2002 02 19 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
FEBRUARY 19, 2002
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
Council Member Perkins and Mayor PeRa abstained from participating in Item No. 2
due to a potential conflict of interest.
1. Conference with City's legal counsel regarding pending litigation, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(a) Coachella Valley Water District v. City
of La Quinta, Case No. INC 010827.
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.
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.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
City Manager Genovese advised of a correction to Consent Calendar Item No. 18,
changing $9,000 to $13,600.
City Council Minutes 2 February 19, 2002
Council Member Henderson requested Consent Calendar Item Nos. 12 and 18 be
pulled for discussion and separate action.
Council Member Adolph requested Consent Calendar Item No. 17 be pulled for
discussion and separate action.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to confirm the agenda as
amended. Motion carried unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS
Deborah McGarrey, 41-575 Eclectic Street, Palm Desert, Municipal Marketing Manager
for Waste Management of the Desert, gave a brief update on their plans to construct
a transfer station in Cathedral City.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Frank Orlett, Division Manager for Waste
Management of the Desert, confirmed they plan to build a transfer station in Cathedral
City even if the County decides to locate one elsewhere.
Council Member Sniff stated he felt a second transfer station in the Valley makes good
economic sense.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Orlett confirmed they will provide monthly
updates on their project.
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
1. CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE UNIVERSITY OF RIVERSIDE FORECASTING
CENTER.
Received and filed and staff directed to respond with a letter.
2. CORRESPONDENCE FROM CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY, PALM DESERT
CAMPUS.
Council concurred to sponsor one table at the event to be funded from the City
Council's Travel and Meetings budget.
City Council Minutes 3 February 19, 2002
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council
Minutes of February 5, 2002, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
(Item Nos. 12, 17, and 18 were pulled for separate action.)
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED FEBRUARY 19, 2002.
2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED DECEMBER 31, 2001.
3. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE & EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED DECEMBER
31, 2001.
4. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING FEES FOR CHECKS RETURNED
WITHOUT PAYMENT. (RESOLUTION NO. 2002-21)
5. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR A CODE COMPLIANCE
OFFICER TO ATTEND A TRAINING CLASS GIVEN BY SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
ASSOCIATION OF CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS, INC. IN ANAHEIM,
CALIFORNIA, FEBRUARY 21-23, 2002.
6. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE COMMUNITY SAFETY
MANAGER TO ATTEND A CLASS GIVEN BY VICTOR VALLEY COLLEGE,
BARSTOW, CALIFORNIA, MARCH 3-8, 2002.
7. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE SENIOR ENGINEER TO
ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES, PUBLIC WORKS OFFICERS
INSTITUTE IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, MARCH 6-8, 2002.
8. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS
ASSISTANT ENGINEER II TO ATTEND THE FLOOD-PLAIN MANAGEMENT AND
DUTIES OF THE LOCAL ADMINISTRATOR SEMINAR SPONSORED BY THE
CITY OF SANTA CLARITA AND PRESENTED BY THE CALIFORNIA
DEPARTMENT OF WATER RESOURCES IN SANTA CLARITA, CALIFORNIA,
FEBRUARY 28, 2002.
City Council Minutes 4 February 1 9, 2002
9. APPROVAL OF THE USE OF FUNDS FROM LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT
PROJECT AREA NO. I FOR PHASE I JEFFERSON STREET IMPROVEMENTS
PROJECT WITHIN LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA NO. 2 AND
ADOPT A RESOLUTION MAKING FINDINGS PURSUANT TO HEALTH AND
SAFETY CODE 33445. (RESOLUTION NO. 2002-22)
10. ACCEPTANCE OF THE CALLE TAMPICO/AVENIDA BERMUDAS TRAFFIC
SIGNAL IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 2000-17.
11. APPROVAL OF THE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE
(PS&E) FOR JEFFERSON STREET MEDIAN ISLAND LANDSCAPE
IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 99-05B).
12. ACCEPTANCE OF PROJECT NO. 98-19, AREA D, SAGEBRUSH,
BOTTLEBRUSH, AND SAGUARO WITHIN ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NO.
2000-01. (See separate action below.)
13. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO BERGH AND ASSOCIATES
FOR CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT SERVICES ASSOCIATED WITH
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 2000-01, PROJECTS 98-19, AREAS A, B, D, AND
PROTOTYPICAL STREET.
14. APPROVAL OF AWARD OF CONTRACT TO R. J. BULLARD CONSTRUCTION,
INC. TO CONSTRUCT PROJECT NO. 99-05A, BRIDGE BARRIER AND RAILING
ENHANCEMENTS AT THE JEFFERSON STREET BRIDGE OVER THE ALL
AMERICAN CANAL.
15. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 10, PROJECT NO. 98-19,
AREAS A, B, AND PROTOTYPICAL STREET, ASSESSMENT DISTRICT
2000-01.
16. APPROVAL OF THE CIVIC CENTER CAMPUS ACKNOWLEDGMENT AREA AND
THE PILLARS OF THE COMMUNITY APPLICATION FORMS.
17. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING A SALES PRICE FOR 20TM
ANNIVERSARY GLASSES AND ESTABLISHING A ONE-DAY BUSINESS
LICENSE FEE FOR THE ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW. (See separate action
below.)
City Council Minutes 5 February 1 9, 2002
18. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING STAFF TO ENTER INTO AN
AGREEMENT WITH THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE TREASURER-TAX
COLLECTOR FOR THE PURPOSE OF PURCHASING TAX DEFAULT PROPERTY
WITHIN THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND APPROPRIATION OF UP TO $13,600
FOR THE PURCHASE OF THE PROPERTY. (See separate action below.)
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the
Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with the exception of Item
Nos. 12, 17, and 18 and with Item Nos. 4 and 9 being approved by
RESOLUTION NOS. 2002-21 through 2002-22 respectively. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-12.
Item No. 12:
Mayor Pe~a abstained from participating in Item No. 12 due to a potential
conflict of interest.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Interim Public Works Director
Stephenson explained the liquidated damages will be settled through remaining
projects.
Senior Engineer Freeland advised the final adjusting contract change order is for
accounting purposes only with no additional allocation of funds.
Council Member Adolph commented on the speed limit signs not being
reinstalled and stated he understood they would be installed today.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to: 1) accept
improvements within Project No. 98-19, Area D, Sagebrush, Bottlebrush, and
Saguaro within Assessment District No. 2000-01; 2) approve final adjusting
Contract Change Order No. 6 in the amount of $17,559; 3) authorize the City
Clerk to file a Notice of Completion with the County Recorder; and 4) authorize
the City Manager to reduce securities in lieu of retention to 5% and release
remaining securities 35 days from the recorded Notice of Completion. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-13.
Item No, 17:
In response to Council Member Adolph, Community Services Director Horvitz
advised the $5 per glass fee will include one glass of wine.
City Council Minutes 6 February 19, 2002
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Adolph/Sniff to adopt Resolution
No. 2002-23, establishing a sales price for the 20th Anniversary Celebration
glasses. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-14.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to establish a
$10.00 fee for a one day business license for those participating in the 20th
Anniversary Celebration Arts and Crafts Show. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-15.
Item No. 18:
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution
No. 2002-24 authorizing the purchase of (tax-default) parcels of land from the
Riverside County Tax Collector. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER
NO. 2002-16.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF A SHOP AND DINE BUSINESS RETENTION PROGRAM.
Assistant City Manager Weiss presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Andrea Carter, of Kiner Goodsell, Inc.,
confirmed the program can be extended to run June through September.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Carter stated approximately 70%
of the past participating businesses have been receptive to the proposed
"Passport" Shop and Dine program. Letters will be mailed to businesses to find
out which ones wish to participate in the program.
Council Member Henderson noted there are a lot of new restaurants and
suggested making personal contact with them.
Mayor Pe~a suggested Kiner Goodsell invite all businesses to attend a meeting
regarding participation in the program and follow-up with personal contact for
new businesses.
Council Member Sniff agreed personal contact is important.
Ms. Carter noted over 100 businesses will be invited to participate, not just
restaurants.
City Council Minutes 7 February 19, 2002
Council Member Perkins expressed dissatisfaction with the slogans and
suggested revisions be made.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve a 2002
Shop and Dine Business Retention Program and authorize staff to work with
Kiner Goodsell, Inc., the City's marketing firm, on completing and implementing
the program. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-17.
2. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT OF TWO CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS TO
SERVE ON THE CIVIC CENTER ART PURCHASE COMMITTEE.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Council Member Sniff suggested the program be suspended this year and
reinstated after the Civic Center Campus is completed. He commented on the
lack of places within City Hall to display additional artwork.
Mayor Peda stated he felt the 20th Anniversary Celebration makes this year's
Art Festival a special event. He suggested appointing two committees with a
budget of $5,000 each and providing a 20th Anniversary ribbon for the artists
selected.
Council Member Sniff preferred one committee with a budget of $10,000.
Council Member Perkins concurred.
Council Member Adolph noted places still exist inside City Hall to display
paintings and outside for sculptures.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to appoint Mayor
Peda and Council Member Henderson to serve on the Civic Center Art Purchase
Committee to select Civic Center art during the La Quinta Arts Festival, and
authorize spending up to $10,000, and appropriate funds. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-18.
3. CONSIDERATION OF PARTICIPATION IN AN AMICUS BRIEF TO THE U.S.
COURT OF APPEALS IN 99 CENTS ONLY STORE V. CITY OF LANCASTER
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, U.S. DISTRICT OF CALIFORNIA CASE NO.
00-7572SVW.
City Attorney Jenson presented the staff report.
City Council Minutes 8 February 19, 2002
In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Jenson advised there is no cost or
legal responsibility to the City for participation in the Amicus Brief. She added
the deadline for participation has been extended to February 22, 2002.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve
participation in an Amicus Brief to the U. S. Court of Appeals in 99 Cents Only
Store v. City of Lancaster Redevelopment Agency being prepared for the League
of California Cities and the California Redevelopment Association by the law
firm of McDonough, Holland, and Allen. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE
ORDER NO. 2002-19.
4. CONSIDERATION OF BANNERS FOR THE VILLAGE.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report and referenced
a proposed layout in the staff report for 13 banners on Calle Estado.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Horvitz confirmed Council has
discussed the possibility of using red, white, and blue banners in conjunction
with the Village banners.
Council Member Sniff liked "Welcome to the Village" but felt there might be a
better way with less language. In regard to placement, he suggested locations
1, 4, 5, 8, 9, and 13 on Calle Estado.
Council Member Adolph asked if there was any problem using the script used
by the Chamber of Commerce.
Council Member Henderson noted additional banners may be needed for
Avenida La Fonda, the roundabout, and for replacements.
Council Member Perkins suggested ordering at least 12.
In response to Mayor Peda, Ms. Horvitz confirmed the red, white, and blue
banners include the words "City of La Quinta."
Council Member Sniff suggested buying 20 banners.
Mayor Peda suggested limiting the locations on Calle Estado to 9 and 13. He
further suggested ordering some that read "Welcome to La Quinta" to place in
front of the La Quinta Arts Foundation festival site and rotate to other special
event sites in the City as needed.
City Council Minutes 9 February 19, 2002
After a brief discussion, Council concurred to purchase 24 fringed banners with
the words "Welcome to La Quinta."
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to approve the
purchase of fringed banners reading "Welcome to La Quinta" and authorize the
expenditure of funds to purchase 24 banners to be used throughout the City.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-20.
5. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 364
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ASSIGNING ZONING TO 50 ACRES GENERALLY BOUNDED BY
MILES AVENUE ON THE NORTH, COACHELLA VALLEY STORMWATER
CHANNEL ON THE SOUTH, WASHINGTON STREET ON THE WEST, AND INCO
CENTURY SINGLE FAMILY SUBDIVISION ON THE EAST (ZONE CHANGE
2001-105 - LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No. 364
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
6. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 365
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CHANGING 14 ACRES OF LAND CURRENTLY DESIGNATED LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL AT THE
NORTHEAST CORNER OF AVENUE 52 AND JEFFERSON STREET (ZONE
CHANGE 2001-104 - TOLL BROTHERS, INC.).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No. 365
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
City Council Minutes 10 February 19, 2002
7. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 366
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ASSIGNING PRE-ANNEXATION ZONING TO 816 ACRES
GENERALLY BOUNDED BY AVENUE 58 ON THE NORTH, AVENUE 60 ON THE
SOUTH, MADISON STREET ON THE WEST, AND MONROE STREET ON THE
EAST, AND THE EAST SIDE OF MONROE STREET BETWEEN AVENUE 59 AND
AVENUE 61 (ZONE CHANGE 2001-103 - T. D. DEVELOPMENT).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No. 366
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
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF CONCEPTUAL LIBRARY PROGRAMMING ELEMENTS.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Barbara Bowie, of the Riverside County
Library System, explained the circulation service desk is utilized for library
materials to be checked in and out.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Ms. Bowie stated the catalog access computers are
located in different locations for easy accessibility.
Council Member Adolph stated he felt it's important to get input from
Ms. Bowie and the Friends of the La Quinta Library to ensure proper proportions
for each library area is included in the first phase in order to have an easier
transition into a full library.
Tom Anglewicz, architect with M. W. Steele, confirmed the library will be
planned as a 20,000 square foot facility even though only 10,000 square feet
will be utilized initially.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Mr. Anglewicz stated the City of Rancho Mirage
library is approximately 11,000 square feet and is planned for expansion.
City Council Minutes 11 February 19, 2002
Council Member Sniff suggested the computers be clustered instead of
scattering them throughout the library.
Mr. Anglewicz explained the four catalog access computers will be in different
locations for easy accessibility but the remaining 18 computers for public use
will be clustered in a couple of locations. He added it is common practice to
have power and data connections at tables for the public to use their personal
laptop computers.
Council Member Sniff commented on the importance of having a tutoring
station and a "great books" area.
Ms. Horvitz noted a Study/Tutoring Room is proposed.
Mayor Pe~a voiced concern that tutoring may get into the purview of the
school's responsibility.
Council Member Adolph commented on the need for a casual reading area with
comfortable chairs and natural lighting.
Robert Atkins, of Friends of the La Quinta Library, spoke regarding the need for
a CD collection and a separate children's area where children can make noise
without disturbing other people in the library.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Bowie confirmed libraries
usually have a separate story-telling room for children.
Ms. Horvitz advised a meeting will be held to get input from the public and
Friends of the La Quinta Library. The architect will then prepare conceptual
drawings for Council's review.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
CVAG Public Safety Committee -- Council Member Henderson reported the Gang Task
Force is close to being up and running and that Palm Desert, Rancho Mirage, and
Indian Wells are not participating at this time. She suggested a letter under the
Mayor's signature be sent to those cities to encourage their participation.
CVAG Transportation Committee -- Council Member Sniff reported the funding issue
for the Interstate 1 O/Jefferson Street interchange is still being addressed because the
City of Indio is requesting a new study.
City Council Minutes 12 February 1 9, 2002
City Manager Genovese advised the issue is on the Executive Committee agenda for
February 25, 2002.
Chamber of Commerce Workshop/Information Committee -- Mayor Pe~a noted he has
attended three workshop meetings and that it's time to select a new representative.
Council Member Henderson asked if the business improvement district concept had
been discussed, to which Mayor Pe~a responded no.
Assistant City Manager Weiss reported staff is preparing a letter regarding that issue
to mail to businesses and is coordinating it with the Chamber.
Desert Resorts Regional Airport Authority -- Council Member Henderson reminded
everyone the Authority will be holding its second open house April 8, 2002, from 3:00
p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention & Visitor's Authority -- Council Member
Henderson reported American Airlines is asking for $200,000 annually to continue
their summer flight schedule at the Palm Springs International Airport and this year's
annual payment is due by March 1,2002. The Authority has formed a committee to
look at long-term solutions and has moved to ask member cities to continue funding
based on the previous formula. She advised she did not support the motion because
she has envisioned the cities, hoteliers, and CVEP each paying a third of the payment,
and that it be included in this year's funding. She added American Airlines has since
extended the deadline to March 15, 2002, and she will be asking for this item to be
placed on the next agenda for consideration.
Palm Springs International Airport Commission -- Robert Tyler, the City's
representative on the Commission, commented on the security changes at the airport
and reported the Budget Subcommittee will be discussing the American Airlines issue
at their next meeting.
SunLine Transit Agency -- Mayor Pe~a stated representatives will be meeting with
liD's Board of Directors in El Centro on Wednesday.
All other reports were noted and filed.
City Council Minutes 13 February 19, 2002
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Public Works Department- Interim Public Works Director Stephenson commented on
the new format of the monthly report.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING LA QUI'NTA CiViC MUSIC CONCERTS.
Council Member Adolph commented on previous music concerts organized by
Marty Langer and asked if Council was interested in bringing the concerts back.
Council Member Perkins concurred with the idea and suggested referring the
matter to staff to work with Mr. Langer on a more detailed plan.
Council Member Henderson stated she felt Council would welcome such
activities at the Civic Center Campus once it is completed and noted there was
some problem holding the concerts at the La Quinta Middle School. She also
suggested getting input from the Cultural Arts Commission.
Council Member Sniff agreed the Cultural Arts Commission should be involved
and that the Civic Center Campus is the proper venue for the concerts. He
suggested seeking proposals from several entities to put on musical events to
provide the Council with options.
Mayor Pe~a commented on the great job Mr. Langer did with the concert
association. He agreed the matter should be referred to the Cultural Arts
Commission and staff to come back to Council with a proposal.
Council Member Perkins disagreed with getting other proposals and stated he
preferred seeing what Mr. Langer proposes.
Council Member Adolph voiced concern about procrastinating on the matter.
He didn't feel the City is dedicated to any particular site and noted the La Quinta
Hotel has been used in the past.
Marty Langer commented on his experience and expressed a willingness to work
with the City in providing the musical events. He felt the La Quinta Middle
School is a good place to start with the concerts.
Council concurred to refer the matter to staff.
City Council Minutes 14 February 19, 2002
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING REMOVAL OF POLITICAL SIGNS.
Council Member Adolph thanked the Code Compliance Department for removal
of the political signs inundated at the roundabout area.
.3. DISCUSSION REGARDING USE OF THE SENIOR CENTER FOR YOUTH
PROGRAMS.
Council Member Perkins asked if the Senior Center is used for youth programs,
to which Community Services Director Horvitz advised staff expects to use the
facility for some of the summer programs.
4. DISCUSSION REGARDING CITY-SPONSORED TEEN EVENTS.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Community Services Director
Horvitz reported the recent Friday night' teen event held at Fritz Burns
Community Park was attended by only three middle school youths. She noted,
however, 10 teens participated in the snow board outing and have promised to
invite their friends to future events.
A brief discussion ensued regarding the difficulty in getting teens to attend
youth events planned by the City.
5. DISCUSSION REGARDING PARKING OF COMMERCIAL VEHICLES IN
RESIDENTIAL AREAS.
Mayor Pe~a spoke regarding the City's parking restrictions for commercial
vehicles in the Cove and suggested the matter be placed on a future agenda for
review and to receive input from residents.
Council concurred.
Council recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page I to and until 7:00 p.m.
7:00 P.M.
City Council Minutes 15 February 1 9, 2002
PUBLIC COMMENT
Joyce Money spoke regarding a problem she is having with "mold encrusted tile" in
her new Miraflores home and the developer's refusal to do anything about it. She is
highly allergic to mold and has a letter from the doctor stating she cannot live in the
home.
Mayor Pe~a referred her to the City's Redevelopment Consultant, Frank Spevacek.
PRESENTATIONS - None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 2001-433; GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2001-082 TO
CHANGE CERTAIN STANDARD RELATING TO INTERSECTION SPACING IN
THE GENERAL PLAN; SPECIFIC PLAN 2001-054 ESTABLISHING
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS AND DESIGN GUIDELINES FOR THE
CONSTRUCTION OF A 120,700 SQUARE FOOT NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING
CENTER; CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2001-066 TO ALLOW A GASOLINE
SERVICE STATION AND CAR WASH AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF THE
SITE; AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2001-711 FOR THE SUPERMARKET,
BANK, AND DRUGSTORE BUILDINGS TO BE LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST
CORNER OF AVENUE 52 AND JEFFERSON STREET. APPLICANT: RLF
DEVELOPMENT.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:07 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report and
reviewed the site plan.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman confirmed the Specific Plan
allows a maximum building height of 35 feet with allowance for four feet of
architectural treatment. He added the project complies with the 30-foot
setback requirement.
Council Member Adolph asked about the safety of traffic exiting the most
northerly driveway and having to cross the right-turn-only lane to enter the
northbound flow of traffic into the roundabout.
City Council Minutes 16 February 19, 2002
Mr. Herman advised the Engineering Department has not responded with any
concerns regarding that exit, and added the distance involved is 250 feet.
Council Member Adolph stated he would like the Sheriff's Department to review
it to make sure there are no safety concerns.
Council Member Perkins concurred and asked if the parking stalls would be
double-striped per City standards, to which Mr. Herman responded yes.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Herman confirmed the project
provides 114 parking stalls, which is 10 over the required number for the
project.
In response to Mayor Pe~a, Tim Bartlett, 73-382 Salt Cedar, Palm Desert, the
applicant, advised the left-turn lane into the project from Jefferson Street is 150
feet long and will accommodate seven vehicles.
Council Member Perkins questioned 150 feet being sufficient.
Mr. Herman noted the s-tacking distance will be examined when the design is
reviewed by the Engineering Department.
Mr. Bartlett referred to the stacking distance off of Washington Street into the
Albertson's Market and stated he felt the stacking distance for this project is
adequate. Regarding the driveway exit near the roundabout, he advised it will
be 250 feet from the curb, which is 90 feet further than recommended by staff.
He stated the Sheriff's Department has already reviewed it but he didn't have
a problem asking them to review it again.
Council Member Adolph stated he would feel more comfortable with getting
something from the Sheriff's Department that verifies it is safe.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Bartlett stated they would like
to change the name of the development to "Quail Run."
Council Member Perkins wished to review the striping of the street before doing
anything final.
Mr. Herman reviewed the ingress/egress on Jefferson Street.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Bartlett stated the First Community
Bank is on Pad D and Pads A and F are contemplated for medical use. The
remaining pads have not yet been identified. He noted the Specific Plan
City Council Minutes 17 February 19, 2002
provides flexibility in moving some of the pads, subject to the Community
Development Director's approval.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman advised the individual pad
developments will be reviewed by the Planning Commission.
There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 7:23 p.m.
Council Member Adolph commented on the number of fast-food restaurants in
the City and voiced concern about the potential for one in this development.
He also spoke about the number of gas stations in the City and the problem
some of them have being viable. He didn't feel a gas station in the development
was appropriate or viable and stated he could not support it.
Council Member Sniff commented on the importance of the intersection and the
City's growth to the east. He felt the shopping center should be functional and
stated he didn't have a problem with fast-food restaurants or a gas station on
this site. He didn't believe a gas station would be built unless the developer
feels it will be successful. He agreed adequate stacking distance in the turn
lane is important.
Council Member Perkins spoke to the safety factor of having adequate stacking
distance in the left-turn lane, and stated he didn't have a problem with the gas
station or fast-food restaurants.
Council Member Henderson questioned what is meant by "having a lot of fast-
food restaurants." She felt some may think of them as blighted areas but noted
the City's setback and landscape requirements have kept that from being the
case along Highway 111. She also believed businesses coming to La Quinta
will go the "extra mile" to maintain the integrity of the community they wish to
join. She had some concerns about the number of superma~'kets in the City but
felt that should be left up to the free enterprise system.
Mayor Pe~a stated he wasn't necessarily supportive of having fast-food
restaurants along Highway 111 but feels they serve a purpose. He also feels
this area would support one or two fast-food restaurants because of the number
of people who like to eat out and the number of workers in the area. He noted
fast-food restaurants can be attractive if built in an "upscale" design. He also
felt there's sufficient traffic to support a gas station in the area. He liked the
shopping center design and noted the market will dictate what is built on the
pads.
City Council Minutes 18 February 19, 2002
Council Member Adolph voiced concern about the gas station going out of
business and stated he doesn't like seeing closed businesses in the City. He
referenced the shopping center proposal at Avenue 50 and voiced concern
about the City's future development being sufficient to support all of it. He
noted a vast majority of the residential developments are part-time residents.
Mayor Pe~a stated he felt more of the City's citizens are becoming full-time
residents and will support the businesses.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-25
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2001-437,
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2001-082, SPECIFIC PLAN 2001-054,
CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT, 2001-066, AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
2001-711 (RLF DEVELOPMENT).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2002-25 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Adolph voting NO.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-26
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A CHANGE TO CERTAIN STANDARDS IN THE
CIRCULATION ELEMENT OF THE GENERAL PLAN RELATING TO MINIMUM
INTERSECTION SPACING ON MAJOR ARTERIALS (GENERAL PLAN
AMENDMENT 2001-082- CITY OF LA QUINTA).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2002-26 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-27
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS AND DESIGN
GUIDELINES FOR A NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL SHOPPING CENTER AT
THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF AVENUE 52 AND JEFFERSON STREET
(SPECIFIC PLAN 2001-054 - RLF DEVELOPMENT.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2002-27 as amended (changing the development name to "Quail Run").
City Council Minutes 19 February 19, 2002
Mr. Herman advised the turning movements will be subject to the City
Engineer's review and to City standards.
Mayor Pe~a noted the City Engineer can also request the Traffic Safety
Committee to review the turning movements.
Motion carried with Council Member Adolph voting NO.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-28
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT 2001-066 TO ALLOW
A GASOLINE SERVICE STATION AND CAR WASH WITHIN A NEIGHBORHOOD
SHOPPING CENTER (RLF DEVELOPMENT).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Perkins to adopt Resolution No.
2002-28 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Adolph voting NO.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-29
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING DEVELOPMENT PLANS FOR A SUPERMARKET,
BANK, AND DRUG STORE ON A PORTION OF A 15-ACRE NEIGHBORHOOD
SHOPPING CENTER AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF AVENUE 52 AND
JEFFERSON STREET (SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 2001-711 - RLF
DEVELOPMENT).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2002-29 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 2001-418, GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2001-077, ZONE
CHANGE 2001-100 TO CHANGE THE LAND USE CLASSIFICATION AND
ZONING DESIGNATION TO LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL WITHIN THE CITY OF
LA QUINTA SPHERE OF INFLUENCE FOR SUBSEQUENT ANNEXATION FOR
APPROXIMATELY 200 ACRES, BOUNDED ON THE NORTH BY AVENUE 52,
EAST OF MONROE STREET, SOUTH OF AVENUE 53, AND EAST OF THE
EXISTING CITY LIMITS. APPLICANT: NRI, LA QUINTA LIMITED
...... PARTNERSHIP.
Mayor Peda noted the applicant has requested a continuance.
City Council Minutes 20 February 1 9, 2002
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to continue the
public hearing for applications filed by NRI, La Quinta Limited Partnership to May
21, 2002. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-21.
3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY AN ADDENDUM TO A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL
ASSESSMENT 98-375 AND APPROVE SPECIFIC PLAN 98-034 AMENDMENT
NO. 1, AN AMENDMENT OF THE TEXT OF DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES AND
GUIDELINES OF THE SPECIFIC PLAN, AND AMENDMENT TO THE SITE PLAN
DESIGN ADJACENT TO AVENUE 50 FOR A 100,500 SQUARE FOOT
SHOPPING CENTER LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF JEFFERSON
STREET AND AVENUE 50. APPLICANT: LUNDIN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:36 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman confirmed an eight-foot
high block wall is required as a noise mitigation requirement. The seasonal sales
area is for activities such as a Christmas tree lot and will require a Special
Events Permit. He added a gas station is proposed at the corner of the
intersection.
Bill Warner, 73-185 Highway 111, Palm Desert, of Warner Engineering and
representing the applicant, noted a large retention basin, in addition to the block
wall, serves as a buffer to the adjacent development. He also noted a
correction on Page 3 of the staff report regarding the 32-foot setback, changing
Pad "A" to Pad "B." He stated the applicant feels the retention basin justifies
the proposed reduced setback.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Greg Beaver, 16400 Pacific Coast
Highway, Suite 207, Huntington Beach, of Lundin Development Company,
advised a gas station is allowed under the Specific Plan but has to go before the
Planning Commission for approval.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Beaver confirmed interest in locating
on the site has been received from a few banks, one of them being a second
site in the City for First Trust Bank.
In response to Council Member Adolph, he stated a Sav-on Pharmacy is
proposed inside Albertson's. He added they have changed the name of the
shopping center to "Fairway Plaza."
City Council Minutes 21 February 19, 2002
There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED .at 7:56 p.m.
Council Member Adolph noted the current proposal is similar to the project
across the street and he doesn't have a problem with it.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-30
A RESOLUTION OF THE CiTY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING AN ADDENDUM TO A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR SPECIFIC PLAN 98-034,
AMENDMENT NO. I (LUNDIN DEVELOPMENT COMPANY).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2002-30 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-31
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN AMENDMENT TO SPECIFIC PLAN DESIGN AND
DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPALS AND GUIDELINES FOR A 100,500 SQUARE FOOT
SHOPPING CENTER (SPECIFIC PLAN 98-034, AMENDMENT NO. I - LUNDIN
DEVELOPMENT COMPANY).
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2002-31 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
4. PUBLIC HEARING ON DEVELOPMENT IMPACT FEES.
Mayor Pe~a noted a request has been received to continue the public hearing
to March 5, 2002.
MOTION -It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to continue the
public hearing on Development Impact Fees to March 5, 2002. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2002-22.
City Council Minutes 22 February 19, 2002
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
5. JOINT PUBLIC HEARING BY AND BETWEEN THE LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
AND THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO CONSIDER AN
AMENDMENT TO THE AFFORDABLE HOUSING AGREEMENT BY AND
BETWEEN THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND DC & TC, LLC,
AND TO CONSIDER THE ISSUANCE OF UP TO $8,000,000 OF MULTI-FAMILY
HOUSING REVENUE BONDS THAT FACILITATE DEVELOPMENT OF A 118-
UNIT SENIOR APARTMENT COMPLEX AS PART OF THE MIRAFLORES
NEIGHBORHOOD LOCATED NORTHWEST OF THE JEFFERSON STREET AND
AVENUE 48 INTERSECTION.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:17 p.m.
Community Development Director Herman presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Frank Spevacek, of Rosenow, Spevacek
Group, referenced the number of units sold to date without any major problems.
He understood the issue related to the resident who did not qualify for the
moderate-income housing assistance program has been resolved by the
developer agreeing to sell the home at the contract price but without any
affordable housing assistance. As for Ms. Money's problem, he will meet
tomorrow with Michael Shovlin to discuss that matter.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Spevacek explained the
$80,508 figure on Page 3 is the Agency assistance amount, not the full value.
There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 8:24 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2002-32
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO THE AFFORDABLE
HOUSING AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE AGENCY AND MIRAFLORES, L.P.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.
2002-32 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
Council recessed to the Financing Authority meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page 1.
City Council Minutes 23 February 19, 2002
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).
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business the meeting was adjourned.
Respectfully submitted,
JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California