2012 05 01 CC MinutesLA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
MAY 1, 2012
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of
3:03 p.m. by Mayor Adolph
PRESENT: Council Members Evans, Franklin, Henderson, Osborne, Mayor Adolph
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENT - None
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
2. CONFERENCE WITH THE CITY'S REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR, MARK
WEISS, PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.8
CONCERNING POTENTIAL TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF ACQUISITION
AND /OR DISPOSITION OF A PORTION OF 13.79 ACRES LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 52 AND JEFFERSON STREET,
IDENTIFIED AS LOT 19 OF PARCEL MAP 33367. PROPERTY
OWNER /NEGOTIATOR: POLO BROWN COMPANY, LLC; DANIEL BROWN
Council recessed to Closed Session at 3:04 p.m. to and until 4:00 p.m.
4.00 P_M_
The City Council meeting was reconvened with no decision being made in Closed
Session which requires reporting pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.1
(Brown Act).
Mayor Adolph led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Cheri Miller, 79975 Westward Ho Drive, La Quinta — Explained her code /permit
issue and stated that it is not a city issue but a civil issue between land owners.
Mayor asked the Interim City Manager Weiss to get staff together with homeowner
to investigate and resolve the matter.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 1 MAY 1, 2012
Caroline Krause, 51884 Avenida Obregon - Provided a history of May Day, and
asked Council to be cognizant of local workers.
Dorothy Bailey, 69471 Morningside Drive, Desert Hot Springs - Member of Occupy
Coachella Valley opposing the CPV Sentinel Power Plant and bike path proposal.
Phyllis Brennan, 74711 Dillon Road, Sky Valley - Member of Occupy Coachella
Valley, read statement against the bike path proposal.
Loraine Soles, 77650 Michigan Drive #C4, Palm Desert - Provided info on health
dangers of particulate matter pollution for residents within two miles of Sentinel
Gas plant.
Darel Propst, 66173 8"' Street, Desert Hot Springs - Provided details on how his
health will be impacted by Sentinel plan emissions due to prior health issues that
brought him to live in the "clean" desert air. He requested that Council adopt the
resolution handed out to Council and the Clerk.
Melina Lobelle 512 Bedford Drive, Palm Springs - Displayed a report of 478 pages
of scientific data and asked Council to direct its staff to study it. She gave
information on County and State Representatives pushing the project through, and
asked Council to help protect the Coachella Valley because this plan will affect
everyone.
Lew Stewart, 281 Cabrillo, Palm Springs - Read resolution entitled: Resolution to
City Councils re: CPV Sentinel Power Plant.
Mayor Adolph asked Interim City Manager Weiss if La Quinta has in any way been
brought into this plant development issue. Interim City Manager Weiss responded,
no.
Robert Sylk, 79675 Rancho Santa Margarita - Reported that there is a California
Bio -Mass dump at Avenue 62 and Jackson Street in the County area on the border
of La Quinta. The smell is drifting into La Quinta and affecting residents at Trilogy,
PGA West and Andalusia. Mr. Sylk stated that the plant owner, Mr. Hardy, has
taken an option on an additional 40 acres which would double the size of the plant.
The Concerned Citizens of La Quinta, of which he is a member, are trying to
address the problem and intend to make it a major news story.
Council Member Evans said she understands. Supervisor Benoit has offered
assistance to Concerned Citizens of La Quinta.
Mayor Adolph stated that he is in contact with the City Manager of Coachella and
the County and all are trying to resolve the problem.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 2 MAY 1, 2012
Mark Weismann, 24 Sierra Madre, Rancho Mirage — spoke on behalf of PGA West
and Mike Kelly of the La Quinta Resort to urge Council to continue its support of
the Prestige event. He said it provides national exposure to La Quinta and is one of
the biggest junior golf clinics in the country.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Council Member Osborne requested that Consent Calendar Item No. 4 be pulled for
discussion.
PRESENTATIONS — NONE
WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS — NONE
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
Mayor Adolph stated that he would like to respond to a question he read in the
minutes regarding the Lighting and Landscaping District. The answer to, why has
the Council not addressed this deficit, even during non - election years, is that it has
been addressed. Council has addressed it on several occasions, and the need to
increase it has now finally come to a head.
MOTION — A motion was made by Council Members Franklin /Evans to approve the
City Council minutes of April 17, 2012 as presented. Motion passed 4 -0 -1 abstain.
Mayor Adolph abstained due to his absence from the April 17 " meeting.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED MAY 1, 2012
2. APPROVAL TO EXCUSE COMMISSIONER BOB LEIDNER FROM THE MAY
14, 2012 COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION MEETING
3. APPROVAL TO EXCUSE COMMISSIONER MARK WEBER'S ABSENCE FROM
THE MAY 8, 2012 PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING
4. APPROVAL OF A REQUEST FOR PROPOSAL TO PROVIDE JANITORIAL
SERVICES FOR CITY -OWNED BUILDINGS
5. APPROVAL TO SUBMIT A PROJECT APPLICATION FOR EDWARD BYRNE
MEMORIAL JUSTICE ASSISTANCE GRANT FUNDS FOR FISCAL YEAR
2012/2013 TO THE U.S. DEPARTMENT OF JUSTICE WITH THE CITY OF
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 3 MAY 1, 2012
RIVERSIDE ACTING AS LEAD FISCAL AGENT, AND AUTHORIZE THE CITY
MANAGER TO SIGN AN INTER -LOCAL AGREEMENT
MOTION - A motion was made by Council Members Evans /Franklin to approve the
Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1, 2, 3, and 5 as recommended. Motion passed
unanimously.
ITEM 4
Council Member Osborne asked that a preference be given to local vendors.
Interim City Manager Weiss said that staff could add language to the Request for
Proposal (RFP) that would give weight to companies able to provide a quick
response time due to maintaining a presence in the Coachella Valley.
MOTION - A motion was made by Council Members Henderson /Evans to approve
Consent Calendar Item No. 4 with the RFP to be amended by staff to include
language giving weight to local vendors.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF THE APPROPRIATION FOR MARTHA'S VILLAGE AND
KITCHEN FOR CONSTRUCTION OF A FOOD STORAGE FACILITY OR FOR
OPERATIONS FUNDING OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY RESCUE MISSION
Community Services Director Hylton presented the staff report.
Council Member Osborne estimated the distance between the two organizations at
about two miles, and calculated the meals prepared by Martha's Village at 21,000
per month, and by Rescue Mission at 18,000 per month, for a total of 40,000 free
meals per month. Director Hylton confirmed that those are the figures provided by
each organization.
Council Member Henderson expressed concern about the ongoing viability of the
one facility at the west end of the Valley and the two facilities at the east end of
the Valley. She stated that the City of La Quinta may not be able to contribute
support to them indefinitely. Ms. Henderson suggested that it may be time for
these organizations to consider combining resources. She said her concern was
providing capital funds this year to an organization that may find it does not have
funds to continue to operate next year.
Council Member Evans stated that this funding stems back to Roy's Homeless
Shelter request for $100,000 for its west valley facility. Council refused that
request in favor of funding east valley facilities. She explained that $50,000 was
allocated to the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission (CVRM) and $50,000 to Martha's
Village for capital improvements. Ms. Evans complimented the CVRM on the
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 4 MAY 1, 2012
completion of their improvements, and said that she supports keeping the funding
commitment made to Martha's Village, rather than divert that $50,000 to the
CVRM for operating expenses.
Council Member Franklin agrees that the funds were committed to capital
improvements only and were not to go for operating expenditures. She fully
supports giving Martha's Village the $50,000.
Mayor Adolph confirmed that the Council declined to fund Roy's Homeless Shelter
at the west end of the Valley at $103,000 per year for five years in favor of
directing city funds to the two facilities in the east Valley. He pointed out that this
money was for the homeless not for food banks. Provisions for food supplies have
already been made with the $200,000 contribution the city made to F.I.N.D., the
contributions the city makes twice a year for holiday food, and the recent grant to
Heritage Church to supply food. Mayor Adolph stated that housing is the main
concern with these funds, not food and that was why Roy's Homeless Shelter
request was refused so funds for the homeless could be used nearby. He
continued to say that it's important to get people out of the elements. Mayor
Adolph cautioned that CVAG (Coachella Valley Association of Governments) could
throw this issue of not funding Roy's Homeless Shelter back at La Quinta if the
funds are not used as originally intended, which was for shelters. He stated that
he is in support of Martha's Village or the CVRM providing homeless shelter
facilities with La Quinta funds.
Council Member Osborne noted that Riverside County is reducing funding to all
shelters in the Valley, which may cause the CVRM to close the emergency shelter
portion of its shelter. Mr. Osborne said the $50,000 committed to Martha's Village
for the homeless, but not yet spent, should be diverted to the CVRM in order to
keep the emergency shelter facility running. He questioned the reality of building
an 8,000 square foot storage facility for only $300,000 or $37 per square foot
unless they planned on getting free materials and labor. Mr. Osborne expressed
support for Council's policy over the years to use city funds for capital not
operating costs, but with County cuts, there is now a greater more pressing need
to keep the emergency shelter open at the CVRM.
Council Member Henderson stated that she has had a strict policy in the past of
only assisting organizations with capital improvement projects or waivers to use
city facilities but not to get involved in operating budgets. She noted that with two
of the three Valley shelters impacted by lack of operating funds, she fears that in
two years all three facilities will close due to lack of operating funds. Ms.
Henderson said she was not comfortable using this $50,000 towards a food
storage facility and although it is difficult to move the contribution from capital to
operating, under the circumstances, it could only be done with a very clear
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 5 MAY 1, 2012
message that it will never become a line item in the city's budget and organizations
could not count on her support in future years.
Public Speaker: Kay Wolff, 77227 Calle Ensenada, La Quinta - Stated that the
homeless population in the Coachella Valley in January 2011 was 287, of which
one was attributed to La Quinta, yet she personally knew four. Ms. Wolff said that
the population has grown and provided detailed information on their status and
needs. She said that she understood it would be impossible for the city to provide
all the facilities needed such as shelter, food, showers, laundry, kitchens, storage
and job assistance, but felt a symbolic gesture should be made by funding either or
both nearby facilities. Ms. Wolff asked Council to focus on the needs of the
homeless from La Quinta.
John Wolohan, 81818 Bowstring Circle, La Quinta, Vice President and Director of
Programs for Martha's Village - He explained that Martha's Village expects to save
$108,000 per year, every year once it builds its own food warehouse and no
longer needs to rent the 10,000 square foot building it currently uses. This capital
project will insure that Martha's Village survives and thrives. Last year due to a
$1 M budget shortfall, beds and personnel had to be cut, but the core mission of
providing support so people can change their lives with education and job
placement remains. Mr. Wolohan said that public showers are provided during
summer days, beds are always found for homeless children.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. Wolohan said that he has received
two of three bids for the construction of the 8,000 square foot steel structure and
believes a budget of $300,000 will be adequate given the use of an existing AC
system.
Council Member Evans stated that Martha's Village was re- prioritizing services and
calculated that this food storage facility would provide long term savings and
viability.
In response to the Mayor, Mr. Wolohan explained that the sprung tent structure
housing 100 beds was removed due to age and leaks, but the shelter with 120
beds is still in operation and currently full.
Council Member Franklin asked if Mr. Wolohan would be able to quantify the
number of La Quinta residents or former residents being served. Mr. Wolohan said
he could not. Ms. Franklin explained that two facilities compete for the same
funds, and it is troubling that the two organizations are in need the money. Ms.
Franklin said that this $50,000 was promised to Martha's Village, that CVRM
received its $50,000 from the city, and that building a food facility is part of
helping the homeless.: Although she wished the city had more to give to everyone,
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 6 MAY 1, 2012
she maintains her support to give the
the Council policy to fund capital, not
Council Member Henderson asked if h
operating expenses. Mr. Wolohan
ongoing commitments from twelve d
has cut its budget, and is raising more
the shortfall situation ever again.
Darla Burkett, Executive Director of the C
Ms. Burkett stated that the CVRM cur
women and children and just celebrated it
not be closing. Riverside County only fw
consists of 75 beds and this will have 1
stated. This was set up at the request of
the. services provided. The CVRM cou
primarily donations and grants. The clos
area because it is the only emergency st
San Diego at any time of the day or nigl
bills, food and other operating costs is ne,
continue.
Council Member. Henderson stated th,
governments is to provide social servi(
Federal funding. These services are not
receive any funding to provide these sery
In response to Mayor Adolph, Ms. Bur
folks are from they use their last written
Council Member Osborne stated that he d
the food facility for the budgeted $300,01
per square foot. He could not support h
time in the future when they may get th
beds for the homeless about to be lost
capital versus operating policy, but in todz
Quinta who need this help, he cannot supl
Council Member Henderson said that gig
maintains 120 beds in its shelter, she we
storage facility but it must come with all
Director Hylton stated that staff will insur
to Martha's Village, and stands with
i expenses.
's Village was prepared to cover future
I that the organization has obtained
at $50,000 per year for five years; it
. He said it does not intend to get into
)achella Valley Rescue Mission (CVRM) -
ently runs a 150 bed shelter for men,
> 41 ®` birthday. It is going strong and will
ds the overflow /emergency shelter which
close if it cuts its funding by 50% as
the County and consists of only a part of
its on funding from many sources, but
ig of the emergency shelter will hurt the
alter to take anyone between Blythe and
t. She said that assistance with electric
ded if the emergency shelter service is to
one of the responsibilities of county
and for this, they receive State and
the jurisdiction of cities - cities do not
s. Ms. Burkett confirmed.
said that to identify where homeless
ical address.
:s not believe Martha's Village can build
I especially since permits alone are $20
ding the $50,000 until some unknown
project together while there are 75 full
Mr. Osborne said he appreciates the
s world where there are people from La
rt holding the money.
;n the information that Martha's Village
ild support the contributions for the food
.inds of conditions. Community Services
conditions are met.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 7 1 MAY 1, 2012
MOTION - A motion was made by Council Members Henderson /Evans to approve
the appropriation of $50,000 for Martha's Village and Kitchen for construction of a
food storage facility to be conditioned upon such tasks as city review of bid
proposals, receipt of permits, payment in two checks, and other conditions
recommended by staff. Motion passed 3 -2 with Mayor Adolph and Council
Member Osborne voting NO.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF RECOMMENDED PROGRAM OPTIONS FOR FISCAL YEAR
2012/2013 BUDGET
Interim City Manager Weiss presented the staff report.
Mayor Adolph and Council Members commended Interim City Manager Weiss and
staff for an outstanding job in preparing a comprehensive, understandable budget
document.
Council Member Osborne announced that he will recuse himself from discussion on
the Corporate Drive Police Station lease due to a business relationship with the
property owner.
Mayor Adolph explained that since 1995 when the city had little reserves, Council
and staff have diligently saved for this type of rainy day situation. The city now
has healthy reserves which are available for use without negatively affecting the
city.
Public Speaker: Robert Radi, 54305 Eisenhower Drive, La Quints - Member of the
Cove Neighborhood Association. Mr. Radi stated that in this post -RDA era, options
for the coming fiscal year and year two are sobering. He applauds staff for
bringing viable budget options to the table. He noted that over the past several
years, the assessment /parks deficit has been hovering towards $2 million per year.
Mr. Radi said he hopes budget reductions are conducted with surgical precision
rather than percentage cuts across the board. Bringing to voters a district
reassessment ought to be part of the budget equation without further delay. He
stated that he is ready to stand with Council in educating and persuading voters to
pay an additional $70 per year, or 220 per day for tangible assets such as city
parks, as opposed to paying increased fire insurance rates should a fire station
have to close. He concluded by saying that balancing the budget is not for the
faint of heart and a window of opportunity exists now although it may take more
than one try with the voters.
Joan Rebich, 53810 Avenida Cortez, La Quints - Member of the Cove
Neighborhood Association. Ms. Rebich said she understands the need for the 15%
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 8 MAY 1, 2012
cuts, but asks that public safety be exempted from these cuts. Mayor Adolph
informed Ms. Rebich that the Fiscal Year 2012/2013 does not contemplate cuts to
public safety.
Michelle Patton, 54290 Avenida Martinez, La Quinta — Member of the Cove
Neighborhood Association. She stated that she is a ten -year resident, and loves
living in this small city with all the big city amenities. She expects code
enforcement to enforce city ordinances to maintain its beauty.. Ms. Patton said she
was worried that the beauty and look of the city will not be valued and tourism will
decline, businesses will suffer, TOT will be reduced, home purchases will decline,
and it becomes a downward spiral. She felt that she represented the viewpoint of
many citizens in her willingness to pay more for services, but suggests that fees be
raised a bit at a time. Ms. Patton stated that there is a need to educate citizens to
pay their part because the city cannot continue to put off dealing with the deficits
in Landscape & Lighting Districts and parks.
Council Members Henderson and Franklin expressed their appreciation for citizen
input regarding assessment districts, and will certainly call on concerned citizen to
help, the city educate their neighbors.
Council took up review of Attachment 2 to the staff report entitled: Fiscal Year
201212013 Program Changes & Reductions — Detail. Council expressed no
objections to Line Numbers 1 through 21.
Council Member Osborne said he had grave concerns with underfunding the
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP) (Line 22) because the 15% cut
reduces funding from $25,000 to $21,250 yet other cities contribute $50,000
annually. Mr. Osborne noted that there was no. other economic development
vehicle in the budget other than one contract. He stated that CVEP brings a
regional aspect to economic development that he would hate to lose because now
is the time to build economic development and not depend on others to fund it.
Mr. Osborne noted that CVEP provides economic analysis important to the city and
works with companies to keep jobs in the valley. If the city shrinks its contribution
to CVEP, what will it have for economic development? Interim City Manager Weiss
responded that $45,000 has been added to the budget for an economic
development contract with RSG, and the budget still contains $200,000 for
marketing. He noted that staff recognizes value of the collective regional
economic development efforts of CVEP but also recognized the need for a balanced
budget and to focus on the Highway 111 corridor, SilverRock and those projects
that are specific to La Quinta.
Council Member Osborne acknowledged the importance of economic development
along Highway 111 for sales tax revenue and jobs for residents, but noted that
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 9 MAY 1, 2012
Council must keep in mind that jobs paying more than $10 per hour are what CVEP
brings to the region.
Council reached a consensus to set aside a decision regarding CVEP, continue with
the budget review and return to the CVEP discussion once they have considered all
other budget items.
Council Member Evans noted that the reduced marketing budget appears to still
have plenty of focus on co -op marketing with La Quinta businesses, the online app
component is not impacted, and advertising in The Desert Sun radio, and Desert
Enterta continue. Marketing / Economic Development Manager Maria Casillas
explained that the city calendar publication has been cut but public relations and
graphic design support will remain, and although Coachella Valley Association
(CVA) contributions have been cut in half, La Quinta will remain in its key
publications as a means to reach visitors in other cities, states and Canada.
Council Member Franklin said she would like to see the newsletter eliminated for a
year due to its expense, and given that the GEM publication could cover any
information planned for this newsletter. Ms. Casillas said the cost was $11,500
per issue /mailing and for Fiscal Year 201212013, the plan was to reduce it to one
fall issue. As a result of Council debate on the effectiveness of this one glossy
issue, Council agreed to keep the $11,500 in the budget and asked Ms. Casillas to
return with marketing and /or an educational campaign options for Council's
consideration.
Mayor Adolph stated that the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce provided many
good things. The $22,500 cut is a big reduction, but it is a challenge Council will
have to accept.
In response to Mayor Adolph and Council Member Osborne, Community Services
Director Hylton explained the reductions in the Fritz Burns pool contract and the
reduction in hours at the Boys and Girls Club.
The City Council recessed at 6:52 for a short break.
The City Council reconvened the City Council meeting at 7:08 p.m. and took up
the Public Hearing items before returning to this Study Session item.
The City Council returned to discussion on this Study Session item at 7:46 p.m.
At the request of Council, Community Services Director Hylton and Golf /Park
Manager Howlett explained the service level impacts of the reductions in the
Community Services Department .listed on lines 28 (landscape and lighting
maintenance) and line 35 (citywide landscaping). Council Member Franklin noted
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 10 MAY 1, 2012
that eliminating some over - seeding will have the added benefit of reducing air
pollution and water use.
Council discussed funding for,the Prestige at PGA West event, the recreation
activity guide, and the Desert ARC program.
Council had no questions or issues with line numbers 36 through 39.
Council discussed the Fire. Department's recommendation to eliminate the volunteer
firefighter appreciation dinner (line number 40) due to a great reduction in
attendance. There was a consensus among Council to continue to present
certificates of appreciation to volunteers annually.
Council Member Osborne left the dais while the Police budget was discussed due
to his business relationship with the owner of the building leased for the Police
Substation.
Council discussed the impact of closing the second La Quinta substation located by
Highway 111 now that officers have moved to the new Thermal station. Lt. Matt
Jimenez, Assistant Chief of Police, assured Council that the village substation
would remain, and that the closing of this second substation will have no effect on
deployment in La Quinta or the level of service to the commercial community in the
Highway 111 area.
Council expressed no objections to Line Numbers 43 through 57.
Council returned to discussion on Line Number 22 - Coachella Valley Economic
Partnership (CVEP). The discussion focused on the appropriate and proper reserve
balance a city the size of La Quinta should maintain. Since this is a decision that
will be before Council in June as part of the budget resolution, there was a
consensus among Council Members to address it at that time.
Interim City Manager Weiss asked and received confirmation that Council will leave
the $3,750 reduction for CVEP in the budget.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Sunline Transit Agency - Council Member Franklin attended for Mayor Adolph.
Ms. Franklin reported that the meeting was devoted to taxicab issues. Sunline is
proposing a new commuter express service on weekdays from the Palm Desert mall
and Thousand Palms /1 -10 to downtown Riverside metro link station with
intermediate stops at Cabazon, Banning, Beaumont, Moreno Valley and LIC
Riverside campus. The bad news is that it leaves the Palm Desert mall at 4:45
a.m.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 11 MAY 1, 2012
Sunline is going to try this route because they received some grant funding for a
couple years. Ms. Franklin said the expected fare is $2 to $3 one way.
Coachella Valley Economic Partnership (CVEP) - Council Member Franklin reported
CVEP exceeded its goal for a 10% increase in the number of FAFSA (federal
scholarship) applications, received. It is unfortunate that no one from La Quinta
High School applied. Ms. Franklin announced that the 2012 annual economic
summit date has been set for October 25' and Dr. John Husing will be the speaker
once again. Also, a presentation was made by Excelleration, a company that will
be opening an indoor electric cart racing facility in Cathedral City in the old Sam's
Club 50,000 square foot building. Lastly, Ms. Franklin reported that CVEP will be
opening a satellite office in Indio's Town & Country South plaza from space
donated for that purpose.
Riverside County Transportation Commission - Council Member. Henderson reported
that the expansion of Route 91, which is a $1.3 billion project, was just approved
for a $444 million Transportation Infrastructure Financing Innovation Act (TIFIA)
grant from the Federal Transportation Department to start the environmental
process. The project will take about three years and consists of adding an express
lane and a general purpose lane.
League of California Cities - Council Member Henderson reported on AB 1836
which deals with local government hiring practices. The bill would "ban the box"
on applications that ask if the applicant has ever been convicted of a felony.
Proponents feel this box prevents applicants from ever getting to the interview
level of the hiring process. Ms. Henderson said that the League Board voted to
oppose this bill unless it is amended by including the State have this requirement
imposed upon it too.
Ms. Henderson reported on SB 1831 which is a remote sales tax issue. The
League supports it with amendments.
Palm Springs Desert Resort Communities Convention & Visitors Authority - Council
Member Evans reported that the Travel -USA bus came through Palm Springs. The
Hospitality Industry and Business Council (HIBC).and the Joint Powers Authority
(JPA) decided to support the opening of the Bump & Grind trail unless there is
scientific evidence that its use really affects the Big Horn Sheep. She stated that
the Living Desert. will be installing a life -size dinosaur exhibit for eight or nine
months at a rental fee of about $800,000. The dinosaurs will be throughout the
property and they expect it to result in a substantial increase in admission fees.
Ms. Evans reminded Council that the CVA hospitality awards and brand unveiling is
May 8' at the Annenberg Center.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 12 MAY 1, 2012
Sunline Transit Agency - Mayor Adolph announced that he attended Sunline's 35
Anniversary event.
Coachella Valley Association of Governments, Executive Board (CVAG) — Mayor
Adolph reported that the Board recommended approved of the percentages in the
Urban Crossroads report which addresses the percentage contributions of cities for
the 1 -10 interchanges. Several cities were not happy with the percentage
allocation. Public Works Director Jonasson informed Council that this percentage
allocation is an issue for La Quinta. He explained that prior to the last analysis by
the County in 2003, La Quinta's share was 35% of the 25% local responsibility.
The County's was 9% and Indio's was the balance (56%). The 2003 analysis was
done after Indio annexed all the land the County relinquished and the percentage
allocation changed to 42% La Quinta, 1 % County and the balance allocated to
Indio (57 %). Mr. Jonasson noted that the analysis done in 2003 must be flawed
because La Quinta's percentage should not have increased, whereas Indio's should
have increased substantially. He stated that this 42% allocation equates to $8
million for the Jefferson project which is listed in DIF, but very little is allocated for
it right now. Mr. Jonasson cautioned that prior to the start of the Jefferson
project, the analysis of the percentage allocations must be redone and La Quinta
must keep a close watch on the methods.
Mayor Adolph reported that AB 880 regarding the Bump & Grind Trail was
discussed. Palm Springs and Indian Wells representatives abstained so that' they
could bring it to their Councils for consideration, but all other cities gave it the go-
ahead.
Mayor Adolph reported that the Highway 111 /Washington Street project was
approved. This consists of three left turn lanes which he said may cause
bottleneck problems with the reduction to two lanes a couple hundred yards west
of the intersection. Mayor Adolph said that the project to widen Fred Waring
between Adams and Port Maria was also approved.
Oversight Board of the Successor Agency to the Dissolved Redevelopment Agency -
Council Member Osborne reported that the Board meets tomorrow to consider
revised Recognized Obligation Payment Schedule (BOPS) which were revised due
to changes required by the State Department of Finance (DOF). The DOF changes
include a reduction of approximately $2 million by negating costs for City Attorney
services, RSG services, rent to the City and administrative staff. There is not much
guidance coming from the State and title companies still have issues with
transferring properties. City Attorney Jenson added that the items the State
initially questioned ended up to be a non -issue for them — no objections. However
for some of those projects, no funds are listed on the ROPS yet.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS — none additional
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 13 MAY 1, 2012
MAYOR'S AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS - NONE
Mayor Adolph and Council commended Emergency Services Coordinator Paul Hess
on the positive feedback from Sandy Hardin, Captain of the Westward Ho HOA for
his earthquake preparedness training.
Mayor Adolph and Council congratulated Community Services Director Hylton and
Recreation Supervisor Larson on an outstanding community picnic and city birthday
celebration.
Council Member Evans noted that she has had many positive comments on the
improved traffic flow and neighbor mitigation measures during the three concert
weekends. Ms. Evans extended kudos to Planning Director Johnson and his
counterpart Jim Curtis of Indio for being available 24/7.
Council Member Franklin said that one example of the value of Director Johnson's
and Mr. Curtis' presence and involvement was the darkness problem at Avenue 54
and Madison discovered during the first weekend. It was so great to see it
resolved so quickly with portable lights. Thanks also go to the Police Officers and
Fire Fighters working the events.
PUBLIC COMMENT (7pm) - none
- NONE
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION TO
APPROVE A ONE -YEAR TIME EXTENSION FOR SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT
2006 -852, FOR A 264 -UNIT CONDOMINIUM PROJECT, COMPRISED OF
UNITS OF UP . TO 29.5 FEET IN HEIGHT, AND OTHER AMENITIES,
BOUNDED BY PGA BOULEVARD TO THE SOUTH, THE ARNOLD PALMER
PRIVATE CLUBHOUSE AND PGA WEST TENNIS CLUB TO THE WEST, THE
PGA. STADIUM COURSE TO THE NORTH, AND THE PGA TOURNAMENT
CLUBHOUSE TO THE EAST. APPLICANT: EDEN ROCK RPW, LLC
Mayor Adolph and Council Member Franklin each announced that they have a
conflict with this item due to the proximity to their residence, and left the dais
while this was being discussed.
Principal Planner Nesbit presented the staff report.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 14 MAY 1, 2012
Planning Director Johnson informed Council that additional correspondence was
received on this item. One from the PGA West Masters Association, one from the
applicant responding to that letter, and just two hours ago, an e-mail from Mr.
Keiffer, General Manager of PGA West requesting continuance of this item.
Mayor Pro Tem Henderson declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:17 p.m.
Public Speaker: Monica Amboss, Anderholt Whittaker, representing Wayne
Rembold and the Eden Rock development, and Chris Bergh, MDS Consulting,
representing Wayne Rembold, stated that they are in agreement with all the
conditions and if desired by Council, a continuance is acceptable to them.
Public Speaker: Richard Hayes, President of the PGA West Master Association
stated that the Association does not oppose a continuance. He said they would
like the opportunity to work through some of the issues outlined in their letter.
They support getting the development going. He stated that the Development
Agreement is an important document from their standpoint. He said he is
interested in the golf cart proposals and would need time to examine that.
Mayor Pro Tem Henderson declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:20 p.m.
Council Members Osborne and Evans expressed their desire to grant the
continuance of the public hearing.
Mayor Pro Tem Henderson declared the PUBLIC HEARING REOPENED at 7:22 p.m.
MOTION - A motion was made by Council Members Osborne /Evans to continue the
public hearing to June 5, 2012. Motion passed unanimously. 3 -0 -2 absent
2. PUBLIC HEARING TO CONSIDER A RESOLUTION ADOPTING THE FISCAL
YEAR 2012/2013 THROUGH 2016/2017 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM
Mayor Adolph and Council Member Franklin returned to the dais for the remainder
of the meeting.
Principal Engineer McKinney presented the staff report.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Principal Engineer McKinney said that
the city would still use the construction management firm to oversee the work
done by the contractor selected by the bonding company to take over the project.
In response to Council Member Osborne, Mr. McKinney stated that the Eisenhower
roundabout was approved in last year's CIP budget, the estimated cost is
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 15 MAY 1, 2012
$700,000, and the funding source is partially DIF. Finance Director Falconer added
that the project is currently budgeted in the CIP at $450,000 which is the cost of a
traffic signal. There is an anticipated shortfall, and once staff updates the
Developer Impact Fees (DIF) to add a roundabout category, they will have to return
to Council to approve additional funds and a funding source. Mr. Falconer stated
that at present, the roundabout has a zero impact on the general fund.
Council Member Osborne asked if the many ADA related projects being funded by
the general fund were project that were originally funded by DIF, QUIMBY, a
developer or rothee sources? Public Works Director Jonasson explained that
QUIMBY and Library funds would be used for all the ADA improvements in parks
and at the library.
Council Member Henderson asked why all these ADA projects were not done when
facilities were built. Director Jonasson responded that some are improvements
attributed to changes in the law, but most are a result of a very thorough, very
inclusive analysis by the ADA consultant. ADA design is not an exact science, an
architect makes judgment calls regarding the level of public use an area will receive
and designs to that level. He said that the retrofit numbers are very conservative
and although the scope may be reduced, these preliminary figures are being
included in the budget.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:45 p.m.
There were no requests to speak on this item.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:45 p.m.
MOTION — A motion was made by Council Members Henderson /Evans to adopt the
following resolution:
RESOLUTION NO. 2012 -012
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING THE FISCAL YEAR 2012/2013 THROUGH
2016/2017 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PLAN
Motion passed unanimously.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Franklin /Evans
to adjourn at 9:02 p.m. Motion carried unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
Susan Maysels, InterinYCity Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES 16 MAY 1, 2012