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HomeMy WebLinkAboutMinutes Parks & Recreation Commission 11/07/06 CITY OF PALM DESERT �-��--� � � PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 I. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Randy Guyer convened the meeting at 8:30 a.m.�: �� a Y � II. ROLL CALL T ,'��., � w 0 Present: Excused Absent - � Chairman Randy Guyer Vice Chair Julie Munso � Alternate Vice Chair Terry Schukart (Munson on Leave of A s n � Commissioner Phill Babcock � Commissioner Michael Barnard � Commissioner Dan Barnes ` � Commissioner Roger Dash {, '� Commissioner Gerald Dawson � o .� Commissioner David Garcia (Alternate) z � .� Commissioner Connor Limont 3 � � � Staff Present: � '� w Robert Spiegel, Council Member a w •• Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager � � � � � � o Jay Niemcza k, P a r k s M a i n t e n a n c e S u p ervi s or � A Q A � •• A � Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary � y � z �� H H � OH H •� •• � � �+ rl � ar� Hv� �nwHH rn III. APPROVALOFMINUTES Ha � e� wwr� cnx � � da � � °z � � � o A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM OCTOBER 3, 2006 AND OCTOBER 17, 2006 Minutes of Parks and Recreation Commission of October 3, 2006, were approved as submitted. Commissioner Barnes stated that on page 7, paragraph 4, second sentence of the minutes, he refers to the Coachella Valley Recreation and Parks District and not the YMCA. (After reviewing the tapes from said meeting, Commissioner Barnes does refer to the YMCA; therefore, minutes were not changed). Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Schukart and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT (Munson on leave of absence). 1 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Minutes of Parks and Recreation Commission of October 17, 2006, were approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Schukart and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT (Munson on LOA). IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None V. PRESENTATIONS - None VI. NEW BUSINESS A. RECREATION SERVICES RECOMMENDATION Discussion and recommendation to initiate the detachment process from the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District (CVRPD). Ms. Steele stated that she invited Mr. George Spiliotis, Executive Officer for the Riverside Local Agency Formation Commission (LAFCO), to explain the process or answer questions on the detachment from the CVRPD. She briefly communicated that Staff was asked to review and provide information on the City's recreational services. In the past year, Staff hired a consultant to develop and provide a statistically valid citizen's survey to assist in better understanding Palm Desert citizens' attitudes, interests, priorities, and support for parks and recreation services. The survey also was intended to be a key component of the City's strategic planning process. Ms. Steele also communicated that Staff was directed by the City Council to hire a consultant to develop a business plan that would help to determine the cost to start up and operation of a City run parks and recreation department. She noted that a copy of a memorandum from the City Attorney to the City Manager regarding the process of detachment is included in the agenda packet. Ms. Steele suggested that the Commission first let Mr. Spiliotis speak on the detachment process before making a recommendation. Mr. Spiliotis explained that LAFCO is a Local Agency Formation Commission that is essentially a boundary setting commission with the jurisdiction being Riverside County. He stated that the Commission consists of seven members who represent all levels of local government. They are: two County Supervisors selected by the Board of Supervisors; two city council representatives selected by the City Selection Committee within Riverside County; two special district board members selected by the Special District Selection Committee; and one public member selected by the other members of the commission. He stated, in terms of the process, if the City decides to initiate the detachment from the CVRPD, the detachment works in the same way as an annexation. The initiation could be started by registered voters or by an agency and an application 2 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DetalParksBReclMinutes12006 Minu(esN7J-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSlON MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 must be submitted. He stated that the heart of any application is the plan of services. In the City's case, it would require exactly how the services would be taken over by the City, which is financing services, what facilities would be available, any plans to add new facilities, etc. Mr. Spiliotis gave the Commission a copy of excerpts of the LAFCO Policies and Procedures. He pointed out policy 2.1.2 of the excerpt. Where special district boundaries overlap city territory, LAFCO will support district detachments if the city provides similar services to the district and can demonstrate one of the following conditions is met: a. The subject city provides a higher level of service. b. The subject city provides equivalent service levels at a lower cost. LAFCO shall also consider the impact of detachment on the ability of the district to provide services to the remainder of its service area. Mr. Spiliotis expressed that the policy was developed after a similar proposal by LAFCO in the early 1990's. He referred to the City of Lake Elsinore (western part of the county) that applied for a detachment for all of its corporate territory from the Ortega Trail Recreation and Park District. He commented that he does not know all the details to Palm Desert's circumstances. In the case of Lake Elsinore and Ortega Trail, the district was providing very limited recreational services within the City, and did not own any facilities other than its headquarters building. The district had been around for approximately 40 years and had been collecting taxes for 40 years, which provided very limited services. The City of Lake Elsinore, over the years, had been developing its own recreation programs. The City continued to work with the district to some extent; however, the City felt they could do things more efficiently and wanted to retain the property tax revenues within the City to completely run the recreational programs. Mr. Spiliotis stated that the LAFCO commission considered the City's application. The commission did not consider to a great extent the impact of the district being able to carry out its function in the remainder of their service area. He recalls the City of Lake Elsinore was a huge part of the districYs service area, it had approximately 80% territory of the district and about 70% of the property tax revenue generated to the district was from within the City. He explained that concurrently with the detachment proposal, which may be one of the reasons the commission approved the proposal, the district also had an annexation proposal to annex a large unincorporated community that was in need of recreational services and 3 G:1DevServiceslMonrca Lo�edolWord DatalPa�ksBReclMinutes12006 MinutesN f-7-O6.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 assessment proposal to carry on recreation services. The commission's thinking at the time was that benefit assessment was pre-Proposition 218 that would eventually take the loss of property tax revenue. However over time and after Proposition 218, the district had two assessment measures fail. Eventually the district had insufficient revenues to carry out any services, and in 1999 the district filed for dissolution after limping along for several years. Mr. Spiliotis stated that the policy was devetoped two to three years after the initial detachment of Ortega Trails District. He commented that he could not speak on what the City of Palm Desert is considering, he does not know the details, and would not want to pre- judge any application the LAFCO Commission may receive. He commented that he did want to give the Parks and Recreation Commission the background on the City of Lake Elsinore and Ortega Trails District, and that a significant issue that they would look at would be the impact on the district and the ability to carry out its mission. Another policy the Mr. Spiliotis pointed out was 2.3.6: LAFCO shall encourage districts with significant territory within a city's sphere of influence to develop plans, in conjunction with the city, for the orderly detachment of territory from the district or merger/dissolution of the district as district territory is annexed to the city. This strategy is applicable only where the subject city provides similar services to the district and can demonstrate one of the following conditions is met: 1) The subject cify provides higher levels of service; 2) The subject city provides equivalent service levels at a lower cost. Any plans anticipating detachment shall consider the impact of detachment on the ability of the disfrict to provide services to the remainder of its service area. He commented that one of LAFCO's goals is for agencies to work together, and plan toward what perhaps might be ultimately the City taking over that function. He asked if anyone had any questions. Councilman Spiegel asked when the Ortega Trails District dissolved itself, what were the effects of the other areas where they provided service. Mr. Spiliotis responded that the problem was the district continued to have denial from the voters for assessments to carry out the functions of the district, specifically from unincorporated areas. The residents were unwilling to financially support the operations of the district. He mentioned that the property tax revenue that the district had left after the detachment was less than $100,000 a year, which was not enough to do anything. 4 GIDevServiceslMonica�oredolWord DatalParksBRecV�tinu�es12006 Minutesl71-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Councilman Spiegel asked what the population was during the detachment. Mr. Spiliotis responded that today the Wildomar and surrounding areas has a population of approximately 30,000 to 35,000 people. In the 1990's, the population was closer to 20,000 to 25,000 people. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart asked Mr. Spiliotis, if a city should submit a proposal to LAFCO and LAFCO makes a recommendation that the city doe not like, what is the next step in the process. Mr. Spiliotis responded that in the excerpt that he distributed, he added a copy of the flow chart indicating how the process and proceedings take place. He added that as far as time goes due to workload, it is taking LAFCO staff four to five months for a proposal to be completed before going to the commission at a public hearing. If the commission approves the proposal for detachment, there will be a requirement for a protest hearing. The protest hearing is handled by the LAFCO office and does not go back to the commission. The outcome of the protest proceedings is based solely on the level of written protests that LAFCO receives during the protest period. That is protests received that are less than 25% of registered voters within the detachment area, which would be the city. It would then be a matter of paperwork to complete the detachment. If there is between 25 and 50% written protests, the city would be required to hold an election, and a simple majority would determine the outcome of the detachment. He continued to explain that if LAFCO were to receive written protests from a majority of the register voters in the detachment area, the detachment would be terminated and there would be no need to go to an election. He stated that once LAFCO takes control, the city couldn't withdraw the application. He added that the district itself does not have veto authority, and is in the hands of LAFCO. Commissioner Dash indicated that Mr. Spiliotis stated the City has to be cautious about three things. He asked Mr. Spiliotis if he could advise the City in those areas in preparing the application. He responded that he does not know enough about the particulars of Palm Desert's case. Mr. Spiliotis commented that LAFCO's concern would be the ability of the district to carry out its mission. Alt. Commissioner Garcia asked before the new Act was in place, were there similar situations and how were they handled. Mr. Spiliotis responded that the Act was rewritten and renamed in the year 2000. In one form or another LAFCO and its legislation has been around since 1964. There was a major rewrite in 1985 and the 2000 rewrite was just renamed. Commissioner Garcia asked if the procedure is more streamlined. Mr. Spiliotis replied that the procedures have not changed much between now and the 80's and 90's. 5 GIDevServiceslMonica LoredolWorcJ DatalParksBReclMinutes12006 Minufes�llJ-06.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Commissioner Guyer stated the policy 2.1.2 states that one of the conditions has to be met. For example, if the City met part (A) or part (B), would LAFCO still look at the impact of the District? Mr. Spiliotis replied yes. Councilman Spiegel asked Mr. Spiliotis, after the decision is made by LAFCO and there has been a protest proceeding, does either party have any recourse. He responded that after the commission has made their decision, there is a 30-day reconsideration period. Councilman Spiegel asked if there has ever been any litigation. Mr. Spiliotis responded yes. Mr. Spiliotis mentioned that as part of the process, there has to be a property tax exchange agreement between the agencies. He noted that the City would negotiate on the City's behalf and the board of supervisors would negotiate on behalf of the district. Councilman Spiegel asked if there has to be an agreement on Redevelopment dollars. Mr. Spiliotis replied monies from Redevelopment would not be impacted. Commissioner Babcock asked Mr. Spiliotis if he knows of other cities that have detached and if they succeeded. He responded that the only detachment from a recreation and park district that he recalls in the past 15 years is the City of Lake Elsinore. Alt. Commissioner Garcia asked Mr. Spiliotis if LAFCO also handles all of the CEQA questions. He responded that LAFCO is not the leading agency for CEQA. In litigation, LAFCO is usually the plaintiff. Commissioner Barnard asked Mr. Spiliotis how LAFCO is going to review the impact on the district. Is an audit done or is there a review of their programs? He responded that they would probably look at their level of revenue that the district receives from the City, what would be loss based on the negotiated property tax exchange, and loss of service responsibility. Commissioner Barnard asked if they would look at the district's audit. Mr. Spiliotis responded that they would not do an audit, but probably look at their budget. Chairman Guyer asked what would happen if LAFCO is not able to determine the impact. Mr. Spiliotis responded that they woufd fook at the numbers. The service costs that will no longer be the responsibility of the district would be a little fuzzier. Ms. Steele announced that Mr. Ortega, City Manager, had arrived. She asked Mr. Ortega if he had any comments. Mr. Ortega responded only if the Commission had any questions for him. He commented that Mr. s G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord Data�ParksBReclMinutes12006 Minutes117-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Spiliotis was invited because he is Mr. LAFCO. He has been with the agency for many years. Councilman Spiegel commented the LAFCO does not only look at park districts. They also look at land acquisitions by cities. Mr. Spiliotis added that a good portion of LAFCO's job is special districts. Chairman Guyer asked the Commission if they had more discussion concerning the detachment. The Commission needs to decide on a recommendation to the City Council. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart asked if the proposal would initiate work done by the Commission to generate information for LAFCO, generate substantive issues around service, funding, etc. Would the Commission be working with City Staff to draw up the report? Mr. Ortega replied that was correct. He asked the Commission if they received a copy of the City Attorney's recommendation. Ms. Steele responded that a copy was given to the Commission. Mr. Ortega stated that the application would take a while to prepare, if it is the Commission's recommendation to the City Council. Commissioner Barnes communicated that he sees the detachment as a divorce action between the City of Palm Desert and the CVRPD. As a Commission, they could recommend such a divorce proceeding take place and leave it up to the City Council and the City Attorney to work out the details. The Commission is just the children involved in the divorce action. He stated that the Commission knows what they want to do, as far as what is best for the City in the way of parks and recreation. Commissioner Dawson clarified that the Commission recommends to the City Council that the detachment takes place, and if the City Council agrees, the City Council would then return to the Commission and Staff to work on the documentation. Ms. Steele responded that the City Council would continue to work with the business plan consultant to finalize the business services plan and assist in the implementation of the plan. Commissioner Dawson stated that the Commission would be overstepping their responsibility to do much more work until the Council approves the recommendation. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart responded that the Council would have to base their decision on something other than the Commission recommending the detachment. If he were the City Council, he would ask, based on what? He stated that they would have to generate a white paper so that the Council could read and have something to base their thumbs up or down. 7 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DetalParksBReclMinutes12006 Minuteslif-7-O6.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Councilman Spiegel interjected that the City Council has sat down for two presentations. One presentation was on the assessment of what citizens' of Palm Desert want, and the second was the assessment on whether or not it would be practical for the City to create its own recreation district. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart asked Councilman Spiegel if the Council have received the data they need to make a decision. He replied yes. Commissioner Barnes added that the reports were very good in order for the Commission to make their own determination. Councilman Spiegel stated that the City Council is waiting to hear from the Commission on what direction they would fike to go. Alt. Commissioner Garcia asked what are the advantages or disadvantages of going through the divorce proceedings as Commissioner Barnes referred to the detachment. Commissioner Dash added that he was going to ask the same question, and if Staff have provided a recommendation on the advantages and disadvantages. Commissioner Limont replied that it is in the staff report. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that during this past summer, the CVRPD at the Palm Desert Civic Center made the decision to not have a summer camp. It was the CVRPD's decision and the City had no input. He noted that the YMCA helped by adding more summer camps. He stated that is a decision the City is not involved in now and maybe it was the right decision, he does not know; the City had no input. Mr. Ortega asked the Commission if they recommend that the City Council in essence authorize Staff to put together all the documentation, application, business plan, and recreation plan. If the answer is yes, then the Council will ask Staff to do that and it would come back to the Commission. He referred to the term "divorce" and the parent that wants the divorce have to prepare a plan on how the family is going to survive. In this case, the children get to participate in that plan, which is the Commission. Chairman Guyer commented that he does not see it as a separation. He sees it more as a fork in the road. The City has worked with the district for many years, does the City want to continue to grow with the district or detach in a direction where the City does not have their help. Commissioner Barnes felt that the growth has ended as far as taking care of the needs of the City. s C'i tiDevServicesllVtonica Loredo�Worcl DatalParks8ReclMinutes12006 Minuteslt t-7-06.min doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Ms. Steele stated that contracted services should be used where appropriate or mutual benefit exists. The City could still work with the district if they want to work with the City. Mr. Kevin Kalman, CVRPD, asked Mr. Spiliotis if the City detaches from the district and are no longer in the sphere of influence, the district could not contract services in the City. He responded that there are laws in the books regarding contracts for extra territorial services that would limit LAFCO's ability to authorize those extra territorial services if it is not within the sphere of influence. He commented that the City could detach, but not remove the City from the sphere of influence. Chairman Guyer reconfirmed with Mr. Kalman that if they are no longer the primary service provider, would they still be willing to provide services. He responded that the district is absolutely willing to continue to partner with the City, which has been their intent. He feels that there needs to be discussion to take place in order to move forward. He mentioned that he has met with Staff back in May or June to discuss the current service agreement and the agreement was going to be re-drafted, which has not happened and does not know if it will happen. Commissioner Limont stated that her observation is that when you look at the City of Palm Desert in relation to the entire valley on how many parks, facilities, and how to run the facilities, she suggested that the Commission go along with Staff recommending to initiate the detachment process from the CVRPD and send to the Council. She commented that the results from the assessment survey had a tremendous amount of information, and from a City standpoint it would make sense for the City to run its own parks and recreation. Commissioner Barnes stated that whether the City or the district run the recreation services, the facilities would need to be improved in order to take care of the needs of the City. Commissioner Dawson asked Mr. Spiliotis to clarify if it would be a good idea for the City to submit the detachment application after having worked with the district to come up with a mutually agreeable plan and build a detachment plan with as much coordination as possible with the district. Mr. Spiliotis responded that is always the preference. He also commented that he recalls another detachment, but was not as drastic as the City of Lake Elsinore. It involved the City of Banning detaching a remaining portion of the city that had been in Beaumont Recreation Park District. There was a negotiation on the property tax exchange. Chairman Guyer asked what year did the detachment occur. Mr. Spiliotis replied that it was in the mid 1990's. 9 G�OevServiceslMonice LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12006 Minutes411-7-06 min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Commissioner Dawson asked if would be legal for the City contract services from the district after the detachment if the City was not in their sphere of influence. Mr. Spiliotis responded that detachment from the service area does not necessarily mean that the City has to be removed from the sphere of influence. He suggested that the City speak to the City Attorney, and it may be beneficial to have a contractual agreement before the detachment occurs. Commissioner Dash moved for City Staff to recommend to the City Council to initiate the detachment process from the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District. Commissioner Limont seconded the motion and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT. The Commission thanked Mr. Spiliotis. Mr. Homer Croy, ACM for Development Services, interjected that a motion has to be made on the second recommendation to continue to work with GreenPlay. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart moved for City Staff to recommend to the City Council to continue to consult with GreenPlay to finalize the business services recreation plan. Commissioner Limont seconded the motion and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT. Chairman Guyer stated that the business plan has been done, why is Staff going to continue to work with GreenPlay. Ms. Steele responded that the consultant would work on a strategic plan to formalize the detachment process to work towards an implementation plan, if the initiation of the detachment process is approved by the City Council. Chairman Guyer asked the secretary to read the motion again. The secretary replied, "Staff recommends continuing to work with GreenPlay to finalize the business services recreation plan." Chairman Guyer asked why Staff should pursue to have plan done and not wait until is going to detach or not. Ms. Steele responded that there would be two recommendations going to the City Council, and that to file a detachment application, there must be a recreation services plan. Change made to motion: Alt. Vice Chair Schukart moved for City Staff to recommend to the City Council to continue to consult with GreenPlay to assist in developing a detailed strategic plan to formalize the detachment process and develop a City directed parks and recreation �o G'IDevServiceslMonica La�edolWord DetalPerksBReclMinufes12006 Minutes111-7-06.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 department. Commissioner Limont seconded the motion and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT. B. TRAILS INFORMATION Discussion and provide Staff with direction on trails information. Ms. Steele reported that there have been numerous meetings where the Commission has discussed trails and what is happening in the valley. She commented that the Planning Department is working on trail development within the City of Palm Desert. She noted that the City Council has set some money aside for trails on the north side of the City. Ms. Steele stated that she recently received information from Mr. LeGrand Velez, Executive Director from a nonprofit organization called Coachella Valley Community Trails Alliance. Chairman Guyer asked if the Alliance is a private group. Ms. Steele responded that it is newly formed nonprofit organization. Ms. Steele commented that she could continue providing information and share any updates with the Commission, if that is something that Commission would like. Commissioner Barnes noted that the organization seems to have the same objectives as the City. It would be a benefit for the City to work with the organization. Ms. Steele stated that she could request for Mr. Velez to make a presentation to the Commission. Chairman Guyer stated that he did not understand what the organization means by paved off-street trails. Ms. Steele replied that she believes that they are referring to the washes. Mr. Kalman added that there are a number of opportunities being explored with private developers on the eastern portion of the valley that is currently being developed. He also mentioned that the district and the county are looking at a valley-wide system that would include Palm Desert. He stated that their board approved for the district to be the lead agency to work with the county on the trail system. Chairman Guyer asked Mr. Kalman if they are trying to connect the trails. He replied that they are trying to connect the valley. 11 G:1DevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks8ReclMinutes12006 Miwtes171-7-06.miadoc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Commissioner Barnes indicated that in order for it to be worthwhile, the trails should be paved so the bicyclists could use the trails too. The objective is to have the trail go from Indio to Palm Springs. Councilman Spiegel commented that it would be a good idea to invite Mr. Velez to a Commission meeting. Commissioner Babcock stated that the trails have been talked about for many years, and the only city that has trails is Palm Desert. He feels that if the Commission gets involved with other organizations that have good ideas, but feels that somehow there would be no results. Chairman Guyer responded with this organization might get results somewhere else. Commissioner Barnes stated that Mr. Croy is working on the maps of the trails. He feels that the City has done a good job providing nice areas to walk in. Commissioner Limont asked if the maps that were given to the Commission several months ago are being updated. Ms. Steele responded that they are being updated. Mr. Croy announced that City Staff has an ad-hoc Wayfinding Committee. The committee is looking at all the maps and trails. They are trying to find ways for people to find us easier. The group is dedicated to updating the whole system. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart moved for City Staff to invite Mr. Velez, Executive Director from the Coachella Valley Community Trails Alliance, for a presentation to the Parks and Recreation Commission with a description of their group, direction, and goals. Commissioner Limont seconded the motion and carried by a 9-0 vote with Vice Chair Munson ABSENT. VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. DOG PARK ISSUES Discussion and provide Staff with direction on dog park issues Ms. Steele reported that at the last couple of ineetings there have been a couple of people that addressed the Commission concerning issues in the dog park. She informed the Commission that Mr. Niemczak and she got together and investigated some items and made some recommendations. She noted that at the last meeting Staff recommended narrowing the openings on the fencing that separates the small and large dog park. Staff was asked to look at a wire mesh. After Staff looked at the mesh, they felt 12 G:10evServiceslMonica LoredolWord DetaWaAcsBReclMinutes12006 Minutes117J-06.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 it would ruin the fa�ade at the dog park. Mr. Niemczak interjected that he had concern that the dog would cut their paws on the wire. Chairman Guyer added that there was also an issue with the visibility, if a mesh were to be installed. Chairman Guyer asked if low growing bushes could be planted. Mr. Niemczak responded that there is concrete along the fence. Commissioner Limont felt that the Commission is moving in the wrong direction. She stated that the dog owners are not controlling their dogs. There are people that are complaining and are not residents of Palm Desert, and feels that they should fall down to the bottom of the priority pile. Commissioner Limont stated that dog owners have to be responsible for their dogs. She asserted that the City cannot react to every complaint from non-citizens of Palm Desert using the dog park. Ms. Steele indicated that Staff is not recommending doing anything, unless directed by the Commission. Commissioner Babcock agreed with Commissioner Limont. He commented that he has been on the Commission for a long time, and there have always been complaints on the dog park operation. Changes are made to the dog park due to the complaints, and the dog owners still complain. Commissioner Dawson asked Staff to clarify recommendation No. 2 of the staff report. Mr. Niemczak recommended raising the level of the bars on the fence that separates both dog parks. It would prevent the small dogs from standing up and putting their heads through the larger bars. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart asked Mr. Niemczak if raising the bars is easy to do. He replied yes, they could easily be welded on. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart commented that he would be interested to know how much money has been invested into the dog park in the past five years. Commissioner Barnes asked Mr. Niemczak how much it would cost to replace the fence with one that has the bars closer together. Mr. Niemczak responded it would cost approximately $2,000 to $3,000. Commissioner Barnes requested to see some pictures of fences that have bars close together. Mr. Niemczak replied that he would. 13 G'iDevServicesUNonica LoredolWord DatalParksBRecVNinutes12006 Minutesl f f-7-O6.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Chairman Guyer stated that the Commission is recommending for City Staff not do anything, except to bring pictures of what the fence would look like if it were to be extended a little higher. Ms. Steele stated that the no smoking signs were mentioned at one of the Commission meetings. Chairman Guyer asked where the designated smoking area in the park is. Ms. Steele responded that there is no area designated for smokers. It was commented that no smoking is mentioned on sign that displays the rules for the dog park, and a "No Smoking Sign" should not be installed. VIII. REPORTS AND UPDATES A. CVRPD PROPOSED ASSESSMENT DISTRICT Ms. Steele reported that she provided the Commission with information from CVRPD on their proposed assessment district. She asked the Commission if they had any questions. Chairman Guyer stated that on page 54 of the agenda packet, the CVRPD board meeting minutes, Mr. Ford said, "monies will be collected and expended in the same general area. This is tied more to the master plan and is site specific." Mr. Kalman responded that the proposed new assessment would be for funding for facilities identified in the CVRPD master plan. Chairman Guyer asked Mr. Kalman what are the facilities identified in the master plan. He responded the facilities would be a sports complex located in the eastern part of the valley (Mecca), a community center in the Bermuda Dunes/Indio area, and an aquatic complex in the north Palm Desert area. Chairman Guyer stated that on page 55 of the agenda packet, the City asked what facilities/projects would be funded. The district responded, "CVRPD facilities with district-wide benefit will be funded." He asked Mr. Kalman if the funding would be restricted to the three facilities that he mentioned earlier. He answered that is what it is currently being reviewed. Mr. Kalman commented on how much Palm Desert residents are paying on the current assessment. He indicated that Palm Desert residents are receiving the same benefit as Indio residents, but Indio is paying a higher assessment. 14 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DafalParks&ReclMinutesl2006 Miwfeslt t-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Commissioner Barnes stated that he wanted to make sure he heard Mr. Kalman correctly. He asked Mr. Kalman if they are planning to build an aquatic center on the north side of Palm Desert. He answered yes. The master plan identified a need there, which includes a small piece of Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert, and Thousand Palms. Commissioner Barnes expressed that he finds that information very disturbing. He does not understand why there would be two aquatic centers in a radius of no more than five or six miles. Chairman Guyer added that the YMCA is looking at building an aquatic center in Rancho Mirage. Commissioner Barnes stated that there would be one aquatic center for every ten people in the valley. B. NORTH SIDE (NEW) PARK COMMITTEE UPDATE Commissioner Barnard informed the Commission that the North Side Park Committee had their first meeting on Monday, November 6. He stated that the boundaries are Portola, Dinah Shore, Gerald Ford, and the railroad tracks. He indicated that Dinah Shore is going to intersect at Portola and would probably be the main entrance. It then goes out to the railroad tracks on the north, and south by Gerald Ford. There is 26 acres of parkland with 10 acres adjacent to the 26 acres for affordable housing. He reported that the Committee had a brainstorming session on what should be included in the park. They focused on the results from the survey. The Committee is looking at a major indoor recreational center, along with what would be incorporated into the center. The Committee also looked at hiking trails and sports fields (baseball and football). He indicated that the Committee would be meeting again in two weeks, and Ms. Steele was going to provide the Committee with more information on some indoor centers from the Midwest. He felt that they had a very good meeting with good ideas. Chairman Guyer asked if the Committee discussed the ice skating rink. Commissioner Barnard responded that they did mention an ice rink. Councilman Spiegel asked Ms. Steele if she had any information from the Ontario ice rink group. Ms. Steele informed the Commission that she has not spoken to the group, but has learned that the group is planning to build an ice rink in Indio. She noted that she has spoken to the other two groups and they are still interested. She indicated that she does have a meeting scheduled with Mr. Dave Ison, City of Indio, and would get more information from him. 15 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DafaWarksBReclMinutes12006 Minufesl11-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Councilman Spiegel mentioned that the reason the group is going to Indio is because the electricity is so much cheaper. Ms. Steele stated that the group from Ontario was not interested in leasing the land. They wanted the City to give them the fand, and the City was not interested in giving land away. She explained that Staff had waited for the results from the survey to find out if a facility was needed, and if there was a need, what are the residents looking for in an ice rink. Chairman Guyer commented that the Committee is going more in a direction towards an activity center, as opposed to a park that the City usually builds. Commissioner Barnes asked if the Committee addressed or designated any numbers to baseball and soccer fields, tennis and basketball courts, dog park, etc. Commissioner Barnard responded that they did address it, but that they also looked at where those activities where already being offered. He noted that they are looking at all of those activities. Ms. Steefe added that the survey results show that soccer needs are being met; the Committee looked at designating a field to football. She reminded the Commission that near the north side park is the University Park area, which would include three neighborhood parks and a large dog park. The Committee is looking at supplementing what does not already exist. Commissioner Barnes asked Ms. Steele, based on her experience, how many acres would be needed for a decent community center. She responded that it all depends on what is going to be in the center. She stated minimally seven or eight acres. Chairman Guyer commented that the Committee still has to look at how the affordable housing is going to be configured into the park, and then they would be left with the footprint. Commissioner Barnes asked if the affardable housing was part of the 26 acres. Chairman Guyer replied that it is part of the 36 acres. Commissioner Barnes stated that he has been on the Commission for many years, and they have never accepted football in the City of Palm Desert because it was considered a dangerous sport. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart mentioned that the flag football league for youngsters is gaining a lot of momentum. There are a large section of Palm Desert kids who want to engage in this type of activity. 16 G:IDevServicesUUonica LoredolWord DatalPerksBReclMinufes12006 Minutes117-7-06.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Chairman Guyer suggested for Commissioner Barnes take a look at the basketball players on the court. They seem to be more violent than the kids playing flag football. Ms. Steele noted that flag football is currently happening in the park. They just do not have a designated area. Alt. Commissioner Garcia commented that back in the days when he played, no contact was allowed. He asked if the rules were still the same. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart responded that kids have gotten more savvy, stronger, and faster. The have rules have mitigated a little to take that into consideration. Commissioner Barnes asked to clarify if they are talking about flag or tackle football. Alt. Vice Chair Schukart responded that there are two large leagues in Palm Desert. One league is flag football and the other is tackle football. The kids do put equipment on for tackle football. Commissioner Barnes noted that he has no objection to flag football. C. DISC GOLF UPDATE Ms. Steele reported that the disc golf group has organized a disc golf event on Sunday night when there is no soccer. Councilman Spiegel asked how many people. Ms. Steele replied approximately 20 people. Ms. Steele stated that the group is working on organizing a tournament on February 3, 2007. She mentioned that Staff has printed out more scorecards with the map on the opposite side. The cards would be located at the Marriott Desert Springs, Visitor Center, the YMCA, and Community Center. Ms. Steele also mentioned that the Visitor Center is selling the discs with the Palm Desert logo. Commissioner Barnes commented that the discs are sold at the pet shop. Chairman Guyer replied that the discs are not the same. Commissioner Barnes stated that since the Commission is discussing disc golf at the Soccer Park, he asked Staff if they had any information on the vandalism that occurred there. Ms. Steele responded that the Soccer Park was paint balled during one evening. There was someone from the apartment complex that saw what was happening and called the police. The police was able to get to the Soccer Park while it was still going on, and they were able to apprehend three of the four suspects. The suspects 17 G:IDevServiceslMonica loredolWord DefelPerksBReclMiwtesl2006 Minutes111-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATfON COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 are going to be prosecuted and try to recover the City costs to repair and cleanup the damage. She mentioned that she heard from the disc golf group that the suspects are not the same people that have paint balled the Soccer Park before so the police will continue to patrol the area. Commissioner Barnes asked if there was much damage. Ms. Steele responded it cost $2,000 to $3,000 to cleanup. D. FREEDOM PARK UPDATE Mr. Niemczak gave an update on the progress of Freedom Park. A list of tasks was provided on page 61 of the agenda packet. He indicated that Staff would be going to City Council for approval of three change orders: 1} for the installation of an additional ball field; 2) for the installation of shade structures for the bleacher and dug out areas; and 3) for the installation of water and sewer service. He explained that Staff anticipated that the cost to install the water line was going to be $100,000 to $120,000, but when the cost notification from the water district arrived, the total cost was near half a million dollars. Chairman Guyer asked how Staff could be so far off on the cost. Mr. Niemczak responded that Staff contacted the Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) to explain the difference. He pointed out the two items that were highlighted on page 63 of the agenda packet. He continued to explain that the CVWD Board approved the amounts in September at their meeting. CVWD is projecting what the cost is going to be to support water service at Freedom Park in the future. Mr. Niemczak stated that Staff is in the process of getting a copy of the resolution and meeting with the City Attorney to find out if the water district could actually do that. Meanwhile, the City has to pay the invoice in order to continue construction. Alt. Commissioner Garcia asked to clarify imported water charge stated on the invoice. Mr. Croy responded that it is water brought in from the outside. Ms. Steele announced that the State has some grant money that could be used towards Freedom Park in the amount of $760,000. She hopes it would offset some of the additional costs. She noted that it would require filling out many applications, but would be well worth it. Commissioner Barnes asked if there is still going to be a shortage of fields due to the school districts renovations. He asked again if fields could be installed at the north side park right away before waiting for the whole park to be built all together. Chairman Guyer interjected that the there is no 18 G�IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWoM DatalParksBReclMinutes12006 MiwtesNl-7-O6.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 road to the park. Ms. Steele added that Staff is working with the Public Works Department. She explained that there are some timelines that they need to follow. E. PARK INSPECTIONS Ms. Steele reminded the Commission to send her the park inspection sheets. IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Councilman Spiegel announced that on December 17, 2006, Alt. Commissioner Garcia would be the host and M.C. for the 12'h Annual Pegasus Writers' Academy Luncheon Fundraiser. He also announced that Mr. Garcia has received 14 Emmy Awards, he was a former ABC White House correspondent, and is the host creator of Go West on Channel 10. Councilman Spiegel congratulated Mr. Garcia. He mentioned that the luncheon is going to be held at the Doral Princess in Palm Springs, if anyone is interested in attending. The cost for the lunch is $80. Ms. Steele commented that she was going to forward an e-mail from the Piranha Swim Club. The e-mail has some good information of what the swim club is doing and what is going on in the area. Mr. Croy mentioned that the Landscape and Park Staff are working on redesigning the area outside of the Council Chamber. The theme that they are moving towards is the Sister Cities approach. One side if the quad would be dedicated to Gisbourne, New Zealand and the opposite side would be dedicated to Ixtapa Zihatanejo. He stated that there will be a tree ceremony on Wednesday, November 8. He noted that the design would probably go through the Parks and Recreation Commission before going to the City Council for approval. Ms. Steele reported that Commissioner Dawson has done a lot work on the plaques for the Freedom Park kiosks. A handout was circulated to the Commissioners. Commissioner Dawson explained that he attempted to come up with topics that the Commission might want to consider for the kiosks. He noted that the size of the plaques is not very big. Ms. Steele stated that she spoke with Mayor Ferguson, and he asked that the Commission move forward and bring him a proposal. 19 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DataWarksBReclMinutes12006 MinutesNl-7-O6.min.Aoc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES NOVEMBER 7, 2006 Chairman Guyer requested that the plaque information is added to the next meeting agenda. He also requested that the Commissioners come up with their own ideas. Commissioner Barnes commented that he handed out booklets on the U.S. Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. He recommends that when the City commemorates Freedom Park, the City Council approve buying a booklet for each high school student. He noted that the booklet costs about $1.00. Commissioner Limont announced that her neighbor has River Dance tickets available in case anyone is interested. Her neighbor is unable to attend. Ms. Steele announced that there is a concert scheduled in the park on Friday, November 10, for Veteran's Day. She also commented that the Turtles concert the previous week was a good show. Alt. Commissioner Garcia thanked the City Council for the Committee/Commission award. X. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by Alt. Vice Chair Schukart, seconded by Commissioner Limont, and unanimous vote of the Commission, Chairman Guyer adjourned the meeting at 10:35 a.m. . � Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary 20 G�IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWo�d DatelParks6ReclMinutes12006 Minutes111-7-O6.min.doc