HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrelim Minutes - City 11/18/2004PRELIMINARY MINUTES
- ADJOURNED REGULAR -
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 18, 2004
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M.
Mayor Spiegel convened the meeting at 3:02 p.m.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Jean M. Benson
Mayor Pro Tern Buford A. Crites
Councilman Richard S. Kelly
Mayor Robert A. Spiegel
Also Present:
Carlos L. Ortega, City Manager/RDA Executive Director
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, ACM for Community Services
Homer Croy, ACM for Development Services
Justin McCarthy, ACM for Redevelopment
Stephen Y. Aryan, Assistant to the City Manager
Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk
Mark D. Greenwood, City Engineer
Amir Hamidzadeh, Director of Building & Safety
Phil Drell, Director of Community Development
Duane K. Munson, Interim Director of Human Resources
Michael J. Errante, Director of Public Works
David Yrigoyen, Director of Redevelopment & Housing
Robert P. Kohn, Director of Special Programs
J. Luis Espinoza, Assistant Finance Director
III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
None
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Reauest for Closed Session:
Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: 44-491 Portola Avenue (APN 627-164-012)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Justin McCarthy/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Robert A. Ford/Ford Properties
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms
Councilman Ferguson moved to add the following two items to the Closed Session
Agenda. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
2) Property: One acre (+/-) west of the Palm Valley Channel, north end of
Homme/Adams Park (APN 628-030-005)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Carlos L. Ortega/Phil Drell/
City of Palm Desert/Palm Desert Redevelopment Agency
Property Owner: Everett Aplet
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms
3) Property: SEC Highway 74 and Highway 111 (former Shell Station)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: Carlos L. Ortega/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: Joyce Cohn
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding existing litigation pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(a):
a) City of Palm Desert, et al. v. Joseph F. Putrino, et al., Riverside County
Superior Court Case No. INC 044949
Councilman Ferguson moved to add the following item to the Closed Session
Agenda. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
b) City of Palm Desert v. G. George Fox Declaration of Trust,
Riverside County Superior Court Case No. INC 035287
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b):
Number of potential cases: 2
K
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to adjourn the meeting to Closed Session at 3:04 p.m.
Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote. Mayor Spiegel reconvened the
meeting at 4:00 p.m.
V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION.
None
VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE - Mayor Pro Tern Buford A. Crites
VII. INVOCATION - Councilman Richard S. Kelly
VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
None
IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION TO RECOGNIZE MANNY REYES FOR HIS SERVICE TO
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT AND PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY AS A MEMBER OF THE HOUSING COMMISSION.
Mr. Reyes was unable to be present at today's meeting.
B. PRESENTATION TO THE "FLEX YOUR POWER NOW!" POSTER
CONTEST WINNERS.
Mr. Kohn commented that the City joined The Energy Coalition in 2001 as
part of the Six Cities Energy Project. Since that time, membership in the
Coalition has grown to 10 cities. In addition to completing hundreds of
residential and commercial "tune-ups", holding an Energy Fair and a
Torchiere Trade-in Event, it was now highlighting the "Flex Your Power Now!"
program, and it coordinated the PEAK Student Energy Program, which was
going very strong now in local schools. He introduced representatives of The
Energy Coalition, Sara Mills and Executive Director Ted Flanigan.
MS. SARA MILLS of The Energy Coalition said the key component of the
work done by the Coalition in the City of Palm Desert was involving youth as
advocates and practitioners of smart energy management. She said
students being recognized today were part of an 8,000-strong network of
students participating in the PEAK Student Energy Actions Program this
3
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
year —an educational program integrating the science of energy with an ethic
of energy efficiency. She went on to say the PEAK Students being
recognized today were winners of a PEAK Student Poster Contest aimed at
educating people about using the four PEAK Student Energy Actions to
respond to the new "Flex Your Power Now!" Alert System. There were over
400 total entries from five Southern California school districts. Five student
winners were chosen from the City of Palm Desert/Desert Sands Unified
School District, including Grand Prize Winner Natalie Gramer, who would be
receiving a new Beach Cruiser bicycle.
On behalf of the City Council and The Energy Coalition, Mayor Spiegel
presented certificates of recognition to the following Palm Desert students:
Christian Abraham Ramirez Chaparro-Lincoln Elementary,
Michael Chambers -Carter Elementary, Chloe Sharp -Carter Elementary,
Chloe Folena-Carter Elementary, and Natalie Gramer-Carter Elementary
School. He then presented the bicycle to Miss Gramer.
MS. MILLS closed the presentation by stating that the postercontest couldn't
have taken place without the support from District Ambassadors for the
PEAK Program and parents and teachers who supported the students. She
introduced teachers who participated: Mr. Matt Garzinsky (sp?), Mr. Brown
of Lincoln Elementary, Mr. Robert Kiesel (sp?) of Carter Elementary,
Mrs. Julie Wieland (sp?) of Carter Elementary, and Mrs. Peru (sp?) from
Lincoln Elementary. She also recognized Tammy Kemp and Terri Jacobs
as the two District Lead Ambassadors. The posters would be displayed at
City Hall for the next two weeks.
C. PRESENTATION OF THE NEW PALM DESERT TABLETOP BOOK TO
THE CITY COUNCIL.
Mrs. Gilligan asked Kristy Kneiding, Donna Gomez, and Piper Close to come
forward for this presentation, all of whom had played an integral part in
production of the tabletop book. She said about a year and a half ago,
Visitor Information Center Manager and Sister Cities Committee staff liaison
Donna Gomez visited Palm Desert's Sister City Gisborne, New Zealand, and
brought back its beautiful tabletop book. Marketing Staff felt it was a great
idea for the City of Palm Desert, with its 30+ years of history. The project
was launched, and each Member of the City Council provided input and
invaluable historical information.
Staff members then made the official first presentation of the book to each
Member of the City Council and to Mr. Ortega. Mrs. Gilligan went on to say
that the books would be presented, compliments of the City of Palm Desert,
to a group of Fortune 500 representatives staying at the Desert Springs
Marriott as part of the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Program.
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
She expressed gratitude to Ms. Kneiding, Ms. Gomez, and Ms. Close for
their extensive amount of effort, resulting in what she felt was one of the
City's most exciting projects that shows what a great community we have.
Mayor Spiegel commended Mrs. Gilligan for spearheading the project and
persevering through the process.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Regular City Council Meeting of October 28, 2004.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant
Nos. 88, 89, 93, and 97.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by
Marsha Belsky Yousef and Sobhy Gerges Yousef for Palm Desert Shell,
77-920 Avenue of the States, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by Mamacita's
Restaurant, Inc., for Mamacita's Mexican Grill, 72-286 Highway 111,
Suite #J5, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
E. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by
Silvia Lucila Ortega and Ubaldo Ortega for Pepe's, 73-091 Country Club
Drive, Suite #s A5 & A6, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
F. MINUTES of City Committee and Commission Meetings.
1. Art In Public Places Commission Meeting of September 15, 2004.
2. Historic Preservation Committee Meeting of September 27, 2004.
3. Investment & Finance Committee Meeting of September 22, 2004.
4. Marketing Committee Meeting of September 21, 2004.
5. Sister Cities Committee Meeting of September 16, 2004.
Rec: Receive and file.
5
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
G. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE of Proposal by Quality Code Publishing To
Provide Codification Services for the Palm Desert Municipal Code (Contract
No. C23170).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Accept the proposal by and approve of services
to be provided by Quality Code Publishing, Seattle, Washington, for
codification and supplement service to the Palm Desert Municipal
Code, and authorize the Mayor to execute same; 2) authorize
termination of the City of Palm Desert's relationship with LexisNexis
for Municipal Code Supplement Services effective immediately, and
website hosting to be terminated December 31, 2004 — funds for
Municipal Code Supplement Services have already been allocated in
the FY 2004/05 Budget, Account No. 110-4111-410-3090, and no
additional appropriation is required for this purpose.
H. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the Sixth Amendment to the Lease
Agreement with Desert Sands Unified School District for the Palm Desert
Community Park at Palm Desert Middle School (Contract No. C16976).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize the Mayor to execute the subject Sixth
Amendment to Lease Agreement with Desert Sands Unified School
District.
I. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 3 to Contract
No. C20851 — Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Area No. 7.
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the proposal by and approve Change Order
No. 3 to the subject contract with Garza Landscaping, Inc., Indio,
California, in the amount of $122.40 per month for landscape
maintenance services for the Sundance West Landscaping and
Lighting Assessment District, and authorize the Mayor to execute said
Change Order.
J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to Contract
No. C22370C — Computerized Irrigation Program for the Desert Willow Golf
Resort.
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve Change Order No. 1 in the amount of
$19,500 plus sales tax to the subject contract with Flowtronex PSI,
Inc., Riverside, California; 2) authorize the Mayor to execute same;
3) authorize the Director of Finance to appropriate $21,011.25 from
Unobligated Funds for this purpose — funds are available in Account
No. 241-4195-495-8092.
0
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
K. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to Contract
No. C22440 — Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Area No. 2.
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the proposal by and approve Change Order
No. 1 to the subject contract with Garza Landscaping, Inc., Indio,
California, in the amount of $80 per month for landscape maintenance
services for the Charger sculpture landscape area, and authorize the
Mayor to execute said Change Order.
L. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 2 to Contract
No. C22440 — Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Area No. 2.
Rec: By Minute Motion, acceptthe proposal by and approve Change Order
No. 2 to the subject contract with Garza Landscaping, Inc., Indio,
California, in the amount of $400 per month for landscape
maintenance services for the medians and parkways on
Portola Avenue between San Marino Circle and El Cortez Way, and
authorize the Mayor to execute said Change Order.
M. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Change Order No. 1 to Contract
No. C22860 — Consolidated Landscape Maintenance Area No. 4.
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the proposal by and approve Change Order
No. 1 to the subject contract with Steven Burt & Associates,
Bermuda Dunes, California, in the amount of $65 per month for
landscape maintenance services on the median on Hovley Lane East,
east of Kansas Street, and authorize the Mayor to execute said
Change Order.
N. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. C21900 —
Traffic Signal Installation at Hovley Lane East and Oasis Club Drive
(610(T)-02) (Sierra Pacific Electrical Contracting, Riverside, CA).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the
City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
O. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract No. C22620 —
2004 Curb, Gutter, and Cross Gutter Repair Program (Project No. 753-04)
(NPG Corporation, Perris, CA).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the
City Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
VA
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
P. REQUEST FOR ACCEPTANCE OF WORK for Contract
No. C22750 — Citywide Striping Program (Project No. 564-04) (C-18,
Beaumont, CA).
Rec: By Minute Motion, accept the work as complete and authorize the City
Clerk to file a Notice of Completion for the subject project.
Q. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Improvement Security for
Parcel Map No. 24255 and Accept 10% Maintenance Bond and a Separate
Security for the Construction of a Concrete Sidewalk (Monterey 170, LLC,
c/o Thomas S. Noble, Applicant).
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
R. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Parcel Map No. 30342 (SGH Partners,
L.P., Applicant).
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
S. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Parcel Map No. 30502 (Monterey 170,
LLC, c/o Bill Carver, Applicant).
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
T. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the Possession and Consumption of Wine
in Connection with Upcoming North Wing Gallery Receptions.
Rec: By Minute Motion, permit the possession and serving of wine in
connection with the opening receptions to be held in the North Wing
Gallery on December 14, 2004, for the Helene Berman and J. Keith
Stone Exhibition, and on February 15, 2005, for the Art of Surviving
Cancer Exhibition.
U. CONSIDERATION of Request for Contribution to the Coachella Valley
Tournament of Roses Parade Float.
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
0
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Councilmember Benson removed Item U for separate consideration under Section
XI, Consent Items Held Over. Councilman Ferguson also removed Item R, and
Mayor Spiegel removed items Q and S for separate consideration.
Upon motion by Crites, second by Ferguson, the remainder of the Consent Calendar
was approved as presented by a 5-0 vote.
XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
Q. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Improvement Security for
Parcel Map No. 24255 and Accept 10% Maintenance Bond and a Separate
Security for the Construction of a Concrete Sidewalk (Monterey 170, LLC,
c/o Thomas S. Noble, Applicant).
Mr. Erwin stated that for all intents and purposes, the public improvements
had been completed, with the exception of the 10% Maintenance Bond that
was to continue for a year and a separate security of $318,000 for
construction of a sidewalk. He said the City had been advised that these two
securities were on their way to the City, and he asked the Council to consider
authorizing the release of the improvement security excepting those bonds
as noted, as long as the bonds substituted were filed with the City Clerk on
or before 5:00 p.m. on November 23, 2004.
Upon question by Councilman Ferguson as to what will happen if those
substitute bonds are not delivered by November 23rd, Mr. Erwin responded
that the City would make a demand for these amounts from the existing letter
of credit held by Citizens Business Bank. The City had also been notified
that that bond would not be extended past December 5, 2004.
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the City Clerk to
release the subject improvement security for Parcel Map No. 24255 and accept the 10%
Maintenance Bond, and a Separate Security for construction of a concrete sidewalk,
subiect to the City Clerk's receipt of the substitute securities on or before 5:00 p.m. on
November 23, 2004. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
R. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Parcel Map No. 30342 (SGH Partners,
L.P., Applicant).
Mr. Greenwood asked that this matter be continued to the meeting of
December 9, 2004.
Councilman Kelly moved to continue this item to the meeting of December 9, 2004.
Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
I
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
S. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Final Parcel Map No. 30502 (Monterey 170,
LLC, c/o Bill Carver, Applicant).
Mr. Erwin stated that the agreement had been signed and submitted to the
City; however, the City did not have the letters of credit, although it was his
understanding they were on their way. He said he had approved the form,
but staff was awaiting the signed original documents. He suggested that
Council approve the recommendation subject to the receipt of the required
improvement securities on or before November 23, 2004. Upon question by
Councilman Ferguson, he said the map would not be finalized and recorded
if those required improvement securities were not received by that date.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 04-120, approving the Final Subdivision Map of Parcel Map No. 30502 and approving
the agreement relating thereto, subiect to the City Clerk's receipt of the required
improvement securities on or before 5:00 p.m. on November 23, 2004. Motion was
seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
U. CONSIDERATION of Request for Contribution to the Coachella Valley
Tournament of Roses Parade Float.
Councilmember Benson stated that in recent discussions with Darlene Dolan
at the fundraiser for the Parade, it was mentioned that for $20,000 the City
could have people on the float. She suggested approval of the contribution
of $20,000, with three students (one elementary, one middle, and one high
school student) to ride on the float to represent the City.
Councilman Ferguson asked if this would become an annual request, and
Councilmember Benson responded that it was not known whether or not
there would be an annual float.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites said he felt the recommendation should be that there
be a minimum of three Palm Desert students on the float, with perhaps
additional elementary students.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approve a one-time contribution in
the amount of $20.000. which will provide opportunity for a minimum of three (3) Palm
Desert Students: 1-Elementary, 1-Middle School, 1-High School, possibly additional
elementary students, to ride on the float. Motion was seconded by Crites and carried by
a 5-0 vote.
XII. RESOLUTIONS
None
10
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
XIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
None
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 1076 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, CONSOLIDATING AND
AMENDING CHAPTER 9.24 IN SECTIONS 9.24.060 (H) AND (K), AND
9.24.075 (A) OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE RELATIVE TO
NOISE CONTROL.
MR. HUGH SCHAEFER, 77-568 Calle Las Brisas N., said he had appeared
before Council in September and spoke in favor of the ordinance as it was
then drafted. At that time it provided that the operating hours would be
roughly from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., with a slight adjustment for the summer
months. He said he was not able to attend the two Council meetings in
October because he was out of the country, and he did not know of the
changes to the ordinance until he returned. With regard to the hours
(5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. every day of the week), he said he would accept the
Council's decision; however, he requested clarification with regard to
exempting homeowners associations from the City-wide ordinance and
allowing them to be governed by the same ordinance that would apply to golf
courses and tennis clubs. He said he wanted to be sure those gated
homeowners associations still retained the power to set specific hours for
their communities as long as it did not violate or exceed the limits of the
overall City ordinance.
Mr. Hamidzadeh stated that the ordinance does allow for gated or ungated
golf and tennis communities to have any hours within the provided hours of
5:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites stated it was his understanding from this ordinance
that an individual owner of a house cannot start property maintenance until
8:00 a.m. or 9:00 a.m., depending on the day, while a homeowners
association community immediately next door would be able to start at 5:30
a.m. Mr. Hamidzadeh responded that this was correct.
Upon question by Mayor Pro Tern Crites regarding how to explain this
difference in hours to individual homeowners, Councilman Ferguson
responded that this was a carefully carved out exception, balancing the
interests of all the country clubs and golf courses which have to cut lawns
before tee times. He said that homeowners associations by their definitions
11
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING_-- NOVEMBER 18, 2004
were almost always more restrictive than city codes on a variety of issues.
He added that there would be inequity unless the Council made the times
uniform for the entire city.
Councilman Kelly said he felt Mayor Pro Tern Crites had a point, although he
also understood what Councilman Ferguson was saying. He said Council
will more than likely receive calls from homeowners, not involved with a
homeowners associations, complaining that they are not able to mow their
lawns until 9:00 a.m., while the person just across a wall is able to mow at
5:30 a.m. He said he would vote against this ordinance.
Mr. Croy noted that the current ordinances on the books were the exact
same as the hours in this Ordinance No. 1076, and the only change that was
being made was the community hour verbiage. Approving this ordinance
essentially combined four separate ordinances into one. If Council denied
this ordinance, the four current ordinances would continue with the same
hours as shown on this ordinance.
After additional discussion, Councilmember Benson moved to continue this item to
the meeting of December 9, 2004, with Mayor Pro Tern Crites and Councilman Ferguson
appointed to work on the issue of gated vs. non -gated hours of operation. Motion was
seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XIV. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CIVIC CENTER PARK
MISTING SYSTEMS (CONTRACT NO. C23160).
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendation in the packets.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Award the subject contract
to Microcool Outdoor Cooling Systems, Inc., Thousand Palms, California, in the amount
of $50,873.60 and appropriate said funds from Parks and Recreation Fund No. 430, and
authorize the Mayor to execute said contract; 2) authorize a 15% contingency for the
project in the amount of $7,631.04. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0
vote.
B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT FOR
INTERACTIVE MARKETING AND WEBSITE CONSULTANT (CONTRACT
NO. C23180).
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendation in the packets.
Councilman Ferguson asked whether this consultant would tie all of the
City's websites into one domain name so that a person could click on
12
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
something that says "Palm Desert" and get the Sheriffs Department, Art In
Public Places, Marketing, E-Government, etc. He added that they could still
have their stand-alone addresses as well.
Mrs. Gilligan stated that this was something the consultant could be directed
to do.
MS. KIMBERLY SHANNON stated that this could certainly be done. The
reason it had not been done in the past was because each of the sites was
directed to a different audience.
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Approve staff's
recommendation and authorize the Mayor to execute the subject one-year contract with
Kimberly Shannon, Tempe, Arizona; 2) appropriate $66,000 to the Information Systems
Budget, Account No. 110-4190-415-3091, for this purpose. Motion was seconded by
Crites and carried by a 5-0 vote.
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
AGREEMENT FORTHE PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE
AND ASSOCIATED IMPROVEMENTS (CONTRACT NO. C23190).
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendation in the packets.
Upon question by Councilmember Benson, Mr. McCarthy responded that this
particular item would not address the complaints received that nothing is
being done; however, this was one of the conditions precedent to perfecting
the development agreement that would let them proceed. He said that with
Council's approval, they would have a completed development agreement
and would begin their process. He added that it was also his understanding
they were trying to close escrow this month, and this was something that was
needed in order to get that done.
Mr. Croy added that Code Enforcement was actively working with the current
owner, and they had abated several issues that had been raised by the
citizens in that area, although there were still a few outstanding items they
were continuing to work on.
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the proposed Operation
and Maintenance Agreement with PDCC Golf Course Operations, LLC, and authorize the
Mayor to execute same. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
13
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
D. INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES FOR EXTENDING REDEVELOPMENT
PLANS FOR PROJECT AREA NOS. 1, 2, 3, AND 4, PURSUANT TO
S131045.
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendations in the packets.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and pass to second reading:
1) Ordinance No. 1082 - amending certain time limitations with respect to the
Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 1, As Amended, pursuant to Health and Safety
Code Section 33333.6; 2) Ordinance No. 1083 - amending certain time limitations with
respect to the Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 2, pursuant to Health and Safety
Code Section 33333.6; 3) Ordinance No. 1084 - amending certain time limitations with
respect to the Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 3, pursuant to Health and Safety
Code Section 33333.6; 4) Ordinance No. 1085 - amending certain time limitations with
respect to the Redevelopment Plan for Project Area No. 4, pursuant to Health and Safety
Code Section 33333.6. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF DEPOSIT AND REIMBURSEMENT
AGREEMENT WITH PONDEROSA HOMES II, INC., FOR COSTS
ASSOCIATED WITH THE FORMATION OF AN ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
(CONTRACT NO. C23200).
Mr. Ortega reviewed the staff report and recommendation, emphasizing that
this action did not approve an assessment district; it provided for acceptance
of a deposit and started the process. It would all come back to the City
Council in the future.
Responding to question, Redevelopment & Housing Finance Manager
Dennis Coleman answered that the participants in the assessment district
were benefited with tax exempt financing for construction of certain
infrastructure improvements, but it would be offset by the prevailing wage
requirement. The City's benefit in entering into this agreement was the
coordinated effort for design of improvements to be made and the resulting
construction in this area of the City, with one entity, such as MSA Consulting
(Mainiero Smith), overseeing it. He added that the projects to be included
would be Sares Regis, Lowe's Home Improvement, Ponderosa Homes,
Rilington Communities, MacLeod, and Noble, and the improvements
included storm drains, sewer, water, and streets. Further, he responded
landscaping was not included.
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the subject Deposit and
Reimbursement Agreement between Ponderosa Homes II, Inc., and the City of
Palm Desert. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
14
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
F. REPORT ON RESIDENTS' CONCERN FOR NOISE MITIGATION IN THE
AREA OF REGENCY PALMS ESTATES, REGENCY ESTATES, AND
PALM VALLEY COUNTRY CLUB.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, continue to the meeting of
December 9, 2004, in order for staff to continue performing the necessary research.
Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XV. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. ORDINANCE NO. 1072 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, RESCINDING AND
REPLACING ITS ORDINANCE NO. 855, AND ESTABLISHING A NEW
PERSONNEL SYSTEM AS CHAPTER 2.52 OF THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE (Continued from the meetings of August 26,
September 23, October 14, and October 28, 2004).
Mr. Ortega noted the staff report and recommendation in the packets.
Interim Director of Human Resources Duane Munson reviewed the staff
report in detail and offered to answer any questions.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance
No. 1072 as amended. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE FOR FACADE
IMPROVEMENTS TO A RETAIL BUILDING KNOWN AS THE MANHATTAN
BAGEL BUILDING LOCATED AT 73-845 HIGHWAY 111, PALM DESERT
(James A. and Miriam Diamond Chester, Applicants) (Continued from the
meetings of October 14, and October 28, 2004).
Mayor Spiegel and Councilman Ferguson excused themselves from the
meeting during discussion and action on this item.
Sr. Construction Contract Administrator Bryce White reviewed the staff report
and recommendation, noting that the applicant was requesting additional
funds to improve both sides of the property (streetfront facade and parking
lotfrontage). He added that staff had recently metwith two Councilmembers
to discuss the Facade Enhancement Program and would be coming back at
the next meeting on December 9, 2004, with recommendations concerning
the overall program. He offered to answer any questions and noted that the
applicant, Mr. James Chester, was also present.
15
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Councilman Kelly stated that a lot of work had been done on this property,
and he asked what the actual costs were for the facade work, both front and
back.
Mr. White responded that the estimated costs were $160,000 for both sides.
He added that this was the outside portion, and the applicants had also
repaired the fire damage to the inside with insurance funds and their own
funds. Upon further question by Councilman Kelly, he said the total project
costs would be $510,000 for both inside and out. The applicant was
requesting approval of $70,000 from the Facade Enhancement Program in
order to do both sides of the property.
Councilmember Benson said she was not opposed to doing the inside of the
property along there; however, every business from Portola down needed
some kind of enhancement, and every business with two frontages was
coming in and requesting twice the full amount allowed for facade
enhancement. She said the intent of the program was to fix up the front of
buildings, and she felt Council needed to decide how to handle these
businesses with two sides.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites noted that there would be a report provided at the next
Council meeting with regard to that issue.
Councilmember Benson said she felt this request should be continued to that
meeting, and she felt the City needed to have a better policy on how to
handle the businesses with two frontages.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approve assistance for the full
amount allowed for streetfront facade, in the amount of $35,000, with the amount of
assistance requested for the building's parking lot frontage continued to the meeting of
December 9, 2004. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 3-0 vote, with
Councilman Ferguson and Mayor Spiegel ABSENT.
C. UPDATE ON LENNON PLACE/ECLECTIC STREET PARKING (Continued
from the meeting of October 28, 2004).
Mayor Pro Tern Crites said it appeared to him that there is a parking shortfall
throughout this entire area.
Mr. Greenwood stated that the reason for the continuance request was that
an in-depth parking study had been done, and it was found there is a parking
shortage. That helped to identify a reasonable solution that will be brought
to Council at the next meeting.
16
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Mayor Spiegel asked whether the City's COPS program might be able to get
involved and help out with enforcement in this area, and Mr. Greenwood
responded that this could be considered.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to continue this item to the meeting of December 9,
2004. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Councilman Kelly
ABSENT.
XVI. OLD BUSINESS
None
XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CONSIDERATION OF THE APPROVAL OF A GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT AND A CHANGE OF ZONE FROM LOW DENSITY
RESIDENTIAL (R-1, 0 TO 4 DWELLING UNITS PER ACRE) TO OFFICE
PROFESSIONAL (OP), AND A PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN TO ALLOW
TWO, ONE-STORY PROFESSIONAL OFFICE BUILDINGS WITH A
COMBINED FLOOR AREA OF 6,500 SQUARE FEET ON A 0.9-ACRE
PROJECT SITE LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
COOK STREET AND SHERYL AVENUE Case Nos. GPA 04-01. C/Z 04-03.
and PP 04-22 (William J. Worzack, Applicant) (Continued from the meetings
of October 14, and October 28, 2004).
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR
of or in OPPOSITION to this request. No testimony was offered.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of
December 9, 2004. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
B. CONSIDERATION OF THE VACATION OF PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY AT
THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF FAIRHAVEN DRIVE AND
ARBOLEDA AVENUE (Gerard Murphy, Applicant).
Mr. Greenwood reviewed the staff report and offered to answer any
questions.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR
of or in OPPOSITION to this request. With no testimony offered, he declared the
public hearing closed.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 04-121, vacating the subject public right-of-way. Motion was seconded by Ferguson
and carried by a 5-0 vote.
17
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A TENTATIVE TRACT MAP TO CREATE
33 MASTER LOTS FOR FINANCING/RECONVEYANCE PURPOSES
WITHIN THE PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB GOLF COURSE AREA
Case No. TT 33195 (PDCC Development, LLC, Applicant).
Planning Manager Steve Smith reviewed the staff report and
recommendation. He noted that staff had circulated to Council yesterday a
list of recommended amended conditions as follows: 1) Amend Condition
No. 4 by adding "and Development Agreement 04-01"; 2) Add Condition
No. 5 to read: "That the open space easement shown on TT 31836 shall be
included on the final map as it relates to Lots 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 16, 17,
19, 21, 24, 27, 28, 30, 31, and 33 of TPM 33195"; 3) Add Condition No. 6 to
read: "That Lot 28 of TPM 33195 be relocated to the north pursuant to
Condition No. 18 of TT 31836." He offered to answer any questions.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR
of or in OPPOSITION to this request. With no testimony offered, he declared the
public hearing closed.
Councilman Ferguson asked for the status of other issues in Palm Desert
Country Club about which the Council has been receiving mail.
Mr. Ortega stated that the City's Code Enforcement Department had been
working with Palm Desert Country Club on current complaints.
Mr. Croy added that Code Enforcement had addressed several issues that
had been received in writing, and responses would be sent to the
complainants shortly with photographs of before and after. He said he had
seen six of seven issues resolved, and he knew of two that were
outstanding. Staff was continuing to address issues as they come in.
Mayor Spiegel said he was more interested in how things will look in five
years rather than two weeks from now. He asked if there is anything in the
documents that were being signed that would guarantee this area will not "go
down the tubes" again.
Mr. Ortega responded that the agreement approved by the Council
previously on this agenda sets standards for reserve funds and allows the
City to go onto the property and verify that it is being maintained.
Mr. McCarthy added that it was the longterm owner that had let the property
deterioriate, the sale to the new owner was not complete. Therefore, none
of the agreements with PDCC were operative yet, but the transfer was
expected to occur very soon. Further, he said the new owner/operator of the
golf course will covenant to dedicate $1.1 million of operating money to
iE3
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
maintenance and a percentage of gross revenues toward a capital reserve
fund to be used as longterm needs arise. The City has the right to enforce
these requirements, and there was a process for determining whether the
maintenance budget needs to be increased in the future. If in the future the
property is at risk for significant rapid deterioration, he said the City has
reserved the right to take the owner/operator to court to cause any
deficiencies to be cured.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 04-122, approving Tentative Tract Map No. 33195, subject to conditions, as amended
to include the conditions presented at this meeting. Motion was seconded by Kelly and
carried by a 5-0 vote.
D. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE PALM DESERT
MUNICIPAL CODE, SECTION 25.58.310 (D), CLARIFYING THE OFF-
STREET PARKING SCHEDULE FOR MANUFACTURING PLANTS AND
KINDRED USES Case No. ZOA 04-02 (City of Palm Desert, Applicant).
Mr. Smith reviewed the staff report and offered to answer any questions.
Councilman Kelly questioned Use #3 on Page 3 of the staff report regarding
one parking space per each two employees. He questioned that ratio for
employees of Waste Management and Time Warner Cable and said there
was no way there was one car for every two employees. He felt this was
something that needed to be resolved, and he was not willing to vote in favor
of something he already knew would not work. He said he would also like to
see more stringent requirements rather than lowering the requirements.
Councilman Ferguson asked if this would apply to new development, and
Mr. Smith responded that it did so apply. Councilman Ferguson asked what
would happen if a business complied with the two to one ratio and then
doubled its employees. Mr. Smith responded that they would need to add
more parking.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites asked how the City's code would address these types
of situations where the number of employees increases over the years from
what the original application noted, but the City is not aware of the increases
because there is no change to the building structure.
Mr. Croy noted that the Building Code covers open area, and it already lays
out the occupant load per square footage. No permits are required to
construct a wall inside an area less than five foot nine; therefore, if cubicles
are built inside a structure for extra employees after construction of the
building is completed, they are not controlled by anyone.
19
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Mayor Spiegel stated that the number of employees at Time Warner had
increased greatly since the time when the cable company first came in as
Able Cable. In addition to employee vehicles, Time Warner had its own
company vehicles.
Councilman Kelly said there was another paragraph where it excludes
stairways, elevators, and restrooms, and he did not feel anything should be
excluded.
Mayor Spiegel suggested that this matter be continued and that he and
Councilman Kelly work with staff in the meantime to see what needs to be
done.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR
of or in OPPOSITION to this matter. No testimony was offered.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to continue this matter to the meeting of January 13,
2005, with Councilman Kelly and Mayor Spiegel appointed to work with staff on this matter
in the meantime. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
NOTE: THE FOLLOWING ITEM WAS LISTED ON AN AGENDA ADDENDUM POSTED
AT LEAST 72 HOURS PRIOR TO THE MEETING.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF A ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
TO PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE CHAPTER 25.34.030
(CONDITIONAL USES), TO ADD A PROVISION FOR OUTDOOR SALES
OF ARTS, CRAFTS, CLOTHING, GOODS, WARES, AND OTHER
MERCHANDISE Case No. ZOA 04-03 (City of Palm Desert, Applicant).
Planning Technician Ryan Stendell reviewed the staff report and
recommendation and offered to answer any questions. Upon question by
Mayor Spiegel regarding how this would preclude a sidewalk sale, he said
sidewalk sales were on a case by case basis, and tenants would have to
come in for a temporary use permit. Each location was allowed ten such
dates per year; whether they chose to use them or not was their decision.
This zoning ordinance amendment would allow businesses like the Art Place
to display their paintings and sculptures outdoors all the time.
Mayor Spiegel said he felt clothing should not be allowed as an approved
outdoor sale, and Councilmember Benson agreed. Mr. Stendell stated that
approving this zoning ordinance amendment did not mean tenants were
automatically granted approval for their outdoor sales; they would still have
to file applications forconditional use permits, which would be considered for
approval by the Planning Commission.
20
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Mayor Pro Tern Crites noted that this provision allowing application for
conditional use permits was already included in all other zones; it just had
not been included in the Service Industrial (SI) zone.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony in FAVOR
of or in OPPOSITION to t his request. With no testimony offered, he declared the
public hearing closed.
Councilman Ferguson said he had watched the Service Industrial zone
develop over the years, and the City had made exception after exception,
first for a bank, then for a church, a restaurant, and now a grocery store. He
felt the industrial zone was anything but industrial. Typically industrial uses
were such that things were assembled or manufactured and then trucked
out. These uses did not normally attract customers who came to the
location. Given the previous report about parking problems in the industrial
area, it seemed to him the City was just adding more incentives to do retail
in an industrial zone and attract more folks to come out there. He said he
would like to see industrial zones stay industrial and not approach retail.
Councilman Kelly agreed and said an industrial zone was turned into a
commercial zone, with restaurants, stores, art shops, etc.
Councilmember Benson said she did not look to see outside displays all the
time, although she did not have a problem with applications for temporary
displays.
Mr. Smith noted that with the Art Place, this was art that was manufactured
on the property, and they display it for merchandising purposes. While it was
within the intent of the code, there was currently no provision to process such
an application.
Councilman Ferguson said he assumed there was a reason why it was not
included in the industrial zone. He said it seemed to him that any smart
businessman would pay lesser rent in an industrial zone than in a
commercial zone. He said it was difficult for him philosophically to take
another step toward making the City's Service Industrial zone more retail due
to allowance of outdoor sales. He agreed with Councilmember Benson's
comment relative to allowing it on a temporary use permit basis, but he did
not feel it should be made a permanent part of the City's code that it is a
blanket entitlement 365 days a year.
Mr. Smith added that it was not a blanket entitlement. Applications for
conditional use permits would have be filed and approved by Planning
Commission. He said it was only a blanket entitlement if the Planning
Commission approves and Council concurs. Upon question by Mayor
21
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Spiegel as to whether the Art Place would come to the City every time they
want to put a piece of art out there, Mr. Smith responded that they would
designate areas where the art may be placed. The individual tenant/office
at that space would be able to put a piece of art in the designated area.
Upon question by Councilman Ferguson, Mr. Smith responded that the
owner was having difficulties with the tenants placing art all over the place,
and the idea of this application was to have designated areas where each
tenant could place art should they choose to do so.
Mayor Spiegel suggested that the wording of the amendment be changed to
read: "Outdoor sales of art" rather than including, crafts, clothing, goods,
wares, and other merchandise as proposed by staff. Mr. Smith added that
this language had come from the original code amendment done for the
College of the Desert Street Fair, which then applied to the commercial
districts.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites agreed with Mayor Spiegel but suggested a proviso
that any such application could not be considered if it reduces parking.
Mayor Spiegel agreed.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites moved to waive further reading and pass Ordinance No.1087
to second reading, with the following amendment: Allow as a conditional use in the Service
Industrial Area display of art, provided that such display does not impact amount of parking
available on the property. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 3-2 vote, with
Councilmen Ferguson and Kelly voting NO.
XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
None
B. CITY ATTORNEY
None
C. CITY CLERK
None
22
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
D. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
Councilmember Benson asked the City Attorney to bring back
to the City Council a draft policy regarding receipt of funds that
preclude an elected or appointed official from voting on an
issue. She said LAFCO (Local Agency Formation
Commission) had a policy that stated if a voting member had
received more than $250 on an item being considered, that
member had to abstain. Additionally, she'd also like to
incorporate a policy that specifies how many abstentions a
voting member can exercise in the course of the legislative
body's business before that member becomes ineffective,
particularly on the Planning Commission.
2. Councilman Kelly was appreciative for the project update he'd
just received from Public Works. However, he was concerned
over some of the time lines stated — for instance, the Portola
Bridge project reflected it was some three and a half years
from completion.
Mr. Greenwood responded that the numbers were "worst case"
scenarios, and that project was actually proceeding on the
"fast track." He said staff hoped design for the Portola Bridge
would be completed by Spring 2005, with construction to
commence in Summer 2005.
3. Councilman Ferguson noted that the City Council had recently
been appointing several ad hoc committees for various
purposes. Particularly, he wondered what the "Alamo" Wall
Committee had done in looking at zero lot line walls in front
yards of residential neighborhoods.
Councilman Kelly agreed that it was an issue that needed
attention.
o City Council Committee Reports:
Riverside Countv Library Desert Zone Advisory Meeting —
Councilmember Benson said she'd recently attended the Zone
Meeting and was pleased to report:
• College of the Desert Library would remain open for the
hours of 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Monday through Thursday
during the College's break.
23
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
- County imposed a Library Mitigation Fee of $300 per new
home beginning in October and had already collected over
$600,000, which is being expended for materials throughout
the District; the fund was expected to grow.
- On November 29-30, County Library Officials will be meeting
in Sacramento on a bonding issue from which they're trying to
secure funding for a new library in Thousand Palms. If their
effort proves unsuccessful, Supervisor Wilson has promised to
find local funds for this purpose.
- County Library System now belongs to the Inland Library
Network, a partnership with the San Bernardino County Library
System, which now offers Riverside County Library
cardholders access to 2.2 million books to choose from, and
it can be done through the Internet for delivery to the Palm
Desert Library. This partnership was made possible through
State grant funds. She had asked staff to provide each
Councilmember with a brochure on this new program.
- Desert Library Zone Manager Barbara Bowie was working to
initiate the "One Book, One Community" program, which had
been started originally in Palm Springs. It was a collaborative
program with the school districts where students and teachers
all read the same book and then offer comment, bringing the
community together.
2. CVAG Enerav & Environment Committee —
Mayor Pro Tern Crites reported:
- Provided City Attorney with the draft Coachella Valley
Conservation Commission guidelines for the formation of a
Joint Powers Authority, which would administer the Habitat
Conservation Plan, if approved.
- At the City Council's December meeting, there would be a
request for funding for the Red Imported Fire Ant Program for
the next six months until the Coachella Valley Mosquito and
Vector Control District can get their funding and assessment
district. The cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells were
supportive of it; although, Palm Springs has the majority of the
infestation problem and did not plan to do anything.
- For the first time ever, the Committee declared several
positions on the E & E Committee vacant for lack of
attendance; City of Palm Springs has not attended for nearly
a year, and two tribes, the Cabazon and Torres Martinez,
positions were also declared vacant. The Agua Caliente's
position was one meeting from being declared vacant. Asked
Executive Director Wohlmuth to poll the other committees, and
noted that both the Torres Martinez and the Cabazons were
24
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
equally absent in the CVAG Committees chaired by
Mayor Spiegel and Councilmember Benson.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites believed CVAG's Executive Committee
should consider how it administers membership
requirements — if members can merely attend Executive
Committee or also be required to participate on the related
advisory committees and in what manner each member is
represented (by elected official or staff member). He said the
Agua Caliente tribe was active on the Transportation
Committee, but it was the only tribe and the only other
committee, noting that Blythe representatives were especially
active and drove two hours to do so.
City Councilmembers concurred that membership representation should be
discussed by CVAG's Executive Committee.
There would also be a Special Energy & Environment
Committee Meeting on November 29 for the following items of
business in hopes the resulting recommendations could be
forwarded onto the Executive Committee for its December
meeting.
• A final look at the model construction and demolition debris
ordinance for the Valley, which will divert as much as 50% of
such refuse away from landfills and into recycling programs.
The City's own Bob Kohn had been instrumental in drafting this
document, and the BIA (Building & Industry Association)
supported it.
• Consider supporting the alternative that has been endorsed
by the Salton Sea Authority, and try to get State monies for it.
• Waste Management will be in attendance to discuss the
options selected on pyrolysis, an effort to remove about
300 tons/day out of the waste stream on its way to the new
Edom Hill Transfer Station. The waste will be composted and
will receive diversion credit, and the Committee will review
blended rates for cities.
Mayor Spiegel remarked that the renovation of Washington
Charter School was set to begin soon, and he wondered how
that construction and demolition debris would be handled.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites said staff should consider expediting the
City's consideration of the model construction debris ordinance
by early January. He said the Washington Charter School
Project could then be used as a model project for recycling.
25
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
3. League of California Cities - Riverside Division —
Councilman Kelly said he recently attended the Riverside
Division's bimonthly meeting where California Attorney General
Bill Lockyer spoke. He observed that in addition to the
excellent training it has always provided, the Proposition 1 A
negotiation with the Governor was the first real success
enjoyed by the League of California Cities.
4. Cove Commission — Councilman Ferguson commented that
everyone had probably already seen it in the newspaper today;
but at yesterday's Cove Commission Meeting held in
Palm Desert, where he and Councilman Kelly were
representatives, Rancho Mirage asked if Palm Desert would
conceptually approve giving $11 million for their pool facility
and park, along with the Cities of Indian Wells and Rancho
Mirage. He said in almost every formula considered,
Palm Desert ends up picking up about half the cost, and Palm
Desert Cove Commission representatives observed:
a) Palm Desert's entire City Council had never been
approached about such a project; therefore, representatives
were not in a position to provide even conceptual
endorsement; b) the City had received a letter from the YMCA
Board's President-elect, indicating that they'd been in
discussions with Cal State; c) in talking with the President-
elect, he was asked why Palm Desert was being put in a
position of having to choose between a Palm Desert or a
Rancho Mirage site, and why the City hadn't been approached
by either Cal State, Rancho Mirage, orthe YMCA. The answer
given was that the current YMCA Board President favored the
Rancho Mirage alternative, yet the President-elect said the
Board favored working with Cal State, partially because of
utility issues, and also for partnering for child care services on
the campus. Therefore, the Technical Advisory Committee
and Mr. Ortega were asked to sit down with the YMCA and
with Cal State to inquire about the potential, and if positively
received, the proposal should be brought back to the City
Council. Therefore, no action was taken on the pool
contribution question, and they were following up on at least
two Palm Desert institutions that were interested in the project.
Mayor Pro Tern Crites recalled that during the recent school
district boundary issue, Rancho Mirage was offended that
Palm Desert had not approached it first before making a public
proposal.
26
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
ADJOURNED REGULAR
PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING NOVEMBER 18, 2004
Mayor Spiegel pointed out that the City had already committed
$500,000 to the College of the Desert pool, although COD had
changed its plans and will be using some of its bond funds to
renovate and expand its existing facility, making for a longer
process. But he felt looking at Cal State and the proposed
Rancho Mirage site in comparison with where the majority of
Palm Desert residents live, the COD alternative seemed more
centrally located for residents' use.
o City Council Comments:
City Council Liaison Reports.
a) Palm Desert Hiah School — Mayor Spiegel said he was at
the High School yesterday, and he had two comments. First,
Aztec Way was wonderful and allowed him to make a speedy
departure. Second, he was at the school to support the
program begun by Westfield Shoppingtown's General Manager
Norine Bowen. She teaches juniors and seniors how to fill out
an application, how to write a resume, and how to be
interviewed. He said there were about 12 students
participating, and along with Norine, Macy's Employment
Manager was there interviewing for holiday seasonal
employees. He said it was a great program, the students had
benefited tremendously, and it certainly was confirmation of
Ms. Bowen's receipt of the 2004 ATHENA Award.
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Ferguson, second by Crites, and unanimous vote of the Agency
Board, Chairman Spiegel adjourned the meeting at 6:12 p.m.
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
ROBERT A. SPIEGEL, MAYOR
27