2001 12 18 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
DECEMBER 18, 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
Mayor Pefia and Council Member Perkins abstained from participating in Item No. 2
due to a potential conflict of interest.
1. Conference with City's legal counsel pursuant to Government Code Section
54956.9(a) regarding pending litigation, City of Indio v. City of La Quinta,
-- Riverside County Superior Court, Indio Branch, Case No. 025560.
2. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Mark Weiss, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and conditions
of acquisition and/or disposition of real property located on the west side of
Washington Street north of Avenue 48 (APN: 643-090-024). Property
Owner/Negotiator: Susan Francis/La Quinta Arts Foundation.
3. Conference with City's legal counsel pursuant to Government Code Section
54956.9(b) regarding threatened litigation - one matter.
Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency and to Closed Session 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.
City Council Minutes 2 December 18, 2001
PUBLIC COMMENT
Dale Brooks, 79-795 Tangelo, President of the Citrus Golf Course Homeowners
Association, requested traffic signals be installed at the entrances/exits to The Citrus
development on Jefferson Street and Avenue 52. He noted with the traffic signal
addition at Avenue 50 and the roundabout at Avenue 52, there is no gap in traffic on
Jefferson Street, which makes it difficult for residents to exit the development. He
also referenced a recent car accident at the Jefferson Street entrance/exit where both
cars were demolished.
Council Member Adolph noted the landscape material in the median makes it difficult
to see. Mr. Brooks stated some of the shrubbery has been removed.
Mayor Pe~a stated the matter would be referred to staff.
City Manager Genovese advised staff would get back to Council on the time schedule
for installing a traffic signal at the Jefferson Street entrance/exit.
CONFIRMATION OF ARENDA- Confirmed
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRFSENTATIONS - None
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
1. LETTER FROM LA QUINTA COUNTRY CLUB (REGARDING BEAUTIFICATION
PROJECT ON EISENHOWER DRIVE).
Council referred this matter to staff.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION- It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council
Minutes of November 20, 2001, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Minutes 3 December 18, 2001
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council
Minutes of December 4, 2001, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Henderson noted on Page 4, Paragraph 1, of the December 5, 2001,
Minutes, 26 feet should be changed to 2,600 feet.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the Minutes
of the Special Joint City Council/Planning Commission meeting of December 5, 2001,
as corrected (changing 26 feet to 2,600 feet on Page 4, Paragraph 1). Motion carried
unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
In response to Council Member Sniff's question on Item No. 12, Assistant City
Manager Weiss advised no definitive costs for restoring the bell have been determined.
Management Analyst Powell confirmed the coating on the bell may need to be scraped
off. Council Member Henderson suggested the bell may fit in with the museum
landscaping.
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED DECEMBER 18, 2001.
2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT AS OF OCTOBER 31, 2001.
3. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE & EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED OCTOBER 31,
2001.
4. APPROVAL OF ANNUAL DISTRICT INFORMATION SHEETS FOR THE CITY OF
LA QUINTA ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO. 88-1, 89-2, 90-1, 92-1, AND 97-1
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2001.
5. APPROVAL OF ANNUAL CONTINUING DISCLOSURE FOR THE CITY OF
LA QUINTA 2000-01 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING
JUNE 30, 2001.
6. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH TRI-STATE
LAND SURVEYORS TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION STAKING FOR CIVIC
CENTER CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 97-09.
City Council Minutes 4 December 18, 2001
7. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DAVID
EVANS & ASSOCIATES TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT
SERVICES FOR THE LA QUINTA CIVIC CENTER CAMPUS IMPROVEMENTS,
PROJECT 97-09.
8. APPROVAL OF A MAINTENANCE SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CALIFORNIA
STREET MAINTENANCE TO PROVIDE STREET SWEEPING SERVICES.
9. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH JAS PACIFIC
INC., FOR BUILDING INSPECTION AND PLAN REVIEW SERVICES.
10. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE TO
CONSTRUCT BRIDGE RAIL ENHANCEMENTS FOR THE JEFFERSON STREET
BRIDGE OVER THE ALL AMERICAN CANAL.
11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL DECLINING TO
ESTABLISH A VETERANS PREFERENCE SYSTEM PENDING THE MEET AND
CONFER PROCESS WITH THE LA QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION.
(RESOLUTION NO. 2001-161)
12. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING THE DONATION OF A BELL.
(RESOLUTION NO. 2001-162)
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the
Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 11 and 12 being
approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2001-161 and 2001-162 respectively. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-175.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF THE LA QUINTA HISTORICAL MUSEUM DESIGN.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Paul Johnson, of Ferris Johnson Design, reviewed the revised Design B concept.
He advised artifacts from the Desert Club of La Quinta, such as stained glass
windows, would be incorporated into the museum design.
Council Member Sniff commented on the importance of placing the stained
glass windows where they will refract the light.
City Council Minutes 5 December 18, 2001
Mr. Johnson reviewed the landscape design and noted which trees would be
retained on site.
Council Member Sniff voiced concern about using eucalyptus trees and Council
Member Henderson questioned the use of smoke trees. Mr. Johnson stated
alternative trees would be considered.
Council Member Sniff stated he felt it's imperative for the patio area to be
covered with some type of patterned paving.
Mr. Johnson reported stamped concrete is proposed and would be less
expensive than pavers. He also confirmed decomposed granite in the patio area
has been eliminated from the design.
Council Member Sniff commented on the value of attractive tile in accent areas
and modest indirect lighting.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Johnson advised the Health
Department does not allow the use of pocket doors in kitchen areas. He
confirmed placement of a window in the double-swinging door would address
any safety concerns.
Mayor Pe~a suggested expanding the kitchen wall four feet to the west to
provide more counter space in the kitchen. Council concurred.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Johnson advised due to required
distances between outside exits and the desire not to encroach into the
courtyard area, the second-floor staircase exit will remain at the alley.
However, the steel door will be for emergency exit only and can be opened only
from the inside.
Council Member Adolph suggested the wall between the exhibit area and future
expansion area on the second floor be a partition wall. Mr. Johnson confirmed
it is a non-bearing wall.
Council Member Sniff wished to have the flexibility of covering the entire
balcony area.
Council Member Adolph suggested beefing up the fascia to attach hardware for
a retractable awning.
Council Member Henderson stated she felt tables and umbrellas would be
sufficient. Council Member Sniff disagreed.
City Council Minutes 6 December 18, 2001
Mayor Pe~a suggested the balcony sink area be reconfigured to allow rear
access for beverage service.
Mr. Johnson explained the construction documents will be developed once a
design concept is approved.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve
Historical Museum Design B, a two-story building with a courtyard featuring a
tile deck, decorative fountain, and 48-inch 'courtyard wall with the second story
completed as a shell with possible grant monies and supplemental Capital
Improvement Funds as required and with any further design modifications to
come back to Council for approval.
Council Member Henderson commented on the number of phased projects the
City has going and the need to be cautious in spending. She also asked about
the status of the grant application.
Ms. Horvitz stated it's her understanding that the City can expect to receive a
portion of the requested grant amount.
Mr. Johnson advised several alternate bid items can be provided in the
document designs to provide flexibility.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO, 2001-176.
2. CONSIDERATION OF A PROPOSAL BY THE RIVERSIDE COUNTY OFFICE ON
AGING FOR THE SENIOR NUTRITION PROGRAM.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Eileen Packer, of the Riverside County Office on Aging, gave a brief review of
the County's Senior Nutrition Program and confirmed eligible residents would
qualify for free meals, with or without funding from the City.
Council Member Henderson stated she felt the Community Services Grant
Program might be more appropriate to help offset some of the costs of the
Senior Nutrition Program. She also suggested getting feedback from the
community on the absence of the Meals on Wheels Program.
Council concurred and no action was taken.
City Council Minutes 7 December 18, 2001
3. CONSIDERATION OF THE CITY'S 20TM ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION
ACTIVITIES AND POSSIBLE ADDITIONAL APPROPRIATIONS.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Council Member Sniff suggested deleting "Shining Brighter Than Ever" from the
logo.
Council Member Perkins supported the logo as presented.
Council Member Henderson noted "Shining Brighter Than Ever" is the theme of
the parade and will be used to tie everything together.
Council Member Sniff then suggested changing the font to something more
compatible to the rest of the logo.
In response to Council Member Sniff, City Attorney Jenson advised she was not
aware of any legal problems using the logo.
Council Member Adolph agreed the font should be more consistent.
Council Member Henderson supported the logo as presented and noted the
shading will be removed.
Mayor Pe~a suggested "Shining Brighter Than Ever" be straight instead of
slanted.
After a brief discussion, Council concurred to use the logo as presented.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Horvitz advised the various events
will be promoted to the public through the Community Services Brochure,
Chamber Newsletter, press releases, flyers, letters to businesses, schools, etc.
Mayor Pe~a noted public service announcements can be submitted to local radio
stations for broadcast at no cost.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the Fishing Derby and Ms. Horvitz stated
the County says it is an extremely popular event, in regard to the fireworks,
she advised $15,000 was budgeted but Council later determined only $5,000
· -- would be spent by the City with additional costs offset by co-sponsors.
City Council Minutes 8 December 18, 2001
Mayor Pe~a noted the fireworks event at the La Quinta High School football
stadium would provide an opportunity to recognize the accomplishments of the
school's athletic teams.
Council Member Adolph commented on the lag time between the recent CIF
Championship victory and the 20t~ Anniversary Celebration.
Mayor Pe~a noted there has been some discussion about the football team
riding on the float in the Date Festival Parade.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the
20t~ Anniversary Celebration Committee's recommendations and appropriate an
additional $14,200 from the Special Projects Contingency Account. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2001-177.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, City Manager Genovese advised the tentative
completion schedule for the Civic Center Campus is July or August 2002.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF ESTABLISHING A DEDICATED SITE FOR EMPLOYERS AND
DAY LABORERS.
Building & Safety Director Hartung presented the staff report and reviewed
alternative sites for day laborers and employers to meet. He noted amenities
may need to be provided to encourage use of an alternative site since the City
cannot mandate its use.
Council Member Perkins voiced preference for the palm site near the Senior
Center.
Council Member Sniff stated he wasn't sure it makes sense to dedicate a site
since the City cannot mandate its use. However, he felt the Village Parking Lot
site is the only location that might work.
Council Member Adolph noted the importance of the site being located in a
traffic area.
Mayor Pe~a supported the Village Parking Lot as the most functional area and
suggested placing a few benches and a shade structure near the corner of
Avenida Navarro. He noted having a dedicated site would provide a place for
the deputies to encourage the day laborers to meet.
City Council Minutes 9 December 18, 2001
Council Member Henderson stated she wasn't sure the site would be used but
was willing to go along with the Mayor's suggestion.
Council Member Perkins agreed and stated he felt the City is obligated to make
the effort.
Mayor Pe~a suggested trying it without a shade structure while it's not hot to
see if the site is used.
Mr. Hartung advised other cities have reported great success with their efforts
but the problem hasn't been eliminated.
Council concurred to direct staff to place a few benches facing the street near
the corner of Calle Montezuma and Avenida Navarro.
2. DISCUSSION OF PARKING ANALYSIS FOR THE VILLAGE OF LA QUINTA.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report and noted
the opportunity to provide parking areas will be eliminated as the Village
develops.
Council Member Henderson noted it may be necessary to provide a parking area
outside of the Village. She also noted it would help if businesses required
employees to park in the Village Parking Lot.
Mr. Herman advised there is a shortage of 1 5 parking spaces on Calle Estado
according to City Code.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Mr. Herman stated the vacant lot, currently used for
overflow parking by the Sandbar Restaurant, belongs to the Santa Rosa
development and was not included in the analysis.
Mayor Pe~a suggested utilizing the Senior Center parking lot. Mr. Herman noted
the further away the parking area is the less likely it is to be used.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Herman reviewed which lots on the
east side of Desert Club Drive may be available to use for parking areas.
Council Member Henderson noted the Village Parking Lot might be used more
if "Public Parking" signage is provided. She also asked about the status of the
parking fund.
City Council Minutes 10 December 18, 2001
Mayor Pe~a agreed signage, along with lighting, might help.
City Manager Genovese commented on the dynamics against the City in trying
to address the parking issue in the Village. He suggested staff come back in the
future with both short term and long term strategies to address this issue.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Desert Resorts Regional Airport Authority -- Council Member Henderson reported the
Authority will be holding an open house in April.
Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention & Visitors' Authority -- Council Member
Henderson reported there has been some discussion about building a $2 million facility
on land leased from the City of Rancho Mirage. Option 2 would be to have the City
of Palm Desert build the facility and lease it from them, which would prove more
costly over a period of time. However, there is some question as to whether or not
the Authority is bound by prevailing wage laws and whether or not the Authority
should own a building.
Palm Springs International Airport Commission -- Commissioner Robert Tyler
announced Horizon Airlines will soon begin direct flights from Palm Springs to
Sacramento.
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
1-A. GRANT UPDATE.
City Manager Genovese referenced the staff report and commented on the
benefits of the grant writer position.
1-B. REPORT ON DOWNTOWN BUSINESS DISTRICT.
Council Member Henderson commented on the Landscape and Lighting
Assessment District costs and stated she didn't want to see the issue of a
Downtown Business District forgotten.
City Council Minutes 11 December 1 8, 2001
Mayor Pe~a agreed and stated he believed the more downtown businesses are
involved, the better the Village will be.
City Manager Genovese advised staff can come back with a strategy or method
for employing an outside agency to address this issue.
Mayor Pe~a concurred.
7. FINANCE DIRECTOR REPORT.
Finance Director Falconer reported the Village Parking Fund has been depleted
with the completion of Phase VI street improvements.
8. PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR REPORT.
Interim Public Works Director Stephenson stated staff has received the revised
plans for the street widening at Highway 111 and Washington Street (the
La Quinta Court project) and expects the project to move forward shortly after
the first of the year.
9. POLICE CHIEF REPORT.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Sergeant Ammons reported the office facility on
Avenida Bermudas is working out very well.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Sergeant Ammons stated the name of
the new police chief has not been released.
Council Member Sniff referenced a recent incident on Calle Tampico and
commented on the need for Council Members to be notified of serious crimes
in the City.
City Manager Genovese advised staff is working on a system to alleviate any
challenges in that in the future.
City Council Minutes 1 2 December 1 8, 2001
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE VILLAGE FAIRE.
Council Member Sniff commented on the Iow attendance at the last Village
Faire event and the need for more promotion and creativity. He also voiced
disappointment with the size of the Christmas tree.
Mayor Pe~a noted people are busy during the holidays and stated arrangements
are being made for the Christmas tree next year.
Council Member Henderson suggested getting banners up in other parts of the
City and utilizing the billboard sign used in previous years.
2. DISCUSSION OF A PROGRAM FOR THE PROPER DISPOSAL OF AMERICAN
FLAGS.
Council Member Henderson suggested the City provide a place for residents to
leave their torn American flags for proper disposal. She felt organizations such
as the Veterans of Foreign Wars and Boy Scouts might also wish to participate.
Council concurred.
Council recessed to and until 7:00 p.m.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Brian Doan, 51-020 Eisenhower Drive Apt. #14, requested a variance from City Code
to allow him to park his tow truck at his residence because he has to respond to calls
within 20 minutes.
Mayor Pe~a referred him to the Building & Safety Director.
City Council Minutes 1 3 December 18, 2001
Charlene Whillinger, 43-385 Lacovia, Bermuda Dunes, Assistant Superintendent of
Desert Sands Unified School District, spoke regarding shared use of facilities. She
advised other organizations are allowed to use the high school sport fields as long as
it does not interfere with school activities and liability insurance is provided.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Whillinger stated she would provide a list
of dates and times the fields are available.
'PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Council Members presented art awards to the following students of
Adams Elementary School whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall:
Christopher Altenbern Ariana Garza Doane Reyes
Ignacio Alvarado Emily Garza Stephanie Rios
Christopher Alvarez Anamaria Gonzalez Brittney Robinson
Briana Amaya Chris Gudino Tyler Robinson
Jorge Arambula John Hennessy Justin Rodriguez
Jose Armenta Montana Hernandez Nancy Ruelas
Nacary Avila Steven Hernandez Valeria Santos
Shelbi Bagley Guadalupe Herrera Laura Silvas
Lourdes Barrera Kristopher Hunter Amber Solis
Yvette Beltran Kameron Laitinen Chelsea Steiner
Jacey Bennett Brianna Lopez Sarah Strickland
Brandon Burrell Christian Lopez Breanna Stringer
Monica Bustamonte Miguel Lopez Angelica Tamayo
Sarah Bustamonte Jessica Love Jacob Tarango
Mimi Carrera Adrian Martinez Carina Tinajero-Chavez
Alessandra Casey Emiliano Martinez Martha Valencia
Ricardo Castaneda Rodolfo Martinez Francisco Valenzuela
Claudia Correa Samuel Martinez Ashley Van Vlymen
Tyler Cross Salvador Moreno Araceli Velasquez
Mayra Cuevas Chelly Nava Tyler Velasquez
Michelle Donato Kirsten Nelsen Jackie Vietor
Sarah Enoki Carlos Nunez Victorian Vu
Cindy Espinoza Diana Oquendo Nicholas Warren
Zach Fallis Edwin Ortega Marsala Warshaw
Brittany Fleishman German Pavon Alexandria Young
Nathalie Flores Estevan Quevedo Steven Yslas
Bryan Forero Oscar Quevedo Vicente Zaragoza
Margaret Gallagher Carlos Ramirez Yvette Zavala
Aaron Garcia Adrian Ratliff
City Council Minutes 14 December 18, 2001
PUBLIC HEARINGS
Mayor Pe~a announced Public Hearing No. 3 would be taken up at this time.
3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2001-435
AND APPROVAL OF TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 30331 TO CREATE A SEVEN
SINGLE FAMILY AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS LOT SUBDIVISION ON 5.1
ACRES LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF AVENUE 50, % MILE WEST OF
JEFFERSON STREET. APPLICANT: SANTA PROPERTIES AND DEVELOPMENT
LLC.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:45 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman advised Lots C, D, and F
will be used for retention and landscaping.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mick Santos, of Santa Properties,
stated the homes will be built through a joint venture with a local contractor.
There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 7:48 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-163
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2001-435
PREPARED FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 30331 (SANTA, PROPERTIES).
It was moved by Council Members. Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-163 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-164
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE SUBDIVISION OF 5.1 ACRES INTO SEVEN
SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL AND OTHER MISCELLANEOUS LOTS ON THE
NORTH SIDE OF AVENUE 50 AND WEST OF JEFFERSON STREET (TENTATIVE
TRACT MAP 30331 - SANTA PROPERTIES).
City Council Minutes 1,5 December 18, 2001
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-1 64 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
Council concurred to take up Public Hearing No. 2 at this time.
2. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 2001-418, GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2001-100 TO
CHANGE THE LAND USE DESIGNATION AND ZONING DESIGNATION TO LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL WITHIN THE CITY OF LA QUINTA SPHERE OF
INFLUENCE FOR SUBSEQUENT ANNEXATION OF APPROXIMATELY 200
ACRES, BOUNDED ON THE NORTH BY AVENUE 52, EAST BY MONROE
STREET, SOUTH BY AVENUE 53, AND EAST OF EXISTING CITY LIMITS.
APPLICANT: NRI, LA QUINTA LIMITED PARTNERSHIP.
Mayor Pe~a noted there has been a request by the applicant to continue this
item to February 19, 2001.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to continue the
public hearing for NRI, La Quinta Limited Partnership to February 19, 2001.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO, 2001-178,
1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
2001-438 AND REVIEW OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF AN 18.07-ACRE
COMMUNITY PARK SITE WITH VARIOUS SIZE LIGHTED SOCCER FIELDS,
TWO LIGHTED BASEBALL FIELDS, CONCESSION STAND, RESTROOMS, TOT
LOT, SKATE PARK, PICNIC AREAS WITH BARBEQUES, AND SHADE
STRUCTURES.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:51 p.m.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Steve Lang, 801 N. Harbor Boulevard, Fullerton, Landscape Architect with
Purkiss-Rose, reviewed the revised park plan, which eliminates one small soccer
field and provides an additional 126 standard parking spaces and 6 handicap
parking spaces.
City Council Minutes 16 December 18, 2001
The following people spoke in opposition to the proposed park plan:
Shirley Larson- 79-350 Westward Ho Drive
Allison Bojkovsky - 45-695 Camino Vista
Donna Ryan - 79-075 Ashley Place
Les Larson - 79-350 Westward Ho Drive
Leslie Robles - 45-740 Coldbrook Lane
The following people spoke in support of the proposed park plan:
Holli Ahlstrom - 51-760 Avenida Mendoza
Dave Vicencia- 78-770 Sanita Drive
Robert Nugent- 79-546 Dandelion Drive
Angela Van Driel- 79-315 Desert Stream
Chad Payne - 45-070 Bridgette Way
Michele Boudreau - 43-695 Taurus Court
John Van Driel- 79-315 Desert Stream
Dr. Richard Styler - 49-040 Balada Court
Brandon Gold - 51-431 Avenida Navarro
Chad Zazueta - 51-760 Avenida Mendoza
Richard Boudreau - 43-695 Taurus Court
Robert Boetto - 78-785 Wakefield Circle
Edie Brietto - 49-040 Quimero Court
Henry Schwartz - 44-030 Dalea Circle
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Schwartz stated AYSO sport
participants are age 16 and under and do not play in the senior soccer program
that has access to the high school sport fields as referenced by Ms. Whillinger.
He also commented on the difficulty of re-marking fields for various age groups
to use and moving the soccer goals from one location to another.
There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 8:56 p.m.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Horvitz advised the cost of expanding
the restroom facility to four stalls on each side is approximately $26,000.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Lang advised approval of the
revised plan would increase costs by approximately $50,000 and delay the
time schedule about six weeks.
City Council Minutes 17 December 18, 2001
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Community Development Director Herman advised
the traffic analysis generated for the environmental document is based on the
ITE Manual for Park Facilities.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Ms. Horvitz advised Adams Street will be increased
to two lanes in each direction and Westward Ho Drive improved as a two-lane
facility with a center turn lane.
Council Member Henderson noted a traffic signal is also planned at Adams
Street and Westward Ho Drive.
Mr. Herman advised Westward Ho Drive is currently 60 feet wide.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Colleen Marcum, of Musco Sports Lighting, Inc.,
stated generally facilities with 1,000-I- seating are considered to have stadium
lighting.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Ms. Horvitz advised the heights of the light poles
are 40 feet at the basketball courts, 50 feet at the skate park, 60 feet at the
baseball fields, and 70 and 80 feet at the soccer fields. She confirmed the
condition added by the Planning Commission states the three most northern
fields (70 and 80-foot poles) will not have lights on during the weekend,
excluding Friday evenings.
Council Member Henderson suggested use of the PA system, which is not
mounted on the light poles, be regulated instead of eliminated completely. She
noted the Sports Complex PA system is used twice a year.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Marcum confirmed each section of
the lighting system can be controlled separately and dimmed to 40% capacity
during practice.
Ms. Horvitz confirmed three-foot high bollard light fixtures will be used in the
park for security lighting.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Marcum confirmed Musco
Lighting has submitted lighting recommendations for the ballfield at Francis
Hack Park and is in the process of redirecting some of the football stadium light
fixtures for La Quinta High School.
City Council Minutes 18 December 18, 2001
Council Member Perkins noted the goal of Council is to balance the needs of the
community, including the youth. He felt some of the lighting concerns have
been addressed and stated he supports the revised park plan with additional
parking spaces.
Council Member Henderson noted the City must deal with park issues on an
ongoing basis and has recommended the Community Services Commission
dedicate one meeting each year to address park policies. She felt the traffic
problem is more of a "driver" problem and that the lighting concerns will have
to be dealt with by policy after they are installed. She sympathized with the
residents but felt the lights are needed and stated she supports the design
approved in February. She suggested expanding the restrooms to accommodate
one additional stall in each restroom.
Council Member Adolph commented on the difficulty of making a decision that
can't please everyone. He referenced the number of changes the park plans
have gone through but noted it has been determined that more sport fields are
needed for the youth. He noted the cost of land makes it prohibitive to move
the fields to a commercial site and stated he felt it would help not having soccer
games on Friday nights when high school football is playing. He has talked to
realtors about the effect the park will have on property values and was told a
minimum of 50% of buyers would not want to live next to a park and that
property values would drop $5,000 to $10,000, depending on the cost of the
home. He was also told that it would most likely not make a difference being
a sports park. He objects to heights that destroy views and noted the Council
has reduced heights, and in some cases denied projects, where views would
have been impacted. He was torn between the concerns of the residents and
the need for more sport fields but stated he would support the park as
proposed.
Council Member Sniff stated he believes the Council must deal with current
realities and that the sport fields are needed. He voiced concern about the
affect the park will have on the residents' lifestyles and stated he is not happy
with 80-foot high light poles but feels the lighting is essential. He supported
the park design without the latest revisions and agreed the restrooms should be
expanded. He also supported limiting use of the lights to 9:00 p.m. and
eliminating the loud speakers.
Mayor Pe~a thanked the audience for their input and staff for their work on this
project. He commented on the impacts to the Larson family and stated maybe
the City can look at a use for their property. He agreed the lights should be
turned off by 9:00 p.m. and noted park uses change as the community
changes. He expressed regret for the misinformation distributed on some of the
City Council Minutes 1 9 December 1 8, 2001
issues, such as lighting and speakers, and stated he felt some of the issues will
need to be revisited as they arise. He also noted the park is "open space" and
not just a soccer park. He supported the park plan without the revisions and
stated he hopes the use of parks will continue to be visited. He agreed with
having no loud speakers and with expansion of the restroom facility.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Member Perkins to direct staff to'complete
the revised park design and bring it back to Council and consider a closing time
of 9:00 p.m. Motion failed for lack of a second.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-165
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2001-438
PREPARED FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT 2001-694, THE
LA QUINTA COMMUNITY PARK.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2OO1-1 65 as submitted.
Council Member Perkins stated he would support the motion and hopes the
parking is sufficient.
Motion carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-166
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR AN 18.07-ACRE
COMMUNITY PARK SITE LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF ADAMS
STREET AND WESTWARD HO DRIVE (CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
2001-694, THE LA QUINTA COMMUNITY PARK).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.
2001-1 66 as amended (with amended language related to the expansion of
restroom facilities to include one additional stall per gender). Motion carried
unanimously.
City Council Minutes 20 December 18, 2001
4. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTING PROPOSALS AND AUTHORIZING
THE CITY MANAGER TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO RIVERSIDE COUNTY
ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2002/2003.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 10:1 2 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
Jim Ducatte, of the Boys & Girls Club of Coachella Valley-La Quinta Unit,
requested the City approve their application for funding to help children attend
the facility who could not attend without the scholarship funds.
Mr. Herman advised a late application for $13,000 was received from the
Friends of the Family Program.
There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 10:17 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2001-167
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING PROPOSALS, REPROGRAMMING FUNDS, AND
AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR
2002/2003.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2001-167 as submitted (Boys & Girls Club-La Quinta Unit - $30,000; and, City
of La Quinta Public Facility Improvements - $135,000). Motion carried
unanimously.
Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to the Financing Authority meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page 1.
The City Council meeting reconvened with no decisions being made in Closed Session
which require reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government Code (Brown
Act).
City Council Minutes 21 December 1 8, 2001
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California