2017 03 07 CC4 awe'
- — GEM of the DESERT —
City Council agendas and staff reports
are available on the City's
web page: www.la-quinta.org
CITY COUNCIL
AGENDA
CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBERS
78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
REGULAR MEETING ON TUESDAY, MARCH 7, 2017
3:00 P.M. CLOSED SESSION 4:00 P.M. OPEN SESSION
CALL TO ORDER
ROLL CALL: Councilmembers: Fitzpatrick, Pena, Radi, Sanchez, Mayor Evans
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the City Council on any matter not listed on
the agenda. Please complete a "Request to Speak" form and limit your comments to three
minutes. The City Council values your comments; however in accordance with State law, no
action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda unless it is an emergency item
authorized by GC 54954.2(b).
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
CLOSED SESSION
1. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54956.8 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT: SILVERROCK RESORT (APNs
770-200-026; 776-150-021; 776-150-023; 770-060-056; 770-060-057; 770-
060-058; 770-060-059; 770-060-061; 770-060-062; 777-490-004; 777-490-006;
777-490-007; 777-490-012; 777-490-014
CITY NEGOTIATOR: FRANK J. SPEVACEK, CITY MANAGER
NEGOTIATING PARTIES: ROBERT S. GREEN, SILVERROCK DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY
UNDER NEGOTIATION: PRICE AND TERMS OF PAYMENT FOR THE SALE OF
REAL PROPERTY
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 1 MARCH 7, 2017
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 2 MARCH 7, 2017
2. Continued from February 21, 2017 meeting >>> PUBLIC EMPLOYEE
PERFORMANCE EVALUATION (QUARTERLY REVIEW) PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54957, COUNCIL APPOINTED POSITION – CITY MANAGER
RECESS TO CLOSED SESSION
RECONVENE AT 4:00 P.M.
REPORT ON ACTIONS(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the City Council on any matter not listed on
the agenda. Please complete a "Request to Speak" form and limit your comments to three
minutes. The City Council values your comments; however in accordance with State law, no
action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda unless it is an emergency item
authorized by GC 54954.2(b).
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - NONE
CONSENT CALENDAR
NOTE: Consent Calendar items are routine in nature and can be approved by one motion.
PAGE
1. APPROVE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 21, 2017
7
2. APPROVE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 23, 2017 SPECIAL JOINT MEETING
OF CITY COUNCIL, CITY BOARDS, AND CITY COMMISSIONS
17
3. APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED FEBRUARY 17 AND 24, 2017
21
4. RECEIVE AND FILE REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE REPORT DATED
DECEMBER 31, 2016
39
5. ADOPT A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING SPEED LIMITS FOR CERTAIN
STREETS [RESOLUTION NO. 2017-005]
43
6. ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO REAFFIRM ADOPTION OF ANNUAL
ASSESSMENT FOR COUNTY SERVICE AREA 152; AUTHORIZE
RIVERSIDE COUNTY TO CONTINUE TO LEVY ASSESSMENTS; AND
INDEMNIFY AND HOLD THE COUNTY HARMLESS FOR LEVYING
ASSESSMENTS ON CITY PARCELS [RESOLUTION NO. 2017-006]
49
7. ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE FINAL PARCEL MAP NO. 36964 55
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 3 MARCH 7, 2017
LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF CALLE QUITO AND
AVENIDA LA JARITA; AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT PURSUANT TO
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT EXEMPTIONS CLASSES
3, 15, AND 32 [RESOLUTION NO. 2017-007]
8. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH HERMANN DESIGN GROUP FOR ON-CALL
PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURAL SUPPORT SERVICES
83
9. APPROVE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE, AND
ADVERTISE THE TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL COURT CONVERSION
IMPROVEMENTS AT FRITZ BURNS PARK
91
BUSINESS SESSION
1. INTRODUCE FOR FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 5.90 AND ADDING CHAPTER 5.91 TO THE LA QUINTA
MUNICIPAL CODE, RELATING TO THE REGULATION OF THE DELIVERY
OF MEDICAL CANNABIS IN THE CITY AND CONFORMING AMENDMENT
PURSUANT TO STATE ADULT USE OF MARIJUANA ACT [ORDINANCE NO.
555]
97
2. APPROVE LEGISLATIVE POLICY GUIDE UPDATE
117
3. CONSIDER ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP WITH THE COACHELLA VALLEY
ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
127
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSS FORMATION OF MEASURE G SALES TAX CITIZEN OVERSIGHT
BOARD
135
2. DISCUSS SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTAL PROGRAM 2016 PROGRESS
AND 2017 GOALS
137
3. DISCUSS NORTH LA QUINTA LANDSCAPE RENOVATION 145
PUBLIC HEARINGS – 5:00 P.M.
For all Public Hearings on the agenda, a completed “Request to Speak” form must be
filed with the City Clerk prior to consideration of that item.
A person may submit written comments to City Council before a public hearing or
appear in support or opposition to the approval of a project(s). If you challenge a
project(s) in court, you may be limited to raising only those issues you or someone
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 4 MARCH 7, 2017
else raised at the public hearing or in written correspondence delivered to the City at,
or prior to the public hearing.
1. ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDMENT 2 TO THE OLD
TOWN LA QUINTA SPECIFIC PLAN 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058)
REMOVING THE VILLAS AT OLD TOWN PART B AND FIND THE
SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT EXEMPT PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT SECTION 15183 PROJECTS
CONSISTENT WITH A COMMUNITY PLAN, GENERAL PLAN OR ZONING
[RESOLUTION NO. 2017-008]
149
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
1. CITY MANAGER
2. CITY ATTORNEY
3. CITY CLERK
4. COMMUNITY RESOURCES
5. DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
6. FACILITIES
7. FINANCE – COUNTY SUCCESSOR AGENCY BOND REFUNDING 229
MAYOR’S AND COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ITEMS
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
1. CVAG COACHELLA VALLEY CONSERVATION COMMISSION (Evans)
2. CVAG ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE (Evans)
3. CVAG EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (Evans)
4. EAST VALLEY COALITION (Evans)
5. GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (Evans)
6. LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES DELEGATE (Evans)
7. COACHELLA VALLEY WATER DISTRICT POLICY COMMITTEE (Evans)
8. SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (Evans)
9. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Evans & Radi)
10. CALIFORNIA JOINT POWERS INSURANCE AUTHORITY (Fitzpatrick)
11. COACHELLA VALLEY MOUNTAINS CONSERVANCY (Fitzpatrick)
12. CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INFO EXCHANGE COMMITTEE (Fitzpatrick)
13. DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT COMMITTEE (Fitzpatrick and Radi)
14. COACHELLA VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITTEE (Fitzpatrick and Peña)
15. CANNABIS AD HOC COMMITTEE (Peña and Sanchez)
16. CVAG PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE (Peña)
17. CVAG VALLEY-WIDE HOMELESSNESS COMMITTEE (Peña)
18. JACQUELINE COCHRAN REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY (Peña)
19. CVAG TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE (Radi)
20. RIVERSIDE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION (RCTC) (Radi)
CITY COUNCIL AGENDA 5 MARCH 7, 2017
21.SUNLINE TRANSIT AGENCY (Radi)
22. DESERT SANDS SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITTEE (Radi and Sanchez)
23. ANIMAL CAMPUS COMMISSION (Sanchez)
24. IID ENERGY CONSUMERS’ ADVISORY COMMITTEE (Sanchez)
ADJOURNMENT
*********************************
The next regular meeting of the City Council will be held on March 21, 2017
commencing with closed session at 3:00 p.m. and open session at 4:00 p.m. at the City
Hall Council Chambers, 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253.
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Susan Maysels, City Clerk, of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that the
foregoing Agenda for the La Quinta City Council meeting was posted on the City’s
website, near the entrance to the Council Chambers at 78-495 Calle Tampico, and the
bulletin boards at the Stater Brothers Supermarket at 78-630 Highway 111, and the La
Quinta Cove Post Office at 51-321 Avenida Bermudas, on March 3, 2017.
DATED: March 3, 2017
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
Public Notices
The La Quinta City Council Chamber is handicapped accessible. If special equipment is
needed for the hearing impaired, please call the City Clerk’s office at 777-7103, twenty-
four (24) hours in advance of the meeting and accommodations will be made.
If special electronic equipment is needed to make presentations to the City Council,
arrangements should be made in advance by contacting the City Clerk’s office at 777-
7103. A one (1) week notice is required.
If background material is to be presented to the Councilmembers during a City Council
meeting, please be advised that eight (8) copies of all documents, exhibits, etc., must
be supplied to the City Clerk for distribution. It is requested that this take place prior to
the beginning of the meeting.
Any writings or documents provided to a majority of the City Council regarding any
item(s) on this agenda will be made available for public inspection at the Community
Development counter at City Hall located at 78-495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta,
California, 92253, during normal business hours.
6
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 1 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21, 2017
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at 3:00 p.m. by
Mayor Evans.
PRESENT: Councilmembers Fitzpatrick, Peña, Radi, Sanchez, Mayor Evans
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA - None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Councilmember Peña asked that Consent Calendar Item No. 5 be pulled for a separate
vote. Council concurred.
CLOSED SESSION
1. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9(d)(1). ALVERIZ ET AL. V. CITY OF LA
QUINTA ET AL., RIVERSIDE COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT CASE NO. PSC 1503161;
BARTON ET AL. V. CITY OF LA QUINTA ET AL., RIVERSIDE COUNTY SUPERIOR
COURT CASE NO. PSC 1505200
2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54957.6; CITY DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE: CHRIS ESCOBEDO,
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RESOURCES; AND EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION: LA
QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION
3. CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8 FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT:
SILVERROCK RESORT (APNs 770-200-026; 776-150-021; 776-150-023; 770-
060-056; 770-060-057; 770-060-058; 770-060-059; 770-060-061; 770-060-
062; 777-490-004; 777-490-006; 777-490-007; 777-490-012; 777-490-014
CITY NEGOTIATOR: FRANK J. SPEVACEK, CITY MANAGER
NEGOTIATING PARTIES: ROBERT S. GREEN, SILVERROCK DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY
UNDER NEGOTIATION: PRICE AND TERM OF PAYMENT FOR THE SALE OF REAL
PROPERTY
4. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION (QUARTERLY REVIEW)
PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957, COUNCIL APPOINTED
POSITION – CITY MANAGER
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 1
7
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 2 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING AND MOVED
INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 3:04 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MEETING AT 4:00 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke reported that no actions were taken in Closed Session on Item Nos.
1 or 2 that require reporting pursuant to Government Code section 54957.1 (Brown
Act). Mr. Ihrke explained that the Council will return to Closed Session at the end of
the open session to take up discussions on Item Nos. 3 and 4.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember Fitzpatrick led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA - None
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVE MINUTES OF FEBRUARY 7, 2017
2. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 554 ON SECOND READING AMENDING THE LA QUINTA
MUNICIPAL CODE BY ADDING THE REQUIREMENT FOR LANDSCAPE-RELATED
BUSINESSES TO COMPLETE A COURSE ON OVERSEEDING ALTERNATIVES AND
WATER EFFICIENCY TO CHAPTER 3.28 BUSINESS LICENSES AND CHAPTER 8.13
WATER EFFICIENT LANDSCAPING
3. AUTHORIZE OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR COMMUNITY RESOURCES DIRECTOR AND
HUMAN RESOURCES ANALYST TO ATTEND THE LIEBERT CASSIDY WHITMORE
PUBLIC SECTOR LAW CONFERENCE IN ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA, MARCH 8 – 10,
2017
4. AUTHORIZE OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO ATTEND LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES PUBLIC
WORKS OFFICERS INSTITUTE IN SAN DIEGO, CALIFORNIA, MARCH 22 – 24,
2017
5. pulled by Councilmember Peña for a separate vote >>> APPROVE AMENDMENT
NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH DAHL CONSULTANTS,
INC. TO DESIGN THE REQUIRED UPDATED WATER METER FOR THE CIVIC
CENTER LAKE AND IRRIGATION CONVERSION IMPROVEMENTS
8
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 3 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
6.APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH
ESGIL CORPORATION, JAS PACIFIC, AND YOUNG ENGINEERING SERVICES FOR
ON-CALL BUILDING CODE PLAN REVIEW SERVICES
7. EXCUSE ABSENCE OF PLANNING COMMISSIONER HANSEN FROM THE FEBRUARY
14, 2017 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
8. APPROVE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS AND DISPOSAL OF CITY OWNED
MOTORCYCLES
9. APPROVE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS EQUIPMENT
10. APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED FEBRUARY 3 AND 9, 2017
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Peña/Fitzpatrick to
approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1-4 and 6-10 as recommended, with Item No. 2
adopting Ordinance No. 554. Motion passed unanimously.
COUNCILMEMBER PEÑA ANNOUNCED THAT HE MAY HAVE A CONFLICT OF
INTEREST DUE TO THE PROXIMITY OF HIS PROPERTY TO THE PROJECT
PROPOSED BY CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 5 AND HE WILL RECUSE HIMSELF
FROM ANY DISCUSSION OR VOTE ON THIS ITEM.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Radi to
approve Consent Calendar Item No. 5 as recommended.
Motion passed: ayes 4, noes 0, abstain 1 (Peña)
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1.PRESENTATION ON SAFELY SURRENDERED BABY AWARENESS MONTH BY
DAVID LaCLAIR, FIRE BATTALION CHIEF
Fire Battalion Chief David LaClair explained that the Safely Surrendered Baby law (the
SSB law - California Health and Safety Code, section 1255.7) provides a safe
alternative for the surrender of a newborn baby by a parent or person with lawful
custody to a designated fire station or other designated site, without fear of
prosecution, within 72 hours of birth.
2. PRESENTATION REGARDING BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB OF LA QUINTA BY SIAH NIX,
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Mr. Nix explained the joint program of the Boys and Girls Club and the La Quinta Police
to increase communication, engagement and understanding between local law
enforcement personnel and teens.
9
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 4 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
BUSINESS SESSION
1. APPOINT A COUNCILMEMBER TO THE CANNABIS AD HOC COMMITTEE
Councilmember Radi said it’s important to keep this Ad Hoc Committee active for the
purpose of keeping tabs on new laws, rules and to influence federal government
action if possible. Councilmember Radi nominated Councilmember Sanchez to serve
with Councilmember Peña as the Cannabis Ad Hoc Committee.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Radi/Fitzpatrick to
appoint Councilmember Sanchez to serve on the Council’s Cannabis Ad Hoc
Committee. Motion passed unanimously.
2. RECEIVE AND FILE FISCAL YEAR 2016/17 OPERATING AND CAPITAL
IMPROVEMENT MID-YEAR BUDGET REPORT, APPROVE THE RECOMMENDED
BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS, AND ADOPT RESOLUTION TO AMEND MANAGEMENT
ASSISTANT CLASSIFICATION SPECIFICATION [RESOLUTION NO. 2017-004]
Finance Director Karla Campos presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s
Office.
Councilmembers discussed the difference between excise and sales tax; reasons for
various revenue adjustments and expenditure adjustments; future CalPERS
adjustments and City liability, and; showing public safety-related expenditures
separately in the Community Resources department budget.
Councilmembers requested that future budget documents show public safety-related
expenditures separately from the managing department’s budget figures.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Radi to
receive and file Fiscal Year 2016/17 Operating and Capital Improvement Mid-Year
Budget Report; approve the recommended budget adjustments; and adopt Resolution
No. 2017-004 amending the Management Assistant classification specification.
Motion passed unanimously.
STUDY SESSION
1. GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU (CVB) UPDATE
BY PRESIDENT/CEO SCOTT WHITE
Scott White, CVB President and CEO provided background on the CVB, current
programs, studies and surveys, visitor and promotion statistics, and initiatives planned
for the future, including the need to consider providing airline service subsidies soon.
10
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 5 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
Councilmembers discussed CVB studies and surveys available to staff for free; portions
of the CVB’s Destination Development Plan that staff may be able to take the lead on;
staff’s ability to upload information into CVB’s sustainable site; connecting CVB’s
efforts with La Quinta’s economic development activities; joint meeting of CVB and La
Quinta Economic Development Subcommittee; cross-promotion with the other Valley
cities for Valley-wide coverage, such as along Highway 111, of 1-2 events per city per
year; involve the Coachella Valley Association of Government in coordinating cross-
promotion; need to stress locally grown during events; CVB invited to work with La
Quinta staff to activate action plans presented.
2. DISCUSS THE COACHELLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS (CVAG)
DRAFT ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT (DEIR) FOR THE CV LINK MULTI -
MODAL TRANSPORTATION PROJECT
Planning Manager Perez presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s Office.
Councilmembers discussed including in the DEIR safety block-off measures in case of
emergencies; enhancing some of the visual screenings planned; option for
homeowners to cover path views with plant material; safety concerns for motorists,
bicyclists, pedestrians, skaters, etc. crossing at Highway 111 and Point Happy if CV Link
path ends there – not the preferred alternative; need to include and address public’s
security and maintenance concerns; CV Link budget must include police officers or
drone costs, and; absence in DEIR of speed limit to be set for path.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mark Johnson, La Quinta – Mr. Johnson, now retired from CVWD, said
he spoke as a resident only and has provided written comments on the DEIR to CVAG
and the City. Mr. Johnson said he does not support the current goals of the CV Link
because the Valley already has plenty of public lands for recreation. He supports
Alternative 3, or a complete redesign and new DEIR.
Councilmembers’ continued discussion included: the initial purpose of CV Link to
provide a safe walkway and biking experience away from Highway 111, to provide
freedom for children to safely bike across the Valley, and do so along a relatively flat
path making it usable for all family members; multiple benefits to La Quinta such as
adventure, entertainment and connection – another La Quinta amenity; the need and
desire for low and moderate activities as an alternative to currently available
mountain and desert hikes; State and Federal grants indicate they favor CV Link-like
projects; La Quinta’s advance planning and readiness for CV Link; connections from CV
Link to La Quinta facilities, parks, commercial sectors, and GoldenVoice events;
advantages to business owners along Highway 111, some could have a second
entrance for signage on CV Link; CV Link offers opportunities for new businesses such
as bike and equipment rental, and; need to explore revenue potential for City of La
Quinta.
11
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
Councilmembers agreed that La Quinta should continue to support the project as the
residents’ survey indicated, stay involved in the planning process, and decide as the
project takes shape whether to fully commit La Quinta to participation.
3. DISCUSS THE COACHELLA VALLEY CONSERVATION COMMISSION (CVCC) DRAFT
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT REPORT FOR THE LA QUINTA PENINSULAR BIGHORN
SHEEP BARRIER PROJECT
Planning Manager Perez presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s Office.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mark Johnson, La Quinta – Mr. Johnson said he has provided written
comments on the DEIR, and as a golfer and hiker, is in favor of Alternative C which is
the shortest length of fencing and does not impact hiking. He said it was important to
ensure that Alternative C did not contain any requirement for the City to provide,
purchase or pay for replacement acreage for any habitat area lost to the Sheep by the
fence.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Katie Barrows, Director of Environmental Resources, CVCC – Ms.
Barrows provided information and answers to Councilmembers’ questions including:
the DEIR does not include a preferred alternative because the CVCC is still working
with homeowners; a final EIR could be available as soon as April if CVCC doesn’t get a
huge number of comments on the DEIR; she would like CVCC Members to tour
SilverRock Golf Course to see the site and the animals first hand; providing food and
water assistance to Sheep during transition period back to exclusive mountain life is a
possibility; reason for push to have temporary fence installed before lambing season;
there is no answer to What’s Next?; agrees that it’s interesting that the Sheep are
occurring in large numbers on La Quinta’s golf course and not elsewhere - appears it is
an ideal location with steep slope for quick get-away from predators, and food and
water right at base of their natural habitat; Biologists don’t believe moving them to
inner mountains would solve the problem as others would take their place and before
moving any animals, must know the genetics of the groups; across their range,
population number are improving – for removal from the endangered list, need 25
females in a ewe group for a period of 6 years or so, and; results from the recent
studies of population numbers are just coming in.
Mayor Evans requested that CVCC provide some relief to the City by assisting with any
monitoring requirement imposed upon La Quinta, and that CVCC schedule a meeting
at SilverRock so CVCC Members understand the properties and extend of the problem.
Councilmember Peña said he favors Option No. 3 because these are Federal Sheep
coming out of their Federal land habitat onto City property. He said the City’s ultimate
goal is to protect the Sheep and although Option No. 3 initially removes 2,500 acres of
habitat, the Sheep have 250,000 acres available to term. Lastly, he said it was
unfortunate that the half million dollars being spent by the City for a temporary fence
could not have gone towards funding Option No. 3 as the permanent solution.
12
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 7 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
Councilmember Radi expressed concern that once SilverRock Golf Course was fenced
off, the Sheep would find their way into the La Quinta Cove or other city-owned
property causing new problems. He said that the “human habit” needs to be broken
so removing them completely from the area should be explored. Mr. Radi asked that
the CVCC also consider what would be required if the conditions that allow the Sheep
to reproduce abundantly in La Quinta are removed, and Sheep numbers start
declining again - would the City be required to remove the fence?
PUBLIC HEARINGS – None
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
All reports are on file in the City Clerk’s Office.
Councilmember Fitzpatrick requested that children’s books be included in the Little
Free Library boxes, especially in park locations, and in dog parks.
Councilmember Radi requested that the installation designed for the T-Rex art piece
temporary location by the Library be designed to accommodate a permanent future
art piece.
Development and Design Director Jonasson explained the purpose of SB1 and AB1.
Councilmember Sanchez stated that he is opposed to SB1 and AB1 because the State
repeatedly identifies transportation revenue sources to be funded by taxpayers then
continually borrows and redistributes those funds for other purposes, leaving
residents to pay indefinitely. He said he could not ask residents to pay more gas tax.
Mayor Evans and Councilmember Radi agreed that transportation funds have been
robbed over and over by the State, ideas for completing all the deferred maintenance
are scattered, and the proposed “monitors” of the tax funds are the ones who caused
the deferred maintenance of streets to occur. There was no Council consensus to
support SB1 and AB1 at this time.
MAYOR’S AND COUNCIL MEMBER’S ITEMS
Councilmember Peña thanked the Police for a great public safety expo event. He also
suggested sending a letter from Council to City of Whittier Council expressing
solidarity with them as they mourn the shooting of one of their Officers. Council
concurred.
Councilmember Fitzpatrick reported on the RSVP volunteer luncheon she attended as
representative of the Mayor and Council at which La Quinta resident Jim Davidson
sang the national anthem, and volunteers were credited with donating over 4,800
hours of service representing a value of approximately $112,000. Councilmember
Fitzpatrick also noted the sad loss of Tom Kennedy who was a tremendous historical
13
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
resource to the City. She said Mr. Kennedy’s recent talk to the Historical Society was
videotaped so the City is fortunate to have his oral history on record.
Mayor Evans noted that she attended the Palm Springs Air Museum event at which the
City, along with others, was recognized for its contribution for the Tuskegee Airmen
travel expenses to the event. She also attended The Tradition members-only tribute
to former resident, the late Arnold Palmer. The members are considering a museum
containing his memorabilia. Mayor Evans thanked all involved for organizing the
crime prevention expo, and reported on the meeting with the Board of Equalization
staff regarding Measure G 1% sales tax education.
Councilmember Radi announced the community outreach meeting set for Monday,
February 27, 2017 to gather input for a new X-Park design [specialty park for skating,
skateboarding, BMX-biking] will be held at La Quinta High School Teachers’ Lounge.
Councilmember Sanchez reported on the Board of Equalization outreach meeting he
attended with Mayor Evans, and the Crime Prevention event at City Hall which
showcased many fascinating security devices. He also reported on his first COP
[Citizens-on-Patrol] ride-along, and asked Council and staff to spread the word that
more volunteers are needed. Mr. Sanchez said he also enjoyed the Strut Your Mutt
event with La Quinta’s Police Chief as a judge, and a tour of the City’s traffic signal
operation from which he gained a whole new appreciation of this very complex
system.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
La Quinta’s representative for 2017, Councilmember Fitzpatrick reported on her
participation in the following organization meeting:
DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT COMMITTEE
La Quinta’s representative for 2017, Councilmember Peña reported on his
participation in the following organization meeting:
CVAG PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
CVAG VALLEY-WIDE HOMELESSNESS COMMITTEE
La Quinta’s representative for 2017, Councilmember Radi reported on his participation
in the following organization meeting:
DESERT RECREATION DISTRICT COMMITTEE
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING AND MOVED
BACK INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 7:16 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
MEETING AT 8:52 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
14
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 9 FEBRUARY 21, 2017
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke reported that no actions were taken in Closed Session on Item No.
3 that require reporting pursuant to Government Code section 54957.1 (Brown Act).
Mr. Ihrke also reported that Closed Session Item No. 4 was continued until the next
meeting.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by
Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Sanchez to adjourn at 8:53 p.m. Motion passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
15
16
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING 1 FEBRUARY 23, 2017
CITY COUNCIL, CITY BOARDS, AND CITY COMMISSIONS
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 2
SPECIAL JOINT COUNCIL AND CITY BOARDS
AND COMMISSIONS MEETING MINUTES
THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 23, 2017
A special meeting of the La Quinta City Council and City Boards, Commissions and
Committees was called to order at 6:05 p.m. by Mayor Evans at the La Quinta Library,
78275 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA.
PRESENT: Councilmembers Fitzpatrick, Peña, Radi, Sanchez, Mayor Evans
ALSO PRESENT:
PLANNING COMMISSIONERS:
Philip Bettencourt Frank Blum
Mary Caldwell John Hansen
Kevin McCune Robert Wright
COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSIONERS:
Felice Chiapperini Mark Johnson
Paula Simonds
HOUSING COMMISSIONER:
Howard Long
INVESTMENT ADVISORY BOARD MEMBERS:
George Batavick Jane Johnson
Sherwyn Turbow Steven Rosen
IID ENERGY CONSUMERS ADVISORY COMMITTEE (La Quinta Representative):
George Christopher
CVAG TRAILS MANAGEMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (La Quinta Representative):
Jeff Smith
Mayor Evans led the audience in the pledge of allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON AGENDA - None
17
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING 2 FEBRUARY 23, 2017
CITY COUNCIL, CITY BOARDS, AND CITY COMMISSIONS
STUDY SESSION
1. UPDATES ON CITY PROJECTS AND DISCUSSION OF CITY-RELATED MATTERS
OFMUTUAL INTEREST
A. REVENUE PROJECTIONS
Finance Director Campos explained the City’s Projections by Fiscal Year.
[spreadsheet handout available in the City Clerk’s Office]
B. SILVERROCK DEVELOPMENT
City Manager Spevacek provided an update on the SilverRock development
project.
C. MEETING RULES AND PROCEDURES
City Clerk Maysels provided a summary of the City’s Rules of Procedure for
public meetings, and City Attorney Ihrke provided a summary of the Fair
Political Practices Commission conflict of interest regulations. [Rules handout
available in the City Clerk’s Office]
Mayor Evans explained that this item was added to the agenda to assist the
new Members and Chairpersons appointed this year. She said that the Council
appreciates Members’ willingness to get more involved in the City but with that
comes expectations. For those not familiar with the Brown Act, Mayor Evans
suggested meeting with the City Clerk for a review of the procedures.
The Mayor said that Council has some expectations of Members which includes:
Being prepared to discuss and vote on all matters on the meeting agenda;
Contacting your staff liaison in advance of the meeting with questions not
answered by staff reports;
Reaching out to the City Clerk or City Manager if additional information is
needed;
Respecting staff’s time;
Being a positive representative of the City and feeling free to contact the
Mayor or any Councilmember if a Member feels matters are not moving in
the right direction;
Taking advantage of La Quinta’s transparency by using the resources on the
website to search for additional information on an item;
Realizing that you were chosen by Council and are now part of the team,
that along with Council, is charged with making the best, and often tough
decisions to move the City forward, not to rubber-stamp matters placed on
your agendas;
Realizing the difference between raising informed concerns as opposed to
personal agendas, personal interests, and personal endeavors;
18
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING 3 FEBRUARY 23, 2017
CITY COUNCIL, CITY BOARDS, AND CITY COMMISSIONS
Alerting your staff liaison when you intend to contact a developer or other
outside party to discuss a City matter within your jurisdiction so that word
does not get back to staff and Council that people are out in the community
representing themselves as Commission/Board Members asking for access
to information that may, or may not, be appropriate; and
Respecting the role of Chairperson and realizing that s/he needs to maintain
control of the meeting which can mean enforcing Speaker time limits.
Councilmembers added that they are each available individually and welcome
contact from any Members; they count on Members’ recommendations
to make decisions; Council wants to insure the integrity of the process; and
that Councilmembers listen to the audio recordings of Board/Commission
meetings if a contentious topic is discussed or a passionate debate occurs,
hence Council requires only “action” minutes from their Boards/Commissions.
D. QUESTIONS AND COMMENTS
City Manager Spevacek and Staff answered Board and Commission Members’
questions regarding:
The status of recommendations made by the citizen’s Advisory Committee;
Spending plans for the additional 1% sales tax revenue from Measure G;
Measure G oversight committee formation;
Summary of the top five capital improvements projects for next five years;
Projected five year police expenses and options to minimize increases;
Population growth expectations in the Valley and City;
Economic development plans for 2017;
Prospects for new businesses opening in City in 2017;
Efforts to assist with leasing/purchase of vacant big-box retail buildings;
Parking for hikers at the top of the cove;
Big Horn Sheep fence alternatives;
Animal Control checks on compliance with dog leash laws on public lands;
Police patrol in north La Quinta;
Landscape improvement project timeline in north La Quinta;
Accessory dwelling units zoning ordinance;
CV-link status; and
Citywide traffic flow evaluation.
Mayor Evans and Councilmembers each provided closing comments which included
thanking all Commissioners/Board Members for their time, diligence and input;
acknowledging the assistance Boards/Commissions provide to Council with their
recommendations, and; each Councilmember’s willingness to meet individually with
any resident.
19
SPECIAL JOINT MEETING 4 FEBRUARY 23, 2017
CITY COUNCIL, CITY BOARDS, AND CITY COMMISSIONS
Mayor Evans concluded the meeting by announcing upcoming events and thanked all
residents for passing Measure G last November which she said was a critical step to
accomplishing many improvements on the community’s wish list.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by
Councilmembers Radi/Fitzpatrick to adjourn at 8:08 p.m. Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
20
City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 07, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED FEBRUARY 17 AND 24, 2017
RECOMMENDATION
Approve demand registers dated February 17 and 24, 2017.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY – None
FISCAL IMPACT
Demand of Cash:
City 1,233,070.02$
Successor Agency of RDA 1,355.00$
Housing Authority 4,462.50$
Housing Authority Commission -$
1,238,887.52$
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
Between Council meetings, routine bills and payroll must be paid. Attachment 1 details
the weekly demand registers for February 17 and February 24, 2017.
Warrants Issued:
113985-114086 355,981.69$
114087-114149 224,757.73$
Voids -$
Wire Transfers 414,511.16$
Payroll Direct Deposit 163,136.78$
Payroll Tax Transfers 80,500.16$
1,238,887.52$
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 3
21
The most significant expenditures on the demand register listed above are as follows:
Account Name Amount
Conserve Landcare Various 39,415.00$ Feb - Lansdscape Maint
County of Riverside Fire Service 51,885.96$ 1st & 2nd Quarter
Emergency MGMT Dept.Costs E.M.D. Services
Michael Baker Design 65,762.74$ Oct - SilverRock Phase II
International Inc.Professional Services
Hayward Tilton & Earthquake 80,496.00$ Earthquake Insurance
Rolapp Insurance Policy FY 17-18
PurposeVendor
Wire Transfers: Eight wire transfers totaled $414,511.16. Of this amount, $182,606.33 was
to Landmark Management, $100,000.00 was for Four Seasons Escrow and $88,778.85 for
PERS Health. (See Attachment 2 for a full listing).
ALTERNATIVES
Council may approve, partially approve, or reject the demand registers.
Prepared by: Derrick Armendariz, Account Technician
Approved by: Karla Campos, Finance Director
Attachments: 1. Demand Registers
2. Wire Transfers
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
2/28/2017 7:33:55 PM Page 1 of 2
City of La Quinta, CA
Revenue Summary Report All Funds
December 2016 Summary
For Fiscal: 2016/17 Period Ending: 12/31/2016
Fiscal
AcƟvity
Variance
Favorable
(Unfavorable)
Period
AcƟvityFund
Current
Total Budget
Original
Total Budget
Percent
Used
101 - GENERAL FUND 9,698,705.844,176,419.6340400600.00 42,183,600.00 -32,484,894.16 22.99 %
201 - GAS TAX FUND 885,202.7868,219.921299100.00 1,264,500.00 -379,297.22 70.00 %
202 - LIBRARY FUND 667,106.1914,624.172250000.00 2,250,000.00 -1,582,893.81 29.65 %
210 - FEDERAL ASSISTANCE FUND 0.000.00125800.00 125,800.00 -125,800.00 0.00 %
212 - SLESF (COPS) FUND 71,069.238,434.70100100.00 100,100.00 -29,030.77 71.00 %
213 - JAG FUND 0.420.009000.00 9,000.00 -8,999.58 0.00 %
215 - LIGHTING & LANDSCAPING FUND 512,714.000.001447400.00 1,447,400.00 -934,686.00 35.42 %
218 - CV VIOLENT CRIME TASK FORCE 17,685.83647.1822600.00 22,600.00 -4,914.17 78.26 %
219 - ASSET FORFEITURE 48.0832.900.00 0.00 48.08 0.00 %
220 - QUIMBY FUND 27,308.4618,498.9687000.00 87,000.00 -59,691.54 31.39 %
221 - AB 939 3,823.392,616.0952500.00 52,500.00 -48,676.61 7.28 %
223 - MEASURE A 240,194.2962,606.03752500.00 752,500.00 -512,305.71 31.92 %
224 - TUMF 163.08123.110.00 0.00 163.08 0.00 %
225 - INFRASTRUCTURE FUND 122.7383.980.00 0.00 122.73 0.00 %
235 - SO COAST AIR QUALITY FUND 14,030.5913,778.9245300.00 45,300.00 -31,269.41 30.97 %
241 - HOUSING AUTHORITY 655,553.18105,379.07889600.00 889,600.00 -234,046.82 73.69 %
249 - SA 2011 LOW/MOD BOND FUND 773.37128.060.00 0.00 773.37 0.00 %
250 - TRANSPORTATION DIF FUND 226,470.5755,393.23669000.00 669,000.00 -442,529.43 33.85 %
251 - PARKS & REC DIF FUND 112,659.4530,720.00350000.00 350,000.00 -237,340.55 32.19 %
252 - CIVIC CENTER DIF FUND 54,472.0614,130.00200000.00 200,000.00 -145,527.94 27.24 %
253 - LIBRARY DEVELOPMENT DIF 18,920.005,160.0065000.00 65,000.00 -46,080.00 29.11 %
254 - COMMUNITY CENTER DIF 7,646.362,316.3835600.00 35,600.00 -27,953.64 21.48 %
255 - STREET FACILITY DIF FUND 9,451.732,701.9235000.00 35,000.00 -25,548.27 27.00 %
256 - PARK FACILITY DIF FUND 2,207.19606.197000.00 7,000.00 -4,792.81 31.53 %
257 - FIRE PROTECTION DIF 25,044.176,495.0080000.00 80,000.00 -54,955.83 31.31 %
270 - ART IN PUBLIC PLACES FUND 30,397.608,487.9798500.00 98,500.00 -68,102.40 30.86 %
299 - INTEREST ALLOCATION FUND 0.00-204,895.620.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 %
310 - LQ FIN AUTHORITY DEBT SVC 636,339.130.00678100.00 678,100.00 -41,760.87 93.84 %
401 - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS 2,364,600.571,361,436.687327300.00 20,006,554.38 -17,641,953.81 11.82 %
501 - EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT 289,012.01197,134.60456100.00 456,100.00 -167,087.99 63.37 %
502 - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 428,924.00215,116.16849800.00 844,800.00 -415,876.00 50.77 %
503 - PARK EQUIP & FACILITY FND 281,257.46143,406.68534700.00 534,700.00 -253,442.54 52.60 %
504 - INSURANCE FUND 321,798.45157,002.23648300.00 648,300.00 -326,501.55 49.64 %
601 - SILVERROCK RESORT 1,477,522.86348,546.774034800.00 4,034,800.00 -2,557,277.14 36.62 %
602 - SILVERROCK GOLF RESERVE 61,709.311,694.1561400.00 61,400.00 309.31 100.50 %
Report Total:6,817,045.06 19,142,934.3863,612,100.00 78,034,754.38 -58,891,820.00 24.53 %
2/28/2017 7:31:10 PM Page 1 of 2
City of La Quinta, CA
Expense Summary Report All Funds
December 2016 Summary
For Fiscal: 2016/17 Period Ending: 12/31/2016
Fiscal
AcƟvity
Variance
Favorable
(Unfavorable)
Period
AcƟvityFund
Current
Total Budget
Original
Total Budget
Percent
Used
101 - GENERAL FUND 14,392,893.194,861,158.7441241800.00 47,128,654.96 32,735,761.77 30.54 %
201 - GAS TAX FUND 626,610.42183,294.201299200.00 1,339,700.00 713,089.58 46.77 %
202 - LIBRARY FUND 234,957.9189,288.431717400.00 1,820,317.75 1,585,359.84 12.91 %
210 - FEDERAL ASSISTANCE FUND 0.000.0020200.00 20,200.00 20,200.00 0.00 %
212 - SLESF (COPS) FUND 12,358.137,198.610.00 0.00 -12,358.13 0.00 %
215 - LIGHTING & LANDSCAPING FUND 598,801.59119,780.391467400.00 1,468,700.00 869,898.41 40.77 %
218 - CV VIOLENT CRIME TASK FORCE 4,269.78-81.1346700.00 46,700.00 42,430.22 9.14 %
220 - QUIMBY FUND 291,239.3789,349.97437300.00 4,395,288.74 4,104,049.37 6.63 %
221 - AB 939 460.100.0020000.00 20,000.00 19,539.90 2.30 %
223 - MEASURE A 565,574.31210,282.16651000.00 1,755,784.32 1,190,210.01 32.21 %
235 - SO COAST AIR QUALITY FUND 0.000.0030000.00 30,000.00 30,000.00 0.00 %
241 - HOUSING AUTHORITY 484,698.8076,022.37960200.00 975,400.00 490,701.20 49.69 %
250 - TRANSPORTATION DIF FUND 69,351.7744,302.16675900.00 3,489,738.61 3,420,386.84 1.99 %
252 - CIVIC CENTER DIF FUND 15,174.8015,174.800.00 0.00 -15,174.80 0.00 %
253 - LIBRARY DEVELOPMENT DIF 3,509.693,509.690.00 0.00 -3,509.69 0.00 %
255 - STREET FACILITY DIF FUND 4,083.904,083.900.00 0.00 -4,083.90 0.00 %
256 - PARK FACILITY DIF FUND 961.92961.920.00 0.00 -961.92 0.00 %
257 - FIRE PROTECTION DIF 1,271.501,271.500.00 0.00 -1,271.50 0.00 %
270 - ART IN PUBLIC PLACES FUND 3,148.730.00129000.00 329,000.00 325,851.27 0.96 %
310 - LQ FIN AUTHORITY DEBT SVC 638,020.501,683.00678100.00 678,100.00 40,079.50 94.09 %
401 - CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAMS 2,295,342.79456,908.10190400.00 20,196,783.38 17,901,440.59 11.36 %
501 - EQUIPMENT REPLACEMENT 103,169.6627,276.45498900.00 559,176.00 456,006.34 18.45 %
502 - INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 386,183.5964,317.22848800.00 848,800.00 462,616.41 45.50 %
503 - PARK EQUIP & FACILITY FND 48,752.509,097.90603700.00 680,200.00 631,447.50 7.17 %
504 - INSURANCE FUND 509,515.706,841.70649200.00 649,700.00 140,184.30 78.42 %
601 - SILVERROCK RESORT 1,790,649.41290,841.744262200.00 4,262,500.00 2,471,850.59 42.01 %
Report Total:6,562,563.82 23,081,000.0656,427,400.00 90,694,743.76 67,613,743.70 25.45 %
City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION DESIGNATING SPEED LIMITS FOR CERTAIN
STREETS
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution approving legal speed limits on certain local streets, as recommended
in the “Engineering and Traffic Survey for the City of La Quinta” dated February 2017
prepared by Willdan Engineering.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•State law requires speed limits be updated via an engineering and traffic survey
before a police department may use radar enforcement.
•An engineering and traffic survey accounts for: 1) prevailing speed, 2) accident
history, and 3) roadway characteristics not readily apparent to the motorist.
•The survey designated two segments for speed limit adjustments.
FISCAL IMPACT
Purchasing/installing new signs is $1,000; funds are available in the sign budget in
Account No. 201-7003-60429 (Traffic Signs).
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
In order to enforce speed limits using radar, they must be set in accordance with the
California Vehicle Code (CVC). Per the CVC, vehicle speeds are determined by the behavior
of a majority of drivers during normal driving conditions. Jurisdictions may not establish
arbitrary speed limits. Attachment 1 presents speed limits for the City. The two
proposed changes are:
Street Segment Posted Proposed
Avenida Bermudas Calle Arroba to Calle Tecate 30 35
Avenue 54 West End to Jefferson Street Not posted 30
ALTERNATIVES
No alternative is recommended.
Prepared by: Ed Wimmer, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
Attachment: 1. Speed Limits Map
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 5
43
44
RESOLUTION NO. 2017 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING SPEED LIMITS
WHEREAS, the California Vehicle Code authorizes cities to designate and
regulate speed zones within their jurisdictions; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds it appropriate to designate speed limits on the
following local streets to facilitate safe and orderly traffic flow; and
WHEREAS, said designation shall be made by resolution; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds it appropriate to designate speed limits for 2
street segments; and
WHEREAS, in accordance with the provisions of Title 12.20.020 of the La Quinta
Municipal Code, an engineering and traffic survey has been performed on the specified
streets; and
WHEREAS, the following designated prima facie speed limits are based on the
results of the engineering and traffic survey; and
Street Segment Speed
Limit
(mph)
Avenida Bermudas Calle Arroba to Calle Tecate 35
Avenue 54 West End to Jefferson Street 30
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Quinta,
California, as follows: the aforementioned prima facie speed limits are most
appropriate to facilitate the orderly movement of traffic and to be reasonably safe.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La Quinta City
Council held on this 7th day of March 2017, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
45
Resolution No. 2017-
Designate Speed Limits
Adopted: March 7, 2017
Page 2 of 2
___________________________________
LINDA EVANS, Mayor
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
________________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
(CITY SEAL)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
WILLIAM H. IHRKE, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
46
LEGEND:
CITY OF LA QUINTA
SPEED LIMITS
ATTACHMENT 1
47
48
City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING:
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO REAFFIRM ADOPTION OF ANNUAL ASSESSMENT
FOR COUNTY SERVICE AREA 152; AUTHORIZE RIVERSIDE COUNTY TO CONTINUE TO LEVY
ASSESSMENTS; AND INDEMNIFY AND HOLD THE COUNTY HARMLESS FOR LEVYING
ASSESSMENTS ON CITY PARCELS
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to reaffirm adoption of annual assessment for County Service Area
152, authorize Riverside County to continue to levy assessments, and indemnify and hold
the County harmless for levying assessments on City parcels.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•The City has an agreement with Riverside County (County) wherein the County
assesses properties within the City for the maintenance and operations of street
sweeping, flood control, retention basin, and other drainage activities within the
City in order to improve overall storm water quality.
•These activities are required under the Clean Water Act and the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Program.
•Annually, the City Council must adopt a resolution authorizing the County to
assess City parcels and holding the County harmless for levying the assessments.
•For Fiscal Year 2017/18, the assessment rate per parcel will remain unchanged
from its original 1997 rate of $9.99 per Benefit Assessment Unit.
FISCAL IMPACT
County Service Area (CSA) 152 assessments will generate approximately $285,000 during
2017/18, $100,000 of which is used to offset retention basin maintenance in the City-
wide lighting and landscape maintenance district. The remaining $185,000 is used
towards street sweeping, flood control maintenance and other drainage activities within
the City.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
In 1991, the County enacted CSA 152 to provide funding for local jurisdictions to maintain
flood control and storm drain facilities. In 1994, the City joined CSA 152 and in 1997, the
City Council adopted a resolution approving the Benefit Assessment Unit rate of $9.99.
The City/County Agreement is available for review in the Public Works Department.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 6
49
The recommended action continues the City’s participation in CSA 152 and authorizes the
County to levy and collect these assessments for 2017/18. Per Proposition 218, the
County cannot increase this assessment without conducting a benefit study, and then
setting rates wherein properties closer to the improvements that are maintained by the
assessments pay a higher assessment.
ALTERNATIVES
The City receives approximately $285,000 from the CSA 152 assessments, which helps
offset flood control and storm drain maintenance costs. Since this requires annual
affirmation of the requirements of CSA 152, staff does not recommend an alternative.
Prepared by: Bryan McKinney, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
50
RESOLUTION NO. 2017 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF
LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, MAKING FINDINGS AND
REAFFIRMING THE ESTABLISHMENT AND SETTING OF RATES
FOR THE COUNTY SERVICE AREA 152 TO FUND THE CITY’S
STREET SWEEPING PROGRAM AND OPERATE AND MAINTAIN
THE CITY’S DRAINAGE AND FLOOD CONTROL SYSTEMS
WHEREAS, the Riverside County Service Area 152 (CSA 152) was created under
the Benefit Assessment Act of 1982 (Government Code Section 54702, et seq.), which
authorized local agencies to impose benefit assessments to finance the maintenance
and operation costs of flood control and drainage systems, based on the
proportionate storm water runoff from each parcel; and
WHEREAS, under the federally-mandated but unfunded National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination System Program, the City is required to have a valid permit from
the Regional Water Quality Control Board to discharge water runoff from properties
within the boundaries of the City; and
WHEREAS, street sweeping is a pro-active method of ensuring pro-active
maintenance from street runoff into the flood control and drainage systems of the
City; and
WHEREAS, the City is a co-permittee of Permit No. CAS-617002 with the
Coachella Valley Water District, County of Riverside and the incorporated cities
therein; and
WHEREAS, the City, by its Resolution No. 97-39, adopted on May 20, 1997,
authorized Riverside County to levy and establish a Benefit Assessment Unit rate for
the 1997-1998 Fiscal Year CSA 152 assessments; and
WHEREAS, the City by its Resolution No. 97-39, adopted on May 20, 1997,
agreed to indemnify and hold the County harmless for levying Assessments on the
City parcels under CSA 152; and
WHEREAS, the City uses revenues from CSA 152 assessments solely for the
purpose of maintaining and operating the City’s flood control and drainage system to
comply with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System Permit and to
provide street sweeping within the City of La Quinta; and
WHEREAS, Proposition 218, adopted by voters on November 6, 1996,
established new procedures and approval requirements for all existing assessments,
unless the assessment is exempt from the new requirements; and
51
Resolution No. 2017-
CSA 152
Adopted: March 7, 2017
Page 2 of 3
WHEREAS, certain assessments that existed on November 6, 1996, are
specifically exempt from the Proposition 218 procedures and approval requirements,
including assessments imposed exclusively to finance the capital costs and
maintenance and operation expenses for sidewalks, streets, sewers, water, flood
control, drainage systems or vector control.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Quinta,
California, as follows:
Section 1. The City Council finds the foregoing recitals to be true and correct.
Section 2. The City Council finds and declares that the City’s CSA 152 charges are
assessments within the definition of California Constitution Article XIIID, Section 2(b),
in that they confer special benefits upon each parcel of property subject to the
assessments.
Section 3. The City Council finds and declares that pursuant to Article XIIID, Section
5(a), the City’s CSA 152 assessments are exempt from the new procedures and
approval requirements of Article XIIID, Section 4, because the City’s CSA 152
assessments existed before November 6, 1996, and the assessments are imposed
exclusively to finance the capital costs and maintenance and operation expenses for
street sweeping, flood control, and drainage systems in the City.
Section 4. The City Council hereby reaffirms its adoption of the annual assessment
for CSA 152 and hereby determines that the annual assessment rate for Fiscal Year
2017/2018 for CSA 152 is to be set at nine dollars and ninety-nine cents ($9.99) per
Benefit Assessment Unit. The method of computation has not been changed nor has
the rate of assessment been increased since August 6, 1996.
Section 5. The City Council hereby authorizes the County of Riverside to levy
assessments under CSA 152 for the benefit of the City. The City agrees that it shall
indemnify, defend and hold County and members of its Board, and its officers,
employees and agents harmless from (1) any and all claims, demands, and causes of
action of any kind or nature whatsoever and (2) any and all liability of any kind or
nature whatsoever that may arise out of or be caused by, or be attributable to the
imposition, collection, or allocation of any tax (special or general), assessment fees or
charges, and/or any other revenue generated through City’s application of reliance on
or use of County Service Area 152.
52
Resolution No. 2017-
CSA 152
Adopted: March 7, 2017
Page 3 of 3
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the La Quinta City
Council held on this 7th day of March, 2017, by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_____________________________
LINDA EVANS, Mayor
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
_______________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, CITY CLERK
City of La Quinta, California
(CITY SEAL)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
______________________________________
WILLIAM H. IRHKE, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE FINAL PARCEL MAP NO. 36964
LOCATED AT THE SOUTHEAST CORNER OF CALLE QUITO AND AVENIDA LA JARITA; AND FIND
THE PROJECT EXEMPT PURSUANT TO CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
EXEMPTIONS CLASSES 3, 15, AND 32
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to approve Final Parcel Map 36964 located at the southeast corner of
Calle Quito and Avenida La Jarita; and find the project exempt from environmental review
pursuant to California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) exemptions Classes 3, 15, and 32.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•The owner/developer of a 19,943 square foot vacant residential lot at the southeast
corner of Calle Quito and Avenida La Jarita is subdividing the property into two lots.
•On February 17, 2016, the Design and Development Director (Director) approved
Tentative Parcel Map (TPM) 36964 and Minor Adjustment (MA) 2016-0001) to allow
a lot size reduction in one lot.
•On February 29, 2016, Mr. George Bushala (Appellant) appealed the Director’s
approval to the Planning Commission.
•On March 22, 2016, the Planning Commission denied the appeal and sustained the
Director’s decision.
•On April 6, 2016, Appellant appealed the Planning Commission’s decision to the City
Council.
•On May 3, 2016, Council granted appeal of TPM 36964 and MA 2016-0001 and
referred the project back to the Director with instructions.
•On November 16, 2016, the Director approved TPM 36964 and MA 2016-0001 per
Council’s direction.
•Owner requests approval of Final Parcel (FPM) 36964.
•Approval of the FPM is a ministerial action required after conditions of approval have
been satisfied.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 7
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FISCAL IMPACT
None, no off-site improvements are required with this FPM.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The project is located in an existing neighborhood at the southeast corner of Calle Quito
and Avenida La Jarita (Attachment 1). The owner is Rick Morris (Owner). The proposed
subdivision generates two lots of 10,000 and 9,943 square feet that may be developed with
two single-family homes. The property is located in the Low Density Residential (RL) zone,
which establishes a 10,000 square-foot minimum lot size; however, Municipal Code
Chapter 9.210.040 allows the reduction of development standards through a MA. On
February 17, 2016, the Director approved TPM 36964, which subdivides the property into
two lots, and MA 2016-0001, which, allows a lot size reduction of 57 square feet (for one
lot). This slightly smaller lot size is consistent with the surrounding lots and would not
represent a perceptible size difference.
The Planning Division determined that this project is Categorically Exempt from further
CEQA review pursuant to Section 15303, Class 3 (New Construction), Section 15315, Class
15 (Minor Land Divisions), and Section 15332, Class 32 (In-Fill Development Projects). The
proposed subdivision facilitates development of single-family residential units on a site
that is no more than five acres, and is substantially surrounded by urban uses.
After the Director’s decision approving TPM 36964 and MA 2016-0001, the Appellant filed
an appeal to the Planning Commission, which considered the Director’s decision on March
22, 2016. The Appellant’s grounds for appeal and City staff’s responses are addressed
under “Appeal of Design and Development Director’s Determination” on Planning
Commission staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1 on March 22, 2016 (Attachment 2).
At the conclusion of the public hearing, the Planning Commission voted unanimously, with
one member absent, to deny the appeal, thereby sustaining the Director’s decision.
Appellant subsequently filed an appeal to the Council, which considered the Planning
Commission’s decision on May 3, 2016 and additional grounds for appeal that were not
presented by Appellant when Planning Commission heard his appeal. All of Appellant’s
grounds for appeal and staff’s responses are addressed under “Staff Analysis of Appeal” on
Council staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1 on May 3, 2016 (Attachment 3). At the
conclusion of the public hearing, the Council granted the appeal of TPM 36964 and MA
2016-0001 and referred the project back to the Director with instructions to address
minimum lot frontage requirements, submit an archaeology report, and to re-notice the
public hearing and reference CEQA exemptions Classes 3, 15, and 32 for the Director’s
consideration.
After the Owner has addressed the minimum 60-foot lot frontage requirement and
submitted a cultural resource report, City staff re-noticed the Director’s public hearing with
reference to CEQA exemptions Classes 3, 15, and 32 to all property owners within 500 feet
of the project. The cultural resource report concluded that the project site has been
previously disturbed by grading and placement of fill to unknown depths. The study
recommends suspension of construction activities in the event of an unanticipated
discovery until a qualified archaeologist evaluates it. Condition of Approval No. 27 has
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been added based on recommendations of the cultural resource report. On November 16,
2016, the Director approved TPM 36964 and MA 2016-0001.
FPM 36964 (Attachment 4) has passed technical review and the Owner is requesting
approval of the FPM.
ALTERNATIVES
Staff does not recommend an alternative action.
Prepared by: Bryan McKinney, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
Attachments: 1. Vicinity Map
2. Planning Commission staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1 on
March 22, 2016
3. City Council staff report for Public Hearing Item No. 1 on May 3, 2016
4. Parcel Map 36964
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V I C I N I T Y M A P
NOT TO SCALE
ATTACHMENT 1
pARCEL map no. 36964
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ATTACHMENT 2 ATTACHMENT 4ATTACHMENT 4 81
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT
WITH HERMANN DESIGN GROUP FOR ON-CALL PROFESSIONAL LANDSCAPE
ARCHITECTURAL SUPPORT SERVICES
RECOMMENDATION
Approve Amendment No. 2 to Professional Services Agreement with Hermann Design
Group for on-call professional landscape architectural support services, to increase the
contract authority from $100,000 to $200,000; and authorize the City Manager to
execute the amendment.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On October 6, 2015 Council awarded an on-call landscape architect contract to
streamline delivery of turf conversion and other landscape projects.
Additional design work is needed for the North La Quinta Landscape Renovation
Plan .
These projects will be expedited upon approval of this amendment (Attachment
1).
FISCAL IMPACT
No additional funding is requested. Existing individual project budgets within the CIP
budget will fund the designs.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
Last year’s $100,000 of on-call contract authority has been expended to include:
construction support for North La Quinta Parkway Turf Conversion – Del Oro, YMCA
Building Turf Conversion, landscape design for North La Quinta Parkway Turf Conversion
– Highlands; and preparation of proposed 3 year $10 million North La Quinta Landscape
Renovation Plan.
The proposed additional $100,000 of contract authority would be used only to expedite
design of the North La Quinta Landscape Renovation.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 8
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ALTERNATIVES
Council may elect not to approve the amendment and bid this work. This would delay
the Landscape Renovation Plan.
Prepared by: Ed Wimmer, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
Attachment: 1. Professional Services Agreement, Amendment No. 2
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ATTACHMENT 1
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: APPROVE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE, AND
ADVERTISE THE TENNIS AND PICKLEBALL COURT CONVERSION IMPROVEMENTS AT FRITZ
BURNS PARK (PROJECT NO. 2016-04)
RECOMMENDATION
Approve plans, specifications, engineer’s estimate, and authorize staff to advertise the
Tennis and Pickleball Court Conversion Improvements at Fritz Burns Park.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•This project is in direct response to multiple resident requests for pickleball
courts and additional tennis courts at Fritz Burns Park. (Attachment 1)
•Improvements will include converting: one tennis court to four pickleball courts,
the skate park to two tennis courts, resurfacing of the remaining tennis courts,
and installing benches within the tennis courts.
•The existing skate park will be relocated to the adjoining parking lot prior to
starting this work.
FISCAL IMPACT
The project is in the FY 2016/17 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) and has Quimby
Funds assigned in the amount of $437,250. Considering the engineer’s estimate in the
amount of $330,000, the following is the anticipated project budget:
Tennis and Pickleball
Project Budget
Professional: $ 15,000
Design: $ 15,000
Inspection/Testing/Survey: $ 29,250
Construction: $ 330,000
City Administration: $ 15,000
Contingency: $ 33,000
Total Budget: $ 437,250
The engineer’s estimate includes two additive alternates for a different tennis and
pickleball net mounting system and a different type of seating.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 9
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BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
Pickleball is a paddle sport that is played on a court approximately one quarter of the
size of a tennis court. It is growing in popularity and multiple requests have been made
to include a separate court at Fritz Burns Park. The City has also received multiple
requests for additional tennis courts. Fritz Burns Park currently has six tennis courts
and one skate park. The skate park is currently located on two existing tennis courts.
Staff proposes to relocate the skate park to the underutilized parking lot adjacent to the
skate park. This area is smaller but staff anticipates the future X-Park will handle
overflow. A new concrete pad will be poured over the existing damaged concrete once
the skate park has been relocated to the parking lot. The area will then be converted
into two tennis courts. The tennis court located at the northwest side of the park will be
converted to four pickleball courts. This court will provide separation between the
tennis players and pickleball players as shown in Attachment 2.
Contingent upon approval to advertise the project for bid on March 7, 2017, the
following is the project schedule:
Council Bid Authorization March 7, 2017
Bid Period March 8, 2017 to April 6, 2017
Council Considers Project Award April 18, 2017
Execute Contract and Mobilize April 19 to May 17, 2017
Construction (45 Working Days) May/July 2017
Accept Improvements August 2017
ALTERNATIVES
Staff does not recommend an alternative.
Prepared by: Ed Wimmer, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
Attachments: 1. Vicinity Map
2. Site Map
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Fritz Burns Park
Tennis and Pickle Ball Court Conversion
PROJECT LOCATION:
Fritz Burns Park
Vicinity Map
ATTACHMENT 1
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SITE PLAN
ATTACHMENT 2
Fritz Burns Park Tennis & Pickle Ball Court Conversion
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: INTRODUCE FOR FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5.90
OF, AND ADDING CHAPTER 5.91 TO, THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE, RELATING TO THE
REGULATION OF THE DELIVERY OF MEDICAL CANNABIS IN THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND
CONFORMING AMENDMENT PURSUANT TO STATE ADULT USE OF MARIJUANA ACT
RECOMMENDATION
A. Move to take up Ordinance by title and number only and waive further reading.
B. Move to introduce at first reading of the Ordinance amending Chapter 5.90 and adding
Chapter 5.91 to the La Quinta Municipal Code relating to the regulation of the delivery of
medical cannabis in the City of La Quinta and conforming amendment pursuant to State
Adult Use of Marijuana Act.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On December 15, 2015, the City Council created an ad hoc committee (Committee)
to evaluate the City’s ordinance on medical cannabis deliveries.
Chapter 5.91 was added to address the regulation and licensing of medical cannabis
delivery services.
With the passing of Prop. 64, the Committee also reviewed minor conforming
amendments to the ordinance.
FISCAL IMPACT – None.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
On December 15, 2015, City Council created a Committee comprised of Councilmember
Peña and former Councilmember Franklin to evaluate the City’s ordinance on cannabis
deliveries. The first of six meetings was held on January 28, 2016 and included residents,
medical professionals, and medical cannabis delivery business owners.
Initially, the Committee reviewed City Ordinance Chapter 5.90 Cannabis Related Uses,
Commercial Cannabis Activities, Deliveries, and Cultivation Prohibited and considered
examples of other city ordinances for medical cannabis delivery allowances. Chapter 5.91
was added to the ordinance to specifically address the regulation and licensing of medical
cannabis delivery services within the city.
BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 1
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Amendments were also added to address the passing of Prop 64. Prop. 64 is designed to
allow responsible use of marijuana by adults 21 and over within a tightly regulated system,
which includes the ability for cities to ban commercial cannabis activities except (i) personal
cultivation/use and (ii) transportation of cannabis on public roads. Aside from these state-
authorized uses and limited medical delivery, the City’s ban on dispensaries and other
prohibitions on cannabis related uses and commercial cannabis activities would remain in
place under the proposed ordinance.
ALTERNATIVES
Staff does not recommend an alternative at this time.
Prepared by: Gilbert Villalpando, Management Specialist
Approved by: Frank J. Spevacek, City Manager
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ORDINANCE NO. ___
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 5.90 AND ADDING CHAPTER 5.91 TO THE
LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE, RELATING TO THE
REGULATION OF THE DELIVERY OF MEDICAL
CANNABIS IN THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND
CONFORMING AMENDMENT PURSUANT TO STATE
ADULT USE OF MARIJUANA ACT
WHEREAS, on November 5, 1996, the voters of the State of California approved
Proposition 215, codified as Health and Safety Code Section 11362.5 et seq., and
entitled the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 (“CUA”). The CUA exempts qualified
patients and their primary caregivers from criminal liability under state law for the
possession and cultivation of cannabis (marijuana) for personal medical use; and
WHEREAS, the intent of the CUA was to enable persons in the State of
California who are in need of cannabis for medicinal purposes to obtain it and use it
under limited, specified circumstances; and
WHEREAS, the State Legislature enacted Senate Bill 420 in October 2003,
codified a Health and Safety Section 11362.7, et seq., (“Medical Marijuana Program
Act,” or “MMPA”) to clarify the scope of the Compassionate Use Act of 1996 and to
allow cities and other governing bodies to adopt and enforce rules and regulations
consistent with SB 420. The MMPA created a state-approved voluntary medical
cannabis identification card program and provided for certain additional immunities from
state cannabis laws. Assembly Bill 2650 (2010) and Assembly Bill 1300
(2011) amended the Medical Marijuana Program to expressly recognize the authority of
counties and cities to “[a]dopt local ordinances that regulate the location, operation, or
establishment of a medical marijuana [cannabis] cooperative or collective” and to civilly
and criminally enforce such ordinances; and
WHEREAS, the CUA and MMPA do not “legalize” cannabis, but provide limited
defenses to certain categories of individuals with respect to certain conduct and certain
state criminal offenses; and
WHEREAS, in City of Riverside v. Inland Empire Patients Health and Wellness
Center, Inc. (2013) 56 Cal.4th 729, the California Supreme Court held that “[n]othing in
the CUA or the MMP expressly or impliedly limits the inherent authority of a local
jurisdiction, by its own ordinances, to regulate the use of its land[,]”; and
WHEREAS, the Federal Controlled Substances Act, 21 U.S.C. § 801 et seq.,
classifies marijuana [cannabis] as a Schedule 1 Drug, which is defined as a drug or
other substance that has a high potential for abuse, that has no currently accepted
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medical use in treatment in the United States, and that has not been accepted as safe
for use under medical supervision. The Federal Controlled Substances Act makes it
unlawful under federal law for any person to cultivate, manufacture, distribute or
dispense, or possess with intent to manufacture, distribute or dispense, cannabis. The
Federal Controlled Substances Act contains no exemption for medical purposes; and
WHEREAS, on October 9, 2015 Governor Brown signed three bills into law (AB
266, AB 243, and SB 643) which collectively are known as the Medical Marijuana
Regulation and Safety Act (“MMRSA”). MMRSA established a state licensing scheme
for commercial medical cannabis uses while protecting local control by requiring that all
such businesses must have a local license or permit to operate in addition to a state
license. MMRSA allows a City to regulate cannabis delivery activities; and
WHEREAS, the City Council finds that unregulated cannabis delivery activities
can adversely affect the health, safety, and well-being of City residents. Citywide
regulation and licensing of medical cannabis delivery is proper and necessary to
minimize the risks of criminal activity and other impacts that may result from such
activities; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the MMRSA, on or about January 19, 2016, the City
Council adopted Ordinance No. 532, which added Chapter 5.90 to the La Quinta
Municipal Code, prohibitin throughout the City all Cannabis related uses, including but
not limited to “Cooperatives,” “Cultivation,” “Deliveries,” “Dispensaries,” and other
“Commercial Cannabis Activities” (as defined in Chapter 5.90) for which a state license
is required under the MMRSA; and
WHEREAS, in response to concerns raised by members of the public and
residents of the City, the City Council directed the formation of the Ad Hoc Cannabis
Committee to review and evaluate a potential amendment to the La Quinta Municipal
Code that would allow for limited delivery of medical cannabis to residents within the
City that would otherwise not have the ability to obtain easily medical cannabis under
the City’s ban of all Commercial Cannabis Activities; and
WHEREAS, on November 8, 2016, California voters approve Proposition 64, the
Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act (the “Adult Use Act”), which
generally sets forth comprehensive statutory provisions regulating
nonmedical/recreational cannabis at all levels of use and commerce; and
WHEREAS, the Adult Use Act authorizes local jurisdictions to enforce state laws
and regulations for nonmedical/recreational cannabis businesses, to enact additional
local requirements for nonmedical/recreational cannabis businesses, and to ban
nonmedical/recreational businesses; and
WHEREAS, the Adult Use Act (Health and Safety Code sections 11362.1(a)(3)
and 11362.2(b)(2)) authorizes “personal use” of nonmedical/ recreational cannabis for
persons 21 years of age or older, and the Adult Use Act specifically allows such
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persons to possess, plant, cultivate, harvest, dry, or process not more than six living
marijuana plants and possess the marijuana produced by the plants, and state law
preempts local jurisdictions from completely prohibiting persons engaging in this
personal use of nonmedical/recreational cannabis inside a private residence or inside a
fully enclosed and secure accessory structure to a private residence located on the
grounds of a private residence; and
WHEREAS, the Adult Use Act (Business and Professions Code
section 26080(b)) preempts local jurisdictions from preventing transportation of
cannabis or cannabis products on public roads by a licensee transporting cannabis or
cannabis products in compliance with state law, but the Adult Use Act (Business and
Professions Code sections 26090(b) and 26200(a)) specifically authorizes local
jurisdictions to adopt and enforce local ordinances that regulate, or completely prohibit,
nonmedical/recreational cannabis businesses that may be licensed to operate under the
Adult Use Act, including businesses that may be licensed under state law for the
delivery of nonmedical/recreational cannabis or cannabis products; and
WHEREAS, after multiple meetings and discussions, including with the City
Attorney’s Office and other interested stakeholders, the Ad Hoc Cannabis Committee
has submitted a proposed ordinance for consideration by the City Council.
NOW, THEREFORE, the City Council of the City of La Quinta does ordain as
follows:
SECTION 1: Recitals. The foregoing recitals are true and correct and are
incorporated herein as though set forth in full.
SECTION 2: Authority. This ordinance is adopted pursuant to the authority granted
by the California Constitution and state law, including but not limited to Article XI,
Section 7 of the California Constitution, the CUA, the MMPA, and the MMRSA.
SECTION 3: Adoption. Section 5.90.020 of the La Quinta Municipal Code is hereby
amended, and Chapter 5.91 is hereby added to the La Quinta Municipal Code, as
written in Exhibit A attached hereto.
SECTION 4:
SECTION 5:
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SECTION 6:
SECTION 7:
SECTION 8:
PASSED, APPROVED and ADOPTED, at a regular meeting of the La Quinta
City Council held this ___ day of _________, 20__ by the following vote:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
_____________________________
LINDA EVANS, Mayor
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
___________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
(CITY SEAL)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
________________________________
WILLIAM H. IHRKE, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
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STATE OF CALIFORNIA )
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE ) ss.
CITY OF LA QUINTA )
I, SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk of the City of La Quinta, California, do hereby certify
the foregoing to be a full, true, and correct copy of Ordinance No. ___ which was
introduced at a regular meeting on the __ day of ______________, 2015, and was
adopted at a regular meeting held on the __ day of ______________, 2015, not being
less than 5 days after the date of introduction thereof.
I further certify that the foregoing Ordinance was posted in three places within the City
of La Quinta as specified in City Council Resolution No. 2014-013.
_________________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk of the City of La Quinta, California, do hereby certify
that the foregoing ordinance was posted on _______________, 2015 pursuant to
Council Resolution.
_________________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
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EXHIBIT A
CHAPTER 5.90 of the La Quinta Municipal Code is amended, to read:
5.90.010 Definitions.
“Cannabis” shall mean all parts of the plant Cannabis sativa linnaeus, Cannabis indica,
or Cannabis ruderalis, whether growing or not; the seeds thereof; the resin, whether
crude or purified, extracted from any part of the plant; and every compound,
manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of the plant, its seeds, or resin.
“Cannabis” also means the separated resin, whether crude or purified, obtained from
marijuana. “Cannabis” also means “marijuana” as defined by Section 11018 of the
California Health and Safety Code, and Section 26001(s) of the California Business and
Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time. as enacted by Chapter 1407
of the Statutes of 1972. The term “Cannabis” shall also have the same meaning as
“cannabis” set forth in Section 19300.5(f) of the California Business and Professions
Code, as may be amended from time to time. “Cannabis” does not include the mature
stalks of the plant, fiber produced from the stalks, oil or cake made from the seeds of
the plant, any other compound, manufacture, salt, derivative, mixture, or preparation of
the mature stalks (except the resin extracted therefrom), fiber, oil, or cake, or the
sterilized seed of the plant which is incapable of germination. For the purpose of this
chapter, “cannabis” does not mean “industrial hemp” as defined by Section 81000 of the
California Food and Agricultural Code or Section 11018.5 of the California Health and
Safety Code.
“Cannabis accessories” shall have the same meanings as “marijuana accessories” as
defined in Section 11018.2 of the California Health and Safety Code, and Section
26001(t) of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from
time to time.
“Cannabis products” shall have the same meanings as “marijuana products” as defined
in Section 11018.1 of the California Health and Safety Code, and Section 26001(u) of
the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time.
“Caregiver” or “primary caregiver” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section
11362.7 of the California Health and Safety Code, as may be amended from time to
time.
“Commercial cannabis activity” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section
19300.5(k) of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from
time to time. “Commercial cannabis activity” shall also have the same meaning as a
cannabis or marijuana “operation” as defined in Section 26001(w) of the California
Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time.
The “Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act” or “Adult Use Act” shall
mean and refer to that the provisions of law adopted by the voters by statewide ballot
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initiative (Proposition 64) on the November 8, 2016 General Election, as those
provisions of law may be amended from time to time.
“Cooperative” shall mean two or more persons collectively or cooperatively cultivating,
using, transporting, possessing, administering, delivering, or making available cannabis,
with or without cultivation.
“Cultivation” or “cultivate” shall have the same meaningmeanings as set forth in Section
19300.5(l) and Section 26001(e) of the California Business and Professions Code, as
may be amended from time to time.
“Delivery” shall have the same meaningmeanings as set forth in Section 19300.5(m)
and Section 26001(h) of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be
amended from time to time.
“Dispensary” shall have the same meaning set forth in Section 19300.5(n) of the
California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time. For
purposes of this chapter, dispensary shall also include a cooperative. Dispensary shall
not include the following uses: (1) a clinic licensed pursuant to Chapter 1 of Division 2 of
the California Health and Safety Code; (2) a health care facility licensed pursuant to
Chapter 2 of Division 2 of the California Health and Safety Code; (3) a residential care
facility for persons with chronic life threatening illnesses licensed pursuant to Chapter
3.01 of Division 2 of the California Health and Safety Code; (4) a residential care facility
for the elderly licensed pursuant to Chapter 3.2 of Division 2 of the California Health and
Safety Code; (5) a residential hospice or home health agency licensed pursuant to
Chapter 8 of Division 2 of the California Health and Safety Code.
“Distribution” or “distribute” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section 26001(j)
of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to
time.
“Manufacture” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section 26001(q), and
“manufacturer” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section 26001(r), of the
California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time.
“Medical cannabis” or “cannabis” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section
19300.5(ag) of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be amended
from time to time.
“Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act” or “MMRSA” shall mean and refer to the
following three bills signed into law on October 9, 2015, as the same may be amended
from time to time: AB 243, AB 266, SB 643.
“Qualifying patient” or “qualified patient” shall have the same meaning as set forth in
Section 11362.7 of the California Health and Safety Code, as may be amended from
time to time.
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5.90.020 Prohibitions.
A. Cannabis Related Uses. Except as provided in Chapter 5.91, all All cannabis related
uses, including, but not limited to, cooperatives, cultivation, deliveries, dispensaries,
distribution, manufacture, and other commercial cannabis activities for which a state
license is required under the MMRSA and the Adult Use Act, including cannabis uses
and operations relating to cannabis accessories and cannabis products, are prohibited
throughout the city. The city shall not issue any permit, or process any license or other
entitlement for any cannabis related use or any other activity for which a state license is
required under the MMRSA. No person shall establish, operate, conduct, permit or allow
any cannabis related use anywhere within the city as prohibited under this paragraph.
B. Commercial Cannabis Activities. Except as provided in Chapter 5.91, all All
commercial cannabis activities, including, but not limited to, cooperatives, cultivation,
deliveries, and dispensaries, distribution, and manufacturing, are expressly prohibited
throughout the city regardless of whether or not the commercial cannabis activity is for
medical cannabis or cannabis used for medicinal purposes. The city shall not issue any
permit, or process any license or other entitlement for any commercial cannabis activity.
No person shall establish, operate, conduct, permit or allow a commercial cannabis
activity anywhere within the city.
C. Cannabis Deliveries. Except as provided in Chapter 5.91, all All deliveries of
cannabis and medical cannabis are expressly prohibited in the city. No person shall
conduct any deliveries of cannabis or medical cannabis that either originate or terminate
at any location within the city.
D. Cannabis Cultivation. Except as provided in Chapter 5.91, the The cultivation of
cannabis, regardless of whether for commercial or non-commercial purposes, and
including cultivation by a qualified patient or primary caregiver is expressly prohibited
throughout the city. No person, including, but not limited to, a qualified patient or primary
caregiver, shall cultivate any amount of cannabis in the city, regardless of whether or
not the cannabis is intended to be used for medical purposes.
[NO FURTHER AMENDMENTS TO CHAPTER 5.90]
CHAPTER 5.91 is added to the La Quinta Municipal Code, to read:
CHAPTER 5.91 MEDICAL CANNABIS DELIVERY SERVICES
5.91.010 Definitions.
“Cannabis” shall have the same meaning as set forth in Section 5.90.010 of this
code.
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“Cannabis accessories” shall have the same meanings as set forth in Section
5.90.010 of this code.
“Cannabis products” shall have the same meanings as set forth in Section
5.90.010 of this code.
“Caregiver” and “primary caregiver” shall have the same meaning as set forth in
Section 5.90.010 of this code.
“Commercial Cannabis Activities” shall have the same meaning as set forth in
Section 5.90.010 of this code.
The “Control, Regulate and Tax Adult Use of Marijuana Act” or “Adult Use Act”
shall have the same meaning set forth in Section 5.90.010 of this code.
“Delivery Driver” shall mean any person who drives or operates a Delivery
Vehicle for a Delivery Service in which Medical Cannabis is delivered.
“Delivery Service” shall mean a person engaged in the business, whether for
profit or nonprofit, of owning, controlling and/or operating one or more Delivery Vehicles
which transport, carry, distribute, and/or deliver Medical Cannabis anywhere in the city.
“Delivery Service” also includes the use of any technology platform owned, controlled,
or operated by any person that enables Qualified Patients or Primary Caregivers to
arrange for or facilitate the commercial transfer of Medical Cannabis. “Delivery Service”
also includes any dispensary that provides for the delivery of Medical Cannabis as
described in Section 19300.5(m) of the California Business and Professions Code.
“Delivery Vehicle” shall mean a motor vehicle, as that term is defined in the
California Vehicle Code, used for the transportation of Medical Cannabis.
“Medical Cannabis” shall have the same meaning as set forth in
Section 19300.5(ag) of the California Business and Professions Code, as may be
amended from time to time. “Medical Cannabis” also means “medical cannabis
products” as described in Section 19300.5(ag) of the California Business and
Professions Code.
“Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License” and “license” shall mean a license
issued pursuant to this chapter to a Delivery Service.
“Person” shall mean any individual person, firm, association, organization,
partnership, joint venture, business trust, corporation, company, or entity of any kind
whatsoever.
“Qualified Patient” shall have the meaning set forth in California Health and
Safety Code section 11362.7, as may be amended from time to time.
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5.91.020 Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License.
A. All Commercial Cannabis Activities are prohibited in the city except for:
1. A Delivery Service to deliver Medical Cannabis to a Qualified
Patient from a Delivery Vehicle authorized pursuant to this chapter;
2. Personal use pursuant to Sections 11362.1(a)(3) and
11362.2(b)(2) of the California Health and Safety Code, as may be amended
from time to time; and
3. Transportation of cannabis or cannabis products on public roads by
a licensee transporting cannabis or cannabis products in compliance with the
Adult Use Act, pursuant to Section 26080(b) of the California Business and
Professions Code, as may be amended from time to time.
B. Every Delivery Service shall obtain a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service
License and business license from the city prior to any operation within the city.
C. A Delivery Service shall comply with restrictions and conditions applicable
to Delivery Services under validly issued Medical Cannabis Delivery Service Licenses.
5.91.030 Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License Exemption.
A Qualified Patient or Caregiver engaged in the transportation of Medical
Cannabis for his or her own personal use is exempt from the requirement of obtaining a
Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License.
5.91.040 Fees and Term.
A. Every Delivery Service shall first apply for a Medical Cannabis Delivery
Service License, and pay a license application review and processing fee as
established by resolution of the City Council from time to time. Upon approval of the
Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License application, the Delivery Service shall pay
to the city a fee per Delivery Vehicle as established by resolution of the City Council
from time to time, and the city shall issue a Delivery Vehicle authorization placard for
each properly insured Delivery Vehicle. The annual Medical Cannabis Delivery Service
License renewal fee shall be as established by resolution of the City Council from time
to time. For purposes of completing a criminal background check, the city may adopt by
resolution a procedure by which each applicant shall present to the city the prescribed
amount set by the Department of Justice of the State of California for the processing of
the applicant’s fingerprints against any duly established fingerprint data base that may
be used for purposes of lawfully conducting a background check.
B. All licenses issued to Delivery Services shall be valid for a term of one
calendar year.
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C. None of the fees established pursuant to this section may be prorated or
refunded by the city to an applicant.
5.91.050 Application for License and Renewal.
A. Every application for a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License shall
be signed by the applicant and shall contain:
1. Name and address of the applicant. If the applicant is an entity,
such as a corporation, the application shall have names (such as trade names) and
address(es) for the business and/or service of legal process and other notices to the
entity. Any applicant and recipient of a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License shall
have an obligation to continuously provide updated and current names and address(es).
2. Kind and amount of public liability and property damage insurance
covering each Delivery Vehicle.
3. Valid driver’s license for any Delivery Driver and current registration
for any and all Delivery Vehicle(s).
4. Whether the applicant has been cited or fined by any other city or a
county for a violation of that city’s or county’s municipal code regulations concerning
cannabis related uses or commercial cannabis activities.
5. All information required of applicants for a business license in the
city.
B. Whenever a Delivery Service submits an application for a Medical
Cannabis Delivery Service License, or renewal thereof, the Delivery Service shall
identify the number of Delivery Vehicles that will operate under a Medical Cannabis
Delivery Service License. Each Delivery Vehicle shall have an authorization placard
that may be presented upon request whenever the Delivery Vehicle is providing
services authorized pursuant to this chapter. No delivery of Medical Cannabis is
authorized for any vehicle except for a Delivery Vehicle with an authorization placard
issued pursuant to a valid Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License.
5.91.060 Investigation of Application; Decision and Notification.
A. Each application shall be referred to the city manager or his or her
designee or designated department in the city for review.
B. The city manager, or his or her designee or designated department in the
city, shall notify the applicant in writing of a decision on an application. A decision on an
application (or renewal of a license) shall be to issue a valid Medical Cannabis Delivery
Service License (or renewal thereof) or deny the application and not issue a license. A
decision from the city manager, or his or her designee or designated department in the
city, shall be made within 7 business days of receipt of a complete (or deemed
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complete) application; provided, however, that the inability of the city to decide an
application within such timeframe shall not be grounds for any administrative or judicial
action or liability whatsoever against the city.
C. A decision for denial of an application shall include the reasons therefor,
and shall advise the applicant of the right to appeal. No license shall be issued unless a
successful appeal of the denial is made.
D. If an application for a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License (or
renewal thereof) is approved, an authorization placard for each Delivery Vehicle allowed
to operate under the Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License shall be issued, and
each authorization placard shall be specific to the Delivery Vehicle by unique vehicle
identification method, such as the valid registration for the Delivery Vehicle or other
unique identifying method.
5.91.070 Appeal of Denial of Application.
An appeal of a denial of an application for a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service
License shall be processed as an appeal to the city manager pursuant to Chapter 2.08
of the code. An appeal of the decision of the city manager may be processed pursuant
to Section 2.08.230 as an appeal to the city council.
5.91.080 Revocation and Suspension of License.
A. The city may give notice to a Delivery Service of its intention to revoke a
Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License. If deemed there is a risk to the general
public’s health, safety or welfare for the Delivery Service to continue operations pending
a revocation hearing, the city may suspend immediately the license and all rights and
privileges thereunder until the hearing on revocation.
B. The notice shall specify the reasons for the proposed revocation in
sufficient detail so as to fully inform the Delivery Service of the reasons which have
caused the notice to be given, and if the license has been suspended, the reasons for
such suspension.
C. The notice shall specify a time and place at which a revocation hearing will
be held before the city manager. The hearing before the city manager shall be
processed like an appeal to the city manager pursuant to Chapter 2.08 of the code. An
appeal of the decision of the city manager may be processed pursuant to Section
2.08.230 as an appeal to the city council.
5.91.090 Grounds for Denial, Revocation or Suspension.
A. A Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License (or renewal thereof) may be
denied, and an existing license may be revoked or suspended, if a Delivery Driver,
license holder, or applicant:
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1. Has knowingly made a false statement in a material matter either in
his or her application (or renewal of a license) or in any reports or other documents
furnished by him or her to the city.
2. Does not maintain and operate a Delivery Vehicle and other
equipment in the manner and in the condition required by law and applicable state and
city regulations.
3. Is or has been required to register as a sex offender under the
provisions of Section 290 of the California Penal Code.
4. Within 5 years immediately preceding the application submittal date
(or renewal of a license), has been convicted of any offense relating to the unlawful use,
sale, possession or transportation of narcotics or habit-forming drugs, other than
Cannabis, prohibited by any federal or state law.
5. Within 5 years immediately preceding the application submittal date
(or renewal of a license), has been convicted of any offense punishable as a felony or
has been convicted of the crime of theft in any degree.
6. Within 3 years immediately preceding the application submittal date
(or renewal of a license), has been under suspension, revocation or probation by the
California Department of Motor Vehicles for a cause involving the safe operation of a
motor vehicle, or has been convicted of driving under the influence involving bodily
injury or reckless driving involving bodily injury.
7. Within 3 years immediately preceding the application submittal date
(or renewal of a license), has been found responsible for a motor vehicle accident
causing death or personal injury.
8. Within 1 year immediately preceding the application submittal date
(or renewal of a license), has been involved in three or more motor vehicle accidents
unless evidence shows that none of the accidents were caused by or the fault of the
Delivery Driver, license holder, or applicant.
9. Has been convicted of any felony offense involving moral turpitude,
“depraved conduct,” or similar vile conduct that “shocks the public conscience .”
10. Has failed to pay the required license fees.
11. Has violated any condition of a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service
License issued to a Delivery Driver, license holder, or applicant.
12. Has violated any provision of this chapter, Chapter 5.90, or any
other provisions of the city’s code or any state law concerning the regulation of
Cannabis.
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B. The grounds for denial identified above are based on the powers of the
city under its general police power and obligation to protect and promote the public
health, safety, and welfare. Nothing in this section shall preclude the police chief or
other city or law enforcement official from providing a grounds for the denial of an
application, or a revocation or suspension of an existing license, based on relevant facts
and circumstances that affect the ability of Delivery Driver or Delivery Service to comply
with this chapter.
5.91.100 Delivery Service Compliance.
A. Each Delivery Service shall comply with all local and state laws.
B. Each Delivery Service shall obtain a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service
License from the city, and any other license required by the code for operation of the
Delivery Service in the city, such as a business license.
C. Each Delivery Service shall maintain a written record of every request for
Medical Cannabis, including the name of the requestor, the address for the delivery, the
quantity and type of Cannabis requested, the date and time the delivery request is
received, the Delivery Vehicle that is assigned to make the delivery, and the Delivery
Driver who is assigned to make the delivery.
D. Each Delivery Service shall assure that every Delivery Driver shall have a
copy of the record of the delivery request during the delivery of any Medical Cannabis in
the city.
E. Whenever a Delivery Vehicle is making a delivery pursuant to this chapter,
no Delivery Service shall permit any person other than a Delivery Driver, licensed in
accordance with this chapter, to operate its Delivery Vehicles in the city.
F. No Delivery Service shall deliver or authorize the delivery of any Cannabis
other than Medical Cannabis to a Qualified Patient or Caregiver.
G. Whenever a Delivery Vehicle is making a delivery pursuant to this chapter,
the Delivery Service shall have and may present upon request a current and valid
recommendation from a doctor licensed by the state to issue a recommendation for use
of Medical Cannabis to a Qualified Patient in the city.
H. Deliveries of Medical Cannabis shall be only to private residences and
Residential Care Facilities for the Elderly (RCFEs) operating pursuant to Chapter 3.2
(commencing with Section 1569) of Division 2 of the California Health and Safety Code
(as may be amended from time to time) and only if the RCFE authorizes delivery of
Medical Cannabis to its facility.
I. A Delivery Driver may possess no more than 8 ounces per patient of dried
Cannabis, and no more than 50 packages of non-flower processed Medical Cannabis.
All Medical Cannabis must be clearly packaged and labeled.
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J. Delivery Drivers shall be at least 21 years of age and shall be employees
of the Delivery Service or an independent contractor under binding agreement with the
Delivery Service as a Delivery Driver.
K. A list of the names and contact information of each Delivery Driver shall
be maintained by the Delivery Service, and the Delivery Service shall immediately
provide the names and contact information of Delivery Drivers to the city upon request.
L. Delivery Drivers shall not have more than $1,000 cash on their person or
in a Delivery Vehicle at any one time.
M. Medical Cannabis shall be stored in a secured case in the trunk portion of
a Delivery Vehicle. No Medical Cannabis is permitted within any other portion of a
Delivery Vehicle.
N. All Medical Cannabis shall be tested for potency, pesticides, and micro-
biological ingredients to ensure products are safe for use by Qualified Patients.
O. Testing information and credentials for Medical Cannabis shall be readily
available for inspection by code enforcement and police officers, and delivered within 24
hours if not immediately available.
P. Each Delivery Service shall maintain, for a minimum of 3 years, a written
accounting or ledger of all cash, receipts, credit card transactions, and reimbursements,
(including any in-kind contributions) as well as records of all operational expenditures
and costs incurred by the Delivery Service in accordance with generally accepted
accounting practices and standards typically applicable to business records.
Q. Each Delivery Service shall pay any applicable state and local taxes for
the delivery of Medical Cannabis within the city.
5.91.110 Insurance and Hold Harmless Requirements.
A. Any holder of a Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License shall hold
harmless and protect the city and its officials, officers, employees and agents, from any
loss or damage that allegedly arises under or may result to any person or property from
any activity authorized under this chapter, including the operation of a Delivery Vehicle
used by a Delivery Service. As a condition of approval for a license issued under this
chapter, the City may require automobile insurance or other policies of insurance as
would be reasonable to request of a Delivery Service operating pursuant t this chapter.
B. If insurance is a condition of approval, no Medical Cannabis Delivery
Service License shall be issued until the applicant first files with the city a certificate of
insurance, on a form acceptable by the city. The certificate shall provide evidence of
insurance in amounts and with conditions acceptable to the city and shall be approved
by the city manager or his or her authorized designee.
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C. Each Delivery Service shall, and by acceptance of the license, does agree
to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless the city, its officers, agents and employees
from any and all damages, claims, liabilities, costs (including attorney’s fees), suits or
other expenses resulting from and arising out of the Delivery Service’s operations.
5.91.120 Delivery Driver Requirements.
A. Every Deliver Driver shall have a valid California Driver’s License when
any delivery of Medical Cannabis is made.
B. Every Delivery Driver shall have any applicable state license required for
state authorization to operate the Delivery Service of Medical Cannabis.
5.91.130 Fee Authorization.
The city may adopt by resolution fees, service charges, or assessments in
amounts sufficient to pay for the costs of carrying out the provisions of this chapter.
5.91.140 Public Nuisance.
Any use or condition caused, or permitted to exist, in violation of any provision of
this chapter shall be, and is hereby declared to be, a public nuisance and may be
summarily abated by the city pursuant to Section 731 of the California Code of Civil
Procedure or any other remedy at law.
5.91.150 Violations.
A. In addition to any other enforcement permitted by the La Quinta Municipal
Code or state law, the city attorney may bring a civil action for injunctive relief and civil
penalties against any person who violates any provision of this chapter. In any civil
action that is brought pursuant to this chapter, a court of competent jurisdiction may
award civil penalties and costs to the prevailing party.
B. In addition to any other enforcement permitted by the La Quinta Municipal
Code or state law, a violation or violations under this chapter may result in the following
fines:
1. A fine of one thousand dollars for a first violation;
2. A fine of two thousand dollars for a second violation of the same
ordinance or permit within one year from the date of the first
violation; and
3. A fine of three thousand dollars for each additional violation of the
same ordinance or permit within one year from the date of the first
violation.
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C. In addition to any other enforcement permitted by the La Quinta Municipal
Code or state law, the City Manager or his/her designee may summarily deny, suspend,
or revoke any current or pending Medical Cannabis Delivery Service License and/or
business license pursuant to the provisions set forth in Section 2.04.100 (Appeals to
Council) of Chapter 2.04, or other applicable procedural provisions in the municipal
code, for any violation of this chapter. In addition to any other penalty imposed as part
of a suspension or revocation of any license, a suspension or revocation of a Medical
Cannabis Delivery Service License and/or business license pursuant to this section,
after notice and public hearing and
5.91.160 Provisions in Chapter Cumulative.
The prohibitions and provisions in this chapter are cumulative to any and all other
prohibitions and regulations in the La Quinta Municipal Code concerning Cannabis,
Medical Cannabis, and cannabis in general, and nothing in this chapter supersedes or
shall be construed to conflict with any other prohibitions and regulations in the La Quinta
Municipal Code, including Section 9.20.050, as may be amended from time to time.
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: APPROVE LEGISLATIVE POLICY GUIDE UPDATE
RECOMMENDATION
Approve the Legislative Policy Guide and authorize the Mayor, one Council Member, and
City Manager to issue letters within the scope of these policies.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The updated 2017 Legislative Policy Guide (Guide) will continue to serve as a tool
for the City to weigh in on legislative matters, which have direct impact on City
operations.
The Guide has been updated to incorporate legislative items that surfaced this
calendar year and includes legislation impacting the city in areas such as
transportation, public works, community development, public safety and
environment.
Over the years the guiding principals have served as the Council’s direction and will
continue to enable staff to immediately respond to proposed legislation in a timely
matter.
FISCAL IMPACT – None.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The legislative landscape is constantly changing, producing impending legislation with
potential impact on the City’s ability to conduct business and provide services. The Guide
(Attachment 1) enables the City to have a voice on emerging key issues and allows staff
to take immediate action on pressing legislation. Current issues before the legislature
impacting the City are:
AB 1 (Frazier)/ SB 1 (Beall) – Transportation funding: a package of revenues and
reforms that raise $6 billion annually (plus $706 million in one-time loan
repayments) with approximately $2.2 billion to repair and maintain state and
local roads, improve trade corridors, support transit, and fund active
transportation.
AB 199 (Chu) Public Works - Existing law requires private residential projects built
on private property that are built pursuant to an agreement with a state agency,
redevelopment agency, or local public housing authority to meet the
BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 2
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requirements for projects that are defined as "public works," including, among
other requirements, the payment of prevailing wages.
SB 2 (Atkins) – Building Homes and Jobs Act: With the loss of over $1 billion per
year of redevelopment housing funds, this measure would generate hundreds of
millions of dollars per year for affordable rental or ownership housing, supportive
housing, emergency shelters, transitional housing and other housing needs via a
$75 recordation fee on specified real estate documents.
The Guide presents the policies that guide the City’s legislative advocacy initiatives with
its interests which include: enhance local authority, sustain fiscal responsibility, foster
economic development, promote health and wellness, support public safety, and
encourage preservation of environment.
In addition, the Guide provides an overview of important legislative developments arising
in 2017 and connects them to emerging trends in our area. It also itemizes the City
Council’s policy position on key legislative areas such as economic development, finance,
transportation, and public safety among others.
The City receives informational updates on legislative efforts through a variety of
channels, including the League of California Cities, City lobbyist Gonsalves and Son, and
the City Attorney. Gonsalves and Sons provide weekly phone updates with staff and
Legislative Reports with an overview of each bill and current status.
ALTERNATIVES
As the Legislative Guide is a resource for both Council and Staff to expedite responses on
legislative matters, staff does not recommend an alternative.
Prepared by: Gil Villalpando, Management Specialist
Approved by: Frank J. Spevacek, City Manager
Attachment: 1. Legislative Policy Guide 2017
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2017
City of La Quinta
Legislative Policy Guide
ATTACHMENT 1
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2017 Legislative Policy Guide
The Legislative Policy Guide (Guide) is a tool for the City to navigate through the legislative
landscape. This document details the City’s policy positions on priority issues and provides a
comprehensive approach to allow staff to take immediate action on pressing legislation under
City Council direction. The guide identifies legislative trends and active legislation that may
have an impact on the City’s interests and affairs, and supplements other Council-established
goals and policies. It is intended to be updated on a regular basis.
Guiding Principles
I. Enhance Local Authority
The City of La Quinta is a charter city that supports legislation aimed at preserving local
authority. Additional regulation or mandates that undermine local control are detrimental
to quality service delivery.
II. Sustain Fiscal Responsibility
The City of La Quinta has been able to successfully maneuver through redevelopment
dissolution and economic downturn through prudent, disciplined spending and cost-
effective stewardship of City resources. Therefore, the City supports measures that
promote fiscal stability.
III. Foster Economic Development
The City of La Quinta generally supports legislative efforts designed to foster economic
development tools and funding options for effective service delivery.
IV. Promote Health and Wellness
The City of La Quinta actively seeks to promote a healthy and vibrant community that
provides various recreational activities and opportunities for residents to enjoy the unique
benefits of La Quinta.
V. Support Public Safety
The City of La Quinta strongly supports community safety by providing high quality law
enforcement and fire services and maintaining health and safety standards for its
residents.
VI. Encourage Preservation of Environment
The City of La Quinta is a thriving desert oasis that supports a proactive and thoughtful
stance regarding the enhancement and conservation of the desert environment that
surrounds us including the Salton Sea.
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This year the state legislature sent
Governor Brown 1,059 pieces of
legislation.
The Bill Breakdown
898 - governor signed into law
159 - governor vetoed
2 - became law without signing them
La Quinta Legislation Letters
9 - Supported
12 - Opposed
The Guide is to intentionally promote the
adoption of legislation that will establish
sound public policy for responsible
governance; protect and enhance public
health, safety and welfare; and aid the City’s
delivery of high quality services to its
residents.
The Guide is intended to articulate the City’s
positions on issues that are currently, or are
anticipated to be, the focus of future
legislation.
The positions contained in the Guide are
intended to supplement the broad range of
goals, policies and programs reflected in the
General Plan, the Municipal Code, and other
adopted documents. Therefore, advocacy
efforts may be based on references
articulated in these policy documents as
they provide current direction for the City
organization.
City departments are encouraged to review
proposed legislation to determine how it
relates to the City’s Legislative platform and
recommend a position that they determine
to be “high priority” and recommend that
the Mayor write letters, contact legislators,
and otherwise communicate the position of
the City as appropriate. The Mayor, or
designee, after conferring with City Manager,
may authorize staff to make contact with
legislators to advocate for or against
legislation which is consistent with the City’s
legislative platform.
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LEGISLATION IMPACTING US
The public policy landscape is constantly changing and it is incumbent on the City to stay up
to date on the latest developments. Anticipating the effects emergent legislation may have
on the community is therefore imperative. Below is a short outline of impact in key areas.
SB 1 (Beall) / AB 1 (Frazier) - Transportation Funding:
A package of revenues and reforms that raise $6 billion annually (plus $706 million in one-
time loan repayments) with approximately $2.2 billion to repair and maintain state and local
roads, improve trade corridors, support transit, and fund active transportation. It also adds
provisions to streamline projects and increase accountability.
Governor’s Transportation Budget:
While the regular and special session on transportation funding came to a close last year with
no resolution, the Governor’s new transportation funding proposal in this year’s budget
represents an increase to $43 billion over the next ten years. Of the $4.3 billion in new
funding for transportation, $1.16 billion would go to local streets and roads for maintenance
and rehabilitation.
SB 2 (Atkins) Building Homes and Jobs Act:
With the loss of over $1 billion per year of redevelopment housing funds, this measure would
generate hundreds of millions of dollars per year for affordable rental or ownership housing,
supportive housing, emergency shelters, transitional housing and other housing needs via a
$75 recordation fee on specified real estate documents.
AB 199 (Chu) Public Works: Private Residential Projects:
This bill would require private residential projects built on private property that are built
pursuant to an agreement with the state agency, redevelopment agency, or local public
housing authority to meet the requirements for projects that are defined as “public works.”
This bill has many very concerned in that it would make already scarce affordable housing
even more difficult to build by unnecessarily increasing costs to build. Companies that focus
on commercial real estate are also concerned in that if the Legislature decides to apply public
works requirements on housing projects of this type, it could very easily lead to similar
requirements on non-residential.
TRANSPORTATION & PUBLIC WORKS
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
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Prop 64 – California Marijuana Legalization Initiative:
Prop. 64 is designed to allow responsible use of marijuana by adults 21 and over within a
tightly regulated system. It allows adults to legally possess, transport, purchase, consume and
share up to one ounce of marijuana and 8 grams of concentrated marijuana. Adults may also
legally grow up to six plants at home. The newly-formed Bureau of Marijuana Control within
the Department of Consumer Affairs will coordinate efforts of the Departments of Public
Health and Food & Agriculture, among others, to oversee regulation for both medical and
nonmedical marijuana.
Prop 57 – Public Safety and Rehabilitation Act of 2016:
Proposition 57 is estimated to reduce the average daily adult inmate population by
approximately 2,000 in 2017‑18, growing to an inmate reduction of approximately 9,500 in
2020‑21. These figures are preliminary and subject to considerable uncertainty. The
implementation of Proposition 57 and other population reduction measures will allow the
Department to remove all inmates from one of two remaining out‑of‑state facilities in 2017‑
18. Additionally, as the impact of Proposition 57 grows, the Department anticipates returning
all 4,900 inmates from out‑of‑state facilities by 2020.
• Authorizes parole considerations for nonviolent inmates to complete the full sentence
for their primary offense.
• Allows inmates to earn credits for good behavior, education and rehabilitative
achievement.
• Requires judges rather than prosecutors to decide whether juveniles as young as 14-
years-old should be tried as adults.
Salton Sea:
The decline of the Sea poses the potential of serious impacts to wildlife and nearby residents.
The Salton Sea Management Program aims to develop 25,000 acres of wildlife habitat,
suppress dust, and pursue other projects over the next decade. Strengthened by a
Memorandum of Understanding with the U.S. Department of the Interior, and initially funded
with over $80 million from Proposition 1 in 2016‑17, the program is guided by a 10‑year plan
that aims to preserve and enhance the ecology, economy and public health of the Sea and
surrounding Colorado River region. Initial projects in the plan have begun construction, and
the state will coordinate with stakeholders to further implement the plan in 2017‑18.
PUBLIC SAFETY
Environment
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ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
FINANCE
HOUSING
ENVIRONMENT
Policy Positions
• The City of La Quinta supports economic development policies and funding mechanisms that foster a hospitable and thriving business environment.
• In light of budget shortfalls, the City supports public-private development opportunities that encourage economic activity and promote health and wellness within the City. • The City supports retaining financial flexibility and authority with regard to redevelopment dissolution matters. • Opposes measures that would make the City more dependent on the State for financial stability. • Supports legislation that facilitates the recoupment of City costs derived from State and Federal mandates.
• The City of La Quinta is a charter city that relies on contract services to provide efficient service delivery.
• Opposes any change in revenue allocations which would negatively affect local governments.
• Opposes any action that would preempt local control over locally imposed taxes and other funding sources.
• Supports legislation that develops programs to increase housing opportunities to meet growth demand in our area.
• Supports legislative efforts that provide incentives to local governments and private developers to develop additional housing opportunities including affordable housing for low income and disabled seniors, adults, and veterans.
• The City of La Quinta supports the preservation of
our environment.
• Supports financial incentives for water reuse and legislation that encourages the treatment of municipal wastewater for non-potable reuse and promote the development of reasonable regulations to encourage and maximize the responsible use of reclaimed water as an alternative to California’s fresh water supply.
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TOURISM
PUBLIC SAFETY
• The City of La Quinta supports measures that provide financing tools for increasing effective, clean transportation.
• Supports clean energy alternatives that are adequately funded.
• Supports State clean energy programs that are financially viable and direct funding to local government to invest in clean energy.
• The City of La Quinta supports developing vital infrastructure and streamlining the local, state, and federal process for infrastructure development in order to better meet local needs.
• Supports legislation that strengthens local authority over land use and infrastructure development.
• The City of La Quinta generally supports legislation that strengthens local law enforcement and safeguards communities.
• Supports measures aimed at providing sustained support for law enforcement to deal with the additional supervision and enforcement requirements of State-mandated realignment provisions.
• Opposes expansion of "early release" for offenders without necessary mechanisms in place for local law enforcement to provide corresponding services.
• The City of La Quinta strongly supports attracting
tourism.
• Supports efforts that help promote the City's hospitality, parks and recreation, health and wellness offerings, and entertainment venues.
• Supports working closely with public and private agencies to help boost advertisement and other means of garnering tourism.
• Supports measures that provide funding for parks and recreation programs.
TRANSPORTATION & INFRASTRUCTURE
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Monthly Overview of Legislative Calendar for 2017
Below is an overview that summarizes major legislative events and key dates that
occur month to month, and following is the 2016 Legislative Calendar created by the
Office of the Secretary of the Senate.
January: The previous year’s laws go into effect during this month. Legislature
reconvenes to discuss the new year of legislation ahead, and all bill requests
must be submitted before the end of the month. Budgets must be submitted by
the Governor during the beginning portion of the month.
February: The last day for bills to be introduced occurs at the end of February.
March: Spring Recess occurs at the end of the month. March 17 – March 28,
2016.
May: The beginning of this month marks the last day for policy committees to
hear and report to fiscal committees regarding fiscal bills being introduced.
Policy committees must also report non-fiscal bills by the middle of the month.
Policy committees are given their last day to meet before convening in June
near the end of this month, and report Floor bills for their house.
June: Floor session conducted in the beginning of the month, the last day for
bills to be passed out of the house of origin occurs, and the committee
meetings resume. All budgets must be passed by middle of month.
July: The last day for policy committees to meet and report bills occurs during
the month before Summer Recess begins. July 1 – August 1, 2016.
August: Legislature reconvenes from Summer Recess. The last day for fiscal
committees to report bills to the floor occurs at the end of the month. Floor
session begins at the end of the month as well.
September: The last day to amend bills on the Floor occurs at the beginning of
the month, with the last day for each house to pass bills occurring in the middle
of the month. Interim Study Recess begins shortly after. Additionally,
September 30th is the last day for Governor to sign or veto bills passed by the
Legislature before September 1 and are in the Governor's possession on or after
September 1.
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: CONSIDER ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP WITH THE COACHELLA VALLEY
ECONOMIC PARTNERSHIP
RECOMMENDATION
Consider membership with the Coachella Valley Economic Partnership.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
On July 8, 2016, the City of La Quinta received an invitation from the Coachella
Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP) encouraging the City to re-join CVEP.
The City was last a member during 2014/15; the City Council elected to discontinue
their membership and instead pursue economic development organizations that
focus on the east Coachella Valley.
Council requested to revisit the CVEP membership since electing not to re-join at
the October 2016 Council meeting.
FISCAL IMPACT
The annual investment would be $10,000. Funds are available in the Contingency – Art
Event, account 101-3001-60512. If approved a budget adjustment would be processed to
reallocate funds as follows:
Decrease Expenditure
Contingency-Art Event 101-3001-60512 $10,000
Increase Expenditure
Membership Dues 101-1002-60351 $10,000
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
CVEP is comprised of private and public sector representatives who collaborate on
workforce and business development. CVEP is devoted to attracting, retaining, and
expanding business while developing a high-skilled workforce to build the economy and
quality of life in the Valley. Seven of the nine Valley cities are CVEP members and the City
was a member until June 2015. The Council elected not to continue with CVEP and
explore associations that focused on the east Coachella Valley instead. In 2015, the City
joined the East Valley Coalition (EVC) for two years at a cost of $10,000 per year.
Attachment 1 presents correspondence from Joe Wallace, CEO and Chief Innovation
Officer requesting that the City re-join CVEP. The minimum annual investment is $10,000
BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 3
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and this affords the opportunity for a City representative to join the CVEP Board of
Directors. Staff is seeking direction regarding CVEP membership.
ALTERNATIVES
Elect not to re-join CVEP or to rejoin and seek greater involvement and City investment in
CVEP activities.
Prepared by: Gilbert Villalpando, Management Specialist
Approved by: Frank J. Spevacek, City Manager
Attachment: 1. July 8, 2016 Letter from Joe Wallace to Mayor Evans
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STUDY SESSION ITEM NO. 1
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: DISCUSS SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTAL PROGRAM 2016 PROGRESS AND
2017 GOALS
RECOMMENDATION
Discuss Short-Term Vacation Rental Program 2016 Progress and 2017 Goals.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•In October 2012, the City established its Short-Term Vacation Rental Program (STVRP)
to monitor rentals and reduce neighborhood impacts, and to capture transient
occupancy tax (TOT) from private residential rentals.
•Since inception, the program has grown from 102 residential units to 919, generating
$1.84 million in TOT revenue for 2016.
•In March 2015 the STVRP transitioned from the Finance Department to The Hub and
in March 2016 STVRP oversight was assigned to the Administration Division of Design
and Development.
FISCAL IMPACT – None.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The STVRP was established in October 2012 to register rentals to ensure their occupancy did
not impact neighborhoods and to capture transient occupancy tax (TOT) from private
residential rentals. Additional concerts and other events held in the eastern Coachella
Valley have increased, and La Quinta residential property owners have elected to capitalize
on short-term rentals.
This program also allowed the City to obtain transient occupancy tax (TOT) revenue from
these rentals. Since incorporation in 1982, the City’s TOT ordinance requires all properties
rented for 30 days or less to collect and remit TOT revenue to the City. The current TOT rate
is 10%. Since 2013, the average annual increase of TOT revenue for STVRP has been 25%
(Attachment 1). The Coachella Valley as a whole has seen growth in short term rentals.
(Attachment 2 and 3)
The STVRP was transitioned to The Hub in March 2015 to enhance the one-stop-shop
customer experience. During the transition period, staff identified a number of streamlining
opportunities, which resulted in the formation of a project action team (PAT) to design and
implement these findings.
STUDY SESSION ITEM NO. 2
137
The goals of the PAT were to improve:
• Customer service
• Internal and external communication
• Accessibility
• Program compliance
The PAT established the following goals for 2017:
COMPLETION DATE
• Outline online TOT reporting needs February, 2017
• Implement community outreach workshop’s February, 2017
• Develop strategic plan March, 2017
• Expand communication platforms March, 2017
• Municipal Code update June, 2017
• Contract online TOT reporting customization August, 2017
• Prepare Metrics January, 2018
• Service enhancements Ongoing
• Improve program compliance Ongoing
Staff will be presenting a program summary for Council consideration, and desires the
following Council input:
• Is there a desire to sustain or grow the program?
• Is there a desire to fulfill the need for dedicated staff resources?
• What level of effort should be applied to pursue non-compliant rentals and TOT?
ALTERNATIVES – None
Prepared by: Julie Mignogna, Management Specialist
Approved by: Angelica Zarco, The Hub Manager
Attachments: 1. Program Trends
2. Valley-wide comparison
3. Resource comparison
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PROGRAM TRENDS
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ATTACHMENT 1
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CITY STVRP
REGISTERED
PROPERTIES
15/16
REVENUE
PALM SPRINGS Yes 1936 $6,118,604
LA QUINTA Yes 977 $1,444,370
PALM DESERT Yes* 1208 $1,426, 900
INDIO Yes 400 $663,000
RANCHO MIRAGE Yes 400 $400,000
CATHEDRAL CITY Yes 250 $300,000
INDIAN WELLS Yes** 150 $151,952
* Program is on a Moratorium until January 2018
** Program is on a Moratorium and will be phased out in 2018
ATTACHMENT 2
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RESOURCE COMPARISON
CITY
REGISTERED
PROPERTIES
2016
TOT
ALLOCATED STAFF
RESOURCES
STAFF
RESOURCE
COST
CONTRACT
RESOURCES
TOTAL
COST
TOT
TAX
RATE
PALM
SPRINGS 1936 $6.3 M
2 - Compliance Officials
(Directors)
3 - Code Enforcement Officers
1 - Building Inspector
1 - Coordinator
2 - Assistants
Police Back-up
$1,175,000 $180,000 $1,355,000 11.5%
LA QUINTA 977 $1.84 M
½ - Registration and TOT
½ - Management Specialist
Code and Police Support
$109,382 $48,200 $157,582 10%
PALM
DESERT 1208 $1.27 M
1 - STVRP Registration and TOT
1 - STVRP Business
License/Renewals
1 - Code Enforcement
Officer
$429,000 $26,600 $455,600 9%*
*TOT Tax Rate has increased to 11% as of January 1, 2017
ATTACHMENT 3
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: March 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: DISCUSS NORTH LA QUINTA LANDSCAPE RENOVATION
RECOMMENDATION
Discuss North La Quinta landscape renovation and provide direction.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•North La Quinta landscape renovation was voted a top priority project at the
Special City Council Community Workshop on Measure G Investment Priorities held
on January 25, 2017.
•Staff engaged the City’s on-call Landscape Architect, Hermann Design Group to
craft the proposed three year $10 million plan to address this priority.
•The draft fiscal year 2017/18 Capital Improvement Program (CIP) will reflect the
results of this study session.
FISCAL IMPACT
Measure G is proposed to fund the $10 million project beginning with the 2017/18 CIP
budget. The break down is:
Year 1:$3.3 Million La Quinta Vistas, La Quinta Highlands, Acacia
Year 2:$2.8 Million Rancho Ocotillo, Quinterra, Cactus Flower
Year 3:$3.9 Million Desert Pride, Sierra Del Rey, Marbella, Topaz
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
In 2013, the City assumed ownership of the roadway parkways in north La Quinta. On
April 1, 2015, the Governor issued a statewide water conservation mandate, which
requires significant reductions in potable water use for turfed parkway irrigation.
Recognizing that the City must reduce water use and there is a need to refurbish these
parkways, Council approved parkway turf conversion projects in the 2016/17 Capital
Improvement Program that included:
o The first phase of the multi-year North La Quinta Parkway Turf Conversion project
o A commitment to invest $750,000 per year over 7 years, to convert the remaining
turf in the north La Quinta parkways to “desert efficient” landscaping. General
Fund reserves were designated to fund the 7-year program.
STUDY SESSION ITEM NO. 3
145
With the passage of Measure G, the Council requested that staff accelerate the scope of
the North La Quinta Turf Conversion CIP Project and include “refreshing” all landscaping
(not just the turf conversion areas), and address wall aesthetics, lighting and other
associated items; community members also identified these improvements as one of the
top 3 priority projects at the January 2017 Community Workshop.
In response, staff prepared the following proposal that accelerates implementing this
expanded scope project from 7 years to 3 years; Attachment 1 identifies each phase,
which are based on constructability, project size (to facilitate cost effective
constructability), and visual impact.
The proposed scope of work includes:
Removing turf in parkways and slopes of retention basins
Installing “Desert Efficient” landscape in parkways
Installing “Desert Oasis” landscape on retention basin slopes - grass bottoms to
remain
Reducing slopes exceeding 3:1 using Keystone retaining block
Cleaning and painting all walls (except split face)
Cleaning split face walls
Replacing light fixtures at intersections (as required)
Adding new electrical pedestals, conduit, wire and light fixtures at dark
intersections
Removing trees in turf areas (as required)
Removing trees under power lines (as required)
Replacing trees (1 tree for every 3 trees removed).
ALTERNATIVES
Council could direct staff to adjust the scope or schedule of the work.
Prepared by: Ed Wimmer, P.E., Principal Engineer
Approved by: Timothy R. Jonasson, P.E., Design and Development Director/City Engineer
Attachment: 1. Proposed Three Year Plan
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QUINTERRAFY 2018/2019
MARBELLAFY 2019/2020
L.Q. VISTASFY 2017/2018
L.Q. DEL OROFY 2016/2017COMPLETE
ACACIAFY 2017/2018
L.Q. HIGHLANDSFY 2017/2018 RANCHO OCOTILLOFY 2018/2019 CACTUSFLOWERFY 2018/2019
SIERRADEL REYFY 2019/2020 TOPAZFY 2019/2020DESERTPRIDEFY 2019/2020
Fiscal Year 2019/2020Desert PrideSierra Del Rey Topaz Marbella Budget $3,859,103
Fiscal Year 2018/2019Rancho Ocotillo QuinterraCactus Flower Budget $2,788,061
Fiscal Year 2017/2018 AcaciaLa Quinta HighlandsLa Quinta Vistas Budget $3,344,175
Fiscal Year 2016/2017La Quinta Del Oro Complete
Legend A
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ATTACHMENT 1
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City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING: MARCH 7, 2017
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDMENT 2 TO THE OLD TOWN
LA QUINTA SPECIFIC PLAN 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058) REMOVING THE VILLAS AT OLD
TOWN PART B AND FIND THE SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT EXEMPT PURSUANT TO
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT SECTION 15183 PROJECTS CONSISTENT
WITH A COMMUNITY PLAN, GENERAL PLAN OR ZONING
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to approve Amendment 2 to the Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan
2016-0002 (SP 2002-058) removing the Villas at Old Town Part B and find the specific
plan amendment exempt from environmental review pursuant to California
Environmental Quality Act Section 15183 Projects Consistent with a Community Plan,
General Plan or Zoning.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•This amendment to the Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan (Plan Amendment) will
remove the Villas at Old Town mixed-use project once proposed for the City-
owned property between Old Town and the La Quinta Library (Attachment 1).
•Council amended the Plan on November 3, 2015 to include the proposed Villas at
Old Town (Villas) development, but the purchase and sale agreement was
terminated.
•Through this amendment the Plan will cover only the existing Old Town La
Quinta development and remove encumberances to development on the City-
owned properties.
FISCAL IMPACT – None.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
Old Town La Quinta is located in the core of the La Quinta Village (Attachment 2). The
commercial center, which is comprised of multiple two-story buildings, consists of a
variety of retail, office, and restaurant uses in a pedestrian-focused environment.
Several vacant City-owned parcels are located between Old Town and the La Quinta
Civic Center. In 2014, the City entered into a purchase and sale agreement with Marvin
Investments, Inc. to facilitate the development of these properties with mixed-use,
residential and retail/office uses; this proposal was entitled “Villas at Old Town”. The
Plan was amended to add these properties.
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1
149
The proposed Plan Amendment (Attachment 3) is the second amendment to the Plan.
The Plan consists of Part A, Old Town La Quinta, and Part B, Villas at Old Town. The
Plan was drafted so that Part A was independent of Part B. This amendment removes
Part B from the Plan. These properties will then be subject to the existing Village
development standards, and will allow for alternative development proposals.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The Plan Amendment was reviewed under the requirements of the California
Environmental Quality Act (CEQA). The Design and Development Department
determined that this project is exempt from environmental review pursuant to Section
15183 of the California Environmental Quality Act in that the Plan Amendment is
consistent with the General Plan and Zoning.
AGENCY AND PUBLIC REVIEW
Public Agency Review
The Plan Amendment was sent to all applicable City departments and affected public
agencies on August 16, 2016. No comments were received.
SB-18 Native American Tribal Consultation
As per SB-18 (2004) consultation requirements, information regarding the Plan
Amendment was forwarded to those Tribes referenced on the Tribal Consultation List
provided by the Native American Heritage Commission. No Tribe requested information
or consultation.
Planning Commission Review
At its regular meeting of February 14, 2017, the Planning Commission recommended
approval of the Plan Amendment.
ALTERNATIVES
Alternative actions would entail not approving the Plan Amendment, or discussion and
incorporation of any additional amendments deemed appropriate.
Prepared by: Carlos Flores, Associate Planner
Approved by: Gabriel Perez, Planning Manager
Attachments: 1.Project Information
2. Project Area Site Map
3.Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2
150
RESOLUTION 2017 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA
QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A SPECIFIC PLAN
AMENDMENT TO REMOVE THE VILLAS AT OLD TOWN PART
B FROM THE OLD TOWN SPECIFIC PLAN, AND FIND THE
PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE CALIFORNIA
ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
CASE NUMBER: SPECIFIC PLAN 2016-0002
(SP 2002-058, AMENDMENT 2)
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of La Quinta, California did, on the 7th
day of March, 2017, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing, to consider a request by City of
La Quinta for approval of an amendment to the Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan,
generally located on the south side of Calle Tampico, between Avenida Bermudas and
the La Quinta Civic Center, more particularly described as:
APN: 770-124-010, 770-121-007, 770-123-012, 770-124-005, 770-123-011,
770-121-014, 770-121-008, 770-123-001, 770-121-013, 770-121-005, 770-121-010,
770-121-009, 770-121-011, 770-121-012, and 770-121-004
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public hearing
notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on February 24, 2017 as prescribed by the
Municipal Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to all property owners within
500 feet of the site; and,
WHEREAS, per SB-18 consultation requirements, the Design and Development
Department has forwarded information regarding the proposed amended Specific
Plan to those Tribes referenced on the Tribal Consultation List provided by the Native
American Heritage Commission and has received no request for information or
consultation from a Tribe; and,
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all testimony
and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be heard, said City Council
did make the following mandatory findings pursuant to Section 9.240.010 of the La
Quinta Municipal Code to justify recommending to the City Council approval of said
Specific Plan Amendment:
1.Consistency with General Plan
The proposed Specific Plan amendment is consistent with the goals and policies
of the La Quinta General Plan in that the removal of Part B is consistent with
Policy LU-7.4 as adopted mixed-use development standards for the Village
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Resolution No. 2017-
Specific Plan 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058, Amendment 2) – Old Town La Quinta
Adopted: March 7, 2017
Page 2 of 3
Commercial District may be applied to new development projects on city-
owned properties.
2. Public Welfare
Approval of the proposed Specific Plan amendment will not create conditions
materially detrimental to public health, safety and general welfare. The Design
and Development Department has determined that this project is exempt from
environmental review pursuant to Section 15183 of the Guidelines
implementing CEQA California Environmental Quality Act in that the proposed
project can be characterized as consistent with a General Plan and Zoning. The
project is consistent with all applicable general plan and zoning regulations,
occurs on a project site less than five acres in size substantially surrounded by
urban uses, has no value as habitat for endangered, rare, or threatened species,
would not result in any significant effects relating to traffic, noise, air/water
quality, and can be adequately served by all required utilities and public
services.
3. Land Use Compatibility
The proposed Specific Plan amendment incorporates a land use that is
compatible with zoning on adjacent properties. The property removed from the
Specific Plan will continue to be zoned as Village Commercial.
4. Property Suitability
The uses permitted in the Specific Plan amendment are suitable and
appropriate for the subject property in that the properties removed from the
Specific Plan will be subject to City’s Zoning and General Plan.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of La Quinta,
California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings of the
Planning Commission in this case.
SECTION 2. That the above project be determined by the City Council to be exempt
from CEQA pursuant to Section 15183 of the CEQA Guidelines.
SECTION 3. That it does hereby approve Specific Plan 2016-0002, as set forth in
attached “Exhibit A” for the reasons set forth in this Resolution.
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a regular meeting of the City of La
Quinta City Council, held on this the 7th day of March, 2017, by the following vote:
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Specific Plan 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058, Amendment 2) – Old Town La Quinta
Adopted: March 7, 2017
Page 3 of 3
AYES:
NOES:
ABSENT:
ABSTAIN:
________________________________
LINDA EVANS, Mayor
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
_______________________________
SUSAN MAYSELS, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
(CITY SEAL)
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
_______________________________
WILLIAM H. IHRKE, City Attorney
City of La Quinta, California
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan
Specific Plan 2016-0002
(Specific Plan 02-058 - Amendment 2)
EXHIBIT A
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 2
Table of Contents: Old Town La Quinta
1. Introduction & Setting
1.1 Executive Summary
1.2 Purpose & Intent
1.3 Project Location
1.4 Site Characteristics
1.5 Background & History
1.6 General Plan & Zoning
2. Specific Plan
2.1 Project Description
2.2 Development Objectives
2.3 Land Use Plan
2.4 Circulation
2.5 Parking
3. Development Standards
3.1 Overview
3.2 Variations from LQMC
4. Design Guidelines
4.1 Architectural Guidelines
4.2 Landscape Guidelines
5. Plan Administration
5.1 Amendment
5.2 Interpretation
5.3 Enforcement
6. General Plan Consistency
6.1 Overview
6.2 Consistency Analysis
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 3
List of Exhibits
1 Aerial photograph
2 Existing land use
3 Existing zoning
4 Overall site plan of Old Town La Quinta
5 Plaza Landscape Plans
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 4
1. INTRODUCTION & SETTING
1.1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Old Town La Quinta currently consists of five buildings totaling approximately 102,000 square
feet of offices, retail shops, services, restaurants, and event lawn on approximately 6 acres of
property. See Exhibits 1 and 4.
This Specific Plan Amendment will allow for the following:
• Closure of Linden Lane in front of The Grill on Main and La Rue Wine Bar between Main
Street and Avenida La Fonda to create an outdoor plaza for dining, drinking, and live
music.
• Construction of an exterior staircase to access the large second floor restaurant at
78065 Main Street.
• Conversion of existing office space to future residential use.
• Blanket approval for art, music, farmers market, and other events with fewer than one
thousand attendees at a time within Old Town.
• Applicant may seek building department approval for a roof deck for restaurant and
music not to exceed 3,000 square feet.
• Vacant pad at the southeast corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas (previously
entitled for up to a 27,000 square foot building) will be converted into a paved parking
lot.
• Additional square footage in the existing buildings to be used for food related uses (i.e.
restaurants, juice bar, tap room, bakery, etc.). No new buildings are proposed as part
this of the Specific Plan Amendment.
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 5
Exhibit 1: Aerial photograph depicting the site and existing development
1.2 PURPOSE & INTENT
The purpose of this Specific Plan Amendment is to set forth the detailed development principles,
guidelines, and programs to facilitate the redevelopment of the existing Old Town La Quinta
project.
This Specific Plan is intended to meet the requirements for a Specific Plan as set forth in State
law. The State authorizes cities and counties to adopt Specific Plans as an appropriate tool in
implementing their General Plans. Such a plan is to include the detailed regulations, conditions,
programs, and any proposed legislation that is necessary for the systematic implementation of
the General Plan. The Specific Plan provides the linkage between the General Plan, the
general goals and policies of the City, and the detailed implementation of that plan with tools
such as zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and the like. The Government Code
(Section 65451) sets forth the minimum requirements of a Specific Plan and states:
A Specific Plan shall include a text and diagram or diagrams, which specify all of the following in
detail:
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 6
1. The distribution, location, and extent of the uses of land, including open space, within the
area covered by the plan.
2. The proposed distribution, location and extent and intensity of major components of
public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal, energy,
and other essential facilities proposed to be located within the area covered by the plan
and needed to support the land uses described by the plan.
3. Standards and criteria by which development will proceed, and standards for the
conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, where applicable.
4. A program of implementation measures including regulations, programs, public works
projects, and financing measures necessary to carry out paragraphs (1), (2), and (3)."
The Specific Plan shall include a statement of the relationship of the specific plan to the General
Plan. The establishment of specific performance, design, and development standards is set
forth to guide the development of the subject property in such a way as to implement the
General Plan while maintaining some flexibility to respond to changing conditions which may be
a factor in any long term development program. The document also acts to augment the City's
Zoning Ordinance by providing particular design guidelines, a tailored list of allowable,
conditionally allowable, and prohibited uses for the site, and unique development standards.
1.3 PROJECT LOCATION
Old Town La Quinta is located east of Avenida Bermudas, south of Calle Tampico, north of
Avenida La Fonda and west of Desert Club Drive. In addition, it includes two parking lots south
of Calle Tampico east of Desert Club Drive.
Calle Tampico is designated a Primary Arterial according to the City’s General Plan. Property to
the north, across Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive contains an
Embassy Suites Hotel with 145 rooms and 72-unit casitas, the Sandbar restaurant, a Circle K
and a Mexican market and vacant commercial pads. Both of the intersections are fully
signalized. To the west of Old Town are a City-owned paved parking lot, a thrift store, and two
vacant lots. To the south of Old Town, across Avenida La Fonda, is The Crab Pot, vacant lots,
and a liquor store. To the east of Old Town is City-owned vacant land and a Verizon facility.
1.4 SITE CHARACTERISTICS
The site is flat and is developed with streets, buildings, landscaping, sidewalks, and parking lots.
There is one approximately 0.4 acre parcel at the corner of Calle Tampico and Bermudas, which
is a grass and dirt pad. Public streets surround the site.
1.5 BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
The first phase and existing streets in Old Town were built in 2002-2003. The second phase
was completed in 2007. Old Town provides visitors with office space, a bank, restaurants, bars,
retail stores, salons, and services. It is a place for locals, snowbirds, and visitors to the Valley to
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 2 (SP2016-0002 – SP2002-058 Amendment 2) Page 7
shop, stroll and dine. It also provides a location for a farmers market, Art Under the Umbrellas,
Taste of La Quinta, Fall Family Festival, and many other events utilizing the event lawn and
Main Street.
1.6 GENERAL PLAN & ZONING
Implementation of this Specific Plan is intended to carry out the goals and policies contained in
the General Plan of the City of La Quinta in a planned and orderly fashion. The site has a
designation of VC, Village Commercial. The Land Use Map of the 2013 General Plan for the
site is shown in Exhibit 2.
The property is already properly planned and zoned for the uses proposed. Exhibit 3 depicts
the zoning on the site and the surrounding parcels. The City of La Quinta requires a Village Use
Permit or Specific Plan to establish an overall master development plan for property located with
the Village Commercial (VC) zoning classification.
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Exhibit 2: Existing land use
Exhibit 3: Existing zoning
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Exhibit 4: Old Town La Quinta Overall Site Plan
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2. SPECIFIC PLAN
2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
There are a few changes to the physical appearance and land uses of Old Town proposed by
this Specific Plan Amendment. The physical changes to Old Town are proposed as follows:
• The permanent improvement of the parking lot at the corner of Avenida Bermudas and
Calle Tampico into a new paved parking lot with 42 parking spaces, with associated
landscaping, lighting and irrigation. This lot was originally designed to allow for the
construction of a two-story building containing up to 27,000 square feet of retail and
office space, but has been used as a parking lot for the last ten years.
• Closure of Linden Lane, between Main Street and Avenida La Fonda, in front of The Grill
on Main and La Rue Wine Bar. This street closure would allow for the installation of a
pedestrian-oriented plaza to be used for events and for additional dining and bar areas
for the adjacent restaurants. See Exhibit 5 Plaza Plans.
• Addition of an exterior staircase leading to the second floor patio/restaurant space of the
building located at 78065 Main Street. This staircase would allow for direct access to
that restaurant from the plaza to enhance the customer experience. This staircase
would be in addition to the existing two internal building staircases and one elevator
used to access this restaurant space now.
• Cables and lights would be added for both shade and lighting above the plaza area.
Roof decks not to exceed 3,000 square feet each could be added to 78065 Main Street
and 78085 Main Street to incorporate dining and bars.
The changes in use in Old Town are proposed as follows:
• The percentage of restaurant space allowed would be changed from 20,400 square feet
(16% of the 127,500 square feet of existing entitlements) to 34,000 square feet. This
increase is needed to meet market demand and is justified by the addition of both on-site
parking in Old Town and the elimination of one 27,000 square foot building from the
approvals. This 34,000 square feet of restaurants would include conditioned space and
enclosed patios. It would not include beer garden on the plaza or potential roof deck.
• The conversion at some point in the future of some or all of the office space located on
the second floor of Old Town to use as residential units. A maximum of 30 new
condominium units of one to three bedrooms would be created in what are now offices.
These condominiums would range in size from 850 to 2,400 square feet. One reserved
parking space per unit would be delineated or private garages, built over existing parking
places, would be built on site for these condominiums.
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• The creation of the outdoor dining and bar area with fire pits, fountains, and outdoor
music to allow for the adjacent restaurants to serve customers in a festive and inviting
environment. This outdoor venue would not be counted in the restaurant space
limitation because it would only be used seasonally and for special events. A valet
parking area may be created on the Main Street side of the plaza. These valet parking
areas would be completely out of existing vehicular paths of travel, and would not
interrupt traffic. Valet parking will use existing parking spaces but will allow more cars to
park in the same area.
• This amendment will allow an exemption from Temporary Use Permits for events held
on the property which is part of this Specific Plan for arts festivals, farmer’s markets,
music festivals and similar public events with total attendance of less than 1,000 people.
Applicable Alcohol Beverage Control and County Health Permits will still be required.
Police and Fire standards will be observed. City will review special event usage with
applicant annually.
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Exhibit 5: Plaza Plans
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2.2 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE
The objective of this amendment to the Specific Plan is to allow for the continued, but enhanced
enjoyment of Old Town by both tenants and the public. It will allow for more variety of
restaurants, tap rooms, bars and food concessions. It will also give the flexibility to allow people
to live at Old Town at some future date when the market justifies by conversion of office space
to residences. It will further allow for more public events and pedestrian friendly areas for
relaxation away from cars and traffic. Finally it provides for more paved parking for both tenants
and guests.
2.3 LAND USE PLAN
The land use is being changed by eliminating one approved building, building a paved parking
lot, closing off Linden Lane for a pedestrian plaza and conversion of buildings into mixed use
(including residential uses).
2.4 CIRCULATION PLAN
The existing circulation in and around Old Town will not change except for the elimination of the
Linden Lane connection between Avenida La Fonda and Main Street. The elimination of this
two hundred foot section of street will not change the circulation as two-way traffic will continue
on Avenida La Fonda and Main Street with connections to Desert Club Drive and Avenida
Bermudas using either street.
The new parking lot being created at the corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas will
have an entry and exit point into the existing driveway (street in the middle of the site). This
access point is adjacent to and utilizes the existing access to Calle Tampico. In this way this
parking lot can be safely entered and exited during events using the event lawn and even the
parking lot adjacent to the event lawn. This will add flexibility to event planning and parking.
2.5 PARKING
176 parking spaces are provided on-site and another 42 will be added by the construction of the
new parking lot at the corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas. Five spaces will be lost
when the plaza is constructed. Approximately 220 spaces are available off-site for a total of
nearly 440 parking spaces. These off-site spaces are located near to the site (within 300 feet)
on the east side of Desert Club Drive, on Avenida La Fonda and in the two public parking lots
on the west side of Avenida Bermudas. The plan proposes to use the City’s allowed method for
alternative parking standards. The site has been designed to promote pedestrian mobility, as
suggested in the City of La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, by grouping of mixed uses and
using design elements such as ample shading, a central plaza, seating areas and decorative
paving. This design will encourage people from nearby businesses and residences to walk to
the site, thereby reducing the need for on-site parking.
The plan anticipates using a shared parking arrangement as permitted in the City Zoning
Ordinance Section 9.150.070. This statement maintains that parking for non-residential uses
shall be within 300 feet of the uses served by the parking and shall be located in a commercial
district. In addition, the sit-down restaurants will be open during evening hours, when most office
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and retail uses will be closed. A significantly larger number of parking spaces will be available
during the hours for restaurant use.
This method of providing spaces through shared parking will reduce the number of automobiles
on the site. This is important for the design concept of a pedestrian oriented commercial village.
Forty-two new parking spaces will be added to Old Town with the new parking lot. Closing
Linden Lane will eliminate five spaces. These new spaces as well existing parking, adjacent
City owned parking lots and nearby streets will supply adequate parking for events and
everyday use. Parking for residential use will be by one reserved space per residential unit or
private garages to be built at time of conversion to residential. These garages will be built on
existing surface lots owned by Old Town.
3. DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
3.1 OVERVIEW
The uses and development standards shall be generally in accordance with the provisions of
the La Quinta Zoning and General Plan regulations. Should conflict occur between the
regulations and the Plan, the provisions of the Plan and supporting text shall prevail. In
addition to the permitted uses of the Village Commercial zoning temporary outdoor events may
be permitted in accordance with Section 9.100.140 of the Zoning Ordinance.
3.2 VARIATIONS FROM LQMC
No new variances from the LQMC are proposed.
4. DESIGN GUIDELINES
4.1 ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES
No changes to the design guidelines are proposed.
4.2 LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES.
No changes to the landscape guidelines are proposed.
5. PLAN ADMINISTRATION
5.1 AMENDMENT
This chapter describes the procedures for administration and implementation of the Specific
Plan.
The Specific Plan establishes the general intent and comprehensive framework for development
of the community. Minor modifications that are consistent with the purpose and intent of the
current Old Town Specific Plan are allowed at the discretion of the Design and Development
Director or designee. Therefore, it is intended that this Specific Plan provide City Staff with the
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flexibility to interpret the details of project development as well as those items discussed in
general terms in the Specific Plan without requiring a Specific Plan Amendment.
Requests for administrative changes shall be made in writing. If and when it is determined that
changes or adjustments are necessary or appropriate, the Design and Development Director or
designee shall approve these administratively. After approval, any such amendment will be
attached to the Specific Plan as an addendum and may be further changed and amended from
time to time as necessary.
Administrative Changes
Representative examples of such changes may include, but are not limited to:
• The addition of new information to the Specific Plan maps or text that do not
substantially change the effect of any regulation. The new information may include more
detailed, site- specific information.
• Changes to community infrastructure such as drainage systems, roads, water and sewer
systems, etc.
• Modification of architectural or landscape design criteria or details. No changes to the
existing criteria for architecture or landscaping are being proposed.
• The applicant is responsible for coordinating an annual review of special events with the
Design and Development Department. Subject to this review, the Department may
revise or revoke the exemption from Temporary Use Permits.
5.2 INTERPRETATION
Where there is ambiguity between the Specific Plan and the Zoning Code, the Design and
Development Director shall review pertinent information and make a determination as to which
code or standard applies. All determinations shall be in writing and shall be attached to the
Specific Plan as noted under Administrative Changes, earlier in this section.
All uses not specifically listed in this Specific Plan are prohibited. However, the Design and
Development Director may determine that a use not listed is included within or comparable to a
listed use and, once so determined; it shall be treated in the same manner as a listed use.
5.3 ENFORCEMENT
The City of La Quinta shall administer the provisions of the Old Town Specific Plan in
accordance with the State of California Government Code, Subdivision Map Act, the City of La
Quinta General Plan, and the City of La Quinta Municipal Code.
The Specific Plan development procedures, regulations, standards, and specifications shall
supersede the relevant provisions of the City's Municipal Code, as they currently exist or may be
amended in the future.
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All regulations, conditions, and programs contained herein shall be deemed separate distinct
and independent provisions of this Specific Plan. In the event that any such provision is held
invalid or unconstitutional, the validity of all the remaining provisions of this Specific Plan shall
not be affected.
Any development regulation and building requirement not addressed in this Specific Plan shall
be subject to all relevant City of La Quinta ordinances, codes, and regulations.
The enforcement of the provisions of this Specific Plan shall be by the following: The City of La
Quinta Design and Development Department shall enforce the development standards and
design guidelines set forth herein.
Any administrative decision or interpretation of this Specific Plan may be appealed to the
Planning Commission. Likewise, any decision by the Planning Commission may be appealed to
the City Council per 9.200.120 LQMC provisions.
6. GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
6.1 OVERVIEW
It is consistent in style, theme and spirit of surrounding development in the Village. The plan
carefully pays tribute to often stated City planning goals of creating a Village which is pedestrian
friendly and which offers residents both commercial and residential uses in a cohesive historical
context.
6.2 CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS
The uses and development standards shall be generally in accordance with the provisions of
the La Quinta Zoning and General Plan regulations. Should conflict occur between the
regulations and the Plan, the provisions of the Plan and supporting text shall prevail. In
addition to the permitted uses of the Village Commercial zoning temporary outdoor events may
be permitted in accordance with Section 9.100.140 of the Zoning Ordinance.
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NOTE: Specific Plan 2015-0001 (SP 2002-058
Amendment 1) amended the original Specific
Plan to include “Part B: Villas at Old Town” from
Pages 19-50.
Specific Plan 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058
Amendment 2) removed Part B and references to
the Villas at Old Town.
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Project Information
CASE NUMBER: SPECIFIC PLAN 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058 AMENDMENT 2)
APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA
PROPERTY OWNER: CITY OF LA QUINTA
REQUEST: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE AMENDMENT 2 TO THE
OLD TOWN LA QUINTA SPECIFIC PLAN 2016-0002 (SP 2002-
058) REMOVING THE VILLAS AT OLD TOWN PART B AND
FIND THE SPECIFIC PLAN AMENDMENT EXEMPT PURSUANT
TO CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT SECTION
15183 PROJECTS CONSISTENT WITH A COMMUNITY PLAN,
GENERAL PLAN OR ZONING
LOCATION: SOUTH OF CALLE TAMPICO BETWEEN AVENIDA BERMUDAS
AND THE LA QUINTA CIVIC CENTER
GENERAL PLAN
DESIGNATION: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
ZONING
DESIGNATION: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
SURROUNDING
ZONING/LAND USES: NORTH: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
EXISTING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
SOUTH: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
VACANT, UN-ENTITLED LAND
EAST: VILLAGE COMMERCIAL
EXISTING COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT
WEST: MAJOR COMMUNITY FACILITIES
CIVIC CENTER CAMPUS
ATTACHMENT 1
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CALLE ESTADO City of La Quinta
Community Development Department
Old Town & VillasProject Area Site Map
September 22, 2015
®
Planning Division
Old Town La Quinta
Villas at Old Town
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Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 1
(Specific Plan 2015-0001 – SP 2002-058, Amendment 1)
Specific Plan 2016-0002
(Specific Plan 02-058 - Amendment 2)
Prepared by:
Marvin Investments, Inc.
78100 Main Street, Suite 203
La Quinta, CA 92253
ATTACHMENT 3
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October 6, 2015
Adopted by City Council Resolution 2015-____
This Specific Plan Amendment is divided into two parts:
• Part A addresses Old Town La Quinta (page 3)
• Part B addresses the Villas at Old Town (page 19)
Please refer to the following exhibit:
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Part A: Old Town La Quinta
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Table of Contents: Old Town La Quinta
1. Introduction & Setting
1.1 Executive Summary
1.2 Purpose & Intent
1.3 Project Location
1.4 Site Characteristics
1.5 Background & History
1.6 General Plan & Zoning
2. Specific Plan
2.1 Project Description
2.2 Development Objectives
2.3 Land Use Plan
2.4 Circulation
2.5 Parking
3. Development Standards
3.1 Overview
3.2 Variations from LQMC
4. Design Guidelines
4.1 Architectural Guidelines
4.2 Landscape Guidelines
5. Plan Administration
5.1 Amendment
5.2 Interpretation
5.3 Enforcement
6. General Plan Consistency
6.1 Overview
6.2 Consistency Analysis
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List of Exhibits
1 Aerial photograph
2 Existing land use
3 Existing zoning
4 Overall site plan of Old Town La Quinta
5 Plaza Landscape Plans
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1. INTRODUCTION & SETTING
1.1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Old Town La Quinta currently consists of five buildings totaling approximately 102,000 square
feet of offices, retail shops, services, restaurants, and event lawn on approximately 6 acres of
property. See Exhibits 1 and 4.
This Specific Plan Amendment will allow for the following:
• Closure of Linden Lane in front of The Grill on Main and La Rue Wine Bar between Main
Street and Avenida La Fonda to create an outdoor plaza for dining, drinking, and live
music.
• Construction of an exterior staircase to access the large second floor restaurant at
78065 Main Street.
• Conversion of existing office space to future residential use.
• Blanket approval for art, music, farmers market, and other events with fewer than one
thousand attendees at a time within Old Town.
• Applicant may seek building department approval for a roof deck for restaurant and
music not to exceed 3,000 square feet.
• Vacant pad at the southeast corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas (previously
entitled for up to a 27,000 square foot building) will be converted into a paved parking
lot.
• Additional square footage in the existing buildings to be used for food related uses (i.e.
restaurants, juice bar, tap room, bakery, etc.). No new buildings are proposed as part
this of the Specific Plan Amendment.
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Exhibit 1: Aerial photograph depicting the site and existing development
1.2 PURPOSE & INTENT
The purpose of this Specific Plan Amendment is to set forth the detailed development principles,
guidelines, and programs to facilitate the redevelopment of the existing Old Town La Quinta
project.
This Specific Plan is intended to meet the requirements for a Specific Plan as set forth in State
law. The State authorizes cities and counties to adopt Specific Plans as an appropriate tool in
implementing their General Plans. Such a plan is to include the detailed regulations, conditions,
programs, and any proposed legislation that is necessary for the systematic implementation of
the General Plan. The Specific Plan provides the linkage between the General Plan, the
general goals and policies of the City, and the detailed implementation of that plan with tools
such as zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and the like. The Government Code
(Section 65451) sets forth the minimum requirements of a Specific Plan and states:
A Specific Plan shall include a text and diagram or diagrams, which specify all of the following in
detail:
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1. The distribution, location, and extent of the uses of land, including open space, within the
area covered by the plan.
2. The proposed distribution, location and extent and intensity of major components of
public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal, energy,
and other essential facilities proposed to be located within the area covered by the plan
and needed to support the land uses described by the plan.
3. Standards and criteria by which development will proceed, and standards for the
conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, where applicable.
4. A program of implementation measures including regulations, programs, public works
projects, and financing measures necessary to carry out paragraphs (1), (2), and (3)."
The Specific Plan shall include a statement of the relationship of the specific plan to the General
Plan. The establishment of specific performance, design, and development standards is set
forth to guide the development of the subject property in such a way as to implement the
General Plan while maintaining some flexibility to respond to changing conditions which may be
a factor in any long term development program. The document also acts to augment the City's
Zoning Ordinance by providing particular design guidelines, a tailored list of allowable,
conditionally allowable, and prohibited uses for the site, and unique development standards.
1.3 PROJECT LOCATION
Old Town La Quinta is located east of Avenida Bermudas, south of Calle Tampico, north of
Avenida La Fonda and west of Desert Club Drive. In addition, it includes two parking lots south
of Calle Tampico east of Desert Club Drive.
Calle Tampico is designated a Primary Arterial according to the City’s General Plan. Property to
the north, across Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive contains an
Embassy Suites Hotel with 145 rooms and 72-unit casitas, the Sandbar restaurant, a Circle K
and a Mexican market and vacant commercial pads. Both of the intersections are fully
signalized. To the west of Old Town are a City-owned paved parking lot, a thrift store, and two
vacant lots. To the south of Old Town, across Avenida La Fonda, is The Crab Pot, vacant lots,
and a liquor store. To the east of Old Town is City-owned vacant land and a Verizon facility.
1.4 SITE CHARACTERISTICS
The site is flat and is developed with streets, buildings, landscaping, sidewalks, and parking lots.
There is one approximately 0.4 acre parcel at the corner of Calle Tampico and Bermudas, which
is a grass and dirt pad. Public streets surround the site.
1.5 BACKGROUND AND HISTORY
The first phase and existing streets in Old Town were built in 2002-2003. The second phase
was completed in 2007. Old Town provides visitors with office space, a bank, restaurants, bars,
retail stores, salons, and services. It is a place for locals, snowbirds, and visitors to the Valley to
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shop, stroll and dine. It also provides a location for a farmers market, Art Under the Umbrellas,
Taste of La Quinta, Fall Family Festival, and many other events utilizing the event lawn and
Main Street.
1.6 GENERAL PLAN & ZONING
Implementation of this Specific Plan is intended to carry out the goals and policies contained in
the General Plan of the City of La Quinta in a planned and orderly fashion. The site has a
designation of VC, Village Commercial. The Land Use Map of the 2013 General Plan for the
site is shown in Exhibit 2.
The property is already properly planned and zoned for the uses proposed. Exhibit 3 depicts
the zoning on the site and the surrounding parcels. The City of La Quinta requires a Village Use
Permit or Specific Plan to establish an overall master development plan for property located with
the Village Commercial (VC) zoning classification.
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Exhibit 2: Existing land use
Exhibit 3: Existing zoning
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Exhibit 4: Old Town La Quinta Overall Site Plan
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2. SPECIFIC PLAN
2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
There are a few changes to the physical appearance and land uses of Old Town proposed by
this Specific Plan Amendment. The physical changes to Old Town are proposed as follows:
• The permanent improvement of the parking lot at the corner of Avenida Bermudas and
Calle Tampico into a new paved parking lot with 42 parking spaces, with associated
landscaping, lighting and irrigation. This lot was originally designed to allow for the
construction of a two-story building containing up to 27,000 square feet of retail and
office space, but has been used as a parking lot for the last ten years.
• Closure of Linden Lane, between Main Street and Avenida La Fonda, in front of The Grill
on Main and La Rue Wine Bar. This street closure would allow for the installation of a
pedestrian-oriented plaza to be used for events and for additional dining and bar areas
for the adjacent restaurants. See Exhibit 5 Plaza Plans.
• Addition of an exterior staircase leading to the second floor patio/restaurant space of the
building located at 78065 Main Street. This staircase would allow for direct access to
that restaurant from the plaza to enhance the customer experience. This staircase
would be in addition to the existing two internal building staircases and one elevator
used to access this restaurant space now.
• Cables and lights would be added for both shade and lighting above the plaza area.
Roof decks not to exceed 3,000 square feet each could be added to 78065 Main Street
and 78085 Main Street to incorporate dining and bars.
The changes in use in Old Town are proposed as follows:
• The percentage of restaurant space allowed would be changed from 20,400 square feet
(16% of the 127,500 square feet of existing entitlements) to 34,000 square feet. This
increase is needed to meet market demand and is justified by the addition of both on-site
parking in Old Town and the elimination of one 27,000 square foot building from the
approvals. This 34,000 square feet of restaurants would include conditioned space and
enclosed patios. It would not include beer garden on the plaza or potential roof deck.
• The conversion at some point in the future of some or all of the office space located on
the second floor of Old Town to use as residential units. A maximum of 30 new
condominium units of one to three bedrooms would be created in what are now offices.
These condominiums would range in size from 850 to 2,400 square feet. One reserved
parking space per unit would be delineated or private garages, built over existing parking
places, would be built on site for these condominiums.
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• The creation of the outdoor dining and bar area with fire pits, fountains, and outdoor
music to allow for the adjacent restaurants to serve customers in a festive and inviting
environment. This outdoor venue would not be counted in the restaurant space
limitation because it would only be used seasonally and for special events. A valet
parking area may be created on the Main Street side of the plaza. These valet parking
areas would be completely out of existing vehicular paths of travel, and would not
interrupt traffic. Valet parking will use existing parking spaces but will allow more cars to
park in the same area.
• This amendment will allow an exemption from Temporary Use Permits for events held
on the property which is part of this Specific Plan for arts festivals, farmer’s markets,
music festivals and similar public events with total attendance of less than 1,000 people.
Applicable Alcohol Beverage Control and County Health Permits will still be required.
Police and Fire standards will be observed. City will review special event usage with
applicant annually.
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Exhibit 5: Plaza Plans
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2.2 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVE
The objective of this amendment to the Specific Plan is to allow for the continued, but enhanced
enjoyment of Old Town by both tenants and the public. It will allow for more variety of
restaurants, tap rooms, bars and food concessions. It will also give the flexibility to allow people
to live at Old Town at some future date when the market justifies by conversion of office space
to residences. It will further allow for more public events and pedestrian friendly areas for
relaxation away from cars and traffic. Finally it provides for more paved parking for both tenants
and guests.
2.3 LAND USE PLAN
The land use is being changed by eliminating one approved building, building a paved parking
lot, closing off Linden Lane for a pedestrian plaza and conversion of buildings into mixed use
(including residential uses).
2.4 CIRCULATION PLAN
The existing circulation in and around Old Town will not change except for the elimination of the
Linden Lane connection between Avenida La Fonda and Main Street. The elimination of this
two hundred foot section of street will not change the circulation as two-way traffic will continue
on Avenida La Fonda and Main Street with connections to Desert Club Drive and Avenida
Bermudas using either street.
The new parking lot being created at the corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas will
have an entry and exit point into the existing driveway (street in the middle of the site). This
access point is adjacent to and utilizes the existing access to Calle Tampico. In this way this
parking lot can be safely entered and exited during events using the event lawn and even the
parking lot adjacent to the event lawn. This will add flexibility to event planning and parking.
2.5 PARKING
176 parking spaces are provided on-site and another 42 will be added by the construction of the
new parking lot at the corner of Calle Tampico and Avenida Bermudas. Five spaces will be lost
when the plaza is constructed. Approximately 220 spaces are available off-site for a total of
nearly 440 parking spaces. These off-site spaces are located near to the site (within 300 feet)
on the east side of Desert Club Drive, on Avenida La Fonda and in the two public parking lots
on the west side of Avenida Bermudas. The plan proposes to use the City’s allowed method for
alternative parking standards. The site has been designed to promote pedestrian mobility, as
suggested in the City of La Quinta Village Design Guidelines, by grouping of mixed uses and
using design elements such as ample shading, a central plaza, seating areas and decorative
paving. This design will encourage people from nearby businesses and residences to walk to
the site, thereby reducing the need for on-site parking.
The plan anticipates using a shared parking arrangement as permitted in the City Zoning
Ordinance Section 9.150.070. This statement maintains that parking for non-residential uses
shall be within 300 feet of the uses served by the parking and shall be located in a commercial
district. In addition, the sit-down restaurants will be open during evening hours, when most office
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and retail uses will be closed. A significantly larger number of parking spaces will be available
during the hours for restaurant use.
This method of providing spaces through shared parking will reduce the number of automobiles
on the site. This is important for the design concept of a pedestrian oriented commercial village.
Forty-two new parking spaces will be added to Old Town with the new parking lot. Closing
Linden Lane will eliminate five spaces. These new spaces as well existing parking, adjacent
City owned parking lots and nearby streets will supply adequate parking for events and
everyday use. Parking for residential use will be by one reserved space per residential unit or
private garages to be built at time of conversion to residential. These garages will be built on
existing surface lots owned by Old Town.
3. DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
3.1 OVERVIEW
The uses and development standards shall be generally in accordance with the provisions of
the La Quinta Zoning and General Plan regulations. Should conflict occur between the
regulations and the Plan, the provisions of the Plan and supporting text shall prevail. In
addition to the permitted uses of the Village Commercial zoning temporary outdoor events may
be permitted in accordance with Section 9.100.140 of the Zoning Ordinance.
3.2 VARIATIONS FROM LQMC
No new variances from the LQMC are proposed.
4. DESIGN GUIDELINES
4.1 ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES
No changes to the design guidelines are proposed.
4.2 LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES.
No changes to the landscape guidelines are proposed.
5. PLAN ADMINISTRATION
5.1 AMENDMENT
This chapter describes the procedures for administration and implementation of the Specific
Plan.
The Specific Plan establishes the general intent and comprehensive framework for development
of the community. Minor modifications that are consistent with the purpose and intent of the
current Old Town Specific Plan are allowed at the discretion of the Community Design and
Development Director or designee. Therefore, it is intended that this Specific Plan provide City
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Staff with the flexibility to interpret the details of project development as well as those items
discussed in general terms in the Specific Plan without requiring a Specific Plan Amendment.
Requests for administrative changes shall be made in writing. If and when it is determined that
changes or adjustments are necessary or appropriate, the Community Design and Development
Director or designee shall approve these administratively. After approval, any such amendment
will be attached to the Specific Plan as an addendum and may be further changed and
amended from time to time as necessary.
Administrative Changes
Representative examples of such changes may include, but are not limited to:
• The addition of new information to the Specific Plan maps or text that do not
substantially change the effect of any regulation. The new information may include more
detailed, site- specific information.
• Changes to community infrastructure such as drainage systems, roads, water and sewer
systems, etc.
• Modification of architectural or landscape design criteria or details. No changes to the
existing criteria for architecture or landscaping are being proposed.
• The applicant is responsible for coordinating an annual review of special events with the
Community Design and Development Department. Subject to this review, the
Department may revise or revoke the exemption from Temporary Use Permits.
5.2 INTERPRETATION
Where there is ambiguity between the Specific Plan and the Zoning Code, the Director of
Community Design and Development shall review pertinent information and make a
determination as to which code or standard applies. All determinations shall be in writing and
shall be attached to the Specific Plan as noted under Administrative Changes, earlier in this
section.
All uses not specifically listed in this Specific Plan are prohibited. However, the Community
Design and Development Director may determine that a use not listed is included within or
comparable to a listed use and, once so determined; it shall be treated in the same manner as a
listed use.
5.3 ENFORCEMENT
The City of La Quinta shall administer the provisions of the Old Town Specific Plan in
accordance with the State of California Government Code, Subdivision Map Act, the City of La
Quinta General Plan, and the City of La Quinta Municipal Code.
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The Specific Plan development procedures, regulations, standards, and specifications shall
supersede the relevant provisions of the City's Municipal Code, as they currently exist or may be
amended in the future.
All regulations, conditions, and programs contained herein shall be deemed separate distinct
and independent provisions of this Specific Plan. In the event that any such provision is held
invalid or unconstitutional, the validity of all the remaining provisions of this Specific Plan shall
not be affected.
Any development regulation and building requirement not addressed in this Specific Plan shall
be subject to all relevant City of La Quinta ordinances, codes, and regulations.
The enforcement of the provisions of this Specific Plan shall be by the following: The City of La
Quinta Community Design and Development Department shall enforce the development
standards and design guidelines set forth herein.
Any administrative decision or interpretation of this Specific Plan may be appealed to the
Planning Commission. Likewise, any decision by the Planning Commission may be appealed to
the City Council per 9.200.120 LQMC provisions.
6. GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
6.1 OVERVIEW
It is consistent in style, theme and spirit of surrounding development in the Village. The plan
carefully pays tribute to often stated City planning goals of creating a Village which is pedestrian
friendly and which offers residents both commercial and residential uses in a cohesive historical
context.
6.2 CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS
The uses and development standards shall be generally in accordance with the provisions of
the La Quinta Zoning and General Plan regulations. Should conflict occur between the
regulations and the Plan, the provisions of the Plan and supporting text shall prevail. In
addition to the permitted uses of the Village Commercial zoning temporary outdoor events may
be permitted in accordance with Section 9.100.140 of the Zoning Ordinance.
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Part B: Villas at Old Town
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Table of Contents: Villas at Old Town
1. Introduction & Setting
1.1 Executive Summary
1.2 Purpose & Intent
1.3 Project Location
1.4 Site Characteristics
1.5 Background & History
1.6 General Plan & Zoning
1.7 Utility & Service Providers
1.8 Entitlement Process
2. Specific Plan
2.1 Project Description
2.2 Development Objectives
2.3 Land Use Plan
2.4 Circulation
2.5 Open Space & Recreation
2.6 Water, Sewer & Other Utilities
2.7 Grading & Drainage
2.8 Phasing Plan
3. Development Standards
3.1 Overview
3.2 Development Standards
3.3 Permitted Uses
3.4 Parking
4. Design Guidelines
4.1 Architectural Guidelines
4.2 Landscape Guidelines
5. Plan Administration
5.1 Amendment
5.2 Interpretation
5.3 Enforcement
6. General Plan Consistency
6.1 Overview
6.2 Consistency Analysis
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List of Exhibits
1 Aerial photograph
2 Existing land use
3 Existing zoning
4 Overall site plan of Old Town La Quinta and Villas at Old Town
5 Parking
6 Street Cross Sections
7 Sewer Service Plan
8 Water Service Plan
9 Phasing Plan
10 Landscape Concepts
11 Pedestrian crossing areas to Villas from existing Old Town
12 Architectural vocabulary and sections
13 Typical architectural elevations
14 Architectural concept
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1. INTRODUCTION & SETTING
1.1 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
In 2002 the City of La Quinta approved the Old Town Specific Plan. This section of this Specific
Plan Amendment has been written to add approximately three acres of land, which the applicant
is acquiring from the City, to the Old Town Specific Plan. On this additional three acres of land
the applicant seeks to gain approval for the construction of five buildings containing 84
condominiums and 20,000 square feet of commercial space.
1.2 PURPOSE AND INTENT
The purpose of this Specific Plan Amendment is to set forth the detailed development principles,
guidelines, and programs to facilitate the development of another three acres of vacant land
adjacent to Old Town to the east, which is being acquired from the City of La Quinta. It will allow
for approximately 20,000 square feet of retail and offices on the ground floor and 84 residential
condominiums to be built in five buildings in two phases.
This Specific Plan is intended to meet the requirements for a Specific Plan as set forth in State
law. The State authorizes cities and counties to adopt Specific Plans as an appropriate tool in
implementing their General Plans. Such a plan is to include the detailed regulations, conditions,
programs, and any proposed legislation that is necessary for the systematic implementation of
the General Plan. The Specific Plan provides the linkage between the General Plan, the
general goals and policies of the City, and the detailed implementation of that plan with tools
such as zoning ordinances, subdivision ordinances, and the like. The Government Code
(Section 65451) sets forth the minimum requirements of a Specific Plan and states:
A Specific Plan shall include a text and diagram or diagrams, which specify all of the following in
detail:
1. The distribution, location, and extent of the uses of land, including open space, within the
area covered by the plan.
2. The proposed distribution, location and extent and intensity of major components of
public and private transportation, sewage, water, drainage, solid waste disposal, energy,
and other essential facilities proposed to be located within the area covered by the plan
and needed to support the land uses described by the plan.
3. Standards and criteria by which development will proceed, and standards for the
conservation, development, and utilization of natural resources, where applicable.
4. A program of implementation measures including regulations, programs, public works
projects, and financing measures necessary to carry out paragraphs (1), (2), and (3)."
The Specific Plan shall include a statement of the relationship of the specific plan to the General
Plan. The establishment of specific performance, design, and development standards is set
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forth to guide the development of the subject property in such a way as to implement the
General Plan while maintaining some flexibility to respond to changing conditions which may be
a factor in any long term development program. The document also acts to augment the City's
Zoning Ordinance by providing particular design guidelines, a tailored list of allowable,
conditionally allowable, and prohibited uses for the site, and unique development standards.
1.3 PROJECT LOCATION
The Villas is located along Main Street, east of the existing Old Town parking lots on Desert
Club Drive, south of Calle Tampico, north of Avenida La Fonda, and west of the Library and
Wellness Center parking lot. To the north of the proposed Villas across Calle Tampico is a
commercial shopping center and two two-story office buildings. East of the Villas is the Civic
Center Campus. To the south across Avenida La Fonda are vacant lots, some of which are
owned by the City and are graveled. Also, adjoining the Villas site to the south is a Verizon
facility. To the west of the site are the two paved Old Town parking lots.
1.4 SITE CHARACTERISTICS
The site is flat. The public right-of-way and the existing Main Street bisect the site. It has been
graveled by the City of La Quinta and the Arts Foundation and is used for event parking. There
are some palm trees on the site and landscaping along Calle Tampico.
1.5 BACKGROUND & HISTORY
This site was laid out as lots by the developer of the Cove and the Village in the late 1920’s.
The site has been used for event parking for the last three years on a temporary basis under an
agreement between the City and the La Quinta Arts Foundation.
1.6 GENERAL PLAN AND ZONING
The property is delineated by the City's General Plan as Village Commercial (VC) and is zoned
Village Commercial (VC). This zoning designation permits the development of commercial
retail, restaurant and office uses subject to the approval of a Village Use Permit or Specific Plan.
Calle Tampico is designated a Primary Arterial according to the City’s General Plan.
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Exhibit 1: Aerial photograph
1.7 UTILITY AND SERVICE PROVIDERS
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) services the site with existing water mains and sewers
in the existing City streets and right-of-way. Electricity is provided underground by existing IID
Facilities in the right-of-way. The Gas Company provides natural gas. Burrtec provides
garbage and recycling. Police and Fire are provided by Riverside County Sheriff and Fire
respectively.
1.8 ENTITLEMENT PROCESS
Implementation of this Specific Plan is intended to carry out the goals and policies contained in
the General Plan of the City of La Quinta in a planned and orderly fashion. The site has a
designation of VC, Village Commercial. The Land Use Map of the 2013 General Plan for the
site is shown in Exhibit 2.
The property is already properly planned and zoned for the uses proposed. Exhibit 3 depicts
the zoning on the site and the surrounding parcels. The City of La Quinta requires a Village Use
Permit or Specific Plan to establish an overall master development plan for property located with
the Village Core (VC) zoning classification.
In addition to City approvals, the applicant understands that the California Department of Real
Estate will need to approve the condominium parcel map before condos can be sold to the
public. Permits will also be required for fugitive dust mitigation and water quality management.
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Exhibit 2: Existing land use
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Exhibit 3: Existing zoning
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Exhibit 4: Overall Site Plan of Old Town La Quinta and Villas at La Quinta
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SECTION 2 SPECIFIC PLAN
2.1 PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The project consists of The Villas, which will be built in two phases, to be constructed on 3 acres
being acquired from the City.
The Villas at Old Town will consist of approximately 20,000 square feet of retail space in four of
the five buildings lining Main Street. These spaces will range in size from about 800 square feet
to about 2,000 square feet. The uses will be similar to the uses in the existing Old Town and
will include a coffee house, boutiques, offices, and services. It will not contain any full service
sit down restaurants or bars that would be open late at night, to reduce annoyance and conflict
with residents. It may contain convenience food services like a juice bar or bakery. All retail
spaces will front on Main Street and would have their only access on Main Street. No loading
docks or rear entrances would exist. Like the existing Old Town next door all deliveries will be
through the front door of the business. The look and feel and the signage for these businesses
would be very similar to all the existing businesses at Old Town. The parking for these
businesses will be provided by adjacent surface parking lots and on-street parking spaces to be
created in front of the stores in the public right-of-way. Business owners will also be allowed to
use the underground garage.
In addition to the ground floor commercial space, a total of 84 residential condominiums ranging
in size from 1,200 to 2,100 square feet will be built in the five buildings. The project is to be built
in two phases. The first phase will contain two buildings with 13,000 square feet of commercial
space and 40 condominiums. In the buildings containing commercial space, the condominiums
will be built primarily on the second and third floors. In two of the buildings, the condominiums
will be behind the commercial space on the ground floor and each will have private gardens.
The building at the corner of Main Street and Avenida La Fonda will contain only condominiums
and be three floors. Two buildings will contain at-grade garages for residents. The other three
buildings will be built above an underground garage, which will provide the parking for residents.
The underground garage will be built in two phases. Access to the garage will only be from
Avenida La Fonda. This will allow for a continuous sidewalk on the south side of the street from
the Civic Center Campus to the existing Old Town site without interruption from driveways. This
was a stated goal of connectivity by the City.
2.2 DEVELOPMENT OBJECTIVES
It is the objective of this development to link the existing Civic Center Campus to the existing
Old Town commercial development along Main Street. This project will continue the
commercial nature of Main Street with shops and services, which are used by local residents. It
will bring more critical mass of shopping and services to the Village. Furthermore, it will bring
84 new residences to the Village. This development emphasizes pedestrian and bicycle
activities and connectivity. It will allow for a shaded and misted walk to and from the Civic
Center buildings (City Hall, Library, Wellness Center). In summary it is the objective of this
development to link the Civic Center Campus to the rest of the Village using a transitional
architecture.
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2.3 LAND USE PLAN
The new Villas project will incorporate three story buildings, with lofts and roof decks, which are
compatible with other buildings and uses in the Village. The buildings have been designed
using multiple heights and surfaces to blend with the existing architecture of both private and
public buildings in the surrounding area. The land use plan observes the pedestrian nature of
the Village, while providing adequate density to allow for economically viable development on
this key infill parcel of the City’s Village area. It is consistent in style, theme and spirit of
surrounding development in the Village. The plan carefully pays tribute to often stated City
planning goals of creating a Village which is pedestrian friendly and which offers residents both
commercial and residential uses in a cohesive historical context
2.4 CIRCULATION PLAN
The Plan will utilize the adjacent street system in a manner consistent with the City of La Quinta
General Plan’s Circulation Plan. The property is located on the south side of Calle Tampico,
designated by the City's General Plan as a Primary Arterial requiring a half-street width of fifty
(50) feet. Calle Tampico is also designated a Primary Image Corridor in the City’s General Plan
(See Exhibit 6). The landscape design along the project frontage shall be complimentary to the
landscaping in the area.
The existing Main Street east of Desert Club Drive and Avenida La Fonda, which shall not be
altered and shall remain public streets, will service the new Villas. The sole access to the large
underground garage will be on Avenida La Fonda, which will allow the majority of residents and
shop owners utilizing this garage will not need to travel on Main Street. By having no curb cuts
for access to the garage or the buildings on the south side of Main Street, the important element
of creating a pedestrian friendly connection between the Civic Center Campus and the existing
Old Town will be achieved. On the north side of Main Street only one new access onto Main
Street will be provided in an effort to make Main Street a very pedestrian friendly area. Given
the direct connection of Avenida La Fonda to both Washington Street and Desert Club Drive
there will be very limited need for vehicles to use Main Street.
The plan has been discussed with the City Engineering Department and the access points do
not conflict with city policies or regulations.
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Exhibit 6: Street Cross Sections
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2.5 OPEN SPACE AND RECREATION
Given the urban nature of this project, there is not a large amount of open space. The “open
space” provided to the public is all along Main Street. This consists of planters, shade trees,
benches and arcades for both strolling and sitting. There will be a central courtyard created
between the buildings on the south side of Main Street, which will contain a pool, spa, putting
green, barbeque area, picnic area and pool deck for lounging and relaxing. A cabana will be
built to house the fitness equipment. Nearby there is the large Civic Center Park and the City
owned Wellness Center, which has a state-of-the-art fitness facility. Also nearby are a City-
owned swimming pool, tennis courts, and park with fitness facility.
2.6 WATER AND SEWER AND OTHER UTILITIES
Sanitary sewer facilities for La Quinta are provided by CVWD. A 21” VCP sewer main on Calle
Tampico, a 10” VCP main on Desert Club Drive and an 8” VCP sewer main on Avenida La
Fonda. To the extent feasible, the flows from the site will gravity flow to existing mains. No
upsizing of this facility will be required.
CVWD provides water service in the City. Existing water service could be provided via the
existing, 12” main in Desert Club Drive or the 12” main in Avenida La Fonda. There is also an
existing 30” main in Calle Tampico.
The Imperial Irrigation District provides electric facilities in La Quinta. The nearest service will
be in Desert Club Drive portion of the property. The District indicates that the design of the
electrical service will depend on final load calculations for the overall project. Estimated loads
have been calculated and design services have already been requested from IID. The District
will require the installation of underground facilities.
Gas Company provides natural gas services. The nearest service is a 6” main in Calle
Tampico. This line will be used to provide service to the site.
Time Warner Cable provides television cable service. Service is available in the surrounding
developments and will be extended to the site.
Verizon will provide telephone service. The nearest service connection points will be in Desert
Club Drive and Avenida La Fonda.
Burrtec of the Desert provides waste disposal service. Plans for incorporating recycling facilities
will be considered with the development. Community Development Staff shall review facilities
for compliance with all City ordinances.
2.7 GRADING AND DRAINAGE
Grading
The site will be graded in two phases, leaving Phase Two of the site to be used for temporary
event parking until that parcel is developed. As part of Phase One grading the land owned by
the City next to the Wellness Center will be excavated to provide a retention basin for flood
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control. The 10-year flood event will be retained using the retention pond on land owned by the
City next to the Wellness Center.
Erosion Control
The project will comply with the City’s erosion control ordinance. The grading operations shall
include adequate provisions for wind and water erosion control during as well as after grading
operations have ceased. The details of erosion control shall be included in the project's Storm
Water Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP) and PM 10 Plan.
• Pre Grading --The portions of the site to be graded shall be pre-watered to a depth
designated by the soils engineer prior to the onset of grading operations.
• During Grading -- Once grading has commenced, and until grading has been completed,
watering of the site and/or other treatment(s) determined to be appropriate shall be
ongoing.
• Post Grading -- All disturbed areas shall be treated to prevent erosion for the term that
the area will remain undeveloped. Wherever feasible, final landscape and irrigation shall
be installed.
SWPPP/NPDES/PM 10
Since the Coachella Valley experiences periods of moderate to heavy wind conditions, wind-
blown dust and sand is a concern with mass grading operations. Because of health concerns,
the Environmental Protection Agency has instituted a plan in the Valley to curb excess PM 10
(small particle dust). The City also participates in the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System program. The City of La Quinta requires SWPPP, NPDES and PM 10 plans to control
the wind and water born erosion associated with such grading operations. The project will
comply with the City's requirements relative to these programs.
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Exhibit 7: Sewer Service Plan
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Exhibit 8: Water Service Plan
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2.8 PHASING PLAN
The project will be built out in two phases. Phase one will consist of two buildings consisting of
approximately 13,000 square feet of ground floor commercial retail space and 40 residential
condos. Phase 2 will consist of three buildings with 9,000 square feet of commercial and 44
residential condominiums. The underground parking garage will be built in two phases.
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Exhibit 9: Phasing Plan
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SECTION 3 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
3.1 OVERVIEW
The uses and development standards shall be generally in accordance with the provisions of
the La Quinta Zoning and General Plan regulations. Should conflict occur between the
regulations and the Plan, the provisions of the Plan and supporting text shall prevail.
3.2 DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
The development standards for the Village Commercial District are contained in the Zoning
Code Section 9.65.030. This section allows for a flexible design of the project to suit its own
special needs and lets the Specific Plan and the Village Use Permit set the specific
development standards for the project.
This project will comply with the guidelines on setbacks, utility equipment, parking, landscaping,
screening, lighting, and signage.
The majority of the building massing on the buildings complies with the 35 foot height
requirement with the allowance for another 3 feet of height for no occupied architectural
elements. The parapet height of walls facing streets is 37’-6” which is actually below the 38 foot
guideline. It is important to note that extreme care and expense has been taken to variegate the
exterior planes of the buildings to avoid walls rising straight from the ground to the maximum
height. The extensive use of arcades, balconies and step backs in the building contribute to a
large amount of movement in the exterior wall which is both pleasing to the eye and which
interrupts the vertical plane. The actual flat roofs are at 35 feet. The only area that the project
exceeds the Development Standards is in some areas necessary for roof access or artists lofts,
which are substantially setback from the exterior walls of the building. In those areas the total
height reaches 44’-2”, which is 6’-2” greater than the guidelines. It should be emphasized those
areas are not visible from the ground as the surrounding parapets and the substantial setback of
those elements from the perimeter of the buildings does not allow them to be seen.
3.3 PERMITTED USES
The permitted uses in the Village Commercial Zone are covered in section 9.65.20 of the Zoning
Code.
All uses allowed under the code will be permitted at The Villas except restaurants and bars
larger than 60 seats with a full kitchen and grease traps and hoods.
3.4 PARKING
Parking on site is provided by a combination of an underground parking garage, garages at
grade, and off street parking, built in the right-of-way. The total number of parking spaces
provided on site as currently designed is 164. This consists of 151 spaces in an underground
garage accessed by a ramp leading to Avenida La Fonda, 24 private garages at-grade facing
Calle Tampico, and 13 off street parking spaces to be built in the right of way. There do exist
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surface lots immediately west of the site owned by Old Town La Quinta and a large parking lot,
which is being expanded immediately east of the site owned by the City of La Quinta.
The parking required and the parking proposed for this project is addressed in the Carl Walker
Parking Study, which has been submitted to the City as part of this application. However,
during the entitlement process, the City adopted an ordinance that allows for a 50% reduction in
required parking for new development within the Village Commercial zoning district. The
reduced parking calculation applicable to the Villas shall be calculated from the required parking
as listed in Ordinances 505, 361, 325, and 284.
SECTION 4 DESIGN GUIDELINES
4.1 ARCHITECTURAL GUIDELINES
The architecture of the Villas pays tribute to the Santa Barbara and Carmel Spanish styled
architecture of Old Town, while updating that style to a more stylish modern interpretation.
Great effort has been made not to duplicate Old Town, but to make the Villas the perfect blend
of traditional architecture with the modern architecture and vernacular style of the exiting City
Hall buildings, City Library and the Wellness Center. It is similar to the modern interpretation of
Spanish architecture used in the City Library. It is a comfortable style of architecture with lots of
“movement”. This means lots of shade, archways, balconies, and varied wall planes so as one
walks down the sinuous Main Street the building continually evolve and delight the visitor. The
use of both tile and flat roofs and many different roof heights makes the building both interesting
and functional.
The guiding principle of the design effort has been to reward the senses of the pedestrian. The
scale, pace, details and landscaping will create an environment where one is sheltered from the
harsh influences of most commercial centers, while providing very inviting residences to live in
harmony with their commercial neighbors below or beside them. The goal is to create the mix of
excitement and comfort that were once common on Main Streets across America, but which
were forgotten in the latter half of the 20th Century.
The most distinctive features of Main Street in the Villas section are the scale and spatial
definition of the street. These are accomplished through several mutually reinforcing elements:
1) The sinuous, gently curving design which was historically done in the Village; 2) Parallel
parking provides an edge to the street that offers protection to the pedestrian; 3) The regular
pattern of street trees creates a rhythm and their height creates an implied “vehicle corridor”; 4)
The sidewalks are gracious allowing two couples to pass one another; 5) The buildings come
right up to the sidewalk, and their parapet heights (min of 16’) reinforce the vertical definition of
the street space; 6) Cornices at the top of parapets create an edge where the building meets the
sky; 7) Arcades, awnings, and trellises provide shade in the summer and create an intimate
scale adjacent to the stores and condos.
The attention to detail, street trees, and the combination of three story buildings with second
and third floor balconies create an old downtown mood.
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The automobile, delivery trucks and emergency vehicles will all be accommodated within the
project, but the scale of the street will be pedestrian.
The principles that guide the architectural design of the Villas section of the project derive from
several sources, which have been harmoniously blended. One source is California Mission
Revival; the second is the architecture of the La Quinta Hotel with the more modern style of the
La Quinta Civic Center buildings including the Library and City Hall. They also relate to the
more modern style of the shopping center across Tampico. California Mission Revival
architecture – also referred to as “Santa Barbara” or “Monterey” architecture – is defined by
aspects such as relationship of wall to window (windows as openings in walls) and the surface
treatments of stone, tile and plaster that embellish the parapet walls. Building forms are often
articulated because of sloped roofs, residential character, and the frequent stand-alone
placement.
Locally, the original buildings at the La Quinta Hotel offer many examples of detailing, proportion
and scale that will be emulated while being updated to include elements of the last century and
this century. The building forms, where possible, shall exhibit some stepping both in plan and
elevation, including the extensive use of covered pedestrian areas and patios.
Details and Materials
Plaster
At the ground floor, the plaster should be a three-coat Portland cement system on wood frame
or a two-coat system on CMU. The finish generally should be a smooth – “mission” finish with
gentle rounded corners and edges. However, details such as cornices, windowsills, belt
cornices and opening surrounds shall be crisp.
Wood
Exposed “wood”, which should be used sparingly for maximum effect. Posts of ground floor
arcades should be roughly square in section, with a minimum dimension of nominal 8”.
Chamfers and routed details are encouraged. Posts at the second floor should have a minimum
dimension of nominal 6”. Beams should be close to square in section with a width: depth ratio
approximately 6” x 8” or 8” x 12”. This will limit the spans to approximately 12’ – 14’. Corbels
with a width:depth ratio of 1:1 or less is encouraged. Exposed rafter tails should have a width:
depth ratio of 3” x 4”, 4” x 6” or 6” x 8” and in no case more than 1:2. Decorative metal should be
no less than 3/16” in thickness and 2 1/2" in width, but proportional to which the beam/post
connects. Decorative ends are encouraged, but not required.
Windows
The general principle of fenestration is that windows are holes in walls. Windows are not part of
a storefront or window-wall system that dominates the surface of walls as is common in “strip-
center” buildings. Rather they are openings within the wall; the amount of wall surface is
216
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 41
important to convey a sense of substance and permanence in the architecture. Store windows
will be set in walls in a regular pattern, with the stores being 20’ to 30’ in width.
Windows at the second and third floors generally should be more vertical than horizontal (e.g. 3’
x 5’), which should be operable. The sill should be low enough to allow a person seated at a
desk to view the street below – approximately 24” – 30”. The head should be generally higher
than 80” - approximately 84” – 90.” The window should recess from the face of the wall, and
should have a projecting sill on the exterior.
Doors
Wherever possible, use wood “French” or decorative entry doors. These doors may be set in
aluminum storefront frames.
The doors into mechanical and utility rooms that are visible to the pedestrian traffic should be
metal doors and painted in accent color.
Roof
Tile roofs will be used as indicated to reinforce the stylistic character and lend a hand-wrought
texture to the streetscape. Only at important corners and balconies will tile be used on the third
floor. Instead most of the buildings will be parapeted. This allows roof-mounted equipment to
be hidden, and is a more urban type building.
Tile should be clay tiles laid with variation in courses to create hand-wrought texture.
Fencing and Walls
Generally walls will be plaster over wood frame. The wall will appear substantial in depth, and
the windows will interrupt the wall.
During construction, temporary chain link fence with windscreen will be used.
Site Lighting
All lighting shall be designed and located so as to confine direct light within the project
boundaries (including landscape buffer areas located along the street frontages). The lighting
fixtures shall be in character with the village like atmosphere of the architecture.
General:
• All lighting will comply with the City's lighting ordinance.
• Lighting for parking lot lighting shall be low level but provide enough visibility for safety.
• Lighting levels shall be an average of one-foot candle with a ratio of average light to
minimum light of three to one (3:1).
4.2 LANDSCAPE GUIDELINES
217
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 42
The landscape design will complement the Spanish-Mediterranean theme of the Village at La
Quinta and the existing Old Town. Plant material choices will be attractive and suitable to the
desert climate.
The selection of shrubs will be based upon moderate to low water use and ease of
maintenance. Desert shrubs such as Texas Ranger hybrids, Cassias, Yuccas, and
Bougainvillea will interplay with rugged sub-tropical shrubs, including Bird of Paradise, Aloe,
Agave, Gardenia, Carissa, and Boxwood. Maintenance specifications will direct pruning
techniques towards a natural, non-sheared appearance.
Accent color will be provided, where appropriate, through the use of vines such as
Bougainvillea, Pink Powder Puff, and Trumpet Vines. Perennial ground cover planting will be
utilized where additional color is necessary to enhance project focal points and entries. The
landscape material will be designed such that plants with similar water requirements are
grouped together. Detailed landscape plans and renderings have been provided.
Washingtonian Robusta planted in a formal pattern that enhances the pedestrian areas and
architectural style of the buildings will line the main internal street. Tree heights will be the
same as the perimeter streets and planter areas will be created to provide additional planting
including the use of accent vines on trellis structures. (See Exhibit 10)
Irrigation Systems
All irrigation systems (with the exception of drip systems) shall be designed with head-to-head
100% double coverage at a minimum time setting of one minute, and be capable of providing
multiple repeat and start times. Drip systems will be utilized as much as possible and water will
be applied directly to plant roots. All irrigation heads adjacent to walks, drives, and curbs will be
of the pop-up type.
All irrigation systems will be automatically timed to reduce day-to-day operational requirements.
The location of controller boxes, valves and other above ground equipment will be incorporated
into the overall landscape design and screened from public view.
Landscape Palette
Type Scientific Name Common Name Size
Palms
Washingtonia robusta Mexican Fan Palm 15”-20” BTH
Chamaerops humilis Mediterranean Fan Palm 24” Box
Cycas revoluta Sago Palm 24” box
Trees
Prosopsis chilensis Chilean Mesquite 24” Box
Acacia farnesiana Sweet Acacia 24” Box
Rhus Lancea African Sumac 24” Box
Cercidium praecox Sonoran Palo Verde 24” Box
Schinus molle California Pepper 24” Box
218
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 43
Type Scientific Name Common Name Size
Accents
Agave species Agave species 5 Gallon
Yucca species Yucca species 5 Gallon
Aloe species Aloe species 5 Gallon
Dasylerion wheeleri Desert Spoon 5 Gallon
Strelitzia nicolai Giant Bird of Paradise 5 gallon
Strelitzia reginae Bird of Paradise 5 Gallon
Shrubs
Bougainvillea “Oo La la” Bougainvillea 5 Gallon
Bougainvillea “Rosenka” Bougainvillea 5 Gallon
Carissa g. prostrata Natal Plum 5 Gallon
Cassia nemophila Bushy senna 5 Gallon
Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Hibiscus 5 Gallon
Leucophyllum species Texas Ranger 5 Gallon
Nandina domestica Heavenly bamboo 5 Gallon
Nerium oleander ‘Petite” Dwarf Oleander 5 Gallon
Pittosporum t. species Mock orange species 5 Gallon
Raphiolepis indica Indian Hawthorne 5 Gallon
Salvia greggii Red sage 5 Gallon
Thevitia peruviana Yellow oleander 5 Gallon
Xylosma congestum Xylosma 5 Gallon
Vines and
Groundcover
Bougainvillea “Barbara
Karst”
Bougainvillea 15 Gallon
Calliandra Inaequilatera Pink Powder Puff 15 Gallon
Tecoma capensis Cape Honeysuckle 5 Gallon
Lantan montevidensis Trailing Lantana 5 Gallon
Trachelospermum
jasminoides
Star Jasmine 5 Gallon
Desert Dust 2” Depth
Cobble ‘Del Rio” 3’-6” dia.
Landscape Maintenance
The landscape shall be under a single maintenance contract managed by the center.
219
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 44
Exhibit 10: Landscape Concepts
220
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 45
Exhibit 11: Pedestrian Crossing areas to Villas from Existing Old Town
Exhibit 12: Architectural vocabulary and sections
221
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 46
Exhibit 13: Typical Architectural Elevations
222
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 47
Exhibit 14: Architectural Concept
223
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 48
SECTION 5 PLAN ADMINISTRATION
5.1 AMENDMENT
This chapter describes the procedures for administration and implementation of the Specific
Plan.
The Specific Plan establishes the general intent and comprehensive framework for development
of the community. However, prior to construction, various implementing approvals with greater
design detail are required, as noted below. Minor modifications that are consistent with the
purpose and intent of the current, Old Town Specific Plan are allowed at the discretion of the
Community Development Director or designee. Therefore, it is intended that this Specific Plan
provide City Staff with the flexibility to interpret the details of project development as well as
those items discussed in general terms in the Specific Plan without requiring a Specific Plan
Amendment.
Requests for administrative changes shall be made in writing. If and when it is determined that
changes or adjustments are necessary or appropriate, the Community Development Director or
designee shall approve these administratively. After approval, any such amendment will be
attached to the Specific Plan as an addendum and may be further changed and amended from
time to time as necessary.
Administrative Changes
Representative examples of such changes may include, but are not limited to:
• The addition of new information to the Specific Plan maps or text that do not
substantially change the effect of any regulation. The new information may include more
detailed, site- specific information.
• Adjustment of Planning Area boundaries identified in this Specific Plan.
• Changes to community infrastructure such as drainage systems, roads, water and sewer
systems, etc.
• Modification of architectural or landscape design criteria or details. - All uses not
specifically listed in this Specific Plan are prohibited. However, the Community
Development Director may determine that a use not listed is included within or
comparable to a listed use and, once so determined; it shall be treated in the same
manner as a listed use.
5.2 INTERPRETATION
Where there is ambiguity between the Specific Plan and the Zoning Code, the Director of
Community Development shall review pertinent information and make a determination as to
which code or standard applies. All determinations shall be in writing and shall be attached to
the Specific Plan as noted under Administrative Changes, earlier in this section
224
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 49
5.3 ENFORCEMENT
The City of La Quinta shall administer the provisions of the Old Town Specific Plan in
accordance with the State of California Government Code, Subdivision Map Act, the City of La
Quinta General Plan, and the City of La Quinta Municipal Code.
The Specific Plan development procedures, regulations, standards, and specifications shall
supersede the relevant provisions of the City's Municipal Code, as they currently exist or may be
amended in the future.
All regulations, conditions, and programs contained herein shall be deemed separate distinct
and independent provisions of this Specific Plan. In the event that any such provision is held
invalid or unconstitutional, the validity of all the remaining provisions of this Specific Plan shall
not be affected.
Any development regulation and building requirement not addressed in this Specific Plan shall
be subject to all relevant City of La Quinta ordinances, codes, and regulations.
The enforcement of the provisions of this Specific Plan shall be by the following: City of La
Quinta Community Development Department shall enforce the development standards and
design guidelines set forth herein.
Any administrative decision or interpretation of this Specific Plan may be appealed to the
Planning Commission. Likewise, any decision by the Planning Commission may be appealed to
the City Council per 9.200.120 LQMC provisions.
SECTION 6 GENERAL PLAN CONSISTENCY
6.1 OVERVIEW
The General Plan of the City of La Quinta includes Goals, Policies and Programs that were
deemed by the City necessary to properly implement the plan. Following is an evaluation of the
key policies and programs (in Italics) that affect the development of the subject property and
project compliance.
6.2 CONSISTENCY ANALYSIS.
Village Commercial
“The Village Commercial designation applies specifically to the traditional commercial core of
the city, and allows specialty retail – such as boutiques and art galleries – as well as
restaurants, professional offices and services, and hotels. Apartments, condominiums, and live-
work space is also appropriate in this designation. As established in Policy LU-7.1, mixed use
development is allowed in this designation. Mixed use projects can include vertical or horizontal
combinations of land uses that are integrated through pedestrian connections and common
areas; or can be residential units added to existing commercial development.”
225
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 50
• The proposed Villas at Old Town are the essence of this land use designation.
Designed around Main Street, Old Town and the Villas will provide a shopping dining,
work venues as well as residences for La Quinta.
“In areas where Specific Plans are required, adjacent property owners shall be encouraged to
work together to create a single Specific Plan which incorporates all properties within a block or
neighborhood.”
• Old Town La Quinta is a Specific Plan for approximately six acres comprising the
existing Old Town, with this amendment; another new three-acre Villas at Old Town will
be added. Although owned by three different entities they share common purpose and
leadership through Marvin Investments, Inc and Wells L. Marvin.
“The City will encourage an integration of a wide range of support services at employment
centers, including child care, occupational health, fitness facilities and convenience retail
shops.”
“Strip commercial development will be discouraged. The Development Code shall establish and
maintain minimum lot depth standards in all commercial zones.”
• The Villas will encourage a mixture of uses, food, office, retail and residences allowing
downtown employees and residents to reduce vehicle trips and combine trips.
• The three story buildings are much lower than the four stories of the Embassy suites,
which is over ten feet higher than the highest point on any building in the Villas. The
scale and uses of Villas are a valuable addition to the fabric of the Village.
Circulation Element
The circulation uses existing streets and is in compliance with latest (2013) General Plan
Open Space Element
Old Town La Quinta and the Villas are located in a developed urban area of the City and do not
impact existing or proposed open space areas.
Parks and Recreation Element
In addition to the event lawn which acts as the central square of the village and host the City
tree lighting, Art under the Umbrellas, Taste of La Quinta to name a few. The Villas will offer its
residents and tenants access to a hot tub, pool, putting green, and fitness center.
Natural Resources Element
• Old Town La Quinta and The Villas are mixed-use developments designed to reduce
vehicle trips, and also vehicle miles, generated by combining work, housing and services
in close proximity. Its location in the downtown should be considered infill development
and will make use of existing street patterns and transit services.
• The development will comply with the City’s Fugitive Dust Control Policies by submitting
a PM-10 Plan for approval prior to the issuance of a grading permit.
226
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 51
• The unique design of parking in close proximity to uses maximizes pedestrian
opportunities.
• The covered pedestrian arcades provide protection for customers and workers and will
provide solar protection for ground floor spaces. Upper floors will utilize energy efficient
building materials and recessed windows for reducing heat gain and roof mounted solar
panel to generate electricity.
227
Old Town La Quinta Specific Plan Amendment 12 (SP20156-00012 – SP2002-058 Amendment 12) Page 52
NOTE: Specific Plan 2015-0001 (SP 2002-058
Amendment 1) amended the original Specific
Plan to include “Part B: Villas at Old Town” from
Pages 19-50.
Specific Plan 2016-0002 (SP 2002-058
Amendment 2) removed Part B and references to
the Villas at Old Tow n.
228
City of La Quinta
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
DEPARTMENT REPORT
TO: Madam Mayor and Members of the City Council
FROM: Karla Campos, Finance Director
DATE: March 7, 2017
SUBJECT: ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF A PROPOSED REFUNDING BOND ISSUE FOR
DESERT COMMUNITIES REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA OF THE
SUCCESSOR AGENCY TO THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR THE COUNTY
OF RIVERSIDE
The County of Riverside Executive Office issued a letter dated February 17, 2017 to the
City of La Quinta outlining a plan to refinance bond debt on behalf of the Successor
Agency to the Redevelopment Agency for the County of Riverside (the “Agency”) in
fiscal year 2016-17.
The Agency is expecting to issue a series of refunding bonds (the “Bonds”) secured by
the Agency’s tax increment revenues from the Desert Communities Redevelopment
Project Area (which includes portions of the City of La Quinta).
The Bonds would lower the total debt service payments without increasing the term of
the Bonds. Lower debt service payments would result in increased pass-through
property tax payments to the County of Riverside, School Districts, Special Districts and
the City of La Quinta. The Bonds will not be issued unless new debt service is lower
than the debt service on the bonds to be refunded.
The City may formally acknowledge and approve the refinancing, however, after April
3, 2017 the refinancing will be automatically deemed approved unless otherwise
consented/objected to by the City via formal action.
DEPARTMENT REPORT ITEM NO. 7
229
230
HAND OUTS
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING
MARCH 7, 2017
Monthly Overview of Legislative Calendar for 2017
Below is an overview that summarizes major legislative events and key dates that
occur month to month, and following is the 20176 Legislative Calendar created by the
Office of the Secretary of the Senate.
January: The previous year’s laws go into effect during this month. Legislature
reconvenes to discuss the new year of legislation ahead, and all bill requests
must be submitted before the end of the month. Budgets must be submitted by
the Governor during the beginning portion of the month.
February: The last day for bills to be introduced occurs at the end of February.
March: Spring Recess occurs at the end of the month. April 6 – April 17,
2017March 17 – March 28, 2016.
May: The beginning of this month marks the last day for policy committees to
hear and report to fiscal committees regarding fiscal bills being introduced.
Policy committees must also report non-fiscal bills by the middle of the month.
Policy committees are given their last day to meet before convening in June
near the end of this month, and report Floor bills for their house.
June: Floor session conducted in the beginning of the month, the last day for
bills to be passed out of the house of origin occurs, and the committee
meetings resume. All budgets must be passed by middle of month.
July: The last day for policy committees to meet and report bills occurs during
the month before Summer Recess begins. July 21 – August 201, 20176.
August: Legislature reconvenes from Summer Recess. The last day for fiscal
committees to report bills to the floor occurs at the end of the month. Floor
session begins at the end of the month as well.
September: The last day to amend bills on the Floor occurs at the beginning of
the month, with the last day for each house to pass bills occurring in the middle
of the month. Interim Study Recess begins shortly after. Additionally,
September 30th is the last day for Governor to sign or veto bills passed by the
Legislature before September 1 and are in the Governor's possession on or after
September 1.
HAND-OUT - CITY COUNCIL MEETING – MARCH 7, 2017 - BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 2 – ATTACHMENT 1 – REVISED PAGE
126
POWER POINTS
CITY COUNCIL
MEETING
MARCH 7, 2017
3/8/2017
1
City Council Meeting
Meeting Date
March 7, 2017
City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
B1 – Delivery of Medical Cannabis
3/8/2017
2
Compliance
•Comply w/ ALL local and state laws
•State License
•City Permit and Business License
•City Placard in vehicle during delivery
•Maintain written records
Application
•Insurance and Registration for each vehicle
•Drivers License
•Notice of any prior Cannabis related violations
•City Business License
3/8/2017
3
City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
B3 – Consider Annual Membership with
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership
3/8/2017
4
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership
•City’s Membership ended 2014/15
•Pursed other Economic Development
organization focused on East Coachella Valley
•Invited to re‐join July 2016
3/8/2017
5
City of La Quinta
March 7, 2017
Joe J. Wallace, CEO and Chief Innovation Officer
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership
Financial Update
FY 2015‐16 was about implementing business fundamentals and management
discipline while preserving CVEP’s mission.
Building a Solid Balance Sheet
•Total assets increased 3.3% • Total liabilities decreased 64.5%
•Long‐term debt eliminated • Cash positions comfortable
Predictable and Manageable Operating Performance
•Budget managed in real time
•Revenue > expenses by $235,000 (11% over budget)
•Current Ratio at EOY: 1.32 (reference GE is 1.31)
FY 2016 – 2017 is on budget through February 28, 2017
The time is right to advance our core mission with confidence.
3/8/2017
6
Separation for Focus and Funding
•CVEP Spun Off Workforce Excellence Division on
March 1, 2017 into a Separate 501(c)3
•CVEP Focus is Entirely on Economic Development
•WFE Focus is the Workforce of the Future
•Continued Collaboration Between Entities
CVEP Economic Impact 2016
Elliot D. Pollack & Company
March 2, 2017
Commissioned by: Southern California Edison
Impact PS iHub Biz Services Total
Direct $55.0 M $2.3 M $57.3 M
Indirect 10.3 M $0.7 M $11.0 M
Induced 11.0 M $1.0 M $12.0 M
Total 76.3 M $4.0 M $80.3 M
3/8/2017
7
CEO REPORT
Business Services
•Created CVEP‐branded Business Services Center
•Began offering geographic information systems (GIS) services to the
business community
•Welcomed Accion, which offers micro‐and small business loans and
financial advice, at the Rabobank Regional Business Center
•Attracted first outside support for program
CEO REPORT
Tangible Value: City of La Quinta 2015
•498 Training Session Attendees ($9,960)
•133 hours of Counseling ($7,315)
•7 Client Businesses Based in City of La Quinta ($3,500)
•Includes Counseling Jules Market
2016 Business Attraction Activities
•Google Foundation: $120,000 Advertising Grant for Targeted Attraction
•GIS Directed Direct Outreach to Coastal and High Cost Communities
3/8/2017
8
CEO REPORT
Objectives for FY 2016‐17
•Established Workforce Excellence as an independent 501(c)3 entity
•Develop & Implement Business Attraction Strategy
•Attract new private investors
•Work Closer with Chambers of Commerce
•Bring valued long‐term partners back to the table
•Be attentive, transparent, and interactive
Brief Q&A
Critical Needs for Future Sustainability
Bandwidth
Full Service University
Venture Capital Firm
3/8/2017
9
City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
S1 –Sales Tax Oversight Board
Measure G Timeline
•Preliminary study session: July 19, 2016
•Measure G approved: November 8, 2016
•Community Workshop: January 25, 2017
•Effective date: April 1, 2017
•Start receiving revenue: June 2017
•First revenue report: September 2017
3/8/2017
10
Purpose & Goals
•Oversight of Revenue
•Oversight of Expenses
•Increased Community Participation/Input
–Participatory Budgeting
–Use of Technology
COMMUNITY RESOURCES
Committee Options
Expanded IAB
•Oversight of multiple overlapping
financial functions
•Quarterly: treasurer reports,
revenue and expenditure reports
•Annually: budget vs. actuals and
future projections of General Fund
revenues and expenditures; City
financial statements
•Assist with RFPs, internal control
reviews, regulatory reviews, and
financial oversight
Separate Board
•Measure G Oversight only
•Review quarterly: non-
confidential sales tax
information
•Review annually: budget vs.
actuals and future projections
of Measure G revenue and
associated expenditures
3/8/2017
11
Discussion & Direction
3/8/2017
12
City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
SS2 – Short Term Vacation Rental Program (STVRP)
Wind Up 2017
3/8/2017
13
MARKETING
•WORKSHOPS
•BRANDING
•COMMUNICATION
•MEDIA PLATFORMS
POPULARITY
3/8/2017
14
WHAT’S OUT THERE?
• 1,162
•2,200*
•INCLUDES REGISTERED
PROPERTIES
•JUST OVER 1,200
UNREGISTERED
•977
•ACCOUNTS FOR 3.6%
OF THE DWELLING
UNIT INVENTORY
•27,000
(APPROXIMATE)
DWELLING
UNITS
REGISTERED
PROPERTIES
HOTEL,
SUITE &
VILLA UNITS
ACTIVE
RENTALS
*Source: Harmari & Host Compliance
PROGRAM TRENDS
3/8/2017
15
VALLEY-WIDE COMPARISON
* Program is on a Moratorium until January 2018
** Program is on a Moratorium and will be phased out in 2018
0 500 1000 1500 2000 2500
Indian Wells**
Cathedral City
Rancho Mirage
Indio
La Quinta
Palm Desert*
Palm Springs
Registered Properties
COMMUNITY SURVEY
3/8/2017
16
CODE COMPLIANCE
2016 STATS
CODE COMPLIANCE ROLE
CODE
ISSUE CITATION
•1ST - $100.00
•2ND - $200.00
•3RD - $500.00
AFTER 3 COMPLAINTS
CODE WILL MOVE TO FINAL
MOTIONS
FINAL MOTIONS
•Present to City Manager to
suspend STVRP 90 days
•Revoke STVRP and
Business License
STVR LICENSING
COMPLIANCE
10-DAY COURTESY
NOTICE
CITATION
COMPLAINTS
(NOISE OR OTHER)
COURTESY CALL
SSU )
COURTESY CALL
(45 MINUTES TO RESOLVE
ISSUE)
CITATION
3/8/2017
17
CODE COMPLIANCE ACTIONS
Citation
$100 first offense, per violation
$200 second offense, per violation
$500 third offense, per violation
90 Day Suspension of Business License
Loss of Revenue to encourage compliance
1 Year Revocation of Business License (STVR)
Loss of Revenue to encourage compliance
FUTURE OPPORTUNITIES
3/8/2017
18
CROSSROADS
Is there a desire to fulfill the need for
dedicated staff resources?
What level of effort should be applied to
pursue non-compliant rentals and TOT?
Is there a desire to sustain or grow the
program?
3/8/2017
19
BEFORE THE HUB/TRAKiT
BACKLOG
APPLICATION
PROCESSING
TOT CHECK
PROCESSING
PROCESSED
BETWEEN
BUSINESS
LICENSE
CUSTOMERS
OUTDATED
FORMS
BUSINESS
LICENSE
REGISTRATION
TOT
REDUNDANT
TRACKING
TOT
REAL‐TIME
INFORMATION
NOT AVAILABLE
CODE
COMPLIANCE
UNDEFINED
WORKFLOW
FOR NEWLY
IDENTIFIED
NON‐
COMPLIANT
PROPERTIES
REGISTRATION
FEE
$25
WELCOME
PACKET
PRINTED
INDIVIDUAL
LICENSE,
PERMIT &
TOT FORMS
WEBPAGE
HARD TO
LOCATE
CLUTTERED
RENEWALS
OCCURRED
THROUGHOUT
THE YEAR
ACTIONS TAKEN
ELIMINATED BACKLOG
•PROVIDED PERMIT TECH SUPPORT
•3 DAYS PER WEEK AWAY FROM
PUBLIC COUNTER
UPDATED & REVAMPED
•BUSINESS LICENSE
•REGISTRATION
•TOT
TRAKiT
•STREAMLINED TOT TRACKING
•DEVELOPED REAL‐TIME REPORTS
CODE COMPLIANCE
•DEFINED WORKFLOW
INCREASED
REGISTRATION FEE
•$100
WELCOME PACKET
•STREAMLINED
•2 CLICK PROCESS
WEBPAGE
•EASIER TO LOCATE
•REVAMPED
•QUICK START GUIDE
SHIFTED RENEWALS
•ALL RENEWALS OCCUR DURING
SUMMER MONTHS
3/8/2017
20
COMMUNITY FEEDBACK
•HOTLINE
•PARKING
•DISREGARD FOR
RESIDENTS
•Airbnb
•WEBSITE
•IMPROVED
COMMUNICATION
•PLAY LA QUINTA
WEBSITE
•KEEP RESIDENTS
INFORMED
•BUILD TRUST
•MANAGE EXPECTATIONS
OF HOSTS AND GUESTS
•RESTRICT
NEIGHBORHOODS
AREAS OF
CONCERN
WHAT’S
WORKING?
PART OF
OUR CITY
NEIGHBORING CITIES
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
MORATORIUM
NEW ORDINANCE PASSED
INCREASED RESTRICTIONS
CREATED DEDICATED DEPARTMENT
URGENCY ORDINANCE REPEAL/REPLACE
REVERTS TO PROVISIONS PRIOR TO
DECEMBER 2016
MAY RECOMMEND PUBLIC VOTE
CITY OF PALM DESERT
MORATORIUM
PROGRAM UNDER 45 DAY REVIEW
EXTENDED FOR 10 MONTHS 15 DAYS
3/8/2017
21
VALLEY-WIDE COMPARISON
* Program is on a Moratorium until January 2018
** Program is on a Moratorium and will be phased out in 2018
$‐ $2,000,000 $4,000,000 $6,000,000
Indian Wells**
Cathedral City
Rancho Mirage
Indio
Palm Desert*
La Quinta
Palm Springs TOT Revenue
RESOURCE COMPARISON
CITY
REGISTERED
PROPERTIES
2016
TOT ALLOCATED STAFF RESOURCES
STAFF
RESOURCE
COST
CONTRACT
RESOURCES
TOTAL
COST
TOT TAX
RATE
PALM SPRINGS 1936 $6.3 M
2 ‐Compliance Officials
(Directors)
3 ‐Code Enforcement Officers
1 ‐Building Inspector
1 ‐Coordinator
2 ‐Assistants
Police Back‐up
$1,175,000 $180,000 $1,355,000 11.5%
LA QUINTA 977 $1.84 M
½‐Registration and TOT
½ ‐Management Specialist
Code and Police Support
$109,382 $48,200 $157,582 10%
PALM DESERT 1208 $1.27 M
1 ‐STVRP Registration and TOT
1 ‐STVRP Business
License/Renewals
1 ‐Code Enforcement
Officer
$429,000 $26,600 $455,600 9%*
*TOT Tax Rate has increased to 11% as of January 1, 2017
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CONTRACT RESOURCES
CITY
VACATION RENTAL
COMPLIANCE HOTLINE SECURITY COMPANY
PALM SPRINGS $100,000 $20,000 $60,000
LA QUINTA $43,200 $5,000 0
PALM DESERT $21,600 $5,000 0
EFFICIENCY
SUPPLEMENTING
RESOURCES
EFFECTS TO
CUSTOMER
SERVICE
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23
REAL-TIME
TOT REVENUE REPORT
COLLABORATION
RECOGNIZE VACATION RENTALS AS PART OF OUR ECO‐SYSTEM
EVOKE A POSITIVE PERCEPTION OF VACATION RENTALS
WORK CLOSELY WITH HOSTS TO ENCOURAGE RESPECTFULNESS OF GUESTS WITHIN THEIR HOME AND OUR
COMMUNITY
WORK WITH OUR COMMUNITY TO WELCOME GUESTS INTO OUR CITY
CONTINUE TO OFFER COMMUNITY WORKSHOP EVENTS
CREATE AN INCLUSIVE ENVIRONMENT FOR ALL WHO WISH TO VACATION IN THE CITY
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Estimated Cost of New STVR -Code Compliance
Efforts per Year # of Cases Cost Total
Code Compliance of Non-Licensed STVRs (2 hrs. per
case)
100 $90 $9,010
Code Compliance - Noise Complaints (1.5 hrs. per
case)
80 $68 $5,406
Police Cost to respond to STVR Noise Complaints (1 hr.
per case)
50 $160 $8,011
Total $22,427
COST OF MAINTAINING
STVR COMPLIANCE
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Month Notes # of Calls %
2016
April Coachella/Stagecoach 25 33%
May 11 14%
June 6 8%
July 8 11%
August 4 5%
September 9 12%
October Desert Trip 9 12%
November 1 1%
December 3 4%
Total 76
2017
January 4
Total 80
COMPLAINTS RECEIVED THROUGH HOTLINE
CODE COMPLIANCE
FUTURE ENFORCEMENT EFFORTS
CREATE A LOG TO INCLUDE CALLS FROM:
•Cadence
•Police
•Code
SEND CITATION FOR THE FOLLOWING:
•Failure to renew a STVR permit
•Failure to renew a business license
•Failure to report TOT
•Failure to post their permit number on
advertisement
•Failure to comply with municipal codes
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City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
SS3 – North La Quinta
Landscape Renovation
Background
•2013: City took over North La Quinta Parkways
•2015: Governor mandates water conservation
•2016: Council adopts 2016/17 CIP
•North LQ Pkwy turf reduction project
•$750K allocated per year for next 7 years
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Background
•2016: Measure G Passes
•Council requests expanded scope/expedited schedule
•Community Workshop –t o p 3 projects
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28
Improvements
•Removing turf ‐parkways and slopes of basins
•“Desert Efficient” landscape in parkways
•“Desert Oasis” landscape on slopes
•Reducing slopes exceeding 3:1 using block
Improvements
•Cleaning/painting all non split face walls
•Cleaning split face walls
•Replacing light fixtures at intersections (as required)
•Adding new electrical elements at dark intersections
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Improvements
•Removing trees in turf areas (as required)
•Removing trees under power lines (as required)
•Replacing trees (1 tree for every 3 trees removed)
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31
Budget
•Year 1: $3.3 Million
La Quinta Vistas, Highlands, Acacia
•Year 2: $2.8 Million
Rancho Ocotillo, Quinterra, Cactus Flower
•Year 3: $3.9 Million
Desert Pride, Sierra Del Rey, Marbella, Topaz
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City Council Meeting
March 7, 2017
PH1 – Villas at Old Town
Project Area Map
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33
Specific Plan Amendment
•First amendment divided into two parts:
- Part A addresses Old Town La Quinta
- Part B addresses the Villas at Old Town
•Second amendment to the Old Town Specific Plan
- Removes Villas at Old Town