant, as was everyone else, that the cost is split
equally among the four cities. She said a letter will be forthcoming from
Supervisor John Benoit's office in the next two days, and other cities may opt
to contribute something, but the cost won't follow the typical Cove
Communities formula.
Councilman Kroonen asked about the time line for council approval on the
part of the other known cities.
Councilmember Finerty said there are two councils that will meet a week
from today and believed La Quinta will meet on Tuesday. Therefore, within
a week from today, City Manager John Wohlmuth will follow up with the
respective city managers and report back to Noel at Supervisor Benoit's
office.
Councilman Kroonen asked if euthanasia activities commenced immediately.
Councilmember Finerty said the Animal Campus usually waited five to seven
days, but there is a commitment from the Animal Samaritans to take some
of the animals, because they know everyone is working feverishly to get this
accomplished. They heard loud and clear from those attending the meeting
that this was a priority for everyone.
Councilman Kroonen asked what would be the consequence if Council were
to delay action on this item in order to have it go through the normal
procedure and consider it at the next City Council meeting.
Councilmember Finerty answered that some animals would be euthanized.
Councilmember Harnik stated she knew Priscilla Dewing handled the
adoptions and did wonderful work, but wondered what the adoption rate was.
Councilmember Finerty responded Priscilla Dewing was the employee that
was let go, but with reference to the adoption rate, the City approved setting
aside funds to cover adoption fees for Palm Desert residents. She said there
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was an adoption fee and spade /neutering fee, which she believed was $85
to $100, but the fee for cats was cheaper. She said the City has committed
to waiving the adoption fees.
Councilmember Harnik stated she didn't mean the cost, but the number of
animals adopted in a year.
Councilmember Finerty said it was 130 a year.
Mayor Benson said it was more than that, stating throughout the year,
adoptions run from 50 to 75 a month, but the last figure given was 120.
Councilmember Finerty stated Petco was on television along with some of
the animals that were taken from this lady's house through efforts by Animal
Samaritans and other nonprofit organizations. She said everyone was
working to do their best to assimilate them.
Mr. Wohlmuth stated that in his discussion with Rob Miller, twelve months
prior to the release of the rescue coordinator, 1,200 animals were adopted
or sent to rescue partners.
Councilmember Finerty stated she misspoke earlier and clarified there were
100 to 120 adoptions per month, but it also included fostering, which was
very important. She said little kittens are too small to be adopted, so they
are taken care of for two or three weeks until they are bigger and ready to be
adopted. She said it was a huge program and every animal's life that can be
saved was worth saving.
Councilman Kroonen requested the motion be restated.
Ms. Klassen said the motion was to authorize the City to commit up to
$20,000 for the hiring of an employee to facilitate adoptions and fostering at
the Coachella Valley Animal Campus and appropriate said amount should
the motion be successful.
Councilmember Finery noted it would be a contract position.
Councilman Kroonen asked if the City Manager would determine the exact
amount the City would be contributing.
Councilmember Finerty responded that once the letter went out from
Supervisor Benoit's office to all the other cities, and all the other city councils
have met and the dollar amount was known, then the City Manager will be
able to figure out exactly what Palm Desert's contribution will be.
Mayor Benson called for the vote, and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote.
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A-2. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL FOR A TEMPORARY WAIVER TO
PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE SECTIONS 9.58.040, AND
11.01.080 W FOR THE DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT'S ANNUAL
INTERNATIONAL SPORTS FESTIVAL OPENING DINNER CEREMONY TO
BE HELD AT THE PALM DESERT COMMUNITY CENTER.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel noted the Senior Games was an annual event
primarily for people that didn't live in Palm Desert, but came to the City to
participate in the games. He said wine is served at the opening dinner
ceremony.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion, grant a temporary waiver to
Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 11.01.080 W (Possession/Consumption of
Alcohol in City Parks) pursuant to PDMC 9.58.040 for the Desert Recreation District's
Annual International Sports Festival Opening Ceremony to be held at the Palm Desert
Community Center on February 4, 2011. Motion was seconded by Hamik and carried by
a 5-0 vote.
B. REQUEST FOR EXTENSION OF CONTRACT NO. C22167 WITH D.W.
NICHOLSON, LLC, DBA DESERT BUILDING SERVICES TO PERFORM
JANITORIAL SERVICES FOR THE CITY OF PALM DESERT AT THE
PARKVIEW OFFICE COMPLEX FOR ONE ADDITIONAL YEAR.
Responding to question, Mr. Gibson confirmed this year's contract amount
was the same as the prior year.
Councilmember Finerty moved to, by Minute Motion, approve extension of subject
contract with D.W. Nicholson, LLC, DBA Desert Building Services, Rancho Mirage,
Califomia, to perform janitorial services for the City of Palm Desert at the Parkview Office
Complex for one additional year in the amount of $73,020, and authorize the Mayor to
execute same. Funds are available in Fund 510. Motion was seconded by Kroonen and
carried by a 5-0 vote.
C. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THE CIVIC CENTER
REROOFING PROJECT (CONTRACT NO. C29890).
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel commented that with all the roofing companies in the
Coachella Valley the City did not receive a single bid from a local vendor.
Mr. Greenwood agreed. However, the City requested specialized roofing
materials that are meant to last and is used on a lot of govemment buildings,
particularly school buildings. He said local contractors had the opportunity
to become certified, because you have to be a certified installer of this
specialized material, and yet none of the local vendors bid on this project.
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Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Reject the bid from the
apparent low responsive bidder, Tecta America Southem California, Inc., Santa Ana,
California, due to mathematical errors; 2) award the subject contract in an amount of
$903,250 to Progressive Roofing, Manteca, Califomia, for the Civic Center Reroofing
Project; 3) approve a 10% contingency of $90,325; 4) authorize the Mayor to execute the
subject agreement - funds are available for this project in the Building Maintenance/Repair
and Maintenance City Hall, Account No. 450-4161-415-4001. Motion was seconded by
Kroonen and carried by a 5-0 vote.
D. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT
WITH THE CITY OF RANCHO MIRAGE FOR THE MONTEREY AVENUE
TRAFFIC SIGNAL SYNCHRONIZATION PROJECT (PROJECT NO. 555-10)
(CONTRACT NO. C29950C).
Responding to question, Mr. Greenwood said the synchronization will help
the traffic signal function better than it was now.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the Mayorto execute
the subject Reimbursement Agreement with the City of Rancho Mirage, Rancho Mirage,
California, for the Monterey Avenue Traffic Signal Synchronization Project. Motion was
seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CONTRACT NO. C30500 WITH THE
LAWRENCE COMPANY FOR THE CREATION AND REVISION OF NEW
AND EXISTING RECYCLE BINNEY PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS
(PSAs) AND AUTHORIZE ADVERTISEMENT OF PSAs.
Responding to question, Ms. Riddle said the funds will come out of Recycle
Funds and no General Funds will be used.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve the subject
contract in the amount of $193,260, plus a 10% contingency in the amount of $19,326, with
The Lawrence Company, El Segundo, Califomia, and authorize the Mayorto execute same
for A) the creation of three (3) new Public Service Announcements (PSAs) (i.e. for Used
Oil Recycling, the Bulky Item Pick-up Program, and Universal Waste and Sharps Disposal);
B) the revision of the existing Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) PSA to reflect the new
At -Home HHW Collection Program; and C) record Spanish translation of each PSA; 2)
authorize LNS, La Quinta, California, to perform media placements of the PSAs (spots on
Time Warner, KESQ, KMIR, KPSP, etc) in the amount of $110,000, plus 10% contingency
in the amount of $11,000; 3) approve an appropriation in the amount $333,586 from the
Recycle Account No. 236-4195-454-3090 to cover the requested work. Motion was
seconded by Harnik and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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F. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL TO PURCHASE IRRIGATION SUPPLIES FOR
THE DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT (CONTRACT NO. C30350).
Responding to question about the single bid submitted, Senior Management
Analyst Catherine Walker confirmed only one bid was received.
Councilmember Finerty commented that at least the contractor was local.
Councilmember Finerty moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve the purchase of
irrigation supplies from High Tech Irrigation Corporation, Indio, California, in an amount not
to exceed $141,777.20; 2) waive any bid irregularities - funds are available in Golf
Course/Ground Expenses, Account No. 520-4195-495-8031. Motion was seconded by
Spiegel and carried by a 5-0 vote.
G. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF LEASE AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT AND GPS INDUSTRIES, LLC, FOR
THE PURPOSE OF PROCURING A GOLF CART ONBOARD GLOBAL
POSITIONING SYSTEM (GPS) (CONTRACT NO. C30340).
Mayor Benson noted she circulated a letter received showing a local
connection to one of the bidding companies for this contract.
Councilmember Finerty asked what was the purpose for this purchase,
because she thought the course provided directional signs.
Senior Management Analyst Catherine Walker stated the system allowed
Desert Willow to schedule plays to avoid a backup on the course and be able
to route plays so that everyone teed off efficiently. She said food can be
ordered from the system and also provides distances for potential swing
shots. She said Mr. Mogenson could provide a more detailed technical
description.
Councilmember Finerty requested staff help the Council understand why
spending $530,000 for 48-months was a reasonable thing to do.
MR. RICHARD MOGENSON, General Manager at Desert Willow Golf
Resort, stated the GPS system was an industry standard customer service
experience item that was standard throughout the entire Coachella Valley as
well as nationally. He said in this day and age GPS systems provide a
myriad of things that are positive; they allow the Club to maintain complete
control, control carts and their destinations to avoid them from driving on
greens, the ability to turn off golf carts that go off the property, provides a
better customer service experience because it speeds up play as opposed
to having everybody measure with their own individual tools, and they
provide a score card. He said the GPS system allows the Club to remain
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JANUARY 13, 2011
competitive as most country clubs in town have a similar system. The
previous contract was $730,000 and this one is for $530,000, which was a
$200,000 savings from the prior four-year contract.
Councilmember Finerty asked what was wrong with Bollseye, the company
that came in at $257,000.
MR. MOGENSON responded the Bollseye system was interesting, but
unfortunately, the company had no experience at this point, and he found it
was virtually a data test. The only two GPS installations they did were for a
nine -hole course in Kansas and Dubia. He felt they didn't effectively promote
their product and maybe down the road it may be a good altemative, but at
this point he didn't want to be another data test.
Councilmember Finerty asked if this was something the Club has had all
along, and the City has spent $700,000 for it in the past.
MR. MOGENSON answered yes, stating the old GPS system is currently
being used, which has expired, but it's been moved over to the new club
carts until a decision is made regarding the installation of a new system.
Councilman Kroonen asked if it was fair to conclude that this expense was
being recouped by the various Club fees.
MR. MOGENSON answered yes, stating the GPS system was part of the
entire Club's budgeting process, because in order to remain competitive and
demand the rates it offered, the Club still has to provide the same experience
that other courses in the Valley provide. Further responding, he said all the
major courses provide a similar system.
Mayor Benson stated she was disturbed by the fact that there is a $250,000
difference between a new company starting out, because somebody has to
hire them to get them going. She said the City's always been innovative in
helping people to get started. She understood they are a new company, but
Palm Desert was once a new City and people put their faith in it. She
reiterated that $250,000 was a big difference.
MR. MOGENSON responded there were a lot of differences in terms of the
product they offered. He said Bollseye didn't offer the full integration with the
new club carts just recently released, and they didn't have some of the
features up and operating that were asked for in the Request for Proposal
(RFP). Although they said they could adapt, he believed there would be an
additional cost once they had it operating. He said Bollseye just wasn't ready
for the Club's particular product, and an additional factor was that they
couldn't produce the product for another four or five months, which would be
a delay and the Clubs season would be jeopardized. Further responding, he
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said the proposed contract was a four-year lease, which was the same as
the previous lease.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the Lease Agreement
for a golf cart onboard global positioning system for the Desert Willow Golf Resort in the
amount of $11,058.61 per month (includes tax and interest) for a term of 48 months with
GPS Industries, LLC, Sarasota, Florida - funds are available in the Golf Course Expenses,
Account No. 520-4195-495-8091. Motion was seconded by Hamik and carried by a 5-0
vote.
XV. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE 2011 MASTER LIST OF QUALIFIED
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CONSULTANTS FOR SERVICES VALUED
AT LESS THAN $25,000 PER PROJECT (JOINT CONSIDERATION WITH
THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THE
PALM DESERT HOUSING AUTHORITY) (Continued from the Meeting of
December 9, 2010).
Redevelopment Accountant Veronica Tapia stated staff went through the list
that was provided in December and reorganized it. She pointed out that the
local vendors were prioritized to the front of the list, which represented 40%
of the vendors, and then by region and out-of-state.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel asked if any vendors were removed
that weren't local.
Ms. Tapia responded the list was just reorganized.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel stated the Chamber of Commerce
is having a program on Saturday, March 19, 2011, on encouraging people
to purchase locally, which he was in favor. He said hopefully the people that
will be making purchases will primarily search for local vendors and not go
outside the Valley.
Councilmember/Member Hamik stated the staff report indicated the
companies on the list were considered qualified for three years. She asked
if other people were eligible to be placed on the list or was the list comprised
every three years.
Ms. Tapia said the list was comprised every year, but once accepted, they
are allowed to remain on the list for three years.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel invited Barbara deBoom to comment
on the matter.
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MS. BARBARA deBOOM, President/CEO of the Palm Desert Chamber of
Commerce, stated she liked the order in which the vendors were listed and
appreciated staff working with the Chamber.
Mayor/Chairman Benson noted the Housing Authority approved the list as
well
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve the
2011 Consultant Master List as outlined in the accompanying staff report; 2) authorize staff
to negotiate agreements and contract amendments with the Qualified Consultants for up
to $25,000 per project, and authorize the City Manager/Executive Director to execute
same; 3) approve the proceedings for selection and award of contracts as set forth in the
accompanying staff report and as authorized by Palm Desert Municipal Code Section
3.32.090. Motion was seconded by Kroonen and carried by a 5-0 vote.
B. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACTS FOR THE PORTOLA AVENUE
AND FRANK SINATRA DRIVE INTERSECTION IMPROVEMENTS AND
APPROVE A WATER LINE RELOCATION AGREEMENT WITH
COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT (CVWD)(PROJECT NO. 572-08)
(Continued from the Meeting of December 9, 2010).
Councilman Kroonen moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Select the warm -mix asphalt
altemative; 2) award Contract No. C27950A for Construction of the Improvements at the
Intersection in the amount of $3,931,371 to H & H General Contractors, Inc., Highland,
California; 3) approve a 10% contingency for the construction contract in the amount of
$393,137; 4) award Contract No. C27950D for Geotechnical Services in the amount of
$35,210 to Southem California Soil & Testing, Inc., Indio, California; 5) award Contract No.
C27950E for Surveying Services in the amount of $25,901 to RBF Consulting, Palm
Desert, Califomia; 6) approve a loan in the amount of $102,300 and an Agreement
(C27950F) with Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) for the relocation of water lines
and installation of siphons; 7) authorize the Mayor to execute the aforementioned
agreements. Funds are available in the following accounts: Measure A, Account No.
21 3-4548-433-4001($1 ,050,714); Drainage Fees, Account No.
232-4548-433-4001($3,094,005); Capital Project Reserve, Account No.
400-4548-433-4001($343,200). Motion was seconded by Spiegel and carried by a 5-0
vote.
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XVI. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE MEDIA PLACEMENT PLAN FOR
THE REMAINDER OF THE 2010/2011 FISCAL YEAR.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel stated this item was reviewed at the City Council's
Retreat and Teamed the cost was $50,000 Tess than originally budgeted. He
said if this item was approved, the City will be advertising in areas that the
hotels requested. He said its snowing and cold around the Country, and he
was sure those people would rather be here in Palm Desert.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the 2010/2011 Media
Placement Plan in an amount not to exceed $151,343 with JNS Advertising, La Quinta,
Califomia - funds are available in Advertising Buys, Account No. 110-4417-414-3221.
Motion was seconded by Hamik and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FOURTH AMENDMENT TO DISPOSITION
AND DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT BETWEEN PALM DESERT
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND WVC RANCHO MIRAGE, INC.
REGARDING MODIFICATION OF MINIMUM PROJECT AMENITY FEES
FOR THE WESTIN DESERT WILLOW VILLAS TIMESHARE PROJECT
(JOINT CONSIDERATION WITH THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY).
Mr. McCarthy stated this item was a joint hearing with the Palm Desert
Redevelopment Agency and as members of the Agency Board it currently
had a Disposition and Development Agreement (DDA) which was amended
when Starwood took over a portion of the Intrawest property and therefore
inherited a schedule of project amenity fee payments that were subsequently
modified in the Third Amendment, but that schedule is predicated on an
assumed build -out that was determined in 2006. The market for timeshares
has suffered along with a lot of other activities with the current extraordinary
economic distress. He said there was great deal of distressed timeshare
products in different markets that are competing with the City's project.
Representatives of Starwood asked if the City was willing to consider a
permanent modification to the agreement with respect to the project amenity
fee payments. Staff respondedsuggesting a five-year moratorium whereby
Starwood would just pay on timeshares that were actually built. They will
continue to pay on the ones that have been built with the schedule intact and
reassert it after the end of the five-year period. Staff believes it is in the
City's best interest to be accommodative with the developer as they are
building a fine product. He said Starwood expressed their concem in that if
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they were forced to make payments well in advance on the construction of
the timeshare units, they would be at a disadvantage in terms of competing
for intemal capital necessary to actually build these projects, because they
have to present the project to their parent company and compete intemally
in terms of returns and things of this nature. He said their rationale seemed
to make sense and the recommendation was a collective recommendation
from the management team. He said a representative from Starwood was
present to speak on the matter if Council had any questions.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel stated it meant the City would lose
$2.5 million to the General Fund.
Mr. McCarthy responded these funds actually went into the 241 Capital
Reserve Fund for Desert Willow and not typically operating General Funds;
however, the 241 Fund was accessible to the General Fund should it be
needed. He agreed there would be a reduction in revenue of about
$2.7 million over the five-year period.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel asked if the City's relationship with
anyone else be affected if this request was approved.
Mr. McCarthy answered no, stating the City had a similar agreement with the
existing Intrawest, but they have not been building and have been operating
under this agreement for some time. He said this particular agreement with
the Amendment was still favorable to the City relative to other types out
there. He said other agreements are tied to "as built," as opposed to a
pre-existing schedule like with the Marriott on Monterey.
Councilman/Member Kroonen questioned what would be the scenario if this
wasn't approved.
Mr. McCarthy stated he didn't wish to speculate, because he never felt it was
appropriate to put a business in distress and it's never in the City's interest.
He said this has been a very good project for the City and it seems there is
a fair argument to be made that if the actual build -out has changed, it may
be appropriate to conform to the actual build -out as opposed to everybody's
best intentions four years ago.
Mayor/Chairman Benson asked if the City would return to the same
agreement at the end of this period.
Mr. McCarthy answered yes.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel asked if Starwood was continuing to
build on their last pad.
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Mr. McCarthy stated it was his understanding they were, but deferred to the
representative of Starwood to speak to the issue of absorption and build -out.
Mayor/Chairman Benson declared the public hearing open and invited public
testimony FAVORING or OPPOSING this matter.
MS. EMILY HEMPHILL stated she was Counsel and Local Representative
for Starwood. She said Starwood had 74 units that were already built and
entitled for 280 in total. She said 74 units started selling in 2007, and with
74 units you get about 3,700 timeshare units. In 2007 and 2008 Starwood
was selling at a rate of almost 2,000 timeshare units per year. In 2009 that
number dropped to less than half, but the numbers are starting to crawl up
again. Starwood's projections are that with the units already constructed, if
they don't begin building again, they will run out of inventory at this particular
location; they have run out of inventory in Rancho Mirage. She said
Starwood had a real investment in the sales machine here in the Desert, so
they would like to avoid dismantling the machine and keep it fed with
inventory as they go. Although the depressed economy hit tourism and
timeshare sales hard, they are starting to see it climb back up, so they went
ahead and purchased a building permit for Building 4, which has 22
additional units. They plan to meet with their Board of Directors on February
23 to ask for permission to begin construction on that building. However,
because it's a public company, until they act, she couldn't tell for sure what
will happen, but this request is an important piece. She said Starwood was
asking to not pay the project amenity fee for units that didn't exist for a period
of five years, but will continue to pay on the ones that did exist whether they
are sold or not. Further responding, she said if the additional 22 units are
approved for construction, Starwood will pay the fee on those as well. The
estimate provided to Council by staff, in terms of reduction, was a worse
case scenario. She said they were hopeful the market will continue to pick
up, and as they build the deficit number will be smaller. She thanked the
Council for its consideration.
With no further testimony offered, Mayor/Chairman Benson declared the public
hearing closed.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve the
Fourth Amendment with WVC Rancho Mirage, Inc.; 2) authorize the Mayor/Executive
Director to execute the Fourth Amendment. Motion was seconded by Harnik and carried
by a 5-0 vote.
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B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CHANGE OF ZONE FROM SERVICE
INDUSTRIAL (S.I.) TO PLANNED RESIDENTIAL 5 UNITS PER ACRES
(PR-5) AND A TENTATIVE TRACT MAP TO CREATE 15 NEW
RESIDENTIAL LOTS ON THE NORTH SIDE OF PICASSO DRIVE WITHIN
THE GALLERY RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT, LOCATED ON THE
NORTHWEST CORNER OF GERALD FORD DRIVE AND PORTOLA
AVENUE, Case Nos: C/Z 10-276 and TT 36335 (Ponderosa Homes II,
Inc./MSA Consulting, Inc. Applicants).
Councilmember Hamik stated she will abstain on this item because she has
an interest within 500 feet from the subject property and left the Council
Chamber.
Principal Planner Tony Bagato stated this case was a Change of Zone and
Tentative Track Map for 15 lots within the existing Ponderosa Homes
Development located just north of Gerald Ford Drive. He displayed an arial
view of the subject subdivision and stated the site was 3.4-acre property that
will be located on the north side of Picasso Drive adjacent to the existing
residential community. Access to the new Tots will be provided through the
main driveways off of Gerald Ford Drive and Dinah Shore Drive. He also
displayed the General Plan and Zoning maps and stated that under the
General Plan it's all designated for Residential. The Applicant owns the
entire property and plans on coming in with a smaller residential product in
the future, but when the General Plan update was completed in 2003, the
property was never rezoned, which is the reason for this item, to change the
zone portion from Service Industrial to Residential to be consistent with the
General Plan. Staffs findings were that the Applicant was consistent with
the existing community and zoning, and the findings for approval are
included in the staff report. He said the Planning Commission recommended
approval in November 2009. He offered to answer questions.
Mayor Benson asked why was the area zoned Service Industrial in the first
place.
Mr. Bagato responded it was all initially zoned Service Industrial prior to the
General Plan update, but in reviewing the areas, some of the Service
Industrial areas were designed for Residential in the future, but the City has
not updated the Zoning Ordinance for the Zoning maps to be consistent with
all the General Plan Designations. He said some of the area to the north of
Dinah Shore is Service Industrial, but this portion to the north of these lots
will still be Residential, so they will be compatible with the rest of the area.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open, and invited public testimony
FAVORING or OPPOSING this matter.
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MR. JEFF SCHRADER with Ponderosa Homes stated that when the project
was built, the streets were constructed with all the utilities for the subject lots,
but because the zone line was there already, they didn't go through the zone
change process. He said they opened a new set of models this past month
and traffic was picking up, so they felt positive and thought it was time to
bring this last piece to the community. He said they are working on a plan
for the rest of the 32 net acres, which they hope to submit this year.
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel asked how many homes had been sold in the past
couple of months.
MR. SCHRADER responded that since they opened up on December 13,
they had not sold any from the new project. However, at the end of 2008,
they sold 58 lots to D.R. Horton, and they opened up their new project in the
middle of the year and have sold 22 homes, which has helped generate
traffic for his project and can now see a Tight at the end of the tunnel.
With no further testimony offered, Mayor Benson declared the public hearing
closed.
Councilmember Finerty moved to waive further reading and: 1) Pass Ordinance
No. 1219 to second reading, approving a Change of Zone from Service Industrial (S.I.) to
Planned Residential 5/acre (PR-5); 2) adopt Resolution No. 2011- 2, Tentative Tract Map
36335, subject to conditions. Motion was seconded by Kroonen and carried by a 4-0 vote,
with Harnik ABSENT.
C. REQUEST TO ACCEPT CAL COPS SUPPLEMENTAL LAW
ENFORCEMENT SERVICES FUNDING (SLESF) FOR 2010/2011.
Mr. Aryan stated the City of Palm Desert was eligible to receive
approximately $100,000 in Cal COPS funding this fiscal year. He said the
funds assist the Police Department by underwriting certain projects and
programs they have in reducing crime and improving public safety. In order
for the City to accept the available funding, the expenditure plan before the
Council needed to be approved by the City Council and submitted. The
expenditure plan shows approximately 35% of the $100,000 that was used
for the recently completed 2010 Holiday Theft Suppression Program. The
remaining balance will be used to purchase necessary equipment and
supplies that support their front-line enforcement activities. There is an
existing balance of $11,000 in the previous Cal COPS funding, so with
approval of staffs recommendation the balance will be approximately
$111,000 for their disposal.
Mayor Benson asked if staff had any figures on what the program
accomplished for the community or El Paseo during the holidays.
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Lt. Shouse responded he didn't have any firm numbers, but believed the
Department spent about that amount. He said the Department put out the
same hours as they did last year, which was 600-man hours. Antidotally they
were successful this year in keeping crime minimal in the shopping areas.
Mayor Benson declared the public hearing open, and invited public testimony
FAVORING or OPPOSING this matter. With no testimony offered, she declared the
public hearing closed.
Councilman Kroonen moved to, by Minute Motion, accept the Cal COPS
Supplemental Law Enforcement Services Funding (SLESF) grant award of $100,000 to
cover the cost for the 2010 Holiday Theft Suppression Program and the acquisition of
necessary equipment, services, and supplies to support front line law enforcement
services. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Governor's Budget Proposal — Mr. Wohlmuth noted that he'd
distributed a memorandum yesterday to City Council regarding the
Governor's Budget Proposal. Therein he identified the most
disturbing part of the proposed budget — elimination of
Redevelopment Agencies Statewide, and there are other parts of the
budget that cause concerns as well. Staff was staying on top of
discussions that occur at the State level, including some information
he'd received today from the City's Lobbyist, Anthony Gonsalves &
Sons, regarding their efforts and enlisting support from the Building
Industry, Chambers of Commerce, Developers, etc. It was both a
Statewide issue and serious concern. If the Governor's proposal to
eliminate Redevelopment Agencies is unsuccessful, he believed the
Govemor will try to take/raid more of the City's Redevelopment funds
or other local General Funds. During the City Council's Retreat last
week, there was discussion about lifting the City's hiring freeze.
However, given this latest development, he was very concerned and
not ready to propose lifting the hiring freeze without knowing what
would happen with the State's raiding of local funds, even though
Proposition 22 passed in November 2010.
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2. City Manaaer Meetina Summaries January 2-13. 2011 —
Mr. Wohlmuth said that also part of the City Council Retreat last
week, he was asked to provide the City Council with a bimonthly
report on meetings he has and projects that he's working on. He
distributed such a report earlier this aftemoon and would continue to
do the same for each City Council Meeting. If there were any
questions or concerns, he offered to address them.
3. Future City Council Aaenda Items — Mr. Wohlmuth called attention to
the new sub -heading that is located on this and all future agendas
under Section XVIII - Reports and Remarks for Councilmembers.
This will provide Councilmembers with the opportunity to request
items for consideration at future City Council Meetings and direct staff
to provide the necessary reports.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
None
C. CITY CLERK
Ms. Klassen asked everyone to join her in wishing Deputy City Clerk
Grace Mendoza happy birthday today.
D. PUBLIC SAFETY
o Fire Department
None
o Police Department
None
E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Reauests for Action:
1. Fourth District Supervisor John Benoit — Mayor Benson noted
that earlier in the meeting Supervisor Benoit had been in
attendance to make a presentation to Pat Walsh to recognize
his good work at Palm Desert High School. However, she'd
inadvertently forgotten to announce him and wanted everyone
to know that such a presentation was to have been made,
which was notable to have a Supervisor do so.
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2. Coachella Valley Animal Campus — Councilmember Finerty
requested that the City follow up in eamest on the commitment
made earlier in today's meeting to help fund an employee for
facilitating adoptions and animal fostering.
3. Desert Willow Golf Resort Grand Re-ooeninq— Mayor Benson
reminded her colleagues of the Desert Willow VIP Reception
being held tomorrow evening at 4:00 p.m. She also
encouraged them to be present for the Public Grand Re -
Opening Event on Sunday, January 16, from 11:30 a.m. -
3:00 p.m., noting how proud the City was of the renovation
projects that had just been completed.
4. Palm Desert Visitor Center Open House — Councilmember
Hamik noted the Open House Event that is scheduled for
Wednesday, January 26, 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. at the new
location, 73-470 El Paseo, Suite F7.
o City Council Consideration of Travel Reauests and Reports:
None
o City Council Committee Reports:
1. CVAG Public Safety Committee — Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel
reported that the Committee met Monday this week, and the
main topic of discussion was the "perfect storm" of traffic that
occurred in the Coachella Valley on December 1. He said a
semi -tractor and trailer jack-knifed on the freeway and backed
up traffic there, stranding vehicles and passengers for seven
hours, not knowing what had happened or how they could get
off the Interstate. Unfortunately, he said the driver of the semi -
tractor was killed, and it took four hours to get someone to the
site to take care of the body. Meanwhile, CVAG had put
together a 58-page document for such an occurrence, but it
was not reviewed on December 1. He said it was a terrible
thing, but because of it, agencies will work more closely
together to avoid this situation in the future.
2. American Advertising Federation Palm Sprinas-Desert Cities —
Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel advised that he'd attended the
Federation's recent luncheon with Economic Development
Manager Ruth Ann Moore and Visitor Center Manager
Donna Gomez, where he learned a great deal. Speakers at
the event were The Living Desert's Marketing Manager and
Member of the City's Marketing Committee Kimberly Bowers,
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Palm Springs Desert Resorts Communities CVA's Mark
Graves, Desert Sun's Advertising Manager Sarah Weaver, and
Palm Springs Hospitality Association's Julius Kazen. He noted
that the speakers focused on seasonal visitors' impacts to the
Coachella Valley each year when they spend over $1 billion
here, and impacts from Canadian visitors, with the local
economy experiencing a $123 million impact from their stays.
He said the City's Marketing Committee will be reviewing this
information, including the suggestion that businesses should
be marketing based on these statistics — especially food and
beverage. He went on to report that it's been found that 60% -
65% of visitors to the Coachella Valley come from Southern
California, with current target markets of Southern Califomia,
Westem Canada, and the Pacific Northwest, and airline traffic
is up 3.27% in the last eight months.
3. Art In Public Places Commission —
El Paseo Invitational Exhibition Opening Ceremony —
Councilman Kroonen conveyed that he, along with
Mayor Benson and Councilmember Hamik, enjoyed
participating in the Opening Ceremonies for the new sculpture
exhibit, it was wonderful. He was extremely impressed by the
works being shown, and it was very pleasant to hear from the
artists, many of whom had come from a distance for the event,
and there were also many local artists represented as well.
Mayor Benson offered her congratulations for a fine Exhibition
as well, noting that City Public Art Coordinator Deborah
Schwartz put it together this year instead of the City hiring a
curator and paying up to $10,000 for the contract. She felt it
was one of the best El Paseo Exhibits for the City in many
years, including having more artists out for the opening than
ever before on a very chilly evening. Each piece was
inspirational in how the artist related it to the desert. She
strongly encouraged everyone to tour the Exhibition on
El Paseo, because it was a great collection and tribute to
Ms. Schwartz's work.
"Stories From the heART" Community Gallery Reception —
Councilman Kroonen went on to report on the new show in the
City Hall North Wing Community Gallery, with the opening
reception being held Monday evening, January 10, and it was
equally pleasant.
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o City Council Comments:
1. Corporation Yard Visit—Councilmember Hamik said she made
a visit to the City's Corp. Yard with Messrs. Wohlmuth and
Greenwood and was very impressed with the operation. She
commended Maintenance Services Manager
Carlos Hernandez for his good work and the great work of his
staff there keeping the facility immaculate.
2. City Council Retreat - January 6-7. 2011 — Councilmember
Harnik commented that last week's Retreat was very
productive; it was wonderful working with her colleagues, and
she felt a lot of progress was made with a lot of innovative
thinking. She complimented staff for being professional and
well prepared, and she also praised facilitator Carolyn Stark,
who was in the audience at today's meeting.
Councilman Kroonen echoed Councilmember Hamik's
comments about the Retreat last week. He, too, felt it was
very successful, and Ms. Stark's leadership there was most
appreciated.
3. Conaratulations to Risk Manager Gary Rosenblum — On behalf
of his colleagues, Councilman Kroonen congratulated
Mr. Rosenblum for his recent appointment to the National
Advisory Committee on Occupational Safety and Health.
4. Holiday Events — Councilman Kroonen praised everyone
responsible for both the employee Holiday Party at The Living
Desert and the Committee/Commission Appreciation Dinner at
J. W. Marriott Desert Springs Resort. He thought everyone
enjoyed the events, and they were greatly appreciated.
5. Optimist Club/P.D.H.S. Students of the Month —
Councilman Kroonen reflected on the 7:00 a.m. monthly
breakfast sponsored by the Optimist Club at Desertarc,
reporting that he participated on the moming of December 15
and found it fantastic. Years ago he had the opportunity of
participating when his son was honored. It was great to remind
everyone of the very fine caliber of young people in the
Palm Desert community, and he looked forward to participating
in future breakfasts whenever it was his tum to do so.
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o Suggested Items for Future Citv Council Meetina Agendas
1. City Council Meetina Broadcasts — Councilmember Harnik
asked to see a staff report regarding the available options for
televising or web -streaming City Council Meetings.
2. Cal State University "Ring Road" — Mayor Pro Tem Spiegel
asked to have the "Ring Road" be discussed on a future
agenda.
3. CaI State/UCR — Councilman Kroonen asked for a general
update on the relationship issues between the City and
CaI State/UCR. He said Councilmember Hamik and he were
recently out there visiting with Cal State officials, and it seemed
to him that there were some issues. Councilmember Hamik
agreed.
4. Virginia Waring International Piano Competition —
Councilman Kroonen said that in reviewing City Council
Meeting Minutes from August 26, 2010, consideration of a
funding request by the Piano Competition was not resolved
due to a 2-2 tie vote, and it received no action. He requested
that the item be brought back for further consideration at the
next City Council Meeting.
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
Upon a motion by Finerty, second by Kroonen, and 5-0 vote of the City Council,
Mayor Benson adjoumed the meeting at 5:25 p.m.
ATTEST:
RA
HELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
JEAN-M. BENS ' , MAYOR
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