2011 10 18 CC MinutesLA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
OCTOBER 18, 2011
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of
3:30 p.m. by Mayor Adolph.
MOTION — It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin to excuse the absence
of Council Member Henderson. Motion carried by a vote of 4 -0.
PRESENT: Council Members Evans, Franklin, Sniff, Mayor Adolph
ABSENT: Council Member Henderson
CLOSED SESSION
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS, SKI HARRISON AND TERRY
DEERINGER, REGARDING NEGOTIATIONS WITH THE LA QUINTA CITY
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION
54957.6 MEET AND CONFER PROCESS
Council recessed to Closed Session to and until the hour of 4:00 p.m.
4:00 P.M.
Council Member Henderson arrived and was present at the meeting.
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
Siah Nix, Unit Director, President Gerald R. Ford Boys and Girls Club, introduced
students in attendance who thanked the City Council for their support of the
program.
Council Member Sniff stated that he had made the motion to build the Boys and
Girls Club and explained the current location was not the original location
considered.
City Council. Minutes 2 October 18, 2011
Cheryl Isen, 79015 Delta Street, Bermuda Dunes, referenced a letter sent by the
City of La Quinta stating the approval of the Fred Waring Drive street improvement
has been rescinded, and asked for an explanation; conveyed concern of
expenditure of over $100,000 for the project; and stated Coachella Valley
Economic Partnership (CVEP) and the County of Riverside have composed a letter
to the City also asking for an explanation.
Mayor Adolph stated Ms. Isen is entitled to an explanation and requested staff to
respond.
City Manager Genovese stated staff can report back at the November 1, 2011 City
Council meeting.
Council Member Henderson explained that the City is currently in negotiations with
this matter; and stated the City Council is as concerned as Ms. Isen is.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA - Confirmed
ANNOUNCEMENTS - None
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Adolph stated the City of La Quinta was a co- sponsor for the Prestige Golf
Tournament, and presented a plaque he received on behalf of the City Council in
appreciation for the City's support of the event.
Mayor Adolph announced the passing of Lucia Moran and recognized her service as
a Planning Commissioner, involvement in the Soap Box Derby, and many other
community efforts; and stated the City has conveyed its condolences.
Council Member Evans announced a Celebration of Life event is scheduled for
Saturday, October 22, 2011, at the Senior Center from 2:00 to 4:00 p.m.
Council Member Sniff stated Mrs. Moran was an active, productive and valuable
member of the community; was involved in many things and did them all well;
stated he will personally miss her as she was a unique and special person; she was
a top -rank citizen and she made the City of La Quinta a better place.
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS - None
City Council Minutes 3 October 18, 2011
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION — It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Evans to approve the City
Council Minutes of October 4, 2011, as submitted.
Council Member Henderson requested a correction of the minutes on Page 5,
second paragraph from the bottom, regarding Business. Session Item 3 and her
statement of utilities being underground; she explained her reference was in
relation to installing a street light and upholding the dark sky ordinance.
Motion amended to approve the City Council Minutes of October 4, 2011 with the
changes mentioned. Motion carried unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED OCTOBER 18, 2011
2. RECEIVE AND FILE TREASURER'S REPORT DATED AUGUST 31, 2011
3. RECEIVE AND FILE REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE REPORT DATED AUGUST
31, 2011 AND INVESTMENT SUMMARY REPORT FOR THE QUARTER
ENDING SEPTEMBER 30, 2011
4. TRANSMITTAL OF SINGLE AUDIT REPORT ON FEDERAL ASSISTANCE
PROGRAM AS OF JUNE 30, 2011
5. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING CASH DONATIONS FROM
RUTAN AND TUCKER, ROSENOW SPEVACEK GROUP, NAI CONSULTING,
INC., AND TERRA NOVA PLANNING & RESEARCH, INC. FOR THE
EMPLOYEE RECOGNITION BANQUET (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -085)
6. APPROVAL TO EXCUSE INVESTMENT ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER DAVID
PARK FROM THE OCTOBER 12, 2011 INVESTMENT ADVISORY BOARD
MEETING
7. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP 33076 -1, THE
MADISON CLUB, EAST OF MADISON, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -086)
8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE OFFSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP 33076 -1, THE
MADISON CLUB, EAST OF MADISON, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -087)
City Council Minutes 4 October 18, 2011
9. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP 33076 -2, THE
MADISON CLUB, EAST OF MADISON, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -088)
10. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP 34968, MADISON
CLUB VILLAS, EAST OF MADISON, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -089)
11. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO EXTEND THE TIME FOR COMPLETION
OF THE ONSITE IMPROVEMENTS FOR TRACT MAP 34969, MADISON
CLUB CLUBHOUSE, EAST OF MADISON, LLC (RESOLUTION NO. 2011 -089)
MOTION — It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin to approve the
Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 5, and 7 through 11
being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 2011 -085 through 2011 -089
respectively. Motion carried unanimously.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF THE 1°` ROUND COMMUNITY SERVICES GRANTS
AND FUNDING REQUESTS
Recreation Supervisor Ambriz presented the staff report.
Mayor Adolph explained $25,000 was budgeted for the Fiscal Year
2011/2012 Budget which is substantially less than the $100,000 budgeted
in previous years; stated it is a shame so little is available, but the condition
of the economy is felt by all and tremendously affects charitable and non-
profit organizations; personally apologized for the City's inability to help
further; announced additional applications will be considered in March 2012,
and encouraged applicants to re -apply at that time.
Mayor Adolph addressed the application from the American Diabetes
Association and stated the Ad Hoc Committee's concern was the check
being sent to the main office in the mid -west and the uncertainty of the
funds being allocated to the La Quinta office.
Leslie Pepper, American Diabetes Association, explained funds raised in the
Coachella Valley are allocated for this region and the procedure is for all
checks to be sent to the National Headquarters for :processing. Mayor
Adolph stated the concern was whether the funds are returned to this
region.
City Council Minutes 5 October 18, 2011
Council Member Henderson asked if the check that is sent to the National
Headquarters is allocated to the La Quinta office budget. Ms. Pepper
confirmed. Council Member Henderson asked if the La Quinta office receives
a check back or a paper transfer. Ms. Pepper explained a paper transfer is
processed.
Mayor Adolph stated the City Council desires to be assured that funds will
be allocated and remaining in the community.
Ms. Pepper stated the American Diabetes Association is the only
organization that conducts a walk event every year at the La Quinta Resort
and brings publicity to the community.
Council Member Henderson asked if the same problem had occurred before
with the same organization. Council Member Franklin stated this problem
has occurred before but with a different organization; and clarified that all
grant funds would be allocated to the La Quinta office. Ms. Pepper
confirmed.
Mayor Adolph asked how the National Headquarters knows to allocate the
funds to La Quinta. Ms. Pepper explained a specific code for La Quinta is
identified on the check and allocated as such.
Council Member Evans asked how many children from the Coachella Valley
attended camp this year. Ms. Pepper explained the camp serves over 400
children over the summer which is accessible to any of the children in the
Valley. Council Member Evans asked how much is the cost to send a child
to camp. Ms. Pepper stated the parents are charged a $25 administrative
fee and the Association covers the remainder of the costs. Council Member
Evans asked what the amount of the remainder of the costs covered by the
Association is. Ms. Pepper stated the amount is approximately $500 which
includes staffing, meals, nurses and doctors on the site. Council Member
Evans stated the Council could impose a restriction to allocate $1,000 for
two children to go to camp.
Council Member Henderson conveyed her support of earmarking the funding
for local children to attend camp in the amount of $1,000.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Evans to approve funding
to the following grant requests: Shelter From The Storm in the amount of
$2,000; Old Town Artisan Studio in the amount of $2,000; Arthritis
Foundation in the amount of $1,000; Desert Samaritans for Seniors in the
City Council Minutes 6 October 18, 2011
amount of $500; and American Diabetes Association in the amount of
$1,000 to fund two youths to attend camp. Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONSIDERATION OF PROPOSED AMENDMENTS TO THE SPECIAL EVENTS
AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE CITY OF INDIO AND GOLDENVOICE FOR THE
2012 AND 2013 COACHELLA FEST AND STAGECOACH CONCERTS
Planning Director Johnson presented the staff report.
Mayor Adolph explained at the October 4, 2011, the City Council discussed
the details of the proposed two -year contract; the City Council is in support
of the concert events; further explained the City of La Quinta requested the
City of Indio City Council postpone the consideration of the two -year
agreement to enable this Council to review it.
Rudy Gutierrez, 89966 Fiesta Road, Coachella, stated Goldenvoice has
recognized an additional issue regarding local employment, and this issue .
should be considered as well; and informed the Council that Goldenvoice is
committed to hiring employees locally for the event.
Greg Middleton, 79811 Castillo Drive, Business Owner, stated he created a
Facebook page promoting support for the concert events which has made it
clear many support the concerts; and conveyed concern of the City of La
Quinta jeopardizing the longevity of the concerts.
Clayton Baldwin, 79895 Ryan Way, stated he fully supports Coachella Fast;
the concerts are one of the best run events conducted by Goldenvoice; and
stated the City should support the promoter and not place hurdles in front of
them.
David Yrigoyen, 81874 Rancho Santana, stated he has met with all involved
and they have come up with workable solutions, and hopes the
implementation process goes smoothly; and thanked the City Council for
defending and protecting the residents.
Skip Paige, 5750 Wilshire Blvd, Los Angeles, Goldenvoice, stated he wished
this matter not come to this point; has a home in La Quinta and loves this
Valley and wants to make Coachella Valley great; this show is different than
any other show in the world; will continue to work on issues because he
wants to make the event great; willing Lo work with all involved and within
any framework provided; and wants'the City to be proud of this event.
City Council Minutes 7 October 18, 2011
Mayor Adolph stated Goldenvoice has resolved most of the issues, and the
main issue is the noise around the perimeter; addressed the problem with the
speaker systems and asked if the speakers could be placed facing northeast.
Mr. Paige explained the speakers are set up facing each other; there are two
stages and sound is coming from the other side as well; explained the Easter
and Mother's Day holidays conflicted with last year's event; stated mistakes
are made but are learning from them; there are technological issues where
delays can be implemented; and added he has issues internally but is trying
to find a way to make the sound more compartmentalized.
Mayor Adolph thanked Mr. Paige for continuing to address the issues. Mr.
Paige stated he does more than 1,500 shows per year other than Coachella
Fast; Goldenvoice is not planning on leaving and wants to stay in the
Coachella Valley; and stated he wants the events to be something everyone
can be proud of.
Council Member Franklin asked if Goldenvoice is going to hire a third party
consultant for monitoring the 2012 event, and if so, requested the
consultant look at and quantify the economic benefits to the Valley during
the events; and requested positive feedback be provided from the event as
well.
Mr. Paige stated quantifiable information was provided in 2003 when
promoting the event; and reported now that most of the employment for the
event is locally based, and is also curious to review updated quantifiable
information as well.
Council Member Franklin stated she would like information from the event be
made available for the rest of the Valley to review; thanked Mr. Paige for his
hard work; explained that the Council needs to respond to the constituents;
and further stated all have worked together through the speed bumps that
have come along the way. Mr. Paige stated he prefers to address issues and
concerns before they escalate to the City Council taking formal action.
Council Member Henderson requested Mr. Paige notify the City Council of
any new ideas in the future. Mr. Paige stated Goldenvoice is a private
company, and will be ridiculed by his partners for addressing some issues
publically, as some items should remain private.
Council Member Evans conveyed her agreement with comments made by
Council Member Franklin in regards to providing positive quantifiable
information; and thanked Mr. Paige for his involvement and addressing the
City Council Minutes 8 October 18, 2011
issues; and stated she is proud of the concert events and what it does for
the Valley.
Mr. Paige admitted he placed Indio City Manager Martinez in a bad position
by requesting a two -year agreement; and is regretful for not attending the
last meeting to defend Mr. Martinez.
Council Member Henderson thanked the Indio City Council for considering
the request to postpone action on the proposed two -year agreement; was
informed 26 emails have been received in favor of the event, and that none
of the Council. Members were opposed to the event; the event is good for
Goldenvoice, La Quinta, and Indio; and thanked Mr. Paige for his time in
working with staff, and supporting the suggested changes.
Council Member Sniff stated he generally agrees with the comments made
by the City Council.
Christopher Cichoski, 84135 Oloana Court, Indio, member of the Coachella
Valley Arts Alliance, stated the Coachella Valley has the most prestigious
music festival of all America, if not the world; any town that cares about
economic growth, art and culture would beg for the opportunity to have a
festival such as Coachella Fast; requested the City Council continue to work
with Goldenvoice through the issues to not jeopardize the relation
established with Goldenvoice:
Mayor Adolph stated he sent a letter thanking Indio Mayor Ramos - Watson
for working with the City of La Quinta, and advocating for the City to
request the Indio City Council to consider continuing action on the proposed
agreement; thanked staff, Goldenvoice, the Police Department and the City
of Indio for their cooperation, and stated the collaborative effort was
outstanding, and this is how cities should work together.
Council Member Sniff stated he supports the comments made by the
Council; it was never the position of the City Council to be in opposition of
the concert events.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin to submit a
letter under the Mayor's signature to the Indio City Council prior to Indio's
October 19; 2011 City Council meeting requesting that if the City of Indio
wishes to consider approving a Special Events Agreement with Goldenvoice
for the 2012 and 2013 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festivals and
Stagecoach Festivals, that it consider the revised Agreement that has been
provided to the City of La Quinta. Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Minutes . 9 October 18, 2011
3. CONSIDERATION OF THE COMPREHENSIVE ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORT
FOR THE YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2011
Finance Director Falconer presented the staff report.
Council Member Henderson stated it is vital the Management's Discussion
and Analysis report be read before reviewing the document; and referred to
page 16 of the staff report and asked for clarification of the number used for
the population. Finance Director Falconer explained a population of 37,000
is referenced in the statistical tables which is the current population based
on the Census, and stated staff can update the number to reflect the correct
population.
Council Member Henderson referenced page 27 of the Management's
Discussion and Analysis report, 5 " bullet point, expressed her concern of the
public understanding the term of 'debt' for the City, and asked for
clarification that the City actually is not in debt as stated in the report.
Finance Director Falconer stated the intent with the declining interest rates
the last three or four years is to try to pay off our debt and decrease the
City's liabilities; and suggested staff clarify by broadening the definition to
include the Redevelopment Agency, Financing Authority and Housing
Authority.
Council Member Henderson referenced page 17 of the staff report, regarding
Relevant Financial Policies, and stated the bottom line is the severe damage
the State has done to the cities and what the City has done to try to work
with a legal plan and process for the City's future, and readjust according to
the whims of the legislature.
Finance Director Falconer stated the intent was to inform the reader that
over the last number of years the State has had their financial problems and
has borrowed and taken from the cities, and the impacts to the citizens.
Council Member Evans stated sometimes the 'borrowing and takes' was the
same thing. Finance Director Falconer explained the State has borrowed our
Gas Tax and then paid it back, but the City looses the interest that would
have been gained and the ability to make capital improvement projects.
Council Member Sniff thanked and commended staff for a job well done.
Mayor Adolph stated it has taken several years for the City to be in this
financial position. Finance Director Falconer explained staff compiled a graph
showing an increase of the General Fund balance from $10 million in 1995
City Council Minutes 10 October 18, 2011
to $92 million currently which is a testament to the past and current
Council's foresight.
Council Member Henderson suggested the Management's Discussion and
Analysis report be provided in a different color to enable the reader to easily
identify the document. Finance Director Falconer explained staff is
mandated by law to provide it in a certain order but is able to provide the
report in a different color when posting on the City's website.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to approve,
receive and file the Comprehensive Annual Financial Report (CAFR) for the
year ended June 30, 2011, with the suggestions discussed. Motion carried
unanimously.
4. CONSIDERATION OF CIVIC ' CENTER CAMPUS VETERANS
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT AREA APPLICATIONS
The staff report remained unchanged and 'on file in the City Clerk
Department.
MOTION - It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin to authorize the
names of Veterans to be included on the Veteran's Acknowledgement Area
and authorize the expenditure of Art in Public Places funds in an amount not
to exceed $504 to add the plates and names to the Acknowledgement Area.
Motion carried unanimously.
Council Member Henderson stated she will not be present for the event and
will provide an announcement to the Mayor to be read on her behalf.
5. CONSIDERATION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 8.70 OF THE
LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO STORM WATER
MANAGEMENT AND DISCHARGE CONTROLS
Public Works Director Jonasson presented the staff report.
Mayor Adolph asked if there is anything different with this ordinance. Public
Works Director Jonasson explained this ordinance is solidifying current
practice and training received by staff.
Council Member Franklin asked if the Clean Water Act inspections are
conducted for new development only. Public Works Director Jonasson
stated a variety of inspections are conducted, including construction and
industrial inspections. Council Member Franklin stated there are continuing
inspections and not just for new development. Public Works Director
City Council Minutes 11 October 18, 2011
Jonasson explained the permit covers quite a few discharges; what is
outlined in the ordinance are the development impacts since many of the
programs apply to the City's requirements, and not necessarily to processes
the property owners and developers must follow.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to take up Ordinance No.
493 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 493
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 8.70 TO THE CITY OF LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL
CODE ENTITLED "SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT AND DISCHARGE
CONTROLS"
It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Evans to introduce Ordinance No.
493 for first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES:
Council Members Evans, Franklin, Henderson, Sniff
Mayor Adolph
NOES:
None
ABSTAIN:
None
ABSENT:
None
6. CONSIDERATION OF REAPPROPRIATION OF CONCOURS d'ELEGANCE
FUNDS
City Manager Genovese presented the staff report.
Council Member Henderson asked if the $10,000 was allocated from the
General Fund. City Manager Genovese confirmed. Council Member
Henderson asked if reserve funds were utilized to balance the General Fund.
City Manager Genovese confirmed and stated the funding would not be from
any specific piece of the budget; however, $3.1 million from the reserve
funds were utilized to balance the General Fund.
Council Member Sniff stated the funds should not be reallocated in order to
preserve the integrity of the reserve funds; the funds were allocated for a
specific budget item and are no longer valid, and prefer the funds be returned
to the reserve account.
MOTION — It was moved by Council Members Sniff /Henderson to return
funds to the reserve account.
City Council Minutes 12 October 18, 2011
Council Member Evans conveyed her support for returning the funds to the
reserve account; and stated the Council may consider allocation of additional
funds to the Community Services Grant fund account at a later time, if
desired.
Council Member Henderson stated the funding for the Concours d'Elegance
was an economic development and marketing tools, and the grants are
another application of funds.
Mayor Adolph stated last year. $40,000 was returned into the general fund
from the grant funds allocated; and further stated there is a need in the
community and does not understand the reason to not allocate $10,000 to
the Community Services Grant fund account instead of returning the funds
to a General Fund account with a balance of $93 million.
Council Member Evans stated the Council has approved $6,500 in grants
this evening.
Mayor Adolph stated the Ad Hoc Committee had to cut back on the amount
of requests because of the reduced budgeted amount of $25,000. Council
Member Henderson stated it's the time and financial era of the nation; the
Council has worked hard to place the City in a stable financial situation; and
stated many organizations are in need of assistance but the City must
decline their requests in order to preserve its operating funds.
Council Member Sniff reassured that as the year goes along, adjustments
can be made and can accommodate a need if so desired; the City Council
must be conservative and careful; there is never enough to provide
assistance to the community; and further stated taxpayer monies should be
protected.
Motion carried by a vote of 3 -2, Council Member Franklin and Mayor Adolph
dissenting.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF RETAIL AND CONSUMER TRENDS ANALYSIS
City Manager Genovese introduced the. item.
Marketing /Economic Development Manager Casillas presented highlights of
the trends analysis.
City Council Minutes 13 October 18, 2011
Redevelopment Consultant Spevacek gave a presentation and explained
what a trends analysis is.
Ken Lee, Senior Associate, RSG Consulting reviewed a series of demographic
data relating to permanent and seasonal population, Tapestry Segments,
Hotel & Hospitality, and Golf.
Mayor Adolph asked if the statistics are nationwide. Mr. Lee confirmed and
continued with his presentation.
Mayor Adolph stated most golf courses in the City of La Quinta are private.
Mr. Lee agreed with Mayor Adolph's comments and stated some private golf
courses are offering reduced fees to retain memberships and draw in new
memberships.
Council Member Henderson asked if charging full fees will backfire on those
private courses that continue to do so. Mayor Adolph confirmed and stated
private courses are losing memberships because many cannot continue to
pay the fees.
Mr. Lee continued his presentation and went on to Retail Trends,
Placemaking, and Ramifications.
Mayor Adolph requested Mr. Lee to conclude his presentation soon. Mr. Lee
continued by quickly reporting on Health Care as an Economic Driver and
concluded his presentation.
Redevelopment Consultant Spevacek stated staff is requesting to continue
with the analysis by having dialogues with major retailers, landowners and
health care facilities to receive input and provide recommendations.
Council Member Franklin asked how staff is going to share this information
with the community. Redevelopment Consultant Spevacek explained staff
will conduct one -on -one meetings with the Chamber of Chamber and the La
Quinta Resort Hotel. Council Member Franklin asked if the program will be
staff or consultant- driven. Redevelopment Consultant Spevacek stated this
will be mainly a staff function as staff will take this program forward in the
future.
Council Member Franklin stated the program sounds good, but it is all theory
at this point; and conveyed concern on the amount of funds expended on
this and prefers this remain as a staff function.
City Council Minutes 14 October 18, 2011
Council Member Sniff stated the trends forecast and data resources are
unbalanced and biased toward modern liberalism; there is an effort to
basically not follow trends, but to create a trend; asked if staff knows what
a trend is, as there can be multiple trends at one time and certain ones fade
away; the analysis appears to be an effort to promote liberal planners out of
Sacramento and may not be apropos to La Quinta; some form of
manipulation by creating the future instead of letting the future create itself;
there is economic vitality and realism, and small businesses don't do well,
such as Old Town; it is inappropriate to create walking possibilities as it is
not feasible in this region due to the heat; referred to page 3, Permanent and
Seasonal Population, stated the population will change slightly with more
retirees; does not believe everyone will shop on the internet in the future; the
Valley's single population has grown, but the population is varied, there is no
permanent population; residents will continue to need food, housing,
entertainment and these will not be purchased on the internet as people like
to see and touch these things before buying; the emphasis of social
interaction in current shopping facilities is erroneous; golf industry is losing
its preeminence because of the cost and length of time to play; technology
will not influence the retail industry as much as thought, and reduced
disposable income is speculation; glossing over the practical and unsure
about shopping areas being a gathering place as most people prefer privacy;
doubts the practicality of residential use in shopping areas; does not believe
a neighborhood medical facility is practical; and stated the analysis is
prejudiced and unbalanced.
Council Member Henderson stated the future is hidden and she doesn't know
how to get there; does not believe any of the analysis is the opinion of those
involved; it is scary not knowing where the future will lead; unsure that the
analysis assists in understanding trends; the age range of 18 to 54 increase
is terrific, but does not fit in with the old trend and will not get that kind of
population without any kind of industry to provide jobs; does not see
anything forecasted to provide additional jobs; wished staff luck in the
endeavor of trends analysis; stated the future can no longer be based on
past trends; does not know what the model of the study for future trends is;
requested staff to keep the Council apprised of discussions with business
owners prior to conducting them, and a brief update be brought back in 30
days; and would like to see the next step to provide input at that time.
Council Member Evans is intrigued of the information provided and would
like more; may not agree with some of the information provided; time to
evaluate information as things are shifting and look at what is going on
elsewhere; does not oppose to gathering information from active groups;
stated she makes purchases online; those who voted in our President are the
spenders, decision - makers, and technology- hungry individuals; other regions
City Council Minutes 15 October 18, 2011
are successfully incorporating mixed use; and stated she likes the
information and supports continuing with the analysis.
Mayor Adolph stated he does not agree with the trends of the population,
especially with golf; had the opportunity to inquire about the Eisenhower
Hospital Expansion Phase 2 and was given an answer of it being developed
in 4 to 5 years; stated businesses need to be convinced to come to La
Quinta and that it's a great place to live; and at least people are showing an
interest in developing in the community.
Council Member Sniff stated the economy itself will determine what the
future will be; cannot legislate the future; need prepare for it, have a broad
canvass on which private enterprise can be a part of it.
Council Member Henderson stated some of what will come from this analysis
could work in drawing private enterprises.
Council Member Sniff stated trends are multiple and there is a fight with the
economy when trying to solidify trends; and the economy will set the trends.
Council Member Sniff suggested continuing the remainder of the agenda as
he will need to leave momentarily.
Council Member Franklin stated some of the information provided in the
analysis does not pertain to her, but is open to what is in the analysis; and
requested the Council be informed before staff interacts with the business
community.
Council Member Evans stated staff is requesting to communicate with the
business community and the Council supports it provided it is understood
what will be communicated.
Council Member Sniff stated staff will be speaking with those that are
already invested in the community, and it is inappropriate to tell them of the
changes and adjust; and does not understand how staff can be persuasive in
doing it.
Council Member Henderson staff is not going to do that; the businesses
know tomorrow is changing; and what the City wants to know is how things
are changing.
Council Member Franklin stated the information was being shared previously;
and would still like to know what will be communicated by staff.
City Council Minutes 16 October 18, 2011
City Manager Genovese suggested staff return in two weeks or 30 days with
information that will be discussed and questions that will be asked; the
analysis is not telling anyone of the trends; staff will share the data obtained
nationwide, but the idea is to mesh general trends with trends that will
happen here; and will bring back a report with specifics on how staff will
communicate the information in two weeks.
Redevelopment Consultant Spevacek explained that in a discussion with
Torre Nissan representatives, they stated shuttle service was provided and
offered parking opportunities on Black Friday; and the military base in
Twenty -Nine Palms buses people to La Quinta to experience the City, which
has been discovered by staff from talking with the representatives.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS - None
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS - None
La Quinta Chief of Police Gregory, reported on the holiday season shopping patrol,
introduced Deputy Tracy Newton, and Community Service Officer Phil Curia, and
explained the plan for patrol during.the holidays.
Council Member Evans was disturbed to learn that 12 to 15 year olds are being
arrested for possession of marijuana; and stated she does not know what can be
done further to educate the parents.
Council Member Henderson suggested the Police Department Report be moved to
presentations and asked they return to the next meeting.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS - None
PUBLIC HEARINGS - None
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Sniff /Franklin
to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
City Council Minutes 17 October 18, 2011
VERONICA J. TECINO, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California