PCMIN 10 09 1991 MINUTES
JOINT MEETING OF THE CITY COUNCIL
AND
PLANNING COMMISSION
October 9, 1991
Mayor Pena called the joint meeting of the City Council and Planning Commission
together at7:03 P.M.
ROLL CALL: Councilman Bohnenberger, Sniff, Rushworth, Franklin, and
Mayor Pena
Planning Commissioners Mosher, Ladner, Ellson, Marts
Chairwoman Barrows
Principal Planner Fred Baker introduced the consultants for the General Plan
update, Mr. John McNamara, Mr. Tim Campbell and Mr. Mark Peterson of BRW, Inc.
to the Council, Commission and audience.
Mr. McNamara discussed the handout that had been distributed on Visions and Goals
and gave a brief overview of the General Plan process. That process had started
with the:
-- Master Environmental Assessment- Inventory analysis of all existing
conditions
Summarize Issues, Opportunities, and Constraints
Visions, Goals, and Objectives
He stated tonight's meeting was a continuation of the Visions, Goals, and Objectives
portion of the General Plan process. He went on to state the definition of Visions,
Goals, and Objectives and that tonight's meeting would concentrate on Visions and
Goals only.
The topics discussed were:
Land Use
Economic Development
Circulation
Infrastructure and Public Services
Open Space
Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources
Natural Resource Conservation
Environmental Hazards
The discussion was opened for public participation.
Audrey Ostrowski spoke regarding homes, industrial, and businesses, cottage
industries, and home occupations should be addressed in the
General Plan Update.
Seyed Safavian spoke concerning the compatibility of vegetation areas and water
conservation goals; addressing historical preservation issues,
plus an urban design/aesthetic element should be included in the
General Plan. The element should also address conformity with
the City's natural resources, climate, etc. Goal Cir.3 should
address the integration of the alternative modes of transportation
and Goal Cir.4 should refer to specific corridors which require
interjurisdictional planning.
Helen Nelson spoke regarding more parks for children and the provision of
equestrian trails and bikeways.
Joseph Wassell addressed the Council/Commission regarding the noticing of
these public meetings. He stressed better communication.
Gary Arise felt that all utilities should be located underground. In addition,
he asked if there were lists which include threatened and rare
wildlife and plant species, similar to lists of endangered species.
Another concern was the solid median on Washington Street being
replaced by continuous left turn lanes allowing for easier access
to adjacent properties.
Janet Phelps spoke concerning a clean-up day in La Quinta to fight blight in
the Cove area. Enforcement of codes aimed at preventing blight
should be a priority of the City.
Peter Murray asked if Geal OS. 3 was possible to preserve Date Palm groves and
citrus orchards and shouldn't the property owners be
responsible for the maintenance of the property. Also, Goal
NRC. 7 being feasible to preserve prime agricultural soils.
Lucia Moran asked why the Washington Street Corridor Specific Plan and the
Village Specific Plan were not incorporated in the General Plan
Update.
Councilman
Bohnenberger stated the light (illumination pollution) should be addressed.
Mayor Pena stated his concern that the equestrian trails in Goal Cir. 3 be
included in the Recreation Element.
There being no further comment, Mayor Perm thanked everyone for their
participation. Mr. McNamara stated the next meeting would be December 11, 1991.
This joint meeting of the City Council/Planning Commission was adjourned at 8:00
P.M.
PCMIN109JT 2