2004 03 16 CC Minutes
LA QUINT A CITY COUNCIL
- MINUTES
MARCH 16, 2004
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of
2:00 p.m. by Mayor Adolph.
PRESENT: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Adolph
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
CLOSED SESSION
1. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Mark Weiss, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of a portion of 525:t: acres
located at the southwest corner of Avenue 52 and Jefferson Street.
Property Owner/Negotiator: Andy Vossler.
-
.2. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Mark Weiss, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of a portion of 525:t: acres
located at the southwest corner of Avenue 52 and Jefferson Street.
Property Owner/Negotiator: John Foster.
Council recessed to Closed Session to and until the hour of 3:00 p.m.
3:00 P.M.
The City Council meeting reconvened with no decisions being made in Closed
Session which require reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government
Code (Brown Act).
Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
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City Council Minutes 2 March 16, 2004
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jack Fleck, of VFW Post 855 expressed appreciation for the City's support of their
fund raiser dinner that benefits their Junior ROTC/California Cadet Corp Scholarship
Program. He also thanked the Council for supporting Jacques Abels as the City's
delegate to the World War II Memorial dedication in Washington, D. C.
* * * * * * * * *
Dr. Richard Farmer, Executive Director of the Foùndation for the Retarded of the
Desert, announced March is Mental Retardation Awareness Month, and gave a
brief overview of the Foundation's services. He also thanked the City for its
support.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Mayor Adolph requested Consent Item No.8 be moved to Business Item No.6. He
indicated he would also like to discuss a letter received from Bernard Jacques
Debonne under Mayor & Council Members' Items.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Osborne/Sniff to confirm the agenda
as amended. Motion carried unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS - None
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
1. CORRESPONDENCE FROM THE S.C.R.A.P. GALLERY (STUDENT CREATIVE
RECYCLE ART PROGRAM).
Council concurred to refer the letter to staff to inform the organization of the
Community Services Grant Program.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Council Member Henderson indicated her comment on Page 6 was related to the
City's lighting plan and not the landscape plan. She requested the comment be
deleted.
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City Council Minutes 3 March 1 6, 2004
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff IPerkins to approve the City
-
Council Minutes of March 2, 2004, as corrected (deleting Council Member
Henderson's comment as requested). Motion carried unanimously.
.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED MARCH 16,2004.
2. APPROVAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED JANUARY 31, 2004.
3. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE & EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED JANUARY
31, 2004.
4. ADOPT A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING GUEST BADGES TO THE NABISCO
CHAMPIONSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD MARCH 22-28, 2004,
IN RANCHO MIRAGE, CALIFORNIA. (RESOLUTION NO. 2004-30)
5. ACCEPTANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRACT NO.
29349-1, NORMAN COURSE, KSL LAND CORPORATION.
- 6. ACCEPTANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRACT NO.
29349-2, NORMAN COURSE, KSL LAND CORPORATION.
7. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH
CALIFORNIA LANDSCAPE AND DESIGN, INC. TO PROVIDE DESIGN/BUILD
SERVICES FOR THE LA QUINTA SKATE PARK, PROJECT NO. 2003-12.
8. SEE BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO.6.
9. APPROVAL OF PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS AND BliD DOCUMENTS AND
AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BID THE FISCAL YEAR 2003/2004
SLURRY SEAL AND RESTRIPING PROGRAM, PROJECT NO. 2004-03. (See
Page 5 for reconsideration of this item.)
10. APPROVAL OF AN AMENDED SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT
AND ACCEPTANCE OF STREET IMPROVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH
PARCEL MAP NO. 30420, CENTRE AT LA QUINTA, STAMKO
DEVELOPMENT COMPANY.
11 . APPROVAL OF AN ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION AGREEMENT AND
- AMENDED SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP
NO. 29121, THE LAURELS AT PGA WEST, RIVIERA VILLAS, LLC.
City Council Minutes 4 March 16, 2004
12. APPROVAL OF AN ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION AGREEMENT AND
AMENDED SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP
NO. 29122, THE LAURELS AT PGA WEST, RIVIERA VILLAS, LLC.
13. APPROVAL OF AN ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION AGREEMENT AND
AMENDED SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP
NO. 29125, THE LAURELS AT PGA WEST, RIVIERA VILLAS, LLC.
14. AUTHORIZATION TO FILE A GRANT APPLICATION WITH THE INDIAN
GAMING LOCAL COMMUNITY BENEFIT COMMITTEE FOR A LAW
ENFORCEMENT PROJECT RELATED TO MITIGATION OF IMPACTS OF
GAMING ON THE CITY OF LA QUINT A.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve
the Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with the exception of
Item No.8 and with Item No.4 being approved by RESOLUTION NO.
2004-30 (Note: Item No.9 was later reconsidered). Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-28.
Discussion Regarding Item No.7:
In response to Council Member Perkins, Community Services Director Horvitz
confirmed input received from attendees at the Community Services
Commission meeting will be incorporated into the skate park design as much
as the budget will allow. She indicated three design concepts will be
presented to the Commission on April 12th and the Commission will
recommend one to the City Council.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Horvitz stated the skate park
design referenced by Ms. Walthrip is for a larger skate park at a higher cost.
The contractor will see if any of the components can be incorporated into
this skate park if he can get a copy of the plans. She confirmed the three
design concepts will include modular units.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Ms. Horvitz stated the skate park will be
mostly modular units with a concrete bowl.
Discussion Regarding Item No.9:
Council Member Perkins requested the plans be brought back to Council for
approval of the striping.
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City Council Minutes 5 March 16, 2004
Public Works Director Jonasson indicated the striping will be the same as it
¡oo--
, is currently. He noted restriping of the bike lane and left-turn pocket would
, be a separate project and require traffic engineering plans.
.
Council Member Perkins voiced safety concerns about the narrow width of
the bike lane. He requested Council's support in getting the left-turn pockets
extended where necessary and the bike lanes widened to five feet.
City Manager Genovese suggested this item be continued to the next
meeting to give staff an opportunity to look at possible changes.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Jonasson confirmed a two-
week continuance would not be a problem.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members PerkinslSniff to reconsider
Consent Item No.9. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.
2004-29.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff IOsborne to continue
Consent Item No.9 (Slurry Seal and Restriping Program) to April 6, 2004.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-30.
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BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF AN INTERACTIVE WATER FEATURE FOR THE
LA QUINT A PARK.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Ms. Horvitz confirmed the total
cost of the project could be $156,000 if a grant application filed by the City
for the rubber surfacing is not received. She explained that after the Council
directed staff to send out a second RFP and no art submittals were received,
the RFP was sent to commercial vendors.
In response to several questions by the Council, Elaine Dove, of David Volz
Design, stated the water features are activated manually and are turned off
by a timer. The flush-surface, floo,r jets spray two to six feet high,
depending on the programming. The palm tree water feature is stainless
steel and powder coated.
-
Ms. Horvitz stated the water feature area will accommodate approximately
40 children at one time. She indicated no complaints have been received
City Council Minutes 6 March 16, 2004
about the surface of the Adams Park or Fritz Burns Park water features being
too hot.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to approve the
interactive water feature concept (for the La Guinta Park) as proposed.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-31.
2. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST TO DEVELOP A CUL-DE-SAC OF FIESTA
DRIVE AT THE EAST END OF JEFFERSON STREET.
Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report, and Assistant
City Engineer Speer reviewed options for the Fiesta Drive/Jefferson Street
intersection. He also reviewed how the new bridge elevation level will relate
to the intersection. He confirmed the incline will change when the bridge is
constructed, and that the sidewalk can be extended between the bridge and
curb return. He stated the school traffic pattern is expected to change once
a traffic signal is installed at Westward Ho Drive.
In response to Mayor Adolph's question regarding Option #3, Mr. Speer
indicated an emergency access gate would be necessary to meet City Code.
He confirmed emergency personnel would have to physically open the gate
as they do at other emergency access gate locations.
Council Member Henderson asked if the options have been reviewed with
residents, to which Mr. Jonasson responded that staff was waiting to see if
the Council is interested in including a cul-de-sac at the intersection.
Elizabeth Uher-Hopkins, 79-885 Fiesta Drive, commented on the speed of
traffic in the neighborhood, and stated she supports a cul-de-sac. She also
suggested the speed limit trailer be used in the area to slow down traffic.
Kathleen Hartung, 79-890 Fiesta Drive, stated she supports a cul-de-sac for
safety reasons.
Sandra Harding, 79-755 Fiesta Drive, referenced a petition submitted in June
2001 in support of a cul-de-sac and stated she prefers Option 3B. She
noted the streets are narrow and cars speed through the area.
Elaine Allen, 79-905 Fiesta Drive, spoke in support of Option 3B, and noted
the new development behind her house will create more traffic at that
intersection.
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City Council Minutes 7 March 16, 2004
Shane Falleur, 79-895 Fiesta Drive, stated he supports Option 3B, and 100%
r-- of the neighborhood supports a cul-de-sac.
Reiner Jakel, 79-900 Fiesta Drive, indicated he prefers Option 3B but will
accept Option 3A if money is an issue.
Cory Barbeau, 79-820 Fiesta Drive, stated he supports any option that
closes the street. He believes the bridge will make the intersection more
dangerous because of the speed of traffic on Jefferson Street and suggested
a traffic signal be installed if the street is not closed.
Council Member Henderson stated she was contacted by a resident in the
area who is opposed to closing the street and wants the City to survey the
entire neighborhood before making a decision.
Council Member Sniff suggested moving forward as soon as possible to deal
with Options 3A or 3B and making every attempt to get the input of all of
the residents in the area. He agreed the decision will affect the entire
neighborhood but feels it will mostly affect the resi~ents on Fiesta Drive. He
expressed hope the process can be completed by the June 1, 2004 Council
meeting.
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Council Member Osborne agreed, and requested a police report on Fiesta
Drive traffic issues.
In response to some of the public comments, Council Member Henderson
noted the community voted against undergrounding the electricity and
installation of sidewalks. She feels the issue needs to be presented to the
whole community.
Mr. Speer stated none of the options will impact the Jefferson Street
widening project. He noted Fiesta Drive would be a separate project, and
will be closed for approximately six months during the bridge construction.
Mr. Jonasson noted approximately 150 feet of right-of-way will need to be
acquired as part of the options and time will be needed for that.
Council Member Perkins stated he believes Option 38 is the simplest option
and if any further redesign is needed, it can be done after Jefferson Street is
completed.
Mayor Adolph stated he understands the residents' concerns about Fiesta
-
Drive. He also shares concerns about vehicles trying to enter speeding
traffic on Jefferson Street when the new bridge is constructed. He supports
1
City Council Minutes 8 March 16, 2004
getting input from the community, and commented on the short distance
between Fiesta Drive and Westward Ho Drive. He feels closing Fiesta Drive
would have minimal impact to traffic flow in the development.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Speer stated he anticipates the
bridge construction to begin by the end of this year.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to direct staff to
initiate the process of moving forward with Option 38, provide the
information to all of the residents in the Westward Ho area, and come back
to Council with a recommendation by June 1, 2004. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-32.
3. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE'NO. 402
ORDINANCE NO. 402
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PROJECT
AREA NO.1 PURSUANT TO SENATE BILL 1045 AS CODIFIED IN HEALTH &
SAFETY CODE SECTION 33333.6(e)(2)(C).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No.
402 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff,
Mayor Adolph
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
4. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 403
ORDINANCE NO. 403
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PROJECT
AREA NO.2 PURSUANT TO SENATE BILL 1045 AS CODIFIED IN HEALTH &
SAFETY CODE SECTION 33333.6(e)(2)(C).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No.
403 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
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City Council Minutes 9 March 16, 2004
AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff,
-
r Mayor Adolph
f
, NOES: None
. ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
.
5. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 404
ORDINANCE NO. 404
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR PROJECT
AREA NO.2 PURSUANT TO SENATE BILL 211 AS CODIFIED IN HEALTH &
SAFETY CODE SECTION 33333.6(e)(2)(B).
It was moved by Council. Members SnifflOsborne to adopt Ordinance No.
404 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff,
Mayor Adolph
- NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
6. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF PROJECT SPECIFICATIONS AND BID
DOCUMENTS AND AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BID THE TRAFFIC
SIGNAL LED LAMP RETROFIT, PROJECT NO. 2004-02.
There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the
City Clerk's Office.
Mayor Adolph referenced the cost and questioned the need to change the
lamps before they burn out.
Public Works Director Jonasson indicated the retrofit cost would be
recovered through electrical cost savings in less than four years.
In response to Council Member Sniff, City Manager Genovese confirmed
separate billings are received for each traffic signal and can be provided but
- noted the project has been in the budget for some time.
City Council Minutes 10 March 16, 2004
Mayor Adolph stated he would support it if it's a safety factor but isn't sure
brighter lights will be any easier to see. He asked if the project can be done
as the bulbs burn out.
Mr. Jona~son explained the change to LED lamps requires some hardware
change in addition to the lamps. He stated the reason for doing the project
is electrical cost savings, and added all new traffic signals currently are
installed with LED lamps.
Assistant City Engineer Speer stated the alternative to going out to bid is to
have the County make the changes but the County requested the City go out
to bid on the project because of the amount of work involved. He explained
the current components in each traffic signal will have to be replaced with
LED lamp components instead of replacing one bulb at a time.
Mr. Genovese advised the request to change to LED lamps came from the
City Council.
Council Member Perkins stated he believes the LED lamps are easier to see
and, therefore, safer. He noted La Ouinta is behind most of the other cities
in the Valley that have already retrofitted their traffic signals. He stated he
requested this item be placed on the agenda, and doesn't see it as an
unnecessary expense but rather the most major improvement in traffic
signals over the last 25 years.
Mayor Adolph stated he doesn't have a problem doing it for safety but noted
safety was not referenced in the staff report.
Council Member Sniff suggested approving this and dealing with it when the
bids are received.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to approve the
project specifications and bid documents and authorization to advertise for
bid the Fiscal year 2003/2004 Slurry Seal and Restriping Program, Project
No. 2004-03.
Council Member Henderson stated she recalls the issue being brought up by
Council numerous times and receiving sufficient support to move through the
process. She further recalls staff being chastised by Council for the project
not being done. She didn't realize the cost would be so high but supports
going to bid on the project.
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City Council Minutes 11 March 16, 2004
In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Genovese stated staff will research the'
- history on the project and include that information when the item comes
back to Council.
.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-33.
Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency to and until 7 :00 P.M.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Jack Avram, 54-145 Avenida Diaz, questioned why residents have to send Code
Enforcement violation payments to Santa Ana instead of having a contact at City
Hall where the problem might be resolved. He also feels 1 0 days is insufficient
time for some residents to correct the violations, and suggested the City help,
instead of adding more fines, if the residents don't have the financial means to
make the corrections. He indicated the Building & Safety Director was unable to
help him with his code enforcement citations after he brought them up at a
- previous Council meeting.
. Mayor Adolph asked staff to meet with Mr. Avram to answer his questions.
PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Council Members presented art awards to the following students of
Adams Elementary School whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall:
Alejandra LeGrand David Martinez Abigail Perez
Reina Leon Itzayana Mata Alexa Pinson
Abraham Leon IIse Mata Carolina Ponce
Ruby Leon Yvette Meza Diana Quevedo
Richard Leon, Jr. Mailen Meza Abril Ramirez
Pamela Leyva Maria Morales Mario Ramierez
Lizarazu Mireles David Morin Diana Ramierez
Jacqueline Lopez Chevelle Morris Doane Reyes
Christian Lopez Douglas Orme Ericka Reyna
Tanya Lopez Jazmine Ortiz Bailey Riley
- Conner Maloney Ursula Padilla Brandon Riley
Michelle Martinez Michelle Palacio Kayla Roe
Leslie Martinez Rebecca Parsons Jose Rodriguez
City Council Minutes 12 March 16, 2004
Joseph Rossenrode Irfan Soetomo Alejandra Valencia
Lauren Saldivar Jacob Tarango Martha Valencia
Jessica Salomon Darian Thomas Adrian Vivas
Gabriel Sanchez Cassandra Torres Victorian Vu
David Alan Silverman Danny Torres Mariah Wiley
Andrew Silverman Marisol Valencia Krystal Zavala
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS ON: 1)
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2004-501 TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED
NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT; AND 2) GENERAL
PLAN AMENDMENT 2004-099 TO ADD A PROGRAM TO THE TRAFFIC AND
CIRCULATION ELEMENT TO ALLOW SIGNALIZED INTERSECTIONS AT A
LESSER DISTANCE THAN IS CURRENTLY PERMITTED ON AUGMENTED
MAJOR ARTERIAL STREETS. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA.
At the request of staff, Public Hearing Item Nos. 1 and 2 were discussed
concurrently. Any actions specifically related to Item No.1 are so noted and
included under Item No.2.
2. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS
AND AN ORDINANCE ON: 1) ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2003-479
TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT; 2) GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2003-04 AND ZONE CHANGE
2003-115 TO CHANGE LAND USES AND ZONING DESIGNATIONS FROM
COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL AND MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL; AND 3) TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31348 TO
CONSIDER THE SUBDIVISION OF 37.72 ACRES INTO 72 LOTS AND ONE
OPEN SPACE LOT FOR PROPERTY LOCATED AT 46-201 WASHINGTON
STREET. APPLICANT: MADISON DEVELOPMENT, LLC.
Associate Planner Magaña reviewed the proposed General Plan Amendment,
Zone Change, and Tentative Tract Map for the Madison Development
project.
Prior to reviewing the access options, Assistant City Engineer Speer noted
the developer's original access proposal will become the default position
unless Council adopts another option. He confirmed the Planning
Commission approved the developer's proposed access in November 2003.
City Attorney Jenson clarified a default position is necessary only if the
Council decides to go with a signalized intersection. The default position will
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City Council Minutes 13 March 16, 2004
provide a fall-back option should the developer or City not acquire the
~ properties needed for the adopted option.
I
. Mr. Speer explained Access Option 2A allows two-way traffic from Cameo
Palms Drive, Access Option 28 allows one-way-in .traffic only, and Access
Option 2C is an emergency access gate only. He advised Access Option 2C
is the consensus choice of the public attending the February meeting. He
noted under Access Option 3, traffic from the new development would enter
the frontage road and access Washington Street at Highland Palms Drive.
Access Option 4 combines the Plaza La Quinta access with the Madison
Development access and is right-in, right-out with a deceleration lane. He
noted Access Option 4 would be difficult on the project because of the two
interior gates that would affect traffic circulation within the development.
He stated Access Option 5 is right-in, right-out and requires closing the
existing frontage road access. He added staff is recommending the Highland
Palms back access gate remain open for residents to use under Access
Options 3, 4, and 5.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Speer confirmed Access Option 2 would
require acquisition of the two lots on Singing Palms Drive.
- In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Speer stated the nose of the
frontage road island in Access Option 3 would be extended to keep vehicles
from entering directly onto Washington Street. Under Access Option 5, the
median island nose would be extended to keep vehicles from the
development from crossing over and using the left-turn pocket at Simon
Drive to go north. He stated Access Option 5 provides a deceleration lane,
along with three lanes in each direction.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Speer indicated there is
insufficient distance to provide a merging lane under Access Option 5.
Council Member Sniff commented on the speed of traffic in that area.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Speer stated there IS
approximately 940 feet between Highway 111 and Simon Drive.
Council Member Perkins voiced concern about southbound traffic on
Washington Street backing up in the left-turn pocket at Simon Drive. He
stated he understands the concern about traffic signals being too close but
feels this is an exception and believes Access Option 2 is the safest way to
move traffic.
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City Council Minutes 14 March 16, 2004
In reviewing the Washington Park access points for Council Member
Henderson, Mr. Speer confirmed Washington Park can revise their site plan
and request a traffic signal at one of their access points if a traffic signal is
not placed at Simon Drive.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Speer explained how the
current distance allowed between traffic signals was derived in the General
Plan, and noted up to three traffic signals is currently allowed within one
mile.
The Mayor declared PUBLIC HEARING NO.1 and PUBLIC HEARING NO.2.
OPEN at 7:50 p.m.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Speer reviewed how
Highland Palms Drive ties in with the new development.
Rick Wilkerson, 78-750 Highway 111, of Madison Development, showed a
concept drawing of how the entry will look if a signalized intersection at
Simon Drive is approved, and indicated he is available to answer questions.
He also requested the opportunity to speak again after public comments are
received.
Robert Cox, 78-315 Crestview Terrace, spoke in support of the project and
indicated the residents prefer Access Option 2, with possibly a majority
wanting Access Option 2C. He indicated an open gate at Highland Palms
Drive is not an option the residents will support.
Don Rector, 46-450 Cameo Palms Drive, voiced support for the project and
Access Option 2A.
Sebastian Campagna, 78-340 Singing Palms Drive, stated he supports
Access Option 2 without agate at Singing Palms Drive. He feels a traffic
signal at Simon Drive will reduce the traffic congestion caused by church
traffic on Saturdays and Sundays at Highland Palms Drive. He also feels the
two property owners should be adequately compensated for the loss of their
properties and environment if the traffic signal is approved.
Amy Heglund, 46-285 Washington Street, spoke in support of Access
Option 2C and walling off the frontage road. She urged the developer to
properly compensate the two property owners.
Bill Sanchez, 80-251 Barcelona Street, Indio, representing Washington 111
Limited, stated their traffic study indicates a traffic signal at Simon Drive is
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City Council Minutes 15 March 16, 2004
not warranted. Therefore, they feel Madison Development should have to
- bear the full cost of the traffic signal improvements if approved.
. Michael Van Denabel, 46-875 Highland Palms, voiced support for Access
Option 2, and closing the back gate on Highland Palms Drive. She also
commented on the need for the two property owners to be fairly
compensated.
Curtis Barlow, 79-080 Citrus, voiced concern about the traffic impact to
Washington Street if a traffic signal is installed at Simon Drive. He
suggested tying the project access into the frontage road to exit at Avenue
47.
Mr. Rector noted under Access Option 2, the frontage road access would be
gated for residential waste hauler use only. He further noted the residence
at the corner of Singing Palms Drive needs to retain vehicular access to their
back yard. He feels Access Option 5 should be the default position.
Mr. Wilkerson stated he can accept Access Option 5 but noted a traffic
signal will most likely be installed somewhere between Highway 111 and
Avenue 47. He stated they cannot agree to an open-ended commitment
- without. a default position should the economics of a traffic signal become
overwhelming for the development. They are willing to negotiate in good
faith for the two properties and to spend money to develop both grading
plans but will have to abandon it if the negotiations cannot be accomplished
and the cost and public outcry become too great. He stated he is opposed
to Access Option 3. They will agree to a traffic signal with some limitations
and a default position of Access Option 5. He requested modification of
Condition No. 82 as they are unable to come up with a third historical
individual associated with the property.
Council Member Henderson suggested the name, U Alice Marble."
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Wilkerson stated he had some
meaningful dialogue today with one of the property owner's attorney and
spoke to another attorney who may be representing the other property
owner :. He stated they are prepared to make another offer that conforms
with the maximum amount they can pay. He advised the price of homes in
the new development will begin at $200 per square foot.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Speer indicated utilizing only one lot for
- the traffic signal would put the entry road at too mucn of an angle.
City Council Minutes 16 March 16, 2004
There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared PUBLIC
HEARING NO.1 and PUBLIC HEARING NO.2 CLOSED at 8:33 p.m.
In response to Council Member Henderson, City Attorney Jenson noted the
issue of acquiring the two lots is not before the Council at this time. She
explained the eminent domain process includes having the property
appraised, deciding whether or not to proceed with a fair-market value offer,
submitting a formal offer (which could include relocation benefits and
purchase-price differential if no comparable home can be purchased in the
area), and considering counter offers. Once that process is completed, a
Resolution of Necessity must be adopted by the Council before an eminent
domain complaint can be filed, and any disagreement about the fair-market
value amount is decided by a jury. She advised the City cannot pre-commit
to the eminent domain process, which IS why a fall-back position IS
important. She added the decision to go to a default position would depend
on whether or not the Council decides to enter into eminent domain
proceedings, and the developer does not get the choice to go to the default
unless that is what the Council wants. Should the Council decide to go with
a traffic signal option, a reimbursement agreement would be prepared and
the developer would be responsible for all of the expenses, including
relocation costs. The developer would not have the option of backing out
unless the Council decides to set a cap amount, which would be different
from a reimbursement agreement.
Council Member Henderson questioned unique surroundings being a factor in
appraising fair-market value.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Ms. Jenson advised the City is
allowed to use eminent domain to extend public streets.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Jonasson confirmed Fred
Waring Drive and Washington Street is the busi~st intersection in the Valley
with Washington Street and Highway 111 being second. He indicated traffic
between Highway 111 and Channel Drive should not get backed-up if the
signals are working properly. Mr. Speer advised CalTrans is working on
some software issues in the new controller at Washington Street and
Highway 111, as well as trying to resolve some operation problems along
Highway 111 .
Council Member Perkins commented on the amount of traffic in the area, and
stated he feels a traffic signal at Simon Drive is necessary to handle traffic
from the new development.
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City Council Minutes 17 March 16, 2004
Council Member Henderson stated she has felt since the project was
- presented that a traffic signal is needed at Simon Drive but is somewhat
unsettled about the eminent domain issue. She voiced disappointment about
the developer and residents not being able to come to an agreement, and
noted both property owners have indicated they believe a traffic signal is the
solution but have also indicated how difficult they are going to make that
solution. She believes a traffic signal at Simon Drive will accommodate this
development as well as the commercial development across the street, and
noted the new development is legally entitled to access. She indicated she
believes a default position on Access Option 5 would work.
Council Member Sniff stated he feels Access Option 2C is the logical
solution with Access Option 5 as a default position.
Council Member Osborne stated he feels a traffic signal at Simon Drive will
create traffic problems on Washington Street, and doesn't believe that it
justifies eminent domain proceedings. He doesn't feel traffic from the new
development will be a major impact to the area, and noted the new
development would have access in both the front and rear if it wasn't a
gated community. He likes Access Option 5 and believes the rear gate
should be an open access.
-
Council Member Sniff noted the closing of Adams Street has increased
traffic problems on Washington Street.
Mayor Adolph voiced concern about the City getting involved with eminent
domain should the developer and residents not be able to reach an
agreement. He suggested the possibility of the City helping satisfy the
financial conditions if the developer and residents cannot reach an agreement
but feels Access Option 5 is the only other alternative. He pointed out the
traffic situation will improve somewhat when Washington Street is widened
to three lanes in each direction, and the traffic signals are coordinated to
improve traffic flow.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Ms. Jenson stated the Council can continue
this item to give the developer and property owners more time to come to an
agreement. She clarified that the eminent domain issue is controlled by the
City and that under the currently-proposed conditions, the developer would
pay 100% of the expenses associated with acquiring the properties.
Mr. Jonasson noted the conditions of approval do not include Access
Option 5 as a default position, and that language will need to be added if it is
-
included.
City Council Minutes 18 March 16, 2004
Council Member Henderson stated she would not support Access Option 5
without the back gate being an open access. She commented on the
potential for relief of traffic congestion once Miles Avenue is reopened and
traffic from the Wal-mart and Target store openings settle down.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARINGS REOPENED A 10: 15 p.m.
Dan Olivier, of Best, Best, & Krieger, suggested adding a condition that gives
the developer a set period of time for good-faith efforts to acquire the two
properties and approves Access Option 5 as a default position if he is
unsuccessful.
Ms. Jenson advised the Council needs to be comfortable without going
straight to Access Option 5 because it takes the decision out of the
Council's hands. The conditions of approval proposed in the staff report
require the developer to enter a reimbursement agreement with the City to
provide for deposits before a final map can be recorded, and the decision
would be up to the Council instead of the developer. She stated the letter
from Madison Development states they will pay the acquisition costs but
now Mr. Wilkerson has indicated there may be a cap amount.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Speer confirmed under Access
Option 5, the access road would be closed, which would leave the existing
neighborhood with only one access point.
Council Member Henderson noted a number of neighborhoods have
requested a second access when only one is available. She stated she feels
Access Option 2 with a gate would negate the purpose because the existing
neighborhood would not have access to the traffic signal. She supports
Access Option 2A with Access Option 5 as a default position and giving the
developer 35 to 40 days to resolve the issue and make a decision as to
which way to go.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Speer confirmed the frontage road south
of Highland, Palms Drive will be closed off when the remainder of the church
property is developed. The church will have direct access to Washington
Street and access to the traffic signal at Lake La Quinta Drive.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Speer stated the distance
between Highland Palms Drive and Lake La Quinta Drive is approximately
1 ,250 feet.
Council took a brief recess to give staff an opportunity to draft language for
the default position in the conditions of approval.
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City Council Minutes 19 March 16, 2004
Council reconvened.
-
Mr. Jonasson reviewed six conditions of approval that staff recommends be
added to the tentative tract map if Access Option 5 is implemented.
Mayor Adolph stated there has been a suggestion by some of the residents
that he or the City Attorney act as a facilitator in the negotiations to make
. sure the developer works in good faith with the two property owners. He
asked if Council would like to consider continuing this item to give the
developer and property owners time to try to come to an agreement with a
member of staff acting as a facilitator.
Council Member Henderson suggested any continuance not be for more than
30 days. She stated she feels the developer has shown to have the best
interest of the community in mind in previous dealings with the City but
since the residents most affected by this project don't share that opinion,
maybe having a staff member participate in the discussions will help
establish whether or not a good faith effort has been made.
Mr. Wilkerson voiced opposition to a continuance. He doesn't have a
problem with a staff member sitting in on the negotiations, and noted there
- are officers of the court that can serve as mediators.
Ms. Jenson advised the Council can: 1) approve Access Option 5;
2) approve Access Option 2 as drafted, placing the default in the City's
hands and requiring the developer to commit through a reimbursement
agreement to go through the eminent domain process and fully fund it if the
Council decides to go' that direction; or 3) approve Access Option 2 and have
a set period of time for the developer to negotiate with the property owners
and, if the negotiations are unsuccessful, allow the developer to proceed
with Access Option 5.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Jenson confirmed under the
second option, the Council would have the flexibility to decide whether or
not to use eminent domain should the negotiations be unsuccessful. If the
Council decides not to exercise the right of eminent domain, then the
developer would be entitled to go to the default position.
Mr. Olivier stated the developer is not comfortable with the City being in
control of whether or not the developer has to pay for the unknown costs of
eminent domain.
.,...--
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Jenson stated the other
alternative would be to continue this item. Under the drafted conditions of
City Council Minutes 20 March 16, 2004
approval, the developer has to enter a reimbursement agreement with the
City before they can move forward with their final map and the agreement
would be clear that the City controls the eminent domain process. Should
the developer feel the costs are too high, the Council would still be in control
of deciding whether or not to move forward with the eminent" domain
process and if the eminent domain process was selected, the developer
would have to bear the costs. She advised the eminent domain process can
be abandoned by the City if the amount determined by the jury is too high
but there would be damages to pay.
Council Member Sniff suggested moving forward with Access Option 5 to
avoid the concerns related to eminent domain.
Council Member Osborne concurred.
Mr. Jonasson advised Condition Nos. 8, 9, and 55 will need to be modified if
Council decides to go with Access Option No.5.
Ms. Jenson noted no action is needed on Public Hearing No.1 if the Council
decides to approve Access Option 5 under Public Hearing No.2.
Council Member Henderson noted Access Option 5 is close to what the
developer proposed six months ago.
ACTION ON PUBLIC HEARING NO.2: (see further action on Page 22)
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-(no number assigned as the motion was withdrawn)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT
2003-494, ZONE CHANGE, 2003-115, AND TENTATIVE TRACT MAP
31348 (MADISON DEVELOPMENT, LLC.)
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to adopt Resolution No.
2004-(no number) as submitted.
Council Member Henderson stated she would not support the motion
because she feels the Council has an opportunity to solve a bigger problem
in the area, and the motion doesn't allow the developer to continue trying to
reach an agreement with the property owners.
Council Member Osborne questioned there being any reason to expect the
developer's efforts to be more successful in the next 30 days.
~ - ~ - -
- - - . -- ----
City Council Minutes 21 March 16, 2004
r-- Council Member Perkins stated he cannot support the motion because he
feels it closes the door for any future solving of traffic problems in that area.
,
Mayor Adolph stated he agrees with allowing the opportunity for further
negotiations with City staff present. He indicated he would like to see a
traffic signal at Simon Drive.
Mr. Olivier advised the developer will not sign the reimbursement agreement
referenced by the City Attorney, and commit to an open-ended agreement
wjth an unlimited cost and time process.
Ms. Jenson advised the Council can decide to stay with the drafted
conditions or modify the conditions to allow the developer to go to the fall-
back position after a set time period if negotiations are unsuccessful.
The motion was withdrawn.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARINGS CLOSED.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Ms. Jenson confirmed a conceptual
- vote can be taken to see if there is support for allowing the developer 30
days for negotiations and to move forward with Access Option 5 if the
negotiations are unsuccessful.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Osborne/Henderson to allow
Madison Development 30 days to negotiate with the property owners for
acquisition of the two parcels .on Singing Palms Drive that are necessary to
accomplish Access Option 28 with Access Option 5 being the default option
should negotiations be unsuccessful, and directed the City Manager to
appoint a City staff member to participate in the negotiations to ensure good
faith efforts are being made.
Council Member Perkins questioned it providing any incentive for the
developer to negotiate in good faith.
Motion carried with Council Member Perkins voting NO. MINUTE ORDER
NO. 2004-34.
-
City Council Minutes 22 March 16, 2004
ACTION ON PUBLIC HEARING NO.1:
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-31
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRON-
MENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2004-099.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2004-31 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
It was noted that a correction has been made to the language in the heading
of the draft resolution for the General Plan Amendment.
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-32
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2004-099 TO
ADD A PROGRAM TO THE TRAFFIC AND CIRCULATION ELEMENT TO
ALLOW CERTAIN CIRCULATION IMPROVEMENTS ON AUGMENTED MAJOR
ARTERIALS WITHIN THE CITY.
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.
2004-32 with amended language. Motion carried unanimously.
ACTION ON PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO.2:
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-33
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT
2003-494, ZONE CHANGE, 2003-115, AND TENTATIVE TRACT MAP
31348 (MADISON DEVELOPMENT, LLC.)
It was moved by Council Members Osborne/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.
2004-33 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
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,
City Council Minutes 23 March 16, 2004
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-34
-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2003-094 TO
CHANGE LAND USE DESIGNATIONS FROM COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL
(CC) AND MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (MDR) TO LOW DENSITY
RESIDENTIAL (LDR) (MADISON DEVELOPMENT, LLC.)
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.
2004-34 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to take up
Ordinance No. 405 by title and number only and waive further reading.
Motion carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 405
AN ORDINANCE OF" THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING ZONE CHANGE 2003-115 FROM COMMUNITY
COMMERCIAL (CC) AND MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (MDR) TO LOW
DENSITY RESIDENTIAL (RL).
-
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to introduce Ordinance
No. 405 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff,
Mayor Adolph
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-35
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31348 TO SUBDIVIDE
37.72:t: ACRES INTO 73 LOTS (MADISON DEVELOPMENT, LLC.)
It was moved by Council Members HendersonlSniff to adopt Resolution No.
2004-35 as amended (modifying Condition No.9 to read, lIthe developer
shall meet in good faith for a 30-day period in an attempt to acquire the two
lots necessary for the Simon Drive intersection with a City representative,
- appointed by the City Manager, to participate in the negotiations, and if after
the 30-day time period the developer is unsuccessful in negotiating a deal to
acquire those properties, the default position, identified as Access Option 5,
City Council Minutes 24 March 16, 2004
will be implemented in place of Access Option 2A."; modifying Para9.@Ph 2
of Condition No. 8(A)(1) to read, JJ.....extension of Simon Drive or
Washington Street entrance as described under Access Option 5.";
modifying Condition No. 55(A)( 1 )(a) to read, JJ.. ..extension of Simon Drive or
Washington Street entrance as described under Access Option 5....."; adding
a new condition to read, JJlf Access Option 2A is ultimately rejected and the
developer IS required to implement Access Option 5, the following
improvements shall be required to be installed by the developer: 1) design
and install street improvements on Washington Street including a 200-foot
long deceleration lane; remove existing pavement that currently provides
ingress to neighborhood and install a landscaped area with a bike path
connecting the Washington Street sidewalk to the Highland Palms
neighborhood; remove the existing Washington Street sidewalk and install an
eight-foot wide meandering sidewalk along the Washington Street frontage
adjacent to Tract 31348; reconfigure the turn pocket on Washington Street
to prevent traffic exiting Tract 31 348 from gaining access to the left-turn
pocket at Simon Drive; post a $50,000 bond to ensure payment of any
traffic calming improvements on Highland Palms Drive that may be needed to
control traffic speeds with the bond to be released in whole, or in part, after
a five-year period if no improvements are needed; and provide a rear gate for
ingress and egress on Highland Palms."; and adding a new condition to read,
JJln the event Access Option 5 is implemented, the conditions related to the
Simon Drive signalized intersection will be deleted and the emergency vehicle
gate requirements at the Singing Palms and Highland Palms entrances will be
deleted." Motion carried unanimously.
3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS TO: 1)
CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL
IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2003-490; AND 2)
TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31816, A 26-LOT SUBDIVISION ON 7.75+
ACRES ON THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF WESTWARD HO DRIVE AND
ROADRUNNER LANE. APPLICANT: MATTCO CONSTRUCTION.
Planning Manager Orci presented the staff report, and Associate Planner
Nesbit gave a brief overview of the project.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Nesbit confirmed the
sidewalk width on Roudel Lane has been reduced to five feet.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Orci clarified the sidewalk on
Westward Ho Drive will be extended beyond this development at some point
in the future.
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City Council Minutes 25 March 16, 2004
In response to Mayor Adolph, Assistant City Engineer Speer explained the
-
sidewalk on Roudel Lane tapers at the existing neighborhood because that
part of the street was constructed with 28 feet between curbs, and the new
, section will be 36 feet between curbs.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 10:50 p.m.
Tom Fee, 46-325 Roadrunner Lane, asked about the sidewalk stopping at
Lot 23 on Roadrunner Lane, and if there will be a retaining wall on that
street. He also voiced opposition to the potential closing of Fiesta Drive.
Council Member Henderson noted the existing homes were not constructed
to allow for a future sidewalk.
Mr. Nesbit stated the need for a retaining wall will be determined when a
grading plan is submitted.
There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED at 10:53 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-36
-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2003-490
FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31816 (MA TTCO CONSTRUCTION).
It was moved by Council Members HendersonlSniff to adopt Resolution No.
2004-36 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
RESOLUTION NO. 2004-37
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 31816, DIVIDING 7.75
ACRES INTO 26 SINGLE FAMILY LOTS AND OTHER COMMON LOTS
(MATTCO CONSTRUCTION).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2004-37 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
- STUDY SESSION - None
,
City Council Minutes 26 March 16, 2004
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Animal Campus Commission - Council Member Perkins stated he has concerns
about the funding for the new facility, and requested to be removed as the City's
representative on the Commission. Council directed staff to place this matter on
the April 6, 2004 agenda.
Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention & Visitors Authority - Council Member
Henderson stated the final audit results are expected in June, and a committee has
been formed to review T AC' s involvement with the Authority.
Riverside County Desert Library Zone Advisory Board - Council Member
Henderson reported the Board met for the first time in a year to discuss potential
impacts on library funding. She indicated a contingency has been set aside in case
library funding is impacted by the State budget.
SunLine Transit Agency/SunLine Services Group - Mayor Adolph reported the
General Manager position has been declined by the first person on the list and
negotiations have begun with the second person on the list.
Mayor Adolph reported the Mayors and City Managers met with local Legislators
regarding issues related to the State's financial situation, and another meeting is
anticipated in a few months.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
4-A. REPORT ON CONSTRUCTION HOURS.
A fter a brief discussion, Council concurred not to change the allowed
construction hours.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
Mayor Adolph referenced a letter from Bernard Debonne regarding potential
annexation into La Guinta.
Council Member Sniff suggested the City move forward with the annexation
requests if a second meeting with the City of Coach ell a cannot be scheduled. He
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;,
City Council Minutes 27 March 16, 2004
also commented on the need to send letters to the residents requesting annexation
-
. to inform them of the City's actions to-date.
Council Member Osborne commented that some of the Council Members from
Coachella have indicated to him that they want to meet again with La Quinta
representatives.
In response to Council Member Henderson, City Manager Genovese confirmed he
has discussed a second meeting with Coachella's City Manager, and expects a
meeting will be scheduled.
Council .Member Henderson noted the County receives tax increment monies for
that area because it's in their redevelopment project area, and it would not be a
financial gain for La Quinta. She commented on the possibility of setting up
community facilities districts for the property owners to accept an assessment fee.
She suggested a study session be scheduled to discuss the issue.
City Manager Genovese noted the property owners in the area may not support
annexation once they realize their costs for infrastructure, police, fire, and lighting
and landscaping.
r-- Council Member Henderson suggested finding out what mechanisms exist first, and
then hiring a consultant as a special project if Council determines they want more
financial information.
Council concurred to refer Mr. Debonne's letter to staff.
* * * * * * * * * *
In response to Council Member Sniff, City Manager Genovese confirmed the City
has been approached by CV AG regarding the housing finance proposal but staff is
. waiting to see how the other cities respond.
r--
City Council Minutes 28 March 16, 2004
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members
Henderson/Sniff to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
~ß.~
_/
JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
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