2011 06 07 CC MinutesLA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
JUNE 7, 2011
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: Council Members Franklin, Henderson, Sniff, Mayor Adolph
ABSENT: Council Member Evans
MOTION - It was moved by Council Member Sniff /Henderson to excuse the
absence of Council Member Evans from the meeting. Motion carried unanimously.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
CLOSED SESSION
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS, SKI HARRISON AND THOMAS
P. GENOVESE REGARDING NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE LA QUINTA CITY
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION
54957.6 MEET AND CONFER PROCESS
2. CONFERENCE WITH CITY ATTORNEY PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE
SECTION 54956.9(c) RE: INITIATION OF LITIGATION (ONE MATTER -
PETITION FOR APPOINTMENT OF RECEIVER FOR 46 -810 HIGHLAND
PALMS DRIVE, LA QUINTA)
Council recessed to the Redevelopment Agency and to Closed Session to and until
the hour of 4:00 p.m.
4.00 P_M_
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).
Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
City Attorney Jensen announced the City Council move by Council Members
Sniff /Franklin pertaining to Closed Session Item No. 2 Closed Session Sniff /Franklin
to authorize the City Attorney to initiate a petition for the appointment of a
City Council Minutes 2 JUNE 7, 2011
receivership for property located at 46 -810 Highland Palms, La Quints. Motion
carried by a vote of 4 -0 -1, Council Member Evans absent.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA - Confirmed
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS - None
1. Museum Manager Joanna Stickle and La Quinta Library Manager Beth Foley
presented the Quarterly Reports for January through March 2011 respectively.
Council Member Henderson expressed concern of AB 138 regarding the prohibition
of privatizing public libraries and stated it is anticipated the bill will pass; stated she
believes our current management agreement should remain intact; and further
stated she is constantly asked about the successful management of our library.
Library Manager Foley stated privatization of public libraries will enable an expert
with the appropriate qualifications to manage a library effectively.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to approve the City
Council Minutes of May 17, 2011, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED JUNE 7, 2011
2. APPROVAL OF AN AMENDMENT TO THE BANKING SERVICES CONTRACT
WITH WELLS FARGO BANK
3. APPROVAL OF A ONE YEAR CONTRACT EXTENSION WITH VINTAGE
ASSOCIATES FOR THE PARK LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES
CONTRACT FOR FISCAL YEAR .2011 -2012
4. AUTHORIZATION OF OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE MEMBER OF THE CITY
COUNCIL TO ATTEND THE LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES REVENUE AND
TAXATION COMMITTEE MEETING TO BE HELD JUNE 17, 2011 IN
SACRAMENTO, CALIFORNIA
City Council Minutes 3 JUNE 7, 2011
5. AUTHORIZATION OF OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ONE MEMBER OF THE CITY
COUNCIL TO ATTEND THE NATIONAL LEAGUE OF CITIES BOARD OF
DIRECTORS MEETING TO BE HELD JULY 7 -9, 2011 IN CHARLOTTE,
NORTH CAROLINA
6. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT WITH YOUNG
ELECTRIC SIGN COMPANY FOR PROJECT NO. LMC 2008 -14, LANDSCAPE
LIGHTING MAINTENANCE SERVICES FOR LANDSCAPE & LIGHTING
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89 -1
7. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO THE AGREEMENT WITH TESERRA
FOR PROJECT NO. LMC 2008-13, LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES
FOR LANDSCAPE & LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-1
8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE OFFSITE AND ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP NO.
29436, HIDDEN CANYON, TRANS WEST HOUSING, INC. (RESOLUTION
NO. 2011-038)
9. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 3 TO THE MAINTENANCE SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH CLEANSTREET FOR MECHANICAL STREET SWEEPING
SERVICES
10. APPROVAL OF ASSIGNMENT AND ASSUMPTION AGREEMENTS FOR
TRACT MAP NO. 30092, PIAZZA SERENA, K. HOVNANIAN FORECAST
HOMES, INC.
11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE ON -SITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP NO. 32070,
CODORNIZ, RJT HOMES, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011-039)
12. ACCEPTANCE OF A GRANT OF EASEMENT AND AGREEMENT FOR
ROADWAY PURPOSES AT DUNE PALMS ROAD AND "A" STREET WITH
DESERT SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT
13. APPROVAL TO EXCUSE COMMISSIONER MARK WEBER'S ABSENCES
FROM THE JUNE 14 AND JUNE 28, 2011 PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETINGS
14. APPROVAL TO EXCUSE COMMISSIONER MARIA PUENTE'S ABSENCES
FROM THE JUNE 16 AND JULY 21, 2011 HISTORIC PRESERVATION
COMMISSION MEETINGS
City Council Minutes 4 JUNE 7, 2011
15. APPROVAL OF A STANDARD DOMESTIC WATER SYSTEM AND
SANITATION SYSTEM INSTALLATION AGREEMENT WITH COACHELLA
VALLEY WATER DISTRICT FOR THE CORAL MOUNTAIN APARTMENTS
16. ACCEPTANCE OF COLONEL PAIGE MIDDLE SCHOOL RESTROOM PROJECT
NO. 2010-05, AND APPROPRIATION OF ADDITIONAL FUNDING
17. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ENGINEER'S ESTIMATE
(PS &E) OF PROBABLE CONSTRUCTION COSTS AND AUTHORIZATION TO .
ADVERTISE FOR BID THE FISCAL YEAR 2011 -2012 SLURRY SEAL
PROGRAM, PROJECT NO. 2010-15
18. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE USE OF
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FUNDING FOR A PURCHASE AND SALE
AGREEMENT AMONG THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, THE LA QUINTA
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY, AND RICHARD AND PATRICE VARGt FOR
PROPERTY LOCATED NORTH OF LA QUINTA COMMUNITY PARK (APNs
773- 072 -005, 773 - 073 -021 THROUGH 027) AND MAKING CERTAIN
FINDINGS PURSUANT TO HEALTH AND SAFETY CODE SECTION 33445
(RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -040)
19. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION CONSENTING TO THE USE OF
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY FUNDING FOR, AND APPROVING PURCHASE
AND SALE AGREEMENTS BETWEEN THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, AND (1)
THOMAS H. CASEY, CHAPTER 7 BANKRUPTCY TRUSTEE FOR 5 -PLEX
LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF AVENIDA LA FONDA (APN 770-125 -
003), AND (2) YESSAYIAN FAMILY LTD. PARTNERSHIP FOR 5 -PLEX
LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF . MAIN STREET (APN 770-124-004),
AND MAKING CERTAIN FINDINGS PURSUANT TO HEALTH AND SAFETY
CODE SECTION 33445 (RESOLUTION NO. 2011-041)
MOTION — It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to approve
the Consent Calendar as recommended and with -item Nos. 8, 11, 18 and 19
being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2011-038 through 2011-041
respectively. Motion carried unanimously.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF IMPROVEMENTS AND AN APPROPRIATION OF
FUNDING FOR THE FRITZ BURNS DOG PARK
Community Services Director Hylton presented the staff report.
Council Member Sniff asked what is the definition of a small dog.
Community Services Director Hylton stated there is no standard for a
City Council Minutes . 5 JUNE 7, 2011
definition of a small dog, but typically a dog that is 25 or 30 pounds or less
is considered as a small dog. Council Member Sniff. questioned that there is
no standard. Community Services Director Hylton confirmed.
Council Member Henderson stated that there is no staff present at dog
parks. Community Services Hylton confirmed. Council Member Henderson
asked if there is staff present at the skate parks. Community Services
Director Hylton stated there is no staff present at the skate parks on a
regular basis.
Mayor Adolph stated he looks back to when the city did not have any dog
parks but proceeded to establish them because of the desire of the
community; stated he prefers to establish new amenities once and correctly
the first time, and expressed his concern of refurbishing the dog parks.
Joan Bittle, 52445 Avenida Bermudas, stated she was dismayed to learn the
dog park at Fritz Burns Park was going to be limited to small dogs; and
expressed her dissention of having to drive to take her large dog to another
dog park; and further stated Fritz Burns Park is not maintained well.
Council Member Henderson thanked Mrs. Bittle for making her comments
and assured her no decision has been made as of yet, and it is appropriate to
consider different options.
Kathleen Fitzpatrick, 81-824 Contento Street, Chairperson of the Community
Services Commission, stated is was the desire of the Commission to make
an equitable recommendation regarding dog parks; explained the
Commissioners have reviewed the use of the Seasons and Pioneer Parks;
explained the deciding factor was that the Seasons Park was designed to
serve the residents. of the housing development and be utilized by both large
and small dog owners; residents expressed concern of future traffic impacts
to the area; stated six months is not enough time to determine user patterns
of the parks; explained Fritz Burns Park is almost 15 years old and expressed
concerns of the aesthetic issues of the park, and it would behoove the City
to invest in this facility; and commended staff for their assistance in this
issue.
Thom Gottberg, 78290 Desert Fall Way, stated before purchasing his home
in the Seasons development, he had asked staff about the traffic impact for
Seasons Park, as 90% of the traffic passes by his home; stated a small dog
owner can use both areas as the small and big dog parks are functional;
expressed concern of increased usage of the park and the lack of parking;
and requested the City Council not make any additions to the Seasons Dog
Park.
City Council Minutes 6 JUNE 7, 2011
Marilyn Miller Ginsberg, 55142 Southern Hills, conveyed her disappointment
of the usage of dog parks strictly for small dogs; stated only 5% of the
Seasons Dog Park is allocated for small dog use which is not enough;
recommended Scenario #2 of the Community Services Commission report be
implemented; stated the residents have expressed their concern of traffic
impacts; suggested the curbs in the area be marked with 45 minute time
limit parking to alleviate traffic impact; stated Fritz Burns Dog Park has been
a deplorable dog park with no trees or areas to sit; and stated small dog
owners feel disenfranchised because of the lack of increased space for small
dog use.
Gwen Dixson, 78525 Avenida Ultimo, gave historical background regarding
the establishment of dog parks in the community; stated many communities
do not have the luxury of discussing this topic; stated she has heard many
negative comments from the dog owners but the dogs seem to be enjoying
the space made available for all dogs; and conveyed her support of the
community and the City's park system.
Kathy Gottberg, 78290 Desert Fall Way, stated she is in favor of renovating
the Fritz Burns Park as it will alleviate the impact to the Seasons Park and
community; residents did not have any idea of the impact the use of the park
has been; stated she is a small dog owner and her dog has plenty of room at
Seasons Park to roam; suggested small and big dogs alternate days for use
of the park; and stated the residents are happy with the facility overall.
Council Member Franklin asked Mrs. Gottberg why all dog parks couldn't be
open for small or big dogs. Mrs. Gottberg explained the small dog area
provides a safety area for her dog.
Shane Halperin, 50 -115 Malibu Court, stated she agrees with the comments
made by Mrs. Miller; stated small and large dogs cannot utilize the parks
together without designated areas and explained her small dog's leg was
broken from playing with a large dog; stated there isn't enough room for
small dogs to run at Seasons Park; stated if Fritz Burns Dog Park is approved
to be improved, suggested to replace the fencing as her dog is able to
escape underneath the fence; suggested signage designating limits for use of
large and small dogs.
Council Member Henderson stated it seems there is a people problem and
not a dog problem; this matter is a challenge to all; expressed concern of
assessing future traffic impacts; acknowledges many dog owners have a
routine to exercise their dogs; agrees Fritz Burns Dog Park needs
improvement; dog issues are a result of owners not monitoring their dogs;
City Council Minutes 7 JUNE 7, 2011
there is a need to have cooperation from people of both sides of this issue;
expressed concern of designating the dog park at Fritz Burns Park for small
dogs; and is undecided on the issue at this point.
Council Member Franklin stated the first thing that comes to mind is that no
solution will make everyone happy; agreed with the comments made by Ms.
Dixon that we need to be appreciative of the amenities we currently have;
there are three dog parks for a population of over 37,000; expressed
concern of the impact of parking for the dog park; asked if there is any way
parking can be restricted to the park site and not residential areas.
Community Services Director Hylton stated staff will need to consult the
Public Works Department and Engineering, as they are public streets, and
explained most visitors to the park do park along the side of the park, but
there are occasions where visitors park on the residential side. Council
Member Franklin further expressed her concern of visitors respecting the
residents and being mindful as they unload their dogs.
City Manager Genovese stated staff could install signs designating parking
for the park or issue permits for the residents but. monitoring parking would
be a challenge.
Mayor Adolph asked if a traffic study was conducted when the park was
designed. Public Works Director Jonasson stated there was no study
performed. Mayor Adolph stated it is obvious there is a problem with the
parking in the area and that there is a need to alleviate the problem. Public
Works Director Jonasson stated the attraction of the dog park will remain at
Seasons Park, but improvement to dog parks in other locations may help
alleviate the problem.
Council Member Franklin stated there is not enough information to make a
decision at this time; she is not in favor of designating Fritz Burns with a
small dog park; and stated there is a parking issue at Seasons is critical.
Council Member Sniff stated this issue is a dilemma; it seems the City
Council does not have a complete solution at this time; there is a need to
look into the parking issue at Seasons Park and have staff report back to the
City Council with solutions for consideration; the City Council is currently not
prepared to deal with this issue; suggested staff report back with options for
parking signage; and suggested the City Council make no changes at this
time.
Mayor Adolph stated the issue today is the consideration of improvements to
Fritz Burns Park and the appropriation of funding; asked if staff is designating
funding in the budget for the improvements. City Manager Genovese stated
City Council Minutes 8 JUNE 7, 2011
the City Council could approve an appropriation at this time and it will be
included in the preliminary budget for consideration of the Council.
Mayor Adolph stated he prefers to see a design of what,the improvements
would be at Fritz Burns Park. City Manager Genovese explained the
challenge with Fritz Burns Park is the location because there is no additional
space; and suggested refreshing the park due to the excessive use of the
park, as there is no room to expand the dog park. Mayor Adolph asked if
there is any way to redesign park to enable expansion of the dog park can be
made. City Manager Genovese explained the dog park is bordered by the
skate park, Francis Hack Drive, walkways and seating area, and a parking
lot.
Council Member Sniff stated the park is as big as it can be.
Council Member Henderson stated the Community Services Commission took
all these issues under consideration; there is no room for expansion; the park
is heavily used by families for other activities; stated she is unsure there is
anything left to review and recommend by staff; thanked the Commission for
their consideration and work invested in the issues; and conveyed her
support of making the improvements needed, but not designate it as a small
dog park and leave as multi -use.
Council Member Sniff conveyed his support with the suggestion of
supporting staff's recommendation, without the designation as a small dog
park.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin to approve the
renovation of the Fritz Burns Dog Park for $10,000, without the designation
as a small dog park, and appropriate funding from Quimby funds.
Council Member Henderson stated it is important for the residents
understand that Quimby funds are established by a fee paid by developers
specifically for park development and improvements.
Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONSIDERATION OF A MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING BETWEEN
THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE REGARDING
THE POTENTIAL WIDENING OF FRED WARING DRIVE BETWEEN ADAMS
STREET AND PORT'MARIA ROAD'
City Council Minutes 9 JUNE 7, 2011
Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report.
Juan Perez, 4080 Lemon Street, Riverside, Riverside County Transportation
Department Director, introduced Mojahed Salama, Riverside County
Transportation Department, Desert Office Manager, Ed Ang, Ang
Engineering, and presented the proposed improvements.
Mayor Adolph asked if the wall will be installed on private property and who
will maintain it. Mr. Perez stated it is not determined where the wall will be
installed at this time and if it is on public property, it will be under the City's
jurisdiction.
Public Works Director Jonasson explained an easement is obtained for the
construction of the wall and after completion, it is the homeowners'
association's responsibility to maintain the wall.
Mayor Adolph conveyed his concern of maintaining the wall if it is installed
on private property. Public Works Director Jonasson stated the contractor is
responsible for at least a year for any defects in the wall. Mayor Adolph
conveyed his concern that the County is installing the wall and asked if that
alleviates responsibility by the City. Public Works Director Jonasson
confirmed.
City Attorney Jenson explained if the County is going to issue the contract
and be working with the contractor, the County will be responsible; the
Council will not be permitted to construct the wall on private property until
an easement is secured by an agreement with the homeowners' association
to maintain the wall; also the City would require an encroachment permit.
Mayor Adolph conveyed his desire to make clear the responsibilities of the
parties involved for the construction and maintenance of the sound wall.
Mr. Perez explained there is an option to add to the existing wall and a
feasibility study would be conducted; and continued the presentation.
Council Member Franklin asked what the elevation is from the edge of the
Fred Waring Drive to the left turn .lane at La Quinta Palms. Mr. Perez stated
both sides will 'be elevated 2%: feet on the north side and two feet on the
south, with minimal change at the across the left turn lane.
Mayor Adolph asked what the brown area on the map depicted on the north
side of the street. Mr. Perez explained that area is a 21 foot designated
parking area, and will be differentiated with stamped concrete.
City Council Minutes 10 JUNE 7, 2011
Council Member Franklin asked if all lanes will be 11 feet wide and if there
will be a bicycle lane. Mr. Perez confirmed and explained the bike lane is
five feet wide. Council Member Franklin asked if there will be any homes
eliminated. Mr. Perez stated it is not anticipated to require acquisition of any
property.
Council Member Henderson asked if the residents are happy with the
proposed improvements. Mr. ° Perez explained there have been a series of
community meetings and the County has taken all concerns in consideration
to this proposal.
Council Member Henderson stated there have been many issues previously
discussed; the Council will not make everyone happy as this is a complex
and difficult problem; and stated there were mistakes made when the homes
on the north side of Fred Waring Drive were permitted to be built.
Mayor Adolph stated many of the high power poles are close to the roadside
and asked if any will be relocated. Mr. Perez explained the curb line will be
moved slightly but will not impact the set -back of the power poles located at
the entrance of La Quinta Palms.
Mr. Perez completed his presentation with a review of improvements at Old
Harbor Drive and Port Maria Road.
Council Member Henderson asked if there is access to the homes back on
Port Maria Road, and asked if the development goes through another street.
Mr. Salama stated he is unsure of the access to the gated community.
Ron Rowell, 79320 Fred Waring Road, addressed the first house on the
northwest corner of Fred Waring Drive and Old Harbor Road, and stated it
does not have adequate backup area from the driveway.
Council Member Henderson asked if this is an ongoing issue with the
residents and if it has been discussed with them. Mr. Salama confirmed.
Mr. Rowell requested the lanes on Fred Waring Drive approaching Adams
Street be reduced to 11 feet to enable the parking and back -up lane be
increased to 14 feet; and further requested mitigation be conducted for a
sound wall for the homes on the north side of Fred Waring Drive. Public
Works Jonasson explained breaks in a sound wall for driveways on the north
side would not be very effective.
City Council Minutes 11 JUNE 7, 2011
Mr. Rowell explained there is additional access to the gated community on
Port Maria Road from Adams Street, and there currently is no left in or out
on Fred Waring Drive.
Nancy Keever, 79401 Horizon Palm Circle, thanked Council Member Franklin
for visiting and observing the situation at La Quinta Palms; stated there have
been many meetings with the County and the City which have been a
comfortable experience; stated the County has pleased some of the residents
all of the time; stated the homeowners of La Quinta Palms are happy with
the proposed sound wall; and conveyed the La Quinta Palms Association's
support of the proposed improvement.
Terry Finley, 43950 Old Harbor Drive, requested an explanation of the
improvements proposed for the intersection of Dune Palms Road and Fred
Waring Drive. Mr. Perez explained the proposed improvements of the
median extending pass Old Harbor Drive with the opportunity for u- turns.
Ms. Finley asked if there will be one turn lane from Fred Waring Drive onto
Dune Palms Road. Mr. Perez confirmed. Ms. Finley requested the left turn
lane on Fred Waring Drive at Dune Palms Road be extended further east to
accommodate the traffic stacking on Fred Waring Drive. Mr. Perez explained
the lane is proposed to be 220 feet to allow stacking.
Council Member Henderson explained the proposed improvements still need
to be reviewed by City engineers.
Ms. Finley requested a sound wall to mitigate traffic noise on the north side
of Fred Waring Drive.
Bob McConnell, 79380 Fred Waring Drive, asked if the road will be raised on
the north side of Fred Waring Drive across the entrance of La Quinta Palms.
Mr. Perez explained the road will be raised 2Yz feet.
Mr. Perez stated the County will continue to work with the residents; and
explained rubberized asphalt will be utilized to help mitigate the traffic noise.
Council Member Henderson stated each Council Member serves on a
committee of Assemblyman Benoit and the concerns expressed from County
residents will be conveyed to him.
Mayor Adolph asked if any correspondence has been received from residents
on the south side. Public Works Director Jonasson stated staff has not
received any correspondence since the beginning of the process. Mayor
Adolph stated that the City Council can assume the residents are satisfied
City Council Minutes 12 JUNE 7, 2011
with the improvements. Public Works Director Jonasson stated the sound
wall and the raised intersection at La Quints Palms alleviated most concerns
of the residents.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to approve
the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the County of Riverside
regarding the potential widening of Fred Waring Drive, between Adams
Street and Port Maria Road subject to any minor revisions approved by the
City Attorney and City Manager, and authorize the City Manager to execute
the same. Motion carried unanimously.
STUDY SESSION - NONE
PUBLIC COMMENTS
Terry Siemens, P.O. Box 374, Rancho Mirage, addressed the use of smart meters
by Southern California Edison (SCE); explained most meters installed are wireless;
conveyed concern of dishwasher and computer malfunctioning due to the location
of the neighbor's wireless smart meter; stated a number of people have filed
complaints with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) to establish an
alternative program who have established an 'opt -out' program from the installation
of smart meters; stated districts and city -owned utilities are not mandated by the
CPUC; and requested the City adopt a resolution opposing the installation of smart
meters.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
League of California Cities - Council Member Henderson reported the League
continues to give attention to the redevelopment reform proposals included in the
proposed budget, and there haven't been any side discussions.
Animal Campus Commission _ Council Member Franklin reported the facility has
obtained a person in charge of adoptions.
Mountains Conservancy - Council Member Franklin reported Kevin McKernan has
been retained as the new Executive Director.
III) Energy Consumers' Advisory Committee - Council Member Franklin explained
the smart meters utilized by Imperial Irrigation District YID) are being used simply to
read the meter usage, and does not wish to monitor or control the energy inside
the house; explained the Energy Cost Adjustment on July 2011 residential invoices
will float from 0 to 4.1 cents per unit due to the reduction of the cost to purchase
energy; stated Station No. 53 in El Centro is being replaced and funded by three
bond issues.
City Council Minutes 13 JUNE 7, 2011
Sunline Transit Agency / Sunline Services Group - Mayor Adolph reported the
budget is balanced with approximately $500,000 in surplus, and will be presented
to the Board later this month.
CVAG Executive Board - Mayor Adolph reported they have a balanced budget;
approved a contract for a consulting team and expenditure to implement the Energy
Efficient Strategic Plan, The Green Government Initiative, and Coachella Valley
Association of Governments (CVAG) was awarded $4.91 million from Southern
California Edison.
• x•• s s s w■ s■
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Public Works Director Jonasson announced ground breaking is scheduled for
Tuesday, June 14, 2011, beginning at 9:00 a.m.
Council Member Henderson asked how the Housing Element is progressing.
Planning Director Johnson received a 'thumbs -up' from State Department of
Housing Community Development (HCD) staff and is scheduled for the Planning
Commission this month and will be brought before the City Council in July.
Council Member Henderson asked what the high range of density was. Planning
Director Johnson stated the high is in the low 20 unit range, and staff has
proposed an overlay over the Highway 111 corridor and the Village area that will
coinciding with the General Plan Update and allow higher density in a mixed use
environment.
Council Member Henderson asked if there was extensive discussion of the overlay.
Planning Director Johnson explained he has responding to the requests of the HCD
staff; still have to conduct public hearings for the Planning Commission and the
City Council. Council Member Henderson asked if scheduling one or two public
hearings for the Planning Commission and how long will the City Council have the
preliminary plan to review. Planning Johnson stated staff will be presenting the
plan to the Planning Commission and then to the City Council a month later, and
will be made available three weeks before being presented at the public hearing to
the City Council; and explained the General Plan is scheduled to be presented to
the City Council in December 2011 /January 2012.
City Council Minutes 14 JUNE 7, 2011
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS
FESTIVAL (MAYOR ADOLPH)
Mayor Adolph stated the citizens in La Quinta near the venue have
complained about traffic on Jefferson Street, which has been resolved;
complaints regarding the access to gated communities and noise have also
been received; stated staff is working with the City of Indio and event
promoters to mitigate the concerns of the residents. Further stated the
President of the Mountain View Homeowners' Association stated they were
promised roving security by the event promoter; and stated staff needs to
ensure that all requirements are met during future events.
Council Member Henderson agreed Council Members have received many
complaints and it is important that staff voice issues affecting the City.
Mayor Adolph stated the City Manager will be dealing with the issue.
Council Member Franklin conveyed her concern of making appointments to
the Commission alphabetically especially when an application is submitted to
more than one commission, particularly of an incumbent member on the
Community Services Commission also applying to the Planning Commission.
Council Member Henderson stated it is a choice of the applicants to be
considered for more than one commission. Council Member Henderson
stated it may be in the best interest to address appointments first with the
Planning Commission.
City Manager Genovese explained the order the commissions will be
addressed for interviews and appointment.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
PRESENTATIONS - None
PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
City Council Minutes 15 JUNE 7 2011
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin
to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectf Ily submitted,
VERONICA J. NTECINO, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California