Loading...
2006 03 21 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES MARCH 21, 2006 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, Kirk, Osborne, Sniff, Mayor Adolph ABSENT: PUBLIC COMMENT - None CLOSED SESSION City Manager Genovese noted for the record the property negotiator for Item No.2 has been changed to Thomas P. Genovese. 1 . Conference with legal counsel - anticipated litigation - pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(c). 2. Conference with the City's real property negotiator, Thomas P. Genovese, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and conditions of acquisition and disposition of real property located southwest of the intersection of Highway 111 and La Quinta Centre Drive. Property Owner/Negotiator: Stamko Development Company. Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency and to Closed Session to and until the hour of 3:00 p.m. 3:00 P.M. Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance. PUBLIC COMMENT Scott Arthur, 43-845 Milan Court, asked for an update on the wall situation at the School District project on Palm Royale. City Council Minutes 2 March 21, 2006 Council Member Osborne indicated he has a potential conflict of interest with this issue due to the close proximity of his property to this site, and left the dais. City Manager Genovese stated staff is still trying to schedule a meeting with the School District. Mr. Arthur questioned the need to ask the School District about a secondary wall adjacent to the homeowners' walls because the homeowners are not interested in that option. He noted the School District project is moving forward, and asked how long it will take to rectify the homeowners' concerns. He added he feels the solution suggested by the homeowners would address everyone's concerns. Mayor Adolph commented that the City is trying to handle the issue properly with the School District. He indicated if something isn't done soon, the City will do what it feels is proper to mitigate the homeowner's concerns, as well as the City's public safety concerns. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Mayor Adolph stated he has some questions on Consent Item No. 1 2 before taking action on the Consent Calendar. ANNOUNCEMENTS - None PRESENTATIONS Jeff Beckelman, Chief Executive Officer for Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention & Visitors Authority, gave an oral and video presentation on CV A's new campaign slogan, "Give In To the Desert - You're Surrounded." He also presented sample advertisements depicting how they are moving away from using the name of the organization in advertisements and focusing on selling the products identified by each city. Council Member Sniff asked which of the 1 5 products referenced in the ad campaign are attributed to the County, and if the advertising will be broken down to singular items in each city. Mr. Beckelman noted the County is encompassed by all of the cities. As for the advertising, he indicated they met with each city to identify what they were looking for, and they will be advertising product lines with the cities' names included. For example, golf will represent all cities with that product line. He --"-~"------"'_._._._._-_._-_._-_..- -.-- _. -.-- -..--. -- ---.....----..- City Council Minutes 3 March 21, 2006 noted some of the product lines are pertinent to certain cities but some are available in many of the cities. Council Member Sniff voiced concern about the CV A title, and commented on the need for the City to get direct benefit from the advertisements in relation to the amount it contributes to the CV A. Mr. Beckelman noted the organization name is not used in the sample advertisements. He stated their job is to position the entire Valley as a destination, and La Ouinta is a part of that. Council Member Sniff commented that he feels the slogan should be easily remembered and identifiable, and hopes some chance remains for modification. Mr. Beckelman responded that the slogan campaign will be going before their marketing committee for final approval, and noted no marketing tag line is recognizable without frequency. Council Member Sniff inquired about the amount to be spent on advertising over the next 1 2 months and how will it be used. He also asked about the number of ads that will be developed. Mr. Beckelman stated they expect to spend $500,000, and that the advertising campaign will be a combination of working through travel trade distribution networks such as AAA, tour wholesale companies, Expedia, etc. The funds will also be used on exhibit booths at major trade shows, and to update the web site. They will be developing 1 5 ads to be used year-round and using a targeted approach in distribution because of budget limitations. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Beckelman confirmed CV A is a sales organization whose purpose is to draw meetings and conventions to the Valley to fill hotels. He stated the three service scenarios presented to the cities were: 1) downsizing staff and doing more image advertising, 2) continuing as they had done in the past, or 3) doing some advertising and support and becoming the best sales organization possible to build TOT. Mayor Adolph noted CV A has one year to come up with a program that will convince the City to remain a member. Mr. Beckelman stated he will provide updates as they progress. City Council Minutes 4 March 21, 2006 WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS 1 . CORRESPONDENCE FROM COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSIONER ANDREA GASSMAN REQUESTING USE OF THE CITY'S MASCOT COSTUME FOR THE DESERT BAR ASSOCIATION'S DISTINGUISHED JUDGES NIGHT AND ANNUAL BIRD AWARDS CEREMONY. Council Member Kirk indicated he doesn't have a problem with the request. In response to Council Member Henderson, City Manager Genovese stated Council gave the City Manager discretion in use of the City's mascot costume but it's difficult for staff to know when Council would want to allow or deny use of the costume for private events. He noted there is also some part-time staff costs and potential liability issues. Council Member Sniff spoke in opposition to the request because of the expense to the City, and potential of leading to a convoluted trail in trying to determine which uses to approve. Council Member Osborne stated he doesn't have a problem with this use but there is no way of knowing what future requests might be. Council Member Henderson suggested having this come back as a business item and looking at establishing a policy. She stated she believes any expense should be covered by the requesting party, and that uses not part of a City function should come before the Council for consideration. She asked if there would be any legal concerns in deciding who can, or cannot, use the costume. City Attorney Jenson advised there would be no legal concerns. Mayor Adolph agreed with having the matter come back. Council Member Sniff stated if the matter is going to come back, he would like the staff report to include potential costs and liability. Andrea Gassman, 53-415 Avenida Obregon, representing the Desert Bar Association, stated they are willing to take full responsibility and cover any costs, and understand that this is a one-time, special consideration. Council concurred to direct staff to bring this matter back as a business item. --- ~. ---~ ---..---------... .~-.--~_. --.---...-....----. -- ..- City Council Minutes 5 March 21, 2006 2. CORRESPONDENCE FROM YMCA OF THE DESERT REQUESTING SUPPORT FOR BUILDING A REGIONAL YMCA FACILITY. Alison Elsner, representing YMCA of the Desert, stated they are hoping to partner with the desert cities to provide a regional YMCA facility. The City of Rancho Mirage has offered land and capital for the project, and YMCA has made a commitment to raise $9 million. Mayor Adolph noted the City already has a YMCA facility in La Guinta. Council Member Sniff noted the City built the facility and leases it to the YMCA for $1 a year. Ms. Elsner stated they appreciate what the City has done but there are needs throughout the valley that haven't been met because of the population explosion. She stated they are requesting $250,000. Council Member Henderson commented on it being difficult to support a facility that far from La Guinta, and stated she feels La Guinta is better served by emphasizing the local facility. Council Member Kirk asked if any alternative locations had been considered where more families would be more likely to use the facility. Ms. Elsner stated their study shows the Rancho Mirage location would have a strong membership and be an effective site based on need alone. Council concurred to receive and file the correspondence. 3. CORRESPONDENCE FROM KMIR REGARDING A TEEN DRIVER SAFETY PROGRAM. Laurie Nadeau, Director of Business Development for KMIR, gave a brief overview of the program. Mayor Adolph stated he feels it is a viable program. In response to Council Member Osborne, Ms. Nadeau indicated the total cost of the program is $120,000. Council Member Henderson stated she would need to know how many students can attend the clinics, and if the program will be held at both airports simultaneously. City Council Minutes 6 March 21, 2006 In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Nadeau stated La Quinta City Council is the first one they have approached directly. She confirmed the program will definitely take place, with or without financial assistance from the cities. Council concurred to direct staff to bring this matter back as a business item. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the City Council Minutes of March 7, 2006, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. CONSENT CALENDAR Mayor Adolph r.equested an update on Item No. 12. Public Works Director Jonasson stated the underground work for the traffic signal is in place, and the poles are due in early April. There should beafully-improved entrance off of Washington Street once the paving is done. He indicated the frontage road and Singing Palms will remain closed until the traffic signal is constructed. Mayor Adolph inquired about the timeline for the access gate, and the buffer wall between the entrance and the frontage road. Planning Manager Johnson stated the wall design is currently under review in the Community Development Department. Mr. Jonasson indicated he doesn't know the schedule for installing the emergency gate but noted Singing Palms will have access to the traffic signal. without going through a gate. He added Singing Palms will not be opened until the traffic signal is operational. Mayor Adolph commented it is reasonable for the residents to want to know when the project will be· completed and everything cleaned up. Mr. Jonasson responded the developer has indicated they should be done within six months. He added the standard for extensions is one year but the Council can limit it to six months if they want. ---.----- City Council Minutes 7 March 21, 2006 1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED MARCH 21, 2006. 2. RECEIVE AND FILE TREASURER'S REPORT FOR JANUARY 31, 2006. ~. ~r;Cr;IVJ; AND J:IL~ R~VI;NUI; & EXPENDITURES REJPORT FOR JANUARY 31, 2006. 4. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 30023-7, TRILOGY, SHEA LA QUINTA, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2006-019 ) 5. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 31249, THE VILLAGE AT CORAL MOUNTAIN, ADOBE HOLDING, INC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2006-020) 6. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FILED BY ELIZABETH ESCATEL: DATE OF LOSS - JANUARY 27, 2006. 7. DENIAL OF CLAIM FOR DAMAGES FILED BY KAREN COCHRAN : DATE OF LOSS - OCTOBER 9, 2005. 8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 31733, MIRA DEL SOL, IREC-PAC/LA QUINTA, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2006-021) 9. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT MAP 31732, MIRA DEL SOL, IREC-PAC/LA QUINTA, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2006-022) 10. APPROVAL OF A PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH LAN ENGINEERING CORPORATION TO PREPARE THE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE FOR THE AVENUE 52 BRIDGE IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 2005-02. 11. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE COUNCIL MEMBER TO ATTEND THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF SHOPPING CENTERS SPRING CONFERENCE IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, MAY 21-24, 2006. City Council Minutes 8 March 21, 2006 12. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION OF IMPROVEMENTS FOR A PERIOD OF ONE YEAR FOR AMENDED TRACT MAP 31348, THE ESTATES AT POINT HAPPY, PH RANCH, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO. 2006-023) 13. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE MEMBER OF THE CITY COUNCIL TO ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES REVENUE & TAXATION COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD FRIDAY, MARCH 31, 2006 IN LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 4, 5, 8, 9, and 12 being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2006-019 through 2006-023 respectively. Motion carried unanimously. BUSINESS SESSION 1 . CONSIDERATION OF SELECTION OF A PLANNING COMMISSIONER TO FILL AN EXISTING VACANCY THROUGH JUNE 20, 2006. City Manager Genovese presented the staff report. The following gave brief presentations on their background and qualifications: Katie Barrows Kevin Maevers Patrick Swarthout Robert Wright Robert Wilkinson In response to Council Member Osborne, City Attorney Jenson confirmed Ms. Barrows' position with the C.V. Mountains Conservancy would not be a conflict of interest. Ballot No.1: Mayor Adolph voted for Council Member Henderson voted for Council Member Kirk voted for Council Member Osborne voted for Council Member Sniff voted for Robert Wright Katie Barrows Katie Barrows Katie Barrows Katie Barrows -.-.....-..-.-- - - City Council Minutes 9 March 21, 2006 MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Kirk to appoint Katie Barrows to serve an unexpired term on the Planning Commission ending June 30, 2006. Motion carried unanimously. Council concurred to take up Business Item No.4 at this time. 4. CONSIDERATION OF A RESOLUTION IN SUPPORT OF SB 1542 REGARDING KEY INFORMATION ACCESS FOR MOTOR VEHICLE OWNERS. City Manager Genovese presented the staff report. Tracy James, District Manager for The Auto Club of Southern California, stated he is available to answer questions, and urged approval of the resolution. Council Member Henderson asked if this would require setting up a costly network. Mr. James stated the costs will be included In the purchase of the automobile. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-024 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, SUPPORTING SENATE BILL 1542. It was moved by Council Members Kirk/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 2006-024 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. Council concurred to take up Department Report 1-B at this time. DEPARTMENT REPORTS 1-B. LA QUINTA LIBRARY QUARTERLY REPORT. Irene Wickstrom, La Quinta Librarian, gave a brief overview of the quarterly report. She also thanked the City for the recent artwork placed in the library. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Wickstrom confirmed she selects the books for the library, and that some of their books might be defined as City Council Minutes 10 March 21, 2006 "controversial." She indicated they do not have any books of significant historical value in the library. In response to Council Member Osborne, Nancy Johnson, County Librarian, explained the $22,000 for internet service is a one-time fee for setting up the wireless connections. Council Member Henderson inquired about the next Library Zone Advisory Board meeting, and Ms Johnson indicated they are trying. to schedule a meeting in April. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Johnson stated they try to keep books with current information in the library, and books that are not read are given to another library or to the Friends of the La Quinta Library. Council recessed to and until 7 :00 P.M. 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT Ira Boiko, 44-750 Seeley Drive, and Lori Fahwestock, inquired about the status of the gate on Vista Grande. City Attorney Jenson advised an agreement has not yet been reached with the City of Indio,' and the time has expired on the demand for them to remove the iIIegally- installed encroachment. The City will be undertaking a contract to have the previous condition of the right-of-way restored by removing the pavement and re- establishing the curb. The Community Development Department is also looking into initiating a process to install a crash/emergency gate on Calle Serena. She advised public hearing notices will be mailed, and the process will begin as soon as possible. * * * * * * * * * * Mark Weisman and Doug Martin, representing The Prestige at PGA West Golf Tournament, requested the City consider being a sponsor of the golf event to be held October 14-17, 2006. Mayor Adolph suggested their request be submitted in a formal letter for Council's future consideration. . - --.-.-.-.- City Council Minutes PRESENTATIONS 11 March 21, 2006 The Mayor and Council Members presented art awards to the following students of Adams Elementary School whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall: Alejandro Hoyas Jr. Sara Madueno Alondra Magallon Sydni Maloney Lexy Martinez Kejona McCrumb Frank McEwan Anna Meeks Mariah Mejia Stephanie Molina Jaro Moncada Christine Moreno Joseph Moreno Stephanie Nava Esmeralda Ojeda-Ramirez Thalia Ortiz PUBLIC HEARINGS Jazmin Padilla Kaila Pavia Citlally Pena-Gastelum Francisco Ponce Alex Quevedo Oscar Quevedo Casandra Quiroz Alejandro Ramos Julian Ramos Angelica Raygoza Gabriel Rios Jr. Yesenia Rivas Mariana Rivera Jennifer Salas Brian Savino Ruben Servin Jr. Brianda Tapia-Lopez Aidan Thomas Gabriel Tigner Isabel Torres Isela Torres-Marquez lIana Valdez Maria Valencia Sebastian Villagomez Demian Welker Devin Williams Zachary Wisdom Michaelanthony Ybarra Brielle Young Theya Yrigoyen Amy Zavala 1 . PUBLIC HEARING TO ADOPT A RESOLUTION APPROVING THE AMENDED NON-DISPOSAL FACILITY ELEMENT AS REQUIRED BY STATE ASSEMBLY BILL 3001. Planning Manager Johnson presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Johnson stated he understands the State requires adoption of the resolution, and that the City can use any of the facilities listed on Page 2 of the staff report. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:42 p.m. Deborah McGarrey, Municipal Marketing Manager for Waste Management of the Desert, indicated they use all of the sites on the list except the Coachella Valley Recycling and Transfer Station and the Coachella Valley Composting Facility. She noted the City has control of where its waste goes by stipulating it in the contract. City Council Minutes 12 March 21, 2006 In response to Mayor Adolph, Ms. McGarrey confirmed any future contract with Burrtec would also dictate where the City's waste goes. In response to Council Member Henderson, City Manager Genovese confirmed the resolution would need to be amended if different facilities are used in the future. There being no further requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:48 p.m. RESOLUTION NO. 2006-025 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINT A, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE NON-DISPOSAL FACILITY ELEMENT. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 2006-025 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. BUSINESS SESSION . . . . . . . . . . . . continued 2. CONSIDERATION OF THE RED LIGHT CAMERA ENFORCEMENT PROGRAM, PROJECT NO. 2004-06. Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Kirk, Consultant Nick Nickerson stated staff identified four firms when the original RFP was distributed but others have come up since then. He stated officer time is expected to entail about four hours a day in the beginning but should be reduced to half a day each week once people learn not to run the light. Sergeant John Shields, of the Riverside County Sheriff's Department, confirmed the program has been effective in most areas. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Nickerson stated staff has been waiting for the camera program to be approved before initiating the encroachment process with CalTrans. Mr. Jonasson stated he doesn't expect the encroachment process to be a problem. Council Member Henderson stated she supports the program but believes the signal lights at Highway 111 and Washington Street should be brought under control before installing cameras. She stated she is still hearing concerns from residents about the short timeframe between the yellow and red lights - ----~-~..- __ _ _.._ __··____________u_ City Council Minutes 13 March 21, 2006 when making left-turns. She is concerned the situation might be viewed as entrapment. Mr. Jonasson advised the signal timing is controlled by CalTrans, and their standard yellow light timing is three seconds followed by one second of all red throughout the entire intersection. He indicated the timing is not the same for through and left-turn traffic, and the lead lag timing depends on the time of day. In response to Council Member Henderson, Sergeant Shields stated citations are issued only if vehicles enter the limit line after the light turns red, and the timing for the lights must be set per code or the Sheriff's Department cannot enforce it. He stated some companies provide an option for the violation photos to be viewed online. He also indicated the reviewing officer must be a deputy and not a community services officer. Council Member Henderson stated she likes the idea of people being able to view their violations online. Council Member Sniff questioned why the program is not used in more areas if it is so good. Sergeant Shields indicated it's probably because of the difficulty in getting the program approved but he personally knows of two cities that are pleased with the program. The deputy reviewing the violations would be trained and certified by the company providing the cameras. Council Member Sniff referenced indemnification, and noted Transol went out of business because of a lawsuit. He asked about the turn distance across the intersection of Highway 111 and Washington Street, and if the signal timing is consistent throughout the City. Sergeant Shields stated he doesn't know the turn distance but the timing varies depending on the intersection and the speed at the intersection. He stated the law requires a longer yellow-light phase when the speed is faster. He believes the longest yellow light timing is six seconds and the shortest is one second. Council Member Sniff voiced concern about the timing inconsistencies leading to difficulties with the camera program. He asked if the Sheriff's Department advocates the program in any other cities they cover. Sergeant Shield stated he and the Police Chief are both supportive of the red light program but, as yet, have not advocated it in the City of Coachella. City Council Minutes 14 March 21, 2006 Council Member Osborne asked if they've advocated the program for the City of Palm Desert, and if they see the program as the best opportunity to get control of the red-light-running problem in La Quinta. Sergeant Shields stated the City of Indian Wells is the only other city he knows they have advocated the program for, and it's his understanding they view it as a public safety issue. He believes the red light program is the best solution for red light enforcement at the intersection of Highway 111 and Washington Street because of the number of vehicles and size of the intersection. Council Member Osborne inquired about the status of the City getting control of the traffic signals on Highway 111. He also asked about the status of the pedestrian crossings on Dune Palms Road and Miles Avenue. Mr. Jonasson stated he believes progress is being made in negotiations with CalTrans. As for the pedestrian crossings, the equipment has been ordered, and installation is scheduled to begin during spring break. In reference to traffic signal timing throughout the City, he stated the traffic engineer has developed timing sheets that force the signals into at least the minimum yellow and all red standards so the City is protected if timing becomes an issue. He has also worked with CalTrans to get timing consistency on Highway 111 . Mayor Adolph stated he has noticed the left-turn signal at Highway 111 and Washington Street changes to yellow and red while the straight-through traffic light is still green. He voiced concern about the left-turn and straight- through lights not changing at the same time. In response to Mayor Adolph, Sergeant Shields stated it's his understanding that the City of Indian Wells intends to continue the camera program. Council Member Henderson asked if there would be an option for a sole source, and having direct communication with. A TS. She also asked if the company would be allowed to have a BETA contract with more than one city. Ms. Jenson stated if it's truly a cost-free program except for officer time, it may be exempt under the City Code. Council Member Henderson voiced concern that there may be some unrealistic expectation of a "cost-free" program, and stated she understands -- ---...- _._.~ ~-~-- City Council Minutes 15 March 21, 2006 In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Jenson confirmed the City would be able to get out of a BETA program contract after one year because it's a five-year contract with an option to cancel each year. She noted the Transol contract included a provision that gave the City the right to change operators after one year. Council Member Henderson asked if the City would have to distribute an RFP if it wanted to continue the program after the BETA period. Ms. Jenson stated she doubts a company would be willing to sign a one-year contract without renewal options. Mr. Nickerson pointed out there is money involved with a BETA contract. Based on a BETA contract like the one in Cathedral City and the costs proposed by Transol, a red light camera program at Highway 111 and Washington Street would cost the service provider a minimum of $25,000 each month. The Council would have to set aside 12 times that amount in the budget to fund the contract, and at three and six-month intervals, the City would evaluate if the service provider's cost is equal or less than the amount received from citations. If the service provider's cost is more than what the City collected from citations, the service provider would credit the City on future invoices. He noted accruing costs would continue at the same time the service provider is crediting the previous amount. He further noted it takes 30-60 days for citations to cycle through the court system. Mr. Jonasson confirmed there would be upfront costs even with a BETA program. Council Member Henderson spoke in support of talking to A TS and trying the program. In response to Council Member Henderson, Sergeant Shields confirmed the Sheriff's Department does not go from city to city advocating the program but they are supportive when cities voice an interest in the program. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Nickerson confirmed the Council previously discussed including the intersection of Fred Waring Drive and Washington Street in the camera program. Council Member Sniff commented on the differences between the two intersections, and how it would affect the camera program. City Council Minutes 16 March 21, 2006 Sergeant Shields confirmed the service providers would modify the equipment with any improved technology during the contract but the plan would be to not call for them to modify the setup. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Nickerson explained the City of Indian Wells stopped the camera program during some construction activity. Their BETA program contract expired during that time, and they just haven't renewed it. Council Member Kirk asked how many intersections in the City would the Sheriff's Department recommend for the program. Sergeant Shields stated he recommends one intersection at this time because of the questions regarding cost and required manpower. He commented on the difficulty and safety involved with officers trying to issue citations at the Highway 111 and Washington Street intersection. In response to Council Member Osborne, Sergeant Shields stated he doesn't have the statistics but estimates about six accidents a month at Highway 111 and Washington Street. Council Member Sniff asked about any legal difficulties if the signal lights are perceived to be faulty and inconsistent. Ms. Jenson advised the red light camera law requires a specific timing for the yellow light. When a joint jurisdiction or CalTrans jurisdiction exists, it complicates the issue because the City doesn't have complete control of the timing. She believes the legal problem can be satisfied through an agreement with CalTrans wherein they contractually commit to maintaining the timing consistent with the legal requirement. Council Member Osborne stated he supports re-advertising the RFP to do a test program at one intersection. Council Member Henderson suggested the possibility of entering negotiations with ATS for a BETA program. Council Member Kirk spoke in support of redistributing the RFP to see if any other companies out there have ideas to suggest. Council Member Henderson stated she doesn't have a problem with that but noted the RFP may need some revision. ----- - -- ..-- -.-....- - ~ City Council Minutes 17 March 21, 2006 Mr. Nickerson noted the discussions today are consistent with Council's previous direction to staff when negotiating with Transol, therefore, the revisions have all been addressed in the RFP. Council Member Sniff suggested the RFP be brought back in two weeks with the revisions. Council Member Kirk stated it sounds like the corrections have been made except for an optional element regarding online viewing of the citations. He indicated he has been in favor of the program since the Council first considered it, and supports it even more after hearing the impacts on officer safety in trying to do enforcement. He stated he supports moving forward with the RFP. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Kirk/Henderson to direct staff to issue a Request for Proposals for the Red Light Camera Enforcement Program with the revisions noted by staff and changes to the revenue neutral position, and adding a provision for other optional elements, including online viewing. Mayor Adolph added the stipulation that the program would be for one intersection. Council concurred. In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Nickerson confirmed the changes are included in the RFP, including the optional element of online viewing. He further confirmed the one Intersection would be Highway 111 and Washington Street. Motion carried unanimously. 3. CONSIDERATION OF A RELOCATION PLAN FOR THE DUNE PALMS ROAD DEVELOPMENT. Redevelopment Consultant Frank Spevacek presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Spevacek confirmed this matter does not require a public hearing. Mayor Adolph inquired about the three lots at the corner. City Council Minutes 18 March 21, 2006 Mr. Spevacek stated one of the property owners, who is handicapped, was not interested in an offer of purchase. Staff will talk to the property owner again, and present the potential impacts that the widening of Dune Palms Road could have on his property. He noted staff's goal is to try to facilitate the acquisition of homes that will be impacted by the street widening. Council Member Henderson suggested the possibility of offering the resident a home in the ,development. Mr. Spevacek advised one of the needs identified in the City's Housing Element is handicapped and special-needs housing. He commented on the potential of putting together a large enough parcel to make it affordable, handicapped, and special needs housing. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Kirk to approve the Relocation Plan for the Dune Palms Road Project and authorize the City Manager to submit the Relocation Plan to the State Department of Housing and Community Development. Motion carried unanimously. 5. CONSIDERATION OF THE LAFCO RECOMMENDATION ON THE SPHERE OF INFLUENCE. Planning Manager Johnson presented the staff report. In response to Council Member Sniff, City Manager Genovese stated LAFCO is recommending an irregular piece north of Avenue 52 but it was not part of the Council's original recommendation. Because of that and the property owner's request, staff has identified some irregular boundaries that may be difficult to work with in the future. He noted LAFCO generally recommends keeping boundaries in square units, and the City originally recommended a boundary along Avenue 52. The total amount of land involved is approximately 300 acres. Council Member Sniff suggested going back to the original request if it doesn't complicate the process. Mayor Adolph stated he understood there was an agreement to let the City of Coachella have the Academy and Cemetery. Council Member Henderson nÇ>ted the agreement was between the two cities but it's not what LAFCO is recommending. ~~ _._- ~.._._._- - -~_.- - -- ~ ", '. City Council Minutes 19 March 21, 2006 In response to Mayor Adolph, Mr. Johnson confirmed the City has not received any correspondence from the City of Coachella regarding that issue. Council Member Osborne spoke in support of changing the boundary line to Avenue 52. Council Member Henderson explained the irregular area was included by LAFCO because of a few property owners north of Avenue 52 that maintained they are part of Vista Santa Rosa. She stated she doesn't feel it would be good for La Ouinta, Coachella, or Indio, to include the irregular area in La Ouinta's sphere, and she agrees with cutting if off at Avenue 52. MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Kirk to direct staff to prepare a letter to LAFCO recommending the sphere of influence boundary be modified by removing the area north of Avenue 52 from La Ouinta's sphere of influence. Motion carried unanimously. STUDY SESSION - None REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Animal Campus Commission - Council Member Henderson reported they are reviewing a proposal to utilize micro-chips in animals in lieu of, or in conjunction with, dog licenses. CVAG Human & Community Resources Committee - Council Member Osborne reported they are continuing to discuss a potential tobacco retail licensing ordinance that would implement a license fee of $350, and create a new division within the Riverside County Health Department. Riverside County and the cities of Palm Desert and Rancho Mirage have approved the ordinance and want to make it valleywide. He does not support the program because he feels the issues involved are already being handled. He inquired about how the Council wants him to respond at tomorrow's meeting, and they agreed with him. CV AG Public Safety Committee - Council Member Kirk reported on a presentation by the Palm Springs Police Department regarding false alarm fees, wherein second offenders would be allowed to participate in an online alarm school. CV AG Transportation Committee - Council Member Kirk stated the Committee agreed to receive and file a study regarding the 220-foot right-of-way alignment along Avenue 62, and move forward for County consideration as the County considers development applications. However, before any finalization of the City Council Minutes 20 March 21, 2006 alignment, the County or lead agency must work with the affected general plans in the area. C. V. Mosquito & Vector Control District - In response to Mayor Adolph, City Manager Genovese confirmed Mr. Perkins has been informed he is still the City's representative on the Board. He indicated staff will ask for copies of the District's minutes. Jacqueline Cochran Regional Airport Authority - Council Member Osborne stated the Flying Cross Command organization is proposing to place a Missing Men Memorial at the airport. The County will be contributing $11 ,000 and each city will be asked to contribute $3,000 to cover the $26,000 cost. Council Member Henderson stated she is not opposed to the memorial but feels someone should look at the special interest groups that keep coming up. League of California Cities - Council Member Henderson commented on the success of the meeting held in La Quinta last week, and reported she has been reappointed to LAFCO. San Jacinto/Santa Rosa National Monument Advisory Committee - Council Member Henderson referenced a letter from Gary Watts regarding the Committee's desire to place signs at the base of the mountains in each city that signifies the National Monument area. They are requesting each city fund the cost of the sign. in their particular city, and she hopes the Council will support it. The signs will be uniformly designed, and placed at entry points to the Monument with the most exposure. * * * * * * * * * * * * * All other reports were noted and filed. DEPARTMENT REPORTS . . . . . . . . . . . . continued 1-C. REPORT REGARDING A PRESENTATION BY THE PALM SPRINGS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT DIRECTOR OF AVIATION. Council concurred with scheduling the presentation for April 18, 2006. * * * * * * * * * * - ~ ------.-.- -'-"----- - ~-- -- ~ - City Council Minutes 21 March 21, 2006 Council Member Osborne inquired about the date of the first SilverRock Subcommittee meeting, and City Manager Genovese indicated the meeting will be held March 29th. * * * * * * * * * * * City Attorney Jenson reported a workshop with Bill Marticorena is tentatively scheduled for the April 18th Council meeting to discuss cable and telecommunications. * * * * * * * * * * * * Council Member Henderson expressed appreciation for the Monthly Executive Status Reports included with the monthly report from. the Building & Safety Department. MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING BUS STOP IN FRONT OF THE LA GUINTA LIBRARY. Council Member Henderson suggested going out with an RFP for an artist, in conjunction with an engineer, to do a II library-specific" design for the library bus stop. Council concurred the design should be presented to the Community Services Commission and forwarded to the City Council for approval. * * * * * * * * * * Council Member Henderson commented on the need for new banners on the light poles in the Village. * * * * * * * * * * * Mayor Adolph reported that Madison Club is getting closer to making Madison a through street from Avenue 52 to Avenue 54, and they are working with 110 to underground the high power poles. Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency meeting. City Council Minutes 22 March 21, 2006 Council reconvened and recessed to the Financing Authority meeting. . Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page 1. The City Council meeting was reconvened with no decisions being made in Closed Session which require reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government Code (Brown Act). ADJOURNMENT There being no further business the meeting was adjourned. .Respectfully submitted, ~ ---d:J. ~ JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California ~._..._.~_.__..- _..~_.....- --- .