2007 12 18 CC Minutes
LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
DECEMBER 18, 2007
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of
3:00 p.m. by Mayor Adolph.
PRESENT:
ABSENT:
Council Members Henderson, Kirk, Osborne, Sniff, Mayor Adolph
None
PUBLIC COMMENT
Douglas R. Bigley, Protech Holdings, explained the company is experienced in the
development of workforce housing; addressed land values and the mitigated risks.
CLOSED SESSION
City Manager Genovese advised Item No. 1 should include the wording,
"Conference with Legal Counsel" and City Attorney Jenson did not participate in
Closed Session Item No.1.
1 . Conference with legal counsel regarding approval of Settlement Agreement -
Shea La Quinta, LLC, v. City of La Quinta, Riverside Superior Court Case No.
RIC484197, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9{a). (See
announcement on Page 2.)
2. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Douglas R. Evans, pursuant
to Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of property located at Dune
Palms Road south of Highway 111 and identified as APN 600-020-012.
Property Owner/Negotiator: Protech Holdings 123, John Bigley.
3. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Douglas R. Evans, pursuant
to Government Code Section 54956.8 concerning potential terms and
conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of property located southeast of
the intersection of Adams Street and La Guinta Centre Drive. Property
Owner/Negotiator: Christine Clarke, Stamko Development Company.
Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency and to Closed Session to and until
the hour of 4:00 p.m.
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December 18, 2007
4:00 P.M.
Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
CLOSED SESSION ANNOUNCEMENT
City Manager Genovese announced the City Council unanimously approved the
settlement agreement between Shea La Quinta LLC and the City of La Quinta in
Item No.1, on a motion made by Council Members Kirk/Osborne.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Kay Wolff, 77-227 Calle Ensenada, expressed appreciation to Council and staff for
their service to the community in 2007 and for installation of a perimeter wall at
the Fred Wolff Preserve.
Bill Ivey, 78-665 Descanso Lane, Vice President of Rancho La Quinta Master
Homeowners' Association, stated the sound study approved by their Board
indicates excessive sound affecting over 300 residents near Washington Street;
and recommended the City fully review the report.
James Duff also spoke about how traffic 'noise on Washington Street impacts the
daily life of residents and their property values; and requested installation of a
sound attenuation wall.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA - Confirmed
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS
Gayle Biondi, representing Friends of the Library, presented a $25,000 donation for
development of the children's area at the La Quinta Library.
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December 18, 2007
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1. WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE FROM URBAN HOUSING COMMUNITIES
DATED DECEMBER 11,2007.
Received and filed.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the City
Council Minutes of December 4, 2007, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
Council Member Osborne requested Item No. 22 be taken up separately, and stated
he would like to comment on Item Nos. 17 and 18.
. Council Member Osborne questioned the difference between the budgeted and
project cost amounts for Item Nos. 17 and 18. Public Works Director Jonasson
explained the projects are 2 Y, years old, and upon review staff decided to uplight
the median due to the location, which accounts for the $400,000 increase; the
project is a separate line item and can return with alternatives for City Council
review. He further explained upon review of the detail with the Homeowners'
Association, the improvements were required to match the frontage of each
community which was not included in the original estimates.
Council Member Kirk requested Item No. 15 be taken up separately due to a
conflict of interest.
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED DECEMBER 18, 2007.
2. RECEIVE AND FILE TREASURER'S REPORT DATED OCTOBER 31, 2007.
3. RECEIVE AND FILE REVENUE & EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED OCTOBER
31,2007.
4. APPROVAL OF A REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH INNOVATIVE
COMMUNITIES FOR STREET IMPROVEMENTS ON AVENUE 58 FOR TRACT
MAP 34243.
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December 18, 2007
5. ACCEPTANCE OF STATE FUNDING FOR SOBRIETY CHECKPOINT
PROGRAM FOR LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES IN THE AMOUNT
OF $27,232 FROM THE CALIFORNIA OFFICE OF TRAFFIC SAFETY (OTS).
6. ACCEPTANCE OF ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRACT
MAP 32453, HIDEAWAY, ND LA GUINTA PARTNERS, LLC.
7. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE FINANCE DIRECTOR
TO ATTEND THE GOVERNMENT FINANCE OFFICERS ASSOCIATION (GFOA)
2008 ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN FORT LAUDERDALE, FLORIDA, JUNE
15-18,2008.
8. APPROVAL OF ANNUAL CONTINUING DISCLOSURE FOR THE CITY OF
LA GUINTA 2000-1 ASSESSMENT DISTRICT FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDING
JUNE 30, 2007.
. ,9: . APPROVAL OF ANNUAL DISTRICT INFORMATION SHEETS FOR THE CITY
OF LA GUINTA ASSESSMENT DISTRICT NOS. 92-1 AND 97-1 FOR FISCAL
YEAR ENDING JUNE 30, 2007.
10. APPROVAL OF THE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY.
11. AUTHORIZATION FOR OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE CITY CLERK TO
ATTEND THE MASTER MUNICIPAL CLERK ACADEMY TO BE HELD IN
SANTA BARBARA, CALIFORNIA, FEBRUARY 6-8,2008.
12. APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER TO GKK WORKS TO PAINT
AND RE-CARPET THE EXISTING CITY HALL.
13. '.APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER TO GKK WORKS TO
INSTALL COVERED PARKING AND ADDITIONAL ACCESSIBLE PARKING
SPACES AT THE LA GUINTA LIBRARY.
,4. APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER TO GKK WORKS TO.
REPLACE THE EXISTING PARKING LOT SOUTH OF CITY HALL.
. 15. APPROVAL OF SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 448, AMENDING
SECTIONS 13.04.070 AND 13.28.040 OF THE LA GUINTA CHARTER AND
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO SECURITY FOR SUBDIVISION
IMPROVEMENTS. (See separate actiOn below.)
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December 18, 2007
16. APPROVAL OF SECOND READING OF ORDINANCE NO. 449, AMENDING
TITLE 9, ZONING, TO PROHIBIT NEW MINI-STORAGE FACILITIES IN THE
COMMERCIAL PARK ZONE AND ALLOW EXISTING FACILITIES TO
CONTINUE TO OPERATE AS LEGAL AND CONFORMING USES.
17. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE
(PS&E), AND AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS THE AVENUE 54
MEDIAN ISLAND LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT NO. 2006-09.
18. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE
(PS&E), AND AUTHORIZATION TO ADVERTISE FOR BIDS THE LAGO
LA QmNTA AND VILLAS AT LA QUINTA SOUND ATTENTUATION WALLS,
PROJECT NO. 2006-02.
19. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT
MAP 30023-6 - TRILOGY, SHEA LA QUINTA, LLC. (RESOLUTION NO.
2007-112)
20. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP FOR PARCEL MAP 33367, LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT
AGENCY, SILVERROCK RESORT. (RESOLUTION NO. 2007-113)
21. ACCEPTANCE OF PARK AVENUE LANDSCAPE IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT
NO. 2006-15, AND APPROVAL OF CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO.2.
22. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT
MAP 33717, QUADRANT, AMERICAN LAND LIQUIDATORS, INC. (See
separate action below.)
23. APPROVAL OF A SUPPLEMENTAL AGREEMENT WITH RIVERSIDE COUNTY
FOR THE USE OF COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT (CDBG)
FUNDS FOR CONSTRUCTION OF IMPROVEMENTS ON A VENIDA
MONTEZUMA ROUNDABOUT RECONSTRUCTION, AND PUBLIC SERVICE
FUNDS FOR THE BOYS AND GIRLS CLUB - LA QUINTA UNIT.
24. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING A DONATION FROM THE
FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY. (RESOLUTION NO. 2007-114)
25. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING AN EXTENSION TO THE
CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP FOR PARCEL MAP 34855,
JC PENNEY, STAMKO DEVELOPMENT COMPANY. (RESOLUTION NO.
2007-115)
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December 18, 2007
26. APPROVAL OF A GRANT APPLICATION FROM THE NATIONAL HIGHWAY
TRAFFIC SAFETY ADMINISTRATION (NHTSA) FOR CLICK IT OR TICKET
(ClOT) MOBILIZATION BY THE LA QUINTA POLICE DEPARTMENT.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to approve
the Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with the exception of
Item Nos. 15 and 22 and with Item Nos. 19, 20, 24, and 25 being approved
by RESOLUTION NOS. 2007-112 through 2007-115 respectively. Motion
carried unanimously.
Item No. 15:
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Osborne/Henderson to
approve the second reading of Ordinance No. 448, amending Sections
13.04.070 and 13.28.040 of the La Quinta Charter and Municipal Code
relating to security for subdivision improvements. Motion carried with
Council Member Kirk abstaining.
Item No. 22:
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt
Resolution No. 2007-116, granting conditional approval of a Final Map and
Subdivision Improvement Agreement for Tract Map 33717, Quadrant,
American Land Liquidators, Inc.
Council Member Osborne stated he previously voted against this, and still
does not support it because the lots are too small and density too high.
Motion carried with Council Member Osborne dissenting.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM THE COACHELLA VALLEY
RECREATION AND PARK DISTRICT TO WAIVE PERMIT FEES AND
APPROPRIATION OF FUNDS.
Community Services Director Hylton presented the staff report.
Stan Ford, representing the Coachella Valley Recreation and Park District,
thanked the Council for considering this matter, and stated the organization
is excited about this project.
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December 18, 2007
Council Member Henderson requested the City be provided with a monthly
report to follow through with the project. Mr. Ford stated the conditions
required by the City have changed the plans and set the project back, but
they will work with staff and provide a report.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Osborne to approve the
waiver of permit fees for the Coachella Valley Park and Recreation District
(CVRPD) for Phase 1 of Coral Mountain Discovery Park, and appropriate
approximately $2,000. Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONSIDERATION OF CITY OF LA QUINTA PROMOTIONAL LOGO.
Management Analyst Casillas presented the staff report.
Council Member Henderson commended staff on a good job in bringing some
options before the City Council.
Council Member Osborne commended staff on a beautiful job; stated he
prefers Logo A as it enhances the history of the City; stated he likes the
wording of La Quinta with the quail in the "0" in Logo B; and stated he does
not particularly like the purple in Logo C.
Council Member Sniff stated Logo B is outstanding; suggested that on the
center logo the Gem from the top be placed on the second line; he would like
to see the contrast so the mountains are apparent; and suggested a
"sparkle" effect immediately above the gem to enhance it.
Council Member Henderson stated she prefers Logo C,but in blue, as it
depicts the mountains, quail and a gem and suggested the lettering in black;
stated Logo A is great, but was used for the 25th Anniversary and should
stand alone; agrees with changing the size of the gem for Logo B and that
the quail in the "Q" is a good addition, but is sensitive about the "sparkles",
and suggested printing the logo on metallic paper.
Council Member Kirk stated he likes the simplicity of all three logos; stated
he likes the reference of the historic nature of the City in Logo A, but a
change may be needed; stated the quail in the "Q" of Logo B is cute, but it's
not clear of the purpose of the wing of the quail in the "Q", and the shape of
the gem is a traditional icon for computer keyboard keys; stated the colors in
Logo C are unusual, which is appealing, and likes the "Gem of the Desert"
motto underneath, but not sure about the quail in the mountains; and is
uncertain about the possibility of combining Logos Band C.
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December 18, 2007
Mayor Adolph stated simplicity is the key and the logos should not have
much detail; stated Logos A and C have too much emphasis on the quail;
conveyed he favors Logo B, and stated the quail in the "0" may not be
dissected by the public well.
Council Member Sniff stated a similar logo was used for the City's 10th
Anniversary celebration, which was a superior logo, and part of that was the
"sparkle" effect; stated he would like to have support for Logo B, with the
modification of using the larger gem; and requested staff report back with
suggested modifications.
Council Member Henderson asked if a logo is approved today, will staff have
banners up in time for the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic. Community Services
Director Hylton stated staff will not be able to make the banners in time for
the event.
Council Member Kirk requested to hear comments from Ms. Carter.
Andrea Carter, explained Logo A provides continuity with a modified 25th
Anniversary logo; stated they can come back with a modified logo using
Logos Band C.
Council Member Sniff suggested referring the matter back to staff to
incorporate Council's comments with a recommendation to modify Logos B
and C.
3. CONSIDERATION OF AN APPROPRIATION FOR ADDITIONAL REQUESTS BY
THE PGA FOR THE BOB HOPE CHRYSLER CLASSIC.
Community Services Director Hylton presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Johnny Pott, stated the PGA visited
the course during over-seeding and voiced concern about frost conditions;
they have requested equipment to speed up the defrosting and to monitor
the moisture factor in the air; they also referred to emitters and drip system
without plantings and requested the matter be addressed; staff is in the
process of reducing the height of the emitters; commented on the
importance of SilverRock making a tremendous impression with the
tournament players; and stated the City has agreed with all conditions from
the PGA tour.
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December 18, 2007
Council Member Osborne asked how much of the $80,000 cost is due to
damage done from Mother Nature. Mr. Pott stated approximately $17,000
is needed for replacing and enhancing plants.
Council Member Sniff stated the coldest temperatures for the area have been
in early January.
Council Member Kirk noted 2/3 of the cost is equipment-related with the
other 1/3 being items made annual, and questioned if the budget will be
adjusted to include these items on an annual basis. Mr. Pott stated some of
the items are due to being first year maintenance of the course.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Kirk to approve an
appropriation of $80,030 from the General Fund to fund additional
preparations for the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic as requested by the PGA.
Motion carried unanimously.
4. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTERS 6.04 AND
6.05 OF TITLE 6 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO THE
COLLECTION, TRANSPORTATION, AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND
RECYCLABLE MATERIALS IN THE CITY.
Council Member Osborne did not participate on this item because of a
conflict of interest due to Burrtec Waste being a client of his firm, and he
recused himself.
In response to Council Member Kirk, Assistant City Manager-Management
Services Plumlee state the minor changes are for the purpose of making the
Municipal Code consistent with the agreement. Council Member Kirk
suggested changes in the future be highlighted for Council review.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Kirk to take up
Ordinance No. 450 by title and number only and waive further reading.
Motion carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 450
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 6.04 AND 6.05 OF TITLE 6 OF THE
LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO THE COLLECTION,
TRANSPORTATION, AND DISPOSAL OF SOLID WASTE AND RECYCLABLE
MATERIALS IN THE CITY.
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December 18, 2007
It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Kirk to introduce Ordinance
No. 450 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES:
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
Council Members Henderson, Kirk, Sniff, Mayor Adolph
None
Council Member Osborne
None
5. CONSIDERATION OF AND DIRECTION REGARDING SILVERROCK AD-HOC
COMMITTEE.
Management Analyst Powell presented the staff report.
In response to Mayor Adolph, City Attorney Jenson reviewed the difference
between an ad-hoc committee and standing committee; there is 'concern
with having a standing committee for a short duration; stated the committee
that was initiated should be disbanded and a new committee created.
Council Member Kirk asked about the consequences of continuing an ad-hoc
committee, to which City Attorney Jenson responded it is a violation of the
Brown Act and considered a criminal act.
Council Member Osborne asked if the committee could continue if the Brown
Act is applied, and City Attorney Jenson stated that is correct.
Mayor Adolph stated having the committee allows for the representatives to
bring back information to the Council and provide input on the development
of SilverRock Resort.
Council Member Sniff stated the committee sunsets at the end of the year,
and the only positive action is to form a standing committee. He prefers not
to challenge the law.
Council Member Henderson suggested the possibility of appointing an ad-hoc
committee for three months to deal with issues related to the Bob Hope
Chrysler Classic, and consider establishing a standing committee after that
time period.
Mayor Adolph stated the committee has been dealing with the Classic event.
City Attorney Jenson stated the committee has also participated in other
issues.
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December 18, 2007
Council Member Henderson suggested the ad hoc committee sunset after
three meetings.
Council Member Kirk stated he will support a motion to that effect.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Kirk to establish
the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic (BHCC) Ad Hoc Committee to address matters
related to the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic at the SilverRock Resort for the
period of Jan 1 - Mar 31, 2008. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Kirk/Henderson to appoint
Mayor Adolph and Council Member Osborne to the BHCC Ad Hoc
Committee. Motion carried unanimously.
6. CONSIDERATION OF AND DIRECTION REGARDING A PLANNING AREAS 1
AND 2 AD-HOC COMMITTEE.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Planning Director Johnson stated
the committee was established in September 2006.
Council Member Osborne stated one of the major areas discussed was
regarding the financial elements of the agreements which have been
approved; and suggested to establish a new ad hoc committee to address
land use issues and guidelines for development in the planning areas.
Council Member stated this committee should take a rest at the time being,
and establish at a later date, if needed.
Council Member Sniff stated if let it rest don't have to do anything.
Council Member Kirk stated there is value in focusing on land use as
suggested, but not much activity until first annexation; and suggested to
bring back in two to three months.
Council Member Osborne informed the Council he will attend the Vista Santa
Rosa Task Force meeting arid bring the information back.
Council Member Sniff stated the movement of the annexation possibility is
incredibly slow and conveyed his frustration of not accomplishing anything
or have one annexation of any sort completed; and stated the Council has
made a decision of the fee amount; and requested the fee be brought back
at the January 15, 2008 for modification; and would like to see the two
annexations proposed move forward, as the delays have been unfortunate;
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December 18, 2007
and stated developers may have lost interest due to the delay in processing
the annexations; and questioned if can give direction to annex the two
properties.
City Manager Genovese stated staff cannot take direction to automatically
annex property, but informed staff is processing the applications.
Council Member Sniff conveyed his understanding of the timeframe taking
up to two years; requested staff take steps to move the matter forward, as
the City is currently not getting anywhere at all.
Council Member Henderson conveyed her support to report back at the
January 15, 2008 meeting as a Business Session item, but was expecting
the matter be brought back at the December 18, 2007 meeting; stated after
the last study session item of this issue, will be surprised to the number of
annexation applications received, if this is the case, there is every reason to
revisit the fee formula; and stated there is some more room to modify the
formula.
City Manager Genovese stated the item can come back at the January 15,
2008 meeting.
Council Member Sniff agreed this item needs to come back as a Business
Session item to make decisions, and move forward to give opportunity to
those interested to annex into the City; stated everything is in limbo and
would like to see something defined.
Mayor Adolph conveyed his agreement with the comments made; and the
housing market will dictate the development.
The City .Council concurred to rest the Ad Hoc Committee and requested staff to
bring back a Business Session item to review the housing unit fee and form-ula.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF GREEN AND SUSTAINABLE LA QUINTA PROGRAM.
Assistant City Manager-Development Services presented the staff report.
Council Member Kirk thanked staff for a comprehensive report; questioned
who in the City Manager's office will be in charge of the program. Assistant
City Manager-Development Services Evans explained the City Manager will
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December 18, 2007
be in charge, with Assistant City Manager-Development Services Evans in
the lead, along with Assistant City Manager-Management Services Plumlee.
In response to Council Member Kirk, City Manager Genovese confirmed that
is how it is currently going to be handled.
Council Member Kirk stated he was curious where the Council can obtain
information on the matter; and questioned if Vista Dunes is only 6% solar
over new Title 24. Assistant City Manager-Development Services Evans
stated building industry representatives have stated getting the 15% under
the California green builder for single-family and multi-family would be a
challenge under existing Title 24; stated to go from 15% to 22% to 28%
would have to look at the active systems; explained staff is looking into solar
at Vista Dunes and explained the Coachella Valley Housing Coalition has
solar in some components of the project, but not for electrical generation;
may be .tough to get where we are today, to 28%, not sure the economy is
ready or cost effective.
Council Member Kirk stated he would like to learn more about 22%;
conveyed his agreement on the belief of the emphasis on 99% which is out
there and needs help which gives a good sense where we may get our best
bang for the buck; stated another thought is the focus on City demonstration
projects, and generally see a heavy hand of government in those projects
which may not be transferable into the private sector; stated he prefers a
market based approach, setting targets and letting the private sector figure
out how to achieve the projects.
Council Member Henderson conveyed her appreciation for the detailed report
in response to Council's request; expressed concerns with the LEEDS
Program regarding looking into the future and modifying costs for
certification; agrees with Council Member Kirk regarding the need to reach
those homes in pre-Title 24; encouraged staff to promote programs to entice
residents to participate; stated the City must rehab old projects; stated
demonstration programs will play a part in increasing demand and reducing
costs; supports cost-effective view of report; and stated the City may have
an opportunity to create a pamphlet and deliver to neighborhood watch
meetings.
Assistant City Manager-Development Services Evans stated in talking to
Coachella Valley Water District (CVWD) and 110, staff will have to take these
programs to neighborhood meetings and speak in person.
Council Member Osborne stated this is a great issue to focus on and
appreciates staff's efforts; stated the average cost of homes in La Quinta
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December 18, 2007
has increased to over $400,000, and to be mindful of the cost of the homes
and price out of the market; conveyed his appreciation of what staff is doing
on our own by modifying the apartment complex of Vista Dunes; stated the
community cannot expect younger families to live in La Ouinta if the price of
homes continue to increase.
Council Member Sniff conveyed his remembrance when first on the City
Council and suggested to strongly not adopt every County architecture plan
that is not suitable for the City; stated Mr. Weeks indicated there would be
no problem of water for 100 years, but now there is every indication there
has been subsidence; stated the City needs to look at water use, and
overflow into the streets; stated must put pressure of those wasting water,
and there should be some effort made to deal with water waste; stated the
program demonstration should be conducted in the homes by showing how
to do a retrofit for landscaping and the potential for additional insulation for
conservation of electricity; stated demonstration in the neighborhoods is
more effective and suggested an identifying sign for conservation
modification at residences; stated the City is approximately 90% built out
and new requirements will be effective in the remainjng development, but
the new regulation will not solve the problem that has built up over the
years; conveyed his astonishment solar heating has not be incorporated at
SjlverRock Resort; state the City is going to run out of water and have a
difficult time with electricity, and if we can tailor the demand, we will be
better off; stated the City can deal with the water issue effectively and
suggested to move with some dispatch; suggested to keep programs as
simple and straight forward as possible and as productive as possible.
Council Member Kirk addressed the focus of nuisance water, and stated the
City recently approved a program with CVWD.
Mayor Adolph agreed the City is moving forward on this matter; stated the
emphasis should be on what can be saved on utility bills; stated the City of
La Quinta may not receive as much press coverage as the City of Palm
Desert; conveyed his agreement with speaking at neighborhood meetings to
explain the savings by conservation.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
League of California Cities - Council Member Henderson stated an email has been
received from Mr. Dave Wellman, regarding Prop. A, and stated the issue has been
a major discussion; and stated it is understood that Sacramento has full intention of
attacking City funds.
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December 18, 2007
Coachella Valley Mosquito Vector Control District - Council Member Henderson
stated she received a phone call from a reporter from The Desert Sun who
questioned which district had the largest reserve account in the State of California;
complimented the District for the high balance in a reserve account; stated is an
aggressive research and development district; addressed fire ants; stated the revisit
of reserve accounts is for various classification.
Riverside County Transportation Commission - Council Member Henderson stated
she served her final meeting as Chair which was an honor and has been named
Woman of the Year of the Women of Transportation Chapter, Riverside/San Diego
Counties.
Sunline Transit Agency/Sunline Services Group - Mayor Adolph stated there are no
reportable actions.
* * * * * * * * * * * * *
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
City Attorney
City Attorney Jenson stated the Save Our La Ouinta Neighborhood filed an appeal
to the recent litigation.
Building and Safety Department
Council Member Henderson questioned the response to public comments made by
Janice Marken regarding the residence across from her home. Building and Safety
Director Hartung explained a code enforcement case has been initiated. Council
Member Henderson questioned if the issue has been going on for four years.
Building and Safety Director Hartung stated he was unsure it has been going on
that long but it is an ongoing case with the construction.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Building and Safety Director Hartung stated the
Enclave house is moving forward and making progress.
Community Services Department
Community Services Director Hylton reported staff has received 1 ,000 tickets to
observe the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic which will be available at the SilverRock
Resort and at the Civic Center.
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December 18, 2007
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS - None
Mayor Adolph stated he attended the La Ouinta Chamber Mixer at Estancia and
collected many toys with the Marines; stated Assistant City Manager-Management
Services Plumlee attended the Blue Light event where Sheriff Sniff was in
attendance as well.
Council Member Sniff stated his son, Stan, said he spoke with the Mayor and
stated he was extremely nice and represented the City well.
Council recessed to and until 7:00 P.M.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
PRESENTATIONS - None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION
APPROVING PROPOSALS AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO
SUBMIT APPLICATIONS TO RIVERSIDE COUNTY ECONOMIC
DEVELOPMENT AGENCY FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK GRANT
FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008/2009.
Planning Director Johnson presented the staff report.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:11 p.m.
There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING
CLOSED at 7:11 p.m.
RESOLUTION NO. 2007-117
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING PROPOSALS, AND AUTHORIZING THE CITY
MANAGER TO SUBMIT APPLICATIONS FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
BLOCK GRANT FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR 2008/2009.
City Council Minutes
17
December 18, 2007
It was moved by Council Members Kirk/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
2007-117, as corrected. Motion carried unanimously.
2. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 9.
CHAPTER 9.60 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE MODIFYING THE CITY'S
DENSITY BONUS AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING INCENTIVES IN
ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW.
Planning Director Johnson commented this matter is specifically a need to be
in compliance with State law.
Planning Manager Sawyer presented the staff report.
Council Member Osborne conveyed his concerned of mandated density
imposed by Sacramento.
In response to Mayor Adolph, Planning Manager Sawyer explained the
Senate Bill was passed two years ago and staff is now coming into
compliance to it.
Council Member Henderson stated this Bill has been presented to the Council
previously, and it can entail many pieces of legislation; stated instead of
encouraging the type of communities this City had developed, it encourages
unappealing development, but have no choice to adopt the regulation.
Planning Director Johnson explained the City also has options through the
Redevelopment Agency to fund these options; if come to disagreement with
developer certainly there is no assurance or requirement to fund the program
and particular project.
Council Member Henderson stated she recognizes the fact the City is
fortunate to have that position as many do not.
Council Member Kirk stated he suspects this has much to do about nothing
for the City of La Quinta, and doesn't remember a project that didn't involve
a subsidy from the Agency; don't know if any project can be done without
massive public subsidy; does not like these kind of mandates and thinks they
are wrong.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:23 p.m.
There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING
CLOSED at 7:23 p.m.
City Council Minutes
18
December 18, 2007
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to take up
Ordinance No. 451 by title and number only and waive further reading.
Motion carried by a vote of 4-1, Council Member Kirk dissenting.
ORDINANCE NO. 451
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING TITLE 9 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE
TO MODIFY THE CITY'S DENSITY BONUS AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING
INCENTIVES IN ACCORDANCE WITH STATE LAW.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to introduce Ordinance
No. 451 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES:
Council Members Henderson, Osborne, Sniff,
Mayor Adolph
Council Member Kirk
None
None
NOES:
ABSTAIN:
ABSENT:
The City Council 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 Government Code Section 54957.1
(Brown Act).
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor Adolph adjourned the City Council meeting.
submitted,