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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes - Citzen's Advisory Committee for Project Area No. 4 - 02/09/2004PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY MEMORANDUM CITY C 2004 MAR ! 6 AM TO: RACHELLE KLASSEN, CITY CLERK FROM: NIAMH ORTEGA, SENIOR OFFICE ASSISTANT DATE: MARCH 15, 2004 SUBJECT: SUBMISSION OF MINUTES FOR THE CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MEETING OF FEBRUARY 9, 2004 Attached for addition to the agenda for the City Council meeting of March 25, 2004, is a copy of the minutes for the Project Area No. 4 Committee meeting of March 15, 2004. Please let me know if you need additional information. nmo Attachment (1) G:1RDA\Niamh Ortega\WP Data \Committees\PA41Memos\rklassen-PA4minutes.wpd PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES February 9, 2004 I. CALL TO ORDER A regular meeting was called to order by Chairman Campbell on Monday, February 9, 2004, at 3:00 p.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Absent: Charles Ash, Member Russell Campbell, Chairman Harry Church, Member Joyce Frisco, Member Marjorie Goffiney, Vice -Chairman Frank Proulx, Member Sherry Trevor, Member Also Present: Lauri Aylaian, Development Manager Randy Case, Palm Desert Country Club Development (Architect) Dennis Coleman, Redevelopment Finance Manager Phil Drell, Community Development Manager Holly Escobedo, 76983 New York Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Cindy Finerty, Planning Commission Liaison John Gray, 76963 New York Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Mark Greenwood, City Engineer Gary Hautz, 77370 Minnesota Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Richard Kelly, Council Member Shawn Kilpatrick, Code Compliance Officer Larry Kosmont, Kosmont Development/Palm Desert Country Club Development Justin McCarthy, ACM/Redevelopment Niamh Ortega, Recording Secretary Jerome Pineau, 77510 California Drive, Palm Desert Country Club Barbara Powers, 76918 Kentucky Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Rudy Reyes, 76995 New York Avenue, Palm Desert Country Club Sherry Ryan, Palm Desert Country Club Development CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2004 Robert Spiegel, Council Member Frank Stoltz, Palm Desert Country Club Development Lisa Theodoratus, 77040 Utah Circle, Palm Desert Country Club Suzanne Tracy, 77020 Utah Circle, Palm Desert Country Club Jeff Winklepleck, Parks and Recreation Planning Manager David Yrigoyen, Director of Redevelopment 111. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Chairman Campbell directed that all comments regarding the development at Palm Desert Country Club be presented under Item VI, A. IV. CONSENT CALENDAR APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF THE CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MEETING OF OCTOBER 20, 2003 Ms. Goffiney noted two corrections in the Minutes of the October 20, 2003 meeting. MOTION made by Member Frisco, seconded by Member Trevor, and unanimously carried, that the Minutes of the October 20, 2003, meeting be approved as corrected. V.UNFINISHED BUSINESS None. VI. NEW BUSINESS A. PRESENTATION BY RANDY CASE AND LARRY KOSMONT, PALM DESERT COUNTRY CLUB DEVELOPMENT, LLC Mr. Kosmont introduced Sherry Ryan and Randy Case, his partners on the Palm Desert Country Club project. He provided the committee with insight to his professional background and of the experience of each of the members of his team, listing some of the projects each of them had previously worked on. He also outlined the various phases of the project, consisting of the construction of 95 single-family homes, clubhouse remodeling, and golf course renovation. He indicated that as developers, they have acquired an interest in Palm Desert Country Club. According to Mr. Kosmont, over $25 million will be invested in -the neighborhood. One purpose is to revitalize the golf course by making a $5 million investment. The 27-hole golf course currently in place has been in existence since the early 1960s and has had little upgrading to G\RDA\Niamh Ortega\WP Data1Committees\PA41Minutes120041020904.doc 2 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2004 date. It is one of only two manually watered golf courses in the desert. A state-of-the-art irrigation system would be installed, which would save about 500 acre-feet of water per year. It was anticipated that there would be some interruptions in play, but work would be performed as efficiently as possible. The clubhouse is also in need of substantial reinvestment. This renovation cannot occur unless the improvements can be capitalized. The second purpose is to build attractive, single -story Spanish -style homes, price them reasonably, and invest some of the profit from home sales in the golf course. Mr. Kosmont informed attendees that one part of the project could not happen without the other. 65 of the new homes will be built adjacent to the clubhouse where the driving range now exists, and will have views of the golf course. The remaining 30 homes will be built on properties located at the ends of the fairways throughout the neighborhood. Mr. Kosmont provided a timeline for each phase of the project, and indicated that completion is expected in the summer of 2006. He informed the Committee that hundreds of discussions have taken place with various groups and individuals to ensure that the project is going in the right direction. As a result of those discussions, 17 homes were removed from the original plan of 112, and several adjustments were made to the overall plan. Mr. Stoltz displayed several renderings of the proposed homes. The completed houses would be between 1700 and 1850 sq. ft. with several variations of Spanish architectural style elements. He also indicated that a fourth floor plan was added to the original three to accommodate several Tots that were shallower than others. Mr. Kosmont stated that a golf course architect has reviewed the current layout of the golf course and made adjustments according to the needs of the course that would improve play. He also reviewed the current usage of the clubhouse and redesigned the interior to include meeting rooms, and addressed the layout of the parking lot to improve traffic flow and usage. Mr. Kosmont indicated that Palm Desert Country Club Development is a long-term investor with representatives planning to buy homes in the area. The company will have a presence in the valley shortly. He stated that the investment in this neighborhood would greatly improve the value of all properties within the country club. Mr. John Gray, 76963 New York Avenue, informed the Committee that the view he purchased with his home will disappear, and his property value will decrease as a result. He questioned if the improvements would be performed at all, and if Kosmont Development was a reputable company. He indicated that traffic would be greatly increased should the proposed development become a reality. G:\RDAWIamh Ortega\WP Data\Committees1PA41Minutes120041020904.doc 3 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2004 Mr. Ash questioned the location of Mr. Gray's home. Mr. Kosmont displayed photographs representing the view of the course from various homes. Discussion ensued as to whether Mr. Gray's view of the course would be affected. This issue was not resolved. Mr. Jerome Pineau introduced himself as the founder and president of the Palm Desert Country Club Preservation Society, which is composed of Palm Desert Country Club residents. He stated that this particular group of residents opposes the proposed development. He stated that dozens and dozens of residents have signed his petition opposing the rezoning and redevelopment of the country club. He stated his view of Mr. Kosmont's intentions. He requested that the Council examine this project and make the right decision for the community. Mr. Ash questioned if the Kosmont Group has told Mr. Pineau that the City backed their project. Mr. Pineau answered that Sherry Ryan had informed him, although she strongly denied that she had spoken to the gentleman. When Mr. Pineau was questioned as to the specifics of his organization, he declined to respond. Ms. Barbara Powers, 76918 Kentucky Avenue, spoke in support of the project. She stated that although there may be dozens against the project, hundreds are in approval and support the development. Ms. Holly Escobedo, 76983 New York Avenue, has lived at this address for 12 years. She distributed a map depicting the new development and the location of her house. She stated that the distance between her house and the new development in the center of the golf course would be approximately 150 feet, which she feels is much too close. She stated that she would lose much of her view, and that her new neighbors would gain a view into her house. She stated she opposes the 14 homes directly opposite hers, but supports the golf course renovation that she feels is desperately needed. Mr. Charles Ash, Member, requested to speak as a resident of the Country Club. He has resided at 77130 New York Avenue for the past sixteen years. According to Mr. Ash, even though his view would be affected by the project, he is in favor of it since it will revitalize the golf course and the clubhouse, as well as realize other cosmetic improvements. He commended Kosmont Development for working to alleviate any potential issues as far as golf course access, and stated that he feels they have done an excellent job with the development. He furthered that additional traffic would not be an issue within the country club. Mr. Ash also reported that the water district has addressed water pressure concerns, and anticipates that issues will be resolved with the additional water lines planned for construction. Mr. Ash stated that meetings with the developer have not been secretive, as suggested by another speaker, but have been very open and has experienced the involvement of many residents. G:1RDA\Niamh Ortega\WP Data\Comndttees1PA41Minutes120041020904.doc 4 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2004 Mr. Kosmont reminded attendees that seventeen homes were removed from the on naI plan, and that his development company will be investing more money into the golf course than it is currently worth. He clarified that they are not building a new course, but rather revamping an old one, and that the estimated budget is accurate for the project. Chairman Campbell recounted his recent experience involving the remodeling of another local golf course, and concurred that Mr. Kosmont's estimates are realistic for the relative portion of the project. Mr. Gary Hautz, 77370 Minnesota Avenue, stated that he supports the project, and that he believes that city leaders will make the correct decisions regarding the project. Mr. Drell indjcated that the timeline presented was quite realistic. The project will be before Architectural Review on February 10, 2004, and Planning Commission in March 2004. Each resident situated on the golf course will receive a notice to attend. Then, the project will go before City Council in April for zoning changes. Residents will receive a notice for that meeting also. He informed the committee that it had been explained to the developer that he was required to demonstrate the benefit of the project to the neighborhood. Secondly, if there were certain residents who would bar any undue burden, the developer would be required to mitigate that burden. Ms. Suzanne Tracey, 77020 Utah Circle, stated that she is opposed to the project duke to the fact that her property faces the area where 65 new homes are proposed. She also feels that noise pollution will become an issue at nightt me. Mr. Rudy Reyes, 76995 New York Avenue, stated that his house also faces the area where 65 new homes are proposed. He paid a premium for his lot, and for the view that is available from his home. He expressed concern for oercrowding at existing schools. Mayor Spiegel responded that several schools are in planning and construction stages, and that this issue is being developed. Ms. Lisa Theodoratus, 77040 Utah Circle, voiced her opposition to the project. She stated that the Tots are too small for the size of the homes proposed. She also opposes the idea of a "community within a community". She pointed out her home on the map, and stated that she has a panoramic view of the mountains and four fairways, and does not wish to lose the view that she purchased. Discussion occurred as to the annual watering of the golf course. The Director of Golf from Palm Desert Country Club was present to offer his recollection of the watering schedule. MOTION to end the presentation and discussion made by Member Proulx, seconded by Member Ash, unanimously approved. G:\RDA\Niamh Ortega\WP DatalCommittees\PA4\Minutes12004\020974.doc 5 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES VII. CONTINUED BUSINESS None. VIII. OLD BUSINESS None. FEBRUARy 9, 2004 IX. INFORMATIONAL ITEMS A. UPDATE ON PERFORMANCE OF JOINT IMPROVEMENTS WITH COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT (CVWD) ON THE LAND OWNED BY CVWD ON NORTHWEST CORNER OF FRED WARING DRIVE AND WARNER TRAIL Ms. Aylaian reported that she spoke with CVWD representatives to determine the long-term plan and landscaping potential, and was informed that, at this point, there is no long-term plan in place. The plant has deteriorated and is in need of rehabilitation, and the decision has not been made as to whether to decommission or rehabilitate the plant. CVWD will be interfacing with the roadwork that will be taking place in that area. They are not interested in selling the vacant property or in using their funds to landscape the area. CVWD representatives suggest that staff send them a letter stating the City's request. MOTION made by Member Proulx, seconded by Member Ash, that staff compose and distribute a letter to CVWD stating the City's request to improve the vacant land, unanimously approved. Mr. Greenwood suggested that since a retention basin is being proposed as a possible option for the Warner Trail storm drain overflow, it would be a possibility to use this area as a retention basin, have it landscaped, and have it as open space also. Following much discussion, the preceding MOTION was rescinded by Member Proulx, seconded by Member Ash, and was unanimously adopted. It was the consensus of the Committee to invite Ms. Patricia "Corky" Larsen, CVWD elected official, to attend the next regular Committee meeting. B. UPDATE ON WARNER TRAIL STORM DRAIN INSTALLATION Construction should begin in Summer 2004. A financial agreement with the City of Indian Wells is still to be completed before work can begin. It G:VRDA\Niamh Ortega\WP Data\Committees1PA41Minutes120041020904.doc 6 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES FEBRUARY 9, 2004 is hoped that the undergrounding will be completed before the Miles Bridge opens this summer. C. UPDATE ON FRED WARING WIDENING Construction of the Wamer Trail Storm Drain is expected to precede the Fred Waring widening project. It is hoped that the Storm Drain project will be completed this summer, and the eastern phase of the Fred Waring widening project completed in Summer 2005. Work on the section of Fred Waring from Deep Canyon to Eldorado should be performed this summer, then the California to Washington in Summer 2005, which includes approximately 1.5 miles of sound wall and street lighting. Member Ash pointed out that the group in opposition to the Palm Desert Country Club project is incorrectly stating that taxpayer dollars are funding certain portions of the project, and that some of the undergrounding and widening is part of that project. D. UPDATE ON FREEDOM PARK Mr. Winklepleck stated that the consultant is currently working on construction documents for the plan approved by Council. It is hoped that construction will begin in late summer or early fall of 2004. Southern California Edison and the Desert Sands Unified School District are working together to move an Edison vault that sits where the deceleration lane on westbound Country Club will be built. The Country Club widening project will then take place prior to any work being performed on the park. Public Works is currently obtaining all funding for the median, which should be installed prior to the opening of the school in January 2005. X. REPORTS AND REMARKS A. COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSON/MEMBERS Mr. Ash questioned what the Committee's responsibility is in reference to the Palm Desert Country Club development project. Mayor Spiegel responded that when the project goes before Council, a recommendation from the Committee would be appropriate. It will be added as an agenda item for the next regular meeting. B. STAFF No report. G:\RDA\Niamh Ortega\WP Data\Committees\ PA4\Minutes120041020904.doc 7 CITIZENS' ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR PROJECT AREA NO. 4 MINUTES XI. ADJOURNMENT FEBRUARY 9, 2004 There being no further business, Chairman Campbell adjourned the meeting at 4:45 p.m. The next meeting will be held on Monday, March 15, 2004, at 3:00 p.m. in the Administrative Conference Room. G:IRDA \Niamh Ortega\WP Data\Committees\PA41Minutes120041020904.doc Niamh Ortega, Reccing Secretary 8