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I. CALL TO ORDER a �u
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Vice Chair Terry Schukart convened the meeting at 8:30 a.�.� � � -
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II. ROLLCALL >., aw � �; v; wHH •��
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Present: Excused Absenc���� � � z a� � � c�
Chair Randy Guyer @ 8:44 a.m. Commissioner Julie Munson
Vice Chair Terry Schukart (Munson on Leave of Absence)
Commissioner Phill Babcock
Commissioner Michael Barnard Absent
Commissioner Daniel Barnes Commissioner David Garcia
Commissioner Roger Dash
Commissioner Gerald Dawson
Staff Present:
Janis Steele, Parks & Recreation Services Manager
Jay Niemczak, Parks Facilities Manager
Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary
III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM JUNE 19, 2007 AND
MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM JULY 3, 2007
Commissioner Barnes asked who edits the minutes. Ms. Steele
responded that the Administrative Secretary typed one set and the Office
Assistant typed the other. The Secretary and she review the minutes.
Commissioner Barnes asked if Ms. Steele or Ms. Loredo edit the minutes.
Ms. Steele replied yes. He asked Ms. Steele if she decided what to leave
in or take out. Ms. Steele replied that she would not say that.
Commissioner Barnes interjected that he would say that Ms. Steele does
edit the minutes.
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Vice Chair Schukart asked Commissioner Barnes what specifically he is
referring to. Commissioner Barnes responded that he would abstain
approving the minutes of the July 3, 2007, meeting.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that they are currently approving the
minutes from June 19, 2007.
Commissioner Barnes voiced as a point of information, he would like to
know who edits the minutes. Ms. Steele replied that she edits the minutes
and Ms. Loredo or Ms. Chavez listen to the tapes. She reviews the
minutes to make sure they make sense and that there are not any typos.
Commissioner Barnes commented that he would have a private
discussion with Ms. Steele.
Commissioner Dawson noted that it is up to the Commission if something
needs to be approved or changed. Ms. Steele stated that if something is
missing it could certainly be added.
Minutes of the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting of June
19, 2007, were approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by
Dawson/Barnard and carried by a 6-0 vote with Chair Guyer and
Commissioners Garcia and Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA)
Vice Chair Schukart asked Commissioner Barnes if there was a section in
the July 3 minutes that was inadequate or misrepresented. He responded
that a section was completely left out. Vice Chair Schukart asked what
was the topic. Commissioner Barnes replied it was the soccer park and
the dogs. He explained that he made a comment that he felt should be in
the minutes as a Commissioner, and that he is entitled to say what he
wants about certain situations. The comment that he made was left
because it might upset certain individuals in our community. That is why
he believes it was edited and he resents it.
Ms. Steele stated that the comment could be added. She knows that Ms.
Chavez typed the July 3 minutes. She noted that Ms. Chavez usually
types in more verbatim than Ms. Loredo.
Vice Chair Schukart indicated to Commissioner Barnes that he has the
right to add his comment back into the minutes. Commissioner Barnes
responded that he would leave it out for now, but may have to insert it
again at a later time.
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Commissioner Dawson moved to continue the approval of the July 3,
2007, meeting minutes and request Ms. Chavez to re-listen to the
tapes to listen for something substantially left out under the topic of
dogs in the soccer park section. Commissioner Babcock seconded
the motion and carried by a 6-0 vote with Chair Guyer and
Commissioners Garcia and Munson ABSENT (Munson on LOA)
IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - None
V. PRESENTATIONS - None
VI. NEW BUSINESS
A. 2008 LEGENDS FIELD HONOREES (SENIOR GAMES)
Discussion and recommendation FOR THE 2008 Legends Field
honoree.
Ms. Steele stated that at the previous Commission meeting it was
requested to bring back a short list of potential Legend Field honorees for
the International Sports Festival (Senior Games). She noted that she has
attached some bios of those listed. She apologized to the Commission
that she did not know who was Pat Hart. Commissioner Barnes replied
that it should be Pat Hart Cash. He added that he is Australian and may
not live in the desert.
Ms. Steele commented that she could delete Pat Hart from the list.
Commissioner Dawson asked if Billy Jean King has a residence in the
valley. Ms. Steele responded that she has some connection to the valley.
She might be building a condo complex in the desert.
Commissioner Dawson asked if Pete Sampras has a residence in the
desert. Ms. Steele responded that she did not know.
Commissioner Dawson commented that he heard that Annika Sorenstam
sold her home at Bighorn.
Commissioner Barnes mentioned that Pete Sampras maybe too busy to
be an honoree.
Commissioner Dash indicated that he recommended Steve Garvey that
was prior to his knowledge that Billy Jean King was eligible. He would like
to let everyone know that he would rather support Billy Jean King instead
of Steve Garvey.
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Vice Chair Schukart asked what is the timeline to choose an honoree. Ms.
Steele replied that it would be ideal if the Commission could narrow it
down to one or two, and then Staff could work on approaching the
nominees.
Commissioner Barnes provided several more names of people that are
known nationally. He listed Roslyn Summers, La Quinta; Don Sutton, Hall
of Fame; Don Bayler; Pat Hearst, golf; Tom Flores, football; and Glen
Davis.
Mr. Stan Ford, Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District, informed the
Commission that it would be nice to have the name of the honoree for the
brochure that is going to go out to print within the next 45 days.
Commissioner Barnes commented that they have never had an individual
woman as an honoree.
It was discussed whether Billy Jean King lived in the valley.
Vice Chair Schukart asked the Commission if there were any other names
they would like to consider. No other names were announced.
Vice Chair Schukart asked the Commission if they agreed that an honoree
has to be nationally recognized, has an established residency and a
presence, and is well known in the valley. The Commission agreed.
Vice Chair Schukart asked the Commission who would be the most well
known in the valley. Commissioner Barnard responded that Steve Garvey
was on the cover of Pa/m Springs Life.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that he is involved in the community and
does little league coaching.
Commissioner Barnard added that he lives in the valley full time.
Vice Chair Schukart informed the Commission that Tom Flores lives in
Indian Wells, and is also involved in the community.
It was mentioned that Rosie Casals is a full time resident. It was discussed
that Tom Flores, Rosie Casals, Steve Garvey, and Don Sutton have a
presence in the va{ley.
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Chair Guyer asked the Commission if they would want tennis only or other
sports represented at Legends Field. The Commission replied yes, all
sports could be represented.
Chair Guyer commented that he would like to include Billy Jean King, if
she is a part time resident. Vice Chair Schukart agreed.
Vice Chair Schukart listed the names so that Staff could bring back
additional information to the next meeting: Tom Flores, Rosie Casals,
Steve Garvey, Don Sutton, and Billy Jean King.
Ms. Steele asked what type of information is the Commission requesting
for the nominees. Vice Chair Schukart responded to check if Rosie Casals
and Billy Jean King live in the valley.
It was mentioned that the Commission would vote at the next meeting.
The Commission thanked Ms. Steele for the information.
VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS
A. DESERT CITIES BAPTIST CHURCH AND CAHUILLA HILLS
PARK PARKING
Discussion and recommendation concerning options for the Cahuilla
Hills Park parking.
Mr. Niemczak stated that he met with Mr. Holcomb from Desert Cities
Baptist Church concerning parking. Staff came up with three options: 1)
Mr. Holcomb's preference, enter a joint use agreement with the church
that would allow citizens to use the parking lot on a limited basis. The City
would have to install a gate and maintain that area; 2) build a small
parking lot north of the well site along the access road. It would entail
moving trees, native species, and grading. Not very many parking spaces
would come from this option; and 3) enter a joint use agreement with
Desert Cities Baptist Church to utilize the property east of the church as a
joint use parking area. Staff recommends this option as it would allow
church and park users access to the park, trails, and tennis. It would
provide better visibility of parked vehicles, which may assist in reducing
vandalism.
Commissioner Dawson mentioned that when Mr. Holcomb approached
the Commission, he was not interested in Option 3. He asked if he has
changed his mind. Mr. Niemczak responded that he has not discussed
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Option 3 with Mr. Holcomb. Staff wanted to receive the Commission's
approval to talk to Mr. Holcomb on Option 3.
Commissioner Dawson recalled that Mr. Holcomb did not want the
parking too close to the church. Mr. Niemczak replied that the City could
work out keeping the parking away from the church. Mr. Niemczak stated
that he has looked at some estimates to install a parking lot with
landscape, lighting, and curbing.
Commissioner Babcock asked if there would be enough parking on a
Sunday when there is church service and people using the park. Mr.
Niemczak responded that they have a front and back lot to serve the
church.
Mr. Niemczak commented that a lot of Mr. Holcomb's concerns were that
the people who were parking in the back Vot were partying and
vandalizing.
Commissioner Babcock noted that there are a lot more people using the
park.
Ms. Steele indicated that some residents and City departments were
having some concerns with vandalism and the darkness. She mentioned
that she is working with the other departments to come up with a solution.
She also noted that the residents would not have a problem with low-level
fighting.
Commissioner Barnard asked why the City would not want to share the
parking lot and if it would be a liability issue. Mr. Niemczak replied that Mr.
Holcomb originally wanted the City to lock the gate at night and take care
of maintenance.
Vice Chair Schukart added that if there were a rupture in the asphalt,
the City would have to come in and repair it. He does not think that is the
direction the City would want to go.
Mr. Niemczak noted that Mr. Holcomb's idea was to share just the north
parking lot, which would be approximately 12 spaces.
Commissioner Dawson moved for Staff to continue to pursue Option
3 (enter into a joint use agreement with the church to utilize the
property east of the church as a joint use parking area). Vice Chair
Schukart seconded the motion and carried by a 7-0 vote with
Commissioners Garcia and Munson ABSENT. (Munson on LOA)
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VIII. REPORTS AND UPDATES
A. COACHELLA VALLEY RECREATION & PARK DISTRICT (CVRPD)
INFORMATION
Ms. Steele reported that the report from CVRPD was an informational
item. She noted that Mr. Ford is present to answer any questions. The
Commission had no questions.
B. PLAYGROUND SAFETY AUDIT
Mr. Niemczak reported that Staff would be completing the high priority
items by the end of September. Once the high priority items are
completed, Staff will start working on less priority items.
C. HEALTHY PARKS, HEALTHY COMMUNITIES WORKSHOP
Ms. Steele informed the Commission that the workshop is being held in La
Quinta. She noted that she provided additional information in the agenda
packet. If anyone is interested in attending, please notify Ms. Loredo. Ms.
Steele mentioned that Staff would be attending the workshop.
Commission Dawson recommended Staff to bring back any information
that might be important.
D. PARKS AND RECREATION INFORMATIONAL GUIDE
Ms. Steele reported that she has included in the agenda packet a copy of
the Parks and Recreation Guide and dog brochure. She noted that the
summer intern put it all together. Ms. Steele asked the Commission if they
saw anything in the guide or brochure that should be changed to {et her
know.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that it turned out really nice.
Commissioner Dawson asked if there was a reason why Ironwood Park
and Washington Charter were not on the map on page 3 (No. 10 and 15).
Ms. Steele responded that it looks like it was dropped off. She would
contact the printing company.
Commissioner Dawson commented that disc golf is only at Hovley, and
asked if there is going to be disc golf at Freedom Park. Ms. Steele replied
no. They may look at building one at the future park on Portola.
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Commissioner Barnard mentioned that the guide only has pictures of
children and not adults. It makes it look like it is only for kids.
Commissioner Dash asked what the plans for distribution are. Ms. Steele
responded that they would be available at the Recreation Centers, YMCA,
City Hall, and Visitor Center.
Commissioner Dawson recommended the Senior Center.
Chair Guyer asked if it could be an insert in the Bright Side. Ms. Steele
replied that it would not because marketing would have wanted to produce
it themselves and it would have cost a lot more money. It may have
taken a lot longer to do. She noted that maybe they could take what they
have and do something in the future.
Ms. Steele mentioned that the guide would also be available on the
website. She noted that the website is under construction. Soon people
would be able to click on the guide and print it out.
Commissioner Dawson commented that it would be nice to have the trails
on the website. Ms. Steele replied that they would also be on the website.
She mentioned that the marketing department is working with a typesetter
to reproduce a trails map.
Mr. Croy added that the trails are about 99% complete. He explained that
the trails have been walked and surveyed with a GPS system, and would
be connected to Google map online. People would be able to see the trails
and the elevation. He commented that the information could be brought
back to the Commission. Mr. Croy noted that the City's GPS Staff worked
really hard on that project.
The Commission commented that it sounds great.
Mr. Ford commented that the District would be available to distribute the
guide at their concerts.
Commissioner Dash suggested having a map of the parks and trails in the
Bright Side as an insert. Ms. Steele replied that the marketing department
would be working on that and it would happen.
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E. DOG PARK BROCHURE
Ms. Steele reported that the dog brochure was also completed and is
coordinated with the guide. She noted that some of the dogs on the
brochure belong to several Staff Members.
Commissioner Barnes referred to page 91 of the agenda packet and
pointed to Item A that dogs and cats have to be led by a cord or chain not
more than six feet long. He indicated that most dog leashes that people
use today are the retractable type. Most retractable leashes are more than
15 feet. He stated that it would be pretty hard to keep dogs within six feet.
Mr. Croy responded that he sat on the Board when the ordinance was
being drafted approximately a year. The reason they came up with six feet
was because that is the average minimal cost for someone to purchase a
leash or a chain. The leashes that let out 15 feet are more expensive. He
noted that it is a countywide ordinance.
Vice Chair Schukart asked when would the flyer be ready for distribution.
Ms. Steele responded that it would be a little over seven days.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that he would like to take some with him
when he goes on his walks to the soccer park. Ms. Steele volunteered to
deliver the brochures to his office.
Ms. Steele added that park patrol would have the brochures available and
they would also be at the dog park.
F. FREEDOM PARK COMMUNITY GARDENS
Mr. Niemczak reported that the report is an information item. He explained
that the gardens were originally left off the plans and not part of the
Freedom Park construction because Ms. Frankie Riddle is in charge of the
community gardens. She received bids for the gardens, and Larios
Construction was awarded the bid for the construction. He noted that he is
assisting her in the inspection of the work. Mr. Niemczak mentioned that
he has included a diagram showing the layout of the gardens. He
indicated that there would be 11 plots, and each one could be cut in half
for 22 gardens. They would be ADA accessible and a shade structure
would be built.
Commissioner Dawson asked if only one plot is two feet high instead of
three feet high. Mr. Niemczak replies yes.
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Commissioner Dawson asked if that was enough. Mr. Niemczak answered
that Ms. Riddle felt that it was.
Mr. Niemczak indicated that all pathways are accessible so plots could be
lowered if they had to.
Ms. Steele commented that Ms. Riddle spoke with Mr. Rosenblum, ADA
coordinator. Staff also spoke with Building and Safety, and they felt that
the one two feet plot would be adequate.
Chair Guyer asked if there is water there or other things that might be
needed. Mr. Niemczak responded that they are.
Chair Guyer asked if there was adequate parking. Mr. Niemczak
answered that there is parallel parking available along the soccer field.
Commissioner Barnard asked if the community garden is between the
soccer field and Country Club Drive. Mr. Niemczak replied that was
correct.
Commissioner Barnard asked if soccer balls would be kicked into the
garden. Ms. Steele responded that the fence is high, but there is still a
possibility that it could still go over.
Commissioner Barnard added that there is also a possibility that balls
could go onto Country Club Drive.
Ms. Steele reported that the owner of the industrial buildings located
adjacent to Freedom Park called, and requested if would be okay with the
City if they build a gate into their wall to enter the park. She noted that the
wall is part of their property. Staff let them know it was okay. Staff did
request that they contact the City when they are ready to move forward.
G. PARK INSPECTIONS
Ms. Steele informed the Commission to not forget to turn in their park
inspection sheets.
IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS
Commissioner Barnes asked where they stand in regards to baseball
fields for the next year, is there going to be enough. Ms. Steele responded
that it depends who you talk to; there is never enough. She indicated that
there is enough for the winter season, and that is assuming that no space
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is given to the high school. Staff is still working on that issue. She would
bring back additional information on reconstruction and how fields are
scheduled for the next Commission meeting.
Ms. Steele reported that baseball, football, and soccer have been
accommodated for the fall. She also reported that they are still working on
moving disc golf to a different night. During the summer they were playing
Wednesday nights, which worked out for them.
Ms. Steele noted that the ball fields at the high school are still available
until April 1, 2008. The school district must give the City a 120-day notice
to break the contract, which they have not done. She commented that she
would bring back to the Commission an update on what is happening with
the fields.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that the grass at the soccer park looked
really good. It seems like most people stayed off the grass when they
were supposed to. Mr. Niemczak noted that there are some areas that are
getting top-dressed.
Chair Guyer asked if the disc golf on Wednesday nights is ongoing. Ms.
Steele replied yes.
Ms. Steele mentioned that they have had some issues with some soccer
people using the soccer fields on Wednesday's nights during disc golf.
Park Patrol has been great at addressing the issue and letting the group
know. Staff is looking at moving the disc golfers to Saturday night.
Chair Guyer commented that he has heard that the disc golfers wanted a
period of time when they could play across the fields in addition to around
the fields. Ms. Steele responded that it was not true. They are only playing
around the course.
Vice Chair Schukart mentioned that there have been some individuals that
approached him about to arrange a different layout. He believes they are a
few individuals that are more into it and get bored with the course. He has
told the individuals that if nothing is scheduled, to go ahead and play
across but if someone shows up and takes the field; then they would have
to leave.
Ms. Steele stated that if the soccer people are not scheduled to be at the
soccer park, they do not work with the disc golfers. The soccer group is
more difficult to work with, but Staff is working on solving the issue.
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Chair Guyer commented that the soccer people have told him that they
have scheduled the fields. Ms. Steele responded that in April or May, she
met with Theron, CVRPD Sports Fitness/Wellness Director; Jeff and
Brenda from CVRPD, they schedule the fields; and all of the sports
organizations. They let the organizations know that it is going to be more
challenging to schedule fields. Staff explained to the organizations that
there is additional paperwork that they have to turn in, and that the City
also has a new form that they need to complete. Staff explained to the
organizations that they could not schedule any day in the fields without
turning in rosters. The rosters are supposed to have 50% Palm Desert
kids. Staff went through all the rules with the organizations.
Commissioner Dawson requested an update on the amphitheater. Ms.
Steele reminded the Commission that Councilman Spiegel recommended
at a City Council meeting to form a sub-committee (Benson and
Ferguson). Since the Council has been on vacation for the summer, Staff
will attempt to set up a meeting in September.
Commissioner Babcock commented that the last concert at the
amphitheater was fantastic.
Ms. Steele noted that Staff is going to discuss the possibility of moving the
concerts to the spring when weather is a little better.
Vice Chair Schukart asked if there is a time schedule for rough grading
across the street (College of the Desert) for the alleged aquatic center.
Ms. Steele responded no, but hopefully by the next City Council meeting.
Commissioner Dawson commented that the City Council recently
approved the budget. He asked if any decision was made concerning the
Palm Desert Sports Park. Chair Guyer responded that $30,000 was
budgeted for a community center study.
Ms. Steele clarified that the funds that were budgeted was actually
$300,000 for a feasibility study for a community center. As far as the park,
Ms. Steele is waiting for information from the City Manager.
Commissioner Dawson asked if there were any other budget approvals
that the Commission should know about. Ms. Steele replied no.
Chair Guyer asked if the community center is separate from the park. Ms.
Steele responded yes.
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Commissioner Barnard asked when the pool is going to the City Council.
Ms. Steele responded that it would go to the first meeting of September.
Commissioner Barnes asked for an update on the aquatic center. Ms.
Steele responded that the aquatic center would be going to the second
City Council meeting in September.
Commissioner Barnes asked what is going to the Council. Ms. Steele
replied the new design is going to the City Council.
Commissioner Barnes asked what is the new design. Ms. Steele
responded a competitive complex, which is the design that the City
Council requested.
Commissioner Barnes asked what is the complex that he is not aware of,
and commented that he is not sure if the rest of the Commission is aware
of the new design.
Chair Guyer interjected that it does not matter, and stated that the
Commission does not have a voice in it anymore. Commissioner Barnes
interjected that there is something wrong with the Commission, and the
position the Commission serves in the Palm Desert community if they are
not involved. He stated that this is another one of those deals such as the
golf course. The Commission was shut out on that project too.
Commissioner Barnes communicated that the Parks and Recreation
Commission are either involved in the aspects of parks and recreation,
and they either agree or disagree but the Commission should certainly be
given the voice to disagree if the Commission wants to. The Commission
should know what is going on and voice their opinions as Commissioners
whether the Commission agrees or disagrees with what the City Council
has decided they want to do without asking the Commission.
Chair Guyer voiced that the Commission has already done that.
Commissioner Barnes replied that they have not. He stated that if the City
Council came up with a new plan, the Council has not asked the
Commission. Chair Guyer responded that it was not the City Council's
intent to ask the Commission. The Council asked the Commission to
review the design, and the Commission reviewed the design and sent it
back to the City Council not recommending the competitive complex.
Commissioner Barnes stated that he does not agree with what the City
Council has come up with. Chair Guyer replied that the Commission has
already disagreed with the new design. Commissioner Barnes
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communicated that the City Council has come up with a new plan, and he
thinks that it is incumbent on the Commission to agree or disagree with
what the City Council has done involving Parks and Recreation in the City
of Palm Desert.
Commissioner Dawson commented that the way he understands it, after
the City Council reviews the new plan and the City Council makes a
decision, Staff would then bring it back to the Commission.
Ms. Steele stated that when the City Council packets go out, she would
send a copy of the staff report to the Commission at the same time. She
suggested that the Commission attend the City Council meeting and voice
their opinion. Commissioner Barnes interjected that he could come as a
resident and voice his opinion, but as a member of the Commission his
opinion should be recognized as part of the Commission and not at the
Council meeting.
Vice Chair Schukart commented that Staff could pull the City Council
meeting minutes, and they will find that the design that the Commission
approved and sent to the Council was rejected. The City Council then
ordered Staff to come back with a new design that would exclude the lazy
river, the slides, and other amenities that the City Council felt were
unnecessary in their view. In the end, the new design included a
competitive pool and a small pool for kids. He indicated that it is in writing
that the Commission does not approve of the new design, but frankly, the
City Council wanted to move forward without the Commission's blessing
and they have.
Commissioner Barnes understands that the City Council has changed
their original concept of what they wanted. If that is the case, he thinks it
should be told to the Commission of what they have done. They should
receive the Commission's stamp of approval or reject it as
Commissioner's, which is their duty as the Commission.
Commissioner Babcock commented that he thinks that they did not sell
the plan well.
Commissioner Barnes asked how much money has been spent on
requesting estimates from consultants. Ms Steele responded that Staff
has hired a contractor to redesign the pool. They have not asked for more
money at this time but will.
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Commissioner Barnes asked again, how much money has been spent.
Ms. Steele replied that the contract was approximately $600,000. The City
has not spent more than $200,000.
Commissioner Barnes asked how much it is going to cost to support the
pool at the College of the Desert. Chair Guyer responded that the City
Council does not care how much. Commissioner Barnes interjected that
he cares as a resident and a member of the Commission.
Chair Guyer stated the City Council is going to move on with their
decision, and the Commission now has to move on too.
Commissioner Barnes stated that the Commission should still have a
voice in saying what they think about what they are doing when it comes
to the final decision they have made as to what the pool should be.
Commissioner Barnes also stated that he still feels entitled to another
opinion as far as upholding the citizens of this community as to what they
wanted and what they are going to get.
Commissioner Barnes commented that he is still entitled to know the new
plan design. Ms. Steele responded that he would. She would send out the
staff report at the same time the City Council packets go out.
Commissioner Barnes complimented CVRPD for the brochure that was
sent out. He asked the District how many brochures do they send out. Mr.
Ford replied approximately 150,000.
The Commission agreed that it was a nice brochure.
X. ADJOURNMENT
Upon motion by Commissioner Barnard, seconded by Commissioner
Dawson, the meeting was adjourned at 9:45 a.m.
Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary
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