2001 10 16 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
OCTOBER 1 6, 2001
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of
2:00 p.m. by Mayor Pe~a.
PRESENT: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pe~a
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
CLOSED SESSION - None
Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency.
Council reconvened and recessed to and until the hour of 3:00 p.m.
3:00 P.M.
Mayor Pe~a led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Marc Dallanegra, 78-496 Calle Seama, questioned eight feet being sufficient height for
the Montero Estates sound wall and urged the City to install a 10-12-foot high wall as
recommended in the sound study.
William Bresnahan, 78-425 Calle Felipe, agreed with increasing the height of the wall
on Eisenhower Drive but suggested a gradual reduction of the wall along Avenue 50
to end at the Montero Estates entrance.
Public Works Director Vogt confirmed the project bid includes an add alternate for an
eight-foot high wall on a two-foot high berm for a total of ten feet.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Council Members Henderson and Perkins requested Consent Item Nos. 11 and 9 be
pulled for discussion.
City Council Minutes 2 October 16, 2001
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS
Mike Fife, Director of Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention and Visitors Authority,
made a presentation on the status of tourism in the Valley since September 1 1th and
the changes in their marketing strategy.
Council Member Sniff encouraged the Authority to maintain a positive, optimistic
attitude in their advertising campaign.
Dick Cromwell, of SunLine Transit Agency, and Bob Kendall, of Sunlaw, gave a brief
presentation on a proposed natural gas power project in the Valley. Mr. Kendall stated
the facility, which will meet and exceed SCAQMD standards and be one third the
height of other power facilities in the proposed Thousand Palms location, will be
screened with landscaping. In response to questions from the Council, he stated they
prefer using reclaimed water but have not identified a source close enough to the
facility. He advised the water used in the process will be cycled through five times
prior to being disposed of through the sewer system. He didn't feel it would be cost
effective for them to reclaim the processed water but will look into the possibility.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Cromwell explained why the JPA needs
eminent domain power and advised the power generated at the site will go into the lid
grid for local power.
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
1. LETTER FROM COACHELLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS
(CVAG) REGARDING THE APPOINTMENT OF A COUNCIL MEMBER TO SERVE
ON AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ANIMAL
CAMPUS FACILITY.
Mayor Pe~a suggested this item be added as Business Session Item No. 9.
Council concurred.
City Council Minutes 3 October 16, 2001
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council
Minutes of September 25, 2001, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to approve the City
Council Minutes of October 2, 2001, as submitted. Motion carried with Mayor Pe~a
ABSTAINING.
CONSENT CALENDAR
In response to a question by Council Member Perkins regarding Item No. 9, Public
Works Director Vogt advised the guidelines for bikeway widths is being looked at
under the General Plan update. He stated staff will look at increasing the bikeway
widths in this contract providing sufficient widths exist for the traffic lanes.
Council Member Henderson spoke regarding Item No. 11 and questioned a reference
on Page 9 regarding the meaning of "La Quinta."
Council Member Sniff suggested the sentence be deleted from the narrative.
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED OCTOBER 16, 2001.
2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED AUGUST 31, 2001.
3. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED AUGUST
31, 2001, AND INVESTMENT SUMMARY REPORT FOR THE QUARTER
ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2001.
4. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FILED BY GARY NEWMAN - DATE OF
LOSS: MARCH 9, 2001.
5. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING A STREET CLOSURE PERMIT
FOR THE VILLAGE FAIRE EVENTS PLANNED IN 2001 AND 2002 ON CALLE
ESTADO BETWEEN DESERT CLUB DRIVE AND AVENIDA BERMUDAS.
(RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 121 )
6. APPROVAL OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP) FOR PROFESSIONAL
ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR THE HIGHWAY 111 STREET IMPROVEMENTS.
7. APPROVAL OF DECLARATION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY.
City Council Minutes 4 October 16, 2001
8, ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING A PROPOSAL FOR A CALIFORNIA
INTEGRATED WASTE MANAGEMENT BOARD WASTE TIRE PLAYGROUND
GRANT FOR ADAMS PARK. (RESOLUTION NO. 2001-122)
9. APPROVAL OF AN AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR THE ClTYWIDE STREET AND
SIDEWALK IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 2000-04. (RESOLUTION NO.
2001-123)
10. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT
30125-1, SEDONA HOMES, INC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2001-124)
11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GRANT PROPOSAL FOR STATE
PROPOSITION 12 MUSEUM FUNDS FOR THE LA QUINTA HISTORICAL
MUSEUM EXPANSION FUND. (RESOLUTION NO. 2001-125)
12. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION APPROVING A GRANT PROPOSAL FOR STATE
ROBERTI-Z-BERGH-HARRIS URBANIZATION AREA GRANT FUNDS FOR A MINI-
PARK TO BE LOCATED AT THE NORTH END OF THE COVE. (RESOLUTION
NO. 2001-126)
13. APPROVAL OF HOLD HARMLESS AGREEMENTS FOR VILLAGE FAIRE EVENTS.
14. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR PARCEL
MAP 30327, KSL DESERT RESORTS. (RESOLUTION NO. 2001-127)
15. APPROVAL OF ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS (RFP)
FOR PROFESSIONAL SERVICES TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT,
MATERIALS TESTING, AND CONSTRUCTION SURVEY FOR CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT PROJECT NO. 97-09, LA QUINTA CIVIC CENTER CAMPUS
IMPROVEMENTS.
16. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR TWO CODE COMPLIANCE
OFFICERS TO ATTEND A TRAINING CLASS GIVEN BY SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS, INC. IN
BUELLTON, CALIFORNIA, OCTOBER 25-27, 2001.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the
Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 5, 8-1 2, and 14 being
approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2001-121 through 2001-127 respectively.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-137.
City Council Minutes 5 October 1 6, 2001
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE ARCHITECTURAL AND
LANDSCAPING REVIEW COMMITTEE.
The following applicants gave brief presentations on their background and
qualifications:
Douglas Miller
Thomas McGraw
Marten Hazekamp
Hal Koontz
David Thorns
(Donna Nelson, Sharon Stein, and Daniel Thornbury were not present and the
application by Mike Zellner was withdrawn.)
Ballot No. 1
Council Member Adolph voted for David Thorns
Council Member Henderson voted for Thomas McGraw
Council Member Perkins voted for Thomas McGraw
Council Member Sniff voted for Hal Koontz
Mayor Pe~a voted for David Thoms
Ballot No. 2
Council Member Adolph voted for David Thorns
Council Member Henderson voted for Thomas McGraw
Council Member Perkins voted for David Thoms
Council Member Sniff voted for David Thoms
Mayor Pe~a voted for David Thoms
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to appoint David
Thorns to an unexpired term on the Architectural and Landscaping Review
Committee. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-138.
City Council Minutes 6 October 1 6, 2001
2. CONSIDERATION OF THE TURNING MOVEMENT ALLOWANCES AT THE
INTERSECTION OF JEFFERSON STREET AND CORSICA GATE.
City Manager Genovese advised this item was before the Council on October
2, 2001, and a motion was made which resulted in a tie vote. Therefore, this
matter is back before the Council for consideration.
Public Works Director Vogt presented the staff report.
Mr. Genovese advised the City has received three separate pieces of
correspondence throughout the day from the City of Indio's attorney.
Jerry Barba, 48-806 Andorra, Indio, urged Council to remove the median to
allow a left-turn movement.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Vogt confirmed the Rincon
Norte development is at full build-out.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Mr. Vogt stated he was not aware of any
development plans for the vacant parcel adjacent to Rincon Norte. As for when
all three lanes are expected to be open on Jefferson Street at Avenues 48 and
49, he stated it depends on when the agreements between CVWD, Indio, and
La Quinta are settled.
Council Member Perkins asked if the Corsica Gate intersection is likely to meet
warrants in the future. Mr. Vogt stated it is possible but would most likely be
due to accident counts as opposed to traffic warrants.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Mr. Vogt stated the City of Indio has indicated they
will not support and participate in the acceleration of a traffic signal at Avenue
48 unless a traffic signal is installed at Corsica Gate, which is 580 feet away
from Avenue 48.
Council Member Sniff asked if a second exit from the development exists at
Avenue 49, to which Mr Vogt responded yes.
Mr. Vogt advised a traffic signal cannot be installed at Corsica Gate until
warrants are met, which is not likely to happen.
Council Member Henderson asked about the possibility of installing a traffic
signal at Avenue 49 without Indio's approval.
City Council Minutes 7 October 16, 2001
Mayor Pe~a stated it is hard to believe lndio would not participate in the signal
if CVAG is willing to include it in the project.
Council Member Sniff noted the latest correspondence from the City of Indio
basically rejects the items listed in the motion made at the last Council meeting.
Council Member Henderson pointed out the letter is from Indio's City Attorney
and the issues included in the last motion have not gone before the Indio City
Council for discussion.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to reinstall a
full-turn movement at Corsica Gate as shown in the original design plans for the
Jefferson Street improvements contingent upon the following seven conditions
being satisfied: 1) the City of La Quinta must receive a letter from RBF
Consulting executed by the design engineer that in his opinion and in the opinion
of his firm, a full, un-signalized, turn movement at Jefferson Street and Corsica
Gate is safe; 2) the City of Indio must agree in a written agreement, approved
by its City Council, that if and when a traffic signal is considered to be
necessary or warranted at the Jefferson Street and Corsica Gate intersection,
the City of Indio will reinstall the median at the Corsica Gate as it now exists
at the City of Indio's sole expense; 3) the written agreement with the City of
Indio shall provide for a method of notification by the City of Indio to the
existing and future property owners and residents within Rincon Norte
disclosing the potential future closure of the left-turn movement out of the
development; 4) the written agreement with the City of Indio shall provide that
the City of Indio shall fully defend, indemnify, and hold the City of La Quinta,
its council, its officers, and employees harmless from any and all claims and
liabilities relating in any way to the intersection of Jefferson Street and Corsica
Gate and the form and scope of the indemnification shall be subject to the
approval of the City of La Quinta City Attorney; 5) the City of La Quinta would
bear the construction cost of restoring the full-turn movement, subject to any
applicable reimbursement of CVAG; 6) the City of Indio would agree to support
the acceleration of the traffic signal at Jefferson Street and Avenue 49; and 7);
the written agreement with the City of Indio would be subject to the approval
of the City Manager and the City Attorney of La Quinta and the City Manager
would be authorized to execute the agreement on behalf of the City.
Council Member Sniff questioned there being any purpose in approving this
since Indio's City Attorney has already rejected it.
Mayor Pe~a supported sending it to see if Indio is willing to bear some of the
burden.
City Council Minutes 8 October 16, 2001
Council Member Perkins asked if the failed motion from the last meeting has to
be dealt with.
City Attorney Jenson advised Resolution No. 98-109 requires the "matter" to
be brought back to Council.
Council Member Sniff stated he felt the "matter" became the motion and that
the motion should come back as is.
Ms. Jenson advised "matter" is not defined in the resolution and stated that it's
her opinion that the "subject" should come back to Council and that Council is
not limited if it wishes to consider a new motion.
Motion carried with Council Members Perkins and Sniff voting NO. MINUTE
ORDER NO. 2001 - 139.
3. CONSIDERATION OF AN APPOINTMENT TO A SUBCOMMITTEE TO MEET
WITH THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS REGARDING THE MULTI-SPECIES
HABITAT CONSERVATION PLAN.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
Council Member Perkins suggested Council Member Sniff serve on the
subcommittee.
Council Member Sniff suggested Mayor Pe~a also serve on the subcommittee
and that the City Attorney be included in an advisory capacity.
Council Member Perkins proposed Council Member Adolph serve as an alternate
on the subcommittee.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Henderson to appoint
Council Member Sniff and Mayor Pe~a to serve on the City of Palm Springs
Multi-Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP) Subcommittee with Council
Member Adolph serving as alternate and the City Attorney and appropriate staff
serving in an advisory capacity. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER
NO. 2001-140.
Mayor Pe~a advised a letter will be sent to the City of Palm Springs regarding
suggested meeting dates.
City Council Minutes 9 October 16, 2001
Council concurred to take up Business Session Item No. 7 at this time.
7. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE 362,
Wells Marvin, 79-258 Cetrina, questioned the purpose of the amendment and
voiced concern that it might be racially focused. He encouraged the City to
provide a place for the workers to congregate and seek work.
Mayor Pe~a stated he understood the purpose of the amendment is to keep
people from blocking entrance ways. He agreed an area is needed for the
workers to congregate and feels the Council is sensitive to the need.
City Attorney Jenson advised she recommended the amendment to avoid
citations being issued for loitering and to bring the City Code into compliance
with the Constitution.
Robert Tyler, 44-215 Villeta Drive, remarked the City of Glendale has
experienced a similar problem and has provided a place for workers to gather
and seek day work.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the need for a location that is safe for
drivers to pull out of traffic to pick up the workers.
ORDINANCE 362
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 11.85 (LOITERING) OF THE LA QUINTA
CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Ordinance
No. 362 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pe~a
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
Council further directed staff to come back with information on potential
locations for job seekers to gather and seek day work.
City Council Minutes 10 October 1 6, 2001
PRESENTATIONS
Jacqueline Pe~a and Araceli Pe~a presented balloons to Mayor Pe~a in honor of his
birthday.
BUSINESS SESSION ........... continued
4. CONSIDERATION OF CITY LIBRARY COMMITTEE FORMATION.
Assistant City Manager Weiss presented the staff report.
After a brief discussion, Council concurred to authorize the City Manager to
designate representatives to serve as liaisons to the Friends of the La Quinta
Library.
Mayor Pe~a remarked about the benefit of having an item on the Friends of the
La Quinta Library agenda for City representative comments.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to designate the
Friends of the La Quinta Library as the committee to work with the County on
library issues and to authorize the City Manager to designate appropriate staff
liaisons to the Friends of the La Quinta Library group. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-141.
5. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATION OF A MURAL
AND CURTAINS FROM THE "FRIENDS OF THE LA QUINTA SENIOR CENTER."
There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City
Clerk's Office.
Bob Alcala, 51-470 Avenida Carranza, President of Friends of the La Quinta
Senior Center, reviewed the proposed mural and advised of their need for
financial assistance.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Alcala confirmed the rendering
in the staff report does not contain all of the details.
Council Member Henderson supported adoption of the resolution and explained
the funding request would have to come back to Council for separate
consideration.
City Council Minutes 11 October 16, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 128
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING A GIFT (MURAL AND CURTAINS AT LA QUINTA
SENIOR CENTER).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2001-128 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
Council recessed to and until 7:00 p.m.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Council Members presented art awards to the following students of
the La Quinta Boys & Girls Club whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall:
Jessica Aguirre Jessica Mclntosh Chloe Redway
Kyle Borowski Marilyn Meraz Lucero Reyes
Ariana Contreras Mandy Mowery Christopher Robinette
Kimberly Cook Kimberly Munoz Dallas Sikorski
Jennifer Cook Monique Nuno Bree Smith
Misty Coyle Carissa Nurse Andrew Soliz
Mayra Alejandra Duenas Uriah Ortiz Stephen Valdez
James Garvey Nathan Painter Brittani Vanneri
Caitlin Jeffredo Yvonne Rosas Pelaya Brandi Wegerle
Milly Jones Rachael Preston
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO AMEND THE SPECIFIC PLAN TO ALLOW
PARKING LOT LIGHTING FIXTURES INSTEAD OF BOLLARD LIGHTING.
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION.
Mayor Pe~a and Council Member Perkins abstained due to a potential conflict
of interest and left the dais.
City Council Minutes 12 October 16, 2001
The Mayor Pro Tem declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:32 p.m.
Planning Manager di Iorio presented the staff report and introduced Jim Benya,
the City's lighting consultant.
Jim Benya, of Benya Lighting Design, the City's lighting consultant, advised
upon reviewing the two lighting plans and the City's lighting requirements,
which requires more light than generally required for this type of situation by
national standards, he encouraged the Arts Foundation to come back with a
lighting plan with shorter poles and designed to address national standards. He
stated a revised lighting plan with 12-foot high light poles was proposed by the
Arts Foundation at a meeting with the homeowners association on October 15th
and was generally agreed upon as meeting the intent of the first meeting and
addressed the national standards more appropriate for this project. He stated
12 feet was determined to be the maximum pole height not easily seen, or seen
at all, from the Laguna de la Paz homes. He further stated the proposed plan
has fewer poles than two of the three original plans he reviewed and, in his
opinion, is the minimum design possible to still meet standards of illumination.
He advised the 12-foot high poles will be slender and painted to blend into the
background.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Benya advised the proposed plan
calls for each light pole to consist of one high-pressure sodium fixture with a
surface lens. He prefers metal halide lights to high-pressure sodium lights and
stated he doesn't feel it would affect the outcome of the lighting plan. He felt
the slight drop in foot candle level would be compensated by the slight increase
in visibility. He stated the main driveway and walkway areas will have
architecturally-decorative poles but the pole designs have not been selected at
this time.
City Attorney Jenson advised the revised plan contains 86 slender, 12-foot high
poles, 43 decorative 12-foot high poles, and 13 bollard lights.
Marie Bochnewich, 74-399 Highway 111, Palm Desert, attorney for the Laguna
de la Paz Homeowners Association, thanked staff for their efforts in trying to
resolve this issue. Although there is some agreement with the proposed lighting
plan, she stated the homeowners association still feels bollard lighting would
work and would like to see trees planted as high as the light poles to screen the
12-foot high poles.
Council Member Henderson questioned it being realistic to expect projects to
have mature landscaping from the onset of the project and noted trees will
continue to grow and rise above the height of the light poles.
City Council Minutes 13 October 1 6, 2001
Ms. Bochnewich advised the homeowners association is requesting 36-inch box
trees be used in the landscape area of the light poles and along the perimeter
in order to attain the needed height within a few years instead of 5-10 years.
Council Member Adolph spoke regarding the City's requirement for minimum
trunk size, height, and span instead of box size.
Ms. Bochnewich stated the homeowners are also opposed to banners being
allowed in the perimeter along Washington Street.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Bochnewich confirmed the
homeowners opposition to banners includes the art festival event banners. She
also asked that the limitation for banners in the last sentence of Condition No.
62-B be for all banners and not just nine.
Ms. Jenson advised the Arts Foundation has agreed to strike the last sentence
and replace it with "all banners permitted under the banner plan shall be
installed not more than 30 days in advance of the event and shall be removed
within seven days after the event."
Ms. Bochnewich stated the homeowners association is requesting deletion of
the reference in Condition No. 62-B that allows banners within the landscape
setback area along Washington Street. She then read the previously-approved
condition which does not allow banners within the landscaped parkway included
in the Washington Street right-of-way.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. di Iorio explained the banner
plan does not allow banners within the landscaped parkway in the Washington
Street right-of-way, which is 12 feet wide, but the Arts Foundation is wanting
to place banners in the remaining 8 feet of the 20-foot setback area. She
confirmed the banners are restricted to 200 feet apart and that seven would be
the maximum number of 20 square foot banners along Washington Street.
Ms. Bochnewich stated the homeowners feel seven banners along Washington
Street would be unattractive and that if multiple events are held at the facility,
it could result in "temporary" banners being up almost year-round.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. di Iorio stated clarification can be
added to the conditions of approval to require banner poles to be removed when
not in use.
City Council Minutes 14 October 16, 2001
Ms. Bochnewich stated the homeowners have also asked that the berm
between the Arts Foundation and Laguna de la Paz be raised one foot and she
understood the Arts Foundation has agreed.
Joseph Nolan, 72-343 Canyon Lane, Palm Desert, of Dream Engineering, noted
the ISNA lighting levels are only "recommended" levels and that the adjacent
church parking lot does not meet these levels yet provides sufficient lighting
with bollard fixtures. He also referenced other cities that either provide for
bollard lighting in parking lots or do not require parking lot lighting. He
suggested the trees be required to reach a minimum height in a relatively short
period of time to screen the light poles. He also suggested bollard lighting be
used in the area behind the parking lot to be less obtrusive than a 12-foot pole
and he questioned the need for lighting in the artist's parking lot.
Frank Delaney, 3801 University Avenue, Riverside, representing the La Quinta
Arts Foundation, noted Condition No. 62 has eliminated banners from the two
front parking lots and urged Council not to disallow banners between the right-
of-way and parking lots.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. di Iorio confirmed the Specific
Plan, as currently approved, allows banners in the two front parking lots.
Mr. Delaney advised the Arts Foundation is in agreement with deleting the last
sentence of Condition No. 62-B and to raising the berm one foot between the
project and Laguna de la Paz as long as it doesn't create any engineering
problems. In regard to tree heights, he stated the 24-inch box trees are
expected to reach the height of a 36-inch box tree within one year and that a
requirement to plant 36-inch box trees at this time would result in a substantial
cost increase without a real long-term benefit to the homeowners association
or the public.
Ron Gregory, 74-020 Alessandro Drive, Palm Desert, landscape architect for the
project, advised the request for 36-inch box trees would affect 286 trees. He
reviewed the average caliber, height, and span of both 24-inch and 36-inch box
trees and commented that smaller trees grow faster and generally are more
viable. He advised there is no long-term benefit in planting larger trees and that
Chilean Mesquite trees will grow to 20 feet high in less than 10 years. The unit
cost for a 24-inch box tree is $200 and for a 36-inch box tree it's $600, which
is a total cost difference of $114,400 for 286 trees. He stated he prefers
15-gallon trees for parking lots due to the growth rate of desert trees but feels
a 24-inch box tree, which is typical for a parking lot, is a good compromise.
City Council Minutes 15 October 16, 2001
Council Member Adolph referenced other projects in the City, such as Wal-mart
and the Auto Mall, where the trees have not grown very fast.
Mr. Gregory advised parking lot trees do better in large planter areas, such as
the linear planters in this project.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Gregory confirmed the berm on
the south side can be raised one foot without creating an erosion problem.
There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor Pro Tem declared the
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 8:17 p.m.
Council Member Henderson stated she understood the homeowners
association's desire to stay with bollard lighting and she expressed appreciation
for having the opinion of a third lighting consultant. She noted lighting in some
of the parking lots do not meet current City standards because they were
installed prior to those standards being adopted. She further noted the
approved Specific Plan states that the project's sign program is subject to future
amendments to the City's sign ordinance. She felt banners are part of the
excitement of the project and didn't have a problem with seven banners in the
landscape area behind the right-of-way. She also felt 24-inch box trees with a
two-inch caliper and 8 feet high would be large enough to mature in reasonable
time and she didn't have a preference between metal halide and high-pressure
sodium lighting. '
Council Member Adolph commented on his opposition to high-rise poles, flags,
and banners at the Auto Mall and stated he didn't want to see the same image
created on Washington Street. He understood the homeowners prefer bollard
lighting but didn't feel they totally object to the 12-foot high poles and he felt
it's time to move forward. He stated he was willing to support 24-inch box
trees with a two-inch caliper and 8 feet high and didn't have a problem with
seven "temporary" banners along Washington Street. He felt it would create
a festive atmosphere on a limited basis.
Mayor Pro Tem Sniff thanked the audience for coming and stated he felt it's
imperative to move on and resolve this matter tonight. He felt the banners
would help the Arts Foundation achieve a significant objective. He also
commented that he supports and likes banners for their air of festivity and is not
concerned about the seven proposed on Washington Street.
Council Member Henderson asked if Council needs to make a decision between
the two types of lighting. Council Member Adolph stated he prefers metal
halide lighting because it gives a truer color to the area being illuminated.
City Council Minutes 16 October 1 6, 2001
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Benya stated he prefers metal halide
lights but that either type will do the job.
Council Member Sniff stated he felt the yellow cast from mercury vapor lights
is softer.
Council Member Henderson called for the question.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 129
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO ALLOW 12-FOOT HIGH
LIGHTING STANDARDS IN PARKING LOTS ON THE WEST SIDE OF
WASHINGTON STREET BETWEEN AVENUE 47 AND AVENUE 48 (SPECIFIC
PLAN 2000-042, AMENDMENT NO. I - LA QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-129 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Perkins and
Mayor Pe~a ABSENT.
2. PUBLIC HEARING ON A RESOLUTION FOR THE MIRAFLORES SENIOR
APARTMENTS PROJECT APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS FOR THE
PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF JEFFERSON STREET
AND AVENUE 48.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:48 p.m.
Frank Spevacek, of RSG, and Stan Woolcott, of Rutan and Tucker, presented
the staff report.
There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING
CLOSED at 8:50 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-130
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A PROJECT AND THE ISSUANCE OF BONDS
RELATING THERETO (DC & TC, LLC - MIRAFLORES SENIOR APARTMENTS).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-130 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Minutes 17 October 1 6, 2001
Council Member Sniff left the meeting at 9:04 p.m. due to ill health.
3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY AN ADDENDUM TO ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 96-328; SPECIFIC PLAN 96-028 AMENDMENT #2, REVIEW OF
REVISIONS TO DESIGN GUIDELINES, MODIFICATIONS TO ALLOW FOR A
23,184 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL BUILDING IN-LIEU OF THREE RETAIL
BUILDINGS TOTALING 11,010 SQUARE FEET; AND, SITE DEVELOPMENT
PERMIT 2001-709, CONSIDERATION OF DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR
CONSTRUCTION OF A 23,184 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL BUILDING ON PARCEL
2 OF PARCEL MAP 28422 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED 600:1: FEET SOUTH OF
THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF HIGHWAY 111 AND DUNE PALMS ROAD.
APPLICANT: BART RINKER.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:53 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
Robert Ricciardi, landscape architect for the project and representing the
applicant, stated they are in accord with the terms and conditions for this
project.
Council Member Adolph asked if landscaping would be used to break up the
blank wall appearance at the back of the building.
Mr. Herman responded landscaping will be placed at the rear of the site because
the back of the building is designed to have large roll-up doors for loading and
unloading.
There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 9:15 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 131
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING AN ADDENDUM TO ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 96-328 FOR SPECIFIC PLAN 96-028 AMENDMENT #2 AND
SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2001-709 TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A
23,184 SQUARE FOOT BUILDING LOCATED ON THE EAST SIDE OF DUNE
PALMS ROAD APPROXIMATELY 600 FEET SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 111 (BART
RINKER).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-131 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff ABSENT.
City Council Minutes 1 $ October 1 6, 2001
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 132
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, GRANTING APPROVAL TO AMEND SPECIFIC PLAN 96-028 FOR
A 23,184 SQUARE FOOT RETAIL/COMMERCIAL BUILDING (BART RINKER).
It was moved by Council Members Adolph/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2001-1 32 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff ABSENT.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001 - 133
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR A 23,184
SQUARE FOOT RETAIL/COMMERCIAL BUILDING (SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
2001-709 - BART RINKER).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Perkins to adopt Resolution No.
2001-133 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff ABSENT.
4. PUBLIC HEARING FOR AN AMENDMENT TO THE DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
AND CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL FOR SPECIFIC PLAN 2000-048 - A MASTER
PLANNED RESIDENTIAL COMMUNITY OF 178 SINGLE FAMILY HOUSES ON
APPROXIMATELY 73 ACRES LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF
AVENUE 50 AND JEFFERSON STREET. APPLICANT: FORREST K. HAAG FOR
RJT HOMES, LLC.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN AT 9:07 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman advised the applicant has requested
a continuance to November 6, 2001.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Perkins to continue the
public hearing for the amendment to Specific Plan 2000-048 filed by Forrest K.
Haag for RJT Homes to November 6, 2001. Motion carried with Council
Member Sniff ABSENT. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-142.
BUSINESS SESSION ............. continued
6. CONSIDERATION OF PLACING A SPECIAL TAX FOR PUBLIC SAFETY
ENHANCEMENTS ON THE MARCH 5, 2002 BALLOT.
Building & Safety Director Hartung introduced Brian Jewett of Muni Financial
Corporation, Stan Woolcott of Rutan and Tucker, and Finance Director John
City Council Minutes 19 October 16, 2001
Falconer and advised they were available for questions. He then presented the
staff report outlining the options available for consideration.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Hartung replied a City-sponsored
initiative is due to the Riverside County Registrars Office by December 4, 2001,
to be placed on the March 2002 ballot.
Council Member Perkins spoke in support of Option //2 in the staff report
because he felt it's a good time to place both the Police and Fire Components
on the ballot.
Council Member Henderson outlined her reasons for favoring Option//3, which
is the Fire Component only. She stated she felt while the events of September
11,2001, have brought forward the need to support public safety, those events
have also created a good deal of unemployment in the Valley.
Council Member Adolph said he favors an initiative for the Fire Component only
because he didn't feel residents in gated communities would be inclined to
support a Police Component since they pay for private security through their
homeowners associations. He also stated he would support separate initiatives
if Council wished to have both components on the ballot.
Mayor Pe~a stated he felt the Fire Component would pass on its own because
it adds paramedic services that are highly desired in the community. He
suggested the tax rate be rounded up to an even amount such as $85 per year.
Council Member Perkins asked why the Police Component is so much higher
than the Fire Component. Brian Jewett responded that the police component
is based on a tax for residential units only, while the fire component is based on
a tax for residential as well as vacant properties.
In response, to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Hartung stated the monthly cost
for the Police Component would be $22.35.
Council Member Perkins stated he felt, if the police component is placed on the
ballot, the monthly amount should be stressed rather than the annual cost.
Council Member Henderson reiterated her belief that funding for police
protection should come from the City's General Fund.
Council Member Perkins asked how many new officers would be needed to
increase police services by one officer on a 24-hour basis,. 365 days per year.
City Council Minutes 20 October 16, 2001
Sergeant Ammons stated he would need to research that information.
Mr. Falconer estimated it would take 5.4 new officers.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Perkins to direct staff
to prepare an ordinance for the purpose of placing a special tax initiative on the
March 5, 2002, ballot for the Fire Component only and to include an inflationary
clause but without a sunset clause. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff
ABSENT. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-143.
8. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 363
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING ZONE CHANGE 2001-02, ASSIGNING LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL AND GOLF COURSE DESIGNATION TO
APPROXIMATELY 382 ACRES, WITH AN EQUESTRIAN OVERLAY TO 40 OF
THOSE ACRES, LOCATED IN THE GENERAL AREA SOUTH OF AVENUE 58,
NORTH OF AVENUE 60, WEST OF MADISON STREET, AND EAST OF LAKE
CAHUILLA (CORAL MOUNTAIN, LLC).
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to adopt
Ordinance No. 363 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Mayor Pe~a
NOES: None
ABSENT: Council Member Sniff
ABSTAIN: None
9. CONSIDERATION OF AN APPOINTMENT OF A COUNCIL MEMBER TO SERVE
ON AN ADVISORY COMMITTEE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN ANIMAL
CAMPUS FACILITY.
(This item was added to the agenda from Written Correspondence.)
Mayor Pe~a reported he spoke with CVAG's Executive Director, Corky Larson,
who felt there was a misunderstanding when this issue was previously
presented to Council. She stressed to him that there would be no financial
commitment to the project by taking this action and that she understood the
Cities of Indio, Coachella, and La Quinta wish to continue using the Indio Animal
Shelter facility. He recommended Council Member Adolph be appointed to the
committee since he serves on CVAG's Human and Community Resources
Committee and is familiar with the project.
City Council Minutes 21 October 16, 2001
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Perkins to appoint
Council Member Adolph to serve on the CVAG Animal Campus Advisory
Committee. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff ABSENT, MINUTE
ORDER NO, 2001 - 144.
STUDY SESSION - None
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
C. V. Mosquito & Vector Control District -- Council Member Perkins reported the
District has completed applying their new logo treatment to all 60 of their vehicles.
Desert Resorts Regional Airport Authority -- Council Member Henderson reported that
the airport will be undergoing some heavy construction to lengthen the runway from
6,700 feet to 8,500 feet.
League of California Cities-Riverside Division -- Council Member Henderson advised
she has been appointed by the League to serve on a special committee to monitor the
effectiveness of the Grass Roots Program.
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
1-B. REPORT REGARDING EAST VALLEY COALITION ITEMS.
City Manager Genovese gave a brief report updating the activities of the East
Valley Coalition. He reported one of the more significant items discussed at the
last meeting was fire services for the eastern portion of the Valley and it was
recommended that the respective City Managers and County staff meet
regarding this issue.
3-B. POSSIBLE DATES FOR THE HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE.
City Clerk Greek presented a brief report and provided four alternative dates for
Council's consideration.
City Council Minutes 22 October 16, 2001
Council directed by consensus to schedule the Holiday Open House on
December 11, 2001, from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.
5-B. POSSIBLE DATE FOR A JOINT PUBLIC HEARING BETWEEN THE CITY
COUNCIL AND THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON THE GENERAL PLAN
UPDATE.
Community Development Director Herman presented a brief report.
Council directed by consensus to schedule the Joint Public Hearing on
Wednesday, November 14, 2001, at 7:00 p.m.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING COUNCIL DECORUM.
Council Member Perkins requested this matter be continued to November 6,
2001, because he preferred all members of the Council be present for the
discussion.
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING CLOSED SESSION MATTERS.
Mayor Pe~a requested the City Attorney explore whether a City Council has the
ability to hold Closed Sessions when the session is dealing with public security
issues.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Perkins/Adolph to
adjourn. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff ABSENT.
Respectfully submitted,
JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California