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HomeMy WebLinkAboutParks & Rec Cmsn - 03/03/09 � CITY OF PALM DESERT ��•�� PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION � � MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 I. CALL TO ORDER Chairman Barnard convened the meeting at 8:31 a.m. II. ROLL CALL �'��''��'�)tJi�C(LACTIt�N ������z��✓r�� _nr.�v�r�� Present: �:�rc�:tvFu E �� � c�Tt��:zz Chairman Michael Barnard y���;T'�yG DATE -��7-� `� Vice Chair Roger Dash �,y�`:��E�,�E'r�i�sr�,� i ' ,,��� Commissioner Phill Babcock �(��g. ,�� Commissioner Jerry Dawson A[3SENT: �1°���- Commissioner Randy Guyer AI3STAIN: N��' Commissioner Deborah Hall (8:35 a�rp;.��FIF.0 13Y: R-��-1�� Commissioner Kim Housken Origin�tl on File witii City Clerk's Oflice Commissioner Julie Munson Commissioner Terry Schukart Staff Present: John Wohlmuth, City Manager Homer Croy, ACM for Development Services Janis Steele, Parks and Recreation Services Manager Ryan Stendell, Senior Management Analyst Tony Bagato, Principal Planner Kevin Swartz, Assistant Planner Monica Loredo, Administrative Secretary Guests: Robert Spiegel, Mayor Van Tanner, Planning Commission Stan Ford, Desert Recreation District Craig De Witt, Desert Recreation District Laura McGalliard, Desert Recreation District Rob Ballew, Family YMCA of the Desert Gina Tenorio, The Desert Sun Jim Foote, Santa Rosa & San Jacinto Mountains National Monument 1 PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 III. APPROVAL OF MINUTES A. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM JANUARY 20, 2009 Minutes of the meeting from January 20, 2009, were approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by Guyer/Schukart, and carried by a 6-0-2 vote with Commissioners Dawson and Housken ABSTAINING, and Commissioner Hall ABSENT. B. MINUTES OF THE MEETING FROM FEBRUARY 3, 2009 Minutes of the meeting from February 3, 2009, were approved as submitted. Motion moved/seconded by Dawson/Dash, and carried by a 6-0-2 vote with Commissioners Guyer and Munson ABSTAINING, and Commissioner Hall ABSENT. IV. ORAL COMMUNICATIONS Mr. Rob Ballew, Family YMCA of the Desert, announced that the YMCA is in amidst of its annual sustaining campaign. He mentioned that Mayor Bob Spiegel is the honorary chair. The YMCA is out to raise $140,000 to help programs at the YMCA. The campaign will run through March 26. Mr. Ballew handed out a flyer with information on Healthy Kids Day and the Easter Egg Hunt that are both being held on the same day, Saturday, April 11, at the Civic Center Park. It is being sponsored by Rabobank and the City of Palm Desert. The YMCA expects in excess of 1,500 people; everything is free. He mentioned that a while back Ms. Steele and Mr. Niemczak commented to them that they were replacing some of the picnic tables in the park with new ones. Mr. Ballew asked them if there were some tables that still had some use in them that they were going to toss, and asked if the YMCA could have the tables to refurbish. Mr. Niemczak told him that it was okay. The YMCA refurbished the tables, and now being utilized in some of the child care centers around town. He thanked Staff. V. PRESENTATIONS A. THE MANTAS GROUP Ms. Steele commented that Mr. Tony Bagato, Principal Planner; and Mr. Oliver Binns, from The Mantas Group were present to introduce The Mantas Group concept. 2 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinufes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Mr. Bagato stated that the Planning Department has been meeting with The Mantas Group. The group is looking at 80 to 120 acres in the north area of the City between Portola and Cook Street and north of Gerald Ford. They are looking at building an entertainment and virtual reality recreation district composed of 27 different villages. He explained that Staff suggested the group make a presentation to the Commission for feedback since they are incorporating a sports facility. He noted that the project is 100% funded by the group, but may require a joint use agreement. Mr. Mervyn Kirshner introduced himself as an associate of The Mantas Group and Mr. Binns. He stated that they are introducing a sports entertainment, education, and virtual reality project. He commented that they have been meeting with different outside groups as well. As previously stated by Mr. Bagato, he indicated that the property will be located on approximately 120 acres between Cook and Portola on Gerald Ford. The property is owned by Marix and Wilson and Johnson. He stated that they have had meetings with them. He noted that they have met with the City's Planning Department and several of the City Council members, including the Mayor. It was then suggested that they make a presentation to the Commission. He introduced Mr. Binns who will present the information. Mr. Binns began the film highlighting the project. After the film, Mr. Binns indicated that they are privately funded to build the development, and not requesting any financial commitment from the City. There are some things that the City might want to do. They would work with the Planning Department to create a development agreement for the park and aquatic facility. Commissioner Schukart noted that casinos are nearby with entertainment, he asked if a feasibility study has been done in this region (between Palm Springs and Coachella). Mr. Binns replied that the development and the casinos would complement each other. Their development would bring in a different crowd of people, and when in town the people would visit the casinos. Same for the casinos, the casinos will draw people to the development. Commissioner Housken stated that she finds the project very intriguing, and asked how long the concept has been in the works. Mr. Binns responded over ten years. In regards to the area, she asked what the zoning for the area is. Mr. Bagato answered that the zoning is industrial. Commissioner Housken inquired if there is another example of a project like the one being presented since it is very unique. Mr. Binns responded 3 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 that the whole project is unique. They have done some studies to take different things, and bring them together into one community. The reason they use the term flexible villages is that each of the villages has to stand alone and be economically feasible. He stated that they have built a team around a creative group of people with architects and engineers to bring it all together. He noted that the funding is not conventional. It is a unique type of funding, and had to create jobs, must be "green," must improve the community, and have a strong education component. Mr. Binns stated that something was created around a funding source to be able to pull it all together. He mentioned that all members of the team have all worked in this area before so they know it will be successful by what they are trying to achieve. Commissioner Housken clarified that there is no other project like this that they can visit. Mr. Binns replied no. Commissioner Housken inquired if their aquatic center had a competition pool. Mr. Binns answered yes. She also inquired about what fields there are going to be; baseball, softball, soccer, football, and lacrosse. Mr. Binns clarified that the fields are going to work in a way that can be multi-use. The whole objective is to have eight fields. Commissioner Housken commented that the funding is private, and that no support will be needed from the City. She noticed that the flyer has a footnote that the arena and theater "need support from the community." Mr. Binns explained that certain things need to be subsidized, but their group has been able to work with their funding sources to cover the funding for the arena and theater. He mentioned that due to their funding sources, they have an ability to do some creative work. They understand the needs for communities, and they also understand the turn of the economy. Their approach is to bring something into the community. Commissioner Housken inquired if there is a minor league team that would support the project. Mr. Binns replied yes. He stated that they are having discussions with different groups, which he is not allowed to say. He noted that all of the groups are interested. Commissioner Housken questioned if the McCallum Theater would be a competitor. Mr. Binns responded that the project is flexible. So if there is a theater already in the community, they would not bring it in. He stated that their intention is not compete with other venues, but to complement them. Commissioner Hall asked if this was a for-profit group. Mr. Binns answered that it is a for-profit group. He noted that they do have a non- profit component tied to it. 4 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Hall inquired if there would be a fee for the use of the aquatic center. Mr. Binns replied yes. He communicated that they would also offer programs to assist with some of the costs. Commissioner Dawson commented that it was mentioned that there will be an area where visiting teams could be housed and a hotel. He asked if there is any other temporary or permanent housing available in the area. Mr. Binns asked if he meant in the project's community. Commissioner Dawson replied yes. Mr. Binns responded no. He explained that there would be several different hotels depending when they get land control and do their analysis. There is no permanent housing. Commissioner Dawson asked where the name Mantas came from. Mr. Binns responded that as they were developing the program, he wanted to make sure they had a name that was not already being used by a major sports team. For their group, the name had to have something strong in a natural environment and outside a natural environment. A manta ray fish is strong in and out of the water. Vice Chair Dash stated that it is all an interesting concept. He inquired if there would be a membership fee for people that want to participate in recreational activities. Mr. Binns communicated that their funding source is very unique. In regards to the recreational activities (exercise rooms), that is something they are flexible with, and they would take a look at it. Commissioner Guyer stated that it was mentioned that each village would be economically sound. Mr. Binns responded that is correct. Commissioner Guyer questioned that an aquatic center would have to be economically sound by itself or they would not do it. Mr. Binns repeated that is correct. He asked if the group has been able to show that it is economically sound by itself. Mr. Binns replied that they have. Commissioner Guyer asked if this is being looked at as an economic project or a parks and recreation project. Mr. Binns responded that it is being looked at both ways. There are the dollars and cents, but there is also the value to the community. He noted that it all had to pencil out, otherwise it would not have been funded. Mayor Spiegel inquired who from the educational community they have met with. Mr. Binns answered that they met with Dean Stewart. He noted that they are scheduling a meeting with Cal State San Bernardino University. Mayor Spiegel mentioned that Commissioner Schukart is in charge of the Athletic Program at College of the Desert. He suggested the group meet 5 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 with College of the Desert. He asked Mr. Binns where the group goes from here. He responded that some of the people from his team are meeting here in the desert tomorrow so that they can see the land and see what they are doing. He stated that they feel committed to the valley and feel real good about the property based on the ingress and egress that they have. The group has certain opportunities that they want to work through, and also get a sense from the City to see if this is something that the City would want in Palm Desert. If it is a yes, they will then move forward. He mentioned that there are some opportunities that they need to work through. Mr. Tanner, Planning Commissioner, asked Mr. Binns, why Palm Desert and how many rooms are they planning for the hotel. He noted that currently there are four hotels in that quadrant. Mr. Binns responded that their studies have shown that there are a lot of things going on every month. He noted when he is talking about Palm Desert he is referring to the whole Coachella Valley. He mentioned with the virtual reality, they are creating a destination place that people would want to come to. The range they are looking at is within a four hour drive time. He stated that in their programs they mention hotels, but as they do their studies and get land control and if they find out that there are enough hotels; he does need to have a hotel. He stated that what they will have is housing. Mr. Binns reaffirmed that they are very flexible. If there is something that does not work, they will pull away from it. Vice Chair Dash commented that the group selected Palm Desert, he inquired if there would be a price structure for the Palm Desert residents. Mr. Binns replied yes. Commissioner Guyer asked if the group already has the 120 acres. Mr. Binns responded no. They are talking to two groups, and their plan is to go through the area and complete a study to find out what would make sense. Before they move forward, they want to make sure that the community, such as the City of Palm Desert was open to the project. He noted that there are a lot of advantages to having the property on Cook Street. Commissioner Guyer inquired if the property that the City owns is directly against the other property. Mr. Bagato replied yes. Mr. Binns stated that they have met with the Planning Department, and told them that they will come in and build a park with the City's specifications. Their group will maintain the facility, but would like to have shared use during the weekends. 6 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Chairman Barnard asked what the Council's reaction has been and have they discussed partnerships. He stated to Mr. Binns that the Commission has been having these types of discussions for many years, and the Commission understands the expenses and cost recovery, which is the reason for the financial questions. Chairman Barnard asked if they are looking at partnerships with the City to build the project. Mr. Binns said no. He explained that they do not have a conventional loan. The funding source requires that it is green and it has to provide education as a priority, and there is no debt service. They have completed some very thorough investigation on the funding sources. They are not only looking at dollars and cents, they are also looking at what it could do for the community. Commissioner Housken commented that the area is a great location. An aquatic center in the north side of town is two-fold. There are no homes there, and since she lives in south Palm Desert she does not see herself driving there to visit the aquatic center but probably will for the other events. In addition, she questions having an outdoor pool and an amphitheater at that location because of the blowing sand. She mentioned there are many days that you can't be outside with the sand blowing. Commissioner Housken stated that the other aspects of the project are very interesting. Mr. Binns communicated that is why he refers to a flexible arrangement. As they do their studies, they will come up with a plan that makes sense and what is going to work for the community. Commissioner Babcock asked what advantages they have that the City does not currently have. Mr. Binns replied that he has the money and they can maintain it. Mr. Binns added that as they move down the road, they are willing to make their sources confidentially known to the City Attorney so that they can verify the information. As they came up with the program and concept, it was important to them from the start to make sure that they can build the project so that they are not made a fool of. They have the vision; they have the money, and they are now working on talking to the community. He stated that he has his money secured. Commissioner Dawson asked Mr. Binns when he expects to start moving dirt. He responded that he will be meeting with his group to go over some deadlines. From what they have assessed, they are looking at turning dirt in 14 months. He reaffirmed that before they turn dirt, they already have the funds. 7 G:IDevSeiviceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Guyer asked when they started looking at the Palm Desert area for this project. Mr. Binns answered that he first started looking at the Coachella Valley about a year and a half ago, but originally was looking at Lake Elsinore. He indicated that one of the investors stressed to him to look at the Coachella Valley. He came out and has been meeting with different people to get some sense from the community. They have privately been doing their own investigation of the area to see if would make sense. Commissioner Guyer clarified if they contacted the City a couple of months ago. Mr. Binns replied yes. Commissioner Babcock stated his concern with the other groups in the area, such as the YMCA, Desert Recreation District, and others. Mr. Binns responded that their project would complement the other groups. He explained that there is a group of athletes between the ages of 13 and 18 that travel around the country before they go to college. He has talked to several of the groups and has agreements that they can give him 10 weeks a year from all of them. That is why he has mentioned to the Planning Department that they would need the facility on weekends. He stated that they are coming in to blend in with the community, and to find out what is going to work and be beneficial to everyone. Mr. Ballew commented that the City did a needs assessment survey a few years ago, and asked Mr. Binns if he has reviewed the results. He responded that he reviewed it lightly, but that his pro forma group is currently reviewing it. Commissioner Guyer asked Mr. Binns if he was a cricket player. He replied yes. Ms. Steele stated that if anyone had any questions to please let her know and she would pass it on to the Planning Department and to Mr. Binns. Mr. Bagato added that if the Planning Department receives an application and plans, Staff will bring it back to the Commission for more discussions. The Commission thanked The Mantas Group for their presentation. The Mantas Group thanked the Commission for their time. VI. NEW BUSINESS A. BASEBALL BUDDY PROGRAM 8 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Discussion and recommendation concerning a request to support and move the program into the City of Palm Desert. Ms. Steele stated that she was approached by Ms. Lisa Manning with the Baseball Buddies program, and noted that she provided information in the agenda packet. She explained that the group participated with a special needs baseball group in Palm Springs last year. They are interested in moving their program and affiliate with Palm Desert Youth Sport Association (PDYSA) to be more centrally located. Ms. Steele stated that the group has contacted Mr. Richard Weintraub, President of PDYSA. The group is not looking for any money. They will pay their admission into the league, which is $95 per child for uniforms and other items. She stated that she wanted to bring it to the Commission's attention that the league is looking at doing this. She feels it is a great opportunity for the City and it is the right thing to do in her opinion. She noted that Mr. Weintraub feels the same. She stated that a representative from Baseball Buddies is present to answer any questions. Ms. Manning could not be here because she had to work. Commissioner Housken commented that she thinks it is a great idea, and would fully support it. She noted that she recently read a news article that Coachella is working with Desert ARC to have some type of league, and was not sure the group was aware of that, and wondered if the two groups would work together. The representative responded that he was not aware of the group in Coachella. He explained that Baseball Buddies is a national program, and that his daughter and son-in-law started the program because they have a handicapped child. This year they have 22 kids signed up. The program is amazing if anyone ever wants to go out and see it. Mayor Spiegel asked where they would play. Ms. Steele responded that they would probably play at Freedom Park. Commissioner Guyer inquired how often the group plays. The representative responded that they play once a week for one hour. Commissioner Guyer asked if there will be a scheduling problem. Ms. Steele responded that there will not be. She stated that they have talked to Mr. Weintraub, and there is plenty of space during the time they are looking for at Freedom Park. Ms. Steele commented that when they have the schedule confirmed, she will let the Commission know. 9 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Guyer moved to support the program in Palm Desert. Commissioner Dawson seconded the motion, and carried by a 9-0 vote. B. BICYCLE FRIENDLY COMMUNITY Discussion and recommendation to support moving forward with the Bicycle Friendly Community dedication and plan. Ms. Steele communicated that the Commission had asked about the Bicycle Friendly Community program at a previous meeting, and there was discussion on what the City can do to make it happen. She stated that Staff started meeting to discuss the program. Staff felt that they could move forward without spending any money due to the slowing down of the economy. Mr. Kevin Swartz, Assistant Planner, will take the lead in the process if everyone supports the program. Ms. Steele indicated that Mr. Swartz has prepared a staff report to the City Council pending the Commission's recommendation. She noted that the City Council needs to support the program in order to move forward with the application. In order to file an application, the City has to designate someone from the City as the Bicycle Friendly Community representative as well as a committee. Staff is recommending that the Parks and Recreation Services Manager is the representative and that the Parks and Recreation Commission serve as the Bicycle Advisory Committee. She explained that Mr. Swartz will make the recommendation to the City Council, if the Commission is in favor, moving forward with the first application phase, which is completing a simple application. If the City is selected by The League of American Bicyclists, Mr. Swartz will proceed in completing the second application. She noted that assistance from all Development Services Departments, Police Department, and the local bicycle club will be needed in order to provide programs and services. Ms. Steele made clear that there will be no costs until the City is selected. Down the road, the City may want to spend some capital funds on signage to indicate that Palm Desert is a Bicycle Friendly Community along with some marketing. Commissioner Schukart commented that it seems in the past five years or so there has been ongoing discussion concerning being more bicycle friendly in Palm Desert. His impression has been that it is very difficult because of traffic patterns and flow of traffic in the City. He stated that at one point the City was going to lose some bike lanes along with the City growing for automobiles and not bicycles, he asked how that can be turned around to qualify for a Bicycle Friendly Community. Ms. Steele responded that the City added approximately 35 miles of bike lanes. She 10 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 noted that the mid-valley bike path (Washington Street to Aqua Caliente) will be going in. Mayor Spiegel interjected that there was a problem with the funding for the mid-valley bike path. He stated that the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG) was trying to take some of the money away. He indicated that the City Manager and he are working hard to retain the money. He agreed with Commissioner Schukart's comments that bike lanes are disappearing. Mayor Spiegel commented that the City Council recently had a long discussion regarding the widening of Cook Street, and they agreed to not widen the road so bike lanes will remain. Ms. Steele mentioned that the Desert Recreation District was also doing a study for the white water canal path, but has not seen the results. She noted that there are other things involved besides having bike lanes such as education programs for bicyclists, classes, providing safety equipment, etc. She stated that the City should go ahead and apply to become a Bicycle Friendly Community, and find out where the City stands. Mr. Stendell commented that the existing network of bike paths in Palm Desert is extensive, but you are not always looking at a striped path. Other times you have to understand that you are looking at a shared sidewalk. He noted that when you look at the application that Mr. Swartz has been working on, there are things that the City is already doing. It might not be to the extent that other cities might have. He mentioned that the Bicycle Friendly Community logo is eye-catching. He has seen it on websites for different cities. Mayor Spiegel stated that selfishly it will bring tourists to Palm Desert. Commissioner Guyer commented that he believes that there are different levels, and it is not an all or nothing. Mr. Swartz interjected that there is a bronze, silver, gold, and platinum level. Commissioner Babcock mentioned his concern that bicyclists cannot trigger the signal lights and can become dangerous. There are some areas where you cannot make a left-hand turn. Mr. Gary Lueders, Bicycle Club, stated that he has been working with the City's Public Works Department to address the issue of turn lanes, and they are aware of it and are in the process of correcting the problem. He stated that the Bicycle Club is based in Palm Desert. All of their rides start at the Civic Center Park. He mentioned that he receives e-mails from all 11 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 over the country saying that people are coming to visit the desert and ask where it is a good place to ride. He also mentioned that he sees the Bicycle Friendly Community as a marketing tool. He stated that he brought the idea to the Commission, and could have taken it to another Coachella Valley city, but wanted to keep it in Palm Desert. He commented that the Bicycle Club is ready to help, and sees this as a good opportunity. Commissioner Housken commented that she remembers when Mr. Lueders first brought it to the Commission. When Ms. Steele brought more information, everyone thought it was a great idea, but at the time it was a staffing issue. Now that there is City Staff available, she would move to pursue the Bicycle Friendly Community. Commissioner Housken moved to recommend to the City Council to pursue a "Bicycle Friendly Community" dedication. Commissioner Dawson seconded the motion, and carried by a 9-0 vote. VII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS A. PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION BYLAWS Discussion and recommendation to make changes to the Commission bylaws. Ms. Steele reported that Commissioner Guyer and Commissioner Hall served as a committee to look at the bylaws and recommend some changes. Commissioner Guyer stated that they added input to what they already had based on some bylaws that they saw from other cities. The recommended changes were indicated in the staff report. Commissioner Dawson asked if the bylaws need to be changed to reflect the order of the agenda. Commissioner Guyer did not make the recommendation to change the agenda since the Commission covers everything in a different order. Ms. Steele commented that she would check with the City Clerk to see if they need to change the order of the agenda. Commissioner Munson inquired if Article IV could read, ". . . if that individual misses two consecutive meetings . . ." instead of "two scheduled meetings." Ms. Steele responded that this is a City standard, and would have to check with the City Clerk. 12 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09_min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Mayor Spiegel interjected that there have been exceptions, and they will continue to make exceptions when warranted. Vice Chair Dash asked if it is possible to include the word "unexcused absences" that might help get them out of a bind. A couple of commissioners believed that you can. Commissioner Housken stated that she understood the City's standard as two unexcused absences. So you can have finro absences, but it is when you have the third absence you are vacated. Ms. Steele stated that she understands it the same way as Commissioner Housken. Commissioner Guyer commented that they did add, ". . . upon review by the City Council." He noted that the City Council has to vacate the Commissioner and not the Commission. Mayor Spiegel announced that Commissioners Hall and Schukart's term have been renewed. Vice Chair Dash asked if it is necessary to identify who is going to excuse the Commissioner that is absent. Commissioner Guyer believes the City Council has to. Mayor Spiegel stated that if it an exception, then it goes to the City Council. Commissioner Guyer commented that was one reason why they added "upon review by the City Council," because it was not in the bylaws before, and he did not know who would do that. Commissioner Housken mentioned that she noticed in the last section of the bylaws (Article XI; Section 4) it mentions when inspection forms are due. Since they are now only meeting once a month, she asked if the schedule should be changed. Commissioner Dawson suggested changing it to monthly. Commissioner Dawson commented on the same Section 4, he recommended changing ". . . will inspect an assigned park and report the condition . . ." to ". . . will inspect an assigned park and report the condition and observations regarding improvements . . ." He noted that they are now not only looking for conditions, but also looking for improvements in the 13 G:IDevServiceslMonira LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.dxx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 parks. In addition to Section 4, ". . . reported problems are corrected." should be changed to ". . . properly addressed." Chairman Barnard asked the Commission if they would like Staff to make the changes and bring back to the Commission. They replied yes. Commissioner Schukart moved for Staff to make changes to the bylaws and bring back for approval by the Parks and Recreation Commission. Commissioner Dawson seconded the motion, and carried by a 9-0 vote. VIII. REPORTS AND UPDATES A. FISCAL YEAR 2008-09 MID-YEAR BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS Ms. Steele noted that Staff was asked to take a look at their budgets, and make adjustments where they could for fiscal year 2008/2009. She stated that she is providing information on what was approved. She quickly went through the list of budget adjustments (staff report). Ms. Steele mentioned that Staff has meetings scheduled in April to discuss fiscal year 2009/2010. Commissioner Dawson commented that money was taken from the Special Park Fund 233, and wanted to know what that means. Ms. Steele explained that was from the amphitheater project in which she was going to recommend pulling out some funds for next year. She noted that there was $2.2 million in that account, and Staff was looking at spending somewhere from $300,000 to $700,000 based on the items that needed to be done. Ms. Steele stated that during the City Council meeting, it was offered up by the Finance Director and is now gone. It was helpful in balancing the budget. Mayor Spiegel voiced that it will now need to be requested for next year to redo the amphitheater. Ms. Steele interjected that she has already put it in with the capital projects, which she has to do ahead of time. She noted that during the bad economy, Staff was asked not to add any new capital projects. Commissioner Dawson clarified if they will still be able to make improvements to the amphitheater. Ms. Steele responded that they still have carry over money, but not $2.2 million. 14 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Mayor Spiegel commented that one of the things thrown out was the possibility of eliminating the guard at the skate park. It was the Council's decision to keep the guard. Ms. Steele stated that the budget adjustments should not change services. Commissioner Babcock inquired if police is still keeping an eye on parks. Ms. Steele responded that Lt. Shouse has been very responsive in asking his patrols to go through parks especially with problem areas. She noted that Mr. Niemczak has seen them go through on their bicycles. Mr. Stendell added that he has seen the two motorcycle cops eating their lunch by the bridge (by San Pasqual) everyday. Commissioner Babcock asked if they are doing night time patrols. Ms. Steele mentioned that she has been going to the Citizens on Patrol (COPS) meetings. She mentioned that she has started sending COPS the schedule of events going on in the park received from the Recreation District. She noted that they are going to provide six COPS to assist with Sports Opening Day. Ms. Steele commented that she has seen them more in the parks. Staff is doing everything they can to keep the parks patrolled. Commissioner Babcock stated that he does not see police on the trails. Ms. Steele replied that the City has a contract with Bureau of Land Management to patrol the trails, and noted that the gentleman is present. Commissioner Babcock voiced that he is going to have to talk to that gentleman. Ms. Steele stated that they are patrolling City property and citing people. Mayor Spiegel suggested inviting the Chief of Police to a meeting if the Commission wants to address a problem. Commissioner Guyer clarified if the money from the amphitheater went to the City's General Fund. Mayor Spiegel replied yes. Commissioner Guyer inquired where the money initially came from. Mayor Spiegel answered that the money was profit from the Park View Building. He explained that per an agreement, profit would go to the park. 15 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Guyer asked if the agreement is no longer in place. Mayor Spiegel answered that was correct, and that it is now going into the General Fund. B. JOE MANN DOG PARK FENCE REPLACEMENT Ms. Steele reported that Staff had a lot of issues with the contractor who replaced the dog park fence, and probably will not work with them in the future. She mentioned that the contractor took down the fence and did not work on it for a month. The fence is up and completed and looks really nice. C. JOE MANN FENCE PLANTER Ms. Steele stated that there was a construction area at Joe Mann Park that looked bad, and it was recommended that some planters be installed to reduce the unsightly area. The planters were completed with photos included in the agenda. D. PARKING AT THE MIKE SCHULER TRAIL Ms. Steele commented that the parking at the Mike Schuler was brought up at a previous meeting. She reported that were no parking signs and red curbs along Painters Path Road near the trail. Staff checked with the Public Works Traffic Engineer, and they were told that the signs were installed when there was a track for remote controlled cars. Since the track is no longer there, the Traffic Engineer is going to recommend to the Director of Public Works the removal of the signs. Ms. Steele stated that Staff would let the Commission know when it happens. Commissioner Guyer asked if the model car store is gone. Mr. Stendell responded that they were. Commissioner Guyer inquired if the area could potentially be used for something else. Mr. Stendell replied yes. E. TRAIL MAINTENANCE Ms. Steele communicated that most of the washouts have been repaired and completed. She noted that Staff requested a proposal for additional repairs to the trail system. Mr. Schuler is also going to be installing some directional signs. Ms. Steele mentioned that the turnouts that the City of Rancho Mirage is going to pay for would be done last. 16 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Schukart asked if bikes are allowed on the trail behind Target. Staff replied yes. Commissioner Schukart commented that he has been on the trail a couple of times when there were some bicycle and pedestrian issues. He mentioned that a pedestrian threw a rock at a bicyclist because he was going too fast that knocked a kid off the trail. He asked if anyone else has been on the trail, and have seen any issues with bicyclists and pedestrians. There were a couple of Commissioners that responded that they have. Mr. Stendell commented that when he is riding his bike on the trail, he stays clear of pedestrians. He feels that it is common courtesy, and stated that not everyone is going to be courteous. He noted that the trail usage has gone through the roof. Commissioner Schukart noted that he once saw a group of about twenty third graders with a couple of chaperones hiking along, and everyone else on the trail had to stop and have a picnic while they went by. Mayor Spiegel asked if bikes should not be allowed on the trail. Commissioner Schukart responded that he did not know and could be discussed. He commented that the trail is very windy and narrow. Commissioner Dawson asked if the turnouts would help. Commissioner Schukart answered that he would hope so; it might help. Chairman Barnard agreed that the cyclists are not the most courteous. Ms. Steele stated that she will discuss it with the Bureau of Land Management and Police Department to see if there are some things they could recommend. Commissioner Guyer asked Mr. Stendell what other trails bikes could go on. He replied every single trail. Mayor Spiegel suggested that Staff look into it, and return to the Commission with a recommendation. F. STATUS UPDATES Ms. Steele mentioned that at the last meeting, there was request to provide an update on current projects. She communicated that Staff provides a status report to the City Manager every week. Ms. Steele 17 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 stated that she would also provide the report to the Commission. She briefly went through projects on the report. Commissioner Dawson commented that the status report is a good idea. He noted that weekly might be a bit too much, and asked if she could provide it monthly in the agenda packet. Ms. Steele replied that she would. Mr. Croy interjected that he asked for the status reports so that the new City Manager could be updated on projects and get up to speed on what is going on weekly. Ms. Steele introduced Mr. Wohlmuth to the Commission. G. YOUTH SPORTS OPENING DAY Ms. Steele invited the Commission to the Youth Sports Opening Day. She listed events for the day. Mayor Spiegel asked what time he needed to be there. Ms. Steele responded that the ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m., and offered to pick him at the Civic Center parking lot at 10:30 a.m. She offered to pick up Commissioners as well. Mayor Spiegel mentioned that Mr. Steve Garvey and the United States Marine Band will be at the opening. Commissioner Schukart noted that it gets crowded for Opening Day, and advised the Commission to not park in the gravel area at COD. He stated that there is a baseball double header the same day and foul balls reach the gravel lot. H. TRENDSCAN INFORMATION Ms. Steele commented that the agenda packet included the California Parks and Recreation Society's (CPRS) "Trendscan Information." She noted that Mr. Niemczak is not at the meeting today because he is attending the CPRS conference, and that she will also be leaving later in the day to the conference. She mentioned that the conference will be held in Palm Springs next year, and hopes that the Commission will be able to attend. Commissioner Housken thanked Ms. Steele for the information. 18 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 I. DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT Ms. Steele reported that she provided a copy of the District's General Manager's update in the agenda packet. Commissioner Housken stated that she appreciated receiving program numbers. She noted that the counts for the skate park, weight room, gymnasium, and racquetball are high and figured it was because they are counted hourly. Ms. Steele commented that she spoke with Mr. DeWitt, and explained that they are trying to find a better way to count how many people are in the building rather than counting some people double and maybe missing some people. Mr. DeWitt communicated that they try to keep track of the spectators because they have recognized that in some classes spectators are getting as much out of it as the person attending the class. Commissioner Housken stated that she found the program participation totals interesting for each month. She noted that November had 96, December had 54, and January had 110. Commissioner Housken voiced that she was shocked, and could see that numbers going down during the holidays. Mr. DeWitt stated that one reason numbers are low in December is due to being closed for a week and a half for some maintenance and to participate in the Christmas parade. Commissioner Housken commented that she did not realize that the District offers afterschool, and asked how late it runs. Mr. DeWitt responded that it runs until 5:30 or 6:00 p.m. He mentioned that the program has not been very successful, but they feel it is important to offer. They have made some changes to the program to create some different opportunities and to see if it grows. Chairman Barnard stated that he would like to address the contract next month. He commented that the District counsel is saying that the contract might not be legal and finds it very disturbing. Mayor Spiegel believed that a new contract is being written. Ms. Steele stated that the contract is done and has been in the Executive Director's hands since the beginning of January. She mentioned that she held off bringing it to this meeting because she thought Chairman Barnard 19 �:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 was not going to be at today's meeting, but will bring it to the meeting in April. Commissioner Housken agreed with Chairman Barnard and found it interesting reading about it in the District's Board update report. She also gave kudos to Ms. Galvez regarding $2,916,775 that the District does not own and belongs to the City of Palm Desert. The District overstated their assets by a total of $5 million when the City of Palm Desert is counting pennies. Commissioner Housken hopes that other organizations here are counting pennies as well. J. FAMILY YMCA OF THE DESERT Ms. Steele stated that the YMCA provides her with information on programs offered by the YMCA. She commented that she would provide the Commission with the information when she receives it. Ms. Steele announced that she was appointed to an Ex Officio position on the YMCA Board. She noted that a job description was included in the agenda packet. The group will meet once a month with representatives from all valley cities, school districts, and Supervisor Wilson's office. Mr. Ballew, Family YMCA of the Desert, briefly gave an overview of the meetings, which their overall goal is to improve communication between the YMCA and cities they serve. K. PARK INSPECTIONS Ms. Steele asked the Commission if it would be okay with everyone to turn in their inspection sheets by the 15th of every month. The Commission agreed that they would. L. NEWS ARTICLES There were no comments regarding the news articles. IX. COMMISSIONER COMMENTS Commissioner Dawson commented that he was at Legends Fields, and it looked like someone ripped of the pictures from two of the pillars. Ms. Steele responded that the two pillars are new. Staff will be adding Mr. Steve Garvey to one of the pillars, which has not been put up yet. She mentioned that he will be presented with the picture during the Youth Sports Opening Day. The other pillar will be available for next year. 20 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalPa�ks&ReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min_docx PARKS AND RECREATION COMMISSION MINUTES MARCH 3, 2009 Commissioner Munson inquired if she missed the tour of the Parks Inspectors new offices. Ms. Steele responded that Staff forgot to schedule it after the last meeting. She will schedule a tour after the next meeting. Commissioner Housken commented that she was at Ironwood Park last Friday, and it was the busiest she has ever seen it. The barbeques were going and everyone was using the new equipment. Commissioner Housken shared that this Friday there is going to be a reception celebrating the lives of three 90 plus year old painters that are still painting in their 90's. It is being held at the Historical Society from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. She mentioned that the show extends through March 14, 2009. Ms. Steele announced that there is a big college baseball tournament at the stadium in Palm Springs starting March 4 through March 8. X. ADJOURNMENT Upon motion by Commissioner Guyer, seconded by Commissioner Dawson, the meeting was adjourned at 10:30 a.m. ��CYY�1•.�(`�. I ��� Monica Loredo, Recording Secretary 21 G:IDevServiceslMonica LoredolWord DatalParksBReclMinutes12009 Minutes13-3-09.min.docx