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HomeMy WebLinkAboutPARKS & REC CMSN - 04/03/07 .�' �-- ,� CITY OF PALM DESERT �'•'� PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION � � MINUTES '� , . APRIL 3, 2007 I. CALL TO ORDER Chair Randy Guyer convened the meeting at 8:36 a.m. II. ROLL CALL Present: Excused Absence Chair Randy Guyer Commissioner Julie Munson Commissioner Babcock (Munson on Leave of Absence) Commissioner Michael Barnard Commissioner Daniel Barnes Absent Commissioner Roger Dash Vice Chairman Terry Schukart Commissioner Gerald Dawson Commissioner David Garcia Staff Present: Robert Spiegel, Councilmember Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager Jay Niemczak, Parks Maintenance Supervisor Angelica Chavez, Office Assistant III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM MARCH 6, 2007 AND MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM MARCH 20, 2007 Commissioner Barnes requested to amend page 10 of the minutes of March 6, 2007, to indicate that he is in favor of the pool at College of the Desert, and further clarified that he likes the idea of the pool, just not the way it is set up. He does not believe it is a good place for the kind of a pool the people of the City want. He is concerned with the location. Mr. Rob Ballew clarified that when he was asked how much it costs to run the La Quinta Pool, he did not give an amount of $100,000; he said it is difficult to compare apples to apples. 1 PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2407 The tapes of the March 6, 2007, Parks & Recreation Commission meeting state that Mr. Ballew indicated that the La Quinta pool is losing under $100,000, and said that it would be difficult to compare apples to apples. Amended minutes of the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting from March 6, 2007, were approved. Motion movedlseconded by Dawson/Babcock and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioners Schukart and Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) Minutes of the Parks & Recreation Commission meeting from March 20, 2007, were approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Barnard and carried by a 7-0 vote with Commissioners Schukart and Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Rob Ballew invited the Commission to the YMCA Annual Easter Egg Hunt in the Civic Center Park with 500 children expected to attend; the following Saturday the YMCA is holding the Healthy Kids Day and the City is a sponsor. This free event is open to everyone in the valley to learn about healthier lifestyles. There will be a lot of activities and groups attending. It is expected to be a big day from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. V. PRESENTATIONS - None VI. NEW BUSINESS A. ART OF FOOD AND WINE CONCERT Discussion and recommendation on KemperSports request for the use of the Civic Center Park on November 9, 2007; right to sell and provide alcohol; right to use the park for a ticketed event; and delay the over-seeding of the park. Ms. Sheila Gilligan, Assistant City Manager for Community Services, provided the Commission with a background overview of the Art of Food and Wine Festival. She indicated that the City contracted with the same company that oversees Desert Willow, KemperSports Management, to organize and produce the Art of Food and Wine event for a second year. She noted that the Marriott produced it last year with some City involvement and City funding. From the City's perspective, this could be an annual, high-value event that would bring people to the City, increase sales tax and Transient Occupancy Tax (TOT). She indicated that the dates for this year are November 9, 10, and 11, and that there are a lot of events planned already. One of the events last year was a concert at Desert Willow, which was sold out. 2 G.IDevService5lMonica LoredolWord OatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minutes14-3-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Ms. Gilligan indicated that this year Desert Willow could not be the venue for the concert, and that the McCallum Theatre was considered as a second location, but it is also booked for that date. She added that the Civic Center Park is an ideal venue for this type of event, but a similar event has not been done before in the park. She asked the Commission if they would allow the concert to be held at the Park. Ms. Gilligan indicated that the producers have not tied down the entertainment yet. They plan to have an area in front of the amphitheater that would be gated off for VIP ticket holders where there will be food, wine, and all kinds of activities tying into the culinary aspects of the event. The rest of the park would be open for people to come in and listen to the concert. This is to be a community City-sponsored event. She said that The McCallum Theatre would also be a great place to have it because they have an outside grass area and the lobby. Ms. Gilligan indicated that she met with Ted Giatas, the President of the McCallum, and he would be willing to hold this event in future years. Ms. Steele mentioned that approval of the recommendation would entail authorizing the use of the Civic Center Park for the concert, the right to sell and provide alcohol, the use of the park for a ticketed event, and authorize the scheduling of the over-seeding of the park for a later date. Ms. Steele pointed out that the over-seeding was done later this year due to some concerts in the park, which resulted in the park not looking quite as nice for the rest of the year. Commissioner Barnes asked who benefits monetarily from this event. Ms. Gilligan answered that profits from this event will go into a trust fund to help generate funding for the event next year. She indicated that last year's profits were distributed with nominal amounts of money to three colleges. She added that down the line they would consider sponsoring a culinary school, or sponsoring the type of events that are relative to the hotel industry in Palm Desert at the University of California Riverside (UCR) and Cal State University. Ms. Gilligan mentioned that KemperSports is seeking a major Chef who has a charity this year, and if that person comes, his charity would have the opportunity to attract income within the city. Commissioner Babcock asked how the park's alcohol rules and regulations would apply to this event. Councilman Spiegel answered that the sale of alcohol has been allowed in the park before. Ms. Gilligan said that the sale of alcohol has been done in conjunction with events such as the golf cart parade, beer garden, and the Spring Fest. She pointed out that the City Council has permitted the sale of alcohol for those particular 3 G:1DevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minufes14-3-07.m�n.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 events. She indicated that a request for a permit would need to be presented to City Council for this event as well. Chairman Guyer asked for clarification of the amount of time the park would be closed in the evening. He asked if any part of the park would be shut down for setting up. Ms. Gilligan answered that about four hours would be needed for the staff to set up and two hours for the concert, although she did not think they would have to close the park per se, as people would not be asked to leave while Staff sets up. Commissioner Dawson asked whether the people who have tickets would be inside the fence area with access to food and wine, while the people outside the area would not. Ms. Gilligan answered that there would be vendors in the park with different types of food, but there would not be alcoholic beverages outside the fenced area. She added that it all goes to the ticketing of the Art of Food and Wine. There are five festivals such as this all over the country, and Palm Desert is competing to be the sixth event at the national level. Ms. Gilligan explained that during the festival there would be events that people could go to such as concerts, seminars, cooking classes, and cooking demonstrations. She indicated that the unveiling of the Veteran's Memorial at Freedom Park, which will be a free event for all residents, is scheduled for November 11, 2007, at 11:00 a.m. Ms. Gilligan noted that there will be activities at different venues around the City: at EI Paseo on Friday; cooking events at the Marriott; a golf tournament at Desert Willow; the concert on Saturday, and the festival will culminate on Sunday with various activities at the Marriott. Ms. Gilligan mentioned that she is meeting with KemperSports once a month, as the Festival is in the planning stage and they are trying to build from last year's success; right now the goal is to secure the park for the conce�t venue, try it this year and learn from this experience. Commissioner Dawson thought that this was a wonderful idea and would definitely support the whole concept, but he expressed concern that this event would imply taking the Civic Park and separating people between the have's and the have-nots based on whether a person can afford a ticket or not. He added that it bothers him that a civic park is restricted to income levels so that people who could buy a ticket can be there while everybody else is fringed, and even though they can listen to the music, they cannot really be part of the concert. Commissioner Babcock commented that it appears that there are two sets of tickets, and appear to be three different selections or grades of people 4 G'IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12007 Minutes14-3-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 in the Civic Center Park. Chairman Guyer clarified that there are not three levels; there is one ticket only. Commissioner Babcock replied that there appears to be two kinds of access: general and club. Ms. Gilligan said that even though there are two ticket levels, the objective is to make the concert free to anyone who would like to come. She explained that there would be $400 tickets available for the full festival as well as tickets a la carte, where people could buy a ticket for any specific event they would like to attend such as the wine tasting at EI Paseo, or the concert. This would be a solution to the issue of people not being able to afford a ticket for the whole festival. Commissioner Dawson commented that people would still need to have a ticket to be in the inside area of the concert; he did not mind the "we-they" issue at other venues such as Desert Willow, but he expressed concern that in a civic park, which is paid for by al1 residents, some people would not be able to afford the price of the a la carte ticket to be within the fenced area. Ms. Gilligan answered that they would still be able to come and enjoy the concert for free. Commissioner Dash asked if any of the four recommended items were unprecedented, and whether this event is officially sponsored by the City. Ms. Gilligan answered that the event is sponsored by the City, which contracted with KemperSports to produce the festival. Ms. Steele pointed out to the commission that items one and four have happened since she has been with the City, item two has been done before, and number three has not been done before. Commissioner Babcock expressed concern about setting a precedent for allowing the use of the park to other organizations, and wondered what would follow in subsequent years; would that entail taking the use of the park away on Saturdays and Sundays. Ms. Gilligan answered that only Saturday night would be needed; the park would be available as usual on Sunday. She indicated that the City has permitted organizations to take sections of the park, such as the Boy Scouts. She added this would be a community event, and as the City gets built out, it is important to look at ways for the City to produce revenues, sales tax, and TOT. She indicated that this event would help bring visitors to the City who would stay in the hotels, shop, and go to restaurants. If this event grows as expected, it would become an annual event and the thing to do in the month of November, when the hotel occupancy, sales, and restaurant business are down. She indicated that the Marketing Committee has looked consistently for things to bring to the City during this period. Ms. Gilligan continued that this would be a community event that could grow as a revenue producer for the City in the future. 5 G.1DevServ�ceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minules14-3-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Commissioner Garcia asked for clarification on what the vendors would be selling inside and outside the fenced area. Ms. Gilligan answered that there would be no sales inside the fenced area; as part of the ticket price there would be restaurants, chairs, and alcohol vendors. Outside the fence area there would be vendors similar to those on the 4th of July, with soft drinks, hot dogs and hamburgers. Commissioner Garcia asked if the $400 ticket would grant access to all the events during the festival, and the money collected would go the City of Palm Desert. Ms Gilligan replied that is correct. Councilman Spiegel explained that there are a lot of expenses involved with the festival. He pointed out that the idea is to have a signature event for the City of Palm Desert and they are trying to make it grow; he mentioned that the festival in Florida sells out every year. He said that last year was the first year with the performance of Pink Martini, which will be performing at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles, and they are hoping to have a concert of that caliber. He said that it would be a much higher-end event than the summer concerts in the park. Councilman Spiegel indicated that last year wine merchants closed EI Paseo and had wine tastings with people buying tickets to participate. He indicated that there were no complaints for the event on EI Paseo. Councilman Spiegel added that this event would be an overblown, higher caliber summer concert that would bring people from miles around, and if it does not happen at the park, people would be deprived from listening to the concert. Commissioner Garcia added that during the fall, in Napa there is a Mustard Festival that attracts thousands of people from all over the world; he talked to people who thought that was a great, fun event and people have to pay to get into. He added that the cities are doing this type of functions and it is a great way to make money. Commissioner Barnard mentioned that he went to the concert last year, and he thought that probably 90 percent of the people who went to the concert had never been to the park before; he thought it is great that the City is having an event of this caliber at the Civic Center Park because it will attract people to the park. He mentioned that the Commission has been talking for several years about upgrading the amphitheater and making it a better facility; this could be a good test to see if it makes sense to invest all the money to make it a concert venue. He added that for the City to consider having this type of event at the park it is a good thing. Commissioner Babcock expressed concern about separating the people in the park; he was concerned with people being deprived from using the park. Ms. Gilligan answered that people could use all the facilities available, they could enjoy the music since the park would not be shut 6 G-IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinute512007 Mrnutes14-3-07 min doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 down. She indicated that in order for this event to be successful, there have to be certain areas fenced off. Commissioner Dawson inquired how many ticketed people would be allowed to go in the fenced area. Ms. Gilligan answered that they anticipate 500. Commissioner Dash asked if people could buy a ticket for the concert only, Ms. Gilligan answered yes, people could buy a la carte tickets. Chairman Guyer clarified that people could listen to the concert for free, but they would have to pay if they wanted to go in and have food and wine. The ticket for the concert and the wine would be approximately $75. Commissioner Barnes expressed his concern for setting a precedent with this event, and allowing future use of the park. Ms. Gilligan answered that the City has already used the park for similar events such as the Spring Fest. Chairman Guyer interjected that the McCallum may take over next year, thus the Commission is looking at this one event only, and in the future they can look at other events in a case-by-case basis. Councilman Spiegel pointed out that a precedent has been set already by allowing the Boy Scouts to use the park. Chairman Guyer commented that he has walked in the park at night and there is no activity at the park; perhaps something is needed to attract attention to the park on Saturday nights. Commissioner Babcock expressed concern with renting any portion of the park. Ms. Gilligan answered that the park is not being rented. Chairman Guyer clarified that the Commission is granting KemperSports permission to use the park. He also indicated that people would be getting a free concert, and only those who would want to participate in the food and wine would need to buy a ticket. Commissioner Barnard moved to approve Staff's recommendation to allow The Art of Food and Wine Concert in the park. Commissioner Garcia seconded the motion, carried with a 5-2 vote with Commissioners Barnes and Babcock opposing and Vice Chair Schukart and Munson absent. (Munson on LOA) B. SUMMER MEETINGS Discussion and recommendation to follow the same schedule as the City Council, and "go dark" during the second meeting in July and the first meeting in August. � G:IDevServiceslMoroca LoretlolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minufes14-3-07 min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Ms. Steele explained to the Commission that in order to help them plan for the summer in advance, and rather than waiting until the last minute, Staff is recommending following the City Council schedule for the summer months and "going dark" the last meeting in July and the first meeting in August. Chairman Guyer commented that the Commission has a lot going on, and was concerned about not having meetings for finro months. Councilman Spiegel clarified that the Commission would not go dark for finro months; it would only be two meetings. Commissioner Dawson moved to "go dark" the last meeting in July and first meeting in August. Commissioner Babcock seconded the motion, and caarried by a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Schukart and Commissioner Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. CAHUILLA HILLS PARK Discussion and recommendation to investigate the cost of moving the current landscaping further into the park and develop additional parking. Ms. Steele reported to the Commission that she met with Vice Chair Schukart and Mr. Niemczak at Cahuilla Hills Park to look at the proposal from Desert Cities Baptist Church for shared parking. She indicated that they looked at the different options; she discussed some of the Commission's concerns with an agreement with the church and the indemnification issues, and explained that they considered other options, such as looking at the area marked as No. 1 rather than utilizing the church's parking. Ms. Steele asked the Commission to look at the area to the north of Edgehill Drive, to the right of the tennis courts; she said that Staff could work with the water district to obtain an easement and put some parking there. Ms. Steele indicated that Staff works with the water district often in this type of agreements, and Staff believes this would be a better option, as it would create 8-12 parking spaces in that area without having to remove landscape from area No. 1. Ms. Steele said Staff would like to look at this area and change the recommendation to consider that area instead, and start conversations with the water district to create parking there. Commissioner Dawson mentioned there is a table by a tree, and wanted to know if that area would not be affected by the parking. Mr. Niemczak responded yes. He said that Staff put an access gate there, and clarified that the proposed parking would be right along the gate, perhaps 10 feet 8 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DafalPa�ksBReclMinute5�2007 Minutesl4-3-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 inside the gate. Commissioner Dawson asked when does the access gate get locked up now. Mr. Niemczak responded that currently the gate is locked 24 hours a day, and if this option was approved, Staff would have CVRPD open the gates when they open the tennis courts in the morning and lock it at night. Commissioner Babcock asked when are the tennis courts opened right now. Mr. Niemczak responded that they are opened before 7:00 a.m. and closed at 10:00 p.m. Commissioner Dawson noted that the chance for cars being locked up is very slim. Commissioner Babcock commented that he walks his dog early in the morning, and he has observed approximately six cars or SUVs parked at the church. Ms. Steele pointed out that the existing parking spots would remain as they currently are, and the gate would stay exactly where it is. She reminded the Commission that the gate was installed to prevent 4- wheeling into the park past the tennis courts. Commissioner Barnes noted that on page 27, next to the area marked as No. 2, by the church, there is a big open space there that appears to belong to the water district. Ms. Steele responded that Staff does not recommend that area due to the fact that if people were directed to park over there, they would park in the church's parking lot. Commissioner Dawson added that the church representative did not want the public parking in that area. A discussion followed about the various pieces of vacant land in that area. Mr. Homer Croy, Assistant City Manager for Development Services, indicated that the City could not install permanent parking in that area. Commissioner Barnes commented on some of the past parking issues in that area, and Mr. Niemczak clarified that it was at that time they decided to install the gate. Ms. Steele indicated that Staff is asking the Commission for direction. If the Commission agrees, Staff would look into that possibility further. Commissioner Dash asked if there are bathrooms at this park. Ms. Steele answered that there are not. Commissioner Dawson moved to recommend Staff to look into the option of adding parking area further north, and also installing appropriate signs redirecting people and indicating when the gate closes. Motion seconded by Commissioner Barnard and carried with a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Schukart and Commissioner Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA). 9 G.IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minutes14-3-07 m�n.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 B. PALM DESERT AQUATIC CENTER Discussion and recommendation concerning the aquatic center. Ms. Steele informed the Commission that the City Council denied the design as proposed, and asked that a competition-only pool be built. Councilman Spiegel asked for that direction to come back to the Commission prior to the final vote. Staff was directed to analyze the operating costs of a competition-only pool, and to make a recommendation. Ms. Steele pointed out that the issue on hand is whether to recommend City Council building a competition-only pool, which is going to cost $400,000 to maintain, or recommend not to build a competition-only pool due to the high operating costs and low rate of cost recovery and not serve the needs of the citizens as they indicated in the survey. Commissioner Barnes complimented Ms. Steele on the information given in the survey; it listed different pools within the State of California and listed the operating costs, expenses and so on. He commented that he would add three pools that were not included on the list: La Quinta, Palm Springs, and the Rose Bowl at Pasadena. He indicated that they are good examples of municipal, competition-only pools. Commissioner Barnes added that the City of Vista has a successful pool; he thought City Council ought to see it and see how successful they are. He added that he is still in favor of a pool at COD, but he does not believe the City should subsidize it once it is built. Commissioner Barnes provided a metaphor about a father and son to exemplify his point. Commissioner Dash asked what the Council's reaction was to a city aquatic center. Are they adamant about a competition only aquatic center, or are they willing to consider one with fewer amenities than the Commission proposed. Councilman Spiegel answered that he did not know. Chairman Guyer said that the Council is probably looking at a competition-only pool. Councilman Spiegel commented that Councilman Ferguson indicated that if the pool is successful, they could add amenities as needed as they did with the skate park. Commissioner Barnes stated that he is opposed to the pool being there, he does not think the acreage is adequate for any additions; he added that the corner is not big enough for the kind of pool that the residents wanted. Chairman Guyer asked Commissioner Barnes whether or not he would make a recommendation to the City Council that they build a competition only pool. Commissioner Barnes said that he would make a recommendation for a competition-only lap pool, without any additional amenities because they would not fit in; let the City pay for a pool, what the Commission considered a Scheme 1 pool, and let COD run it and pay 10 G IDevSernceslMon�ca LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Mmutes14-3-07.min.doc PARKS � RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 for its maintenance. Chairman Guyer clarified that that is a decision that could not be made at this meeting. Councilman Spiegel indicated that the question is whether or not the Commission recommends to Council that they build a competition-only lap pool at COD. Commissioner Barnes expressed his thoughts in regard to the issue of maintenance once the pool is built. Commissioner Barnes motioned for the City to build a lap pool according to the specifications of College of the Desert and for the COD to maintain and administer the pool. No one seconded this motion. A discussion followed. Commissioner Garcia asked if that was what the City wanted. Chairman Guyer read the Council's motion per the City Council's meeting minutes. Chairman Guyer indicated that the Commission needed to make a recommendation whether or not they want to have a competition-only lap pool without amenities, and then decide what to do at that point. Commissioners engaged in a discussion of the maintenance and management of the pool. Commissioner Babcock commented on the disadvantages of working arrangements with schools; he pointed out that as Superintendents change, new rules are implemented and he expressed his concerns with entering into an agreement with COD. Chairman Guyer asked Commissioner Barnes if he wanted to amend the motion. He maintained the motion as stated. Commissioner Garcia clarified that the Commission was to either approve a competition-only pool or not; then they would send the original proposal to City Council or try to reach a compromise with Council or take Staff's recommendation and do nothing. Commissioner Dawson indicated that Staffs recommendation would solve the issues discussed. Chairman Guyer asked to vote on Staff's recommendation, and decide whether or not they want a competition-pool only. Commissioner Barnard noted that the City Council could ultimately direct Staff to build the pool. If the pool were to be built, then they would discuss the managing of the pool. Councilman Spiegel asked Commissioner Barnes if he wanted to withdraw his motion and indicated that if the motion did not get a second, the motion would not proceed. Chairman Guyer asked Commissioner Barnes whether he would like to change his motion. He declined to modify his motion and 11 G IDevServiceslMomca Lo�edolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minutes14-3-07 min.doc PARKS � RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 pointed out the issue of inadequate parking. Chairman Guyer called for a second. No one seconded the motion. Chairman Guyer called for a new motion. Commissioner Babcock moved to take Staff s recommendation to not build an aquatic center at College of the Desert and to take that recommendation to City Council. Commissioner Dawson seconded the motion, and carried with a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Schukart and Commissioner Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) VIII. REPORTS AND UPDATES A. ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION Ms. Steele invited the Commission to attend the City of Palm Desert's Arbor Day Celebration in the Civic Center Park on Friday, April 13, 2007. Ms. Steele invited Commissioners to represent the Commission and welcome them to speak and participate at the celebration. Councilman Spiegel commented that this celebration will be held in the park because when the trees were planted at the schools, they did not survive; he indicated that it makes sense to bring the children to the park and having them plant the trees there which would ensure that Parks Maintenance Staff takes care of them. B. COACHELLA VALLEY RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT ASSESSMENT DISTRICT Ms. Steele indicated that this issue was discussed on October and November of last year; CVRPD was considering establishing an assessment district. Ms. Steele said that CVRPD is not currently doing anything in Palm Desert but rather in unincorporated areas, and invited Mr. Ford to answer the Commission's questions. Mr. Ford indicated that on Wednesday, March 14, 2007, the CVRPD's Board created an assessment district that is generally in the Thermal area in the unincorporated county, which is intended to support facilities that were referenced in their Master Plan. He said it is applicable to new housing units and new developments with less than 100 homes. Mr. Ford said that a developer was interested in providing faciVities and services to the homeowners when he starts building, and he approached Supervisor Roy Wilson and discussed this issue with him, recognizing that the County would not be able to provide these services for this development, so they approached CVRPD to create this assessment district for this development. Mr. Ford welcomed questions from the Commission. 12 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWoid DatalParksBReclMinufe512007 M�nute5�4-3-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Councilman Spiegel asked if this assessment would impact Palm Desert residents. Mr. Ford answered it would not, but invited residents to use their aquatic center when they build it. He indicated that unless the City buys a couple of hundred lots, it should not be impacted. Mr. Ford mentioned that as small developers start building in the same area in the county they might want to annex into this district. Commissioner Dawson indicated that the October 23, 2006, letter to Mr. Ortega indicates that the assessment district being considered will not be assessed on current district residents including Palm Desert residents; he asked if the assessment would be levied on future Palm Desert residents. Mr. Ford responded that for answering this question purposes, he would speculate and consider the same scenario approach with a developer building 50 homes; if that developer came to CVRPD and said that he would like to annex into the assessment district that now sits in Thermal, that would potentially be allowed, and those potential future Palm Desert would pay into the new assessment district. Commissioner Dawson asked if that would happen only if the builder requested the annexation. Mr. Ford answered that 50 residents after they bought their home could also vote to assess themselves into the district; Mr. Ford elaborated that at the time of development, a typical mechanism for government agencies like a City is to do it when there is only one vote, thus often times with districts like this one come about when there is only one owner, in this case the developer. If it were to happen after the lots are sold, it would take the majority of the residents to vote. Councilman Spiegel said that this is not unique; the City does it all the time with new developments: assessment districts are created to build new roads, gutters and so on. Mr. Ford explained that having a funding source and knowing what the impacts would be, the agency would want to get funding in place sooner rather than later. Commissioner Barnard noted that it would be a matter of having the developer agree to join the district before homeowners moved in; and that the developer would be making the decision for all the future homeowners. Mr. Ford answered that the developer would be making the decision as how the City makes decisions for residents for roads, streets, fire hydrants and so on. He indicated that the developer makes the decision to provide services because the developer is selling homes and if he is showing a map that shows a park, he wants to make sure that the park is built some day. Commissioner Barnard asked if this assessment district would only qualify for the CVRPD service area. Mr. Ford answered that this cannot be done arbitrarily; a developer would have to vote that way. In this case, he approached CVRPD for the Thermal Project. Commissioner Barnard 13 G-1DevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalPaiksBReclMiwtes12007 Minutes14-3-07.min.tloc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 asked if this assessment district could be implemented everywhere. Mr. Ford indicated that CVRPD's jurisdiction is much like that the City that has jurisdiction over its boundaries. He noted that it is not an easy process to create these districts. Gommissioner Barnard asked if this would guarantee funding forever, Mr. Ford said that voters could always vote it out. He briefly mentioned that Proposition 218 provides a mechanism that when fees get changed voters can do away with them. Commissioner Barnard asked if CVRPD has to contact the City for this type of districts, or if the cities are not part of this decision. Mr. Ford responded that this district was created in an unincorporated area, and was not sure they would ever consider a similar district in Palm Desert given the relationship CVRPD has with the City; he indicated that the public hearing process is the same, he said that in the case a development is within city boundaries, they probably would have to direct them to the City. Commissioner Barnard mentioned the 6,000 to 8,000 new homes being built on the North side of town. Mr. Ford said that these would come through the planning process; CVRPD would have to put the condition to request that this is annexed in. Mr. Ford indicated that any land exception fees within city boundaries are not collected by CVRPD; they only coilect for unincorporated areas. Commissioner Babcock asked if this assessment went through, what would happen to the parks maintained by the City, and what would be the impact should the City go under this umbrella. He wanted to know who would run the parks, and who would regulate the use of the parks. Mr. Ford answered that in previous meetings the Commission discussed exploring changing the legislation to allow Quimby Fees to be used for maintenance. Chairman Guyer said no. Mr. Ford said that for the parks under CVRPD's jurisdiction, they determine the hours of operation, the type of programs, and permitting procedures. Chairman Guyer clarified that Commissioner Babcock was referring to the City's parks. Commissioner Babcock discussed his concerns about the use of the city parks. Councilman Spiegel said that in Palm Desert, the City manages the parks. Commissioner Babcock asked Mr. Ford what CVRPD does for the City. Ms. Steele answered that CVRPD schedules parks for the City. Mr. Ford replied that CVRPD has a contractual deal with the City, and depending on what they are asked to do, they do a variety of things. Mr. Croy asked the Commission if they were familiar with the concept of Lighting and Landscape Districts (LLDs), where residents pay a tax to maintain the lights and the landscape around their development. He explained that this is the same process, just not labeled that way. He 14 G.IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinute512007 M�nutesl43-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 continued that the City conducted a thorough study of the costs of LLDs. Consequently, the City had to upgrade the systems and the residents had to pay more money to maintain the high level of service. Two homeowners' associations elected not to participate in the LLDs, and the City does not collect taxes on these developments any longer, but the City Council asked them to create a homeowners associations (HOA) to take care of their own lighting and landscaping. Mr. Croy indicated that this recreation district is no different than a LLD in the sense that it is area specific; it does not incorporate the entire city. Commissioner Garcia asked if the Haystack area is a city park. Mr. Croy indicated that it is a LLD, and it has a retention basin within for runoff that has to be maintained. Mr. Croy explained that retention basins are in every development in the city, and they are all maintained by the homeowners who live in the area; they are developed with either rock or grass; whatever material is in it, its purpose is for storm runoff. Mr. Croy said that it is a LLD and the city contracts out for its maintenance, whereas any new development would now require creating a HOA. Councilman Spiegel explained that City Council created HOAs because the costs of property maintenance are increasing every year and with LLDs residents did not want to pay for these increases. Having HOAs allow for the city to recourse to code enforcement to make it look nice. Ms. Steele noted that the 93-1 Assessment that occurs right now assesses all the households that are within CVRPD's jurisdiction a $9.90 fee that goes towards operations of the CVRPD in the General Fund. It was explained to her by MuniFinancial that with this new assessment district any new development that comes in could potentially be assessed the $60 that would go not to the specific area, but to the general fund. She asked if that was correct. Mr. Ford replied that CVRPD could create assessment districts within its boundaries, and indicated that those who pay the $60 would not pay the $9.90 fee. He said that he was trying to clarify the misunderstanding that the District was creating a super-district and that they were not duplicating or replacing 93-1. Commissioner Dawson asked a question about the equalization of individual assessments, and if that meant that people who are in 93-1 might have an automatic increase to make them equal to the new assessment district. Mr. Ford responded that when he was with the City of Bakersfield, they had roughly 60 assessment districts and they consolidated them. Mr. Ford discussed the rationale for the equalization of assessment districts in Bakersfield based on the various areas of that city. He indicated that they talked about equalization districts because they have two or three that are site specific in Mecca, and there are people who are paying $2 to support the recreation center in Indio, and it is not 15 G:1DevServ�ceslMon�ca LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinute512007 Minutes14-3-07 min dce PARKS 8 RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 fair for those who already pay $52 to also pay $9.90 to also pay $60. If the new assessment district expands, they could equalize what they are paying and what they are getting in return. They do not know right now, because they only have that little area in Thermal, but it is a balancing mechanism. Commissioner Babcock asked what would be the advantage for Palm Desert to support this proposed assessment. Mr. Ford responded that potentially CVRPD would like to build the projects that the City may or may not be able to build, such as an aquatic center. Mr. Ford indicated that an advantage would be that they are looking at the same things such as a recreational aquatic center. Commissioner Garcia asked about the development past Portola to the I- 10, what would happen if developers decided that they wanted to go into the special assessment district, could they do it even though they are within the city limits of Palm Desert. Mr. Ford said he believed so. Councilman Spiegel indicated that the issue is what would be the advantage to a developer, because the Commission is already planning another regional park in the North area, plus other smaller parks and dog parks, why would they want to join the proposed assessment district. He pointed out that in Thermal there are no facilities or services. Mr. Ford responded that the CVRPD provides amenities at the regional level while the cities provide services at the local level. He indicated that there are services that the City can't or won't provide, and that is where the District comes in. Commissioner Babcock asked if CVRPD receives funds from developers, then they do not need the money that Palm Desert pays every year. Chairman Guyer answered that this issue refers to the Thermal assessment district only. Mr. Ford indicated that this new assessment district refers to new developments only, not to current services. C. FREEDOM PARK GRAND OPENING CELEBRATION Ms. Steele informed the Commission that the Committee met last week, and they were contemplating potential dates for the grand opening; originally the end of May was considered, but the park will not be quite ready by then; therefore, Staff considered the beginning of June and received a recommendation that it be held on the 4'h of July. Pat Scully who organizes the 4th of July every year was contacted and favorable to the idea. After talking to people who the Committee would want to be present at the grand opening such as bands, other participants, and vendors, July 4�h was not a successful date. Staff is therefore, considering 16 G:IDevSernceslMoroca LoiedolWoid DatalParks8ReclMinutes12007 Minufes14-3-07.min.dce PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 June 9 as the potential date; this would be a good day to do it, because children are still in school and perhaps the schools can get more involved. Other groups and organizations may be more available as well. Ms. Steele recommended considering June 9 as the potential date for the Freedom Park Grand Opening Celebration and add this item to the agenda. Chairman Guyer asked for any discussion for the June 9 date, which is the weekend before Flag Day. Commissioner Barnard asked if the 4th of July was not a good date for some people and events. Ms. Steele answered that for Staff it was not a problem, Council has things to tend to, but some participants had scheduling conflicts. Commissioner Barnes mentioned that Spring Fest did not have enough people to participant in all the events scheduled in one day. He was concerned with the lack of participation for all the events as proposed. Councilman Spiegel indicated that this would be a one-time only event. He also suggested buying about a thousand copies of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights booklet to give to every school child. Chairman Guyer noted that part of this celebration was the marketing of the recreation activities; because the survey results were that people did not know about their programs, the Commission wanted to involve the YMCA and the CVRPD in the celebration. Chairman Guyer moved to add to the agenda the decision to select a date for the Grand Opening of Freedom Park. Motion seconded by Commissioner Dawson, and carried with a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Schukart and Commissioner Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) Chairman Guyer moved to set the date for Saturday, June 9, for Grand Opening of Freedom Park. Commissioner Dawson seconded motion, and carried with a 7-0 vote with Vice Chair Schukart and Commissioner Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA) D. PROJECTS UPDATE Ms. Steele informed the Commission that the park patrol reported a 50 percent increase in the amount of people spending time in the park this spring. This has created an issue with the reservation of the three pavilions as some people remove the tables from the reserved pavilions and takes them to another areas of the park. Staff is in the process of receiving bids for 30 new picnic tables for the park. Staff is going to have these new tables bolted down in the pavilion areas to prevent the tables from being removed. 17 G:1DevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minutesld-3-07.min.doc PARKS 8� RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Chairman Guyer asked about the ball fields at the High School; he asked if the City maintains three fields while the school maintains one. He wanted to know how much longer would the City maintain them. Councilmember Spiegel answered that about another year and a half. Ms. Steele answered that she has scheduled a representative from the school district to give a presentation to the Commission about the renovations at the High School at the next meeting. IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioner Garcia commented that Mr. Carlos Ortega won the "Man About Town" contest. There was a gala ceremony and he raised an amazing amount of money for College of the Desert, and he deserves to be recognized by the Commission. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that Commissioner Garcia is being honored from the National Academy of Television Arts and Sciences with a luncheon and awards ceremony at Rancho Las Palmas on April 14, 2007. Commissioner Garcia explained that this award was given to people in the media such as Sydney Sheldon, who will be honored along with directors of all kind of television shows that run for years. Commissioner Garcia will receive his award for 14 Emmys and 45 years of service in the N business. The Commission congratulated Commissioner Garcia. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that Commissioner Barnard will be "Dancing with the Stars" on April 28, 2007, at the Hyatt Grand Champions, in a fundraising event to raise money for the Desert Samaritans for the Elderly. Councilman Spiegel gave the Commission an editorial that appeared in the Desert Sun; it was a complaint about a hiking trail. Councilman Spiegel asked the Commission if the complaint was accurate. The Commission did not know what trail the complaint was referring to. The trail in question was identified as the old Schey Trail (now called Hopalong Cassidy Trail.) Councilman Spiegel read a note from Mr. Ballew commenting how great the food and service were at Desert Willow at the YMCA Annual Campaign Victory Party. The campaign reached the goal of $350,000 to subsidize programs and services for low-income children and families in the area. Commissioner Dawson informed the Commission that he might possibly miss some meetings in the coming months due to health reasons. Councilman Spiegel offered his support and would advocate to City is GIDevServiceslMonica Lo�edolWoitl OatalParksBReclMinutes12007 Minutes143-O7.min.tloc PARKS � RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 Council to grant any necessary leave of absence to Commissioner Dawson from the Commission. Commissioner Barnes referred to page 34 of the agenda packet, to confirm that the Commission could not do anything further regarding the aquatic center until the City Council makes a determination. Councilman Spiegel confirmed that not until City Council provides further direction. Commissioner Barnes asked Ms. Steele about a potential new community center and discussed features such as an aquatic center. He wanted to know what type of features would be considered. Ms. Steele informed the Commission that on Thursday, April 12, 2007, at 2:30 p.m. she would be giving a presentation during the study session to show a virtual tour of the community center she was involved in Grandview, Missouri. She invited the Commission to attend. Councilman Spiegel mentioned that in June, City Council would be studying future projects. He is going to propose to watch Staff's community center presentation; if there were any interest, then he would recommend it to City Council at the budget session. If there were no interest at all, he would not ask the Commission to go through the process of planning a facility if nothing is going to come to fruition. Commissioner Barnes thought that the City Council could answer to the people of the City, according to the survey results, if they got to have an aquatic center like Vista's. Councilman Spiegel said that City Council did not want that type of aquatic center. It was turned down because they just wanted a lap pool, not because of parking or location. They did not want to compete with Soak City. Commissioner Dawson asked when Staff would take the Commission's updated recommendation to City Council. Ms. Steele answered on April 26, 2007. Ms. Steele informed the Commission that the Annual MS Walk is scheduled for April 14, 2007, at the Civic Center Park. Ms. Steele said that the Civic Center Park was named "The Best Park" in the Desert Sun's survey. Councilman Spiegel commented Palm Desert's should have been named the best dog park too. Chairman Guyer noted that Palm Springs' dog park is larger. Ms. Steele commented that Ms. Munson is thinking coming back in the fall, and that she is grateful to have the leave of absence. 19 G-IDevSernceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks6ReclMinutes12007 Minutesl43-07.min.doc PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES APRIL 3, 2007 X. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by Commissioner Dash, seconded by Commissioner Dawson, and unanimous vote of the Commission, Chair Guyer adjourned the meeting at 10:30 a.m. ��1[C;rwr� ���� Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary 20 G.IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWo�d DalalPa�ksBReclMinutes12007 Miwtes14-3-07.min.doc