HomeMy WebLinkAbout17B Ord 1059 C/Z 03-10, PP 03-11, DA 03-03 University Village - 37001 Cook Street - Rick EvansREQUEST:
CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
Consideration of granting second reading to an ordinance for a
change of zone and development agreement addendum to
Development Agreement 97-2 expanding Planning Area #3 of the
Wonder Palms Master Plan, and a resolution approving a precise plan
of design for 122,000 square feet of gross leasable office space,
1 10,880 square feet of gross leasable retail including one drive-
thru restaurant adjacent to Gerald Ford Drive, a three-story hotel
with up to 130 rooms, a height exception for tower elements, and
a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates thereto,
for 23.6 acres at the southwest corner of Cook Street and Gerald
Ford Drive, 37-001 Cook Street.
SUBMITTED BY: Steve Smith, Planning Manager
APPLICANT: Rick Evans
57745 I nterlachen
La Quinta, CA 92253
CASE NOS: C/Z 03-10, PP 03-11 and DA 03-03
DATE: April 8, 2004 rescheduled from December 11, 2003
CONTENTS:
Recommendation
Discussion
Ordinance No. 1059
Resolution No. 04-26
City Council Staff Report dated December 11, 2003 with related attachments
City Council Minutes of December 11, 2003
Related Exhibits
Recommendation:
That the City Council waive further reading and adopt Ordinance No. 1059
approving C/Z 03-10 and DA 03-03.
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 2
March 30, 2004
That the City Council adopt Resolution No. 04-26 approving PP 03-11,
subject to conditions.
That by minute motion the City Council approve the project marketing sign
as requested by the applicant.
Discussion:
This matter was before City Council December 11, 2003 at which time the draft
ordinance (No. 1059) was given first reading and the resolution related to the
precise plan and second reading of the ordinance was continued until such time as
the General Plan process has been considered for this area. In the interim the
applicant was requested to refine the issues discussed at the hearing (i.e., height,
acceleration/deceleration lanes, setbacks, public art, areas for entry signage, bus
stop(s), spine road, hotel design, and adjacency to future projects in the vicinity.
REPORT ON ISSUES
Hotel:
The applicant has presented revised hotel plans to the ARC at its meetings of
February 24 and March 9, 2004 (minutes attached). The plans were given
preliminary approval on a 6-0 vote.
The hotel architecture has been enhanced with additional detailing and stronger
entry on the east and west. The building is basically 32 feet in height to the main
parapet and 35'6" to the higher parapet. The entry tower element is 42 feet.
Art in Public Places:
The applicant indicates that relative to the placement of public art on the site he is
amenable to providing either one large item or a series of smaller items placed
around the site. This should be determined by AIPP and the City Council. The Arts
Manager is in agreement with this process.
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 3
March 30, 2004
City Entry Sign:
The site plan now reflects an area for placement of a city entry sign at Cook Street
and Gerald Ford.
Pedestrian Bridge Over Cook Street:
The site plan provides a "landing pad" for a future pedestrian overpass over Cook
Street south of the mid block entry on Cook Street. This location would not be
available if the "continuous" accel/decel lane option is selected. If the continuous
option is selected, then the plan will need to be modified to provide an alternative
location.
Acceleration/Deceleration Lanes:
December 11, 2003 the City Council asked if there would be an acceleration lane
at the mid block access to Cook Street.
Ideally, acceleration/deceleration lanes should be non -continuous so that thru traffic
and vehicles making turns are separated.
The original plan shows a continuous free right -turn lane from east bound Gerald
Ford to south bound Cook Street continuing and becoming the deceleration lane at
the mid block access. To avoid creating a continuous fourth lane, no acceleration
lane was shown.
When acceleration/deceleration lanes merge with each other and become
continuous, it can be perceived as a fourth (4th) thru lane which in this case could
extend the full length from Gerald Ford to Frank Sinatra (one mile).
These problems can be somewhat mitigated with striping; however, there is still the
potential for driver confusion.
The current site plan provides setbacks of 47 to 55 feet from the curb. This plan can
accommodate the additional 12 feet of widening, but it will reduce the minimum
setbacks to 35 feet and will eliminate the preferred landing pad location for the
pedestrian bridge (discussed above).
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 4
March 30, 2004
The City Engineer indicated from his perspective both options have pros and cons.
If the added acceleration lanes eliminate the best location for the pedestrian bridge
landing pad, then that could tilt the argument.
If City Council determines that the acceleration lane is required, then the plan can
be amended to provide an alternative location for the pedestrian bridge landing pad.
Construction of Master Plan Street Improvements:
With respect to installation of remainder of the streets in the area, the property
owners and city staff have met to work on creation of an assessment district which
will fund those improvements. This project can be conditioned that certain street
improvements must be installed prior to issuance of certificates of occupancy.
SIGN REQUEST
The applicant requests approval of one project marketing sign which is to be located
at the corner of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive. The sign is an attractive photo
simulation of the project with copy applied reading:
"University Village, Palm Desert California... A mixed use retail, hotel
and garden office condo development."
The sign face will be seven feet high by a width of 12 feet (84 square feet) with
an overall height of 12 feet. Two riders (3' x 3' each) will be attached to the
upper corners of the main sign.
Approval of such a sign is not without precedent in that Desert Crossing was
approved with three 48 square foot marketing signs. In this case the applicant
seeks approval of one larger sign.
Staff recommends that the requested special "project marketing" sign be
approved in lieu of typical "land division" signs (M.C. Section 25.68.590).
CONCLUSION
The general plan process has been completed. This property is designated for
commercial development. The project to the south and west will be considered
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 5
March 30, 2004
by Planning Commission April 20, 2004 and it confirms the location of Spine
Road.
The applicant has used the period from December 11, 2003 to address the
issues which were raised by City Council (see previous section of this report).
Staff recommends that Ordinance No. 1059 be adopted, that the appropriate
resolution be adopted approving the precise plan subject to conditions, and that
by minute motion the requested project marketing sign be approved in lieu of
the "land division" signs.
Submitted by:
tJaCte
Steve Smith
Planning Manager
Approval:
Homer Croy
ACM for Devel
ment Services
Department Head:
Phil Drell
Director of Community Development
Approval:
L. Ortega
anager
(W pd o c s\tm \s r\P P 03-11. cc3 )
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM
DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CHANGE OF ZONE FROM
PR-5 TO PCD, AN ADDENDUM TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT
97-2, AND A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT AS IT RELATES THERETO, EXPANDING PLANNING
AREA #3 OF THE WONDER PALMS MASTER PLAN AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF COOK STREET AND GERALD FORD
DRIVE, 37-001 COOK STREET.
CASE NOS. C/Z 03-10 AND DA 03-03
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the llth
day of December, 2003, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the request by RICK
EVANS for approval of the above described project; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission by its Resolution No. 2231 has
recommended approval of said change of zone and development agreement; and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of Palm
Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No. 02-60," in that the Director of Community Development has determined that
the project will not have an adverse impact on the environment and a Negative
Declaration of Environmental Impact is warranted based on the data provided as part
of the University Village Master Plan, the General Plan Update and EIR; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony and
arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council did find
the following facts and reasons to exist to justify approval of said request:
1. That the proposed change of zone and development agreement are
consistent with the existing General Plan.
2. That the proposed change of zone and development agreement are
consistent with all proposed alternatives considered in the General Plan
Update.
3. The Planning Commission has recommended approval of the change of
zone and development agreement.
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings of
the City Council in this case.
2. That C/Z 03-10, attached hereto as Exhibit "A", is hereby approved.
3. That DA 03-03, an addendum to DA 97-2, attached hereto as Exhibit "B", is
hereby approved.
4. That a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, attached hereto as
Exhibit "C", is hereby certified.
5. That the property contained within the expanded Wonder Palms Master Plan
Planning Area #3 shall be exempted from Ordinance 1047 (the moratorium).
6. The City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert, California, is hereby directed to
publish this ordinance in the Desert Sun, a newspaper of general circulation,
published and circulated in the city of Palm Desert, California, and shall be
in full force and effect thirty (30) days after its adoption.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert City
Council, held on this day of , 2003, by the following vote, to wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
2
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Case No. C/Z 03-10
CHANGE OF ZONE
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CITY COUNCIL
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
Date:
7
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
EXHIBIT "B"
ADDENDUM TO
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT DA-97-2
(WONDER PALMS)
This Addendum ("Addendum") to Development Agreement DA-97-2 ("Development
Agreement") is made and entered into this day of , 2004, by and
between the City of Palm Desert, California, a municipal corporation organized and existing
under the laws of the State of California (the "City"), and
, ("Developer"), with reference to the following facts,
understandings and intentions of the parties:
RECITALS
A. On April 24, 1997, the City adopted Ordinance 838 approving Development
Agreement DA-97-2 (the "Development Agreement"), attached hereto as Exhibit "A", for a
development commonly known as "Wonder Palms". The Development Agreement was
recorded in the records of Riverside County, California, as instrument No. 179687 on May 22,
1997 and remains in full force and effect.
B. The Development Agreement provides certain assurances that the property
("Property") subject to the Development Agreement as described in Exhibit "B" of the
Development Agreement will be permitted to develop according to the Development Plan and
Existing Land Use Ordinances, as defined by the Development Agreement, for the term of t.4at
Agreement.
C. The Development Plan provides for six enumerated Planning Areas and specific
development parameters for each Planning Area.
D. On day of , 2004, the City approved Precise
Plan 03-11 ("Precise Plan") attached hereto as Exhibit "C" which provides for a mixed use
commercial development which lies partially within Planning Area 3 of the Development Plan,
and partially on property that is not currently subject to the Development Agreement.
Specifically Precise Plan 03-11 provides for 122,000 square feet of gross leaseable office
space,110,880 square feet of gross leaseable retail including one drive-thru restaurant adjacent
to Gerald Ford Drive and a three story hotel ,42 feet in height, with up to 130 rooms.
E. Developer owns all the property subject to the Precise Plan, as more particularly
described in Exhibit "B" hereto ("Precise Plan Property").
F. City and Developer desire to supercede the Development Agreement, with respect
to the Precise Plan Property only, to expand Planning Area 3 to include all of the Precise Plan
RMPUB\RWH\225373
1
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
Property including that portion that is not currently subject to the Development Agreement, to
substitute the Precise Plan for the development standards for Planning Area 3, and to continue in
effect the assurances that the Precise Plan Property will be permitted to develop according to the
Precise Plan and Existing Land Use Ordinances pursuant to the terms of the Development
Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, pursuant to the authority contained in the Development Agreement
legislation, as defined in the Development Agreement, and in consideration of the mutual
covenants and promises of the parties therein contained, the parties agree that Development
Agreement DA-97-02 is hereby superceded, with respect to the Precise Plan Property only, as
follows:
SECTION 1. The property subject to this Addendum shall be the Precise Plan Property only.
SECTION 2. The Precise Plan shall be the "Development Plan", as defined and described in the
Development Agreement, for the Precise Plan Property. Development within the
Precise Plan Property shall be in accordance with the Precise Plan and, except as
otherwise provided in the Precise Plan, in accordance with Existing Land Use
Ordinances of the City as defined in the Development Agreement.
SECTION 3.
SECTION 4.
SECTION 5.
Section 5 of the Development Agreement (regarding Mid -Valley Storm Channel
Dedication) is deleted.
Section 6 of the Development Agreement (regarding Art in Public Places) is
deleted.
The owner shall be allowed as a minor amendment, without further public
hearing, an increase in the size of approved buildings of not more than 10%
provided said expansion complies with all other code provisions.
SECTION 6. Transfers and Assignments; Effect of Agreement on Title.
6.1 Rights and Interests Appurtenant . The rights and interests conveyed as
provided herein to Developer benefit and are appurtenant to the Property. Developer has the
right to sell, assign and transfer any and all of its rights and interests hereunder and to delegate
and assign any and all of its duties and obligations hereunder. Such rights and interests
hereunder may not be sold, transferred or assigned and such duties and obligations may not be
delegated or assigned except in compliance with the following conditions:
RMPUB\RW H\225373
2
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
(i) Said rights and interests may be sold, transferred or assigned only
together with and as an incident of the sale, lease, transfer or assignment of the portions of the
Property to which they relate, including any transfer or assignment pursuant to any foreclosure of
a Mortgage or a deed in lieu of such foreclosure. Following any such sale, transfer or
assignment of any of the rights and interests of Developer under this Agreement, the exercise,
use and enjoyment thereof shall continue to be subject to the terms of this Agreement to the same
extent as if the purchaser, transferee or assignee were Developer hereunder.
6.2 Covenants Run with Land .
(i) All of the provisions, agreements, rights, powers, standards, terms,
covenants and obligations contained in this Agreement shall be binding upon the parties and their
respective heirs, successors (by merger, consolidation, or otherwise) and assigns, devisees,
lessees, and all other persons acquiring any rights or interests in the Property, or any portion
thereof, whether by operation of laws or in any manner whatsoever, and shall inure to the benefit
of the parties and their respective heirs, successors (by merger, consolidation oi• otherwise) and
assigns;
(ii) All of the provisions of this Agreement shall be enforceable as
equitable servitudes and constitute covenants running with the land pursuant to applicable law;
(iii) Each covenant to do or refrain from doing some act on the Property
hereunder (A) is for the benefit of and is a burden upon every portion of the Property, (B) runs
with such lands, and (C) is binding upon each party and each successive owner during its
ownership of the Property or any portions thereof, and shall benefit each party and its lands
hereunder, and each such other person or entity succeeding to an interest in such lands.
SECTION 7. Notices. Any notice to either party shall be in writing and given by delivering the
same to such party in person or by sending the same by registered or certified
mail, return receipt requested, with postage prepaid, to the following addresses:
RMPUB\R\VH'225373
3
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
If to City:
City Clerk of the City of Palm Desert
73-510 Fred Waring Drive
Palm Desert, California 92260
If to Developer:
Either party may change its mailing address at any time by giving written notice of such change
to the other party in the manner provided herein. All notices under this Agreement shall be
deemed given, received, made or communicated on the date personal delivery is effected or, if
mailed, on the delivery date or attempted delivery date shown on the return receipt.
SECTION 8. Except to the extent of any inconsistency with this Addendum, all provisions of
the Development Agreement are incorporated herein by this reference and shall
remain in full force and effect.
RMPUB'RW H\225373
[SIGNATURES APPEAR ON FOLLOWING PAGE]
4
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties have executed this Addendum as of the date and year
first -above written.
"DEVELOPER" "CITY"
City of Palm Desert, California, a Municipal
Corporation organized and existing under
the laws of the State of California
RMPUB\RWH\.225373
By
, Mayor
ATTEST:
Rachelle Klassen, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert
5
13
t,AL1r UK1r IA ALL-1' U KYUaL Al.lilr U W LL' IJli1VML' 1V 1
STATE OF CALIFORNIA
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
COUNTY OF COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
On before me,
personally appeared
❑ personally known to me - OR - 0 proved to me on the basis of satisfactory evidence to be the person
whose name is subscribed to the within instrument and
acknowledged to me that he executed the same in his authorized
capacity, and that by his signature on the instrument the person, or
the entity upon behalf of which the person acted, executed the
instrument.
WITNESS my hand and official seal.
Signature of Notary
My commission expires:
OPTIONAL
Though the information below is not required by law, it may prove valuable to persons relying on the document and could prevent
fraudulent removal and reattachment of This form to another document.
Description of Attached Document
Title or Type of Document:
Document Date:
Signer(s) Other Than Named Above:
Number of Pages:
Capacity(ies) Claimed by Signer(s)
Signer's Name:
❑ Individual
❑ Corporate Officer
Title(s):
❑ Partner —
o
O Trustee
0 Limited 0 General
RMPUB'RW 11\225373
Top of thumb here
Signer's Name:
❑ Individual
❑ Corporate Officer
Title(s):
O Partner — ❑ Limited 0 General
O Attorney -in -Fact
❑ Top of thumb here
6
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
o Guardian or Conservator
Other:
Signer is Representing:
RMPUB\RW H1225373
❑ Guardian or Conservator
❑ Other:
Signer is Representing:
ORDINANCE NO. 1059
EXHIBIT "C"
Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the
California Code of Regulations.
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
CASE NOS: C/Z 03-10 AND DA 03-03
APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION:
Rick Evans
57745 Interlachen
La Quinta, CA 92253
A change of zone from PR-5 to PCD, an addendum to Development Agreement 97-2, and
a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it relates thereto, expanding Planning
Area #3 of the Wonder Palms Master Plan at the southwest corner of Cook Street and
Gerald Ford Drive, 37-001 Cook Street.
The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert,
California, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
PHILIP DRELL DATE
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
RESOLUTION NO, 04-26
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A PRECISE
PLAN OF DESIGN, AND A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS IT RELATES THERETO, FOR
122,000 SQUARE FEET OF GROSS LEASABLE OFFICE
SPACE, 110,880 SQUARE FEET OF GROSS LEASABLE
RETAIL INCLUDING ONE DRIVE-THRU RESTAURANT
ADJACENT TO GERALD FORD DRIVE, AND A THREE-
STORY HOTEL WITH UP TO 130 ROOMS AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF COOK STREET AND GERALD
FORD DRIVE, 37-001 COOK STREET.
CASE NO. PP 03-1 1
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Palm Desert, California, did on the
1 1 th day of December, 2003, hold a duly noticed public hearing to consider the
request by RICK EVANS for approval of the above described project; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission by its Resolution No. 2231 has
recommended approval of said precise plan; and
WHEREAS, said application has complied with the requirements of the "City of
Palm Desert Procedure for Implementation of the California Environmental Quality Act,
Resolution No. 02-60," in that the Director of Community Development has
determined that the project will not have an adverse impact on the environment and
a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact is warranted based on the data
provided as part of the University Village Master Plan, the General Plan Update and
EIR; and
WHEREAS, at said public hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council
did find the following facts and reasons to exist to justify approval of said request:
1. The proposed precise plan will comply with each of the applicable
provisions of this title, except for approved exceptions permitted through
the development agreement process.
2. The proposed location of the office / retail / hotel complex and the
conditions under which it will be operated and maintained will not be
detrimental to the public health, safety or general welfare, or be
materially injurious to properties or improvements in the vicinity.
1-)
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
3. The proposed precise plan complies with the goals, objectives, and
policies of the City's General Plan and all alternatives considered in the
General Plan Update.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Palm
Desert, California, as follows:
1. That the above recitations are true and correct and constitute the findings
of the City Council in this case.
2. That a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact, attached hereto as
Exhibit "A", is hereby certified
3. That the City Council does hereby approve Case No. PP 03-1 1, subject
to the attached conditions.
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the Palm Desert
City Council, held on this day of , by the following vote, to
wit:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, City Clerk
City of Palm Desert, California
2
, Mayor
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
CASE NO. PP 03-11
Department of Community Development:
1. The development of the property shall conform substantially with exhibits on file with
the department of community development/planning, as modified by the following
conditions:
2. Construction of a portion of said project shall commence within one year from the
date of final approval or the term provided for in Development Agreement 03-03 (DA
97-2 as amended), whichever is greater.
3. The development of the property described herein shall be subject to the restrictions
and limitations set forth herein which are in addition to all municipal ordinances and
state and federal statues now in force, or which hereafter may be in force.
4. Prior to issuance of a building permit for construction of any use contemplated by
this approval, the applicant shall first obtain permit and/or clearance from the
following agencies:
Coachella Valley Water District
City Fire Marshal
Public Works Department
Evidence of said permit or clearance from the above agencies shall be presented
to the department of building and safety at the time of issuance of a building permit
for the use contemplated herewith.
5. Access to trash/service areas shall be placed so as not to conflict with parking
areas. Said placement shall be approved by applicable trash company and
department of community development and shall include provisions for recycling.
6. All future occupants of the buildings shall comply with parking requirements
provided in DA 03-03.
3
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
7. Applicant agrees to maintain the landscaping required to be installed pursuant to
these conditions. Applicant will enter into an agreement to maintain said
landscaping for the life of the project, which agreement shall be notarized and which
agreement shall be recorded. It is the specific intent of the parties that this condition
and agreement run with the land and bind successors and assigns. The final
landscape plan shall include a long-term maintenance program specifying among
other matters appropriate watering times, fertilization and pruning for various times
of the year for the specific materials to be planted, as well as periodic replacement
of materials. All to be consistent with the Property Maintenance Ordinance
(Ordinance No. 801) and the approved landscape plan.
8. A detailed parking lot and field lighting plan shall be submitted to staff for approval,
subject to applicable lighting standards. Plan to be prepared by a qualified lighting
engineer.
9. All sidewalk plans shall be reviewed and approved by the department of public
works prior to architectural review commission submittal.
10. The project shall be subject to all applicable fees at time of issuance of building
permits including, but not limited to, Art in Public Places, Fringed -Toed Lizard,
TUMF, School Mitigation and Housing Mitigation fees.
11. That the project shall be permitted medical office use provided said medical
office use shall be parked at a rate of six parking spaces per 1,000 square feet
per Municipal Code Section 25.56.310.
12. That the approval of PP 03-11 shall not be effective until the related
Development Agreement (DA 03-03) is approved by the City Council.
Department of Public Works
1. Any drainage facility construction required for this project shall be contingent upon
a drainage study prepared by a registered civil engineer that is reviewed and
approved by the Department of Public Works prior to start of construction. The
project shall be designed to retain storm waters associated with the increase in
developed vs. undeveloped condition for a 100 year storm.
2. Signalization fees, in accordance with City of Palm Desert Resolution Nos. 79-17
and 79-55, shall be paid prior to issuance of any permits associated with this
4
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
project. Modification of existing signals at Gerald Ford and Technology Drive, and
at Cook and Berger Circle West, may be used as credit against these fees, at the
discretion of the City Council.
3. The project shall be subject to Transportation Uniform Mitigation Fees (TUMF).
Payment of said fees shall be at the time of building permit issuance.
4. A complete preliminary soils investigation, conducted by a registered soils engineer,
shall be submitted to, and approved by, the Department of Public Works prior to the
issuance of a grading permit.
5. All public and private improvements shall be inspected by the Department of Public
Works and a standard inspection fee shall be paid prior to issuance of grading
permits.
6. Any and all offsite improvements shall be preceded by the approval of plans and the
issuance of valid encroachment permits by the Department of Public Works.
7. As required under Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 26.28, and in accordance
with Sections 26.40 and 26.44, complete improvement plans and specifications
shall be submitted to the Director of Public Works for checking and approval before
construction of any improvements is commenced. Offsite improvement plans to be
approved by the Public Works Department and a surety posted to guarantee the
installation of required offsite improvements prior to permit issuance.
8. Landscape installation on the property frontages as well as on -site shall be drought
tolerant in nature and maintenance shall be provided by the property owner.
9. Applicant shall comply with the provisions of Municipal Code Section 24.12, Fugitive
Dust Control and Section 24.20, Stormwater Management and Discharge Control.
10. In accordance with Palm Desert Municipal Code Section 26.44, complete grading
plans/site improvement plans and specifications shall be submitted to the Director
of Public Works for checking and approval prior to issuance of any permits.
Preliminary landscape plans shall be submitted for review concurrently with grading
plans.
11. Proposed building pad elevations are subject to review and modification in
accordance with Chapter 27 of the Palm Desert Municipal Code.
5
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
12. Full public improvements, as required by Sections 26.40 and 26.44 of the Palm
Desert Municipal Code, shall be installed in accordance with applicable City
standards, the city's Circulation Network, and the University Village Offsite Street
Site Plan dated November 4, 2003 including the following:
• Curb, gutter, paving sidewalk on Gerald Ford Drive, Cook Street, Technology
Drive, Spine Road, and Berger Drive.
• Gerald Ford Drive shall be constructed to a half -street width of 45' on
75' right of way minimum, plus free right turn lane onto Cook Street.
• Cook Street shall be constructed to a half -street width of 51' on 75'
right of way minimum, plus free right turn lane from Gerald Ford Drive.
• Landscaped center median on Cook Street, Gerald Ford Drive, and Berger
Circle.
• Signal modifications at Cook and Berger Circle West, Gerald Ford and
Technology Drive.
• Right tum lanes at all entrances, and on Cook Street at Berger Circle.
• Construction of a bus facility with turnout as required by Sunline Transit
Agency.
• Construct a free right turn lane with deceleration and acceleration lanes on
the southwest corner of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive.
Ultimate street improvements on Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive shall be
installed prior to the issuance of any certificate of occupancy for P . ltimate
Street improvements on Technology Drive, Spine Road, and B ger Drive hall be
installed prior to the issuance of any certificate of occupancy or a sequent
phase.
Rights -of -way necessary for the installation of the above referenced improvements
shall be dedicated to the city prior to the issuance of any permits associated with
this project.
13. This project shall be limited to one driveway on Gerald Ford Drive, one driveway on
Cook Street and one driveway on Berger Circle, with right turn ingress and egress.
The Cook Street driveway may also be provided with left tum ingress subject to final
design and approval by the City Engineer. The Gerald Ford Drive driveway may
also be provided with left turn ingress subject to final design and approval by the
City Engineer. Two full access driveways may be permitted on Spine Road.
Driveways and parking Tots shall be inspected by the Public Works Department and
a standard inspection fee paid prior to the issuance of a grading permit.
6
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
14. Proposed Ber• - r Drive all match the width of Ber• - r Drive • the east. Proposed
Technology D ive -' be constructed to a width of 2' • 6' right of way to match
Technology Drive to the north. Spine Road shall be constructed to a half street
width of 26' on 38' right of way minimum, with a 12' raised, landscaped median
island. Spine Road shall be widened to provide a minimum of four traffic lanes at
key intersections, as determined by the City Engineer. Interim street widths shall
conform to the approved rough grading plan.
15. Parcel Map shall be required to erase existing property lines, establish new property
lines and make dedications for future street widening.
16. A traffic study has been prepared and accepted for this project.
Fire Department Conditions
1. With respect to the conditions of approval regarding the above referenced project,
the fire department recommends the following fire protection measures be provided
in accordance with City Municipal Code, NFPA, CFC and CBC or any recognized
Fire Protection Standards:
The Fire Department is required to set a minimum fire flow for the remodel or
construction of all buildings per UFC article 87.
2. A fire flow of 1500 gpm for a 1-hour duration at 20 psi residual pressure must be
available before any combustible material is placed on the job site, 3000 gpm for
commercial buildings and 150' from any portion of a commercial building measured
via vehicular travelway.
3. Water Plans must be approved by the Fire Marshal and include verification that the
water system will produce the required fire flow.
4. Install and complete NFPA 13 fire sprinkler system. This applies to all buildings with
a 3000 square foot total cumulative floor area. The fire Marshal shall approve the
locations of all post indicator valves and fire department connections. All valves and
connections shall not be less than 25' from the building within 50' of an approved
hydrant. Exempted are one and two family dwellings.
5. All valves controlling the water supply for automatic sprinkler systems and Water -
flow switches shall be monitored and alarmed per UBC chapter 9.
7
RESOLUTION NO, 04-26
6. Install a fire alarm system as required by the UBC Chapter 3.
7. Install portable fire extinguishers per NFPA 10, but not less than one 2A10BC
extinguisher per 3000 square feet and not over 75' from walking distance. A `K'
type fire extinguisher is required in all commercial kitchens.
8. Install a Hood/Duct automatic fire extinguisher system per NFPA 96 in all public and
private cooking operations except single-family residential usage.
9. All building shall be accessible by an all-weather roadway extending to within 150'
of all portions of the exterior walls of the first story. The roadway shall not be less
than 24' of unobstructed width and 13'6" of vertical clearance. Where parallel
parking is required on both sides of the street the roadway must be 36' wide and 32'
wide with parking on one side. Dead-end roads in excess of 150' shall be provided
with a minimum 45' radius turn -around 55' in industrial developments.
10. A dead end single access over 500' will require a secondary access, sprinklers or
other mitigative measures approved by the Fire Marshal. Under no circumstances
shall a dead end over 1300' be accepted.
11. A second access is required. This can be accomplished by two main access points
from a main roadway or an emergency gate from an adjoining development.
12. All buildings shall have illuminated addresses of a size approved by the city:
13. All fire sprinkler systems, fixed fire suppression systems and alarm plans must be
submitted separately tot he Fire Marshal for approval prior to construction.
14. Conditions subject to change with adoption of new codes, ordinances, laws, or
when building permits are not obtained within twelve months.
15. Verify all turning radii are a 45 degree radius.
8
RESOLUTION NO. 04-26
EXHIBIT "A"
Pursuant to Title 14, Division 6, Article 6 (commencing with section 15070) of the
California Code of Regulations.
NEGATIVE DECLARATION
CASE NO: PP 03-1 1
APPLICANT/PROJECT SPONSOR:
PROJECT DESCRIPTION/LOCATION:
Rick Evans
57745 Interlachen
La Quinta, CA 92253
A Precise Plan of Design, and a Negative Declaration of Environmental Impact as it
relates thereto, for 122,000 square feet of gross leasable office space, 110,880
square feet of gross leasable retail including one drive-thru restaurant adjacent to
Gerald Ford Drive, and a three-story hotel with up to 130 rooms at the southwest
corner of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive, 37-001 Cook Street.
The Director of the Department of Community Development, City of Palm Desert,
California, has found that the described project will not have a significant effect on the
environment.
PHILIP DRELL DATE
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
9
REQUEST:
CITY OF PALM DESERT
DEPARTMENT OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
STAFF REPORT
Consideration of approval of a change of zone, development
agreement addendum to Development Agreement 97-2 expanding
Planning Area #3 of the Wonder Palms Master Plan, a precise plan
of design for 122,000 square feet of gross leasable office space,
110,880 square feet of gross leasable retail including one drive-
thru restaurant adjacent to Gerald Ford Drive, a three-story hotel
with up to 130 rooms, and a Negative Declaration of Environmental
Impact as it relates thereto, for 23.6 acres at the southwest corner
of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive, 37-001 Cook Street.
SUBMITTED BY: Steve Smith, Planning Manager
APPLICANT: Rick Evans
57745 Interlachen
La Quinta, CA 92253
CASE NOS: C/Z 03-10, PP 03-11 and DA 03-03
DATE: December 11, 2003
CONTENTS:
Recommendation
Discussion
Planning Commission Staff Reports dated September 2, 2003 and October 21, 2003
Planning Commission Resolution No. 2231 recommending approval
Planning Commission Minutes of September 2, 2003
Related Exhibits
Recommendation:
That the City Council pass Ordinance No. to second reading relating
to C/Z 03-10 and DA 03-03.
That the City Council adopt Resolution No. approving PP 03-11,
subject to conditions.
�i�
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 2
December 11, 2003
Discussion:
PROJECT OVERVIEW
The applicant proposes a mixed use garden office, retail and hotel complex
providing for 122,000 square feet of gross leasable office space, 110,880
square feet of gross leasable retail including one drive-thru restaurant adjacent
to Gerald Ford Drive, and a three-story hotel with up to 130 rooms on 23.6 acres
at the southwest corner of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive. The project has been
submitted in a form consistent with the GPAC and Planning Commission
recommended land use alternative contained in the General Plan Update.
The 11.6 acres of the site immediately at the comer of Cook Street and Gerald Ford
are within the area covered by the Wonder Palms Master Plan (WPMP), Planning
Area #3 and are zoned PCD. To facilitate the project, the applicant seeks approval
of a change of zone, a precise plan and amendment to the WPMP to expand the
PCD zoning and Planning Area #3 from 11.6 acres to 23.6 acres.
The Planning Commission considered this request at their public hearings held on
September 2, October 21 and November 4, 2003 and recommended approval 4-0
with Commissioner Jonathan absent.
BACKGROUND
A. SITE DESCRIPTION
The 23.6-acre site extends 1,635 feet along Cook Street to align with
signalized Berger Circle on the CaI State site to the east. Along Gerald
Ford Drive the site extends west to a future street which will. align with
Technology Drive to the north. The site is vacant with minimal vegetation
and drops from south to north.
B. ADJACENT ZONING AND LAND USE
North: WPMP / Arco and Hampton Inn
South: PR-5 / vacant
East: PR-5 / CaI State site
West: PR-5 / vacant
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 3
December 11, 2003
C. GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING
General Plan: Commercial
Zoning:
North Commercial and Wonder Palms Master Plan
South Residential
PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION
Planning Commission on a 4-0 vote (Commissioner Jonathan absent)
recommended approval of the project.
PROJECT REVIEW
A. SITE PLAN / ACCESS / PARKING / ARCHITECTURE
The property is bounded on the south by Berger Circle, Cook Street on
the east, Gerald Ford on the north, Technology Drive on the west, and
"spine road" on the southwest connecting Berger Circle to Technology
Drive. The primary purpose of the spine road is to provide future internal
circulation for the residential community to the south and southwest. The
commercial portion of the project will be located adjacent to Cook Street
and Gerald Ford. The office complex is located west and southwest of
the commercial. The hotel is located at the southwest corner of the
property at Berger Circle and spine road.
The applicant has described the mixed use project as an "urban village."
It is laid out with buildings and landscaping along the street frontages.
Parking and driveways are located to the interior.
The main feature of the site plan is "Main Street" which runs along the
interior of the perimeter buildings parallel to Cook Street and Gerald Ford.
An appealing open space entry plaza will face the Cook and Gerald Ford
intersection.
All of the retail buildings front onto Main Street and parking is located to
the west. This clustering of buildings and parking is designed to promote
a pedestrian friendly environment. Although the buildings' primary focus
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 4
December 11, 2003
is on the "Main Street," they have been designed with appropriate
architectural treatment on all four sides.
The Gerald Ford frontage has a retail building at the Cook Street end, a
drive-thru pad to the west, an access driveway, and two single -story office
buildings further to the west at the future signalized Technology Drive.
Along Cook Street there will be two retail buildings, a retail/restaurant pad,
an access driveway, a retail/restaurant pad, a retail building, two sit-down
restaurant pads, and the signalized access (Berger Circle). The plan
provides a direct access from Berger to the hotel / restaurant area.
At the southwest corner adjacent to the "spine road" will be a three (3) story,
36-foot high (tower elements at 39.5 feet and 42 feet) 130-room hotel.
Proceeding north there are two additional retail (first floor) / office (second
floor) buildings then the remainder of the office park (12 buildings, single
story varying in size from 6,600 square feet to 12,100 square feet).
The project will have a signalized access via Gerald Ford / Technology and
Cook Street / Berger Circle. In addition, the site plan provides one additional
access to Gerald Ford 290 feet east of Technology. This access will be right -
in / right -out only and may provide left-tum ingress upon submittal of a
design acceptable to the City Engineer.
An intermediate access point is also provided along Cook Street. This
access will be right-in/right-out and may provide left -turn ingress upon
submittal of a design acceptable to the City Engineer.
The project also has three access points from the southwest and west. From
spine road there is one into the retail area and one into the office complex,
and one access from Technology Drive into the office complex. These
accesses provide full turning movements.
Main Street on the inside of the perimeter row of buildings connects the
various access road points with most of the parking to the interior of the site.
Angle parking spaces are located on the ring road which will tend to reduce
traffic speed and allow pedestrians to more safely cross the ring road to the
shops.
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 5
December 11, 2003
The on -site circulation will be adequate.
B. PARKING
The Municipal Code requires that the mixed use development comply
with three parking standards. The requirement for hotels is 1.1 spaces
per room; for retail shopping center five spaces per 1,000 square feet of
gross floor area, and for general offices one space for each 250 square
feet of floor area exclusive of stairways, elevations, landings and
mechanical rooms not exceeding 15% of gross floor area.
PARKING ANALYSIS
CODE REQUIREMENT PROVIDED
130 Room Hotel @ 1.1 /room 143
130,000 square foot office Park:
122,000 square foot net after
exclusion *
27,697 square foot office--2nd
Floor Buildings 3&5 / 23,542**
net after exclusion
488
94
Retail 89,630 square feet GLA
@ 5/1,000 449
Total
1,173 1,206
*Excludable area included two 200 square foot restrooms in each building, plus 150
square feet of utility area per building
**Excluded area at 15% - elevators, restrooms, utilities, stairwells
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 6
December 11, 2003
C. ARCHITECTURE
The retail portion of the "urban village" will utilize "mercantile modern"
architecture using smooth plaster finishes in neutral desert colors. The
applicant's narrative (copy enclosed) indicates that, "The western portion
of the site is developed with single -story garden office buildings inter-
connected by landscaped pedestrian walkways and parking courts with
covered parking. The office buildings are designed in an urban desert
village cluster concept. The architecture is defined with soft desert floor
colors and deep recessed windows. Entry towers are pronounced by
warmer desert hues and trellis cornices at the parapets. Horizontal shade
devices provide solar protection at the glass areas."
ARC granted preliminary architectural approval to the office and retail
components of the project. With respect to the hotel, ARC felt that its
architecture was conceptually headed in the right direction, but that it
needed additional detailing and work which would occur when an actual
hotel developer made a specific application to the City. The landscaping
will be a "Desert Willow" style. The landscaping plans shown to the ARC
were not detailed enough to grant preliminary approval, but ARC
determined that the plant pallet was headed in the right direction.
PROJECT DATA
DISTRICT COMMERCIAL PROJECT
Street Setbacks:
Cook Street 32 feet 32 feet
Gerald Ford Drive 32 feet 32 feet
Berger as approved 80 feet
spine road as approved 20' - 75'
Technology as approved 35' - 62'
Lot Coverage 50% 23%
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 7
December 11, 2003
DISTRICT COMMERCIAL PROJECT
Landscape depth from street 20 feet minimum
20' plus, except for
areas adjacent to
pads 1, 2 and 5 =
18 feet deep
Building Height:
Hotel 30 feet 36 - 42 feet*
Office 30 feet single story, 21 '6"
Retail:
Buildings 1 & 2 30 feet 23' with tower to
35'*
Buildings 3 & 5 30 feet 30', top of parapet*
34'
Building 4 30 feet 22' to 28'
Fast Food Landscape Area
Pad 5 30% 31%
* Height exception required
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT / MASTER PLAN AMENDMENTS AND ZONE
CHANGE
The proposed precise plan, change of zone and master plan amendment are
consistent with the existing General Plan, all proposed alternatives within the
General Plan Update and have been specifically endorsed by the Planning
Commission.
The applicant specifically seeks approval of a change of zone and revisions to
the Wonder Palms Master Plan to:
A. Expand Planning Area #3 of the Wonder Palms Master Plan and amend
the zoning map expanding the existing PCD designation from 1 1 .6 acres
to 23.6 to accommodate -the project as designed.
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 8
December 11, 2003
Response:
The 23.6-acre plan is consistent with the land use plan recommended by
GPAC and Planning Commission and is a logical configuration and size to
accommodate the land uses needed in this area. The previous 11 .6-acre
site (PA-3) provided commercial development along Gerald Ford. With the
Cal State campus on Cook Street it makes more sense to focus the
commercial development along Cook Street.
B. The applicant requests a height exception for the hotel to allow up to 42
feet of height and retail buildings to 35 feet in height.
Response:
The increased height in the retail portion results in improved architectural
appearance and diversifies the roof lines. In the past this has been
sufficient to warrant a height exception.
The current hotel plans show a 36-foot high main structure with tower
elements of 39.5 feet and 42 feet. ARC determined the plans required
additional improvement prior to granting preliminary approval.
Preliminary and final approval of hotel plans will be required prior to
issuance of permits for the hotel. As presented, the development
agreement will allow the hotel as currently designed with a basic height
of 36 feet and tower elements of 39.5 feet and 42 feet. Any future
modifications to the architecture would need to comply with these limits.
By comparison Marriott Courtyard is 44 feet, Hampton Inn is 35 feet and
Marriott Shadow Ridge is 35 feet with tower elements to 42 feet.
Staff would also note that this hotel site is located 230 feet from Cook
Street behind two restaurant pads.
C. The applicant requests provision to allow a 15% increase in building size
without additional hearing.
Response:
Staff and Planning Commission recommend that the master plan be
amended to define a "minor modification" as an increase of up to 10%
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 9
December 11, 2003
in building size being acceptable without additional hearings. This
assumes that the request complies with all other provisions.
GENERAL PLAN AND MORATORIUM CONSISTENCY
The Wonder Palms Master Plan area was specifically excluded from the
moratorium.
Based on consistency with the General Plan, General Plan Update alternatives
and inclusion in the Wonder Palms Master Plan, the proposed project can be
made exempt from the moratorium.
CEQA REVIEW
This project was reviewed as part of the General Plan Update and the EIR. In
addition, a project specific traffic study was prepared. The information
contained in those documents supports the conclusion that this project will not
have an adverse impact on the environment. A Negative Declaration of
Environmental Impact is recommended for certification.
CONCLUSION
The project before City Council will create an architecturally attractive major
entry statement for persons entering the city via Cook Street. The project has
oriented a large open space plaza at the Cook Street / Gerald Ford intersection
to provide an immediate impression. As designed, the project will create a
pedestrian friendly environment with its "Main Street" with the perimeter
buildings shielding pedestrians and persons dining at outdoor restaurants from
the traffic noise on Cook Street.
The land uses proposed are compatible with the land use plan recommended by
GPAC and Planning Commission and will be able to evolve as the area develops.
At this time it will be oriented mostly to freeway customers. As the Cal State
campus grows and the residential neighborhood around it builds out, the project
will be able to adapt to these changes and orient itself to these users.
3�
Staff Report
Case Nos. PP 03-011 and DA 03-03
Page 10
December 11, 2003
During discussion on the moratorium City Council expressed a desire that the City
not unreasonably delay processing projects that are generally consistent with the
existing and proposed general plan land use designations.
The northerly 11.6 acres of this site are commercial within the Wonder Palms
Master Plan.
The precise plan is conditioned so as not to become effective until the development
agreement receives second reading.
Submitted by:
Department Head:
Stele Smith Ph I Drell
Planning Manager
Approval:
Homer Croy
ACM for D o
pment Services
Director of Community Development
Approval:
Carlos L. Ortega
City Manager
(W pd o c s\tm is r\P P 03-11. cc2 )
�5
_s.
University Village
Palm Desert City Council Meeting
December 11, 2003
Commissioners present: Robert A. Spiegel (Mayor), Buford A. Crites (Mayor pro tem)
Jean M. Benson, Jim Ferguson, Richard Kelly
Present for Developer: R. Evans, F. Evans, J. Beardall
The staff report was presented by Steve Smith, consisting of project data and land use.
Request for one drive-thru pad on Gerald Ford was presented. Expansion of Panning
Area 3 from 11 acres to 23.6 acres and approval of Precise Plan was requested.
Request made to approve the entire project with possible proviso of future approval of
Hotel.
Crites: Can this wait until General Plan is approved?
P. Drell: Project conforms to General Plan of commercial areas and worthy of
consideration, per discussion during moratorium.
Public Hearing
Rick Evans reviewed project highlights noting that the developer has worked with Staff
on project successfully with staff for past year:
• The developer brought this project forward because it was consistent with the
commercial corner that is envisioned by the City and was without controversy as
to the appropriate use for this site. The site currently has a development
agreement in place.
• The site was originally a six -acre corner site but the developer was encouraged
by staff to expand the project to 23.6 acres, master planned with surrounded
uses including University.
• Name "University Village" is place -holder only.
• Forma corner rendering:
-Free right turn
- View of corner — inviting entrance
- Cook and Gerald Ford building rear elevations appear as storefronts
- Landscaping levels are below level limited by City water use calculations
- Office product is one-story garden office condominium
- 2-story retail/office product with office over ground level retail.
- 3-story Hotel with 130 rooms
• Main Street Forma rendering
- More dense — Old town feel
_3---1
University Village
City Council Meeting 12-11-2003
Questions from Council members
Kelly:
P. Drell:
City has other office projects where frequent delivery traffic is an issue.
Does the developer plan to limit deliveries?
The projects Kelly is referring to seem to be more industrial in nature,
probably like those further South on Cook St. The City has no other office
product like this. The area south on Cook is zoned differently. This
project doesn't allow any industrial uses.
Ferguson: Does project have consolidated UPS, FedEx?
R.E.: Two locations - One at arbor; another at central location (missed specific
location.
Crites Is there and acceleration lane south of the Cook St. entrance?
R.E.: As shown on plan — No.
P. Drell Acceleration lanes don't work in these location types.
Crites: Do the restaurants across from hotel contain patio areas:
R.E. Yes, as shown on plan
Crites:
R.E.:
Crites:
Is the Paseo Trellis landscaped with vines?
Yes — a possible vine example would be bougainvillea
Warned of typically poor trellis landscape — dead vines evident at other
projects. Need adequate maintenance.
Crites: Is there a specified location for City entrance signag
R.E. No, not currently
Crites:
R.E.
Crites:
Why do we want to modify building square footage to 10%?
To allow user flexibility.
The Council could choose not to grant this (R.E. acknowledged).
Crites: Regarding Art in Public Places, has the developer met with Arts staff?
R.E.: Yes, we are working with staff and reviewing options, including art types,
artists and appropriate application with Art Staff leadership
Crites: The project may need Art application in more than one location.
Crites: Why building weight exceptions
R.E.: The pavilion buildings are monumental and act as the gateway into the
project and enhance the feel of a gateway to the city. The towers help to
prevent a uniform, squatty look. For the hotel, the tower provides an
improved look for the 130-room, three-story building.
Ferguson: The project contains how many square feet?
R.E.: 250,000 square feet plus the hotel
Ferguson: How may will be employed?
R.E.: 500 in the office product, 26 in the hotel and approximately 275 in retail.
Total 800.
Page 2 of 4
University Village
City Council Meeting 12-11-2003
Ferguson: The City is interested in expanding its Childcare program, sharing costs
with major use centers like this project. Would developer agree to
discuss such a program?
R.E.: Yes.
Kelly: Are there any acceleration lanes on Cook St. planned from the SWC of
the Berger/Cook intersection?
R.E.: Such lanes are possible but not planned by us. That corner is not part of
our project.
Kelly: Are there any Sunline bus stops planned?
R.E.: Rick Evans — One stop on Spine Road; and a second on Cook, south of
the Berger intersection are planned.
Kelly:
entrance.
The project should have an acceleration lane south of the Cook St
Benson Please explain the project parking.
Rick Evans: Rick showed how the parking was distributed across the site with all
destinations served, eliminating long walks to any particular point. 75% of
the office parking is covered.
There were no other speakers wishing to comment. The public hearing was
closed.
Council Comments:
Benson: The purpose of the Moratorium was to prevent having to approve such
projects before approval of the General Plan amendment. I don't support
a vote on the project tonight.
Spiegel: We should look only at Phase I at this time.
Kelly
It is the Council (us) that approves the General Plan amendment. This
project is consistent with the Plan. If we want to modify the project and
approve it, we can. A mixed use project of office and retail is a good idea.
This is an ideal project for this area, now and later as University grows.
The project supports the University. I support the project.
Ferguson: I support the project. It has some evolving to do. The acceleration lane
from the Cook St. entrance is needed. I'm not sure about the need and
timing of Spine Road and the amount of commercial retail acreage. I
propose motion to consider Phase 1 of the project tonight and approve
consider the hotel and other phases later.
Crites: I support a first reading of the case tonight with second reading at GPA
first reading.
Page 3 of 4
University Village
City Council Meeting 12-11-2003
P. Drell: The applicant is asking for approval of land use and general parameters
to develop the hotel, not the building per this specific drawing. The future
operator will apply for approval of a specific hotel design.
R.E.: The project is designed as a phased, master planned project. We need
approval of the Precise Plan for the entire project.
Kelly: Will Spine Road be constructed in Phase I?
R.E.: No, the Spine Road is not planned to be constructed with Phasel. An
assessment district to build the roads is being put together by the current
property owner, ART.
Kelly: It seems consistent with our policies and past actions to require that all of
the roads be put in with Phase I.
P. Drell That's impossible to do. Other property owners are also involved.
Kelly: You've coordinated the efforts of several property owners before to get
similar roads built, including work on Cook and G. Ford. We can do it
here.
Ferguson: I amend my motion to eliminate the Phase 1 restriction (consistent with
Crites suggestion above -first reading tonight for entire project and second
reading after first GPA reading.). .
Crites: Second — The developer should note and work through issues.
Project continued to GPA first reading. Voted and passed: 5-0
Page 4 of 4
4
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 24, 2004
MINUTES
John Vuksic stated that they have a very gently curved roof on the
building. The roof material that was previously approved was a
urethane foam roof with gravel on it. He'd like to change it to a standing
seam metal roof because it's a better quality roof. You can't really see
the top of the roof, but you can see the edge. If you're back far enough
you can start to catch the top of the roof. They've never used a gravel
roof on a project like that and they're not sure how perfect it's going to
be. If there are rifts in it, they'd be a little concerned about it. The
standing seam metal roof will be galvanized. Commissioner Hanson
asked if it would be reflective. Commissioner Vuksic stated that it has a
dull finish and would not be reflective. Commissioner Hanson stated
that it's fine.
Action: Commissioner Hanson moved, seconded by Commissioner
Gregory for approval of standing seam galvanized metal roof material to
replace the previously approved polyurethane insulated textured roof.
Motion carried 4-0-1-1 with Commissioner Vuksic abstaining and
Commissioner Van Vliet absent.
B. Preliminary Plans
1. CASE NO.: PP 03-11
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): RICK EVANS, 71-800 Highway 111,
Suite A224, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of revised
elevations for a hotel building in the Wonder Palms Master Plan of
Development.
LOCATION: Southwest corner of Gerald Ford and Cook Street
ZONE: PCD
Rick Evans introduced Michael Robinson, architect. Mr. Evans stated
that they attempted to come back with some refinements to the
elevations for the hotel, including rear and end elevations. Mr.
Robinson stated that basically the hotel was designed for consistency
with the other retail buildings with some up and downs, ins and outs
and movement so it's not just a flat building. Parts of the building are
setback and use different colors to create a village idea.
G:Planning\Donna Quaiver\wpdocs\Agmin\AR040224.MIN 10
ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW COMMISSION
FEBRUARY 24, 2004
MINUTES
Mr. Smith commented that the ARC reviewed conceptual plans for the
hotel in September of 2003. There are freestanding restaurants in front
to the east. The location is at Berger and Cook Street, but it's setback
250' from the street and is at the southern limit of the overall
development of 25 acres.
Commissioner Vuksic asked how far the third floor is setback from the
first and second floor. Mr. Robinson stated that it's setback
approximately 18". Commissioner Vuksic stated that he has a couple
of concerns. One concern is the design of the entry structure. It should
look like it belongs to the rest of the hotel. Even if it did, he's concerned
about it aesthetically on its own. It looks very top heavy. The mass
above the glass line and eye brow is too heavy looking. He's not
convinced that this is an acceptable design solution for that element.
Mr. Robinson asked if it would be better to take some of the elements
and proportions and put them into the entry. They were trying to create
the idea that the entry would be a separate type of building.
Commissioner Vuksic commented that that's okay, but if you took it on
its own he didn't think it's "there". He asked the architect if he thought it
was nice and if he was happy with it. Mr. Robinson commented that he
thought that it was a big improvement to what they had done before.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that he liked what he was saying and if
you look at it in context, it ties in okay. It's close but it needs to pull up
a little bit. Mr. Robinson commented that he could eliminate the
eyebrow, or recess it or leave it flush and then raise the windows up.
Commissioner Vuksic agreed and commented that he didn't think it was
a big deal but they need to "massage" it a bit. He stated concern on the
rear elevation and how long it is and how little is going on there. That is
going to be visible from public areas. Mr. Evans stated that it'll be
across the street from a park. Commissioner Vuksic commented that
there isn't enough happening on the rear elevation. Mr. Robinson
stated that there's one plane with another plane setback. There's
another plane pushed out in front to create shadow. There is a big
attempt to move up and down and in and out. The idea is trying to
move the building in and out and create shadow lines. The building is
approximately 300' long. Commissioner Vuksic commented that the
planes are a couple of feet apart and the building is as long as a
football field. Mr. Robinson stated that on the side portion they're
pulling back about 8'-10'.
Commissioner Hanson asked if they had enough room at the back
entrance to push it out a little bit further. Maybe they could replicate the
arch with some stone out further so that it's almost like a covered
entrance into it. The rear entrance is too simplified. It's not strong
enough to read "entrance". All you read is the mass of all the windows,
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as opposed to something much stronger. Mr. Evans commented that
from a business point of view, the design is not necessarily to have an
entrance at the rear. The closest hotel that's similar in terms of rooms
and basic box is the Hampton Inn. What they've attempted to do on the
back side of the hotel is to replicate a little bit of the front entrance, but
there is a concern on the part of all the operators that they're talking to
is that this will become too major of an entrance. It needs to make a
statement that it's not a back of a building, similar to what Mr. Robinson
did on the retail buildings on Cook Street. Everything has to have a
back. When you're building in the round you have to give it some
tweaks. To be able to move it out a little bit further probably wouldn't be
a problem and to put the same kind of arch as the front probably
wouldn't be a problem because it's not really a cost issue. It's more of
an aesthetic issue. The other option is to eliminate it completely and
end up with a very small, simply stated pair of doors in one of the bays,
which would be a good secondary entrance/exit for the daytime person.
The rear doors will be locked at night, as all the hotels are.
Commissioner Hanson commented that she felt that what
Commissioner Vuksic was saying, and she agreed with him, was that it
reads with too much of all the repetition of the rooms and what entrance
is there now isn't enough to break up the elevation. Maybe it's a matter
of taking those stone elements on the main entry and maybe it's
something out in front along the sidewalk that maybe is more of a
landscape element. It could be a disconnected element. Something
has to stop your eye from reading the complete horizontal elevation
with no interest. Mr. Robinson suggested keeping the entry very simple
and popping it out a couple of feet and then adding something to the
landscape. Commissioner Hanson stated that something minor can be
done to fix it. The front is nice, but it's not reading as well on the back.
Mr. Drell asked if they intended to add awnings to the west elevation.
Mr. Robinson stated that he's left the windows deeper. Mr. Drell stated
that in the afternoon, deeper doesn't do much for you. They'll have
tremendous heat gain from the glass. Commissioner Gregory asked
how much the windows are recessed. Mr. Robinson commented that
they're recessed 18"-24". Mr. Evans stated that to put awnings on the
west side would have minimal additional effect. They like the idea that
the building is clean and would like to let some of the landscaping hold
onto it. They took the patio rooms on the ends off because it wasn't
clean enough. They were afraid that it was going to be too difficult to
maintain, which could have an effect on maintenance and also the
eventual look. He's really happy with the fact that the commission has
pushed them to this level. One of the reasons why they decided to
come back before they went back to the City Council is to be able to get
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approval of the concept that they're after and whatever changes they
have to make and move forward.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that they don't want to design the building
by committee. Commissioner Hanson stated that where it says "Suites
Hotel" at the top left side, is that that element maybe has a little punch
to it and repeating an element that they might have elsewhere.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that the colors are very effective. The
composition of the front is nice. They should break up the back in the
same way that they did the front, but they don't have to create the same
kind of huge entrance. They need to break the very, very long
horizontal elevation at the rear.
Commissioner Gregory commented that the building is simple and
clean but they have a long roof line that they're always trying to work
with. Will this building look industrial because of this? At the least, they
should enhance the feeling of the larger structure towards the left on
the backside so that it reads as an element with a little more
articulation.
Action: Commissioner Hanson moved, seconded by Commissioner
Vuksic to continue the request to allow the applicant to return with
revised plans. Motion carried 5-0-0-1 with Commissioner Van Vliet
absent.
2. CASE NO.: PP 03-21
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): PRES DEVELOPMENT, 1201 Dove
Street, Suite 100, Newport Beach, CA 92660
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval
of revised plans for sixteen industrial/commercial buildings.
LOCATION: Monterey 10 Business Center; S.E. corner of Dinah Shore
Drive and Leilani Way
ZONE: Commercial/Industrial
Mr. Smith stated that this project went before the ARC a couple of
months ago and the applicant has returned with revised plans. Mr.
Urbina stated that the previous materials board had three different
colors of slate and now the applicant has reduced it to one color, which
is Tight charcoal grey. This will be incorporated into some of the inset
elements.
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LOCATION: 41-505 Carlotta Drive
ZONE: PR-10
cURIECT TC
fiL4lSIOW
Action: Commissioner Oppenheim moved, seconded by
Commissioner Vuksic for approval by minute motion. Motion carried 5-
0-0-1 with Commissioner Hanson absent.
B. Preliminary Plans
1. CASE NO.: PP 03-11
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): RICK EVANS, 74-000 Country Club
Drive, Suite H-2, Palm Desert, CA 92211
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Approval of revised
elevations for a hotel building in the Wonder Palms Master Plan of
Development.
LOCATION: Southwest corner of Gerald Ford and Cook Street
ZONE: PCD
Mr. Smith introduced Rick Evans, applicant, who was present to
discuss the revised elevations for the hotel. Mr. Evans stated that the
packets that were distributed to the commissioners show two different
front elevations for the hotel. One shows the original elevation and the
other shows the revised elevation. They added some popped out
elements.
Commissioner Vuksic stated that something they had on their previous
submittal, which he doesn't see on either elevation was an eyebrow
above the entry, but this is good. The only thing he's disappointed in is
that they had talked about something with a little bit more mass that
was coming out, rather than just a trellis element. It looks nice, but not
exciting. Commissioner Gregory asked if the trellis could be beefed up
a little bit. They did address the commissioner's request to pop out the
rear elevation element. Mr. Evans commented that they addressed all
of the requests of the commission. They added a retaining wall to the
revised elevations. Commissioner Hanson stated that the wall is not
indicated on the site plan. Mr. Evans commented that he realized that
and described its location. Commissioner Gregory asked about the
material for the trellis. Mr. Evans stated that they're going to try to use
wood. The Marriott in Rancho Mirage (Rancho Las Palmas) put up a
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st,if l rT Tr
i EvlSiON
whole new system of trellises and he's looking at what they've done
and how long they've lasted and what they look like up close. They've
looked at a couple of other places where they've fallen apart. If wood is
not going to be durable enough, then the trellises could be a series of
metal trellises. He wants it to take on the shape of the chunkiness of
wood so that it's not a little piece of metal or a little piece of wood. He's
investigated TREK. On the TREK, if you don't build a steel frame it will
get limp in the heat. It's a good looking material but you have to build a
structure to support it. Commissioner Van Vliet suggested using steel
or some kind of metal for the trellis. Commissioner Hanson stated that
the columns on the trellis element are too skinny.
Action: Commissioner Vuksic moved, seconded by Commissioner
Hanson for preliminary approval of revised plans for the hotel. Motion
carried 6-0.
2. CASE NO.: PP 04-04
APPLICANT (AND ADDRESS): ALFRED COOK/BRIAN GOTTLIEB,
45-120 San Pablo, 2C, Palm Desert, CA 92260
NATURE OF PROJECT/APPROVAL SOUGHT: Preliminary approval
for a 25,000 square foot professional office building.
LOCATION: 43-100 Cook Street
ZONE: SI
Mr. Smith stated that this project is located on the east side of Cook
Street just as you're coming out of the wash area as you're proceeding
north.
PhD Joy stated that this is a piece of property that most people didn't
realize could be developable or even available to purchase. People
took it for granted that it was owned by the water district, but it's a
separate piece of property. Going north on Cook Street as you're
coming out of the wash, it's up on the hill. The building portion of the
property is actually raised 20'-22' above Cook Street. Mr. Joy passed
out exhibits to the commissioners that show the line of sight. Ms.
Hollinger has reviewed the landscape plans and made some changes.
Mr. Smith stated that the garage entry is located on the north side of
the building. Commissioner Van Vliet asked about access from Cook.
Mr. Joy stated that there will be a left-hand turn. Commissioner
Hanson asked if you'll be able to see the building from Cook Street.
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Councilman Ferguson said he had asked the City Attorney before the
meeting if this was a prospective only ordinance, and he said it was. He said
he had participated in the discussion here based on that premise. Now staff
is saying it is clarification of existing policy. He said he had a client who he
was aware may be the subject of one of these retroactive cleanups, and he
did not want to be participating in discussion if in staffs view the Council was
now setting existing policy through this new ordinance. He said he wanted to
be sure this was prospective in nature.
Mr. Drell said it was his position that the City has always had this
requirement, that significant changes to exterior buildings has always been
subject to review by the City. The language in the ordinance was not as
explicit as both staff and the City Attorney would have liked, and this
amendment makes it explicit.
Mr. Erwin stated that this is prospective in nature.
B. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF A CHANGE OF ZONE;
DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT ADDENDUM TO DEVELOPMENT
AGREEMENT 97-2, EXPANDING PLANNING AREA #3 OF THE
WONDER PALMS MASTER PLAN, A PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN FOR
122,000 SQUARE FEET OF GROSS LEASABLE OFFICE SPACE, 110,880
SQUARE FEET OF GROSS LEASABLE RETAIL, INCLUDING ONE
DRIVE-THRU RESTAURANT ADJACENT TO GERALD FORD DRIVE; A
THREE-STORY HOTEL WITH UP TO 130 ROOMS; AND A NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT AS IT RELATES
THERETO, FOR 23.6 ACRES AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
COOK STREET AND GERALD FORD DRIVE (37-001 COOK STREET)
Case Nos. C/Z 03-10, PP 03-11, and DA 03-03 (Rick Evans, Applicant).
Planning Manager Steve Smith reviewed the staff report in detail. He said
the Planning Commission had considered this in public hearings held on
September 2, October 21, and November 4. On a 4-0 vote, with
Commissioner Jonathan absent, the Commission recommended approval.
Upon question by Mayor Spiegel, Mr. Smith responded that Council would be
approving the entire project, perhaps with the proviso that the Council might
want to see the hotel development come back through Council at some
future time. He said staff did not have final preliminary architectural plans on
the hotel because the applicant did not have an operator for the hotel.
Councilman Crites said there was a planning area, and this application seeks
a change of zone to a little bit more than double that. Mr. Smith agreed.
Councilman Crites asked if, from a planning perspective, there was any
reason this could not have waited until the General Plan process has been
completed to see its fit with the adjacent areas.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2003
Mr. Smith said that perhaps it could have waited. He said the plan before
Council was consistent with the current General Plan.
Mr. Drell said there was no planning reason to either do it or not do it. It was
based on discussion during the moratorium, and there was some feeling that
projects where this was a commercial corner were at least worthy of review
and judgment if they were substantially consistent with both the existing
General Plan and all of the conceivable alternatives and were also consistent
with the Planning Commission judgment. In this case, because of all of those
factors, it was felt it was appropriate to bring it to Council at this time.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony from the
developer.
MR. RICK EVANS, 71-800 Highway 111, Suite A224, Rancho Mirage, spoke
as co-owner of The Evans Company, developer of the site. He said they had
been diligently working on this project for the last year and had worked
through all of the issues faced with staff, Planning Commission, and
Architectural Review Commission. With regard to Councilman Crites's
question about if there was any planning reason this project could not have
waited until completion of the General Plan process, he said they had
brought this forward with the spirit that this site has consistently been thought
of by staff and everyone &se they had spoken to in the City as a commercial
park. It was also consistent with all the other planning alternatives, even
those being reviewed in the future. He said the project was originally inspired
to be a six -acre project at the corner of Cook and Gerald Ford, and with
much discussion with staff and the landowner they are purchasing the land
from, they determined it was better to expand the project into a major
planning area as opposed to one single corner. That was another reason
they felt the planning of the project was consistent and sensitive with what
the City=s desires and wishes are in the planning area, notwithstanding the
fact that the General Plan amendment had not been approved. They had
named this project University Village at this point in time, and he urged the
Council to see that name as a placeholder as opposed to a name that they
saw as a consistent long-term name. He said they had picked that name to
be consistent with what they saw on the General Plan amendment where it
currently has the name "university" in it. He reviewed the site plan, noting
that with regard to the rear of the buildings, they had endeavored to make
them attractive and feel more like store fronts than the rear of buildings.
Landscaping was consistent with the requirements of the City with the new
water calculation ordinance. The project would have the feeling of an old
town main street, although the buildings would be a little tighter. The concept
of the project was a little contrary in retail because they would not be using
traditional anchors like WalMart or Robinsons May or Macy's. Instead they
were using a condo/office project and a hotel as anchors to the retail. He
described the hotel with the two restaurants to the west, and the main street
would go right down the middle, parallel to Cook Street. There would be one
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single entrance in and out along Cook Street. The main plaza would be the
heart of the project and it was intended to integrate at the edge of the parking
lot driveway. Across that driveway was the end of the spine of arbors that
lead to the entrance to the office project. The center feature that was an odd -
shaped star was intended to be the project's art in public places statement.
They were asked by staff and had agreed to consolidate the art and public
places for the entire project into one major location as a major statement.
Councilman Kelly expressed concern because he has seen situations where
areas are office complexes and then someone moves in with several delivery
trucks; next thing you know the area is covered with utility vehicles and
delivery vehicles, and this is not really what he would call an office complex.
He asked what could be done to prevent that from happening here.
Mr. Drell said if Councilman Kelly was referring to areas on Cook Street, they
are, in fact, industrial zones that offices infiltrated into for various reasons.
He said there was no comparable office project like this in the City. Typically,
there are small isolated office buildings, and he did not think there was a
problem with delivery vehicles or semi -industrial things going on in them. He
said this particular area is an office zone and it will not allow those sort of
uses.
Councilman Ferguson noted that at his office building, there is a UPS box, a
mailbox, and other types of things so there are no FedEx or UPS trucks
parked out there and instead they pick up once a day. He asked if there was
any type of consolidated delivery of service points for this project.
MR. EVANS responded that they had not yet gotten to that level of planning.
He said he did feel there needed to be a consolidated zone for those
traditional UPS, FedEx, California Overnight, etc. There were several
locations they had discussed for this, one of them being on the main street of
the office. Another alternative would be at the end of the arbor spine that
goes up to the office so it can be shared. He added that they needed to get
into design development to consider it more seriously, but they felt from a
customer convenience standpoint, they needed to be very serious about
providing convenience services such as that.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites noted that where there are entrances to the main
street, he did not see any acceleration lanes.
MR. EVANS responded that as you exit off of the property on Gerald Ford,
there is no acceleration lane at that location, and this had been agreed up by
both the developer and Public Works staff; however, on Cook Street, there is
a combined acceleration/deceleration lane that is further set back along that
street.
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Mayor Pro Tem Crites noted that on the graphics he had, it showed a
deceleration lane on Cook Street but no acceleration lane.
Mr. Drell said it was his understanding that acceleration lanes are not well -
used and that in essence people were encouraged to start entering traffic
before it is clear.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites said he felt it was important to have an acceleration
lane on Cook Street because traffic is traveling at 60 miles per hour, and
people would be trying to enter the traffic from a standing still point.
MR. EVANS said the design was intended to be an acceleration/deceleration
lane combined that doesn't require people to weave out early than they need
to.
Councilman Kelly agreed with Mayor Pro Tem Crites.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites said it was his understanding that the restaurants
across the street from the hotel would both have patio areas facing the street,
and Mr. Evans agreed. Mayor Pro Tem Crites addressed the trellis which the
graphics showed as having leafy vines which would be comfortable and cool.
Mr. Evans noted they felt it would be a product like bougainvillea because it
is a thick, fully -blooming plant. Mayor Pro Tem Crites suggested that the
developer reconsider because there had been other commercial projects with
similar plans, and the bougainvillea had not done very well.
MR. EVANS said they do want the trellises to be covered and if they find the
landscaping will not be sufficient to give good shade for that promenade, they
intend to double up the baffles in the arbor to accommodate that so there is
shade. He said their feeling was that it should be a wood baffled product,
even though it requires a little more maintenance.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites asked whether staff had discussed with the developer
a space for City entry signage on the property, and Mr. Evans said they had
not. Mayor Pro Tem Crites noted there was a category that allowed the
developer to grow the project by 15% without coming back in, and Mr. Evans
responded that they had agreed to 10%. Upon further question by Mayor Pro
Tem Crites as to why the City would want to do that, Mr. Evans responded
that currently in the Wonder Palms development agreement, it is allowed to
be 15%. They said they may find they have a small tenant who wants to be
in a building that is too big, and it would be advantageous to make that
building a little smaller and then make the other building next to it a little bit
bigger. The biggest hitch in that would be parking because they were still
required in the agreement to meet the parking requirements over all the
project. With regard to public art, Mayor Pro Tem Crites said it was his
understanding the developer intended to concentrate all the public art in one
spot. Mr. Evans agreed and said they had had several conversations with
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING DECEMBER 11, 2003
the City=s public arts staff and discussed both that opportunity and different
artists. He said they were currently in the artist selection process and were
trying to determine the best direction to take.
Councilman Kelly said he felt this was a large area to have only one piece of
public art, and Mayor Pro Tem Crites agreed.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites noted that the developer was also asking for height
exceptions, and he asked the developer to justify that request.
MR. EVANS said they saw the two towers at Cook and Gerald Ford as
architectural statements, and they were not intended to be anything more
than that. Because of the way the buildings sit on the land and the way they
look from that angle, they felt they needed a monument kind of look to them.
They were handsome buildings, and they were afraid if they stayed down too
low, they would look to squatty and really not stand up to the test. Another
reason they felt they would work well in this location was that the site slopes
upwards, and the elevation difference between the corner at the plaza level
and at the rear of the site was about 25 or 30 feet.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites said if the project did not have those two towers, it
would have a more open view scape back toward the remainder of the
property.
MR. EVANS said that could be so, but he would like to go back and redesign
the buildings a little bit more if they did not have the towers. With regard to
the hotel, the height exception would actually put a little "hat" on top of the
building, which they thought was nice. It made for a much more pleasing
elevation. He noted that the Architectural Review Commission had not yet
seen the rendering he was just showing the Council, but it would be taken to
that body once the developer has a hotel operator. Upon question by Mayor
Spiegel, he said this would be in Phase II, and it was also subject to some
further review by Architectural Review Commission. Upon question by
Councilman Ferguson, he responded that there would be approximately 400
to 500 office workers and 275 retail employees at the project. For the hotel,
he estimated 26 workers.
Councilman Ferguson asked if Mr. Evans would be amenable to discussing
participation in the City's after school programs as discussed earlier in the
meeting, and Mr. Evans responded that he would.
Upon question by Councilman Kelly relative to the southwest corner of
Berger, Mr. Evans responded that no acceleration lane is currently planned,
although there is room to allow for it. Councilman Kelly asked whether there
were any SunLine requirements for bus stops. Mr. Evans responded that
several meetings had been held with SunLine, Public Works staff, and
Planning staff. Currently the bus stop locations being planned for the area
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included one along the spine road at the rear of the project closer to the
office and a second on Cook Street.
Mr. Drell added that it was staffs position that the appropriate location for the
Cook Street bus stop would be past the Berger intersection, and it would
serve both the college and the project. They had also discussed with
SunLine ultimately having the bus route run through the spine road which
eventually connects to Portola and would serve both the residential
development on one side and the commercial on the other side.
Councilman Kelly stated that acceleration and deceleration lanes along the
whole length of Cook and this project, it will give a lot of flexibility if there is a
need for bus stops later. He said he would not vote in favor of the project if it
did not have that.
Upon question by Councilmember Benson, Mr. Evans responded that the
parking was scattered, and they felt it was balanced very well throughout the
entire site. He said they had worked hard to not have one major parking lot
except in the center zone. On the office side, it was parked four to one, and
about 75% of those were assigned parking for the office employees and were
covered parking. In the evenings, they could be used by retail, although he
did not think it would be used that much because it was so far away.
Mayor Spiegel invited additional testimony FAVORING or OPPOSING this project.
With no further testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilmember Benson stated that with some modifications, she felt this
would be a good project. However, she felt it was important to wait until after
the General Plan process has been completed.
Mayor Spiegel said he did not feel Council should vote on the entire project at
this time. Phase I could be considered now, and when the hotel is ready to
come on board, then the Council can look at the rest of the project.
Councilman Kelly stated that the Council is the body that will give final
approval of the General Plan, and this is probably what is going to be
recommended. If there are modifications made to take care of the traffic
problems, he felt this would be an ideal project for this area with its mixture of
retail and office. It would also be easy to modify this project to change over
time to pick up the needs of the University.
Councilman Ferguson said he felt this was a great project, and he liked the
planning and thought that went into it, although he felt it needed to evolve a
little bit more with things like acceleration/deceleration lanes, child care
issues, etc. However, it was just a piece of a puzzle. No matter how great
the piece looks, unless you have the balance of the puzzle, you don=t know
how it fits. He said he did not know what the other commercial designations
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were going to be and whether it would alter the mix. He said the spine road
looked great for the project, but he did not know how it would fit in with the
potential road work for the balance of the project. He said he would be willing
to vote to approve the project subject to final passage of the General Plan
and consistency between that General Plan and this piece of the puzzle.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites said one thing that might be done is to have first
reading of the ordinance for the zone change and hold the second reading
until adoption of the General Plan. In the meantime, all the issues discussed
at this meeting could be refined.
Upon question by Councilmember Benson, Mr. Drell stated that there was
currently no hotel operator. When a hotel operator comes and actually
designs a hotel, it will be subject to a separate precise plan. What Council
would be doing with regard to the hotel at this point would be to consider the
number of rooms and whether from a design point of view tower elements
could be 42 feet in order to give a prospective hotel designer/developer the
physical parameters for how to design a hotel. The actual design would then
be reviewed through the normal City process. Upon further question
regarding three stories, he said the request was for three stories, and it would
not be possible to accommodate 125 rooms on that pad with only two stories.
Three stories was what the City had been approving in hotels of this type,
such as Hampton Inn, Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, etc. He said Council could
reserve any judgment on the hotel if it so chooses until it can actually see the
real design; however, it would be a lot easier for the developer to talk to
prospective hotel developers if he could indicate what the parameters are for
the building.
Councilman Ferguson said he agreed with Mayor Spiegel's suggestion to
approve Phase I because the developer is ready to go and there is a sense
of urgency for that phase. He also liked Mayor Pro Tem Crites's idea of
passing this on first reading so that the developer can tend to the "little clean-
up issues." With regard to the City's moratorium, the Council and the City
Attorney had tried to assure people that the moratorium was not anti -growth.
He felt this was a good project, and although he would still like to see how it
fits with the rest of the puzzle, he did not want to hold up private sector
development.
MR. EVANS noted that with regard to the Phase I limitation, the project had
been designed as an integrated project. Phase I of the retail was the corner,
and there were other phases of the retail and two other phases of the office.
He said they really could not go forward until they receive complete approval.
Upon question by Councilman Kelly, he said the spine road would probably
go in with an assessment district. The current owner of the land, American
Realty Trust, was currently going through the process of creating an
assessment district in that area. Upon further question, he said their plan for
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Phase I was not to put in the spine road but to put in the street elevation from
Technology to Gerald Ford up to Berger.
Mayor Pro Tem Crites said he was still willing to pass a first reading of the
zone change and continue the precise plan and second reading until the
General Plan process has been considered for this area. He also wanted to
see the issues discussed at this meeting refined, including adjacency of other
developments.
Councilman Kelly noted that an assessment district was formed for Gerald
Ford, Frank Sinatra, Cook Street, and Portola with four lanes and medians
because of growth factors. He said it seemed to him if that was the right
philosophy, the right philosophy here would be to put in Technology Drive
and the spine road and Berger Drive in the first phase of this project.
Mr. Drell noted that completion of those roads involves other property owners
and other projects, regardless of what happens with the General Plan.
Those property owners are currently in the process of trying to pool their
resources and install those roads.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No. 1059
to second reading and continue Resolution No. 03-124 and second reading of the
ordinance until such time as the General Plan process has been considered for this area,
asking the applicant in the meantime to refine the issues discussed at this hearing (i.e.,
height, acceleration/deceleration lanes, setbacks, public art, areas for entry signage, bus
stop[s], spine road, hotel design, and adjacency to future projects in the vicinity. Motion
was seconded by Crites and carried by a 5-0 vote.
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF PURCHASE AND SALE AGREEMENT
BETWEEN THE PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND
MARK AND JODIE RATLIFF (CONTRACT NO. C22190) (JOINT
CONSIDERATION WITH THE PALM DESERT
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY).
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendation in the packets.
Mayor/Chairman Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony
FAVORING or OPPOSING this request. With no testimony offered, he declared the
public hearing closed.
Mayor Pro TemNice Chairman Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt:
1) City Council Resolution No. 03-125, approving the sale of property by the Palm Desert
Redevelopment Agency to Mark and Jodie Ratliff for development pursuant to the
Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 1, As Amended; 2) Redevelopment Agency
Resolution No. 486, approving a purchase and sale agreement and escrow instructions
with Mark and Jodie Ratliff for development pursuant to the Redevelopment Plan for
Project Area No. 1, As Amended. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
38
CITY OE PIM OESERT
73-51C FREI) WARING DRIVE
PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA 92260-2578
TEL: 760 346-061 I
FAX: 760 341-7098
info@ palm-desert.org
CITY OF PALM DESERT
LEGAL NOTICE
CASE NO. PP 03-11
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the Palm Desert City
Council to consider a request by RICK EVANS for approval of a precise plan for commercial /
office / hotel project at the southwest comer of Cook Street and Gerald Ford Drive, 37-001
Cook Street. Said property includes 110,880 square feet of retail (including one drive-thru
restaurant), a three-story hotel with up to 130 rooms; and one story garden offices totaling
122,000 square feet. Project is generally located at the southwest comer of Cook Street anf
Gerald Ford Drive described as a portion of 653-390-062.
SAID public hearing will be held on Thursday, April 8, 2004, at 4:00 p.m. in the Council
Chamber at the Palm Desert Civic Center, 73-510 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert, California,
at which time and place all interested persons are invited to attend and be heard. Written
comments conceming all items covered by this public hearing notice shall be accepted up to
the date of the hearing. Information concerning the proposed project and/or negative
declaration is available for review in the Department of Community Development at the above
address between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. If you challenge
the proposed actions in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone
else raised at the public hearing described in this notice, or in written correspondence delivered
to the Planning Commission (or city council) at, or prior to, the public hearing.
PUBLISH: Desert Sun RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, City Clerk
March 28, 2004 Palm Desert City Council