HomeMy WebLinkAboutPrelim - CC - 06/11/09 DR�►FT
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PRELIMINARY MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING
THURSDAY, JUNE 11, 2009
CIVIC CENTER COUNCIL CHAMBER
73510 FRED WARING DRIVE, PALM DESERT, CA 92260
I. CALL TO ORDER - 3:00 P.M.
II. ROLL CALL
Present:
Councilmember Jean M. Benson
Councilman Jim Ferguson
Mayor Pro Tem Cindy Finerty
Councilman Richard S. Kelly
Mayor Robert A. Spiegel
Also Present:
John M. Wohlmuth, City Manager/RDA Executive Director
David J. Erwin, City Attorney
Sheila R. Gilligan, ACM for Community Services
Homer Croy, ACM for Development Services
Justin McCarthy, ACM for Redevelopment
Stephen Y. Aryan, Assistant to the City Manager
Rachelle D. Klassen, City Clerk
Bo Chen, City Engineer
Russell Grance, Director of Building & Safety
Lauri Aylaian, Director of Community Development
Patrick Conlon, Director of the Office of Energy Management
J. Luis Espinoza, Acting Director of Finance/City Treasurer
Janet M. Moore, Director of Housing
Mark Greenwood, Director of Public Works
Frankie Riddle, Director of Special Programs
Ignacio Otero, Deputy Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire/Cal Fire
Dorian J. Cooley, Division Chief, Palm Desert Fire/Riverside Co. Fire/Cal Fire
Steve Brooker, Fire Marshal, Palm Desert Fire/ Riverside Co. Fire/Cal Fire
Andrew Shouse, Asst. Chief, Palm Desert Police/Riverside Co. Sheriff's Dept.
Grace L. Mendoza, Deputy City Clerk
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III. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - A (CLOSED SESSION ITEMS)
None
IV. ADJOURN TO CLOSED SESSION
Request for Closed Session:
Conference with Real Property Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
1) Property: Lease Property - Parkview Professional Office Complex,
73710 Fred Waring Drive, Suite No. 217, Palm Desert
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Paul S. Gibson/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: City of Palm Desert
Other Parties: Joe B. McMillin
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
2) Property: APN 637-180-026 (77930 Delaware Place)
Negotiating Parties:
Agency: John M. Wohlmuth/Lauri Aylaian/City of Palm Desert
Property Owner: James Olen Bullard
Under Negotiation: x Price x Terms of Payment
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant exposure to litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(b):
Number of potential cases: 2
Conference with Legal Counsel regarding significant potential to initiate litigation
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c):
Number of potential cases: 1
Conference with Legal Counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54957
regarding Employee Discipline/Dismissal/Release
Conference with Labor Negotiator pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.6:
Negotiating Party: John M. Wohlmuth/City of Palm Desert
Upon a motion by Finerty, second by Ferguson, and 5-0 vote of the City Council,
Mayor Spiegel adjourned the meeting to Closed Session at 3:01 p.m. He reconvened the
meeting at 4:00 p.m.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
V. RECONVENE REGULAR MEETING - 4:00 P.M.
A. REPORT ON ACTION FROM CLOSED SESSION.
None
VI. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE TO THE FLAG OF THE
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA - Counciimember Jean M. Benson
VII. INVOCATION - Councilman Richard S. Kelly
VIII. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS - B
None
IX. AWARDS, PRESENTATIONS, AND APPOINTMENTS
A. PRESENTATION OF$850,000 CHECK FROM CITY OF PALM DESERT TO
FOOD IN NEED OF DISTRIBUTION, INC., (FIND) FOR ITS ACQUISITION
OF A WAREHOUSE FACILITY.
Mayor Spiegel explained that two or three years ago former City Manager
Carlos Ortega, in agreement with the County, sold a piece of property
(adjacent to the Costco store)that was jointly owned by the City and County
and received $850,000. The money was not intended to add to the City's
coffers, butto help Food In Need of Distribution(FIND), an organization near
and dear to the Coachella Valley. He added that the current warehouse for
FIND was located in Cathedral City and was too small to store all the
supplies needed. He said a recent article in The Desert Sun showed how
many people in the Valley, specifically children, did go hungry. The Mayor
and all the Councilmembers presented the check to Mr. Sam Hook,
President of FIND.
B. INTRODUCTION OF THE PALM DESERT FIRE DEPARTMENT'S NEW
DIVISION CHIEF, DORIAN J. COOLEY.
Deputy Chief Otero introduced the new Division Fire Chief Dorian J. Cooley
who replaced former Chief Dennis Dawson. He said Chief Cooley was a
29-year veteran with the fire service and has lived in the Coachella Valley for
25 years. He said Chief Cooley will serve from La Quinta to Desert Hot
Springs, including the City of Palm Desert.
Mayor Spiegel welcomed Chief Cooley to the City of Palm Desert.
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Chief Cooley stated he looked forward to working with the wonderful City of
Palm Desert, and it was his pleasure to work with this Council and staff.
C. PRESENTATION TO RECOGNIZE CITY OF PALM DESERT/
PALM DESERT REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY EMPLOYEES FOR
EXEMPLARY SERVICE - MAY 2009.
Mayor Spiegel recognized Missy Grisa for her service above and beyond the
call of duty, specifically for her expertise as a LEED (Leadership in Energy
and Environmental Design)accredited individual and for using this credential
to the betterment of development in Palm Desert.
D. PRESENTATION OF THE GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS
ASSOCIATION'S "CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT FOR EXCELLENCE
IN FINANCIAL REPORTING" TO THE CITY OF PALM DESERT AND ITS
FINANCE DEPARTMENT.
Mr. Espinoza stated the"Certificate of Achievement of Excellence in Financial
Reporting" were given to cities that complied with the Government Finance
Officers Association of the United States and Canada (GFOA) requirements
and financial reporting. The cities receiving this award went above and
beyond the requirements and amendments to the audit, and Palm Desert
was one among the few that did.
X. CONSENT CALENDAR
A. MINUTES of the Adjourned Regular City Council Meeting of May 21, 2009,
and the Regular City Council Meeting of May 28, 2009.
Rec: Approve as presented.
B. CLAIMS AND DEMANDS AGAINST THE CITY TREASURY - Warrant
Nos. 257, 258, 262, 263, 265, 269, and 270.
Rec: Approve as presented.
C. CLAIMS AGAINST THE CITY (#s643A-B) by James Bourbon and
Misty Martinez in an Unspecified Amount.
Rec: By Minute Motion, reject the Claims and direct the City Clerk to so
notify the Claimants.
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D. APPLICATION FOR ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGE LICENSE by EI Ranchito
Taco Shop, 34-580 Monterey Avenue, Suite 103, Palm Desert.
Rec: Receive and file.
E. CITY COMMITTEE AND COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES.
1. Art In Public Places Commission Meeting of April 15, 2009.
2. Cultural Resources Preservation Committee Meeting of April 28,
2009.
3. Landscape Beautification Committee Meeting of March 18, 2009.
4. Marketing Committee Meeting of March 17, 2009.
5. Parks & Recreation Commission Meeting of May 5, 2009.
6. Public Safety Commission Meetings of March 11 and April 8, 2009.
7. Youth Committee Meeting of May 4, 2009.
Rec: Receive and file.
F. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Katie Pawelczyk — Youth Committee.
Rec: Receive with very sincere regret.
G. LETTER OF RESIGNATION from Ryan Sheehy— Youth Committee.
Rec: Receive with very sincere regret.
H. REQUEST FOR RESCISSION of the Declaration of Surplus Property,
Restoring Vehicle Number 221 (Shuttle Van) to the City Fleet Inventory.
Rec: By Minute Motion, rescind that portion of a Declaration of Surplus
Property involving Vehicle No. 221 (Shuttle Van), and restore it to the
City's Vehicle Fleet Inventory.
I. REQUEST FORAUTHORIZATION forthe Chairman to Execute a Quitclaim
Deed Conveying 1.88 Acres of Property from the Redevelopment Agency to
the City of Palm Desert and an Assignment and Assumption Agreement for
Same (Joint Consideration with the Palm Desert Redevelopment
Agency).
Rec: By Minute Motion, authorize: 1) Chairman to execute a Quitclaim
Deed conveying 1.88 acres of property from the Redevelopment
Agency to the City of Palm Desert and the Mayor to accept same on
behalf of the City; 2) Chairman to execute an Assignment and
Assumption Agreement between the Redevelopment Agency and the
City of Palm Desert for the property (Contract No. R26060A).
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
J. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of the Use of Genuine Parts Company (NAPA)
to Supply Aftermarket Automotive Parts,Tools, Equipment, and Services As
Needed for Fleet Maintenance - Fiscal Year 2009-2010.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the use of Genuine Parts Company
(NAPA) to supply general aftermarket automotive parts, tools,
equipment, and services, as needed, for FY 2009-2010 fleet
maintenance — funds are budgeted in General Fund Account
No. 110-4331-413-3340.
K. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Vendors for Equipment Rental Services for
Fiscal Year 2009-2010.
Rec: By Minute Motion, approve the use of Elms Equipment Rental, Inc.,
Clairemont Equipment, United Rentals, and Johnson Rental Services
to provide equipment rental services to the City for FY 2009-2010 —
funds are budgeted in General Fund Account
N o. 110-4310-433-3430.
L. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Proceed with the Bidding Process for
Purchase of Irrigation Equipment to Convert Solar and Standard Controllers
to "Smart" Capability.
Removed for separate consideration under Section XI, Consent Items Held
Over. Please see that portion of the Minutes for Council discussion and
action.
M. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT for City Parking Lot Sweeping
Services for Fiscal Year 2009-2010 (Contract No. C28840).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1)Award the subject contract for sweeping of City-
owned parking lots to CleanStreet, Gardena, California, in the amount
of $20,280 for FY 2009-2010; 2) authorize the Mayor to execute
same — funds are available in the General Fund Street Repair and
Maintenance Account, No. 110-4310-433-3320.
N. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Palm Desert ATHENA Scholarship Award
Agreement Between the City of Palm Desert and California State University,
San Bernardino (Contract No. C24304).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1) Approve the subject agreement between the
City of Palm Desert and California State University, San Bernardino,
to establish the 2009 Palm DesertATHENAAward Scholarship Fund;
2)authorize the City Manager to sign said agreement on behalf of the
City.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
O. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL of Amendment No. 3 to the AB2766
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) Between Coachella Valley
Association of Governments (CVAG) and Member Jurisdictions for the
Purposes of Regional PM10 Air Quality Programs and Other Related
Services (Contract No. C22643).
Rec: By Minute Motion: 1)Approve Amendment No. 3 to the subject MOU
between CVAG and MemberJurisdictions forthe purposes of regional
PM10 Air Quality Programs and other related Air Quality Services;
2) authorize the City Manager to execute Amendment No. 3 to the
MOU.
P. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Release Improvement Security for
Pointe Monterey II (Precise Plan No. 06-02) and Accept a One-year
Maintenance Bond (Pacific Pointe Partners, Inc., Applicant).
Rec: By Minute Motion, release the improvement security for Pointe
Monterey II (PP 06-02) and accept a one-year Maintenance Bond in
its place.
Q. REQUEST FOR EXTENSION of Maintenance Contract with Southwest
Aquatics, Inc., for Civic Center Park Lagoon and Entrada del Paseo Water
Feature (Contract No. C27821).
Rec: By Minute Motion, extend the subject Maintenance Contract for Civic
Center Park Lagoon and Entrada del Paseo Water Feature in the
amount of $19,140 with Southwest Aquatics, Inc., Palm Desert,
California, and authorize the Mayor to execute same — funds are
available in General Fund Account Nos. 110-4610-453-3320 and
110-4614-453-3370.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty requested Item L be removed for separate action
under Section XI, Consent Items Held Over.
Upon a motion by Ferguson, second by Finerty, and 5-0 vote of the City Council,the
remainder of the Consent Calendar was approved as presented.
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REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
XI. CONSENT ITEMS HELD OVER
L. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION to Proceed with the Bidding Process for
Purchase of Irrigation Equipment to Convert Solar and Standard Controllers
to "Smart" Capability.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty stated she was happy the City was moving forward
with the "Smart" capability for City irrigation controllers; however, it was
brought to her attention the City had an opportunity to participate in a Smart
Router Meter Program, which would be energy saving because the pumping
charges would be less, and a second bonus would be water conservation.
She was told this program would be a partnership with Coachella Valley
Water District(CVW D)and $20,000 would be budgeted in the same General
Fund account number. She would like to add $20,000 to the
recommendation to include all of the Smart capability.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize staff to proceed with
the bidding process for purchase of irrigation equipment that will convert solar and
standard irrigation controllers to "Smart" capability, in an amount of$54,000, and $20,000
for the purchase of additional equipment as part of the Smart Router Meter Program for
a total amount not to exceed $74,000 — funds are available in General Fund Account
No. 110-4614-453-3915, Special Programs-Water Conservation, and Capital Reserve
Fund Account No. 400-4645-433-4001. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried
by a 5-0 vote.
XII. RESOLUTIONS
A. RESOLUTION NO. 09-36 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, FINDING A SEVERE FISCAL
HARDSHIP WILL EXIST IF ADDITIONAL LOCAL PROPERTYTAX FUNDS
ARE SEIZED AND ADDITIONAL UNFUNDED MANDATES ARE ADOPTED
BY THE STATE OF CALIFORNIA.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 09-36. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
Mayor Spiegel stated the State was attempting to take money from cities
throughout California in a time when all cities were having problems. He said
it was tough times, but it was not money the State should have.
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B. RESOLUTION NO. 09-37 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA,SUPPORTING LEGISLATIVE
EFFORTS BY THE SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT
DISTRICT (AQMD) TO OVERTURN THE STATE SUPERIOR COURT
RULING RELATIVE TO ISSUANCE OF AIR QUALITY PERMITS.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 09-37. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
C. RESOLUTION NO. 09-38 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, AUTHORIZING THE LEVY
OF A SPECIAL TAX IN COMMUNITY FACILITIES DISTRICT NO. 2005-1
(UNIVERSITY PARK) FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 09-38.
Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
D. RESOLUTION NO. 09-39 - A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITYOF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ORDERING THE LEVYAND
COLLECTION OF A SPECIAL TAX FOR THE CITY OF PALM DESERT
FIRE TAX PURSUANT TO CITY ORDINANCE NO. 223, FISCAL
YEAR 2009-2010.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution
No. 09-39. Motion was seconded by Kelly.
Mayor Spiegel stated he personally felt it was the wrong time to raise taxes
on people even though the amount was minimal. He knew the City would
receive additional fire support, but he didn't think it was a good idea to
increase taxes.
Councilman Ferguson agreed with Mayor Spiegel's comment, stating this
issue came before the Cove Community Services Commission in 2001, and
when the City originally adopted the Fire Tax, the range was between $48
and $60; the City adopted the minimum, which was $48. The City was now
asking for an increase of$12/year, $1/month for$150,000 compared to the
City's fire expenditures,which was in the millions. He didn't want to go down
as one who raised taxes, even if it was just $1.00.
Councilman Kelly stated he had in his possession a copy of the Ordinance
that was passed in the 1970's. He said it was a popular measure that was
passed by 68%, and at that time, the City had a problem with coverage of fire
and no paramedics. He said this measure was on the ballot to provide
paramedic service, and the City was now adding a new paramedic unit. He
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said neighboring cities had long ago raised their fire tax to the maximum,
which was$60. When he thought about the service that the paramedics had
given to the City of Palm Desert over the years since the measure was
passed, and the fact that the City didn't have the problems it had today
because it held off in increasing its fire tax. He said the citizens voted for a
maximum tax of $60 in the beginning, and he believed this was the
appropriate time to increase the fire tax because the City was facing a
reduction of sales tax and hotel tax and believed the increase should help
solve some of the City's budget problems.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty stated the City was in need of a new medic unit
because of the extensive growth; the City's population when the fire tax was
first adopted was 11,800 and it was now more than 50,000. She went on to
say approval of the increase did not require a vote of the people because at
that time, the range could have been anywhere between $48 and $60. She
said the cost to take someone to the hospital in an ambulance was about
$600. She said it seemed for a medic unit to be able to render service in
less than five minutes across the entire City, and only pay $1.00 per
household, was the reason she was in favor of the increase, because you
couldn't buy better medical service.
Councilmember Benson stated that over the years this issue had come up,
and the Council had agreed they wouldn't increase the tax until it was
needed. She believed this was one of the times that it was needed, and
after holding steady for more than 30 years, no one will object if they knew
the value of paramedic services. Monthly City reports indicate more than
1,000 paramedic trips from Palm Desert to Eisenhower, which was
phenomenal.
Councilman Ferguson stated that when the City entered this fiscal year with
a budget deficit, it was odd, because since it was incorporated it always had
a surplus. The City had to come up with a list of priorities on how it would
meet its projected deficit, and the Council came up with a list that was
absolutely sacrosanct, like public services, police services, fire, and
ambulance services. The City found that it wouldn't fire any employees,
which it didn't do, but it did establish a hiring freeze; the Council wished to
_ keep its core personnel to continue to provide good service. He said the City
has a huge reserve, but the Council decided it wouldn't be touched because
it wouldn't be prudent fiscal management. At the bottom of that, at least in
his mind, asking residents to pay more fire tax when the City had more than
a $60 million reserve, even though it was only$1.00/month, was ridiculous.
Mayor Spiegel called for the vote, and the motion carried by a 3-2 vote, with
Ferguson and Spiegel voting NO.
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NOTE:
Councilman Kelly stated that since the Council was on the subject of public
safety, he felt there was some confusion about the police budget. He
proposed an item be placed on the agenda for discussion about the public
safety budget before the next City Council meeting, so that all
Councilmembers understood exactly what transpired at the public safety
meeting.
Councilman Ferguson asked if other questions relating to the budget could
be asked at this meeting, because he believed the Council had been
expecting another budget meeting, but then it suddenly changed.
Councilman Kelly was in agreement that other budget related questions
could be asked and suggested having a meeting the following Thursday.
Mr. Erwin suggested adjourning this meeting and posting the agenda.
Councilman Kelly stated it was important that it be a regular City Council
meeting where decisions could be made.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, agree to adjourn this meeting to
Thursday, June 18, 2009, at 4:00 p.m., to discuss the Public Safety budget and any other
budget related issues. Motion was seconded by Ferguson, and carried by a 5-0 vote.
XIII. ORDINANCES
For Introduction:
None
For Adoption:
A. ORDINANCE NO. 1185 - AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF
THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 8.21 TO
THE CODE OF THE CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA, REGARDING
MAINTENANCE OF ABANDONED PROPERTIES.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt Ordinance
No. 1185. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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XIV. NEW BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF FUNDS FOR ANNUAL COMPUTER
MAINTENANCE BY SUNGARD PUBLIC SECTOR IN THE AMOUNT OF
$64,146.82.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty moved to, by Minute Motion, approve payment of an invoice
to Sungard Public Sector in the amount of $64,146.82 for annual computer software
maintenance — funds are available in Account No. 110-4190-415-3360. Motion was
seconded by Ferguson.
Mayor Spiegel asked if the City went out to bid for this item.
Mr. Espinoza explained that this item covered the maintenance for the
accounting software, which also included Building & Safety and Public
Works. Further responding, he said the City will continue with Sungard until
it decided to go with another software company.
Mayor Spiegel called for the vote, and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote.
B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE USE OF SPECIFIC AUTOMOTIVE
FACILITIES FOR SUPPLEMENTAL GENERAL FLEET REPAIRS IN AN
AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $75,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the use of Hovley
Automotive, Palm Desert, California, as the primary source for those General Fleet Repair
Services that cannot be accomplished by the City's Mechanic, and Ozzie's Automotive,
Palm Desert, California, as an alternative source in an amount not to exceed $75,000 for
FY 2009-2010 — funds budgeted in General Fund Account No. 110-4331-413-3340.
Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE PURCHASE OF GAS AND DIESEL
FUEL FROM SPECIFIC VENDORS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$125,000 FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, approve the purchase of gas and
diesel fuel from The SoCo Group, Inc., Carlsbad, California, and Lee Escher Oil Co., Inc.,
Coachella, California, for FY 2009-2010 in an amount not to exceed $125,000—funds are
budgeted in General Fund Account No. 110-4331-413-2170. Motion was seconded by
Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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D. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR COMMERCIAL AND
RESIDENTIAL STREET SWEEPING SERVICE FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2009-2010 (CONTRACT NO. C28820).
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1)Award the subject contract
to CleanStreet, Gardena, California, in the amount of $28.45/curb mile (approx.
$175,013/year) to provide sweeping services for City-owned residential and commercial
streets for FY 2009-2010; 2) authorize the Mayor to execute the contract — funds are
available in the Street Repair and Maintenance Account, No. 110-4310-433-3320. Motion
was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF CONTRACTS FOR BUILDING PLAN
REVIEW AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, award the subject Plan
Review/Inspection Services contracts for FY 2009-2010(July 1, 2009-June 30, 2010)and
authorize the Mayorto execute each, not exceeding a total of$60,000 to: 1)Scott Fazekas
& Associates, Irvine, California (Contract No. C29040A); 2) Interwest Consulting Group,
Long Beach, California (Contract No. C29040B); 3) Willdan Engineering, Anaheim,
California (Contract No. C29040C) — funds are budgeted in General Fund Account
No. 110-4420-422-3010. Motion was seconded by Ferguson.
Responding to question, Mr. Grance responded the current contracts were
in place to supplement staff's ability to provide a service in Plan Review and
Inspection Services with complex projects. The City normally renewed these
contracts, but they were due to expire. Staff conducted a Request For
Proposal process and selected three vendors. Further responding, he said
staff was using the services on a very limited basis.
Mayor Spiegel called for the vote, and the motion carried by a 5-0 vote.
F. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT TO CONTRERAS
CONSTRUCTION COMPANY FOR CONSTRUCTION OF THE PORTOLA
AVENUE SIDEWALK EXTENSION, MAGNESIA FALLS DRIVE TO
WHITEWATER RIVER BRIDGE (CONTRACT NO. C29020, PROJECT
NO. 657-08).
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1)Award the subject contract
to Contreras Construction Company, Indio, California, in the amount of $196,928 for
Construction of the Portola Avenue Sidewalk Extension, Magnesia Falls Drive to
Whitewater River Bridge; 2) approve a 10% contingency for the project in the amount of
$19,693; 3) authorize the Mayor to execute the subject agreement — Capital Project
Reserve Funds are available in Portola Avenue at Whitewater Bridge Account,
No. 400-4359-433-4001. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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G. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT TO REFURBISH TENANT
IMPROVEMENTS AT THE PARKVIEW PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
COMPLEX, 73-710 FRED WARING DRIVE, SUITE NO. 102, IN THE
AMOUNT OF $61,476 (CONTRACT NO. C29050).
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion, award the bid and approve the
subject contractwith Woodburn Construction,Arcadia,California, in the amount of$61,476
to refurbish the tenant improvements at Suite No. 102 of the Parkview Office Complex —
funds are available in Account No. 510-4195-495-3370. Motion was seconded by Benson
and carried by a 5-0 vote.
H. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO SUBMIT APPLICATION FOR
FEDERAL RECOVERY ACT - ENERGY EFFICIENCY AND
CONSERVATION BLOCK GRANTS (EECBG).
Senior Management Analyst Ryan Stendell requested to add an additional
project to the Application. The cost is $8,000 to replace a new photovoltaic
system on top of three courtesy carts on EI Paseo. He said it was a new
product that will do several things; extend the life of the carts by 50 to 100
percent, double the time that the carts can be on the street, and extend the
battery life. The staff report represented a figure above what staff felt the
projects would cost, so the numbers would just be adjusted to include this
project. The total amount the City could request was $529,000, which was
what staff was still aiming for.
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion, authorize the City Manager to
sign and submit the necessary documentation for submittal of the 2009 EECBG, with the
Application to include an additional project to install a solar photovoltaic system on top of
the three courtesy carts on EI Paseo. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0
vote.
I. CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATION BY THE ARCHITECTURAL
REVIEW COMMISSION TO AMEND CHAPTER 8.40.040, 8.40.050, AND
8.40.055 OF THE PALM DESERT MUNICIPAL CODE - RECREATIONAL
VEHICLES.
Responding to question, Assistant Planner Missy Grisa said there had been
influx of cases that came to the Architectural Review Commission (ARC)
regarding Recreational Vehicles(RV). She said RV cases are required to go
through the ARC for screening purposes, which have proven to be a
challenge when trying to find the balance for residents who don't have RV's
but had to look at them, and those who want to store them on their property.
Recently, quite a few cases had come through the ARC, and some of the
terms mentioned in the Code like "substantially screened" or "adequately
screened" don't provide hard definitions, which made it difficult for the ARC
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to determine how high an RV should be screened or how wide the space for
storage needed to be. Staff has researched other cities that provide more
specifics as to the regulations on how one can park an RV in residential
property. Further responding, she said the findings will be brought back to
the City Council.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, proceed with research of a
more definitive Recreational Vehicle (RV) storage and screening Code to report to the
Architectural Review Commission (ARC), and upon ARC approval, present a revised draft
Ordinance to the City Council for adoption. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried
by a 5-0 vote.
J. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR MARKETING SERVICES
IN THE AMOUNT OF $144,000 TO FULL GALLOP MARKETING
COMMUNICATIONS (CONTRACT NO. C29060).
Marketing Manager Kristy Kneiding said this was a one-year agreement, and
staff was combining the on-line and off-line services for a significant savings.
Mayor Spiegel stated he knew quite a few companies were researched and
wondered if staff would go out to bid next year.
Ms. Kneiding responded that it depended on what the results ended up being
for this year because it was financially based. She said staff was willing to
go out to bid next year if thaYs what was requested.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Concur with the Marketing
Committee's recommendation and award the subject contract to Full Gallop Marketing
Communications in the amount of $144,000 for Marketing Services, Fiscal Year 2009-
2010; 2) authorize the Mayor to execute the agreement on behalf of the City—funds have
been budgeted in General Fund Account Nos. 110-4417-414-3215 and
110-4417-414-3223. Motion was seconded by Spiegel and carried by a 3-2 vote, with
Ferguson and Finerty voting NO.
K. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST FOR FUNDING TO SPONSOR
FASHION WEEK EL PASEO - MARCH 2O10.
Marketing Manager Kristy Kneiding offered to answer questions. She noted
representatives from Palm Springs Life were present and others in the
audience that wished to speak to the Council.
MR. DAVID FLETCHER, EI Paseo, Palm Desert, thanked the Council for
their support with Fashion Week. He said events like Fashion Week couldn't
be viewed on the success of the event itself, because the amount of
advertising both in public relations and direct advertising, that took place in
the height of the season, had a significant impact on the success of the
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stores during this economy. He said hopefully it will be a better season next
year and requested that the City Council's support Fashion Week once
again.
Responding to question about the recommendation, Ms. Kneiding said the
Marketing Committee was adamant that they were interested in suggesting
$75,000, however, staff recommended $50,000. Further responding, she
confirmed the Council had indicated in their budget meeting that they would
support $50,000 for Fashion Week.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion, concur with staff's
recommendation to sponsor the 2010 Fashion Week EI Paseo event in the amount of
$50,000. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Finerty voting
NO.
XV. CONTINUED BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN "ARTIST
SHOWCASE" CONCERT SERIES IN CIVIC CENTER PARK (Continued
from the meeting of May 21, 2009).
Councilman Ferguson moved to, by Minute Motion continue the item to the meeting
of June 25, 2009. Motion was seconded by Spiegel and carried by a 4-1 vote, with Finerty
voting NO.
XVI. OLD BUSINESS
A. REQUEST FOR AUTHORIZATION TO REJECT ALL BIDS FOR THE
RECYCLED WATER FILTRATION SYSTEM AT DESERT WILLOW AND
APPROVAL OF SOLE SOURCE VENDOR FOR THE PROJECT
(CONTRACT NO. C28790).
Mayor Spiegel asked why all the bids were being rejected.
Redevelopment Manager Martin Alvarez responded that after the bid
process, staff discovered some ambiguity in the specifications that would
allow bidders to provide alternate products that would not be compatible with
the existing pump stations. Staff recommended that all bids be rejected, fix
the specifications, and rebid the project using a sole source.
Councilman Ferguson moved to: 1) By Minute Motion, reject all bids received for
the Recycled Water Filtration System at Desert Willow and authorize staff to rebid the
project;2)waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 09-40, authorizing a sole source
for the Desert Willow Filtration Upgrade Project in order to ensure compatibility with the
existing system. Motion was seconded by Benson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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B. REQUEST FOR AWARD OF DESIGN/BUILD CONTRACT FOR THE
CIVIC CENTER PARK AMPHITHEATER TO DOUG WALL
CONSTRUCTION, INC., IN THE AMOUNT OF $397,645 (CONTRACT
NO. C28860).
Parks and Facilities Manager Jay Niemczak stated that all proposals for the
Amphitheater Design/Build project were reviewed and evaluated, and staff
submitted a recommendation as noted in the staff report. He offered to
answer any questions.
Mayor Spiegel asked if some of the cost would be covered by the City's
insurance.
Mr. Niemczak stated that $215,000 would be received from the insurance;
however, if the structure was found to be damaged after inspection, that
figure might change. Further responding, he confirmed the project will end
up costing the City about$185,000, and the plan was to complete the project
by Christmas.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty asked at what point was the Structural Engineer
going to inspect the structure to determine the damage.
Mr. Niemczak said he expected the engineerto inspect for damage when the
current structure was being removed. At which time, the engineer is to
determine if it was a channel defect or damage to the structure. Further
responding, he said he knew the fabric would be covered by the insurance,
but whether or not the structure itself would be covered was unknown at this
time.
Mayor Spiegel stated the City would be covered for $215,000 of the
$397,000 cost of the project. Responding to question about the design, he
said Councilmember Benson and Councilman Ferguson were on the
committee that chose the new design.
Councilmember Benson said the chosen design was a far cry from what was
proposed for$1.5 million for a golden tree.
Councilmember Benson moved to, by Minute Motion: 1) Determine that MG
Enterprises, Inc., and Zeus Construction bids are non-responsive; 2) award the subject
Design/Build Contract for the Civic Center Park Amphitheater to Doug Wall Construction,
Inc., Bermuda Dunes, California, in an amount not to exceed $397,645, and authorize the
Mayor to execute same — funds are available in the Civic Center Amphitheater Account,
No. 233-4668-454-4001. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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XVII. PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. CONSIDERATION OF THE APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT #1 TO A
PRECISE PLAN OF DESIGN, INCLUDING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT
AND FIRST AMENDMENTS TO DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENTS, TO
ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A NEW 42,539 SQUARE-FOOT, SINGLE-
STORY RETAIL AND RESTAURANT DEVELOPMENT WITH THE
ADOPTION OF AN ADDENDUM TO THE APPROVED MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION AS RELATES TO THE PROJECT—SUBJECT
PROPERTIES LOCATED AT 73-545 EL PASEO (GARDENS ON EL
PASEO,APN 627-261-006)AND 73-425 EL PASEO(EL PASEO VILLAGE,
APNs 627-252-004, -005) Case Nos. PP 07-10. CUP 07-18. DA 07-03 and
DA 07-04 Amendments #1 (Davis Street Land Company, Applicant).
Senior Management Analyst Ryan Stendell noted the Council was shown the
revised project at the Study Session of May 21, 2009, and has remained
unchanged from what was presented at that time. Since then, staff began
a series of discussions with the developer in an attempt to get the project to
this point. He said staff had documentation that provided for a Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certified EI Paseo Village and
a roof-mounted photovoltaic (PV) solar system that is conditioned to power
100% of the common landlord-controlled spaces, including storage spaces
and decorative lighting on the site. After analyzing the project with the
addition of the PV system, staff was recommending approval of the
previously approved $750,000 contribution to the project in consideration for
the public parking easement to the rear of the building, as well as for the
sustainability features the City requested. Subsequently, staff asked the
developers to conduct their own analysis of the construction cost on the
sustainability features, and their memo which was handed out this evening
to the Council, indicated they met the LEED criteria; the photovoltaic (PV)
system would be a $900,000 addition to the project. The Applicant was
comfortable with the $750,000 contribution previously proposed by the City.
Staff believed this was an important project for EI Paseo because it provided
two things: expansion of Saks Fifth Avenue, which was the anchor at The
Gardens, and it would provide an entire new block of high-end retail with a
ground-floor restaurant between San Pablo and Lupine Lane. The analyses
by both staff and the project development team was that between sales tax
and property tax revenues, this project could be worth approximately $400-
to $500,000 per year to the City's General Fund. Staff was recommending
approval of the project with the requested components by the City Council,
which are listed in the staff report that include the proposed Resolution
describing the planning case, and the Ordinance that would approve the first
amendments to two existing development agreements that were put in place
when the project was first approved last year. He said staff and the
development team were present to answer questions.
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Councilman Kelly asked at which corner would the floor restaurant be
located.
Mr. Stendell responded it would be located on the western corner.
Councilman Kelly was concerned that when the restaurant was in and
installed that the valet parking would wind up taking up the most exclusive
parking spaces like at The Gardens.
Mr. Stendell replied that valet parking was addressed in the original
entitlements with the Parking Management Plan, which was part of the
package that Council was being asked to approve with the first amendment.
In the first plan, it was his understanding that if there was any valet parking,
the least desirable parking spaces would be used. Further responding, he
said Councilman Kelly's concerns could easily be addressed if necessary.
Councilmember Benson stated that staff's recommendation still included a
City contribution of $750,000 for a smaller one-floor building. She thought
the contribution should be cut down proportionally as well.
Mr. Stendell said he couldn't get into too much detail about paring down the
building, although he did know it was much more difficult on the developer
to achieve LEED design with the new configurations because of the loss of
square footage. Therefore, in the analysis now, staff was fully comfortable
that the$750,000 would get the project to LEED certification, which included
the parking easement and other items outlined in the staff report. Staff
believed $750,000 was a solid number for what the City was asking the
developer to do. He said the project was moving at such a pace that no one
really analyzed the full construction cost or understood what kind of an
infusion LEED would be to the project, but staff was saying that $750,000
penciled to get the developer to those sustainability features.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited testimony IN FAVOR
or in OPPOSITION to this project.
MS. SARAH O'FLYNN stated she was the Marketing Director at The
Gardens on EI Paseo, and also Vice-Chair for the Palm Desert Chamber of
Commerce, which was now a "Five-star Chamber of Commerce." She said
Barbara deBoom graciously sent a statement in support of the EI Paseo
Village. She read the prepared statement, which was now on file with the
City Clerk.
MR. DAVID FLETCHER stated that as another developer for a long time on
EI Paseo, constructing anything in this environment was extremely difficult
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and expensive. He said the vacant lot that existed now on EI Paseo was
challenging for some of the merchants, and it was making the street less
inviting for people to shop. He said it was a credit to the incredible area and
the reputation that EI Paseo had achieved for a developer to be coming out
of the ground with a project at this time; there are very few projects being
initiated in this environment. Understanding money was tight, he strongly
recommended that the Council support this project every way that it could.
MR. PAUL ANDERSON with Kennerly, Lamishaw & Rossi, LLP, stated he
was legal counsel forthe Applicant. He introduced the members of the Davis
Street team that were present this evening: General Manager of The
Gardens Bob Fliday, Project Architect Gary Dempster, and Parking
Consultant Trisa Allen. He said Mr. Stendell did a great job of explaining
where the project was and where it was to date, so he would start by
responding to an earlier question by Councilman Kelly about valet parking.
He said the current Parking Management Plan, which was approved last
summer, provided for a cooperation between the City and the developer as
to those parking spaces. Even though the building wasn't built yet, once the
project reached that phase, the team will make sure that premier parking
spots wouldn't be over loaded with valet parking. He believed it will be much
easier to make the adjustment now with the revised project because it was
only a surFace lot. In response to Councilmember Benson's comment about
the City's original investment of$750,000 and whether it was still applicable
for a reduced-sized project, he said the money that the City participated was
devoted toward the parking by providing 150 parking spaces for public use.
He said the parking spaces would remain the same, even with the
reduced-sized project, and at the same time the sustainability features were
enhanced as described by Mr. Stendell. He said the proposed project will
not only comply with LEED, but a solar component was added,which was an
excess of what the City requested at the May Study Session. He said
Assistant Planner Missy Grisa should get kudos for working with
Mr. Dempster in figuring out exactly what this project could support, and it
appeared the project was on a path toward LEED for Core & Shell Rating
System. He said the central building roof structure can support solar to a
degree that will support all of the landlord-controlled areas, including the
paseos and parking lot. He thought the combination of features, even
though it was a reduced-size building, still justified the City's investment.
Responding to question about the installation of rooftop solar versus solar
carports, he said carport structures were not as solid or supportable for the
type of solar panels they were designing. He said if they constructed a
carport similar to what the City currently had, the project would lose parking
spaces, so they added more trees, which was 20% more of a buffer between
the project's parking field and the condo's to the rear. In exchange, they
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would install solar on the roof to make sure the project received all the
sustainability/energy that it could have.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty asked Mr. Stendell if there was a carport structure
that included an all-in-one.
Mr. Stendell stated he believed there were integrated carport solar system
structures available, but he didn't know their cost. However, in his discussion
with the developer, a roof-mount would provide a cleaner job for conduit
wiring into the electrical rooms. From a maintenance standpoint, the
developer wouldn't have to deal with underground trenches or lines running
underneath the surface lot. Responding to question about the capacity of
the proposed PV solar system, he said the developer had indicated they
would install a 40,000 kilowatt (40kW) system, which was more than what
was needed. Further responding, he confirmed the Director of Energy
Management Pat Conlon had reviewed the project.
Mr. Conlon agreed with Mr. Stendal that 40kW may be too much for the
amount of lighting the project had in their common areas, especially if they
were investigating LEED certification. He suspected new technology lighting
and LED lights would be used as opposed to the traditional lights. He felt the
jury was out regarding the size of the solar system, because if the
instructions of the City Council are that the project pick up 100% of its
common area loads, staff will make that happen with an appropriate size
solar system. If the Feed-in Tariff(FiT) comes to fruition, the project will be
in a position to get money back from Southern California Edison (SCE).
Responding to question, he said the Applicant would not be able to sell their
excess capacity to their tenants. However,there was a new law that was just
passed last week that allowed the excess capacity/credit to be rolled over for
two years instead of just one year.
Councilman Ferguson asked if the City wanted to keep it at 40kW, it could
request it.
Mr. Conlon stated he would rather have the City give the Applicant direction
to pick up all the common area loads with solar. He felt the City should wait
to find out what the electrical loads will be and then design a system that was
appropriate. He said if a 40,000 kilowatts (40kW) system was installed and
the project only needed 20,000 kilowatts (20kW), under the current law, it
would be money wasted. However, under the Feed-in Tariff the project
would get money back. Further responding, he agreed depending on how
the building was designed, an additional 20kW system could be added.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty asked what was the difference in cost between a
20kW and a 40kW solar system.
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Mr. Conlon responded a 20kW solar system combined with the California
Solar Initiative (CSI) rebate, and Investment Tax Credit (ITC), not including
prevailing wages, could run about$150,000; therefore, a 40kW would be up
to $300,000. Mr. Stendell concurred.
With no furthertestimony offered, MayorSpiegel declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Kelly stated the revised project did not remove the revenue
producing part of the development, and on that basis he was in favor of the
City's $750,000 contribution. He said the parking plan appeared to be a
good one because it included golf cart and hybrid vehicle parking spaces. He
said the revised single-story project was better than the originally proposed
two-story plan, and the pay back to the City was the same.
Councilmember Benson stated she didn't have additional comments, only
that it seemed a little out of line to contribute the same amount to the project.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty stated she liked the revised project more than the
original one because it wasn't one huge block, and the height of the building
would be lower that the mountains can still be seen and delighted it turned
out this way. However, she was concerned the City would contribute the
same$750,000 to the project, which was why she questioned the size of the
solar system. She said if the project only needed 20kW versus 40kW, which
was a savings of$150,000, she thought it would be beneficial to wait until it
was known how many kilowatts would be needed before locking into the
$750,000 amount, because the City could potentially save $150,000.
Councilman Ferguson said he needed more concrete details on the type of
LEED certification the Applicant would be providing.
Mr. Stendell explained that LEED certified was the entry level certification for
certified silver, gold, and platinum. He said the Applicant met the LEED
Certified core and shell 2.0 or 3.0, which was more of a bronze certification.
Councilman Ferguson said he thought at the May Study Session the project
was a couple of points away from reaching gold.
Mr. Stendell responded the project was never a couple of points away from
gold, but arguably if one looked at the Applicant's matrix, it would be a hard
path to silver, understanding the difficulty of those points. Staff was
comfortable supporting certified with a mandatory submittal knowing that
there was actually a possibility that they could get silver. Staff was willing to
hold them to the silver certified based on what staff knew of the system,
which was the recommendation of both the City's and Applicant's LEED
personnel.
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Assistant Planner Missy Grisa replied she was comfortable with the project
reaching the certified level as discussed in the Study Session. The Applicant
was a few points short of achieving the certified level under the 3.0 version,
which was just passed. However, the 2.0 version had a different point
system, which placed the Applicant in a higher position. Staff allowed the
Applicant the ability to choose between version 2.0 and 3.0 based on them
saying they had already submitted an application under the 2.0 version;
otherwise, they would have to work under the 3.0 version. Further
responding, she said the Applicant was a few points short of silver certified
under the 2.0 version.
Councilman Kelly said there was some discussion that solar panels couldn't
be counted toward LEED, but it did mean a lot to the City if solar was
installed. He wondered if the City was better off having a bronze equivalency
certification and solar panels, or was it better off with no solar panels and
LEED certification.
Ms. Grisa responded she believed the City wanted both because the solar
panels would contribute to its energy efficiency goal, and a LEED certified
building would be another great attribute to the City. Further responding, she
said the City would be better off with a bronze certification and solar panels.
Councilman Kelly stated if the City had everything, naturally that would be
better, but if he had to choose, he would choose to have the solar panels.
Ms. Grisa stated she understood the Council was worried about the cost
associated with LEED and the money the City would be contributing to the
project, but the contribution to the solar panels would be a big attribute to the
LEED certification, which was the largest cost. Some of the items listed in
the developer's cost assessment were already part of the original proposed
project and wouldn't necessarily go above and beyond the premium for
LEED, but she thought the amount proposed was adequate to achieve LEED
certification.
Mayor Spiegel stated LEED certification was important, but that was not all
the project was about. He said this project would bring businesses to the
City of Palm Desert and retail was the City's number one resource for the
General Fund. He said the proposed stores were not 99 cent stores, but
rather high-class additions to the City of Palm Desert from a retail standpoint.
The fact that this project could get started in late October or early November,
during a time when people were down because of the economy, would be a
plus for the City.
Councilman Ferguson agreed the revised plan looked better as a one-story
building, and he also agreed that a lot of nonrevenue producing space was
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eliminated from a financial standpoint. He said LEED certification was
important because of the City's goal to cut consumption by 30% and
understood the projectwas already meeting the City's advanced Commercial
Ordinance Title 24. He personally would like additional solar to be installed,
because he believed the Feed-in Tariff was coming, but at a minimum, the
common areas need to be covered as suggested by the Director of Energy
Management and leaving space for when the State started paying the
Applicant for energy as opposed to the other way around. As to the Mayor's
point, he believed there were stores that would only come here if it was an
environmental green building that was LEED certified. He had a good idea
that one of the tenant, which the developer refused to mention, would only
move into a green building. He said socially conscious people shopped only
in retail stores where the goods were made in third world countries or where
made in humane countries with good human righYs record. He said to that
degree, he believed it added to the upscale nature of EI Paseo because it
incorporated everything that was great about this community, which was the
high-end stores and sensitivity to the environment. He said whether it was
$750,000 or$500, if the City was getting its bank for its dollar, he really didn't
care what the figure was, but what he was hearing from staff was that
$750,000 was reasonable.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and, subject to all the
attached conditions: 1) Adopt Resolution No. 09-41, approving Case Nos. PP 07-10 and
CUP 07-18; 2) pass Ordinance No. 1186 to second reading, approving Amendments #1
to each of Case Nos. DA 07-03 and DA 07-04, with added/amended conditions to include:
a)Valet parking spaces to be designated to the rear of the IoUbuilding; b)Photovoltaic(PV)
system to cover all of the common areas and the landlord-controlled areas to the greatest
extent possible. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 5-0 vote.
B. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE FINAL ENGINEER'S REPORT AND
ORDER TO LEVY FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010 FOR THE
PALM DESERT DRAINAGE BASIN MAINTENANCE ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT NO. 01.
Senior Management Analyst Ryan Stendell stated that the following five
items under public hearing dealt with the annual public hearings for the
landscape lighting districts. This item was for the Palm Desert Drainage
Basin Maintenance forAssessment District No. 1,which included Section 29
area of the north end. The law required the City to hold a public hearing, and
this District reflected a 3% cost of living increase as allowed by this District.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited anyone wishing to
address the City Council on this matter to come forward at this time. With no public
testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
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Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt Resolution No. 09-42,
approving the Annual Engineer's Report and ordering the levy and collection of
assessments within the City of Palm Desert Drainage Basin Maintenance Benefit
Assessment District No. 1 for Fiscal Year 2009-2010, pursuant to the provisions of the
Benefit Assessment Act of 1982. Motion was seconded by Finerty and carried by a 4-0
vote, with Ferguson ABSENT.
C. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE FINAL ENGINEER'S REPORT AND
TO ORDER THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENTS
WITHIN THE CONSOLIDATED PALM DESERT LANDSCAPING AND
LIGHTING DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty noted she owned property in the subject District, and
recused herself and left the Council Chamber.
Mr. Stendell noted this consolidated district would not reflect a 3% cost of
living increase in times where Consumer Price Index (CPI) was a negative;
therefore, this District will reflect no change from last year.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited anyone wishing to
address the City Council on this matterto come forward at this time. With no public
testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Kelly moved to waive further reading and adopt: 1) Resolution No. 09-
43, approving the Final Engineer's Report for the Consolidated Palm Desert Landscaping
and Lighting District for FY 2009-2010; 2) Resolution No. 09-44, ordering the levy and
collection of assessments within the Consolidated Palm Desert Landscaping and Lighting
District for FY 2009-2010. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 4-0 vote,
with Finerty ABSENT.
D. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL BUDGET AND ORDERING
THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS FOR THE
ALESSANDRO ALLEY PROPERTY AND BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited anyone wishing to
address the City Council on this matter to come forward at this time. With no public
testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
Councilman Ferguson moved to waive further reading and adopt: 1)Resolution No.
09-45, approving the Alessandro Alley Business Improvement District Annual Budget for
FY 2009-2010; 2) Resolution No. 09-46, ordering the levy and collection of assessments
within the Alessandro Alley Business Improvement District for FY 2009-2010. Motion was
seconded by Finerty and carried by a 5-0 vote.
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E. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL BUDGET AND ORDERING
THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS FOR THE
PRESIDENTS' PLAZA I PROPERTY AND BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT
DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Mr. Stendell noted that this District reflected a 3% cost of living increase.
Responding to the location of the District, he said it was on the east side of
Portola Avenue all the way to San Luis Rey.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited anyone wishing to
address the City Council on this matter to come forward at this time. With no public
testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty moved to waive further reading and adopt: 1)Resolution No.
09-47, approving the Presidents' Plaza I Business Improvement District Annual Budget for
FY 2009-2010; 2) Resolution No. 09-48, ordering the levy and collection of assessments
within the Presidents' Plaza I Property and Business Improvement District for FY 2009-
2010. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 5-0 vote.
F. REQUEST FOR APPROVAL OF THE ANNUAL BUDGET AND ORDERING
THE LEVY AND COLLECTION OF ASSESSMENTS FOR THE
PRESIDENTS' PLAZA III BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2009-2010.
Councilman Ferguson noted he had a conflict of interest with this item and
recused himself and left he Council Chamber.
Mayor Spiegel declared the public hearing open and invited anyone wishing to
address the City Council on this matter to come forward at this time. With no public
testimony offered, he declared the public hearing closed.
Mayor Pro Tem Finerty moved to waive further reading and adopt: 1)Resolution No.
09-49, approving the Presidents' Plaza III Business Improvement District Annual Budget
for FY 2009-2010; 2) Resolution No. 09-50, ordering the levy and collection of
assessments within the Presidents' Plaza III Business Improvement District for FY 2009-
2010. Motion was seconded by Kelly and carried by a 4-0 vote, with Ferguson ABSENT.
26
�a, a�h,� � �<<. _
�
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
XVIII. REPORTS AND REMARKS
A. CITY MANAGER
1. Consideration of the City Council 2009 Summer Meeting Schedule.
Councilman Kelly moved to, by Minute Motion, direct that the first regular City
Council Meetings in each the months of July and August 2009 (July 9 and August 13) be
canceled and conduct the second meetings in those months (July 23 and August 27).
Motion died for lack of a second.
Councilman Ferguson asked why the schedule was being changed.
Mr. Wohlmuth stated that last year the City held the first meeting in July and
the second meeting in August, and with vacation plans and other issues, a
couple of Councilmembers will potentially be absent if held the same way as
last year.
Councilman Ferguson responded that a few Councilmembers may also be
absent with the proposed recommendation as well.
Mayor Spiegel agreed,which was why it needed to be discussed. One of the
main considerations was that work would be backed up.
Councilman Ferguson stated that with the regular schedule, a meeting could
still be called at the request of the Council,which was exactly what happened
last year when the Governor signed AB 811.
Councilman Kelly agreed with Councilman Ferguson that as long as he could
recall, the City would go dark the second meeting in July and the first
meeting in August,which gave the Council a longer period to go on vacation.
However, the main attempt here was to have a shorter period between
Council meetings and not interfere with someone's vacation, because many
planned their vacation ahead of time. He was in favor of going dark the
second meeting in July and first meeting in August.
Councilman Kelly moved to approve the cancellation of the July 23 and August 12,
2009, City Council meetings. Motion was seconded by Ferguson and carried by a 4-1 vote,
with Spiegel voting NO.
27
�=r:�s^aa r.,�..m�v*, rs^ .._. .
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
B. CITY ATTORNEY
None
C. CITY CLERK
1. Reminder of Upcoming Events.
a) Special City Council/University Planning Committee Meeting,
Friday, June 12, 2009, 3:00 p.m., UCR-Palm Desert Graduate
Center, Heckmann Building, #A-129.
b) City Council Study Session, Thursday, June 25, 2009,
2:00 p.m., Administrative Conference Room - City of
Palm Desert Sustainability Plan.
Mrs. Klassen asked City Councilmembers to take note of the
scheduled Study Sessions and a reminder to adjourn this meeting to
Thursday, June 18, 2009, at 4:00 p.m., for a budget meeting in the
Council Chamber.
D. PUBLIC SAFETY
o Fire Department
None
o Police Department
None
E. MAYOR AND MEMBERS OF THE CITY COUNCIL
o City Council Requests for Action:
None
o City Council Committee Reports:
None
28
�� ��, �:
PRELIMINARY MINUTES
REGULAR PALM DESERT CITY COUNCIL MEETING JUNE 11, 2009
o City Council Comments:
Transatlantic Green Platform (TGP� in La Baule, France -
Councilman Ferguson stated he participated in the Platform, which
was attended by more than 1,000 executive, 55 speakers
representing 42 countries, and 75 journalists. He said Palm Desert
was certainly known, which was the City's goal from a year ago
January, to be recognized as a leader in efficiency and conservation.
At least by his bias, be believed the goal had been accomplished. He
said despite The Desert Sun's best efforts to let everyone know this
trip didn't cost the City a dime, he understood there was a letter to the
Editor stating the City's Summer Concerts were canceled because of
his trip to France. He reiterated that his trip to France did not cost the
City of Palm Desert a dime.
Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce - Mayor Spiegel stated that
every five years the Chamber of Commerce in every city in the United
States had to be reorganized and approved with a two-, three-, four-,
or five-star. This year the Palm Desert Chamber of Commerce was
approved as a "Five-Star," of which there are only two in California
and 50+ in the United States. He said it was a credit to
Barbara deBoom and her staff to what they have been able to
accomplish.
XIX. ADJOURNMENT
With City Council concurrence, Mayor Spiegel adjourned the meeting at 5:20 p.m.
to Thursday, June 18, 2009, at 4:00 p.m. for a budget meeting in the Council
Chamber.
ROBERT A. SPIEGEL, MAYOR
ATTEST:
RACHELLE D. KLASSEN, CITY CLERK
CITY OF PALM DESERT, CALIFORNIA
29