2004 05 04 CC Minutes
LA QUINT A CITY COUNCIL
- MINUTES
MAY 4, 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 real property negotiator, T om Hartung, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of a portion of the parcel located
at 54-001 Madison Street. Property Owner/Negotiator: Nextel/Cory Autrey.
- 2. Conference with Agency's real property negotiator, Mark Weiss, pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of real property located at
78-950 Highway 111. Property Owner/Negotiator: Chris Moore.
3. Conference with Agency's real property negotiator, Timothy R. Jonasson,
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms
and conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of real property located
46-200. Jefferson Street, APN: 649-090-002. Property Owner/Negotiator:
Elaine Louise Culp and Robert Culp.
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).
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Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
City Council Minutes 2 May 4, 2004
PUBLIC COMMENT
Ilene Schimmel and Cris Romero, representing the Retired Seniors Volunteer
Program, presented a symbolic check for in-kind services in the amount of
$145,720.
Council expressed their appreciation for the program.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Mayor Adolph requested Consent Item No.2 be moved to Business Item No.7.
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Adolph presented a proclamation to Indio Police Commander Mark Miller,
representing the Desert Mental Health organization, in honor of Mental Health
Month.
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE - None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to approve the City
Council Minutes of April 20, 2004, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1 . APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED MAY 4, 2004.
2. SEE BUSINESS ITEM NO.7.
3. APPROVAL OF SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO RECEIVE BIDS
FOR THE CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE LIGHTING MAINTENANCE CONTRACT,
PROJECT NO. 2004-04.
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City Council Minutes 3 May 4, 2004
4. APPROVAL OF SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO RECEIVE BIDS
- FOR THE CITYWIDE LANDSCAPE. MAINTENANCE CONTRACT, PROJECT
NO. 2004-05.
5. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT (PSA) WITH
LANDMARK CONSULTANTS, INC. FOR INSPECTION AND TESTING
SERVICES FOR THE CITY LIBRARY, PROJECT NO. 2000-06.
6. APPROVAL OF 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.
7. APPROVAL OF CITY COUNCIL GOALS.
8. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR' DAMAGES FILED BY ALAN SEMAN, DATE OF
LOSS: FEBRUARY 17, 2004.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve
the Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with the exception of
Item No.2. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-47.
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. BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONTINUED CONSIDERATION OF A RELOCATION PLAN FOR THE VISTA
DUNES AFFORDABLE FAMILY HOUSING PROJECT.
Council concurred to consider this item at 7:00 p.m. as requested in the
staff report.
2. CONSIDERATION OF COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION WORK PLAN
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2004/2005.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
. Council Member Henderson stated after listening to the Commission tapes,
she feels some of the Commissioners are uncertain about their
responsibilities on the Commission. In referencing Page 4 of the staff report,
she questioned how much "analyzing" the Commission does of the
programs, and voiced concern about including it in the Work Plan unless
- defined differently ~ She also asked about their involvement with the Parks
and Recreation Master Plan and the Trails Master Plan.
City Council Minutes 4 May 4, 2004
Ms. Horvitz stated the term lIanalyze" was taken directly from the Municipal
Code. She added the Commissioners review the programs each month but
do not discuss if each one is meeting the needs of the community. She
stated the Commission has reviewed the Parks and Recreation Master Plan
but does not do it annually, nor have they reviewed the Trails Master Plan.
Council Member Henderson stated she is uncomfortable including the level of
tasks that are not being done.
Ms. Horvitz indicated lias these projects become available" can be added to
the language instead of denoting annual reviews.
Council Member Henderson stated she feels the Commission should review
and provide input on the Trails Master Plan. She also feels it's unrealistic for
the Commissioners to attend some of the functions listed under IlLiaison to
the Community." She understands the School Board meetings are attended
by one of the Commissioners but has never heard a report back from those
meetings. She also feels it's unfortunate the Commissioners were not aware
they can attend the Mayor's Luncheon.
Ms. Horvitz stated an item can be added on the Community Services
Commission agenda for the Commissioners to report when they do attend
other meetings.
Council Member Henderson suggested finding out if CV AG has put together
a manual of all safety, mental health, and self-help agencies, and getting
copies for the Commissioners.
Council Member Perkins voiced concern that the Commission may lose sight
of individual projects with such a large menu of tasks.
Council Member Osborne stated if any of the Commissioners are attending
the School Board meetings, he would like to see a summary of what is
discussed because those meetings are held the same day as the Council
meetings.
Council Member Sniff questioned why the Commissioners would participate
in the American Red Cross, CV AG, and La Ouinta Fire Department.
Ms. Horvitz indicated the task is to encourage community involvement in
these activities, which can be featured in the Chamber newsletter and
Community Services brochure.
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City Council Minutes 5 May 4, 2004
Council Member Sniff questioned how productive the Commission can be
r-- with this many tasks given the limited amount of hours they meet. He also
asked how they monitor programs.
Ms. Horvitz noted by attending the leisure programs, the Commissioners can
monitor the attendance and content and ask participants if the program is
meeting their needs. She stated some have indicated an interest in the
Vector Control District. The Commission has hosted public meetings for the
skate park and the, La Quinta Community Park.
Council Member Sniff stated he feels the Commission should cut back on
some of the tasks and concentrate on doing a few things well. He
referenced the possibility of merging the Community Services Commission
and Cultural Arts Commission.
Mayor Adolph suggested changing "analyze" to "review," and stated he
hopes the Commission reviews the last picnic/concert to see what can be
done to make it better and get better attendance in the future.
Council Member Perkins agreed with considering the possibility of merging
the two Commissions.
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Mayor Adolph noted staff can review that and bring it back to Council.
Council Member Henderson stated she feels there are clearly some activities
that both Commissions should be involved in. She suggested sending the
Work Plan back to the Commission for revision based on the discussion
today. She noted changing "analyze" to "review" would require an
amendment to the City Code.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to refer the
Community Services Commission Work Plan back to the Commission for
revision. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-48.
3. CONSIDERATION OF PURCHASING AN INFLATABLE SHELL FOR THE CIVIC
CENTER CAMPUS AMPHITHEATER.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Council Member Sniff stated he does not support purchasing the inflatable
shell. He also feels the Commission should have asked staff to research
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Council's interest in this before spending so much time on this.
City Council Minutes 6 May 4, 2004
Council Member Perkins stated he doesn't feel the shell is sufficient to
withstand local winds.
Council Member Henderson stated she feels the Commission has a tendency
to accept something less than what they truly want but that will have to
wait until after the library and museum. Although the shell would be inflated
only on a temporary basis, she feels it would damage the aesthetics of the
Civic Center Campus. She also feels it would be too hot in the summer and
not accommodate enough people. She indicated she could not support the
purchase, and encouraged the Commission to be patient until the City can
provide a covered amphitheater.
Council concurred.
No action was taken.
4. CONSIDERATION OF A TEMPORARY ART DONATION AND ACCEPTANCE
AGREEMENT WITH MARY MOLINE FOR AN ORIGINAL NORMAN
ROCKWELL PAINTING.
Community Services Director Horvitz presented the staff report.
Council Member Perkins stated he feels temporary art loans put the City in
an awkward position.
Council Member Henderson noted the art loan program was approved by
Council. She further noted the City recently purchased an art piece that was
on loan to the City but she doesn't feel Ms. Moline will be interested in
trying to sell this painting., She voiced excitement about having the painting
at City Hall, and the need to inform the public once it is in place.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Andrea Gassman, of the Cultural Arts
Commission, state,d the oil painting is approximately 4 feet by 3 feet, and
Ms. Moline is willing to deliver it to City Hall.
Council Member Sniff indicated he is not enamored with the painting, and is
not sure where it would be placed at City Hall.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Ms. Horvitz stated the estimated
value of the painting is $400,000, and the location would need to be
accessible to the public.
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City Council Minutes 7 May 4, 2004
Council Member Osborne stated. he feels it's an exciting opportunity but is
- concerned about having a secure place to display it.
Mayor Adolph noted there have been concerns in the past about having
valuable art on loan at City Hall. He noted there will be more locations for
art once the library is built.
In response to Council Member Henderson, City Attorney Jenson advised the
donor agrees in the loan agreement to bear responsibility for any loss or
damage to the painting and to provide insurance. The donor also has the
right to cancel the loan agreement if she does not approve of the location.
She is comfortable that the City is protected in the agreement against any
liability concerns.
Council Member Henderson noted the Council should let the Commission
know if it's no longer interested in having an art loan program.
Council Member Osborne stated he feels this is an opportunity for the City to
have a great piece of art without any risk.
Council Member Perkins stated he would support placing it in the library
- when it is completed but not in City Hall.
Ms. Horvitz stated Ms. Moline has made it clear that she does not want the
painting displayed at the library.
Mayor Adolph noted some of the art pieces at City Hall will probably be
moved to the library when it's built.
Council Member Henderson voiced concern about the painting not being
available at that time. She asked if Ms. Moline has reviewed the agreement,
to which Ms. Horvitz responded, "No."
In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Jenson confirmed the agreement
does not preclude the donor from filing a claim against the City but the
contract is clear that she accepts full responsibility if the painting is lost or
damaged. She recommended the donor's acceptance of the location be in
writing.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Osborne to
approve the Temporary Art Donation and Acceptance Agreement with Ms.
- Mary Moline for the original Norman Rockwell painting entitled "The letter"
for a period of one year. Motion carried with Council Members Perkins and
Sniff voting NO. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-49.
City Council Minutes 8 May 4, 2004
5. CONSIDERATION OF SELECTION OF A VOTING DELEGATE TO THE LEAGUE
OF CALIFORNIA CITIES SPECIAL GENERAL ASSEMBLY MEETING, MAY 13,
2004.
There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the
City Clerk's office.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to appoint
Council Member Henderson as the voting delegate for the special meeting of
the League of California Cities General Assembly on May 13, 2004. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-50.
6. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE.
ORDINANCE NO. 406
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A,
CALIFORNIA, DELETING CODE SECTION 8.02.100 (GRADING AND
EXCAVATING) AND ADDING CHAPTER 8.80 (GRADING).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No.
406 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff,
Mayor Adolph
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
7. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL TO AWARD A CONTRACT TO
CONSTRUCT THE TRAFFIC SIGNAL LED LAMP RETROFIT, PROJECT NO.
2004-02.
This item was moved from the Consent Calendar, and there were no
changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City Clerks office.
Mayor Adolph referenced several questions brought up by him at a previous
meeting, and indicated that he still has not received answers.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Public Works Director Jonasson advised both
the module and wiring have to be changed for LEDs, and he is not sure the
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City Council Minutes 9 May 4, 2004
County is qualified to make those changes as part of their on-going
- maintenance. He understands the existing 26 traffic signals may have LEOs
on the mast arms but not the pedestrian crossings. He indicated the traffic
signals had to be inventoried to determine which ones have LED lamps.
Mayor Adolph stated his questions were due to his concerns about the cost.
He is not opposed to it if it's more safety conscious and will save the City
money.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Sniff to approve a
contract in the amount of $1 33,840 to Republic Electric to construct the
Traffic Signal LED Lamp Retrofit Project No. 2004-02. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-51.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF OPTIONS FOR LIBRARY SERVICES.
City Manager Genovese presented the staff report.
- Council Member Henderson asked if Council gives direction for staff to
negotiate with the County, will that include staff coming back with
information on the no/low subvention and how that would be affected.
Mr. Genovese stated staff would probably not investigate any further the
no/low property tax issues as it relates to a legal analysis but would
investigate no/low property taxes because of the ERAF shifts. He advised if
the issue enters litigation, it would probably be extensive and time
consuming because of differences in the opinions of the two legal counsels.
Council Member Henderson asked if the MOU addresses what happens if the
State budget impacts the County and trickles down to the City.
Mr. Genovese indicated staff can include a discussion of backfill
opportun¡ties in the negotiations.
In response to Council Member Sniff, City Attorney Jenson advised IIno/low"
is a commonly-used term but to her knowledge it's not used in the
legislation.
- Council Member Sniff referenced a statement in the staff report regarding
the uncertainty of using redevelopment pass-through funds for library
operations.
City Council Minutes 10 May 4, 2004
Ms. Jenson stated it is a very technical question under Redevelopment law
as to what the character of funds would be that would go to the City as
opposed to the library district. It's a statutory interpretation and the City
and County took opposite positions on the interpretation.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Genovese stated the amount of
property taxes paid this year for library services will not be available until the
end of the year. He noted the amount should be significantly higher than
last year's because of growth. He explained the additional 15% and 19%
was retained by the County for library services outside of La Guinta.
Council Member Sniff questioned why other cities in the library district get
100% of the funding and La Ouinta only gets 81 %.
Mr. Genovese stated in-lieu of the percentages that the City was providing to
the County, the County transferred $590,000. The City has received
$400,000 to date, and the final payment will be received in the next fiscal
year. He confirmed the payment equates to the 1 9 %.
Council Member Osborne noted it's difficult to analyze and compare the
options without knowing how much the City can fund without an MOU with
the County. He understands under the potential MOU the City will receive
100% funding.
Ms. Genovese confirmed that is the goal but explained there may be a
backfill issue similar to the $590,000.
Council Member Osborne stated he would like to wait until there is more
information on how much the City can fund.
Mr. Genovese indicated a legal analysis indicating whether or not the City
would be successful in court as it relates to the use of redevelopment
monies, is needed before staff can provide the numbers.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr.Genovese stated a decision to
withdraw would probably need to be made in September 'in order to make
the deadline for notifying all the appropriate agencies.
Mayor Adolph asked how often the City receives a report on the
expenditures for library operations.
Management Analyst Casillas indicated the reports are received upon
request.
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City Council Minutes 11 May 4, 2004
Mayor Adolph asked if the County is agreeable to working with the City to
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apply for grants. Mr. Genovese indicated there are no grants available at this
time but believes the County's expertise would be accessed if funding
becomes available.
Gary Christmas, County Librarian, stated quarterly reports on the allocation
of compensation are provided to each city but the overhead expenses are not
provided as often. He believes the reports are provided through the Desert
Library Advisory Zone.
Mayor Adolph suggested the reports be sent to specific staff at the City.
Mr. Christmas confirmed the State is not providing new grants for
construction at this time.
Council Member Henderson stated using a fixed formula of 4% growth, the
City will have received 103.2% of its library funds at the end of the current
2004/2005 MOU, and at 12% growth, the City will have received 102%.
She doesn't feel La Ouinta residents are being jeopardized in regard to library
services, and noted libraries in some other areas would have closed if La
Ouinta had not helped to subsidize them. She supports directing staff to
- negotiate an MOU with the County, and noted the Council can always adopt
a resolution to withdraw at a later date.
Council Member Perkins stated he believes the current system provides more
support for the City than trying to do it alone, and supports pursuing an
MOU.
Council Member Osborne stated he agrees with looking at another MOU, but
would still like to have more information on the alternatives.
Council Member Sniff agreed with negotiating with the County and having
staff come back with material to make a comprehensive decision.
Mayor Adolph stated he doesn't object to helping other community libraries,
such as Mecca, and believes the County is more in tune with providing
\ library services to the City. He is willing to work with the County but wants
to make sure the City is getting the major benefit of its contribution. He
feels the other cities should be willing to step up and help the community
libraries that are in need of assistance.
'- Council Member Sniff stated he would like to see both options analyzed to
enable Council to make the best decision.
City Council Minutes 1 2 May 4, 2004
Council Member Henderson noted some of the answers might not be gained
without going to court. She's not sure how much information staff can
bring back.
Council Member Perkins indicated he is looking more for an outline, and not
a legal interpretation.
Mayor Adolph stated he feels there's no reason to go any further if staff is
able to negotiate a good MOU with the County.
Mr. Genovese stated staff will move forward on negotiations with the
County. Additionally, they will do a complete legal and financial impact
analysis as it relates to withdrawing from the County system, the 1 997
legislation, and in regard to the no/low property tax implications.
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING FUNDING OPTIONS FOR LANDSCAPE AND
LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-1 .
Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report.
Brian Jewitt, of Muni Financial, reviewed the following options for recouping
park maintenance costs or raising assessments to cover maintenance costs
within the right-of-way: Special Taxes/Mello Roos Community Facilities
District; Assessment Districts; and User Fees. He suggested reviewing other
City fees, such as application fees, to see if they can be increased. He
noted an increase in the Landscape & Lighting District Assessment would
require a complete analysis but another option would be to overlay a second
1972 Act District on top of the current District.
Council Member Sniff asked if the Landscape & Lighting Assessment District
can be divided to have a specific assessment for City parks.
Mr. Jonasson stated the parks maintenance cost for 2003/2004 IS
$350,000, and that includes only a partial year for the La Quinta Park.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Jewitt stated neighborhood
parks can be included in assessment districts, as well as partial maintenance
costs of community parks if there is some special benefit.
Council Member Henderson noted the City was unsuccessful in getting a
public safety assessment passed.
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City Council Minutes 1 3 May 4, 2004
Mr. Jewitt commented on the importance of educating the public on the
- need, and stated he is seeing a greater interest In fire protection
assessments by cities because of ERAF shifts.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Jewett stated Transient
Occupancy Taxes (TOT) are usually simple-majority General Taxes that
generally go into the General Fund.
Council Member Osborne noted the City fees have not been updated for
about eight years, and asked how the 1995 assessment was calculated.
Mr. Jonasson stated the assessment was based on right-of-way costs and
parks were not intended to be included.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Jewitt stated police, fire, and
street lighting can be combined in a special tax assessment.
Mayor Adolph commented on the timing being bad to consider adding an
assessment.
Council Member Henderson noted a general tax can't be done for two years
but a special tax could be done in November.
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In response to Council Member Henderson, Community Development
Director Herman confirmed the City plan check and application fees have not
been updated since 1 995.
Council Member Sniff suggested having staff come back with positive
options, such as putting public safety and lighting and landscaping together.
C,ity Manager Genovese stated staff can also come back with information on
a utility users tax. He indicated Developer Assessment Districts are
generally done on new subdivisions and most of the subdivisions have
already been approved but direction has previously been given to consider
, them in any annexations.
Council Member Sniff voiced opposition to considering a utility users tax.
Council concurred.
Council recessed to and until 7:00 P.M.
7:00 P.M.
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City Council Minutes 14 May 4, 2004
PUBLIC COMMENT'
Michelle Hill, 79-620 Tom Fazio Lane, spoke regarding insufficient parking in the
Village near Old Town and construction trucks using the parking. spaces on A venida
La Fonda. She commented on the need for interim crosswalks and larger signs for
~he Village parking lot, and indicated the Old Town businesses are willing to pay for
larger signs. She asked that the parking lot sprinklers be adjusted to come on at
night instead of during the day, and inquired about the status of the Desert Club
parking. She further requested some consideration be given to using police bike
patrol units in the area for security, and that these issues be resolved before next
season.
Mayor Adolph stated the Public Works Director and Police Chief will contact her
about these issues.
Council Member Sniff suggested referring this to staff for short-term resolutions as
soon as possible.
PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Council Members presented art awards to the following students of
Truman Elementary School whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall:
AbdelSalam Abdelhalim Hailee Diaz Aaron Jaraczewski
Silidonio Acosta Victoria Diaz Renne Jimenez
Genesis Acosta Donoman DiGrandi Kristina Jorgenson
Augusta Alexander Eric Dominguez Ana Juarez
Jewel Arnce Dillon Dominguez Caitlin Katz
Melissa Becerra Joshua Duran Jane Katz
Kirsten Bishop Amanda Enriquez Danielle King
Amanda Cardinal Rikki Marie Esquivel Kimberly Licca
Steven Carrillo Stephanie Esquivel Breann Lopez
Abraham Centeno Jonathan Flores lriana Lopez
Jose Clavijo Emily Gastelum Monzevrat Loza
Abby Collins Jordan Gatti Brian Lule
Çolt Cope Zulema Gaxiola Aime Luna
Teagan Cordell Katelynn Gilbert Sara Madueno
Brittany Cugley Amanda Gonzalez Dominique Martinez
Michael DeAnda Kayli Grace Ismael Martinez
Dominic DeAnda Michael Gustin Anel Mendez
Bailey DeGroot Ignacio Gutierrez Jordan Montoya
Gabriel De La Torre Denise Guzman Carla Munoz
Dalton Deuel Isabella Houg Treasure Nunez
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City Council Minutes 15 May 4, 2004
Ronely Ocampo Stevie Rose Justin Tapia
r-- Rory O'Shaughnessy Peyton Ross Latisha Thompson
Jacob Perez Tony Ruiz Alex Valdivia-Hidalgo
. Kenya Perezgil Anthony Shields Shae Van Buskirk
Justin Poole Kate Siebuhr Brianna Velasquez
Catalina Price Charles Silva Becka Villareal
Robbie Ralph Malia Smith Tiffany White
Luis Alexis Ramirez Hailey Stanley Bree Williams
Ysel Ramos Remington Steele Kelsey Wood
Ki~rsten Ringlstetter David Tamez Anicia Woods
Donovan Romero Cameron Tan
PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
BUSINESS SESSION. . . . . . . . . . . . . . continued
1 . CONTINUED CONSIDERATION OF A RELOCATION PLAN FOR THE VISTA
DUNES AFFORDABLE FAMILY HOUSING PROJECT.
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Consultant Frank Spevacek presented the staff report.
.
Eric Frankson and Corina Pena (Spanish translator), representing the Vista
Dunes Action Committee, stated some residents have received their offers
with some being fair and some containing mistakes. He understands the
remaining offers should be received by the end of next week. It is the
residents' understanding, that they can come before the Council if their
needs are not met, and that they will receive at least an equal home if not
better. One of the main concerns is the number of people per unit because
five or six people cannot live in a two-bedroom. The residents feel they are
basically at the mercy of the City but will come back to the Council if their
needs are not addressed.
(Unidentified speaker from audience) - indicated the offer he received is not
fair.
Mr. Frankson indicated the speaker will be talking with Kathy Wooley, of
Overland Pacific and Cutler, who has promised to review each case.
Mr. Spevacek stated 41 settlement proposals have been approved or
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delivered, and some have been rejected because the residents want
City Council Minutes 16 May 4, 2004
additional funds. He indicated they are ready to get into discussions where
some feel circumstances have been overlooked.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Spevacek stated the proposed timeframe
is to start construction by November 2004 and have the new homes in place
by September 2005 before school starts. However, the residents cannot be
displaced until new residences are found.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Spevacek stated the displaced
residents will have first priority in moving into the new project or any other
Agency housing project. He indicated no construction will begin until all of
the residents have been relocated.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Spevacek stated a plan
needs to be worked out for each family.
Council Member Sniff asked how mistakes in offers will be dealt with, and if
there's any flexibility in the plan.
Mr. Spevacek stated the first step will be to find out why the resident feels a
mistake exists since each offer has been put together according to the
guidelines in the relocation plan and Redevelopment law, and then there will
be discussions on how to make adjustments to facilitate the resident's
needs. He indicated the plan provides for a three or four-tier process.
Disputes will be reviewed by the Community Development Director, and if
not resolved, the dispute will go to a committee consisting of the Executive
Director and Assistant Executive Director, and then to the Agency.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Kathy Wooley, of Overland Pacific and
Cutler, indicated the number of bedrooms for each family is based on State
occupancy standards, and one of the letters sent to an overcrowded family
is being revised. Approximately one-third of those who have received offers
feel the offers are fair, and she is looking at the others to reassess their
needs. The figures in the entitlement letters are based on a schedule and a
benchmark to work from. She added the law requires a minimum notice to
vacate of 90 days. Ongoing research is being done to locate housing for the
residents, including houses for sale for those residents who wish to purchase
a home. Special needs for handicapped residents will also be addressed.
She indicated Overland will be available to the residents until the relocation
process has been completed.
Council Member Osborne asked if relocation laws related to the closing of a
mobile home park will apply in this situation.
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City Council Minutes 17 May 4, 2004
Mr. Spevacek stated the laws could apply if someone elects not to move.
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Mayor Adolph stated it's up to the City's consultant to work out the details
for each family at this time but noted the residents can come back to Council
if necessary.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve
the Relocation Plan for the Vista Dunes Affordable Family Housing Project,
and authorize the Executive Director to submit the Relocation Plan to the
State Department of Housing and Community Development. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-52.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
,
CV AG Human & Community Resources Committee - Council Member Osborne
reported the Committee is still working on the child obesity issue, and nutrition for
families.
Annexation Ad Hoc Committee - Council Member Sniff indicated the discussions
with Coachella have been very positive, and a suggestion has been made for the
,.- legal counsels to review the legalities of exchanging available information. He
commented on the need to work with the County on a pass-through agreement if
annexation happens.
Council Member Henderson stated the Municipal Service Review (MSR) for the
southeast area is expected to be done by the end of the year but the bigger
challenge will be how to mitigate the costs. The MSR information will play heavily
into the application for sphere of influence increase and potential annexation.
Council Member Sniff stated the Coachella representatives indicated they would
feel comfortable using Jackson Street as a boundary.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Community Development Director Herman
confirmed letters have been sent to the property owners requesting annexation into
La Ouinta, and he will provide Council with copies of the letter.
Council Member Henderson stated she feels the issue will come down to financing,
and noted assessment districts placèd on new developments in annexation areas
can later be voted out.
Mayor Adolph stated he believes the property owners will have to assume the
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responsibility of the infrastructure and lighting and landscape costs.
City Council Minutes 18 May 4, 2004
* * * * * * * * * *
C. V. Mosquito Abatement & Vector Control District - Council Member Perkins
reported they are waiting on final approval of the expansion plans, and asked that
consideration of his reappointment to the Board be placed on a future agenda.
* * * * * * * * * *
Desert Resorts Regional Airport Authority - Council Member Osborne stated they
are working to raise funds for the air show in November, and waiting for approval
on the name change to Jackie Cochran Regional Airport.
* * * * * * * * * *
Riverside County Transportation Commission - Council Member Henderson
indicated the Commission will work on master planning their agenda for next year
during the retreat that begins Thursday.
Council Member Osborne asked if the local overpasses are still on track.
Council Member Henderson stated they are being held up by adoption of the Multi-
Species Habitat Plan.
City Manager Genovese indicated adoption of the' Multi-Species Habitat Plan is
being partly held up by the Joshua Hills land purchase issue.
Community Development Director Herman stated the EIR should be distributed in
July.
* * * * * * * * * *
Sun Line Transit Agency/Sunline Servic~s Group - Mayor Adolph reported the
Agency has hired a new general manager. The taxi companies have also requested
regulation of their services be placed under CV AG or the City of Palm Springs
instead of SunLine, and the Taxi Committee has agreed if the taxi companies cah
get another agency to take over the regulatory duties.
* * * * * * * * * *
CV AG Executive Committee -,- In response to Council Member Sniff, Mayor Adolph
stated the Committee voted to move forward on payment of the Fire Ant program.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
City Council Minutes 19 May 4, 2004
All other reports were noted and filed.
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, DEPARTMENT REPORTS - None
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
Mayor Adolph noted th~ City's police officers are referred to as La Ouinta Police as
well as Riverside County Sheriffs, and suggested determining which name to use in
City correspondence, press releases, etc.
After a brief discussion, the consensus. was to use La Ouinta Police and to
communicate that information to staff.
* * * * * * * * * *
Mayor Adolph suggested getting a cost est~mate to underground the utility wites
over Jefferson Street between Westward Ho Drive and Fiesta Drive since the
undergrounding will not be done as part of the Jefferson Street improvements.
- Council concurred to direct staff to come back with cost estimates.
..
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne
to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
~-d.~
JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk
City of La Ouinta, California
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