HomeMy WebLinkAbout2016-10-13MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13, 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 3:00 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Mayor Pro Tem Jan C. Hamik
Councilman Sabby Jonathan
Councilman Van G. Tanner
Councilmember Susan Marie Weber
Mayor Robert A. Spiegel
Also Present:
Lauri Aylaian, City Manager
Robert W. Hargreaves, City Attorney
William L. Strausz, Successor Agency Counsel
Rudy P. Acosta, Assistant City Manager
Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk
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
Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works
Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs
Stephen Y. Aryan, Risk Manager
John Cortez, Battalion Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire Dept./Cal Fire
Anthony Baur, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Department
Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
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IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Request for Closed Session:
A. Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Govemment Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: 1 acre Located on Country Club Drive (APN 620-430-024)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Rudy P. Acosta/Martin Alvarez/
City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
2) Property: 0.67 acres Located on Dinah Shore Drive
(APN 694-060-010)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Lauri Aylaian/Rudy P. Acosta/Martin Alvarez/
City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Coachella Valley Water District
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
B. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding potential to initiate litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4):
Number of potential cases: 1
Mayor Spiegel requested adding an item to the agenda by four -fifths vote under
Section V - Awards, Presentations, and Appointments, for Council to consider
contributing $10,000 to the Palm Springs Police Officer's Association to go toward
the fallen officer's families.
On a motion by Hamik, second by Tanner, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES:
Hamik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None), the aforementioned item
was added to the agenda.
Mr. Hargreaves asked the City Council to consider adding an item to the Closed
Session agenda by four -fifths vote, as follows:
C. Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
1) City of Palm Desert v. Kenneth Doran, Riverside County Superior Court,
Case No. PSC 1605075
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On a motion by Tanner, second by Spiegel, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES:
Hamik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None), the aforementioned existing
litigation Item C was added to the agenda.
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Spiegel adjourned the meeting to Closed
Session of the City Council at 3:04 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.
None
VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF
THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Palm Desert Charter Middle School
ASB Member Isabella Mazet
VII. INVOCATION - Mayor Robert A. Spiegel
VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
MR. ROB BALLEW, Executive Director, Family YMCA of the Desert, Palm Desert,
thanked the City Council for their sponsorship of the Y-Be-Fit Palm Desert
Challenge for the third time. He originally had a great two -minute video that was
going to be shown, but it didn't work out. However, he will be back to show it,
because the entire event was filmed with a drone and it's spectacular. In three
years, this event has doubled, and this past Sunday,1,551 people came out to enjoy
fitness and wellness in the Triathlon, the 5K Run, and Color Run. He said families
came out to participate in one of the three events, and many came with their
children in baby carriages and some people with walkers that are 90 years of age;
it was an amazing family day. He noted 40 to 48 City staff participated in the events.
In fact, City Manager Lauri Aylaian won in her category, Councilman Jonathan
came in third place, and Director of Community Development Ryan Stendell did
quite well. He left Y-Be-Fit T-shirts with the City Clerk to distribute to the City
Council for their use. He added that having this event double in three years was
exactly what they were hoping for, and seeing smiles in everyone's faces was
wonderful as well. Also, 49 marines and their families came to the event, adding
they had a sponsor that paid for their transportation, lunches, and entries, and 16
additional marines joined the kids activities. He pointed out that City Attorney Bob
Hargreaves was one of 98 volunteers helping to make this event happen. Of the two
main events, the 5K and Triathlon, there were 520 participants, and 140 of them
were from out of the Valley. He again thanked the City Council for their sponsorship
of this event.
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Councilman Jonathan commented that the marines that showed up were from the
7th Regiment, which is the regiment that the City of Palm Desert adopted. He said
it was great to see them out at the event.
MR. TERRY COLLIER, Ajo Lane, Palm Desert, addressed City Councilmembers
today to speak on something that affects the City of Palm Desert and all
municipalities across the country. In November 2008, he was one individual who
was invited to have Thanksgiving dinner with the President of the United States
where he sat six or seven feet away from him, and his late wife sat next to the
President. Their conversation revolved around the following three issues: 1) What
really causes submarine pressure to go down in the late sixties; 2) the horrific battle
that took place in Vietnam, where hundreds of lives were lost and only a few
survived, and millions of dollars worth of equipment was lost, which the public never
found out about; 3) what took place out in the Mojave Desert in 1971. He said
these three issues dominated most of the afternoon's conversation, and when he
was done with his dissertation of what took place, he said it was due to his Christian
faith that he had survived these experiences. His sister-in-law, at that time, told him
not to mention the word Jesus, because the President was Muslim. At the time, he
wondered how that was going to work, and seven years and ten months later, he
has learned his lesson on how that worked out. Therefore, when people say they
are going to transform American, people need to wake up and ask what they mean.
Management Analyst Deborah Glickman introduced Erin Sasse who is with the
League of California Cities as the Regional Public Affairs Manager for Riverside
County who is presenting the City Council with the Helen Putnam Award of
Excellence.
Ms. Sasse provided a video about the Helen Putnam Award of Excellence, which
was established in 1982 in honor of the League of Califomia Cities first female
president, Helen Putnam. She said the Award for Excellence recognizes
achievement among Califomia cities, and only 12 awards out of 482 cities are given
out each year. The award is incredibly prestigious, and she knew that all the other
cities that apply and don't win are always jealous of the winners. It was also an
honor that one of the cities within Riverside County was a winner this year. The
Award of Excellence was presented at the League's Annual Conference last week
in Long Beach, and Palm Desert received the award for Economic Development
through the Arts Category. This award was designed to recognize successful
programs that illustrate how investment in the arts has stimulated the local economy
through tourism, festivals, cultural attractions, and performing arts or have
innovative art programs that were established through a collaborative partnership.
She said Palm Desert had 35 different organizations it worked with for its events.
The award also recognizes city policies or ordinances that integrate the arts and
culture into their General Plan, Specific Plans, or other City Council adopted
policies, and she understood this was within the City's Strategic Plan. She
presented the Council with an official Certificate, stating the official plaque is
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coming. She congratulated the Council for a well -deserved award, and she looked
forward to attending some of the City's events.
Ms. Aylaian stated Ms. Glickman was the originator of the idea of the "First
Weekend Palm Desert" and worked staff members in the Art In Public Places,
Marketing, and Public Works Departments' to make it happen. She added that
everyone played a part in it, but it was Ms. Glickman's idea.
Mayor Spiegel said Palm Desert was very lucky to have her working for the City.
IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING THURSDAY,
OCTOBER 13, 2016, AS "JEREMIAH ESTRADA DAY" IN THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Pro Tem Harnik presented the
proclamation to Jeremiah Estrada and congratulated him for all his
achievements and commitment to play for UCLA after he graduates. She
also recognized Baseball Coach Darol Salazar who has coached at Palm
Desert High School for 31 years.
Mr. Estrada gave credit to his Christian faith for all the blessings bestowed
upon him, and the power to believe in himself. He thanked his family, coach,
teammates, and the City Council for this recognition, stating it was very
humbling.
B. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 15-21,
2016, AS "BINATIONAL HEALTH WEEK" IN THE CITY OF PALM DESERT.
Representatives from the Central City Community Health Center were unable
to be present for today's recognition. The proclamation will be delivered to
them.
C. PRESENTATION OF PROCLAMATION DECLARING OCTOBER 13, 2016,
AS A DAY OF REMEMBRANCE OF OFFICERS JOSE GIL VEGA AND
LESLEY ZEREBNY.
On behalf of the entire City Council, Mayor Pro Tem Hamik presented the
proclamation to Captain Walter Combs, representing the Palm Springs
Police Department.
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C1. CONTRIBUTION OF $10,000 TO THE PALM SPRINGS POLICE
OFFICER'S ASSOCIATION TO BE DISTRIBUTED TO THE FAMILIES OF
THE FALLEN OFFICERS JOSE GIL VEGA AND LESLEY ZEREBNY.
Mayor Spiegel pointed out that earlier this evening, the City Council added
this item to the agenda.
Councilman Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the contribution of
$10,000 to the Palm Springs Police Officer's Association to be distributed to the families
of the fallen officers Jose Gil Vega and Lesley Zerebny. Motion was seconded by Tanner
and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES:
None).
On behalf of the men and women of the Palm Springs Police Department,
Capt. Combs stated they very much appreciated the proclamation. He said
the families of Officers Gil Vega and Lesley Zerebny and the Department are
overwhelmed with the outpouring support they have received from everyone
throughout the Coachella Valley.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of September 22, 2016.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrants
Dated 9/9/2016, 9/16/2016, and 9/26/2016.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY/HOUSING TREASURIES -
Warrants Dated 9/16/2016, 9/23/2016, and 9/30/2016 (Joint Consideration
with the Palm Desert Housing Authority).
Rec: Approve as presented.
D. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
1. Cultural Resources Preservation Committee Meeting of February 23,
2016.
2. Library Promotion Committee Meeting of March 2, 2016.
3. Marketing Committee Meeting of June 21, 2016.
4. Public Safety Commission Meeting of April 13, 2016.
Rec: Receive and file.
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E. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Jane Turner - Housing Commission.
Rec: Receive with very sincere regret.
F. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Honorariums to Three College of the Desert
Students for Design of The Charger Turf Removal and Landscaping Project
in the Total Amount of $2,000 (Project No. 960-17).
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve honorariums to three College of the
Desert students for design of The Charger Turf Removal and
Landscaping Project in the total amount of $2,000 — funds are
available in Account No. 4004650-4391503 - Art In Public Places Turf
Retrofit.
G. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Reject Bid Received for the Catalina
Community Garden Renovation Project and to Re -bid Same (Contract
No. C35610, Project No. 997-17).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Reject bid received for the Catalina Community
Garden Renovation Project; 2) authorize City staff to re -advertise
project.
H. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. C34870-2016
Citywide Striping Program (Project No. 564-16) (Cal -Stripe, Inc., Colton, CA).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the
City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
I. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. C35460 -
Washington Charter School Playground Resurfacing (Project No. 705-17)
(Robertson Industries, Inc., Tempe, AZ).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the
City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of an Exception to Palm Desert Municipal Code
Section 9.58.010 - Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages on Public Property - for a
VIP Open House at The Joslyn Center Located at 73750 Catalina Way on Tuesday,
November 1, 2016.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve an exception to P.D.M.C.
Section 9.58.010 - Consumption of Alcoholic Beverages on Public
Property - for a VIP Open House on November 1, 2016, at The Joslyn
Center, 73750 Catalina Way; 2) authorize City Manager to sign the
Daily License Application from the California Department of Alcoholic
Beverage Control for this event.
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K. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Martha's Village & Kitchen's 2017 Bunny
Hop 5K Run/Walk on Sunday, April 9 (Martha's Village & Kitchen, Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, as it relates to the subject event, approve:
1) Martha's Village & Kitchen's Bunny Hop 5K Run/Walk on Sunday,
April 9, 2017; 2) road closures on El Paseo between Highway 74 and
Portola Avenue; 3) consumption of alcoholic beverages on City -
owned Property pursuant to Palm Desert Municipal Code
Section 9.58.040.
On a motion by Tanner, second by Weber, and 5-0 vote of the City Council (AYES:
Hamik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None), the Consent Calendar was
approved as presented.
XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
None
XII. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 2016 - 78 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
RESOLUTION NO. 2016-62 - SALARY RESOLUTION - SECTION II,
EXEMPT EMPLOYEE GROUPS.
Ms. Moore noted Ms. Carney was out of the office, so she would be
providing the staff report. She said this was a housekeeping item to amend
the salary resolution to identify employees with employment contracts.
Councilman Tanner moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 2016 - 78. Motion was seconded by Hamik and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik,
Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
B. RESOLUTION NO. 2016 - 79 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING ITS
RESOLUTION NO. 03-49, ESTABLISHING THE MARKETING
COMMITTEE - MEETINGS.
Tourism and Marketing Manager Thomas Soule noted the staff report and
offered to answer questions.
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 2016 - 79. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik,
Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
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C. RESOLUTION NO. 2016 - 80 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RESCINDING
RESOLUTION NOS. 2013-58 AND 09-77, AND ADOPTING A REVISED
TRAVEL EXPENSE REIMBURSEMENT POLICY FOR OFFICIAL CITY
BUSINESS BY ELECTED/APPOINTED OFFICIALS AND CITY
EMPLOYEES.
Mr. Aryan stated staff was not making any substantial changes to the Travel
Policy, but it was clarifying some sections as outlined in the staff report. He
noted a redlined version of the policy was within the report.
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 2016 - 80. Motion was seconded by Tanner and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik,
Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
XIII. ORDINANCES
A. For Introduction:
None
B. For Adoption:
1. ORDINANCE NO. 1305A-AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 9.50 - MOBILE HOME PARK RENT REVIEW,
SECTION 9.50.040 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE, TO
REDUCE THE NUMBER OF MEMBERS OF THE RENT REVIEW
BOARD FROM FIVE TO THREE.
Mayor Pro Tem Hamik moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance
No. 1305A. Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Harnik,
Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
2. ORDINANCE NO. 1308 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, REVISING
SECTION 2.52.510 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE -
POLICY AGAINST HARASSMENT, DISCRIMINATION, AND
RETALIATION.
Councilman Jonathan said the staff report indicates that the
employer, City of Palm Desert, has a Zero Tolerance Policy for any
conduct that violates it. Also, the disciplinary action or other
appropriate sanction can include termination, which will be instituted
for prohibited behaviors as defined. While he certainly embraced the
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intent of this policy, he had exception with two provisions that, in his
mind, went too far Specifically, under Section C-5(d) and (e), which
appears on page 4 of the staff report. Paragraph (d) states, "Even
visual, verbal, or physical conduct between two employees who
appear to welcome the conduct can constitute harassment of a third
applicant, officer, official, employee, or contractor who observes the
conduct or learns about the conduct later. Conduct can constitute
harassment even if it is not explicitly or specifically directed at an
individual." Similarly, with paragraph (e) "Conduct can constitute
harassment in violation of this Policy even if the individual engaging
in the conduct has no intention to harass. Even well-intentioned
conduct can violate this Policy if the conduct is directed at, or
implicates a protected classification, and if an individual of the
recipient's same protected classification would find it offensive (e.g.
gifts, over attentions, endearing nicknames). Therefore, now staff has
to evaluate when two people are having a conversation at the coffee
station, somebody might find it offensive, that, in and of itself is
enough grounds for possible termination. He believed guidelines "d"
and "e" would create an atmosphere in the City of stepford
employees, where everybody has to watch every single word or
phrase, etc., and determine if the conversation is appropriate. He
wants City employees to feel comfortable, but of course be respectful
and mindful of everyone's rights.
Mayor Spiegel pointed out that this was the second reading of the
Ordinance, and it was approved at the first reading.
Councilman Jonathan said he didn't recall, and if he's late to the
party, better late than never. He reiterated that the two paragraphs
he outlined went too far.
Mr. Hargreaves explained that these provisions came out of Califomia
law and case laws, not things that City staff invented. However, this
kind of behavior can become actionable, and discipline in any
particular situation is going to be metered appropriately to the specific
circumstance, and typically if there is behavior that might be offensive,
it's called to the employee's attention. There could be training
involved, but there is a whole process to it. He added that in certain
circumstances, the law requires they be called out. It was a sensitivity
kind of an issue to train people to ensure employees are not engaging
in offensive conduct however innocently and not badly intended, but
that someone might find offensive. He said there is a process where
the conduct is called to the person's attention to have it stopped, and
if it persists, they can then be disciplined.
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Councilman Jonathan reiterated that the proposed policy states zero
tolerance for any offense as listed under paragraphs "d" and "e,"
which he took exception. It clearly states someone can be terminated
for saying something they didn't intend to offend and that isn't even
heard by a third party, but it can be construed as potentially violating.
He recognized he may be the only one voting against, even though he
fully embraces the intent and content of the rest of the policy.
Mayor Pro Tem Hamik said she understood the concern, however,
zero tolerance didn't necessarily mean termination. The policy does
go on to state, "... provide grounds for discipline or other appropriate
sanctions." Whether that meant training or a discussion with the
person to say someone was bothered by their action. She agreed the
policy seemed a little over the top, but she also understood some
people get offended.
Mayor Spiegel moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1308.
Motion was seconded by Weber and carried by a 4-1 vote (AYES: Harnik, Tanner, Weber,
and Spiegel; NOES: Jonathan).
XIV. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF PALM SPRINGS WOMEN IN FILM AND
TELEVISION'S 2017 OSCAR PARTY ON EL PASEO EVENT ON SUNDAY,
FEBRUARY 26 (The Jones Group, Applicant).
Management Analyst Amy Lawrence stated the Palm Springs Women in Film
and Television would like to hold an Oscar Party on El Paseo. It's a charity
dinner party that will be set up in the street in front of the shops on El Paseo.
As noted in the staff report, the El Paseo Business Improvement District
unanimously expressed their support for the event and recommended
approval for the road closures. She noted Event Producer Warren Jones
was available to answer questions.
Councilman Tanner said many people are looking forward to the event.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, approve/allow: 1) Palm Springs
Women in Film and Television's Oscar Party on El Paseo event scheduled for Sunday,
February 26, 2017; 2) two-phase road closure plan on El Paseo from Highway 74 to
Ocotillo Drive; 3) consumption of alcoholic beverages on City -owned property pursuant to
Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 9.58.040. 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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B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF 2017 PALM DESERT CHILL 'N GRILL
BARBEQUE EVENT ON SATURDAY, MARCH 4, AND SPONSORSHIP
(Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce, Applicant).
Management Analyst Amy Lawrence noted the staff report outlines the
request from Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce to hold a Kansas
City Barbeque Society (KCBS) sanctioned barbeque event at the Palm
Desert Civic Center Park on Saturday, March 4, 2017. The event is called
the Palm Desert Chill 'N Grill Barbeque and will be marketed as a featured
"First Weekend" event. This event will include live music, car show,
children's play area, and other attractions for the public to enjoy. The
Chamber is requesting a sponsorship in the amount of $35,000, plus in -kind
police services for this first year event. She added that the Palm Desert
Hotel and Signature Events Committee supports the sponsorship for this
event. She said a representative from the Chamber was available to answer
questions.
Councilman Tanner stated he believed this was exactly what the City was
moving toward, which is to develop more signature events. With regards to
the General Plan, this event fits the mold. Adding that the barbecue event
held in Indio last year sold out and people had a difficult time finding parking.
The Palm Desert committee working on this event has answers for all those
questions and issues. In fact, Michael Hardin from The Lock Shop is
probably the best barbecuer.
Councilman Tanner moved to, by Minute Motion, approve: 1) Palm Desert Chill 'N
Grill Barbeque Event at the Palm Desert Civic Center Park on Saturday, March 4, 2017;
2) temporary waiver of Palm Desert Municipal Code (P.D.M.C.) Section 11.01.020 - Hours
of Use in City Parks; 3) temporary waiver of P.D.M.C. Section 11.01.080(P) - Prohibited
Conduct Generally in City Parks - Limit Use of Park Amenity; 4) temporary waiver of
P.D.M.C. Section 11.01.080(Q) - Prohibited Conduct Generally in City Parks - Vendor
Sales; 5) temporary waiver of P.D.M.C. Section 11.01.080(W) - Prohibited Conduct
Generally in City Parks - Possession/Consumption of Alcohol in City Parks pursuant to
P.D.M.C. Section 9.58.040; 6) temporary waiver of P.D.M.C. Section 11.01.100 -
Obstructing Pathways in City Parks; 7) temporary waiver of P.D.M.C. Section 11.01.140 -
Amplified Sound in City Parks. Motion was seconded by Hamik; 8) sponsorship in the
amount of $35,000 payable to the Palm Desert Area Chamber of Commerce from Account
No. 1104416-4306201 - City -Sponsored Events (Contract No. C35790, subject to City
Attorney review); 9) sponsorship of in -kind Police Services; 10) appropriation of $35,000
from Unobligated General Fund monies to Account No. 1104416-4306201 - City -
Sponsored Events. Motion was seconded by Harnik.
Mayor Pro Tem Hamik said she understood how the event will be marketed,
but the staff report indicates it will be sanctioned by the Kansas City
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Barbeque Society. She asked if the City will be able to use that in its
publicity, because that was a big deal.
MS. LAURIE BALDWIN, President/CEO of the Palm Desert Area Chamber
of Commerce, sitting in the audience indicated it can.
Mayor Pro Tem Harnik shared she is always apprehensive when the City
invests a lot of money for first-time events. Therefore, she wants a lot of skin
in the game and not just the City's $35,000 contribution. She felt the event
had to prove itself, because it was a lot of money for a first time event and
it's not in an ideal time on the calendar. She hopes next year the event can
be moved to a better time.
Councilman Jonathan understood, stating he shared the same concern, but
the City was taking a leap of faith. He loved everything he was hearing about
special events and making them successful, and the best one's start from
outside the Council; this one is coming from the community and the City is
being asked to support it. He also liked that it was different and something
that's currently not in Palm Desert. He believed there was a minor payback
possibility if the event is financially successful, so maybe that $35,000 will be
less. He said staff will be monitoring the event, and although there was a
conflict with the date with the Mountains Conservancy, hopefully the City will
make lemonade out of that lemon and make it work. However, he did have
a technical question, stating he understood the event area will be completely
fenced in so that alcohol can be served, but the staff report indicates children
will be allowed.
Mayor Spiegel responded that wrist bans will be issued to those that prove
they are over 21 years of age in order to buy beer.
Councilman Jonathan questioned if children can be around where alcohol is
being sold/serve.
Ms. Lawrence replied she is working with the Chamber who is working with
California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) on all the
permitting for the event, adding that everything will be in compliance.
Further, if the Chamber can't have children in the area where beer is being
served and is required to have a fenced beer garden, then that's what they
will have to do.
Mayor Spiegel explained that one of the City's main priorities is to have more
special events in Palm Desert, and he realizes that some may be successful
and others may flop, but the City still had to do them, because that's what is
needed.
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Mayor Pro Tem Hamik pointed out that the Chamber was actually asking for
$40,000, because of the $5,000 police in -kind services. Therefore, if the
event makes $10,000, the City is returned $5,000. She asked if that meant
that the balance will be put into a designated line item for the 2018 event.
Additionally, will the Chamber be able to pin down a date for 2018, because
March 4th was not an optimum date.
MS. BALDWIN responded the Chamberwas prepared to designate funds for
2018 if the event is successful, which is what they do with the Golf Cart
Parade, and in response to pinning down a date, she has been talking with
Ms. Lawrence and Tourism and Marketing Manager Thomas Soule about
moving it to January to put more head in beds at a time when it's needed.
Mayor Spiegel called for the vote and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES:
Harnik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF INCLUSION OF PROPERTIES WITHIN
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT IN THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE
AUTHORITY'S (CMFA) OPEN PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN ENERGY
(PACE) PROGRAM.
Management Analyst Deborah S. Glickman explained this item is a request
to expand the Property Assessed Clean Energy (PACE) Program, which is
a financing program for electrical savings and water conservation. The City
currently has three PACE Programs, and the one being proposed would be
the fourth and of no expense to the City. The request is for Council to
authorize the California Municipal Finance Authority (CMFA) to start working
with the City of Palm Desert. She said representatives from CMFA were
available to answer questions.
Councilman Jonathan noted the proposal was unanimously approved by the
Palm Desert Sustainability Committee.
Councilman Tanner moved to: 1) By Minute Motion, authorize the CMFA to accept
applications for the Open PACE Program from property owners, conduct contractual
assessment proceedings, levy contractual assessments within the City of Palm Desert, and
authorize related actions; 2) subject to finalization of negotiations and satisfaction of the
City Attorney, waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 2016 - 81, authorizing
execution of a Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement relating to the California Municipal
Finance Authority and consenting to inclusion of properties within the territory of the City
in Open PACE Programs, and related actions; 3) by Minute Motion, authorize staff to
finalize negotiation of the said Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement and the Mayor to
execute same, subject to satisfaction of the City Attorney (Contract No. C35800). 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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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
D. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO PURCHASE A TRAFFIC SIGNAL
BOOM TRUCK FROM ALTEC INDUSTRIES, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF
$110,170.
Mr. Greenwood stated that keeping the City's traffic signals operating in
tip-top shape is a continuous effort, and this piece of equipment gets used
every day, it's aged out, and it's time to replace it.
Councilman Jonathan noted he and Mr. Greenwood had a discussion on
this, but he was wondering if staff looked at the alternative of leasing this
piece of equipment versus buying.
Mr. Greenwood replied not on this piece of equipment, stating their
conversation took place after this item went out to bid. Additionally, that
process will take about a year by the time the City could cycle into it.
Councilman Jonathan shared that other cities had run the analysis and
concluded that in some cases there are benefits. He wasn't sure Palm
Desert would come to the same conclusion and he certainly didn't want to
hold off on this purchase because it's needed. However, in the future, he
suggested looking at leasing, particularly for major equipment as an
altemative, because it can be: a) cheaper; b) repair and maintenance can be
covered; c) the rental terminal point is known and staff can budget for it.
Therefore, leasing as an alternative is something he would suggest for the
future.
Councilmember Weber moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize purchase of boom
truck from Altec Industries, Inc., Dixon, California, in the amount of $110,170 — funds are
available in Account No. 5304310-4403000 - Equipment Replacement. Motion was
seconded by Jonathan and carried by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Hamik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber,
and Spiegel; NOES: None).
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT
TO SELL ONE (1) ACRE OF CITY PROPERTY, A PORTION OF
APN 620-430-024, LOCATED ON COUNTRY CLUB DRIVE, TO THE
COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT (CVWD) (CONTRACT
NO. C35810).
Mr. Acosta pointed out that the next two items are co -related in that both are
Purchase and Sale Agreements and drafted by mutual Counsel, Best, Best
& Krieger, and they also serve Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD). He
said CVWD acted on these items at their Tuesday evening board meeting
and have approved both agreements. In general, this item is the sale of a
1-acre portion of property on Country Club Drive for the purpose of CVWD
building a well site that can accommodate a chromium-6 extraction facilities.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
The co -related site is a current non-functioning well site, but there are
improvements around it on the Dinah Shore Drive frontage. It's a site the
City has been looking at to alleviate some challenges it's experiencing with
a proposed development for circulation onto and off of a proposed
commercial site, and to also improve site visibility from those travelers in the
east and west directions of Dinah Shore Drive.
Councilman Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute
a Purchase and Sale Agreement, Grant Deed, and Escrow Documents between the City
of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley Water District for sale of a one -acre portion of
APN 620-430-024 along Country Club Drive. Motion was seconded by Tanner and carried
by a 5-0 vote (AYES: Hamik, Jonathan, Tanner, Weber, and Spiegel; NOES: None).
F. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT
WITH COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT (CVWD) TO PURCHASE
THE 0.67-ACRE WELL SITE PROPERTY LOCATED ON DINAH SHORE
DRIVE (A.P.N. 694-060-010) (CONTRACT NO. C35820).
Please see Section XIV - New Business Item E for related discussion.
Councilman Jonathan moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Authorize the Mayor to
execute a Purchase and Sale Agreement, Grant Deed, and Escrow Documents between
the City of Palm Desert and the Coachella Valley Water District for purchase of CVWD well
site property known as APN 694-060-010 (0.67 acres) located along Dinah Shore Drive;
2) appropriate funds in the amount of $122,830, plus escrow closing costs not to exceed
$3,000, for a total of $125,830 to Economic Development Account No. 4254430-4401000.
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
None
XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
None
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. City Manager's Meeting Summaries Report for the Period of
September 12-30, 2016.
Ms. Aylaian noted Interim City Manager's Justin McCarthy's report on
meetings he attended during his tenure. She also reported there
were ten staff members that attended the League of Califomia Cities
Conference last week. It was held in Long Beach for three days, and
it was very informative this year. She and staff met to talk about
some of the sessions that were attended, adding they have good
ideas that Council should expect to see or hear about and/or perhaps
bring forward in the future. Several of them involve things that would
impact, in a positive way, long-term cost commitments by the City,
including medical benefits that are provided, and innovative ways of
providing fire services at a reduced cost as seen in other cities. She
believed Council will see a return on investment on the $14,000 spent
by staff in attending this three-day conference.
With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries were received and filed.
B. CITY ATTORNEY
Mr. Hargreaves stated the November election includes an item, "Adult
Use of Marijuana," which is anticipated to pass. He is meeting with
staff to come up with options in terms of responding. There is nothing
critical that needs to be dealt with right away, but he will be
reconvening the committee and having conversations so that the City
can be prepared to act when and if that happens.
C. CITY CLERK
1. Announcement of Upcoming City Council Study Sessions:
a) Tuesday, October 25, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. - Fashion Week
Overview & Future Visioning - Administrative Conference
Room.
b) Thursday, October 27, 2016, at 2:00 p.m. - General Plan
Update - Administrative Conference Room.
Ms. Klasen noted the upcoming Study Sessions for Councilmembers, and they so
noted.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
D. PUBLIC SAFETY
1. Fire Department
None
2. Police Department
None
E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
1. CouncilmemberSusan Marie Weber's Meetina Summaries Rep ort for
the Period of September 12-25, 2016.
With City Council concurrence, the Meeting Summaries were received and filed.
2. Council Reauests for Action/Committee Reports/Comments:
a) Councilman Sabbv Jonathan Reports/Comments
- Community Emeraencv Response Team (CERT) Training - He
was proud to say he completed his CERT Training, stating
Emergency Services Coordinator Eric Cadden does a great job
with the program. He said the community and neighborhoods
benefit tremendously, including homeowner associations. He
hoped the City won't be called into assistance, but if and when
there is a disaster, he believed the City and staff can be of
assistance.
League of California Cities Annual Conference - He attended the
conference and agreed with Ms. Aylaian that it was great, in that
it had lots of great ideas, break-out sessions, and it covered best
practices, etc. He said if the City Manager thought staff had great
ideas, wait until she hears from the Council.
b) Councilman Sabbv Jonathan Request for Action
Envision El Paseo - He recalled Envision San Pablo was a
successful exercise that helped the Council and community see
what San Pablo could be. There has been discussion about what
can be done to enhance occupancy and the usefulness of El
Paseo. Therefore, he suggested putting El Paseo on a road diet
and/or expand the center median into a pedestrian event friendly
space. He was wondering if it was beneficial to have staff look
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
into the feasibility and funding sources for doing a similar exercise
as it did with Envision San Pablo to do Envision El Paseo.
Mayor Spiegel noted that Council had appointed someone to the El
Paseo Merchants Association Committee.
Councilman Jonathan explained that at this time, he only wanted staff
to see if it was something the City wanted to move forward with or not.
Ms. Aylaian agreed to have staff look into it and come back to the City
Council with a plan for how a temporary trial program would work and
whether it would recommend employing it.
c) Mayor Pro Tem Jan C. Harnik Reports/Comments
Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) - She
asked if anyone had watched the webinar on Sustainability
Planning Grant Program from SCAG, stating there may be funds
there for the Envision El Paseo that Councilman Jonathan was
proposing.
Coachella Valley - San Gorgonio Pass - Corridor Rail Service -
She said the project was moving forward slowly, and the Service
Development Plan is in place or in the process. A meeting is
being held today in Indio from 5:00 to 7:00 p.m., and the next
meeting is in Los Angeles at the Metro Headquarters.
El Paseo Holiday Lights - She encouraged everyone to go down
El Paseo to look at the lights, stating they looked great this year.
The Cost of Not -Housing by SCAG - She said that on Tuesday
she attended this summit where they talked about the
implications of having the right/wrong types of transportation and
the right/wrong cost of housing. They discussed how it affects
the young population when there is nothing they can afford to live
in. Two City staff members also attended and they had a lot to
talk about on the issue. What Council is looking at with the
General Plan Update, she believed the City was on track as it
related to housing and density.
United Wav Walk - She invited everyone to participate in the
Saturday walk for the United Way of the Desert at The Living
Desert Reserve at 7:00 p.m.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING OCTOBER 13, 2016
d) Councilman Van G. Tanner Reports/Comments
Leaaue of California Cities Annual Conference - He and three
other Councilmembers attended this conference, stating it has
always been at the top of his list of conferences to attend,
because you come back with a world of knowledge.
Joint Powers Insurance Association (JPIA) - He and at least two
Councilmembers attended this Conference, along with City staff.
He teamed a lot about what Councilmembers can and can't do
and should and shouldn't do. It was a great conference, stating
they always provide a vast amount of knowledge.
3. Council Consideration of Travel Requests and Reports:
None
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Spiegel adjourned the meeting at 5:04 p.m.
ATTEST:
RA ELL" D. K E IT? CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
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ROBERT A. SV(EGL