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2004 12 21 CC Minutes \ - LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL í MINUTES i DECEMBER 21, 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 - None Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency to and until the hour of3:00 p.m. -; 3:00 P.M. - Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT - None CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA - Confirmed ANNOUNCEMENTS - None PRESENT A TIONS - None WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None APPROVAL OF MINUTES - MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Hen~erson approve the City Council Minutes of December 7, 2004, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. City Council Minutes 2 December 21, 2004 CONSENT CALENDAR 1 . APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED DECEMBER 21, 2004. , 2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED OCTOBER 31,2004. 3. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES REPORT DA TED OCTOBER 31, 2004. 4. APPROVAL OF THE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY. 5. APPROVAL OF ANNUAL CONTINUING DISCLOSURE FOR THE CITY OF LA QUINTA 2000-1 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2004. 6. APPROVAL OF 'ANNUAL DISTRICT INFORMA TION $HEETSFORTHE CITY OF LA QUINTA ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NOS. 92-1 AND 97-1 FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2004. . 7. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FILED BY TYLER THOMPSON - DA TE , . OF LOSS: AUGUST 18, 2004. 8. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FILED BY MICHAEL MCKEEVER - DATE OF LOSS: SEPTEMBER '28, 2004. 9. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE AND AUTHORIZA TION TO ADVERTISE FOR BID THE MADISON STREET PAVEMENT REHABILITATION (AVENUE 50 TO AVENllE52), PROJECT NO.' 2003-07b. 10. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL"OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 30092, PIAZZA SERENA, K. HOVNANIAN FORECAST HOMES, INC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2004-154) 11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMÈNT FOR TRACT MAP 31874-1, STONEFIELD LA QUINTA I, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2004-155) --'-~-"-'-~'-"" ------- "'~------"- ---_.-------_.._--~-- -..---- ----- ~- City Council Minutes 3 December 21 , 2004 ,...-- 12. APPROVAL OF A REQUEST BY THE DEPARTMENT OF INTERIOR BUREAU OF RECLAMATION TO UTILIZE THE CITY COUNCIL CHAMBERS FOR PUBLIC MEETINGS TO DISCUSS THE COACH ELLA V ALLEY RESOURCE PLAN ON FEBRUARY 3, 2005, 10:00 TO 3:00 P.M. 13. APPROV AL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH CREATIVE CONTRACTORS FOR DESIGN/BUILD SERVICES FOR CHILDCARE FACILITY PLAYGROUND IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 2004-08. 14. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 29323-4, ESPLANADE, LENNAR HOMES OF CALIFORNIA, INC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2004-156) 15. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE COUNCIL MEMBER TO ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES REVENUE AND TAXATION COMMITTEE MEETING IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA, JANUARY 21, 2005. 16. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE COUNCIL MEMBER TO ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES ,MAYORS AND COUNCIL - MEMBERS ACADEMY LEADERSHIP INSTITUTE IN SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA, ,JANUARY 12-14, 2005. 17. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 31123-1, LA CANTERA, VISTA LA QUINTA PARTNERS, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2004-157) 18. APPROVAL OF AN APPROPRIATION FOR CLUBHOUSE INVENTORY AND LIQUOR LICENSE FOR SilverRock RESORT. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 10, 11, 14, and 17 being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2004-154 through 2004-157 respectively. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-146. BUSINESS SESSION 1. CONSIDERATION OF APPOINTMENT TO THE LA GUINTA PLANNING - COMMISSION. City Clerk Greek presented the staff report. City Council Minutes 4 December 21, 2004 The following applicants gave brief presentations and background on their qualifications: Edward Alderson Robert Cox James Kemp Ken Napper Mark Weber Ballot No. 1 Council Member Henderson voted for Edward Alderson Council Member Osborne voted for Robert Cox Council Member Perkins voted for Edward Alderson Council Member Sniff voted for Mark Weber Mayor Adolph voted for Edward Alderson MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to accept Mr. Kreiger's resignation on the Planning Commission. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-147. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to appoint Edward Alderson to fill an unexpired term ending ,June 30, 2006" on the Planning Commission Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-148. 2. CONSIDERATION OF OPENING SCHEDULE FOR SilverRock RESORT. Assistant City Manager Weiss presented the staff report. Council Member Perkins stated he is pleased with the progress and glad the ~ delay is not six to eight months. He suggested a soft opening before the grand opening when Arnold Palmer can be available. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Weiss stated staff felt it was appropriate to get Council's authorization for the practice round/training day. Council Member Henderson stated she supports staff's request and would like to provide some latitude so an opportunity to give the golf course some exposure is not missed. Council concurred. . ------'-- -~._---,-- -~ ~ City Council Minutes 5 December 21, 2004 r-- In response to Mayor Adolp.t~, Mr. Weiss stated the infrastructure needs to -. : ." ~t ',,! ~ ;f:t (' ,), i be in place but public play may· be'posšible by mid to late January. In response to Mayor Adolph, Randy Duncan, General Manager and Director of Golf for SilverRock Resort, indicated the golf carts are scheduled for delivery the first week in January.· Mayor Adolph commented on the need to keep golf carts on the golf cart paths until the grass matures. MOTION - It was m~ved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to authorize staff tq work with Palmer Course Design to schedule a grand opening event at SilverRock Resort, and allow limited access to the course by invitation only to selected vendors, media, and contributing contractors for a "practice round/staff training day" prior to the formal opening of the golf course. Council Member Henderson asked if the authorization includes staff latitude for additional opportunities, to which Council Member Sniff responded, lIVes. " - Council Member Perkins inquired about security for the golf course. Mr. Duncan indicated the clubhouse and the tent used to store golf carts will be secured with ADT Security, and motion detectors will be used on the golf course. In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Weiss stated gates are not scheduled to be installed. He stated although there will be perimeter walls and berming, a secure perimeter has not been built around the entire project. Public Works Director Jonasson stated the City will maintain the PM 10 fence until the security system is installed, and noted the large ditches behind the ,berming will make it difficult for unauthorized vehicles to gain access. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-149. 3. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO TITLE 2 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.04 AND ESTABLISHING A WAIVER PROCESS FOR CITY APPEAL FEES. - Building & Safety Director Hartung presented the staff report. " City Council Minutes 6 December 21, 2004 MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to take up Ordinance No. 412 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried unanimously. ORDINANCE NO. 412 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A, CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTION 2.04.115 RELATING TO APPLICATION FOR WAIVER OF CITY APPEAL FEES. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to introduce Ordinance No. 412 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Adolph NOES: None ASST AIN: None ASSENT: None 4. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE. ORDINANCE NO. 410 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 11 .08.005 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO PUBLIC DRINKING AND LIQUOR POSSESSION. It was mòved by Council Members Henderson/Osborne to adopt Ordinance No. 410 on second reading. Mayor Adolph asked if alcohol use other than beer would be allowed in golf carts on the course. City Manager Genovese indicated that would be up to the golf course operator. City Attorney Jenson advised the ordinance deals with the prohibition but the use will be subject to the operator's regulations. Motion carried by the following vote: -~- - -- -...-- City Council Minutes 7 December 21, 2004 ,- AYES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Adolph NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None 5. SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE. ORDINANCE NO. 411 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE OFFICIAL ZONING MAP OF THE CITY, BY REZONING CERTAIN PROPERTY FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL 17/1 TO MEDIUM-HIGH DENSITY RESIDENTIAL AND OFFICE COMMERCIAL TO MEDIUM DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO ALLOW CONSTRUCTION OF A SENIOR . RETIREMENT COMMUNITY (ZONE CHANGE 2003-112 - PACIFIC RETIREMENT SERVICES AND WESTPORT LA QUINTA, L.P.). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Ordinance No. - 411 on second reading. Motion carried by the following vote: A YES: Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Adolph NOES: None ABSTAIN: None ABSENT: None STUDY SESSION 1. DISCUSSION OF RELINQUISHMENT OF HIGHWAY 111 WITHIN THE CITY LIMITS. Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Henderson, Assistant City Engineer Speer stated as the traffic signal industry continues to advance, the upgraded equipment doesn't always communicate with existing equipment. Council Member Perkins stated he has concerns about assuming - responsibility for the traffic controls because the equipment is expensive to replace as it ages. City Council Minutes 8 December 21, 2004 Council Member Sniff voiced the need to be consistent and uniform to provide ease of travel, and referenced the lack of knowledge about what the other cities may do along Highway 111. He agrees there is some benefit to the idea but is not sure this has been thought through. Mr. Jonasson indicated the issue has been discussed at CV AG, and staff is trying to find out if the Council would be interested in considering it. Council Member Sniff asked which cities have taken control of Highway 111 in their jurisdictions. He feels going forward with this may be somewhat premature. Mr. Speer indicated the Cities of Rancho Mirage and Cathedral City have taken control of Highway 111 within their city limits. Council Member Henderson stated she understands Palm Desert and Indian Wells have applied to start the process. In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Jonasson stated the Public Works Director for the City of Rancho Mirage definitely supports it but he doesn't know how Cathedral City feels about it. Council Member Sniff asked if a method has been envisioned to maintain consistency and uniformity. City Manager Genovese noted there is no uniformity now and probably will not be in the future. The City of Indian Wells doesn't want three lanes in each direction and the right-of-way limitations in the City of Indio will not allow three lanes in each direction there. Council Member Sniff asked how the speed limit is determined. Council Member Perkins stated the speed limit is based on traffic flow, and would' continue to be set by the State. He voiced concern about the major expense of clearing the street if the mountain near the Cliff House Restaurant continues to crumble. Council Member Henderson asked about remaining improvements on Highway 111. Mr. Jonasson stated the design phase for widening the remaining portions of Highway 111 is underway but noted other issues, such as driveways for development, will continue to exist. -~ --.----- - ..--...--~ ,- ~ . City Council Minutes 9 December 21, 2004 - Council Member Osborne asked about cost estimates for maintaining Highway 111, and how the relinquishment stipend would, most likely, be paid by CalTrans. Mr. Speer indicated staff can start the process by identifying CalTrans' maintenance costs. As for the stipend, he believes it would be paid in a lump sum. Council Member Osborne pointed out the potential for the City having no out-of-pocket expense since CalTrans would pay the stipend and Measure A money would be available in 2008. Mr. Speer noted CV AG still needs to establish funding mechanisms for this type of maintenance funding. Council Member Osborne asked if CV AG would view Highway 111 in its entirety to provide consistency. Mr. Speer noted the City will not control its own fate on Highway 111 if all the cities except La Quinta accept the relinquishment. - Council Member Osborne suggested entering the study to find out the cost and stipend amount. Council Member Henderson stated the crumbling mountain is the only outstanding issue that concerns her. Mayor Adolph pointed out it appears most of CV AG is buying into the program. Council Member Henderson noted that doesn't mean La Quinta has to.- Mayor Adolph agreed but noted if La Quinta was part of it, the cities would work together from Palm Springs to Indio. Council Member Osborne stated he feels it's worth the study, and it may not cost anything to take it over except for any potential liability exposure with the mountain. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Speer confirmed the CV AG committees have discussed some of the problems cities are having with - CalTrans, such as the encroachment process and CalTrans' response to traffic signal maintenance. As for the rock-fall hazard, he referenced a report forwarded to CalTrans that indicates the rock-fall hazard could cost up to City Council Minutes 10 December 21, 2004 $200,000 to fix. He believes the City would press for that to be part of the relinquishment package. Council Member Sniff agreed with authorizing staff to look into the issue and proceeding as far as they can without making a final decision. In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Jonasson confirmed staff does not anticipate any problems with CalTrans on the upcoming improvements except for their lengthy process. He stated staff will look at cost estimates for maintenance and start non-binding negotiations with CalTrans. REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS CVAG Energy & Environmental Resources - Council Member Sniff reported the Salton Sea Authority has requested support for their North Lake Program. They have applied for $9.5 million of Proposition 50 funds to pursue local pre- implementation restoration projects. In January, the Committee will have presentations from several firms involved with the transfer station and alternate energy technology. Chamber of Commerce Workshop/Information Exchange Committee - Mayor Adolph announced the Chamber has a new logo, and stated they are looking for a new facility since their lease expires next year. He indicated the Chamber expressed a desire for dialogue on this issue, and he recommended they contact the City Manager. C. V. Mosquito and Vector Control District - Council Member Perkins reported the District will be hiring a new assistant manager. Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport Authority - Council Member Osborne stated at their last meeting they discussed problems with the recent air show. He has informed them that Riverside County Economic Development Agency should not have been included with the announcement about SilverRock. He added the airport is looking at the potential of having auto races at the airport. * * * * * * * * * * * * * All other reports were noted and filed. ---'~--'--"'--'--" _... -_.._~- -~ City Council Minutes 11 December 21, 2004 - DEPARTMENT REPORTS City Attorney Jenson reported the California Supreme Court has ruled on the prevailing wage case in favor of Long Beach. They did not, however, address the charter city portion of the issue but instead referenced it as a significant issue that would be left for another day. 3-B. REPORT ON COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION VACANCY. Council directed the City Clerk to advertise the vacancy and to accept appl ications. MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING PARKING IN THE VILLAGE AREA. Mayor Adolph referenced a complaint he received about a recent project being approved in the Village with a reduction in parking requirements. He - stated he realizes the City has backed off on parking requirements in the Village to encourage development but feels a reduction from 46 to 19 parking spaces is a lot. He suggested staff be given some recommendations for future projects. Council Member Perkins suggested limiting the reduction to 1 O°A>. City Manager Genovese stated the Village Commercial District allows for a reduction in the number of parking spaces but there is no strict percentage. Council Member Henderson suggested the guidelines be brought back for review. Mr. Genovese referenced another project that will soon be coming before the Planning Commission and is requesting a reduction in parking requirements. Council Member Osborne questioned why parking requirements would ever go below 50%. Mr. Genovese explained it's been done a few times when a project was adjacent to the downtown parking lot. He stated the City has an "in-lieu" - fee for the Village Parking Fund but it hasn't been required in an effort to encourage development. He noted since development is happening in the City Council Minutes 12 December 21, 2004 Village, there may be a change in philosophy, and the Village Parking Fund could be used to construct a multi-story parking structure. Council Member Sniff commented on the City parking lot being a logical location for a parking structure that could double or triple the parking capacity. In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Genovese advised the three additional buildings for the Old Town development are already included in the approved Specific Plan. Council Member Henderson noted the parking lot at the east end of Old T own is still not open. Council Member Osborne stated Mr. Wells Marvin told him he would be willing to build a parking structure on the City parking lot if the City would give him a 30-year lease. Mr. Genovese noted some of the tenants of Old Town have voiced concern about parking, and eventually this may become an issue wherein the tenants and landowners develop the parking instead of the City. He pointed out the City has1already invested up to $6 million in improvements in the Village. Council recessed to and until 7 :00 P.M. 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT - None PRESENT A TIONS The Mayor expressed appreciation for the number of Boy Scouts in attendance this evening. . City Council Minutes 13 December 21, 2004 - PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS AND AN ORDINANCE FOR: 1) CERTIFICATION OF A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR ENVIRONMENT AL ASSESSMENT 2004-526; 2) GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 2004-103 AND ZONE CHANGE 2004-122 TO REPLACE 159± ACRES OF LAND DESIGNATED VERY-LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL WITH A LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DESIGNATION; 3) GRIFFIN RANCH SPECIFIC PLAN 2004-074 FOR DESIGN GUIDELINES AND DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS FOR 303 RESIDENTIAL UNITS; AND 4) TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32879 TO SUBDIVIDE 199± ACRES INTO 303 RESIDENTIAL LOTS AND OTHER AMENITY LOTS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED ALONG THE SOUTH SIDE OF AVENUE 54, THE EAST SIDE OF MADISON STREET, THE NORTH SIDE OF A VENUE 55 ALIGNMENT, AND % MILE WEST OF MONROE STREET. APPLICANT: TRANSWEST HOUSING. City Manager/Interim Community Development Director Genovese requested the public hearing remain open and continued to January 4, 2005. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to continue - the public hearing for General Plan Amendment 2004-1 03, Zone Change 2004-122, Specific Plan 2004-074, and Tentative Tract Map 32879 for Transwest Housing to January 4, 2005. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-150. 2. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2004-523 ' AND TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32848 FOR THE SUBDIVISION OF 4.02± ACRES INTO 16 SINGLE FAMIL Y LOTS AND MISCELLANEOUS LOTS FOR PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF AVENUE 60 APPROXIMATELY 700 FEET WEST OF MADISON STREET. APPLICANT: R. T. HUGHES CO., LLC. Associate Planner Magaña presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Magaña confirmed staff is requesting the entrance be modified to accommodate emergency vehicles. Council Member Osborne asked for clarification on the A venue 60 - improvements, and parking on the interior street. City Council Minutes 14 December 21, 2004 Mr. Magaña stated the project is conditioned to provide half-width street improvements on the north side of the street and to pave 14 feet on the south side. He indicated parking will be allowed on one side of the interior street. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:08 p.m. Dick Hughes, the applicant, stated he was available to answer questions. There being no other requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:09 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2004-158 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA GUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32848 (R. T. HUGHES CO. LLC). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 2004-158 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. I RESOLUTION NO. 2004-159 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE SUBDIVISION OF 4.02 ± ACRES INTO 16 SINGLE FAMILY LOTS AND MISCELLANEOUS LOTS (TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32848 - R. T. HUGHES CO. LLC). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 2004-159 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. 3. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF RESOLUTIONS OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2004-522 AND TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32397 FOR THE SUBDIVISION OF 26.43± ACRES INTO 74 RESIDENTIAL LOTS AND MISCELLANEOUS LOTS FOR PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE WEST SIDE OF WASHINGTON STREET, NORTH OF LAGUNA DE LA PAZ. APPLICANT: CANYON RIDGE, LLC. Council Member Perkins abstained from participating on this item due to a potential conflict of interest and left the dais. ~4~-~- _....._'-.---~-- - City Council Minutes 15 December 21, 2004 ,...-- Principal Planner Ba2ker presented the staff report. ¡ In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Baker stated the applicant is proposing a new wall with openings along the southern boundary, and it will be brought back to the Planning Commission for approval. He confirmed the developer held several meetings with the Laguna de la Paz residents in an effort to address their concerns. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Baker confirmed the Architecture and Landscape Design Committee has approved the plans as submitted. Council Member Henderson voiced concern about using synthetic rock around tbe perimeter, and stated she would like to have a better "feel" about the product to be used. Council Member Osborne inquired about the height and set~ack of the entry. Mr. Baker stated the maximum height is 20 feet and the average setback is 20 feet. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Baker stated there will be - substantial moving of soil to accommodate the landscape setback with a meandering wall and to achieve the elevations of the lots. Mayor Adolph stated he feels the developer should work with the adjacent property owners to avoid having two walls back to back. He questioned the purpose of pathways going into the retention basin. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:34 p.m. Jim Foxx, 70-600 Cypress Lane, Rancho Mirage, the applicant, explained the pathways into the retention basin are for maintenance and will be gated for maintenance vehicle access only. He indicated the basins will consist of low- maintenance materials. Regarding the synthetic rock, he stated their rock features are the most important feature in their developments, and the synthetic rock they use is difficult to discern from natural rock. Council Member Henderson questioned the light-colored rock shown in the rendering being natural to the area. Mr. Foxx explained the color in the rendering is for presentation only, and the - actual color will be undistinguishable from the rock already on the site. Their goal is to have this rock resemble a spur from the ridgeline. City Council Minutes 16 December 21, 2004 Council Member Henderson stated she was impressed with their project in Rancho Mirage but noted that doesn't mean her automatic approval on this project. She was pleased with the developer's emphasis on matching the existing mountain color. She inquired about their plans for the area adjacent to the residential development to the south. Mr. Foxx stated the existing berm will be removed, and they have told a subcommittee of Laguna de la Paz homeowners that they are willing to remove the existing garden wall, and re-grade the area. They are also willing to incorporate mounding and boulders, and re-Iandscape with drip irrigation the portion that exists on the Laguna de la Paz property. They've provided the subcommittee with a plan for the common property, and the homeowners are deciding how far they want mounding to come out from the common property line toward their back patios. He stated their landscape architect will be recommending a plant palette for the homeowners to consider for their side of the new common wall. Council Member Henderson asked how close they are to working something out with the church at the north end of the property. Mr. Foxx stated the church wants to integrate a new parking facility into their master plan, and will provide this project with access across their property to the future signalized intersection. He confirmed the project is conditioned to participate in the cost of the traffic signal. In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Foxx stated their intent at the entrance is to provide the appearance of driving through a canyon. The rock outcropping will step down rapidly for approximately 50 feet along Washington Street then transition to a meandering wall and a series of rock outcroppings in the parkway. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Foxx stated the synthetic rock will be identical in color to the patina on the rocks in the ridgeline, and existing boulders from the site will be incorporated into the synthetic rock feature, which will be made from molds of actual rocks on the ridgeline. As for the parkway along Washington Street, an average of 20 feet is required for the meandering of the sidewalk. The design of the seven-foot high, slumpstone or stucco wall will come back to the Planning Commission for approval, including the walls at the north and south ends of the property. The project will have artistic steel gates at the main entrance and a temporary emergency access that will be abandoned after the access through the church property is complete. He confirmed the property has sufficient dirt to balance out the site, and stated the distance from the west property line to the mountain varies from zero to 300 feet. He indicated they will not be -- ...-- ..-..-.-....- --~----- ..- ~___ ___ ___.___________. u_ City Council Minutes 17 December 21, 2004 - cutting along that property line any more than has already been done but they are in escrow to purchase. the parcel to the west, and the cut will be deeper on that property. Mayor Adolph stated he toured the project in Rancho Mirage, which does not look like a tract, and had hoped this project wouldn't either but it does. He asked how much building space would be on each lot and if the development is expected to be a family community. Mr. Foxx stated the building space will average 25 to 35 %, and they anticipate 20% of their homes being sold to families with children. Mayor Adolph commented on the lack of amenities in the. development for adults and children. Mr. Foxx stated it's their experience that homebuyers don't want to pay the maintenance costs for common area features. He noted the lots will accommodate pools. Mayor Adolph stated he believes a development this size should have a recreation area for children, including teenagers, and encouraged the - developer to consider it. Mr. Foxx stated they anticipate a majority of their homeowners being seasonal visitors, and that makes a difference in how they design the development. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Foxx stated the home prices will start at $600,000 but go way beyond that amount. He feels the cost of maintaining an amenity area would be a significant burden on 74 homeowners. He commented on water amenities, such as pools and spas, being an integral part of the landscape design of-the homes. Mayor Adolph inquired about the vehicle stacking area at the entrance. Mr. Foxx stated they are required to provide stacking for three cars, and there will be a through lane for resident use. Council Member Henderson stated she understands the concern about providing amenity areas for children but doesn't see the need for it in this development. She stated she also is not convinced amenity areas are - necessary for teenagers. City Council Minutes 18 December 21, 2004 Mayor Adolph pointed out grassed retention basins can be used for ball areas. Mr. Foxx noted that creates very high maintenance and high water usage. He believes the preference for this price range and buyer profile is to have large lots for private space instead of a small pocket park. Council Member Henderson referenced the need for the homebuyers to be made aware of the potential problem of church bells. Mr. Foxx stated the real estate disclosure laws will cover that situation if it exists. Nat Freeman, representing the Laguna de la Paz committee, stated they are in agreement with the lot elevations and density of the project, and are working with the developer on the wall and berm landscaping. He commented on the developer's willingness to work with the homeowners, and stated they are very happy with what the developer proposes to do with the existing berm area. Mr. Foxx requested Condition No. 10 be changed to require a street width of -.--- 28 feet between Lots 42 and 43 with no parking on either side of the street. He noted the project is conditioned to remove the street or not to build it if the adjoining tentative map is not approved. He stated the interior streets will be constructed with interlocking brick pavers, and the entry street will have a landscaped median with no parking allowed on either side of the street. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Foxx stated he can provide a sample of the synthetic rock when the project goes back to the Planning Commission but noted a sample outside of its setting will not look the same as when it is installed. He noted the best way to find out how the material looks is to see it at The Vintage in Indian Wells. Council Member Henderson suggested the Architecture and Landscape Review Committee and the Planning Commission be made aware of the potential for a site visit to view the material. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Foxx confirmed the synthetic rock is actually a facade applied to reinforced material. Public Works Director Jonasson noted the same type of process is being used for the entry at SilverRock Resort. -....-.-.--...-.,. -~~ .- City Council Minutes 19 December 21, 2004 - There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 8:36 p.m. Council Member Osborne voiced concern that the 20-foot high entry not extend beyond 50 feet so as not to block the mountain view. Mayor Adolph asked if the proportions of the entry statement in relation to the development have been reviewed by staff. Mr. Foxx reviewed an elevation showing how the height tapers down to the wall height. RESOLUTION NO. 2004-160 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32397 (CANYON RIDGE, LLC). It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Osborne to adopt Resolution No. 2004-1 60 as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member Perkins - ABSENT. RESOLUTION NO. 2004-161 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE SUBDIVISION OF 28.43 ± ACRES INTO A 74 LOT RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT (TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 32397 - CANYON RIDGE, LLC). It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Osborne to adopt Resolution No. 2004-161 as amended (modifying Condition No. 10(A) to allow a 28-foot wide street design with no parking between Lots 42 and 43). Motion carried with Council Member Perkins ABSENT. 4. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY' COUNCIL TO CERTIFY A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2004-524 AND SPECIFIC PLAN 97-029, AMENDMENT NO.3, TO ADD 12.33 ACRES TO THE EXISTING CENTRE AT LA QUINTA SPECIFIC PLAN TO ESTABLISH - DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPALS FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE SOUTHWEST CORNER OF HIGHWAY 111 AND DUNE PALMS ROAD. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY. City Council Minutes 20 December 21, 2004 Associate Planner Magaña introduced George Britton, of Rosenow Spevacek Group, who presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Britton confirmed the primary access, and at least one secondary access, on Dune Palms Road will connect to the existing shopping center. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:47 p.m. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 8:47p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2004-162 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARA TION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT PREPARED FOR SPECIFIC PLAN 97-029, AMENDMENT NO.3 (LA GUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to adopt Resolution No. 2004-162 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. RESOLUTION NO. 2004-163 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AMENDMENT NO.3 TO SPECIFIC PLAN 97-029, CENTRE AT LA QUINTA. (LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 2004-1 63 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. Council recessed into Joint Session with the Redevelopment Agency. 5. JOINT PUBLIC HEARING BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO APPROVE AN AGREEMENT TO SELL REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 78-310 DESERT FALL WAY BY AND BETWEEN THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND FELIX PEREZ. City Manager/Interim Community Development Director Genovese presented the staff report. -- --------------...-- . City Council Minutes 21 December 21, 2004 - The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:51 p.m. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 8:51 p.m. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to approve the Agreement to sell a single family home located at 78-310 Desert Fall Way to Felix Perez for a purchase price of $165,000. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-151. 6. JOINT PUBLIC HEARING BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL AND REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO APPROVE AN AGREEMENT TO SELL REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 52-830 AVENIDA MARTINEZ BY AND BETWEEN THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND DANIELLE DAVENPORT. City Manager/Interim Community Development Director Genovese presented the staff report. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 8:53 p.m. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at - 8:53 p.m. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to approve the Agreement to sell a single family home located at 52-830 Avenida Martinez to Danielle Davenport for a purchase price of $165,000. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 2004-152. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Osborne/Sniff to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. Respectfully submitted, ~-Ri.~ JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California -