2019 06 18 HA & CC Minutes Joint MeetingJOINT MEETING Page 1 of 18 JUNE 18, 2019
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JOINT MEETING OF THE
CITY COUNCIL
AND HOUSING AUTHORITY
MINUTES
TUESDAY, JUNE 18, 2019
CALL TO ORDER – CITY COUNCIL
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at 3:00 p.m.
by Mayor Evans.
PRESENT: Councilmembers Fitzpatrick, Peña, Radi, Sanchez, Mayor Evans
ABSENT: None
CALL TO ORDER – HOUSING AUTHORITY
A special meeting of the La Quinta Housing Authority was called to order at 3:00
p.m. by Authority Member Evans.
PRESENT: Authority Members Evans, Fitzpatrick, Radi, Sanchez, Chairperson
Peña
ABSENT: None
VERBAL ANNOUNCEMENT – AB 23 was made by the Authority Secretary
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA – CITY COUNCIL
AND HOUSING AUTHORITY – None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA – CITY COUNCIL
City Clerk Radeva said Mr. William Jones, President of the Citrus Homeowners
Association, has requested to give a presentation regarding the Calle Tecate /
Park Avenue Intersection under Announcements, Presentations, and Written
Communications section of the agenda.
Councilmember Sanchez requested to comment on Consent Calendar Item Nos.
5, 9, and 11.
Councilmember Fitzpatrick requested to comment on Consent Calendar Item No.
8.
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Mayor Evans requested to comment on Consent Calendar Item No. 6, pull
Consent Calendar Item No. 8 for separate vote, and move Consent Calendar
Item No. 11 to Business Session Item No. 8.
Council concurred.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA – HOUSING AUTHORITY – Confirmed
CLOSED SESSION
1. PUBLIC EMPLOYEE DISCIPLINE / DISMISSAL / RELEASE
PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957
2. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.6; CITY DESIGNATED
REPRESENTATIVE: CHRIS ESCOBEDO, COMMUNITY RESOURCES
DIRECTOR; AND EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION: LA QUINTA CITY
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION
3. ANNUAL PERFORMANCE EVALUATION PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957, COUNCIL APPOINTED
POSITION – CITY ATTORNEY
4. ANNUAL PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION
PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957, COUNCIL
APPOINTED POSITION – CITY MANAGER
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING AND
MOVED INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 3:03 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL MEETING AT 4:01 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke reported:
Council considered only Closed Session Item No. 1 and there were no
actions taken that require reporting pursuant to Government Code Section
54957.1 (Brown Act); and
Council will consider Closed Session Item Nos. 2, 3, and 4 after the open
portion of the meeting.
HOUSING AUTHORITY CHAIRPERSON PEÑA REQUESTED MAYOR EVANS
TO ACT AS PRESIDING OFFICER FOR THE REMAINDER OF THE HOUSING
AUTHORITY MEETING
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PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE – CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING AUTHORITY
Councilmember Radi led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA – CITY COUNCIL
AND HOUSING AUTHORITY
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mr. Brad Anderson, Rancho Mirage – spoke about the poor
response of the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District (District)
in addressing the spread of the West Nile virus in Riverside County; noted the
District is overwhelmed and unable to properly respond; and this matter can
easily be contained.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mr. Scott Wolf with the Coachella Valley Rescue Mission –
thanked the Council for their support and assistance; gave an update of the
services and assistance the organization has provided to the community during
2018 and 2019, including meals served, overnight shelters, and special
programs and services.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mr. Andy Vossler, President of Landmark Golf Management –
commended City Manager Spevacek for his service and wished him all the best
in his retirement.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS –
CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING AUTHORITY
1. added per resident request >>> CALLE TECATE / PARK AVENUE
INTERSECTION - PRESENTATION BY MR. WILLIAM JONES,
PRESIDENT OF THE CITRUS HOMEOWNERS ASSOCIATION
Mayor Evans said Staff will present a list of available options to Council on this
matter under Departmental Report Item No. 5-A; however, this item is
agendized as an update only and Council will not make a final decision.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mr. William Jones, President of the Citrus Homeowners
Association (HOA) – said there have been a total of eight incidents of vehicles
crashing into the Citrus perimeter wall at this intersection; explained how the
incidents occurred, usually during the late hours of the night, and despite the
multiple street warning signs; presented photos of the crashes; expressed
concern about the safety of the Citrus residences located near the wall; said the
Citrus HOA’s recommendation was that a steel guard-rail will be the most
effective solution to mitigate vehicles going through the wall, Option C – Guard
Rail of Departmental Report Item 5-A; said the HOA’s repair costs for the wall
and landscaping after each incident is approximately $10,000; thanked Staff for
the assistance and information provided; and noted the Citrus is willing to join
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efforts with the City to select and install mitigation measures to ensure residents’
safety from future incidents.
CONSENT CALENDAR – CITY COUNCIL
1. APPROVE MINUTES DATED JUNE 4, 2019
2. AUTHORIZE OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR FIVE COUNCILMEMBERS,
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNITY RESOURCES AND ASSISTANT TO THE
CITY MANAGER TO ATTEND LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES
ANNUAL CONFERENCE IN LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA, OCTOBER
16-18, 2019
3. AUTHORIZE OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR FACILITIES MANAGEMENT
ASSISTANT TO ATTEND THE THIRD YEAR OF CALIFORNIA PARKS
AND RECREATION SOCIETY MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT SCHOOL
IN LAKE ARROWHEAD, CALIFORNIA, NOVEMBER 11 – 15, 2019
4. APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED MAY 31 AND JUNE 7, 2019
5. ADOPT RESOLUTION OF SUPPORT FOR BALANCED ENERGY
SOLUTIONS AND LOCAL CONTROL [RESOLUTION NO. 2019-020]
6. APPROVE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE, AND
ADVERTISE FOR BID THE HIGHWAY 111 SIDEWALK
IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF
HIGHWAY 111, BETWEEN ADAMS STREET AND LA QUINTA DRIVE
(PROJECT NO. 2018-03)
7. APPROVE PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, ENGINEER’S ESTIMATE, AND
ADVERTISE FOR BID THE HIGHWAY SAFETY IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM CITYWIDE FIBER OPTIC SIGNAL INTERCONNECT
PROJECT (PROJECT NO. 2016-02)
8. pulled for separate vote by Mayor Evans >>> APPROVE AMENDMENT
NO. 3 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH HENSON
CONSULTING GROUP FOR LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT AND
TRAINING PROGRAMS
9. APPROVE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH DESERT
SANDS UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT FOR PARTIAL FUNDING OF
TWO SCHOOL RESOURCE OFFICERS
10. APPROVE FIRE STATION NO. 70 KITCHEN AND FLOOR REMODEL
PROJECT (PROJECT NO. 2018-35); AND APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR
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CONTRACT SERVICES WITH DESERT CONCEPTS FOR DEMOLITION
AND INSTALLATION
11. moved to Business Session Item No. 8 by Mayor Evans >>> APPROVE
AGREEMENT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES WITH THE
COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 5
Councilmember Sanchez said Council was adopting a Resolution to show their
support for balanced energy solutions and local control as a response to newly
proposed state legislation seeking to eliminate energy choices and mandate fully
electrified homes and businesses; and noted energy choices should be left to the
consumers and having local controls is important.
Mayor Evans concurred with Councilmember Sanchez’s comments above.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 6
Mayor Evans said this item will revamp certain sidewalk sections along the
Highway 111 corridor and will aid the City in its undergoing efforts on the corridor
design and revisioning.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 9
Councilmember Sanchez said the government’s number one responsibility is to
protect the people; the City has a great partnership with Desert Sands Unified
School District (DSUSD); the City is in a financial position to help fund the School
Resource Officer positions; and the City is honored to have the opportunity to
partner and provide increased safety for students.
Councilmember Radi said the City is fiscally able to offer this support due to
revenues received from Measure G, and thanked the La Quinta voters for passing
the measure.
Councilmember Fitzpatrick concurred with Councilmember Radi’s comments,
and thanked DSUSD for partnering with the City to share the costs and make
this possible.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Peña/Fitzpatrick to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1 – 7, 9, and 10 as
recommended, with Item No. 5 adopting Resolution No. 2019-020. Motion
passed unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 8
Councilmember Fitzpatrick said she would not support this item at this time;
Staff is high performing and she supports the City providing training
opportunities to ensure development and success; however, she would like to
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provide the new City Manager the opportunity to evaluate the City’s training and
mentoring needs prior to making a commitment to determine whether or not
this is the right type of training.
Councilmember Radi concurred with Councilmember Fitzpatrick’s comments.
Councilmember Peña recommended Council consider continuing the item until a
future time.
Councilmember Sanchez concurred with all comments listed above.
Mayor Evans said the new City Manager was selected to provide continuity during
the transition; Council would like to arm him with the resources needed to be
successful based on his established performance metrics; and it is important that
he had the opportunity to assess and determine what trainings should be
provided to Staff.
Discussion followed regarding the outcomes of not approving the Amendment;
potential timeline to procure new services; considering a 90-day extension to
cover the gap during the assessment period, without additional monetary
appropriations; and any outstanding training activities would have been
accounted for under the existing contract appropriation.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Peña/Radi to
approve Consent Calendar Item No. 8 as amended for a 90-day extension period
from the date of expiration, effective July 1, 2019, without additional
compensation allocation, to allow the new City Manager an opportunity to assess
the training needs of the organization, and bring back a recommendation to
Council. Motion passed unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR - HOUSING AUTHORITY
1. APPROVE SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF MAY 21, 2019
2. APPROVE CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH BECKY CAHA
FOR HOUSING COMPLIANCE AND MONITORING SERVICES
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 2 – HOUSING AUTHORITY
Authority Members commented on the high level of specialized services housing
compliance and monitoring required; noted the City received only one response
to the request for proposals; thanked Housing Consultant Becky Caha for her
services; and commended the detailed scope of work and schedule of
compensation outlined in the agreement.
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MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Authority Members
Radi/Fitzpatrick to approve the Housing Authority Consent Calendar as
recommended. Motion passed unanimously.
BUSINESS SESSION – CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING AUTHORITY
1. City Council and Housing Authority: INTERVIEW AND APPOINT
RESIDENTS TO VARIOUS CITY COMMISSIONS
Council waived presentation of the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s
Office.
Deputy City Clerk Romane held a random drawing resulting in the following
interview order:
1) Community Services Commission
2) Planning Commission
3) Housing Commission
4) Financial Advisory Commission
Mayor Evans thanked all applicants for their willingness to serve the City, and
explained the process Council follows in conducting the interviews and
appointing members.
1) COMMUNITY SERVICES COMMISSION (OPEN: 2 SEATS; 3-YEAR TERMS)
The following applicants gave a brief presentation of their qualifications:
Gayl Biondi
Michael Krmpotich
Philip LaGreca
Donald Reifer
Randi Roehrick – withdrew her application during the meeting
Results of the ballot vote:
Councilmember Fitzpatrick – Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca
Councilmember Peña – Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca
Councilmember Radi – Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca
Councilmember Sanchez – Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca
Mayor Evans – Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Radi to appoint Gayl Biondi and Philip LaGreca to serve on the
Community Services Commission for three-year terms expiring June 30, 2022.
Motion passed unanimously.
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2) PLANNING COMMISSION (OPEN: 4 SEATS, 3-YEAR TERMS)
2 SEATS MUST BE FILLED BY PROFESSIONAL MEMBERS WITH STRONG BACKGROUND
IN ARCHITECTURE OR LANDSCAPE ARCHITECTURE
The following applicants gave a brief presentation of their qualifications:
John Carnie
Loretta Currie
Mike Etheridge
Elisa Guerrero
Dann Mallec
Kevin McCune (professional)
Stephen Thomas Nieto (professional)
Gregory Semos
Taylor Libolt Varner
Results of the ballot vote:
Councilmember Fitzpatrick – Loretta Currie, Kevin McCune, Stephen Thomas
Nieto, and Dale Tyerman
Councilmember Peña – Loretta Currie, Kevin McCune, Stephen Thomas Nieto,
and Taylor Libolt Van
Councilmember Radi – Loretta Currie, Elisa Guerrero, Kevin McCune, and Dale
Tyerman
Councilmember Sanchez – Elisa Guerrero, Kevin McCune, Stephen Thomas
Nieto, and Taylor Libolt Varner
Mayor Evans – Loretta Currie, Kevin McCune, Stephen Thomas Nieto, and Taylor
Libolt Varner
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Radi to appoint Loretta Currie, Kevin McCune, Stephen Thomas Nieto,
and Taylor Libolt Varner to serve on the Planning Commission for three-year
terms expiring June 30, 2022, with Kevin McCune and Stephen Thomas Nieto
filling the professional members requirement. Motion passed unanimously.
COUNCIL AND AUTHORITY RECESSED FOR A BRIEF BREAK AT 6:45 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE CITY COUNCIL AND HOUSING
AUTHORITY MEETINGS AT 6:49 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
3) HOUSING COMMISSION (OPEN: 1 SEAT; 3-YEAR TERM)
Applicant Olga Janneth Pacheco gave a brief presentation of her qualifications.
The Authority waived the vote by ballot being that there was only one applicant.
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MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Authority Members
Radi/Fitzpatrick to appoint Olga Janneth Pacheco to serve on the Housing
Commission for a three-year term expiring June 30, 2022. Motion passed
unanimously.
4) FINANCIAL ADVISORY COMMISSION (OPEN: 2 SEATS; 3-YEAR TERMS)
The following applicants gave a brief presentation of their qualifications:
Thomas Calabro
John Hoffner
The following applicants were not able to attend due to conflicting engagements;
Finance Director Romero presented the applicants’ qualifications:
Javier Lopez
Sherwyn Turbow
Results of the ballot vote:
Councilmember Fitzpatrick – Javier Lopez and John Hoffner
Councilmember Peña – Javier Lopez and John Hoffner
Councilmember Radi – Javier Lopez and John Hoffner
Councilmember Sanchez – Javier Lopez and John Hoffner
Mayor Evans – Javier Lopez and John Hoffner
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Radi to appoint Javier Lopez and John Hoffner to serve on the
Financial Advisory Commission for three-year terms expiring June 30, 2022.
Motion passed unanimously.
2. City Council: APPROVE PERSONNEL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Human Resources/Risk Manager Scott presented the staff report, which is on file
in the Clerk’s Office.
Council discussed the revisions needed to ensure compliance with state and
federal laws; this is a living document that requires periodic reviews; and the
importance of ensuring the information is easily available to the entire
organization.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Radi/Fitzpatrick to approve City Personnel Policies and Procedures as
recommended. Motion passed unanimously.
3. City Council: APPROVE WRITE-OFF OF OUTSTANDING INTERFUND
LOANS
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Finance Director Romero and Financial Services Analyst Hallick presented the
staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s Office.
Council commended Staff for the well written, transparent, and easy to
understand staff report and presentation.
Council discussed this is a non-cash transaction, simply a journal entry of debits
and credits; writing off these interfund loans would result in future revenues
collected in the different funds to be used for future public improvements as
needed; the estimated loans repayment periods are excessively long based on
revenue projections, thus rendering the loans uncollectible; the Financial
Advisory Commission’s recommendation to Council was to write off the loans;
since origination, the loans have been disclosed in the City’s Comprehensive
Annual Financial Report; carrying forward the loans merely generates internal
accounting work that brings no value to the community; the public assets built
with these funds are in use; the write-off of the loans does not affect the City’s
credit rating, avoids an overstatement of fund balance, and does not affect the
collection of current or future impact fees.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Radi/Sanchez
to approve the write-off of the following four outstanding interfund loans as
recommended:
Fire Protection Development Impact Fund
Civic Center Development Impact Fund
Street Facility Development Impact Fund
SilverRock Resort Fund
Motion passed unanimously.
4. City Council: ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE REVISIONS TO THE
CITY’S PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING POLICY
[RESOLUTION NO. 2019-021]
Account Technician Armendariz presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk’s Office.
Council discussed the importance of fiscal internal controls.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Radi/Sanchez
to adopt Resolution No. 2019 – 021 approving revisions to the City’s Purchasing
and Contracting Policy:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A PURCHASING AND CONTRACTING
POLICY
Motion passed unanimously.
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5. City Council: ADOPT RESOLUTIONS TO APPROVE FISCAL YEAR
2019/20 BUDGET AND ESTABLISH THE CITY’S APPROPRIATIONS
LIMIT; ADD POSITIONS OF ASSISTANT CONSTRUCTION MANAGER,
CODE COMPLIANCE OFFICER II, AND MANAGEMENT ANALYST;
AMEND CLASSIFICATIONS OF BUILDINGS SUPERINTENDENT TO
MANAGEMENT ANALYST, MAINTENANCE MANAGER TO
MANAGEMENT ANALYST, AND MAINTENANCE WORKER I TO
MAINTENANCE WORKER II; AND REMOVE SENIOR CIVIL
ENGINEER AND ASSOCIATE ENGINEER POSITIONS
[RESOLUTION NO. 2019–022 AND 2019-023]
Finance Director Romero presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s
Office.
Council discussed the proposed budget includes the Facilities reorganization
resulting in savings, additional funding to the Greater Coachella Valley Chamber
of Commerce (GCVCC) to provide services for the State of the City, and
estimated improvement costs for the Calle Tecate parking lot; Council will
consider the GCVCC agreement at the July 2, 2019 meeting; and Staff has held
multiple open meetings with Council and City Commissions to ensure full
transparency and provide opportunities for public comments.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Peña/Fitzpatrick to adopt Resolution Nos. 2019–022 and 2019-023 approving
fiscal year 2019/20 Budget, establish the City’s appropriations limit, and add,
amend, and remove classifications.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE CITY’S APPROPRIATION LIMIT
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019/20 AND APPROVING A BUDGET FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2019/20
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING THE POSITIONS OF ASSISTANT
CONSTRUCTION MANAGER, CODE COMPLIANCE OFFICER II, AND
MANAGEMENT ANALYST; AMENDING THE CLASSIFICATIONS OF
BUILDINGS SUPERINTENDENT TO MANAGEMENT ANALYST,
MAINTENANCE MANAGER TO MANAGEMENT ANALYST, AND
MAINTENANCE WORKER I TO MAINTENANCE WORKER II; AND
REMOVING SENIOR CIVIL ENGINEER AND ASSOCIATE ENGINEER
POSITIONS
Motion passed unanimously.
6. Housing Authority: ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE LA QUINTA
HOUSING AUTHORITY FISCAL YEAR 2019/20 BUDGET [RESOLUTION
NO. HA 2019-002]
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Finance Director Romero presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s
Office.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Authority Members
Sanchez/Radi to adopt Resolution No. HA 2019–002 approving Housing
Authority fiscal year 2019/20 Budget:
A RESOLUTION OF THE LA QUINTA HOUSING AUTHORITY
APPROVING A BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019/20
Motion passed unanimously.
7. City Council: APPROVE CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH NAI
CONSULTING, INC FOR CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND ENGINEERING SERVICES
Management Analyst Mignogna presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk’s Office.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mr. Nick Nickerson, President of NAI Consulting, Inc – said he
has a 22-year working relationship with the City, and expressed his gratitude for
the opportunity to continue to provide project management services.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Radi/Sanchez
to approve agreement for contract services with NAI Consulting, Inc, in an
amount not to exceed $540,532, for capital improvement program project
management and engineering services; and authorize the City Manager to
execute the agreement. Motion passed unanimously.
8. moved from Consent Calendar Item No. 11 by Mayor Evans >>>
APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT SERVICES WITH
THE COUNTY OF RIVERSIDE
Public Safety Manager Mendez presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk’s Office.
Council discussed public safety is one of the City’s main priorities; the agreement
maintains the daily patrol hours at 135, and adds one more School Resource
Officer funded 50% by the City; noted the cost for law enforcement services to
ensure the safety of the community for fiscal year 2019/20 is $16,346,000;
Riverside County Sheriff Bianco has indicated that he has a number of plans in
mind geared toward reducing costs going forward, but will take time to properly
asses the needs and implement changes; the agreement terms; La Quinta’s
collaborative efforts with neighboring Cities for joint agreement; importance to
have the agreement language be as flexible as possible going forward; and
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commended the law enforcement staff for the high-level of service and care they
provide to the community.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Peña/Fitzpatrick to approve agreement for Law Enforcement Services with the
County of Riverside; and authorize the City Manager to execute the agreement.
Motion passed unanimously.
STUDY SESSION
1. PUBLIC SAFETY CAMERA SYSTEM PILOT PROGRAM AND SURVEY
RESULTS
Public Safety Analyst Moreno and Traffic Operations Analyst Gunterson
presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s Office.
Council discussed camera costs; an important objective from the beginning was
to take our time to study, test, and conduct community outreach, and that has
been accomplished; survey results show there is supermajority community
support for this program, and 82% of residents feel safe in the city; anticipated
cost for installing the system, starting with 25 cameras, is $270,000 and on-
going annual maintenance costs are $10,000; Staff should explore the cost for
installing the entire system at once, not in phases, and provide comparison of
potential cost benefits due to economies of scale; there are a total of 52
intersections in La Quinta, to install the system all at once would double the
estimated cost; importance of establishing policies to ensure checks and
balances are set in place to maintain the data, and safeguard privacy and against
abuse of power by staff, hacking, etc.; this is a valuable tool that can be used to
aid in ensuring public safety; the maintenance contract would also include
upgrades to the firmware and software of the system, eliminating the need to
replace the cameras; estimated cost for installing the program in one phase,
which will include all signalized intersections and some selected parks,
trailheads, and City facilities, is about $1.2 million; Staff can request a cost
proposal and present actual numbers for consideration; despite the initial
trepidation, the community clearly supports the program; the undergoing
installation of the fiber optics infrastructure at the City’s intersection can support
the system at the intersections as well as at any facilities that are located in
close proximity, and a radio back-bone will need to be installed to support some
of the more remote areas, such as the trailheads; need to improve the City’s
wireless connection; law enforcement patrol vehicles are equipped with laptops
allowing them to access the system; and potential grant funding the City can
pursue.
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PUBLIC SPEAKER: Paul Hoesteroy, La Quinta – said he has been a resident for
29 years, has watched the City grow, there is a lot to be proud of, and a lot to
love; spoke about his professional background; expressed concerns about
installing the system based on privacy, cost, and impact on the community;
noted this system can be used for surveillance instead of public safety and the
potential negative impacts, it would consume resources, and there is always the
potential of a data breach; recommended additional community outreach; the
system would be an addition to public safety, but it would not be a multiplier;
and encouraged Council to proceed with care and caution.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Lincoln Anderson, La Quinta – said he prepared three
arguments in opposition of the camera system to present to Council, but given
the late hour and because this was only a Study Session would present only one
that would hold the most value to the community; the number one reason
residents support the system was to increase and improve safety (questions 15
and 29 of the survey), however, cameras are ineffective in preventing crime and
protecting the community, and valuable resources should not be wasted; London
is one of the most prolific users of public camera systems, but crime rates have
actually increased, and law enforcement officers and public officials have been
accused of misusing the data; New York has also used camera systems to target
minority groups; establishing a policy that states the data should not be misused
does not guarantee against misuse, and that is a great concern because it
provides an opportunity to use the same tool intended for justice for the exact
opposite than it was initially instituted for; it could be used to harm the public
instead of protect it, and thereby defeating the purpose for its existence; and
urged the Council not to proceed with the system.
Mayor Evans said written comments in opposition of this item were received by
three La Quinta residents expressing concern over cost, potential use of Measure
G funds, privacy implications, and ensuring the safety of the residents is at
heart; the comments will be made part of the record.
Council discussed when initially this project was introduced cost and privacy
were a main focus; one reason for exploring the camera system was to provide
law enforcement with an additional tool to resolve crime and not to invade
privacy, and perhaps be able to mitigate the continuous annual cost increases
for public safety services; the survey shows a 65% community support;
community outreach efforts must continue to raise awareness of the survey
results; determine costs and where and how this would roll out; additional
information is needed to determine if this would become the way of the future;
and privacy is a big concern.
Council thanked the residents who provided public comments and extended an
invitation for further discussion.
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Council discussed the comments received from Sheriff Bianco were that a
camera system would be a tremendous support to law enforcement because it
is a valuable tool as a deterrent during an event; staff will have actual costs
before a decision, whether to proceed or not is made; public safety costs are
increasing at very rapid rates, and there is a potential that the Riverside County
Sheriff’s Department may push for full-cost recovery, which would significantly
increase the City’s cost; other ways agencies are exploring to reduce risk and
cost of public safety services; there is a great sensitivity to privacy concerns and
surveillance; and explore ways to better communicate that cameras do not deter
crime, but help solve it, and what are the benefits.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO CONFIRM THE ASSESSMENT AND
DISTRICT DIAGRAM FOR THE 2019/20 LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-1 [RESOLUTION NO. 2019-024]
Assistant to the City Manager Villalpando presented the staff report, which is on
file in the Clerk’s Office.
Council discussed the increase of number of local benefit units for fiscal year
2019/20 per the final engineer’s report.
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING OPEN AT 9:14 P.M.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: None
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT 9:14 P.M.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Peña/Fitzpatrick to adopt Resolution No. 2019 – 024 to confirm the assessment
and district diagram for the Landscape and Lighting Assessment District 89-1 for
2019/20, pursuant to the Engineer’s estimate:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CONFIRMING THE DIAGRAM AND ASSESSMENTS FOR
FISCAL YEAR 2019/2020 LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT
DISTRICT 89-1, PURSUANT TO THE LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING ACT
OF 1972
Motion passed unanimously.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
All reports are on file in the City Clerk’s Office.
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2. CITY ATTORNEY – DISTRICT ATTORNEY’S OFFICE – COMMUNITY
ACTION TEAMS
City Attorney Ihrke presented the staff report, which is in file in the Clerk’s Office.
Council reached a consensus and requested that Mr. Garrett Behrens, Riverside
County District Attorney’s Office liaison for Community Action Teams program,
who is also a La Quinta, resident be invited to introduce himself during a Council
meeting.
4-A. COMMUNITY RESOURCES – ART IN PUBLIC PLACES REFRESH
Council waived presentation of the departmental report.
Council reached a consensus and directed Staff to bring forth this item for
Council consideration as a Study Session to receive direction on how to maintain
the program going forward, and evaluate the work plan with regards to
inventory, rotation, ownership, etc.
4-B. COMMUNITY RESOURCES – FIRE SERVICES REVIEW
Council waived presentation of the departmental report.
Council reached a consensus and directed Staff to initiate a request for proposals
to conduct a study of fire services, similar to the Matrix Police Services study, to
provide better knowledge and clarity on service level needs and related costs.
4-C. COMMUNITY RESOURCES – REGIONAL POLICE SERVICES STUDY
Council waived presentation of the departmental report.
Council reached a consensus and appointed Mayor Evans and Councilmember
Peña to be La Quinta’s representatives at the Cove Community Services
Commission meeting on June 26, 2019 at 11:00 a.m. at the Indian Wells Golf
Resort.
5-A. DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT – CALLE TAMPICO / PARK AVENUE
INTERSECTION OPTIONS
Council waived presentation of the departmental report.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Robert Kroll, La Quinta – said he has been a La Quinta resident
for 17 years and a quiet observer of the City’s operations, initiatives, and
projects; commended Council and Staff for listening to the community, and
providing responses or seeking resolutions to issues being brought up; spoke
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about the issues the Citrus community is encountering with this “L” shaped
intersection and expressed his support to install Option B – Concrete K Railing
or Option C – Guard Rail as presented in the departmental report to prevent
vehicles from crashing into the wall.
Council noted the departmental report was merely an update and Council will
not be making a decision on this item tonight, but it will be scheduled for
consideration at a future meeting; discussed exploring partnering with the Citrus
HOA on this effort; and land ownership of the area around the intersection.
COUNCIL AND AUTHORITY MEMBERS’ ITEMS
Mayor Evans said the La Quinta Arts Foundation (LQAF) has announced that the
2020 La Quinta Arts Festival has been cancelled. Council discussed the
importance to show strong commitment to the legacy of the Art Festival which
took a lot of effort and volunteers, and many years to develop; this is an
opportunity to create something new going forward; this decision was made by
the LQAF and not the City; and the City gave the LQAF an opportunity to
participate in the design of the SilverRock Event site, but they did not elect to
do so.
Council reached a consensus and directed Staff to schedule a Community
Workshop to discuss and seek public input and comments on holding art festivals
going forward; establish an artist repository allowing the City to communicate
with interested artists on programs and events; and publish an article in The
Gem to inform the community what the City’s plans are.
Mayor Evans said Council attended the La Quinta High School graduation
ceremony on June 4, 2019.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
La Quinta’s representative for 2019, Councilmember Fitzpatrick reported on her
participation in the following organization’s meeting:
RIVERSIDE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION (RCTC)
La Quinta’s representative for 2019, Councilmember Peña reported on his
participation in the following organizations’ meetings:
CVAG PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES – PUBLIC SAFETY POLICY
COMMITTEE
La Quinta’s representative for 2019, Councilmember Radi reported on his
participation in the following organization’s meeting:
CVAG TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
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ADJOURNMENT – HOUSING AUTHORITY
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by Authority
Members Fitzpatrick/Peña to adjourn the Housing Authority meeting at 9:38 p.m.
Motion passed unanimously.
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING AND
MOVED INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 9:39 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL MEETING AT 10:58 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke reported the following pursuant to Government Code Section
54957.1 (Brown Act):
Closed Session Item No. 2 – there were no actions taken that require
reporting; and
Closed Session Item No. 3 – was continued until the July 2, 2019 Council
meeting; and
Closed Session Item No. 4 – there were no actions taken that require
reporting.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by
Councilmembers Peña/Fitzpatrick to adjourn at 10:59 p.m. Motion passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
MONIKA RADEVA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California