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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2014-02-13MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2014 CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER 73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260 I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M. Mayor Tanner convened the meeting at 3:00 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Councilmember Jean M. Benson Councilmember Jan C. Harnik Councilman Robert A. Spiegel Mayor Pro Tem Susan Marie Weber Mayor Van G. Tanner Also Present: John M. Wohlmuth, City Manager David J. Erwin, City Attorney Robert W. Hargreaves, Assistant City Attorney Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk Russell Grance, Director of Building & Safety Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development Martin Alvarez, Director of Economic 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 Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager Larry Sherman, Admin. Sgt., Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Dept. Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS) None MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION Request for Closed Session: A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8: 1) Property: Lease Property - 73710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite No. 100, Palm Desert Negotiating Parties: Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Paul S. Gibson/City of Palm Desert Property Owner: City of Palm Desert Other Parties: Law Office of Hanover & Shaw Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment 2) Property: 44900 San Clemente Circle (APN 627-074-006), Palm Desert Negotiating Parties: Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Martin Alvarez/City of Palm Desert Property Owner: Lee Anna Palmer Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment B. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1): 1) Silver Spur Reserve v. City of Palm Desert, et al., Riverside County Superior Court, Case No. CIV 80790; DCA No. E023514 2) WNRA Palm Desert 103, LP, v. City of Palm Desert, et al., Riverside County Superior Court, Case No. PSC 1400549 C. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2): Number of potential cases: 2 With City Council concurrence, Mayor Tanner adjourned the meeting to Closed Session at 3:01 p.m. He reconvened the meeting at 4:01 p.m. V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M. A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION. Mr. Erwin stated that he needed to ask the City Council's consideration of adding an item to the agenda that came up immediately before the meeting began today, having to do with existing litigation that was discussed in the 2 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Closed Session just ended, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1): 3) City of Palm Desert v. Shah, Riverside County Superior Court, Case No. INC 1301195 He added that there were no reportable actions from the Closed Session just ended. On a motion by Spiegel, second by Harnik, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None), the aforementioned Existing Litigation Item No. 3 was added to the list of existing litigation cases for Closed Session. VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Councilmember Jean M. Benson VII. INVOCATION - Mayor Van G. Tanner VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B MS. ROMMY PINNEY, La Quinta, CA, said she spoke at the last meeting, asking Councilmembers to investigate the reality of Walmart's claims after it recently opened the Neighborhood Market in Palm Desert. She went on to say that what Walmart says compared to the reality are different, and she had invited two Walmart Associates who work at the La Quinta store to join her here today to share their experience. MS. MARIA LEDEZMA, Coachella, CA, addressed the City Council, and her remarks were translated by Ms. Rommy Pinney. She related that she'd been working for Walmart No. 1805 in La Quinta for about 10 years. Currently, she makes approximately $15/hour as a full-time worker, which meant about 35 hours/week. Further, Ms. Ledezma is a mother and father of three school -age kids, and it is very hard for her to take them to school. MS. GRACIELA BLANCAS, Coachella, CA, also addressed the City Council, with the remarks being translated by Ms. Pinney. She, too, works for Walmart in La Quinta and is full-time but only works 35-38 hours per week; she's worked there for 10 years and makes less than $14/hour. She said it was hard for her to take care of her 80-year-old mother and her three grandchildren, one of whom is in college, the other two in high school, with the salary she makes at Walmart. She added that it affects her greatly when her hours are cut by two or three each week. MR. STEVE FINGER, Palm Desert, CA, referred to the Mayor's earlier invocation where he asked for guidance in the Council's doing the best for its constituents. He said the reason the prior speakers were present today was to bring forward an issue that the Council may or may not be aware of — the disparity of what they are earning 3 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 at Walmart and what they need to earn. He said that while these ladies came from Walmart, he wasn't only concerned about what Walmart pays but that all the large Palm Desert businesses allow all their employees to earn a living wage. He went on to say that in Palm Desert, according to the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, one needs just about $11 /hour for a single person to live here, and one needs just a bit over $21/hour if they have one child, which is the situation of many, many workers at Walmart and other businesses. Although these very employees work full-time, trying to work enough to earn that money, since they only work 35 hours at one of those businesses so that the benefits law doesn't kick in, they are sometimes found at two jobs here just to make enough to go home and support their family. He said this leads to the other problem that was expressed — taking the children to school and taking care of the children if they're working full-time plus another full-time job; they don't get the family time that they deserve. He said the Minimum Wage/Living Wage Movement is growing across America. Over 100 municipalities have already increased their living wage, and he said that people all over were coming out to say they need a raise in that minimum wage. In Washington, DC, he said the Council actually voted to raise the minimum wage, but the Mayor vetoed it; shortly thereafter, Washington, DC, and surrounding counties voted in an $11.50 wage that kicks in over the course of three years. He said this was being done because people need that money in order to live. He suggested to City Council that at least for the large employers in Palm Desert, they be urged to come to the table to work out something so those increases come more quickly. He noted that what the prior ladies didn't mention was that they'd worked at Walmart for five years before they got up to an hourly rate over $10, and he thanked the Council for its consideration of his suggestion. MS. MARNELL FARLEY, Palm Desert, CA, wished to stand up and speak out for employees and people who care about workers at Walmart. She was grateful for the employees coming before Council today to share their real concern that there was a possible misunderstanding about the numbers, relating that she'd personally spoken to the manager at the new Walmart Neighborhood Market on Highway 111 the day it opened here, who said that all the employees were getting a wage of $17/hour. She said all of these things could definitely be attributed to misinformation, but it's always nice to talk to the employees; and that's what she did. She then found out what was true for them, and it made it very simple for her as a mom and a grandmother right here in Palm Desert, which she knew was a very affluent community and that the City Council does the very best it can to make a level playing field for everyone. She noted that the City has two Walmarts — the big -box Walmart near the freeway and the new Neighborhood Market downtown — Walmart is part of the community. Therefore, she was standing up and supporting, just as Walmart employees across the nation are doing, coinciding with their slogan, "Standing Up and Speaking Out," which she applauded. She announced that there is an action going on tomorrow, 9:00 a.m. at the Palm Springs Walmart at the Ramon Shopping Center, and she invited everyone to join their group there as the workers and local people support the protest. She said anyone who comes can talk to other employees, as well, because it was helpful to have the dialog, and she 4 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 thanked City Council for being willing to listen to their concerns. She especially thanked the employees from Walmart who were willing to come and speak today. Mayor Tanner thanked the speakers for their comments and said Council would try to do what it can. IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS A. PRESENTATION TO RECOGNIZE PATRICIA KENT FOR HER SERVICE TO THE CITY OF PALM DESERT AND ITS AUDIT, INVESTMENT & FINANCE COMMITTEE, 2009 - 2013. On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Tanner presented an engraved crystal clock to Ms. Kent and generously thanked her for her years of service on the City's Audit, Investment & Finance Committee. Ms. Kent was most appreciative and said it had been truly an honor to serve the Committee. She said Palm Desert should be a proud City for what it does, that she was very impressed with the Finance Department, and had very much enjoyed serving the four-year term. She said she would like to come back in the future and possibly serve on the Planning Commission at some point. B. APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS VACANCIES ON AND REAPPOINTMENTS TO THE CITY'S STANDING COMMITTEES AND COMMISSIONS. Councilman Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Architectural Review Commission: Reappoint Karel Lambell and Chris Van Vliet each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 2) Art In Public Places Commission: Appoint Melissa Blalock to Kim Snyder's term (Dec. 31, 2015); reappoint Donna Jean Darby and Maureen Thompson each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 3) Audit. Investment & Finance Committee: Appoint Abram Goldman to a four-year term, filling the vacancy created by Ron Crisp's resignation (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017) and appoint Joseph Pradetto to a four-year term, filling the vacancy created by Patricia Kent's resignation (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 4) Buildina Board of ADDeals & Condemnation: Reappoint Eric Vogt to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 5) El Paseo Business Association Board of Directors: Reappoint Sonia Campbell and Robert Fliday each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 6) Housina Commission: Appoint Gregory Ballard to the term formerly held by Gene Colombini (Dec. 31, 2014), appoint Arlene Whitehurst to the term formerly held by Donna Lewis (Dec. 31, 2014), and appoint Mike Lewis to the term formerly held by Verna Smith (Dec. 31, 2017); reappoint Jane Turner to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 7) Library Promotion Committee: Reappoint Barbara Rosenberg to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 8) Marketina Committee: Appoint Franchesca Forrer of Westfield to the term formerly held by Stephanie Loog (Dec. 31, 2017), appoint Bruce Nation of Desert Willow to the term formerly held by Marlane Wolf (Dec. 31, 2017), appoint Ray Rodriguez of 5 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Casuelas Cafe/Cork Tree to the term formerly held by Tim Snyder (Dec. 31, 2014), appoint Kerry Graves of The Living Desert to the term formerly held by Jennie Rayner (Dec. 31, 2015); reappoint Emily Bird-Hrivnak and Jeffrey Norman each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 9) Parks & Recreation Commission: Appoint Mike Hardin to a four- year term as Alternate (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017), appoint Kevin Kalman, General Manager, Desert Recreation District, as Ex-officio Member, taking the place of Jeff Ronci; reappoint Lynn Jutovsky, Ray Rodriguez, and Christopher Thomas each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 10) Planning Commission: Reappoint Ken Stendell to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 11) Rent Review Commission: Appoint Thomas Hayes to Josef Jonathan's term (Dec. 31, 2016), reappoint Arne Werchick to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 12) Citizens' Sustainabilitv Committee: Appoint Courtney Lingle to John Greenwood's term (Dec. 31, 2014), appoint Dennis Guinaw to Ellis Langford's term (Dec. 31, 2017); reappoint Bob Leo and Luke Taylor each to a four-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2017); 13) Youth Committee: Reappoint Roman Bloch, Kaylie Chen, Windy Chisem, Michelle Dan, Victoria Delapaz, Emily Goldstone, Yung Kim, Jessica Kozlak, Andrew Mehta, Jozanne Murphy, Cassidy Quilling, Don Sandoval-Heglund, Samantha Sandoval, Daniel Sanford, and Taylor Schmidman each for a one-year term (Jan. 1, 2014 - Dec. 31, 2014). Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). C. PRESENTATION OF UPDATE ON GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION & VISITORS BUREAU (CVB) ACTIVITIES. MR. SCOTT WHITE, President/CEO of the Greater Palm Springs Convention & Visitors Bureau (CVB), first acknowledged Councilman Spiegel for all his hard work and efforts on the Joint Powers Executive Committee. He also recognized Bob Carey in the audience today from Allied PRA Palm Springs and a number of other Board Members — he noted that there were two Boards - the JPA (Joint Powers Authority) Board and the HIBC (Hospitality Industry & Business Council) Board — and also from Palm Desert are Bob Schneider - Desert Adventures, Gary Cardiff - Cardiff Transportation, Ralph Scatena - J. W. Marriott Desert Springs, and Lee Morcus - The Chop House. He went on to provide an update of their activities specifically for Palm Desert. He said he had arrived in the area in December 2010, being able to come back to this beautiful destination after about a 15-year absence. In 2012 the HIBC Board convened a strategic session, going off -site to talk about the future of the industry and what they needed to do as an organization to make sure they stay relevant, healthy, and move forward in the right direction. The strategic plan was released and the exercise was done again in 2013. One of the key priorities for that plan was how to grow funding for the CVB to really help it continue to position and market the destination on both a national and international scope. Through their research, they discovered that there were a lot of misperceptions about Greater Palm Springs, especially further east in the country and abroad. People think it's 115 degrees here year-round, that it's only a retirement 6 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 community with nothing to do, and many didn't even know there's an airport here. Although, the people who knew otherwise and had been here in the past described it as an oasis, a beautiful retreat, wonderful, etc. So the question became how to help individuals around the globe truly understand what this destination has to offer. As a group, they decided to look at the Tourism Marketing District; he pointed out that the organization put the BID (Business Improvement District) in place in 2008, and it started in 2009. When that was done, the CVB gave back to the cities much of the T.O.T. (Transient Occupancy Tax) that was currently being received by the CVB. Further, he said they looked at and also hired a firm to look at the BID process and its set-up, and they decided to move forward with a separate Tourism Marketing District (TMD) to keep it separate from the BID that went through the County. The new TMD comes directly to the CVB and is being managed and overseen by the JPA. It's a 1 % increase to the hotels with 50 or more rooms. He said they attempted to bring on the small hotels and some of the vacation rentals to be part of that process, but they realized there was still a lot of work to be done in that area to help them understand what the efforts would be. Therefore, the large hotels decided to move forward and start the consumer and national marketing process and really show the community, elected officials, and everyone else what progress can be made with these new-found dollars. The 1% will generate about $3 million per year for the organization; all of it will be dedicated out -of - market into both national and regional: 65% to be dedicated to national print campaign, 23% to the drive market, which is still the area's "bread & butter," especially in the summertime as airline seat capacity decreases by two-thirds of what's coming in, and then about 10-12% to international markets. He referred to the in-depth packet of materials that was provided to Councilmembers just prior to his presentation (now on file and of record in the City Clerk's Office), highlighting that the CVB advertises in all of the airline publications — United, American, Virgin, Alaska, WestJet, etc. — to make sure that those routes continue to be strong, have full capacity, and good revenues. For example, in Alaska Airlines' magazine, CVB did a six - to eight -month buy with them, they offered to dedicate some editorial sections — with a 21-page section about Greater Palm Springs in their December magazine. Further, WestJet did a nine -page overview section, and he was confident there would be other opportunities with WestJet, United, and some of the other airline carriers. MR. WHITE went on to say that the CVB is also using some of the funds to help establish new service. For instance, the Chicago non-stop flight on American used to come into the desert in September, then they moved to October, and this year they moved to the third week of November, which makes it very difficult for groups coming in without service from Chicago — a major hub for people coming into this market. So he said they sat down with American Airlines and will do a contract with them for a minimum revenue guarantee that says if they start flying October 1, the CVB will guarantee a 7 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 gap, to a limited capability, to show that it feels bullish about October in Greater Palm Springs. He said they're also having those conversations with United, Virgin, and any other airlines in the future about how to continue to develop the airport to be year-round and not just seasonal, with the great capacity that's already available from November through the end of May. MR. WHITE stated that one of the things they've been able to expand is their TV presence; previously, the CVB would do a little bit of TV in the summertime, now it's being done in Southern California from May through December. He said they're targeting markets in San Francisco, Seattle, also in Canada — all the major markets that WestJet serves. As an example, the CVB is sponsoring the news section in Canada, so when the weather report comes on during the report, it's being sponsored by Greater Palm Springs, with a 30-second commercial following. Additionally, he said the CVB is also advertising during hockey games in Canada, which is very popular, with a lot of Canadians coming down to attend an L.A. Kings game, then coming over to spend the weekend in the desert. He added that it was found that a lot of Canadians can't even go and visit their own teams when they're at home — the Calgary Flames are always sold out — so many fans come down and stay in the desert, travel to Los Angeles to see the game, then come back, and the CVB wants to continue to capitalize on it. Further, he said CVB is using outdoor advertising, which is new — they've been in Minneapolis in the Mall of America, with 34 digital billboards throughout the Mall of America starting in November and running through March. He said CVB is also doing outdoor billboards into San Francisco on the B.A.R.T. System for people riding or disembarking; they'll see 34 digital billboards there - talking about different events happening here and promoting all the different activities, from spa to golf, etc. He said CVB is also in the meetings market, in Smart Meetings where it hasn't been in the past, even though the sales team has done a great job of promoting events into the destination, now it's utilizing this venue, along with Successful Meetings, Embassy Magazine, and Association News & Sports Travel. He went on to say that they've taken that "oasis" feel on the road to different trade shows and events, with great partnership and support from all of the local hotels. Additionally, CVB is now advertising digitally too, with weather.com, tripadvisor.com, Travelzoo, and a lot of their partners are partnering here too. As a result of the partnership with Travelzoo, he noted the destination's been named as one of the "wow" destinations for 2014; and then Frommer's also announced Greater Palm Springs as one of the top destinations in 2014. MR. WHITE said that what happens with a lot of these advertisements and marketing tools is that they start to get picked up, not only by consumers but by the professionals who plan meetings, by the press that starts to write stories, and as those stories start to go viral and provide more exposure for the area, it really helps leverage and take advantage of the assets for this destination. For instance, on the international side, he said the CVB is now 8 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 able to get into China. There are representation offices in the U.K., Germany, and Australia; CVB was able to add China last year, just hiring a new sales manager there, Sherry Wang. He added that they went to China in October, and there was incredible interest in Greater Palm Springs after having President Xi Jinping at Sunnylands last year. The Chinese market really follows its political leadership — finding that a lot of them like to go shop, play golf, and enjoy the hot springs — and they also want to go to Sunnylands, take pictures outside, be where their president was, and CVB wants to really leverage that opportunity. He offered that they see partnerships with Visit California, L.A. CVB, and LAX as an opportunity to keep that market within Southern California, and they, too, want to partner with this area and consider it a potential asset. MR. WHITE moved on to report specifically on the City of Palm Desert and in 2013, the CVB received a total of $260,000 in T.O.T. (Transient Occupancy Tax) payments and delivered a total of 487 leads to Palm Desert Hotels, which generated potentially around 350,000 room nights. He said they booked 51 groups into Palm Desert for 2013 and the future - six groups were actually booked in 2013 for 2013. Those groups generated about 46,000 room nights. The 45 future groups will generate about 45,000 room nights, $6.3 million in room revenue, and over $570,000 in T.O.T. He said if they looked back at meetings booked in the past for 2013, CVB booked 36 meetings into Palm Desert from previous years, and those meetings represent 28,000 room nights, $3.9 million in revenue, and over $357,000 in T.O.T. Combination of the two for 2013 will generate over $930,000 in T.O.T. back to the City. He added that they cannot track a lot of the leisure markets that are coming to the destination, as it's hard to measure how those efforts influenced someone through consumer marketing to stay at a Palm Desert hotel, but he felt from the T.O.T. revenues and the Star Report that things are moving well in the right direction. He said their media efforts generated a lot of positive press for the destination; there were many national articles that specifically called out Palm Desert and a lot of its hospitality community, and it generated $450,000 in media value - new value that didn't have to be purchased that created articles about the destination. As for the CVB's Travel Industry Sales Department, which works with tour operators and travel agents, it did about 40 FAMS and site inspections last year; 20 of those included a Palm Desert hotel, and they're highlighting through both Travel Industry Sales, as well as Media Relations. They also have the Visitor Guide that's delivered to about 25,000 consumers, along with thousands more online and digitally too. Additionally, they have the Golf Guide, with the cover featuring Stone Eagle that is a dramatic shot, and they're using it for their ads too, which are also shown on the front of the Business Development Plan. He thanked the City Council and wanted to let them know that they're working hard on Palm Desert's behalf and really trying to market the destination. He pointed out that one of the other areas they're working on is twice daily rail service from Los Angeles, as they 9 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 believe it to be an important component for the destination. Further, they also think that the CV Link Project being undertaken by Tom Kirk at CVAG (Coachella Valley Association of Governments) is an important asset for the tourism/hospitality industry and for the destination, and they look forward to having it as a resource and tool for both the community and for visitors in the future. Councilman Spiegel noted that at one time, the City of Palm Desert was giving the CVB a lot more money than it is currently. He said in 2007 the City gave $1,053,000; whereas, in 2013, it was $260,000 — saving $750,000 through the CVB's BID process. MR. WHITE said they very much appreciated it, and they also appreciate the opportunity that the hotels are taking to play a more active and direct role with the CVB. They'll continue to look at how they're funded. Currently, there is the one 2% BID that comes through the County, with the 1 % BID that comes through the Tourism Marketing District, but they'd like to combine them in the future and work on a BID process that gets reviewed every five years versus every year. He said the every -year review that's the practice now is a lot of work for staff to go through all the reporting. He pointed out that they still want to do the necessary reporting to be absolutely transparent, but it does take a lot of work by staff to renew those BIDs every year. Councilmembers thanked Mr. White for the thorough presentation. No other action was required nor taken. X. CONSENT CALENDAR A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of January 23, 2014. Rec: Approve as presented. B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant Nos. 149, 150, and 153. Rec: Approve as presented. C. CLAIM AGAINST THE CITY (#735) by Thomas Ostergren in an Unspecified Amount. Rec: By Minute Motion, reject the Claim and direct the City Clerk to so notify the Claimant. 10 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Whole Foods Market, NWC Highway 111 & Town Center Way, Palm Desert. Rec: Receive and file. E. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES. 1. Marketing Committee Meeting of December 17, 2013. 2. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting of November 5, 2013. Rec: Receive and file. F. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Ron Crisp - Audit, Investment & Finance Committee. Rec: Receive with very sincere regret. G. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the 2014 Spring Concert Series. Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve the 2014 Spring Concert Series schedule; 2) approve Contract No. C33320A with Jennifer Keith Quintet (Swing/Jazz) in the amount of $2,825; 3) approve Contract No. C33320B with Britain's Finest (Beatles Tribute Band) in the amount of $1,800; 4) approve Contract No. C33320C with R Buckle Road (Country) in the amount of $825; 5) approve Contract No. C33320D with Instant Replay (Variety/Pop/Rock) in the amount of $2,200; 6) approve Contract No. C33320E with Palm Desert High School (PDHS) Jazz Ensemble in the amount of $300; 7) authorize the Mayor to execute said contracts; 8) authorize City Manager to approve expenditure with Studio Instrument Rentals (SIR), Palm Springs, California, for professional staff, instrumental equipment, sound and/or lighting in conjunction with the concerts; 9) authorize City Manager to approve expenditure with Morris Desert Media for radio promotion and live remotes for the concert series — funds are available in Account No. 110-4416-414-3061. H. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Security for San Pablo Village, 73520 El Paseo (NEC San Pablo Avenue/EI Paseo) (Wessman Development, Applicant). Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to release the security for improvements for San Pablo Village. 11 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Upon a motion by Spiegel, second by Harnik and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None), the Consent Calendar was approved as presented. XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER None XII. RESOLUTIONS A. RESOLUTION NO. 2014 - 05 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE FISCAL YEAR 2013-2014 BUDGET AS A RESULT OF MID -YEAR ADJUSTMENTS. Mr. Gibson reported that staff recommended increasing revenues by $475,000, which includes increasing the Building/Subdivision Fees by $150,000 and Plan Check Fees by $200,000, increasing Transient Occupancy Tax (T.O.T.) and Short-term Rentals revenues by $425,000; but decreasing Sales Tax by ($300,000) due to reporting of the last two quarters of collections being lower and flat, respectively, and feeling it was prudent to lower the estimate to what it appears to be for the year at this point in time. He added that the next time the City will receive a Sales Tax Report will be the end of March, and staff will provide an update during the Budget Meetings thereafter. For expenditures, he said that they're being increased by $306,000, with the two major expenses being that of adding a new Assistant City Manager and hiring a temporary Building Inspector, with a private source being used for this position. He offered to answer questions. Mayor Pro Tem Weber moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2014-05. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). B. RESOLUTION NO. 2014 - 06 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING PORTIONS OF RESOLUTION NO. 2013-49, "EXHIBIT A" - SALARY SCHEDULE, SALARY RANGES, AND ALLOCATED CLASSIFICATIONS FOR THE PERIOD OF JULY 1, 2013 - JUNE 30, 2014 (ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER). Mr. Wohlmuth stated that an Allocated Positions/Salary Resolution is approved as a part of every fiscal year's budget, and staff was now proposing to add an Assistant City Manager (ACM) with the duties of helping with Successor Agency responsibilities, a Desert Willow drought -tolerant turf reduction and small remodel project to improve playability, hotel development, and special events. Further, he said as the Successor Agency gets into having its Long-range Property Management Plan approved, hopefully within the next couple of months, and then working from it, the 12 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 ACM will be assisting him and staff in the process of disposing of property (well over 500 acres) as required by AB 1x 26 and AB 1484 to developers. Palm Desert staff will then work closely with those developers to develop the property in ways that will increase revenues — Sales Tax and Transient Occupancy Tax (T.O.T.), specifically T.O.T. at Desert Willow, and Sales Tax generation on some of the properties to be sold, and the ACM will also assist with the Government Purpose properties (i.e., Cal State). He added that over the last two years since the dissolution of the Redevelopment Agency, existing staff has been doing a wonderful job of handling all the required processes, specifically Director of Housing Janet Moore, Management Analyst Veronica Tapia, and Director of Economic Development Martin Alvarez. He said that while he's delegated numerous projects to Mr. Alvarez, who's handled them tremendously well, he's going to need help going forward. Moreover, that is the intent of the subject position request; there are many programs and projects, and he added that once the former Redevelopment Agency's Bond Funds are available, there will be even more projects, such as Alessandro Alley, Parks, Roads (Portola Avenue Widening and the 1-10 Interchange), many of which are handled by the Public Works Department, with coordination needing to occur at a higher level. Therefore, he said the subject Resolution modifies the existing Allocated Positions/Salary Schedule by adding an ACM to assist with all the aforementioned functions. He pointed out that at this point, the subject Resolution does not add a Building & Safety Inspector, as the City is contracting for that position for the remainder of FY 2013-2014. Depending on the volume of building inspection requests in the coming months, he anticipated seeing such a position request for FY 2014-2015, but feeling for now that the City has a good contract for an inspector with the private sector (although slightly more expensive) and will stay this course through June 30. In answer to question, Mr. Wohlmuth said he'd not yet made a decision about who would fill the new ACM position; although, there has been interest in it. Further responding, he said once the Resolution is approved, staff will advertise for several weeks locally with a low-cost approach, specifically the City website, adding that he knows some individuals with great experience who would love the opportunity. He anticipated having the person on staff late March or early April. Councilman Spiegel moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2014-06. Motion was seconded by Weber. Councilmember Harnik acknowledged that the position comes with a tremendous amount of responsibility, and all the matters mentioned are very important to the City, as previous discussions about many of these things have occurred. She said it was nice to see that the proposed salary was more in line with reality. Mayor Pro Tem Weber agreed. 13 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Mayor Tanner concurred, adding that for the FY 2014-2015 Budget process, the salary plus benefits are well in line for Assistant City Managers. He hoped that the people Mr. Wohlmuth had in mind were the same ones he had. Mayor Tanner called for the vote on the motion to adopt the Resolution, and it carried 5-0 (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). C. RESOLUTION NO. 2014 - 07 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING JOHN M. WOHLMUTH, CITY MANAGER, TO SIGN ALL COPIES OF APPLICATION -AGREEMENT FOR MEDICARE -ONLY COVERAGE FOR EMPLOYEES OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT WHO ARE MEMBERS OF THE CALIFORNIA PUBLIC EMPLOYEES' RETIREMENT SYSTEMS. Human Resources Manager Lori Carney offered that this was a technical resolution offered by CaIPERS, noting that she'd been before City Council a couple of times previously regarding the fact that the City has employees who were hired prior to 1983 and excluded from Medicare. She said this action would be the final one needed in order for those employees to participate in Medicare; they can contribute to Medicare and earn credits for their future retirement eligibility. Councilman Spiegel moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2014-07. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). XIII. ORDINANCES A. For Introduction: None B. For Adoption: None XIV. NEW BUSINESS A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE CITY'S SUPPORT FOR THE SINGLE-FAMILY AFFORDABLE SOLAR HOMES (SASH) INCENTIVE PROGRAM UNDER THE CALIFORNIA SOLAR INITIATIVE AND RELATED ACTIONS. Housing Department Management Analyst Jessica Gonzales stated that the subject request would memorialize the City's support to the Single-family 14 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Affordable Solar Homes Program (SASH) and efforts of GRID Alternatives as program manager. She added that the SASH Program is one of the California Solar Initiatives Programs restricted to lower -income households to provide free or low-cost solar photovoltaic. She said that GRID Alternatives has successfully installed 61 solar systems for lower -income homeowners in Palm Desert, thereby reducing the energy cost and consumption for these homeowners. She noted that a representative of GRID Alternatives was present to provide a brief presentation on the Program and what they've accomplished in Palm Desert. MS. BAMBI TRAN, Regional Director, GRID Alternatives, thanked City Council and staff for the partnership opportunity with the City to help low- income families and also provide job training opportunities for local workers. She went on to say that GRID Alternatives is a non-profit solar contractor whose motto is based on three aspects — people, planet, and employment. They help low-income families receive solar systems at low or no -cost to reduce their electricity bill. She said with the vast amount of sunshine here, they know it's an issue in summertime for running air conditioning; and for many families on fixed incomes with high utility bills, it's a hardship. Therefore, GRID Alternatives is able to help reduce their electricity bill. She said they also focus on employment and partner with local organizations, like College of the Desert, to provide hands-on solar training to local workers, offering them needed experience to get jobs in this fast-growing industry. So far, she reported that they've provided 60 paid training opportunities for local workers, and with the City's continued support, they hope to provide more and partner with College of the Desert and other job -training organizations to be able to do this. She said GRID Alternatives has been focused in the Desert Rose Community in Palm Desert, being able to help at least 60 families there and hoping to continue to collaborate with other community organizations, such as Habitat For Humanity, to provide families with more reduction in their energy bills, along with job -training opportunities. She stated that the Solar Foundation Report recently indicated that one out of every 142 jobs last year was created in the solar industry; many of them are here locally with all the solar farms, along with the residential and commercial buildings going solar. Their goal is to capture that trend and provide trained workers that opportunity so they can participate in the solar workforce as well. She reported that they've been able to provide what they do with partnerships — working closely with City of Palm Desert staff to identify homeowners who might qualify and leading them through the process. GRID uses a turnkey approach to work with the client to provide energy -efficiency education, the design and permitting, installation, as well as a warranty and maintenance training to the homeowner. She added that their work comes with a 10-year labor warranty and long-term manufacturer's warranty on the equipment. She said GRID's commitment here is long-term, and they would love the City's support for continuation of the Program. 15 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Councilmember Harnik said she appreciated seeing information in the staff report regarding the volunteer and job -training components of the Program. She asked where funds came from to buy the equipment. MS. TRAN responded that the majority of the funds come from the SASH Rebate Program that GRID manages on behalf of the California Solar Initiative. She added it allows Tower -income families to get rebates in order to get solar systems, and if there are any gaps in that funding, GRID also does both local fund-raising and obtains corporate donations. She said they also partner with manufacturers for donated equipment. Further responding, she said the SASH Rebates are ratepayer -funded from the three major investor -owned utility companies. She explained that as local Southern California Edison ratepayers, there is a portion of those funds designated for supporting low-income programs managed by the CPUC (California Public Utilities Commission). She added that fund is then divided up into various programs; there is the SASH Program for single-family homes and the MASH Program for multi -family residences. She confirmed that it is mandated by the CPUC that funds are taken and put aside for the Program being managed by GRID. Mayor Tanner commented that he felt this was a great initiative, citing the 55 houses in the City's Desert Rose Community that had benefitted from this Program, and he hoped they would promise to be tremendously successful in reducing the electricity rates. Further, he commended Ms. Tran for the other projects that GRID is working on with low-income homes. He wasn't sure how much a ratepayer pays on the electric bill for this but felt it was money well spent. In answer to Mayor Pro Tem Weber's question about what the request for support meant, Ms. Tran said GRID was seeking formal support of their Program. Mr. Wohlmuth added that the general issue surrounded the fact that the Program was being utilized in Desert Rose, and by offering it with the City's support, it can go to other affordable homes throughout the community. So far, it's been in Desert Rose, but it will be expanded throughout the community — Habitat For Humanity homes or other affordable projects. Councilmember Harnik moved to: 1) Waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2014 - 08, declaring the City's support for the Single-family Affordable Solar Homes (SASH) Incentive Program under the California Solar Initiative and the efforts of GRID Alternatives as program manager of the SASH Program; 2) by Minute Motion, authorize the City's Director of Economic Development to designate a point of contact or liaison from City staff to GRID Alternatives to assist in support of SASH Program activities; 3) by Minute Motion, authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute all documents that may be necessary to support the SASH Program and/or participation. Motion was seconded by 16 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Spiegel and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). In response to positive comment about the Program, Ms. Tran said GRID Alternatives will be doing about 30 projects in Desert Rose this spring, and she invited Councilmembers to the groundbreaking event for them. B. CONSIDERATION OF FUNDING REQUEST BY COLLEGE OF THE DESERT (COD) FOUNDATION. Councilmember Harnik announced that she would recuse herself from this agenda item and left the Council Chamber. MR. PETER STURGEON and MS. JAN HAWKINS, representing College of the Desert Foundation, addressed the City Council about the request. MR. STURGEON stated that the Foundation had a tremendous friend in the City of Palm Desert and that it's been an unbelievable partnership for many years. He explained that in 1958 when the College was founded, the Palm Desert community rallied around it, helped get it started, and built the facility that's seen today. He went on to say that in 1973 when the City incorporated, it came along side the College to provide unbelievable support — whether it be the Library, Public Safety Academy, Nursing Faculty, or the new Aquatic Center, the College has enjoyed a wonderful partnership with the City, a heavy reliance in order to achieve what has been done to date. He said COD is Federally accredited as a Hispanic -serving institution, with over half of the 10,000 students being of Hispanic descent, 70% of those being the first in their families to attend college. As a Foundation, he said they are working very hard to raise money to support these students through scholarships and program support. He noted that the COD Foundation is 30 years old and credited Councilman Spiegel for being one of the founding members and its first President. In the Foundation's 30' Anniversary, he said that they have launched the 30 - 30 Initiative. MS. HAWKINS commended their Foundation's forefathers, including Councilman Spiegel, for being so prescient to foresee the needs of the Coachella Valley, and they were very proud currently to see the large number of students entering and graduating the College. Therefore, in order to celebrate 30 years of the Foundation, it has embarked on a 30-day-in- March, $3 million campaign to offer and extend help to all the students across the Coachella Valley by increasing their access to college through scholarships, textbooks, tools, whatever they need; and secondarily to enhance and improve the quality of programming done for those students. She said by providing assistance to students — like improving the computer system that's nine years old and providing access to faster -running computers for the Nursing Department, Public Safety, etc., really driving that 17 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 $3 million of assistance 100% back to student programs. Further, she said they're asking the City of Palm Desert to lead the charge for them with a $30,000 commitment to help raise funds toward the $3 million total, and secondly, asking if Mayor Tanner believed in the initiative to possibly send a letter to the other eight cities in the Coachella Valley that all benefit from the students at College of the Desert, and challenge them to follow suit. She called attention to the packet of materials provided to Councilmembers in their agenda packets, which she said outline the funding priorities. She emphasized that the funding will be used to assist all COD students needing help from throughout the Coachella Valley and reiterated that 100% of the initiative, which can be funded over the next year, will go to student programs. Councilmember Benson felt it was a great idea, especially the Mayor sending a letter to the other cities, because oftentimes they think since College of the Desert is in Palm Desert that it should be the only one responsible for such programs. But it really should be a Valley -wide contribution from all the cities, if they can do the whole $30,000 or a portion thereof. She noted that the College serves everyone here and probably more students from outside Palm Desert than from here. However, it is still the economic engine that drives Coachella Valley youth, and she agreed that the Mayor sending a letter to the other cities, including a suggested sentiment that just because it's in Palm Desert doesn't mean they can't support it — their students are being educated here as much as anyone's. She recommended that the City of Palm Desert lead this charge. Councilman Spiegel pointed out that College of the Desert actually wasn't within the City's jurisdiction - it's part of the State of California. He said while it's never been part of the City, per se, it's one of its greatest assets. Councilman Spiegel moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Commit to contribute $30,000 from the 2014-2015 Fiscal Year Budget to COD Foundation's "Changing Lives" Campaign to assist in raising $3 million in 30 days during March 2014; 2) authorize the Mayor to sign a letter challenging all Coachella Valley cities to make a similar contribution to COD Foundation's "Changing Lives" $3 Million Campaign. Motion was seconded by Weber. Mayor Tanner added that while the discussion here was about the Palm Desert campus, there is a facility that will be serving the Eastern Coachella Valley too, and he would be honored to send a letter under his signature asking each of the Coachella Valley cities to participate in the amount they feel they can. In response to request, Ms. Hawkins said she would let Palm Desert know what the response is, adding that she's meeting with Indio's City Manager Dan Martinez next week. 18 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 Mayor Tanner wished Foundation representatives all the best in their campaign, noting that College of the Desert has graduated several of the Valley's key people, including Mayor Pro Tem Weber. Mayor Tanner called for the vote on the motion to approve the request, and it carried 4-0 (AYES: Benson, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None; ABSENT: Harnik). C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE EXECUTION OF AN ALESSANDRO ALLEY PROJECT BOND PROCEEDS FUNDING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, AND TAKING CERTAIN RELATED ACTIONS (JOINT CONSIDERATION WITH THE SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY). Councilman/Director Spiegel said he and Councilmember/Director Benson had waited a very long time for this project to get to this point. Councilmember/Director Harnik requested that as the City moves forward in undertaking this project, hopefully prior to commencement, it would receive a different name than "Alessandro Alley," as she didn't think "Alley" was befitting of Palm Desert's image. She added that whatever the choice of a name is, it should be chosen and applied right away. Councilmember/Director Benson moved to: 1) Waive further reading and adopt Resolution Nos. 2014 - 09 and SA -RDA 024, approving the execution of an Alessandro Alley Project Bond Proceeds Funding Agreement between the Successor Agency to the Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency and the City of Palm Desert, and taking certain related actions; 2) by Minute Motion, estimate revenue of $250,000 to the Capital Project Fund; 3) by Minute Motion, approve of and authorize the Executive Director and Mayor/Chair to execute the Alessandro Alley Project Bond Proceeds Funding Agreement (Contract No. C33330). Motion was seconded by Spiegel. Councilmember/Director Benson noted she felt the project was long overdue. She uses the road very frequently, every time she does so finding another bump there, and hoped that undertaking this project will save a lot of car repairs. Mayor/Chair Tanner called for the vote on the motion to approve the Bond Proceeds Funding Agreement for the Alessandro Alley Project, and it carried 5-0 (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). XV. CONTINUED BUSINESS None 19 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 XVI. OLD BUSINESS None XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF LANDMARK DESIGNATION FOR THE ADDRESS OF 44870 CABRILLO AVENUE (A.P.N. 625-083-001) AS A LOCAL HISTORIC LANDMARK, Case No. CRPC 13-03 (Douglas Kopp, Applicant). Mr. Grance reviewed the printed staff report, highlighting that the request for adoption of a resolution bestowing Landmark Designation at 44870 Cabrillo Avenue was considered by the City's Cultural Resources Preservation Committee at a public hearing on October 29, 2013, as required by Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 29.40.070, and approved. He added that this residence is significant because it was designed by seminal California architect Rudolph M. Schindler, who worked with Frank Lloyd Wright, and retains integrity in its design. Further, he said the residence is significant for its contribution as an early home built during the transition of Palm Village from predominantly agricultural to early tourism. The residence is eligible for designation as a City landmark in accordance with the following criteria: — Embodies distinctive characteristics and is one of few remaining examples of style, type, period, or method of construction, or possesses high artistic value. — Represents the work of a master builder, designer, or architect, or resource that has yielded or has the potential to yield important information in history or prehistory. — Reflects distinctive examples of community planning or significant development patterns, including those associated with different eras of settlement and growth, agriculture and transportation. Mayor Tanner declared the public hearing open and invited testimony SUPPORTING or OPPOSING the subject Landmark Designation. MR. JIM WEST, Palm Desert, CA, said in his opinion, this property is one of the most important architectural properties in the entire Coachella Valley — not just significant but very significant. He explained that Mr. Schindler is an internationally known architect who came to the desert and helped design this house for Ms. Toole in 1946 when Palm Village was just starting, and it's a significant property because Mr. Schindler was drawing to the close of his career. So not only was he a significant architect, but one that had grown to 20 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 be completely proficient in his skills and did unique things in this property that everyone may not be aware of. He explained that Mr. Schindler had become proficient using a drafting machine, so suddenly, his roofs could become unusual shapes; and this very small house in the middle of the desert feels incredibly large if one is lucky enough to be able to walk inside. He added that one can see the entire Valley through the windows in that small space. Further, he said that Mr. Schindler became famous as an architect because he worked with space — often on properties he designed, they cannot be understood by a mere photograph, one has to walk through them to get the experience. He said the main point he wanted to make was that it was no accident that this house was still here. He related that Mr. Doug Kopp bought the property in 1968 from the original owner, and he and his family have meticulously kept it in place; the walls have been completely cleaned on the inside, and the property is in pristine condition. He commended the City Council for considering this property for Landmark Designation and encouraged its approval. With no further testimony offered, Mayor Tanner closed the public hearing. Councilman Spiegel moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2014 -10, reaffirming the action of the Cultural Resources Preservation Committee to designate 44870 Cabrillo Avenue, Assessor's Parcel No. 625-083-001, with Landmark Designation in accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 29.40.010. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by 5-0 vote (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None). XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. CITY MANAGER 1. City Manaaer Meeting Summaries for the Period of January 13-24, 2014. Mr. Wohlmuth noted the report provided in the agenda packet and offered to answer questions. Councilman Spiegel asked about the call to Jeff Kollin, City of Beverly Hills, regarding the National Urban Fellows Conference moving from J. W. Marriott Desert Springs to Rancho Las Palmas. Mr. Wohlmuth answered that the National Urban Fellows had planned their convention at the J. W. Marriott, and the City was assisting them in a reception at Desert Willow and potentially having the Mayor welcome the group to Palm Desert. Unfortunately, J. W. Marriott was booked and asked the Urban Fellows to move their conference to Rancho Las Palmas, which they did. Further responding, he said the Urban Fellows could have used J. W. Marriott if they'd changed their date, but their 21 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 conference had already been scheduled and attendees had flight plans. Therefore, they moved to Rancho Las Palmas, and instead of having Mayor Tanner welcome the group, he'd asked Rancho Mirage Mayor Richard Kite to welcome them. In further response to question about the meeting with Tom Kirk and Allyn Waggle of CVAG regarding the Portola/I-10 Interchange, he said the City is working on an agreement with CVAG to advance -fund the local share of the interchange cost from bond proceeds. The project is currently estimated at $60 million, a local share would be $15 million, and the City is proposing an agreement with CVAG to send bond funds to them to hold in escrow for that project and solidify what he felt was that Portola Avenue will be the next interchange to be constructed after Jefferson Street. Based on the timing, staff was anticipating starting construction in five to six years. Responding to related question about the Monterey Avenue/I-10 Interchange Modifications Project, Mr. Greenwood said the contracts have all been awarded and contractor should be starting there the first week of April. With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries were received and filed. 2. Jazz Festival Sponsorship Mr. Wohlmuth advised that regarding the January 9 Council action to approve $20,000 for sponsorship of a Palm Desert Jazz Festival in May, producer Jeff Hocker and American Jazz Institute have pulled out of that event due to difficulties in obtaining more sponsors and other issues, such as timing. Therefore, the Jazz Festival at The Living Desert and Desert Willow will not take place. He'd asked Director of Special Programs Frankie Riddle to continue to discuss the idea with them in hopes of having something in the future. B. CITY ATTORNEY None C. CITY CLERK 1. Announcement of City Council Study Session - Thursday, February 27, 2014, at 2:00 p.m., Administrative Conference Room - "Envision Palm Desert - Forward Together" Strategic Plan. Ms. Klassen noted the scheduling of the Study Session on February 27, and Councilmembers acknowledged the date. 22 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 D. PUBLIC SAFETY 1. Fire Department None 2. Police Department None E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL 1. City Council Reauests for Action: a) Thank-vou Letter from Gisborne, New Zealand. Mayor Tanner hoped his colleagues had all seen and read the very heartfelt comments from the representative of the City's Sister City in Gisborne, New Zealand (letter and attachments included in today's agenda packet). With City Council concurrence, the letter was received and filed. 2. City Council Consideration of Travel Requests and Reports: None 3. City Council Committee Reports: a) Riverside County Transportation Commission — Councilmember Harnik stated that RCTC recently held its annual workshop, showing a trend in fees generated through TUMF (Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fee) and other sources for local infrastructure, which will help both CVAG and on the Portola Interchange. She added that it was very informative; and while things are still slow in the Coachella Valley, they are trending better. b) Riverside County Division - Leaaue of California Cities — Councilmember Harnik said the League also recently conducted a meeting. She learned of some interesting legislation to be brought forward, and she'll be providing information on it to Mr. Wohlmuth. c) Coachella Valley Conservation Commission Meetina — Mayor Tanner said he'd attended the meeting at 11:00 a.m. today, with a unanimous decision from the cities present that a letter of support for the plastic bag prohibition regulation will be sent in anticipation that the State will definitely put it through. He noted that they'd used our model and 23 MINUTES REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING FEBRUARY 13, 2014 congratulated the City of Palm Desert for all of its work in presenting what they hope to be the model that the State will use. 4. City Council Comments: a) El Paseo Cruise Night - February 7 — Mayor Tanner said he rode in Friday's event with the convertibles and classic cars. Councilmember Harnik had told him it's the experience of a lifetime, and now he, too, understood. He said there were a tremendous amount of vehicles up and down El Paseo, was a great time, and there was a great turnout for the FIRST WEEKend that night too. 5. Suggested Items for Future City Council Meeting Agendas: None XIX. ADJOURNMENT On a motion by Spiegel, second by Weber, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES: Benson, Harnik, Spiegel, Weber, and Tanner; NOES: None), Mayor Tanner adjourned the meeting at 5:12 p.m. ATTEST: 4111\. 010 RA HELLE D. KLASSE , CITY CLERK CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA VAN G. TANNER, MAYOR 24