HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-08-25MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, AUGUST 25, 2016
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260
I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M.
Mayor Spiegel convened the meeting at 3:04 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Pro Tem Jan C. Harnik
Councilman Sabby Jonathan
Councilman Van G. Tanner
Councilmember Susan Marie Weber
Mayor Robert A. Spiegel
Also Present:
Justin McCarthy, Interim City Manager
Robert W. Hargreaves, City Attomey
Rudy P. Acosta, Assistant City Manager
Russell Grance, Director of Building & Safety
Ryan Stendell, Director of Community Development
Martin Alvarez, Director of Economic Development
Janet M. Moore, Director of Finance/City Treasurer
Lori Carney, Director of Human Resources
Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works
Anthony Baur, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriffs Department
Sgt. David Adams, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Department
Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
None
IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Request for Closed Session:
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 2016
A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: Desert Willow Lot Pads-APNs 620-450-012, -014;
620-450-016, -018, -020; 620-370-002, -004, -017, -018,
-020, -033, -043; 620-400-005, -026; 620-400-008, -010
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Justin McCarthy/Rudy P. Acosta/ Martin Alvarez/City of
Palm Desert/Successor Agency to the Palm Desert
Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: Successor Agency to the Palm Desert
Redevelopment Agency
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
B. Public Employee Appointment pursuant to Govemment Code Section 54957:
Title of Position: City Manager
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Spiegel adjourned the meeting to Closed
Session of the City Council and Successor Agency at 3:05 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. Hargreaves reported that the City Council has directed staff to enter into
negotiations with Ms. Lauri Aylaian for an Agreement as City Manager for the
City of Palm Desert. The expectation is that the Agreement will come back
for approval of the City Council at the September 8 meeting. The Agreement
will be available to the public prior to that meeting.
Mayor Spiegel stated the decision comes after a rigorous and extensive
process that began with the retention of Ralph Anderson & Associates and
Project Manager Dave Morgan on April 28, 2016. They conducted a
nationwide recruitment for a new City Manager for the City of Palm Desert.
After receiving nearly 50 applications from across the country, the Council
selected eight semifinalists for interviews in July. Following those interviews,
the Council narrowed the field to three finalists who were interviewed on
August 24, and Ms. Aylaian was unanimously selected by the Council as the
top candidate. He went on to say that Ms. Aylaian has great knowledge of
the City and can hit the ground running.
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VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Councilman Van G. Tanner
VII. INVOCATION - Mayor Pro Tem Jan C. Harnik
VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
MS. SUSAN FRANCIS, Executive Director of the Ophelia Project, thanked the
Council for supporting them in launching the Ophelia Project at Palm Desert High
School and Palm Desert Charter Middle School. Last year and this year combined,
they will have served 162 Ophelia girls with 34 volunteers from Palm Desert. She
introduced Judy Tanner and Wendy Jonathan as two of the Ophelia Project
mentors. Mrs. Tanner shared they had a fabulous experience as first year mentors
at Palm Desert High School last year and thanked the Council for supporting the
Program. Ms. Francis added that the Program started with freshman and
sophomore students, but this year they plan to serve freshman, sophomores, and
juniors.
IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING SEPTEMBER 5 -11,
2016, AS "SUICIDE PREVENTION WEEK" IN THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Pro Tem Hamik presented the
proclamation to David Muth and fellow members of the local chapter of The
American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.
Mr. Muth said that Suicide Prevention Week is a very important week for
people involved in suicide prevention. He thanked the volunteers and fellow
Board Members, because none of them chose to become involved in suicide
prevention. Based on Riverside County 2013 figures, it's reported that there
were 104 homicides and 238 suicides. He added that suicide is a rising
health care problem, because most people that die by suicide had been
diagnosed with mental illness and/or depression. Many of these people are
someone's relative, mom, dad, or children, and it's everyone's responsibility
to help them, stating most people don't think about it until it hits close to
home. He noted that Mayor Pro Tem Harnik's daughter Erica stopped
someone from committing suicide on the 91 Freeway. He said there are
simple ways to help when someone is reaching out. If you see someone
struggling and contemplating suicide, take responsibility, listen to their story,
tell them that you care, and encourage them to get treatment. He said a
simple and compassionate conversation can save peoples lives. He
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encouraged everyone to go to their website at afsp.orq to leam more about
suicide prevention and events held in Palm Desert.
Mayor Pro Tem Hamik stated that David Muth has taken a strong and active
role for all the people in need. She went on to say that when her daughter
Erica pulled this person off the bridge, all she kept repeating was that she
cared.
B. PRESENTATION TO THE CITY COUNCIL FROM THE PALM DESERT
AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY AND NEWS ABOUT THE UPCOMING
2016 RELAY FOR LIFE EVENT.
Ms. Janine Judy noted she is an employee of the City and a passionate
fundraising volunteer for the American Cancer Society. She thanked the
Council and City employees for their generous fundraising efforts for the
Relay for Life. She introduced Janice Freeman and Jennifer Heggie from
the local American Cancer Society office.
Ms. Janice Freeman presented the City Council with the 2015 Platinum
Sponsor Award. The City of Palm Desert employees, since 2012, have
raised more than $11,000 for the American Cancer Society. The Relay for
Life Event is held every year on the first weekend of October in Palm Desert.
The event celebrates cancer survivors and remembers those who have lost
the battle. This year the event is scheduled for Saturday, October 1, 2016,
from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park; the theme
this year is Dr. Seuss.
Ms. Heggie said the American Cancer Society has programs and services
locally; however, many people don't know they have an office in Palm Desert
on Fred Waring Drive. She said if anyone has a friend or family member
who gets diagnosed with cancer, they are available 24/7 by calling
1-800-227-2345. She noted they offer free transportation to and from cancer
treatments, and they also have a free wig bank at Lucy Curci Cancer Center
at Eisenhower Medical Center for free. She thanked the Council for their
support and looked forward to seeing them at the upcoming Relay for Life
Event.
C. PRESENTATION TO RECOGNIZE THE PALM DESERT EXPLORER
POST 507 GRADUATES FROM THE 19' ANNUAL LAW ENFORCEMENT
ACADEMY.
Sgt. Dave Smith announced that the Explorer Post 507 from the Palm Desert
Sheriffs Station proudly represented the Palm Desert Station while attending
the 19' Annual Law Enforcement Academy. The law enforcement explorers
participated in various trainings such as: marching maneuvers, defensive
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tactics, scenarios encountered by law enforcement, cross -fit training, force
options, and fire arms training. While at the Riverside County Sheriffs Ben
Clark Training Center, training was provided by well trained and
knowledgeable Explorer Advisors from various law enforcement agencies.
Explorers mature and take with them tools needed to become successful
adults and are encouraged to pursue their dreams. They also learn how to
become role models and leaders within their communities.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Pro Tem Hamik presented
Certificates of Recognition to Graduates Tristin Compton, Kevin Ndungu,
and Dustin Simpson. She also presented Certificates to the following
Explorer Advisors: Sgt. Dave Smith, Deputy J. Bugarin, Crystal Freedman,
and Deputy Ryan Adams, who was unable to attend.
Sgt. Dave Smith thanked the Council for the support given to the Palm
Desert Explorer Program. He said the Program helps kids between the ages
of 14 and 21 years old to get out in the community to assist with City events
and learn about law enforcement and becoming role models.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meetings of July 28 and August 11,
2016, and the Special Meeting of July 29, 2016.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrants
Dated 7/15/2016 (2), 7/22/2016, 7/29/2016, 7/31/2016, 8/5/2016, and
8/10/2016.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY/HOUSING TREASURIES -
Warrants Dated 7/22/2016, 7/29/2016, 8/5/2016, and 8/12/2016 (Joint
Consideration with the Palm Desert Housing Authority).
Rec: Approve as presented.
D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Bucatini,
36901 Cook Street, Suite 10, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
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E. RESOLUTION NO. 2016 - 73 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City
of Palm Desert, Califomia, Setting Forth Its Findings and Authorizing the
Destruction of Paper Records that Have Been Digitally Imaged from the
Office of the City Clerk, to Rely on the Electronic Record as the Official
Record - Various Record Center Documents as Specified in Section 3
(Exhibit "A").
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
F. RESOLUTION NO. 2016 - 74 - A Resolution of the City Council of the City
of Palm Desert, California, Setting Forth Its Findings and Authorizing the
Destruction of Records from the Department of Community
Development/Planning, as Indicated on the Records Retention Schedule
(Adopted May 14, 2015) - Records from 1985 - 2009 (Exhibit "A").
Rec: Waive further reading and adopt.
G. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Security on file for Tract
No. 36816 (Absolute Partners, Applicant).
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
H. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Performance Security
Agreement for Demolition Projects (Bighorn Golf Club, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize City Clerk to release the Performance
Security Agreement for Bighorn Golf Club.
I. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Security on file for the
Highway 111/Town Center Project (Harsch Investment Properties,
Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize City Clerk to release the security on file
for the Highway 111/Town Center Project.
J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Fourth Amendment to the SunLine Joint
Powers Transportation Agency Agreement (Contract No. C00515).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve Fourth Amendment to the SunLine Joint
Powers Transportation Agency Agreement and authorize Mayor to
execute same.
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K. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION of First Amendment to Contract with H&L
Partners in the Amount of $49,000 for the Development and Implementation
of a Public Relations Program (Contract No. C34641).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve First Amendment to the subject
Marketing Services Contract with H&L Partners, St. Louis, Missouri,
in the amount of $49,000 for the development and implementation of
a public relations program; 2) authorize Mayor to execute the First
Amendment - funds are available in the approved FY 2016-2017
Budget in Account No. 1104417-4309000, Professional Other.
L. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION of First Amendment to Contract with
Hurdzan Golf in an Amount Not to Exceed $5,000 to Provide Additional
Construction Administration Services for the Desert Willow Firecliff Bunker
Renovation Project (Contract No. C34940A).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Authorize First Amendment to the subject
contract with Hurdzan Golf, Columbus, Ohio, in an amount not to
exceed $5,000 to provide additional construction administration
services for the Desert Willow Golf Firecliff Bunker Renovation
Project; 2) appropriate $5,000 from Desert Willow Capital
Improvement Fund 441 to Account No. 4414195-4809200.
M. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Susan Smith Evans' Proposal for a Design
for the Set of Two (2) Traffic Signal Cabinets on the Southwest Corner of
Magnesia Falls Drive and Portola Avenue (Contract No. C35100).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the proposal by Susan Smith Evans to be
applied in vinyl to the set of two (2) traffic signal cabinets on the
southeast comer of Magnesia Falls Drive and Portola Avenue - funds
are available in the FY 2016-2017 budget, with no impact on the
General Fund.
N. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Contract with Same Day Express in the
Amount of $4,680 for Deinstallation of the 2015-2016 El Paseo Exhibition
and Installation of the 2017-2018 El Paseo Exhibition (Contract No. C35620).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve the subject contract with Same Day
Express, Palm Desert, California, in the amount of $4,680 for
Deinstallation of the 2015-2016 El Paseo Exhibition and Installation
of the 2017-2018 El Paseo Exhibition; 2) authorize Mayor to execute
said contract - funds are available in Account No. 4364650-4400200.
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O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL to Refund Plan Check Fees for Receipt Nos.
16-69621 and 16-69622 (Ray Herrera/Ecowize, Inc., Applicant).
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
P. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL for Funding the Temporary Traffic Control for
the Palm Desert Farmers Market Events Located at 72559 Highway 111 in
an Amount Not to Exceed $15,000 for the 2016-2017 Season.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the request for funding of the water
barricade and traffic signs in conjunction with the Wednesday
morning Palm Desert Farmers Market Events located at 72559
Highway 111 in an amount not to exceed $15,000 for the 2016-2017
Season - funds are available in Marketing Account
No. 1104417-4322200 (Special Events).
Q. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the Y-Be-Fit Palm Desert Challenge Event
Date, Traffic Control Plan, Temporary Waiver of Amplified Sound, and
Sponsorship Expenditure.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve the 2016 Y-Be-Fit Palm Desert
Challenge Event scheduled for Sunday, October 2, 2016; 2) approve
the proposed event route and road closures; 3) approve temporary
waiver to Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 11.01.140
(Amplified Sound); 4) authorize expenditure of sponsorship funds in
an amount not to exceed $25,000 from Account No. 1104416-
4306201.
Mayor Pro Tem Hamik requested Item G be removed for separate
consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held Over, and
Councilman Jonathan asked that Item 0 also be removed for
separate consideration.
Upon a motion by Tanner, second by Weber, and 5-0 vote of the City Council
(AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel ; NOES: None), the remainder of
the Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
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XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
G. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Security on file for Tract
No. 36816 (Absolute Partners, Applicant).
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik recused herself and left the Council Chamber.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize City Clerk to release the
security on file for Tract No. 36816. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 4-0
vote (AYES: Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel: NOES: None; ABSENT: Harnik).
O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL to Refund Plan Check Fees for Receipt Nos.
16-69621 and 16-69622 (Ray Herrera/Ecowize, Inc., Applicant).
Councilman Jonathan recused himself and left the Council Chamber.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the refund of $9,075.81
to Ecowize, Inc., for Building and Fire Plan Check Fees that were calculated in error. The
correct plan review fees will be collected upon permit issuance. Motion was seconded by
Harnik and carried by a 4-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel: NOES:
None; ABSENT: Jonathan).
XII. RESOLUTIONS
None
XIII. ORDINANCES
A. For Introduction:
None
B. For Adoption:
None
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XIV. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE 2017 PALM DESERT HEALTH +
WELLNESS DAY EVENT AT CIVIC CENTER PARK AND RELATED
TEMPORARY WAIVERS OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE (Seth Cash/My City
Everyday, Applicant).
Management Analyst Kimberly Warpinski was excited to introduce this new
event, which is referred to as the "Live Well - Palm Desert," and is to take
place at the Civic Center Park in January when resolutions are high. It's a
chance to bring together local businesses and community members to
promote health and wellness and jump start those resolutions. She noted
the Applicant was available to answer questions.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, approve: 1) The 2017 Palm Desert
Health + Wellness Day at Civic Center Park scheduled for Saturday, January 7,2017, from
10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.; 2) temporary waiver to Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC)
Section 11.01.080.0 (Erection of Advertising Signage in Parks); 3) temporary waiver to
Palm Desert Municipal Code (PDMC) Section 11.01.080 (Prohibited Conduct Generally in
City Parks, Item Q - Vendor Sales). Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0
vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
B. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE GREENS FERTILIZER
PRODUCTS FROM SOUTHWEST TURF SUPPORT, LLC, IN AN AMOUNT
NOT TO EXCEED $115,000 FOR DESERT WILLOW GOLF RESORT -
FISCAL YEAR 2016-2017 (CONTRACT NO. C35410).
Mr. Alvarez stated the Desert Willow greens is one of the most important
assets when preserving the quality of experience and the conditions of the
putting surfaces. Therefore, this request is for the purchase of fertilizer,
specifically from Southwest Turf Support who is the lone provider in
Riverside County for Floratine products, which are necessary for these
greens. Last year staff made the same request as a sole source in an
amount not to exceed $115,000. The amount of fertilizer will be applied as
needed with the direction of the superintendent. This year staff reviewed
comparable fertilizers in the market and concluded they are within industry
standards, and this contract will reflect that cost. Responding to question,
he confirmed the amount of this contract was the same as last year.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize: 1) Desert Willow Golf Resort
to purchase Greens Fertilizer Products from Southwest Turf Support, LLC, Phoenix, Arizona,
FY 2016-2017, in an amount not to exceed $115,000; 2) Mayor to execute said contract - funds
are available in the FY 2016-2017 Desert Willow Operating Budget, Course and Grounds
Expenses Account No. 5204195-4803100. Motion was seconded by Jonathan and carried by
a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
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C. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR LAND SURVEYING,
MAPPING, AND UTILITY RESEARCH SERVICES FOR THE SAN PABLO
AVENUE STREET IMPROVEMENT PROJECT TO MSA CONSULTING,
INC., IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $72,821 (CONTRACT
NO. C35520A, PROJECT NO. 691-16).
Mr. Greenwood stated this contract is to further the Vision San Pablo Project
to renovate San Pablo. He pointed out that staff was recommending a local
consultant. Also, he requested adding recommendation No. 3 to appropriate
$1,000 to cover miscellaneous expenses for the advertising of this contract.
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik moved to, by Minute Motion, approve as amended: 1) Award
Contract No. C35520A for land surveying, mapping, and utility research services for the San
Pablo Avenue Street Improvement Project to MSA Consulting, Inc., Rancho Mirage, California,
in an amount not to exceed $72,821; 2) appropriate $72,821 from unobligated General Fund
monies to Account No. 4004430-5000101; 3) appropriate $1,000 to cover miscellaneous
expenses (advertising); 4) authorize Mayor to execute said contract. Motion was seconded by
Tanner and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel;
NOES: None).
D. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT TO GLYN DONALD GRAY dba
GDG, IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $90,000 FOR OPERATION OF
THE EL PASEO COURTESY CART SERVICE (CONTRACT NO. C35630).
Economic Development Manager Ruth Ann Moore stated that per the
Ordinance, the contract went out to bid. A Request for Proposals was
advertised, and the City received one bid, which was from the current
operator GDG. She noted there was no increase to the hourly rate;
therefore, staff recommended approval of the contract.
Councilman Jonathan noted he had approached Ms. Moore about an
alternative and similar ride service called "FRED," which is used in several
cities throughout the Country. It tumed out that Ms. Moore had already
looked into it.
Ms. Moore added she will investigate further and submit some information
for Council's consideration.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Award subject contract for the
operation of the El Paseo Courtesy Cart Service to Glyn Donald Gray dba GDG, Palm Desert,
in an amount not to exceed $90,000 ($87,500 for scheduled and special event hours and
$2,500 for vehicle maintenance and repairs), commencing October 29, 2016, through May 14,
2017; 2) authorize the reimbursement of $5,000 from El Paseo Business Improvement District
Account No. 1104491-4321500 to Courtesy Cart Account No. 1104416-4368100 as contribution
toward operations; 3) authorize Mayor to execute said contract. Motion was seconded by
Harnik.
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Responding to question on the name of the company, Councilman Jonathan
said it was "FRED Ride Service San Diego," and if you Google it, you will
also learn about the parent company that operates the service.
Mayor Spiegel asked if they used golf carts.
Councilman Jonathan replied the shuttles are larger and it's a free service.
Mayor Spiegel commented that Palm Desert used to have that through
SunLine, but the company went under.
Ms. Moore said the website is called "The Free Ride.com." She went on to
say it was an advertising vehicle, so that was something Council would have
to consider. However, this company operates in very large tourist areas such
as Ft. Lauderdale and Santa Monica, stating they just got an award for a
contract in San Diego. She is having discussions with them, but she wasn't
sure Palm Desert was large enough for them.
Mayor Spiegel called for the vote and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES:
Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF DOWN PAYMENT ASSISTANCE LOANS
FROM ANY AVAILABLE FUNDING SOURCE RESTRICTED FOR THIS
PURPOSE IN AN AMOUNT NECESSARY TO SECURE AN AFFORDABLE
HOUSING COST ASSOCIATED WITH A DIRECT SALE IN DESERT ROSE
- 75-436 WILDFLOWER LANE (APN 634-061-009) (JOINT
CONSIDERATION WITH THE PALM DESERT HOUSING AUTHORITY).
Senior Management Analyst Veronica Tapia said this transaction was a
direct sale between an independent seller and buyer. The Housing Authority
was merely offering home buyer assistance to facilitate the transaction and
maintain the affordability covenant.
Councilman/Member Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve a silent
down payment assistance loan associated with a direct sale in Desert Rose, not to exceed
40% of a sales price of $132,390 to ensure an affordable housing cost pursuant to
Califomia Health & Safety Code Section 50052.5 for a qualified low- or moderate -income
household from any available funding source restricted for such purpose (Low and
Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund, BEGIN Fund and Housing Mitigation); 2) Authorize
the payment of the transaction costs if necessary for the purpose of repairs required for
closing, fees customary to real estate transactions in Riverside County including escrow,
title, FHA fees, inspections, vermin eradication, commissions and disclosures up to a
maximum of $3,500; 3) authorize use of the Desert Rose Sales Program and documents,
including the restrictive covenant and loan documents for the applicable funding source,
and authorize the Mayor to execute; 4) authorize Director of Finance to draw monies from
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the relative funds to facilitate the transaction; 5) authorize Authority Chairman and/or the
Authority's Executive Director, or his designee, to finalize and execute any ancillary
documents necessary to effectuate the actions taken herewith - monies are available in
the appropriate account in the Low and Moderate Income Housing Asset Fund, BEGIN
Fund and Housing Mitigation Fund. Motion was seconded by Tanner and carried by a 5-0
vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
XV. CONTINUED BUSINESS
None
XVI. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO CONTRACT
NO. C34940 WITH EARTH SCULPTURES IN THE AMOUNT OF
$151,268.33 FOR ADDITIONAL SCOPE OF WORK FOR THE FIRECLIFF
GOLF COURSE BUNKER RENOVATION PROJECT AT DESERT WILLOW
GOLF RESORT.
Mr. Alvarez stated that the proposed change order will address additional
scope of work that was not included in the specifications and is outlined in
the staff report. The additional scope of work includes: 1) Additional site
demo; 2) additional fill material throughout the course; 3) added shaping and
grading of the surfaces to apply the sod; 4) additional installation of sod. He
recalled for the Council that in May staff showed them the plans where
bunkers would be eliminated. Through the construction and direction of the
architect, staff found there were significant grade differences, angulations,
and elevation changes throughout the course, which makes the course very
unique. He added that Desert Willow is a very dramatic and unique course,
which places the course at the high -caliber level. When going through the
construction process, the architect came on the site several times and
provided direction on those disturbed areas to properly contour and fill in the
bunkers to avoid leaving humps that would affect the experience and play.
There was a significant amount of earth work that needed to be applied to
the majority of the bunker. He displayed photographs of the areas that
needed to be properly graded and expanded. The slide presentation
illustrated the disturbed bunker areas prior to them being finished. He said
the finish product was to appear as if the bunkers never existed previously,
which was the goal of the architect. The additional work was significant and
more than anticipated in the original scope and specifications. Staff worked
with the contractor who has been doing a great job to completely put the
bunkers back together. In conclusion, staff requested the contingency of
$63,200 be transferred to the contract base and appropriate an additional
$88,068.33 from Fund 441 in order to complete the project.
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Councilman Jonathan questioned if the required work should have been
foreseen and anticipated in the original design, instead of incurring the
added cost now.
Mr. Alvarez replied there are two frames of thoughts or processes that could
be taken. One is taking the approach of creating a fully engineered design
where you have a tight set of plans that one can specify at a cost of $60,000
to $70,000. However, these golf courses are very fluid. When you have the
golf course architect on site looking at tee boxes from fairways and from
greens, attempting to preserve the intent of the original design, there will be
field adjustments even if you had a set of grading plans. He added there are
give and take when you have engineered plans or field adjustments.
However, in this case, staff did not anticipate the severe movement of dirt
that is necessary to fill in the bunkers out at Desert Willow.
Councilman Jonathan commented that by using the field adjustment
approach, staff is indicating that the added cost would have been incurred
otherwise anyway by employing that original $60,000 for a specific design.
Mr. Alvarez answered yes, potentially.
Mr. McCarthy noted that Councilman Jonathan's point was well taken, stating
there was a lot of discussion about how to approach this. He believed the
City saved some money that it would have had to spend anyway on the
design to tighten things up. Going forward, the best thing to do, if it's going
to use a similar approach, is to have a heavier contingency. This way, at
least the Council has an anticipation that there will be some variances that
are just not anticipated.
MR. THEISEN DOWNING, Earth Sculptures, Inc., stated he was just making
himself available to answer questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve subject change
order with Earth Sculptures in the amount of $151,268.33 for additional scope of work
required to complete the Firecliff Golf Course Bunker Renovation Project at Desert Willow
Golf Resort; 2) authorize Director of Finance to transfer the 10% contingency ($63,200) to
contract base; 3) appropriate an additional $88,068.33 from Fund 441 to Account No.
4414195-4809200; 4) Mayor to execute said change order. Motion was seconded by
Tanner and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel;
NOES: None).
XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
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MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 2016
XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Interim City Manager's Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of
July 18-August 12, 2016.
With City Council concurrence, the Interim City Manager Meeting Summaries were
received and filed.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
1. Rent Review Commission
Mr. Hargreaves recalled for the Council that a few months ago there
was an item on the Rent Review Commission where staff tried to
reconfigure it to make it more manageable. He and staff have had
several meetings with the residents, including one a couple of weeks
ago, and there seems to be a consensus to take the Commission
from five members down to three members. The residents felt they
really need the Commission as a buffer in the process. He said if the
membership is taken down to three members, the City would be in a
situation where it more likely is able to recruit people and manage
that going forward. He said staff will bring this item to the Council at
the second meeting of September. Also, this same group will look at
long-term changes in the Rent Control Ordinance, which has not been
modified in 30 years and it needs to be updated.
2. Ordinance Updates
Mr. Hargreaves reported there are different ordinance updates
working their way up through the system within all the Departments,
which will come before the City Council for consideration within the
next six months.
C. CITY CLERK
None
D. PUBLIC SAFETY
1. Fire Department
None
15
MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 2016
2. Police Department
Councilman Jonathan asked about the "Coffee with the Cop Event,"
stating that unfortunately the Council had to miss it because it was
conducting interviews for the City Manager position.
Lt. Baur responded it was a success. The event was mainly directed
at the merchants on El Paseo, which is a little different from what they
have done in the past. He said they didn't advertise in the paper or
media; they only passed out flyers. However, the turnout was good,
and they plan to do different variations to increase their outreach.
The next event is scheduled for October.
Councilman Jonathan thanked the Department for connecting with the
community.
Councilman Tanner said he didn't know if Ms. Ruth Ann Moore had
related to him that one of the suggestions that came out of this
moming's meeting is to have the event between 12:00 noon and
2:00 p.m., and at a location where everybody really wants to drink
coffee.
Lt. Baur said that was a good point, but he had to work with the
provider. Further responding, he said they held an event for the
community in August and he plans to hold them monthly.
E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
1. Councilmember Susan Marie Weber's Meeting Summaries Report for
the period of July 18 - August 12, 2016.
With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries were received and filed.
2. Council Requests for Action/Committee Reports/Comments:
a) Councilman Sabbv Jonathan Reports/Comments:
- CVAG Homeslessness Committee - He reported that Part 2 of the
workshop took place. He thanked Lt. Baur, Sgt. Zamora, City of Palm
Desert Director of Special Programs Frankie Riddle, and
Lauri Baldwin from the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce. He said
they finished the planning portion and decided on several major
priorities for the coming year, some of which, will impact the City of
Palm Desert.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING AUGUST 25, 2016
- Captain Sue Trevino Retirement Party - He and Mayor Pro Tem
Harnik attended the party, stating it was a lot of fun and there was
camaraderie with the men and women in blue. He appreciated the
invitation and opportunity to be there and looked forward to working
with Captain Teets.
b) Mayor Pro Tem Jan C. Harnik Reports/Comments:
- Desert Valley Builders Association -Public Works Luncheon - She
and Councilmember Weber attended the function. She said the City's
Capital Improvement Project Technician Cora Gaugush provided a
presentation and did an outstanding job, adding she teamed a few
new things about Palm Desert.
- Wellness Challenge Kick-off Event - She and Director of Human
Resources Lori Carney attended the kick-off event. The event
included representatives from cities, organizations, the chambers, and
other entities. In the near future, staff will be rolling out plans for
everyone to participate, and it's a competition that Palm Desert should
win.
Lastly, she announced that Councilman Tanner has a new grandson.
3. Council Consideration of Travel Requests and Reports:
None
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Spiegel adjoumed the meeting at 4:47 p.m.
ATTEST:
Ag-e& /. /
GRAG't L. MENDOZA, ACTING CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
ROBERT A. SPI EL, • YOR
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