2020 05 19 CC MinutesCITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 1 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
TUESDAY, MAY 19, 2020
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at 3:01
p.m. by Mayor Evans.
This meeting was held by teleconference pursuant to Executive orders N-25-
20, N-29-20, N-33-20, and N-35-20, executed by the Governor of California
in response to the state of emergency relating to novel coronavirus disease
2019 (COVID-19) and enabling teleconferencing accommodations by
suspending or waiving specified provisions of the Ralph M. Brown Act
(Government Code § 54950 et seq.).
PRESENT: Councilmembers Fitzpatrick, Peña, Radi, Sanchez, Mayor Evans
ABSENT: None
STAFF PRESENT: City Manager McMillen, City Attorney Ihrke, City Clerk
Radeva, Marketing Manager Graham, Finance Director Romero, Assistant to
the City Manager Villalpando, Community Resources Director Escobedo,
Design and Development Director Castro, and Riverside County Sherriff’s
Department Lieutenant Buompensiero.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA – None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Mayor Evans requested to add the following two items under Announcements,
Presentations, and Written Communications section of the Agenda:
Proclamation declaring May 2020 as Mental Health Month; and
Certificate of Appreciation in honor of Coachella Valley Agricultural Week
and Farmworker Appreciation.
Council concurred.
CLOSED SESSION
1. THREAT TO PUBLIC SERVICES OR FACILITIES, PURSUANT TO
SUBDIVISION (a) OF GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.
CONSULTATION WITH: ALEXANDER JOHNSTON, SENIOR
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 2 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT COORDINATOR; WILLIAM H. IHRKE,
CITY ATTORNEY
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION
PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (d) OF
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54956.9. NAME OF CASE: CITY OF
LA QUINTA V. CHIN FAMILY PROPERTIES LIMITED
PARTNERSHIP, ET AL., RIVERSIDE COUNTY SUPERIOR COURT
CASE NO. PSC1803284
3. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO
GOVERNMENT CODE SECTION 54957.6; CITY DESIGNATED
REPRESENTATIVE: CHRIS ESCOBEDO, DIRECTOR OF
COMMUNITY RESOURCES, AND EMPLOYEE ORGANIZATION: LA
QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEES’ ASSOCIATION, AND
UNREPRESENTED EMPLOYEES (VARIOUS POSITIONS IN ALL
CITY DEPARTMENTS)
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING
AND MOVED INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 3:05 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 4:06 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke said the City Council considered the Closed Session items
out of Agenda order and reported the following pursuant to Government Code
Section 54950 et seq. (Brown Act):
CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 3 – the City Negotiator provided the City
Council with an update on labor negotiations, and pursuant to
Government Code Section 54957.1, subdivision (a)(6), negotiations
between the City and the La Quinta City Employee’s Association have
concluded, and the proposed Side Letter Agreement resulting from the
negotiations is on the Agenda tonight as Business Session Item No. 1
for review and consideration; and
CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 1 – the City Council discussed the threat
to public services and closure of facilities caused by the threat of the
spread of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and received an
update on Round II COVID-19 Small Business Emergency Economic
Relief Program (Program), previously authorized by the City Council on
May 5, 2020, consisting of the Ad-hoc Committee’s recommendations
on the applicants who would be awarded loans under the Program.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 3 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Sanchez to approve the recommended 18 applications to be
awarded, for an approximate aggregate loan amount of $118,000
dollars; and the final Program recipients list will be posted on the City’s
website by tomorrow afternoon, after Staff notifies all applicants of the
results. Motion passed unanimously.
Council will continue discussion of Closed Session Item No. 1 after the
open portion of the meeting; and
CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 2 – has not yet been considered.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Mayor Evans led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
Mayor Evans said WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS were provided by the
individuals listed below, in alphabetical order, which were distributed to
Council, and incorporated into the agenda packet and public record of the
meeting:
Brad Anderson, Rancho Mirage – related to Council’s directions to the
City Manager regarding the City’s Executive Orders associated with
COVID-19 pandemic;
Lenard Dobrowolski, La Quinta – in opposition of the current short-term
vacation rental (STVR) restrictions due to COVID-19, provided
arguments in support of lifting the restrictions, and urged the Council to
reconsider;
Kimberly Estrada, La Quinta – in opposition of the current STVR
restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider Sean Parham, La
Quinta – in opposition of the COVID-19 STVR restrictions;
Kristen Perry and Gayle Lev, La Quinta – in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of
lifting the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider Sean Parham,
La Quinta – in opposition of the COVID-19 STVR restrictions; and
David Vazquez, La Quinta – in opposition of the current STVR restrictions
due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting the
restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider Sean Parham, La
Quinta – in opposition of the COVID-19 STVR restrictions.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 4 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Brad Anderson, Rancho Mirage – said he is no longer with
the Coachella Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District; and urged residents
to discard any standing water they might have to help mitigate the spread of
mosquitos in the Coachella Valley.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Ryan Smith, La Quinta – thanked the Council for the
opportunity to speak and for the work they do to represent and support the
community; noted a lot has changed since the “stay-at-home” order was
rightfully put in place, and it’s time to start rebuilding the economy and
restoring freedoms that were temporarily forfeited for the benefit of all; and
spoke in opposition of the City’s Executive Order No. 7 imposing STVR
restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting the
restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Kathy Marsh, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Mark Colella, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Dale Tyerman, La Quinta – expressed his appreciation and
respect to the City Council, City Attorney, and City Staff for their leadership,
dedication, hard work, and compassion during the COVID-19 pandemic, as
well as to the front-line workers, healthcare providers, Sheriff’s and Fire
Departments, and everyone else working tirelessly to keep the City working
and safe; noted he is confident that the leadership guiding the community
through this pandemic will also lead us out of it, and La Quinta will continue
to be the Gem of the Desert; expressed concerns about the lack of landscape
maintenance along Avenue 60 by the Sunrise Company; noted the
landscaping was to be completed by March 2020, was extended until April
2020, and now the Sunrise Company is requesting additional extension; the
residents at Trilogy have circulated a petition and are requesting that the work
be completed no later than June 2020; and requested the City’s support in
ensuring that it is completed.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Karen Parnell, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Nadia de Winter, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the
current STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of
lifting the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 5 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
PUBLIC SPEAKER: David Dinnel, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Terry Osborn, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
Mayor Evans and City Attorney Ihrke explained the City is subject to the
California Governor’s Executive Orders, which currently prohibit STVR for
leisure travel, and have instructed the California State Department of Public
Health (DPH) to provide guidance on re-opening industries based on assessed
risk; DPH has identified a total of four (4) stages of phased-in gradual re-
opening, and currently implementing stage two; and Riverside County Board
of Supervisors’ recent action to rescind the County’s STVR restrictions means
that the County is now defaulting to the State’s restrictions in place, and not
that STVR restrictions have been entirely lifted.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
– two items were added during Confirmation of Agenda
1. Item added >>> PROCLAMATION DECLARING MAY 2020 AS
MENTAL HEALTH MONTH
Mayor Evans said this disease is real and very serious; a lot of people suffer
from emotional distress and mental health disorders; COVID-19 has imposed
barriers to reach out to those in need, and it is important that we work
together and are proactive in providing much needed assistance.
2. Item added >>> CERTIFICATE OF APPRECIATION IN HONOR OF
COACHELLA VALLEY AGRICULTURAL WEEK AND FARMWORKER
APPRECIATION
Mayor Evans said May 18-22 is AG Week and Farmworkers Appreciation Week
and the Coachella Valley Spring Harvest Celebration is honoring this vital
industry to our economy and showing their appreciation.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVE MEETING MINUTES OF APRIL 21, 2020
2. APPROVE SPECIAL MEETING MINUTES OF MAY 11, 2020
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3. ADOPT RESOLUTIONS (A) CALLING AND GIVING NOTICE OF THE
HOLDING OF A GENERAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION ON TUESDAY,
NOVEMBER 3, 2020, AND (B) REQUESTING RIVERSIDE COUNTY
CONSOLIDATE THE NOVEMBER 3, 2020, MUNICIPAL ELECTION
WITH THE STATEWIDE GENERAL ELECTION
[RESOLUTION NOs. 2020-010 AND 2020-011]
4. ACCEPT FISCAL YEAR 2019/20 PAVEMENT MANAGEMENT PLAN
SLURRY SEAL IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT LOCATED ON AVENUE
54, MADISON STREET, AVENUE 58, AND CALLE TECATE (PROJECT
NO. 2019-10)
5. ACCEPT THE COVE PUBLIC RESTROOM AND TRAILHEAD PROJECT
NO. 2018-01 LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF CALLE TECATE,
ADJACENT TO COVE PARKING LOT, AND CALLE TECATE PARKING
LOT IMPROVEMENTS PROJECT NO. 2019-13, LOCATED BETWEEN
AVENIDA MADERO AND AVENIDA JUAREZ
6. APPROVE PURCHASE OF COMPACT TRACK LOADER AND
ATTACHMENTS FROM QUINN CAT AND HYDRO/AIR VACUUM
EXCAVATOR FROM RDO EQUIPMENT FOR STORM DRAIN
MAINTENANCE, AND ASSOCIATED BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS
7. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO CONTRACT WITH VINTAGE
ASSOCIATES, INC FOR A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION FOR PARK
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES (PROJECT NO. 2018-32)
8. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 1 TO CONTRACT WITH CREATIVE
LIGHTING, INC FOR A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION FOR LIGHTING
MAINTENANCE SERVICES OF LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-1 (PROJECT NO. 2018-31)
9. APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 2 TO CONTRACT WITH PWLC II,
INC FOR A ONE-YEAR EXTENSION TO PROVIDE CITYWIDE
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE SERVICES (PROJECT NO. 2018-30)
10. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO AGREEMENT FOR CONTRACT
SERVICES WITH MERCHANTS BUILDING MAINTENANCE, LLC
FOR JANITORIAL SERVICES
11. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 TO AGREEMENT FOR CONTRACT
SERVICES WITH SOUTHSTAR ENGINEERING AND CONSULTING,
INC TO PROVIDE CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 7 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE LA QUINTA VILLAGE COMPLETE
STREETS PROJECT NO. 2015-03 / 151603)
12. APPROPRIATE FUNDING AND APPROVE CHANGE ORDER NO. 6
TO CONTRACT WITH URBAN HABITAT FOR THE SILVERROCK
PARK VENUE PROJECT (NO. 2016-08) FOR STORM DAMAGE
REPAIR AND MISCELLANEOUS ADDITIONAL WORK REQUESTS
13. APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED MAY 1 AND 8, 2020
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Radi/Fitzpatrick to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended, with Item
No. 5 adopting Resolution Nos. 2020-010 and 2020-011. Motion passed
unanimously.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT
FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020/21 WITH LA QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEE
ASSOCIATION IMPLEMENTING SALARY AND BENEFIT PLAN
FREEZE FOR REPRESENTED EMPLOYEES [RESOLUTION NO. 2020-012]
Community Resources Director Escobedo presented the staff report, which is
on file in the Clerk’s Office.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Radi to adopt Resolution No. 2020-012 to approve a Side Letter
Agreement with the La Quinta City Employee Association for fiscal year
2020/21 to implement a salary and benefit plan freeze; and authorize the City
Manager to execute the agreement:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A SIDE LETTER AGREEMENT FOR FISCAL
YEAR 2020/21 WITH THE LA QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEE ASSOCIATION
IMPLEMENTING A SALARY AND BENEFIT PLAN FREEZE
Motion passed unanimously.
Council thanked City Staff for their consent and cooperation during these
trying times due to COVID-19.
2. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE IMPLEMENTATION OF SALARY
AND BENEFIT PLAN FREEZE FOR FISCAL YEAR 2020/21 FOR
NON-REPRESENTED MANAGEMENT, CONTRACT, AND
CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES [RESOLUTION NO. 2020-013]
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Community Resources Director Escobedo presented the staff report, which is
on file in the Clerk’s Office.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Peña/Radi
to adopt Resolution No. 2020-013 approving the implementation of a salary
and benefit plan freeze for fiscal year 2020/21 for non-represented
management, contract, and confidential employees:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, IMPLEMENTING A SALARY AND BENEFIT PLAN FREEZE
FOR NON-REPRESENTED MANAGEMENT, CONTRACT, AND
CONFIDENTIAL EMPLOYEES, COMMENCING ON JULY 1, 2020, AND
ENDING JUNE 30, 2021
Motion passed unanimously.
3. INTRODUCE AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.60 OF THE
LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO THE CONFLICT OF
INTEREST CODE, AND APPROVE THE CALIFORNIA FAIR
POLITICAL PRACTICES COMMISSION’S 2020 LOCAL AGENCY
BIENNIAL NOTICE [ORDINANCE NO. 585]
City Clerk Radeva presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk’s
Office.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Peña to take up Ordinance No. 585 by title and number only and
waive further reading. Motion passed unanimously.
City Clerk Radeva read the following title of Ordinance No. 585 into the record:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.60 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATING TO THE CITY’S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Peña to introduce at first reading Ordinance No. 585 as
recommended. Motion passed unanimously.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Peña to approve and accept the California Fair Political Practices
Commission’s 2020 Local Agency Biennial Notice. Motion passed unanimously.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 9 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSS NOVEL CORONAVIRUS DISEASE (COVID-19)
OPERATIONAL IMPACTS, CONTINUITY OF CITY OPERATIONS,
COMMUNITY AND BUSINESS RESOURCES
City Manager McMillen, Marketing Manager Graham, Community Resources
Director Escobedo, Design and Development Director Castro, and Assistant to
the City Manager Villalpando presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk’s Office.
City Manager McMillen provided an overview of the most recent substantive
amendments to the City’s Executive Order Nos. 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8, modifying
restrictions related to SilverRock Resort golf, all golf, outdoor recreation at
parks, trails, and recreational courts, STVR, and face coverings and social
distancing requirements, respectively.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Scott White, President and CEO with the Greater Palm
Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) – provided an overview of the
regional hospitality efforts and strategies going forward within California and
the Coachella Valley, including STVR; said California Travel Association and
Visit California have been advocating to the Governor of California
recommendations on a safe and gradual reopening of hotels and STVR;
Riverside County is trying to get a variance to re-open ahead of the state and
is working on meeting the established criteria, one of which is for the
percentage of COVID-19 positive cases of those tested to be less than 8%; it
is unclear if hotels and STVR will be a part of the County’s possible re-opening;
the CalTravel Task Force has created a responsible lodging recommendations
document to be forwarded to the state, and will be shared with the County
and Coachella Valley cities, advocating for the re-opening of hotels and STVR
at 50% occupancy effective June 1, by implementing a 3-night minimum and
a 72-hour gap between reservations for STVR, which can be amended as the
COVID-19 metrics improve; this document is also focused specifically on the
tourism nuances in the Coachella Valley; explained the CVB’s Tourism Pledge
campaign inviting local businesses to take the pledge and commit to the safety
of guests and employees, and allows businesses to share the specific steps
they are taking to enhance safety; and other local, regional, and county efforts
to support the business community.
General discussion followed regarding the City’s COVID-19 marketing
outreach efforts, including digital billboards, radio campaign, digital ads, press
releases, and social media; participation in the county’s Great Plates
Delivered: Home Meals for Seniors program for individuals at high risk due to
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 10 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
COVID-19; Code Compliance ongoing public education and compliance efforts;
food distribution community efforts and operations; digital and appointment
service delivery alternatives for community programs and services; City Hall
safety preparedness, including installation of glass partitions, drafting a re-
opening action plan, and online services; evaluating a one-year al fresco
dining program for restaurants by activating immediately adjacent outdoor
spaces, through pop-up structures and features, to expand their dining areas
and comply with social distancing requirements, related permitting process,
and the Alcohol and Beverage Control’s (ABC) temporary catering application
allowing restaurants to expand their outdoor capacity for serving alcohol
beverages as well; potential Round III for the City’s COVID-19 Small Business
Emergency Economic Relief Program to provide reimbursement options for
improvement expenses related to meeting health and safety requirements due
to COVID-19; explore al fresco shopping options; and reopening City facilities,
such as City Hall to the public is within the City’s authority.
Staff provided an update on the City’s Round II COVID-19 Small Business
Emergency Economic Relief Program; in total 39 applications were received,
24 were deemed eligible based on the established qualifying criteria, 15 did
not include all of the requested information; and 18 of the 24 were approved
by Council to move forward for fund distribution.
Further discussion followed regarding the City’s promotion of county programs
to provide business opportunities for local businesses, such as the Great Plates
Delivered program; businesses’ concerns about getting “COVID-19 ready” to
re-open; challenges with meeting new recycling mandates and compliance;
applicable county health regulations for outdoor dining; and need to
collaborate with utility providers to ensure that utility costs are commensurate
with businesses’ allowed re-opening capacities under COVID-19.
Council discussed the balancing of the ‘grey area’ of interpretation of the
state’s restrictions and easing into the allowances while ensuring compliance;
potential consequences of re-opening businesses that the state has explicitly
restricted; considering rescinding or amending the City’s Executive Order
related to STVR in the City to align it with the state’s restriction, similar to the
county’s actions; the intent of the state’s travel ban is to discourage folks from
traveling from one area to another, which could increase the spread of COVID-
19; and the public comments received during tonight’s meeting are requesting
that the City allow leisure travel, which is not within City authority in light of
the existing state restrictions in place.
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 11 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA – Continued
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Jelena Tamm, La Quinta – spoke in opposition of the current
STVR restrictions due to COVID-19, provided arguments in support of lifting
the restrictions, and urged the Council to reconsider.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Maverick Cissell, La Quinta – thanked Council for the
opportunity to speak; said he is a fire fighter and has been on the front lines
during the COVID-19 pandemic; spoke in opposition of the current STVR
restrictions due to COVID-19; and provided arguments in support of lifting the
restrictions.
Council expressed their gratitude for the services provided by essential
workers and front-line personnel during this pandemic.
Council expressed general support of the CVB’s proposed Travel Pledge.
MAYOR EVANS CALLED FOR A BRIEF RECESS AT 7:15 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE COUNCIL MEETING AT 7:29 P.M.
WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
2. DISCUSS FISCAL YEAR 2020/21 PRELIMINARY PROPOSED
BUDGET
Finance Director Romero presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk’s Office.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Randy Duncan, General Manager/Director of Golf with
Landmark Golf Management – provided a brief overview of the SilverRock
Resort golf operations; and answered Council’s questions regarding the
anticipated sales for resident golf cards, health and safety measures in place
due to COVID-19, food and beverage operations, golfers are able to drive in
with their golf carts, but not use them on the golf course; and future
advertising and marketing efforts to keep the community informed of what is
to come at the SilverRock Resort and possible group plays.
Council expressed their gratitude to the Financial Advisory Commission (FAC)
and Staff for their dedication and commitment in providing vital oversight and
reliable fiscal recommendations to ensure the City’s long-standing fiscal
stability and sound reserves.
Council discussed the Federal Emergency Management Assistance (FEMA)
request for proposals and potential costs the City might be eligible to receive
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 12 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
reimbursement due to COVID-19; the FAC’s future role in working with Staff
in the preparation of the City’s five-year capital improvement program; and
involving the FAC in reviewing the regional police services study prepared by
Matrix Consulting Group.
Council directed Staff to form Ad-hoc Subcommittees and request
participation of two members of the FAC on each one, to review the regional
police services and fire services studies, and provide recommendations to
Council.
Council discussed potential delays or reductions of City revenues from the
state of California.
PUBLIC HEARINGS – After 5:00 P.M.
1. ADOPT RESOLUTION TO APPROVE ISSUANCE OF TAX-EXEMPT
REVENUE BONDS BY THE CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE
AUTHORITY, FOR THE BENEFIT OF A LIMITED PARTNERSHIP TO
BE CREATED BY LINC HOUSING CORPORATION, IN AN
AGGREGATE PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15 MILLION,
TO FINANCE AND REFINANCE A 118-UNIT RENTAL HOUSING
FACILITY FOR LOW-INCOME SENIORS; PROJECT: SEASONS AT
MIRAFLORES; LOCATION: NORTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 48
AND JEFFERSON STREET [RESOLUTION NO. 2020-014]
Management Specialist Kinley presented the staff report, which is on file in
the Clerk’s Office.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Cecilia Ngo, Senior Project Manager with LINC Housing
(LINC) – gave a brief presentation of the project, and LINC’s history,
experience, and qualifications.
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING OPEN AT 8:20 P.M.
PUBLIC SPEAKER – None.
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT 8:21 P.M.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Peña/Radi
to adopt Resolution No. 2020-014 to approve the issuance of tax-exempt
revenue bonds by the California Municipal Finance Authority for the benefit of
LINC Housing Corporation, on behalf of a limited partnership or another entity
to be created by LINC Housing Corporation, or an affiliate thereof, in an
aggregate principal amount not to exceed $15 million dollars, to provide for
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 13 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
the financing of the Seasons at Miraflores low-income senior housing facility
consisting of 118 rental units, and certain other matters relating thereto; and
authorize the City Manager to execute all documents necessary to carry out
the financing transaction:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE ISSUANCE OF REVENUE BONDS BY THE
CALIFORNIA MUNICIPAL FINANCE AUTHORITY FOR THE BENEFIT OF A
LIMITED PARTNERSHIP TO BE CREATED BY LINC HOUSING
CORPORATION, OR AN AFFILIATE THEREOF, IN AN AGGREGATE
PRINCIPAL AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $15 MILLION DOLLARS, TO
FINANCE AND REFINANCE A 118-UNIT RENTAL HOUSING FACILITY FOR
LOW-INCOME SENIORS, AND CERTAIN OTHER MATTERS RELATING
THERETO
Motion passed unanimously.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS
All reports are on file in the City Clerk’s Office.
MAYOR’S AND COUNCIL MEMBERS’ ITEMS – None
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
La Quinta’s representative for 2020, Mayor Evans reported on her participation
in the following organizations’ meetings:
CVAG COACHELLA VALLEY CONSERVATION COMMISSION
CVAG ENERGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL RESOURCES COMMITTEE
GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION AND VISITORS BUREAU
La Quinta’s representative for 2020, Councilmember Fitzpatrick reported on
her participation in the following organizations’ meetings:
COACHELLA VALLEY MOUNTAINS CONSERVANCY
RIVERSIDE COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION (RCTC)
La Quinta’s representative for 2020, Councilmember Peña reported on his
participation in the following organization’s meeting:
CVAG PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
La Quinta’s representative for 2020, Councilmember Radi reported on his
participation in the following organizations meetings:
CVAG TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
SUNLINE TRANSIT AGENCY
La Quinta’s representative for 2020, Councilmember Sanchez reported on his
participation in the following organizations meeting:
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 14 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
ANIMAL CAMPUS COMMISSION
GREATER CV CHAMBER OF COMMERCE INFORMATION
EXCHANGE COMMITTEE
LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES – TRANSPORTATION,
COMMUNICATION AND PUBLIC WORKS POLICY COMMITTEE
RIVERSIDE LOCAL AGENCY FORMATION COMMISSION
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING
AT 8:33 P.M. TO CONDUCT A HOUSING AUTHORITY SPECIAL MEETING
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 8:54 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING
AND MOVED INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 8:54 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE
CITY COUNCIL MEETING AT 10:23 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke said the City Council continued consideration of the
remaining Closed Session items and reported the following pursuant to
Government Code Section 54950 et seq. (Brown Act):
CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 1 Continued – the City Council discussed
the threat to public services and closure of facilities caused by the threat
of the spread of novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), and took
the following actions:
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Radi/Peña to direct the City Manager to amend Executive Order No. 7
related to STVR to remove the preapproval process, to keep in place the
fines and penalty provisions in place, and to align the restrictions to
conform to California State and State Department of Public Health
requirements for re-opening and operating STVR. Motion passed
unanimously.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Fitzpatrick/Radi to direct the City Manager to amend Executive Order
Nos. 2 and 5 to re-open use of playground equipment and restrooms,
upon readiness, as it can be accomplished by the City by having the
amenities cleaned; and to ensure the Executive Orders strongly
recommend that once these facilities are re-opened, people using them
follow federal and state guidelines for hand washing, social distancing
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 15 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
and other relevant hygiene practices, in order to limit the spread of
COVID-19. Motion passed unanimously.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Radi/Sanchez to express Council’s support of the “Safer Together.
Greater Together.” Tourism Pledge as drafted and developed by the
Greater Palm Springs Convention and Visitors Bureau, and to proceed
accordingly. Motion passed unanimously.
CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 2 – pursuant to Government Code
Section 54957.1, subdivision (a)(3), the City Council received and
reviewed a copy of a settlement agreement from the defendant, Chin
Family Properties Limited Partnership (Defendant), the substance of
which involves the settlement of the pending eminent domain case and
acquisition of real property for right of way, preservation of housing
stock, and other public purposes.
The Substance of the settlement agreement is summarized as follows:
The pending roadway right-of-way and bridge project right-of-way
properties would be acquired by the City along with the remainder
of the real property (land and amenities) owned by the Defendant
at 46400 Dune Palms Road, commonly known as the Dune Palms
Mobile Home Park; and
Except for the right-of-way portions of the real property, there
would be no change in use, no relocation of mobile home park
residents, and no other modifications to existing tenants’
leaseholds interests by entering into this agreement; and
Public purposes for acquisition of mobile home park include
meeting current and projected Regional Housing Needs
Assessment (RHNA) numbers, preserving and promoting
affordable housing, and facilitating Senate Bill 330 (2019)
compliance; and
All-inclusive purchase price for the real property is $6,125,000 to
be acquired by use of restricted affordable housing funds; and
Part of the purchase price would be deposited into the state-
administered condemnation fund and would be used to acquire
the right-of-way, even if escrow does not close for the mobile
home park; and
Acquisition of all real property would be through an independent
escrow, with a due diligence period of 180 days, following the
opening of escrow, which would allow for environmental
inspection and other inspections; and
City has sole discretion to approve the inspections and accept any
conditions on title; and
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES Page 16 of 16 MAY 19, 2020
Multiple representations and warranties for the City’s benefit are
provided by the Defendant concerning the condition of the real
property, as the property will be accepted “as-is” except as
provided in the agreement; and
If the City does not acquire the entire real property for the mobile
home park, the agreement allows the eminent domain action to
proceed for final roadway and bridge project right-of-way
acquisition.
MOTION – A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
Radi/Sanchez to approve and execute the settlement agreement subject
to non-substantive corrections for signature blocks for Defendant, and
other non-substantive corrections for insertions to exhibits. Motion
passed unanimously.
If and when the settlement agreement is completely signed and final,
upon inquiry of any person, the terms and conditions of the agreement
are subject to disclosure and would be available for inspection as a
public record.
Council encouraged businesses to partake in the CVB’s Tourism Pledge.
Council noted that the public comments received from the residents do not
fall on deaf ears, and Council is here to serve the community, and do what is
in the best interest and safest for the entire community.
Council noted Memorial Day is coming up, and the community will honor those
we’ve lost over the years that have served our country and have allowed us
to live in the freedoms that we are trying to get more of during this pandemic.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by
Councilmembers Radi/Fitzpatrick to adjourn at 10:34 p.m. Motion passed
unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
MONIKA RADEVA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California