2022 01 24 DHDIRECTOR’S HEARING Page 1 of 1 JANUARY 24, 2022
SPECIAL MEETING
NOTICE AND CALL OF DIRECTOR’S HEARING
SPECIAL MEETING
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a Director’s Hearing Special Meeting is
hereby called to be held on Monday, January 24, 2022, at 2:00 p.m., at La Quinta City
Hall Council Chambers located at 78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta, CA 92253 for the
following purpose:
PUBLIC HEARING
1.ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
FOR 4-11 EVENTS AT THE GRIFFIN ESTATE; APPLICANT: MARK MAJER;
CEQA: THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT UNDER GUIDELINES SECTION 15304,
MINOR ALTERATIONS TO LAND; LOCATION 81345 AVENUE 54
***** Teleconferencing and Telephonic Accessibility is in Effect *****
Dated: January 21, 2022
/s/Danny Castro_______________
DANNY CASTRO, Director
Design and Development Department
Attest:
____________________
TANIA FLORES, Administrative Technician
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Tania Flores, Administrative Technician of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that
the foregoing notice for the Director’s Hearing Special Meeting of January 24, 2022, was
posted on the outside entry to the Council Chamber at 78495 Calle Tampico, and the
bulletin boards at 51321 Avenida Bermudas and 78630 Highway 111 on January 21, 2022.
DATED: January 21, 2022
TANIA FLORES, Administrative Technician
City of La Quinta, California
DIRECTOR’S HEARING Page 1 of 3 JANUARY 24, 2022
SPECIAL MEETING
DIRECTOR’S HEARING
AGENDA
LA QUINTA CITY HALL COUNCIL CHAMBER
78495 Calle Tampico, La Quinta
SPECIAL MEETING
MONDAY, JANUARY 24, 2022, AT 2:00 P.M.
******************************
SPECIAL NOTICE
Teleconferencing and Telephonic Accessibility In Effect
Beginning Friday, January 14, 2022, La Quinta City Hall and the La Quinta
Wellness Center will be temporarily closed to walk-in traffic due to a surge in
COVID-19. Online services are available through the City’s website at
www.laquintaca.gov or by calling (760) 777 – 7000.
Pursuant to Executive Orders N-25-20 and N-08-21 executed by the Governor of
California, and subsequently Assembly Bill 361 (AB 361, 2021), enacted 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
in the Ralph M. Brown Act (Government Code § 54950 et seq.), members of the public,
the Director, the City Attorney, City Staff, and City Consultants may participate in this
meeting by teleconference. Further, due to the temporary closure of City Hall, the
public is not permitted to physically attend this meeting; however, any member
of the public may listen or participate in this meeting virtually as specified below.
Members of the public may listen to this meeting by tuning-in live via
http://laquinta.12milesout.com/video/live.
Members of the public wanting to address the Director, either for a specific agenda item
or matters not on the agenda, are requested to follow the instructions listed below:
Written public comments – can be provided by email to Administrative Technician Tania
Flores, at TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov, preferably by 11:00 a.m. the day of the meeting,
and will be distributed to the Director and incorporated into the agenda packet and public
record of the meeting, but will not be read during the meeting unless, upon the request of
the Director, a brief summary of any public comment is asked to be read, to the extent that
Staff can accommodate such request.
Director’s Hearing Agendas and staff
reports are now available on the
City’s web page: www.laquintaca.gov
DIRECTOR’S HEARING Page 2 of 3 JANUARY 24, 2022
SPECIAL MEETING
The email subject line must clearly state “Written Comments” and the email should list
the following:
1) Full Name 4) Public Comment or Agenda Item Number
2) City of Residence 5)Subject
3) Phone Number 6) Written Comments
***** TELECONFERENCE PROCEDURES *****
Verbal Public Comment via Teleconference – members of the public may attend
and participate in the meeting by teleconference via Zoom and use the “raise your
hand” feature when public comments are prompted by the Director; the City will facilitate
the ability for a member of the public to be audible to the Director and general public and
allow him/her/they to speak on the item(s) requested. Please note – members of the
public must unmute themselves when prompted upon being recognized by the
Director, in order to become audible to the Director and the public.
Only one person may speak at a time by teleconference and only after being recognized by
the Director.
Zoom Link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
Or by phone: (253) 215 – 8782
It would be appreciated that any email communications for public comments related to the
items on the agenda, or for general public comment, are provided to the City at the email
address listed above prior to the commencement of the meeting. If that is not possible, and
to accommodate public comments on items that may be added to the agenda after its initial
posting or items that are on the agenda, every effort will be made to attempt to review
emails received by the City during the course of the meeting. The Director will endeavor to
take a brief pause before action is taken on any agenda item to allow Staff to review emails
and share any public comments received during the meeting. All emails received by the City,
at the email address above, until the adjournment of the meeting, will be included within
the public record relating to the meeting.
****************************
CALL TO ORDER
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
At this time, members of the public may address the Director on any matter not listed on
the agenda by providing written public comments via email as indicated above; or
provide verbal public comments via teleconference by joining the meeting virtually at
DIRECTOR’S HEARING Page 3 of 3 JANUARY 24, 2022
SPECIAL MEETING
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand” feature
when prompted by the Director. Please limit your comments to three (3) minutes (or
approximately 350 words). The Director values your comments; however, in accordance
with State law, no action shall be taken on any item not appearing on the agenda unless
it is an emergency item authorized by the Brown Act [Government Code § 54954.2(b)].
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
PUBLIC HEARINGS
For all Public Hearings on the agenda, a person may provide public comments in support
or opposition of a project(s). If you challenge a project(s) in court, you may be limited to
raising only those issues you or someone else raised at the public hearing or in written
correspondence delivered to the City at, or prior to the public hearing.
A person may submit written comments via email at TFlores@LaQuintaCA.Gov; or provide
verbal comments during the public hearing via teleconference by joining the meeting
virtually at https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939 and use the “raise your hand”
feature when prompted by the Director.
PAGE
1.ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
FOR 4-11 EVENTS AT THE GRIFFIN ESTATE; APPLICANT: MARK MAJER;
CEQA: THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT UNDER GUIDELINES SECTION 15304,
MINOR ALTERATIONS TO LAND; LOCATION 81345 AVENUE 54
[DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022-001]
4
ADJOURNMENT
DECLARATION OF POSTING
I, Tania Flores, Administrative Technician of the City of La Quinta, do hereby declare that
the foregoing notice for the Director’s Hearing Special Meeting of January 24, 2022, was
posted on the outside entry to the Council Chamber at 78495 Calle Tampico, and the
bulletin boards at 51321 Avenida Bermudas and 78630 Highway 111 on January 21, 2022.
DATED: January 21, 2022
TANIA FLORES, Administrative Technician
City of La Quinta, California
City of La Quinta
DIRECTOR’S HEARING: January 24, 2022
STAFF REPORT
AGENDA TITLE: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT
2021-0008 FOR 4-11 EVENTS AT THE GRIFFIN ESTATE; APPLICANT: MARK
MAJER; CEQA: THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT UNDER GUIDELINES SECTION 15304,
MINOR ALTERATIONS TO LAND; LOCATION: 81345 AVENUE 54
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
REQUEST: ADOPT A RESOLUTION TO APPROVE SPECIAL EVENT
PERMIT 2021-0008 FOR 4-11 EVENTS AT THE GRIFFIN
ESTATE
CEQA: THE LA QUINTA DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
HAS DETERMINED THAT THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT
UNDER GUIDELINES SECTION 15304, MINOR
ALTERATIONS TO LAND
LOCATION: 81345 AVENUE 54
LEGAL: APN: 780-130-001 & -002
RECOMMENDATION
Adopt a resolution to approve Special Event Permit 2021-0008 and find the project
exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA).
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
•La Quinta Municipal Code (LQMC) Section 9.160.170 Special Events – Residential
allows for residential properties to apply for 4-11 special events within a calendar
year.
•The Owner/Applicant is proposing 4-11 events at the Griffin Estate (Estate) for
2022, to consist of different range events. The Estate has had multiple approved
Special Events over the years.
BACKGROUND/ANALYSIS
The Estate is a ~39 acre estate complete with a main dwelling, large lake, pool,
equestrian facilities, and other accessory buildings, formerly owned by Merv Griffin
(Attachment 1). The Estate is part of the “Estates at Griffin Ranch” Specific Plan 14-
1001, which establishes allowances for special events within this Estate, with approval
from the City. This Special Event Permit (SPEV) serves as the mechanism to review
and permit special events, consistent with the Specific Plan. A majority of the Estate
is left vacant and undeveloped, with the northwest corner of the Estate having all of
PUBLIC HEARING NO. 1
4
the main buildings. The Estate is surrounded by the Griffin Ranch residential
community. The Estate participates in the City’s Short Term Vacation Rental program
and has had multiple City approved special events over the years, including 1-3 events
from 2017-2019. These events mostly included weddings and one annual large scale
event during Coachella Festival weekend. No event has been approved at this site
since 2019, due in large part to COVID-19 related requirements and allowances.
The Applicant is proposing to have up to 11 events at the Estate for the 2022 calendar
year (Attachment 2). The Applicant has provided a reservation summary for eight (8)
wedding events, with six (6) of them having a 150-guest count, one (1) with 200
guests, and one (1) with 400 guests (Attachment 3). All of the events would have 30-
40 workers per event, in addition to these guest counts. The events will all use base
site plans provided by the Applicant, which utilize two access points off Avenue 54 and
circulation through the Estate that has been used successfully in previously approved
events (Attachment 4). The site plans show that only a portion of the ~39 acre site is
used for purposes of the events, with the majority of the land not used or only used for
circulation purposes.
Other than these eight (8) events listed, the Applicant would be able to have a total of
three (3) more events at the Estate. Information on the events would need to be
provided to City staff in a timely manner, as set in the conditions of approval, and be
consistent with this SPEV. One of these events is proposed to be the Coachella
Festival related event, which is usually much larger in size, with guest counts in the
thousands. This event would be reviewed by City staff separately and on its own but
still count towards the eleven (11) events approved as part of this permit. Any
approval during this Director’s Hearing does not grant approval towards a Coachella
Festival related event. The Coachella Festival related event will have it’s own Special
Event Permit application with independent fees, reviews, and correspondence and
similar to previous years, be reviewed and considered at a Staff level. Although the
event would count towards the eleven (11) events for the Estate, all reviews,
conditions, and proposals are done independently. This event would be much
larger in scope compared to the ones included in the reservation summary.
Multiple conditions of approval have been recommended as part of the SPEV to ensure
compliance with the LQMC, provide public safety, ensure of consistency with this SPEV,
mitigate impacts, and ensure completion of any additional permits and licenses. Some
examples of the conditions include:
- Prior to each event the Applicant will provide final confirmations on guest
counts, site plans, and all necessary information to City staff to ensure
compliance with this SPEV.
- Notifications to surrounding public for the events.
- Compliance with all rules from the City’s Short Term Vacation Rental
program
- Allowance for City staff to inspect, including Fire, Police, and Code
Compliance
- Information on separate permits that may be required, such as Building
Permit, Encroachment Permit, and Business Licenses
5
This request was sent to all applicable City departments, including the Riverside
County Fire Department and Sheriff’s Department. All departments have approved of
the event permit, as conditioned.
Public Notice
This project was advertised in The Desert Sun newspaper on January 13, 2022, and
mailed to all property owners within 500 feet of the site. To date, no comments have
been received.
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW
The La Quinta Design and Development Department has determined that this project is
exempt from the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) under Section 15304(e),
Minor Alterations to land. This project includes minor temporary use of land having
negligible or no permanent effects on the environment.
Report prepared by: Carlos Flores, Senior Planner
Report reviewed by: Cheri Flores, Planning Manager
Attachments: 1.Vicinity Map
2.Application Information
3. Reservation Summary
4.Site Plans
Public Agency Review
6
AGENCY AND PUBLIC REVIEW
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 -
A RESOLUTION OF THE DIRECTOR OF THE DESIGN
AND DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT OF THE CITY
OF LA QUINTA APPROVING A SPECIAL EVENT
PERMIT FOR 4-11 EVENTS AT GRIFFIN ESTATE
AND FIND THE PROJECT EXEMPT FROM THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT
CASE NUMBERS:
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT: MARK MAJER
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Director of the City of La
Quinta, California did, on January 24, 2022, hold a duly noticed Public Hearing
to consider a request by Mark Majer for approval of 4-11 events at the Griffin
Estate, generally located at 81345 Avenue 54, more particularly described as:
APN 780-130-001 & 780-130-002
WHEREAS, the Design and Development Department published a public
hearing notice in The Desert Sun newspaper on January 13, 2022, as
prescribed by the Municipal Code. Public hearing notices were also mailed to
all property owners within 500 feet of the site; and
WHEREAS, at said Public Hearing, upon hearing and considering all
testimony and arguments, if any, of all interested persons desiring to be
heard, said Director did make the following mandatory findings pursuant to
Section 9.60.170 of the Municipal Code to justify approval of said Special
Event Permit:
1.The event, as conditioned, will not be detrimental to the health,
safety, and general welfare of the community in the area of the
proposed event. City staff has reviewed, and will continue to review
and monitor, the event(s) to mitigate any potential impacts.
Conditions of approval are in place to ensure of public safety inside
and outside of the event, including adequate review by public safety
staff.
2.There is adequate area to conduct the event and to accommodate
the anticipated attendance. The ~37 acre site has more than enough
room to accommodate the proposed attendances. Conditions are in
7
Director Hearing Resolution 2022 -
Special Event Permit 2021-0008
Project: Griffin Estate Events
Adopted: January 24, 2022
Page 2 of 3
place to review guest lists and attendance lists of all events, and for
City staff to provide additional conditions and mitigation as necessary
for larger crowd sizes, such as noise monitoring, security staff, public
safety staff, and/or crowd monitors.
3.Sufficient parking will be provided for the anticipated attendance.
The applicant has provided a parking plan for both onsite and offsite
parking to handle the proposed events. Conditions are in place to
help mitigate parking, such as shuttles, circulations, and potential
Traffic Control Plans.
4.Food service operations, medical facilities, solid waste facilities,
sewage disposal methods and potable water service will be provided
for all events, and be required to meet all necessary approvals per
event.
5.Fire protection plans and facilities have been provided to the
satisfaction of the fire marshal, as conditioned.
6.Security plans and facilities have been provided to the satisfaction of
the sheriff, as conditioned. The Sheriff’s department will continue to
review the events throughout the year and have conditions in place
to be able to impose or adjust additional security efforts.
7.Public roadways providing access to the event are capable of
accommodating the anticipated traffic volumes in a reasonable and
safe manner with minimal disruption to local traffic circulation, as
reviewed and approved by City’s Traffic Engineer and Sheriff’s
department. Events requiring Traffic Control will require additional
review and approval prior to each event.
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the Design and Development
Director of the City of La Quinta, California, as follows:
SECTION 1. That the above recitations are true and constitute the Findings of
the Design and Development Director in this case; and
SECTION 2. That the above project be determined by the Design and
Development Director to be exempt from the California Environmental Quality
Act (CEQA) pursuant to Section 15304(e), Minor Alterations to Land. This
project includes minor temporary use of land having negligible or no
permanent effects on the environment.
8
Director Hearing Resolution 2022 -
Special Event Permit 2021-0008
Project: Griffin Estate Events
Adopted: January 24, 2022
Page 3 of 3
SECTION 3. That it does hereby recommend approval of Special Event Permit
2021-0008 for the reasons set forth in this Resolution and subject to the
attached Conditions of Approval (Exhibit A).
PASSED, APPROVED, and ADOPTED at a meeting of the City of La
Quinta Design and Development Director, held on January 24, 2022, by the
Design and Development Director:
__________________________________________
DANNY CASTRO, Design and Development Director
City of La Quinta, California
ATTEST:
_________________________________
TANIA FLORES, Administrative Technician
9
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 1 of 7
This approval authorizes the applicant to conduct the event pursuant to compliance
with all conditions of approval of this permit. The applicant must obtain any
permits, as may be required below, in order to physically set up the event.
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL
Completion/confirmation prior to start of each event:
1.Up to eleven (11) indoor/outdoor events are approved within calendar year
2022. The total number of event participants, including staff, security and
guests, shall not exceed the amount provided in the application information on
file. The applicant is required to maintain a count of all event participants on-
site at all times during the event. The event count shall be maintained by
event staff at the main entrance and made available upon request by the La
Quinta Police Department, Office of Fire Marshal or City Staff.
2.Revised exhibits and specific event information for each event shall be
submitted 30 days prior to each event and will be reviewed by City
Departments. If event changes are significant from the approved event
exhibits and description, the Director may require a separate Special Event
Permit for these events and/or additions and modifications to the conditions of
approval listed in this letter. The City of La Quinta has information on file for
eight (8) of the allowed 11 events.
3.The remaining three (3) events out of the 11 events will require information to
be submitted to City staff 30 days prior to the event. However, if the event
proposed exceeds 500 guests and/or has traffic control proposed, it shall be
submitted 90 days prior to event date.
4.This event approval does not grant approval for the annual Coachella Festival
related event that occurs at this project site. Approval of this event would
count towards the 11 events allowed under this permit, but is to be reviewed
independent of this event and information must be submitted 90 days prior to
that event. Additional conditions, review, permits, inspections, and many
other aspects may be added as part of that event.
5.The applicant shall obtain all other applicable permits, if required, from the
appropriate agencies (i.e. Office of Fire Marshal, Building Department, Police
Department, Alcohol Beverage Control, etc.). This includes getting
10
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 2 of 7
appropriate City of La Quinta building permits for any structures that are part
of any event.
6.The applicant shall obtain an encroachment permit for any off-site signs. Off-
site signs shall not block the line of sight for traffic. Please contact Amy Yu at
(760) 777-7047 for assistance on obtaining an encroachment permit.
7.All vendors shall obtain a City Business License prior to each event. The
serving of food and alcoholic beverages during the event shall be subject to
the rules and requirements of the Riverside County Health Department and
State of California Alcoholic Beverage Control, respectively. The applicant shall
provide the City with proof of ABC approval prior to the event.
8.A vendor list for each event shall be provided 14 days prior to event to ensure
they have obtained City Business License.
9.Fire inspection under the current scope and details provided for the “Regular”
and “Large” special events of a wedding ceremony, or similar nature as
provided by the applicant and on file, do not require Office of the Fire Marshal
inspection for clearance to operate.
10.Planned events that have an increased attendance greater than 500 persons,
MAY require a separate specific Special Event application for permit. Contact
the City of La Quinta Planning Division and Office of the Fire Marshal to
discuss potential impacts.
11.Review of the submitted documents did not reference any planned use of
Temporary Amusement or Carnival Rides. Separate permit submittal and
approval of such is required by the La Quinta Office of the Fire Marshal.
Amusement and Carnival rides shall have current Cal/OSHA certification tag,
portable fire extinguisher with current annual service tag and be
installed/constructed on stable ground or foundation. All rides shall have a
stopping device within reach of the operator for use in case of an emergency.
Equipment Operators shall be trained in the specific operation of the particular
ride. The operator shall be in good health and of sound mind.
12.Review of the submitted documents did not reference any planned use of
tents or canopies. Therefore, tents over 400 square feet and canopies over
11
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 3 of 7
700 square feet require separate permit application with La Quinta Building
Division and Office of the Fire Marshal prior to installation and use, each
occurrence.
13. The applicant shall provide notification of each event to all properties within
500 feet of event site and/or surrounding Home Owners Associations (HOA’s)
fourteen (14) days prior to each event. Notification shall include date, time,
event scope, and the name and twenty-four hour contact phone number of the
local contact person for the property and the police department. Proof of
notification shall be provided to the City of La Quinta Planning Division seven
(7) days prior to each event. In addition, the name and phone number of the
local contact person for the property shall be posted at all entrances to the
property.
14. Access and egress to all neighboring properties shall be maintained at all
times. If access and egress is not maintained, due to impacts related to the
event, to the satisfaction of the Code Compliance Division or Police
Department, the event permit may be modified, suspended or revoked.
15.The Design and Development Director may modify Conditions of Approval
regarding business hours, parking, occupancy and other operational conditions
should it be determined that after an event, the proposed uses or conditions
under which the events are being operated or maintained is detrimental to the
public health, welfare, or materially injurious to property, improvements or
other uses in proximity to the subject property, or if the subject property is
operated or maintained so as to constitute a public nuisance.
16.The Applicant and/or City staff may make modifications to circulation plan for
the events, including requiring/applying for Traffic Control to ensure of
adequate drop off during events, especially for the event of 400 people.
Modifications to circulation may include additional measures to ensure drop off
and pick up of guests does not create any issues along Avenue 54 or any
other surrounding streets.
17. The events shall have Noise Control Plans in place, and approved by Staff,
that will allow for monitoring of noise and allowances for Staff to ensure noise
control measures are in place for the event.
Completion/confirmation during the event:
12
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 4 of 7
18.The set-up and operation of the events shall be consistent with the attached
exhibits and event information on file.
19.Security personnel shall be easily identifiable to the public by the provision of
uniformed personnel. All designated private security personnel must be
licensed by the State of California and possess a valid private security license.
20.Certain areas providing access to the event area are public and, as such,
general public access may not be denied or restricted in any manner that
extends beyond the limits of this event as approved.
21.The applicant shall conform to the City’s Noise Ordinance (Municipal Code
Section 9.100.210) and specifically the following noise limitations during the
event:
Before 10:00pm: Sixty-five decibels (65 dB(A))
After 10:00pm: Fifty decibels (50 dB(A))
If the noise consists entirely of impact noise, speech or music, or any
combination thereof, each of the noise levels specified above shall be reduced
by five dB(A).
22.Portable generators shall be shielded to prevent accidental contact with
guests. Extension cords shall be ground-secured to prevent tripping. Any
lighting shall be directed away from surrounding roadways and surrounding
residential properties. No spot or searchlights are permitted.
23.Surrounding roadways and intersections shall remain readily accessible for
passage of emergency response vehicles and private vehicles. There shall be
no queuing of vehicles along all surrounding roads for the purposes of
dropping off for, picking up for, or entering the event.
24.If parking at any event exceeds what is approved, the parking options for the
next event will need to be modified and submitted to the Planning Division 30
days prior to the next event.
25.Roadways/traffic aisles to structures and activities in and around the event will
be maintained accessible to emergency vehicles at all times. Parking monitors
shall wear light-colored clothing and reflective vests as needed. Flashlights
13
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 5 of 7
shall be used after dusk.
26.The event is subject to spot inspections by the Police Department and/or City
staff to ensure compliance with the conditions of this letter.
27.No fireworks, or open flame, or any other device emitting flame or fire or
creating a glow capable of igniting combustibles shall be permitted.
28.No designated fire lanes, fire hydrants or any other Fire Department
appliances shall be blocked or obstructed. Fire lanes shall be clearly identified
in an approved manner throughout the event grounds by posting “NO
PARKING FIRE LANE” or other approved means. All motor vehicles shall be
parked in designated parking areas.
29.Generators (and/or internal combustion power sources) shall be separated
from buildings, temporary membrane structures, tents, canopies by a
minimum of 20 feet and be isolated from contact with the public [CFC
3107.16]. Additional fuel containers will not be allowed to be stored with the
generator. Each generator will need to have a 10BC fire extinguisher, with a
current service tag (within one year). Combustible material (including trash)
shall be kept clear of the generators.
30.Extension cords shall be over-current protected and/or ground-fault
interrupter protected. No additional taps are to be in any device. All extension
cords shall be of 12/3 gauge wire or greater with approved connectors.
31.Installations of rope or string lighting shall be in compliance with the
manufacturer specifications. Consideration for the number of “chains”
connected to a single outlet shall be given.
32.At least one 2A10BC fire extinguisher, with a current service tag (within one
year), shall be provided at all vendor booths that are cooking. One Class K
type fire extinguisher, with a current service tag (within one year), shall be
provided for each vendor booth with a deep fat fryer. Deep fat fryers shall be
located outside tents and protected from the public, unless otherwise directed
or approved by The Department of Environmental Health and the Office of Fire
Marshal.
14
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 6 of 7
33.All L.P.G. tanks (empty or full) shall be secured with a chain or other approved
device to prevent tipping over/unintentional movement and kept a safe
distance from open flame. The pressure relief vent should be pointed away
from any open flame.
34.Accumulation of combustible material (including trash) will be prohibited near
any ignition sources within 30-feet of the perimeter of tents and membrane
structures. Such waste shall be stored in approved containers and removed
from the premises not less than once a day.
35.Review of the submitted documents did not reference any planned use of
Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles (i.e. Food Trucks). Therefore, it is required
that any planned use of Mobile Food Preparation Vehicles equipped with
appliances that produce smoke or grease-laden vapors shall be approved by
separate permit application each occurrence. Site plans identifying proposed
location(s) of the vehicle(s) along with list of vendors contracted for the
service shall be included in the submittal. Vendors, vehicles, and equipment
are required to comply with CFC Section 319 as well as obtain a City Business
License.
36.Smoking shall be permitted only in designated areas. Other areas shall have
approved “No Smoking” signs conspicuously posted and maintained.
37.Review of the submitted documents did not reference any planned use
fireworks, pyrotechnics, fire performers and/or open flame; and shall require
a separate permit and approval by the Office of the Fire Marshal.
Completion/confirmation after the conclusion of the event (if necessary):
38. The event sites used shall be left clean and in its original manner after the
event. Temporary trash receptacles shall be provided in and around the event
areas. All event areas shall be left free of debris at the end of each day’s
activities, and after the event concludes.
39.The City of La Quinta Police Department reserves the right to bill the event
sponsor for any lost police time, equipment, and/or any unforeseen loss that
may occur due to the event that requires police action.
15
DIRECTOR HEARING RESOLUTION 2022 - XXX - "EXHIBIT A"
CONDITIONS OF APPROVAL –
SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
APPLICANT/OWNER: MARK MAJER
PROJECT: GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS
ADOPTED: JANUARY 24, 2022
Page 7 of 7
40.Any damage to public hardscape caused by this event shall be repaired as
directed by the City Engineer. This includes but is not limited to sidewalks,
curb and gutter, landscaping, and pavement especially within the surrounding
public streets.
16
ATTACHMENT 1
17
October 11, 2021
City of La Quinta
Design & Development Department
Attn: Carlos Flores
78495 Calle Tampico
La Quinta, CA 92253
RE: MERV GRIFFIN ESTATE – APPPLICATION FOR 2022 MAJOR TEMPORARY USE PERMIT
Filing Fees – to be submitted with application ($2,108.00)
Application Information:
1.Description of Activities:
•Saturday wedding events, late afternoon services followed by early evening receptions
•Equipment set ups will be 1 day before on Fridays
•Max number of people working per event is estimated at 30-40
•Please see MGE Reservation Summary for max attendance at one time
•Please see MGE Reservation Summary for attendance per day
•No portion of activities to occur within a public right-of-way
•Use of mobile silent generators for all power related event issues, including amplified
music.
2.Site Plan:
•Project name is Merv Griffin Estate, site plan attached to application (scale is 1” = 50’)
•Property address is 81345 Avenue 54, La Quinta 92253, this a 40-acre private estate
property which is exclusively gated and surrounded by walls on all sides, to the north is
Avenue 54 which separated by a 12’ wall.
3.Supplemental Information:
•Traffic Control Plan – all events are anticipated to utilize mini-coaches for shuttling
guests to and from the property. There will be nominal use of private vehicles and Uber.
Applicant will submit a TCP (if required by the City) approx. 90 days before the event or
asap.
•Noise Control Plan – same as above
•Use Agreement – N/A
•Encroachment Permit – N/A
•Evidence of Additional Insurance – City to confirm if the scope of these wedding events
is considered as major events. Historically, this has not been the case.
•Waste Reduction – N/A
ATTACHMENT 2
18
MERV GRIFFIN ESTATE
RESERVATIONS SUMMARY
AS OF OCTOBER 12, 2021
CLIENT EVENT TYPE GUESTS EVENT DATE (S)NOTE
1 Orban Wedding 150 2/11/22, 2/12/22
private serivce with lunch on 2/11/22, private evening
reception on 2/12/22 (150 guests per event)
2 Dubay Wedding 150 2/26/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
3 Sonnennfeld Wedding 150 3/12/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
4 Klump Wedding 150 3/26/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
5 Elsissy Wedding 150 3/31/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
6 Wilson Wedding 150 4/9/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
6 Conway Wedding 200 10/22/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
7 Urquhart Wedding 400 10/29/2022 private afternoon service with evening reception
TOTALS
ATTACHMENT 3
19
ATTACHMENT 4
20
21
22
POWERPOINT
DIRECTOR’S
HEARING
JANUARY 24, 2022
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
1
Director’s Hearing
January 24, 2022
Pledge of Allegiance
1
2
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
2
Public Comment - Teleconference
Join virtually via Zoom:
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/82853067939
Meeting ID: 828 5306 7939
“Raise Hand” to speak
Or join via phone: (253) 215 - 8782
*9 = Raise Hand to speak when addressed
*6 = Unmute when prompted
Please limit your comments to 3 minutes.
How to “Raise Hand” via Computer
3
4
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
3
How to “Raise Hand” via Smart Phone App
Director’s Hearing
January 24, 2022
PH1 – SPECIAL EVENT PERMIT 2021-0008
(GRIFFIN ESTATE EVENTS)
5
6
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
4
Background
•Merv Griffin Estate is a ~39 acre
estate
•Surrounded by Griffin Ranch
residential development
Vicinity Map
7
8
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
5
Background
•Estate participates in STVR and has
had multiple City approved special
events
•Events included weddings,
conferences, and an annual
Coachella Festival event
•No events approved here since 2019
Background
•Special Event regulations created in 2016 as part of streamlining
•Current regulations:
–4-11 events requires Director Hearing MUP (also called Major Special Event Permit
9
10
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
6
Analysis
•Applicant proposing up to 11 events
at Estate for 2022 calendar year
•Reservation summary has 8 wedding
events
–Six have 150 guests, One has 200
guests, and another with 400
Analysis
•Remaining three (3) events would be
possible with information provided by
applicant
•One of the events is Coachella
Festival event, applied for
independently
11
12
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
7
Site Plans
Site Plans
13
14
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
8
Site Plans
Analysis
•Events have a base site plan, using
only a portion of the ~39 acre site
•Reviewed and recommended for
approval by City staff
15
16
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
9
Analysis
•All events have Conditions of Approval that need to be taken care of (40 on this approval)
•Include: Notification to neighbors, STVR compliance, inspection allowances, event changes, licensing requirements, noise control, fire safety, etc.
Recommendation
•Adopt resolution approving Special Event
Permit 2021-0008 subject to the findings
and conditions of approval and find it
exempt from the California Environmental
Quality Act
17
18
DIRECTOR'S HEARING JANUARY 24, 2022
10
19
WRITTEN
PUBLIC COMMENT
DIRECTOR’S
HEARING
JANUARY 24, 2022
1
Tania Flores
From:Castro, Andrew <andrewcastro@uchastings.edu>
Sent:Sunday, January 23, 2022 3:28 PM
To:Tania Flores
Subject:Written Comments
Attachments:Public Comments 124.pdf
Importance:High
Follow Up Flag:Follow up
Flag Status:Completed
** EXTERNAL: This message originated outside of the City of La Quinta. Please use proper judgement and caution when opening
attachments, clicking links or responding to requests for information. **
Attached, please find my written comments for “Director’s Hearing – Special Meeting” scheduled for 01/24/22. Please
do not redact my name or email address in my written comments—I consent to publication here.
1. Andrew Castro
2. La Quinta
3. N/A
4. Public comment
5. STVRs
6. See attached
DIRECTOR'S HEARING - JANUARY 24, 2022 - WRITTEN COMMENT BY ANDREW CASTRO
PUBLIC COMMENT ON ITEMS NOT ON THE AGENDA - LAND USE AND STVR
PAST/PRESENT
S.T.V.R.
OWNERS/OPERATORS
(OR ANYONE CITED/PUNISHED FOR S.T.V.R. VIOLATION)
SHARE YOUR
STORY
ANDREWCASTRO@UCHASTINGS.EDU
[Attn. city: do not redact my email. I consent to publication.]
DID THIS HAPPEN TO ANYONE?
• NOT NOTIFIED TO RENEW S .T.V.R. PERMIT
• CITY FAILED TO PROCESS S .T.V.R.
RENEWAL APPLICATION
• CITY REFUSED TO CASH CHECK
• CITY REFUSED TO RENEW UNLESS YOU
SUBMIT C.C.&R./H.O.A. PROOF THAT YOU
ARE ALLOWED TO OPERATE S.T.V.R. ON
YOUR PROPERTY THAT ALREADY HAD
S.T.V.R. PERMIT
• CITY FAILED TO NOTIFY YOU OF ITS
DECISION NOT TO RENEW
• CITY FAILED TO OFFER YOU
ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING ON A
DECISION
• CITY CONFUSED YOU BY GIVING
CONFLICTING STATEMENTS/GUIDANCE
• CITY CITED/PENALIZED YOU FOR
ADVERTISING/RENTING AFTER FAILING TO
PROCESS YOUR RENEWAL APPLICATION
• CITY FORCED YOU TO CANCEL BOOKINGS
• CITY IGNORED YOUR ATTEMTS TO GET
ANSWERS/CLARIFICATION
• CITY IGNORED YOUR PLEAS FOR
ASSISTANCE DURING GLOBAL PANDEMIC
• CITY DISREGARDED YOU WHEN YOU
TOLD IT HOW ITS ACTIONS CAUSED YOU
SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL HARDSHIP AND
EMOTIONAL DISTRESS DURING
PANDEMIC
• CITY CHARGED YOU $250 TO APPEAL ITS
WRONGFUL ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION
• CITY CHARGED YOU 1% T.B.I.D. TAX ON
BOOKING OF 28+ CONSECUTIVE DAYS
• CITY CHARGED T.O.T. ON 31+
CONSECUTIVE DAY BOOKING REPORTED
OVER 2+ CALENDAR MONTHS
(E.G., TAXED T.O.T. FOR 16 DAYS IN DECEMBER AND TAXED 15 DAYS IN JANUARY EVEN
THOUGH THOSE 31+ DAYS WERE PART OF A CONTINUOUS 31+ DAY RENTAL NOT SUBJECT
TO T.O.T.)
• CITY CITED YOU FOR USING OR
OCCUPYING YOUR OWN PROPERTY
• CITY CITED YOU FOR ALLOWING
FAMILY/NON-PAYING GUESTS TO USE OR
OCCUPY YOUR PROPERTY
• CITY OR SHERIFF MADE YOU PROVE YOU
WERE THE OWNER OF YOUR PROPERTY
WHEN USING OR OCCUPYING (OR MADE
YOUR FAMILY/NON-PAYING GUEST PROVE)
• CITY FAILED TO CONSPICUOUSLY OBTAIN
YOUR CONSENT BEFORE GIVING PRIVATE
COMPANIES UNLIMITED RIGHT TO USE OR
SELL YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION
(HAVE YOU RECEIVED CALLS INQUIRING TO PURCHASE YOUR PROPERTY? HAVE YOU
RECEIVED INTRUSIVE LETTERS/CALLS? CITY CURRENTLY GIVES BIG DATA COMPANIES
YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION; INCLUDING PRIVATE BUSINESS INFORMATION SHARED
WITH CITY ONLY FOR TAX REMITTANCE PURPOSES; COMPANIES COMODITIZE INFO
REVEALING YOUR BUSINESS’ AVERAGE NIGHTLY RATES/AVAILABILITY BROKEN DOWN
BY DAY/MONTH/YEAR TO PREDICT PRICES/AVAILABILITY, ETC.)
• CITY OBSTRUCTED YOUR ATTEMPTS TO
INSPECT PUBLIC RECORDS
• CITY DENIED YOUR REQUEST TO INSPECT
DATABASES THAT COLLECT DATA ON YOU
AND YOUR PROPERTY
• ARE YOU AWARE OF INSTANCES WHERE
CITY COUNCIL MEMBERS
DISCUSSED/DECIDED WHAT ACTION THEY
PLANNED TO TAKE BEFORE AN OFFICIAL
VOTE AT A PUBLIC MEETING?
• DID ANYONE APPLY TO JOIN S.T.V.R. AD
HOC COMMITTEE BUT GET DENIED? DO
YOU FEEL DEN IAL OCCURRED BECAUSE OF
PRO-S.T.V.R. VIEWPOINT? DID COUNCIL
CONDUCT INTERVIEWS FOR THE POSITION?
• ARE YOU AWARE OF COUNCIL/STAFF WHO
SUBMITTED INACCURATE STATEMENTS OF
ECONOMIC INTEREST?
(FAIR POLITICAL PRACTICES COMMISSION FORM 700)
I’m a law student 1 at UC Hastings looking into
these topics. I’m sorry for any hardship the city
caused. I would like to hear how the city’s actions
affected members of the public.
Thank you,
Andrew Castro
Email: andrewcastro@uchastings.edu
[Attn. city: do not redact my email. I consent to publication.]
In case of redaction: my email is my first and last
name at UC Hastings dot EDU with no spaces or
punctuation.
1 I am not an attorney. I am not admitted to practice law in any jurisdiction. This is not legal advice, nor is it a solicitati on to
provide/refer you to legal advice or services in the future. If you need legal assistance, contact a licensed attorney. See the California
Judicial Branch website for resources: https://www.courts.ca.gov/selfhelp-findlawyer.htm?rdeLocaleAttr=en
1
Tania Flores
From:Tania Flores
Sent:Tuesday, March 1, 2022 3:05 PM
To:Tania Flores
Subject:RECEIVED: Gilbert WRITTEN comment - DH Jan 24, 2022 PH1 Griffin Estate SPEV
From: Rgilbert61
Sent: Monday, January 24, 2022 11:00 AM
To: Carlos Flores <cflores@laquintaca.gov>
Subject: Application for Special Permit 2021‐0008
EXTERNAL: This message originated outside of the City of La Quinta. Please use proper judgement and caution
when opening attachments, clicking links or responding to requests for information.
Hi Carlos,
I received the notice for the Directors Hearing regarding the Public Hearing for the Application for a
Special Event Permit 2021-0008.
My family resides in Griffin Ranch - House . We are opposed to this application, we purchased
our home for the tranquility and do not want to see this tranquility infringed upon due to outdoor venues.
We already have Coachella and StageCoach and do not want to add to more outdoor venues in this close
proximity to our home.
Thank you for your consideration
John and Ronda Gilbert
DIRECTOR'S HEARING - JANUARY 24, 2022 - WRITTEN COMMENT BY RESIDENT JOHN AND RONDA GILBERT
PUBLIC HEARING ITEM NO. 1 - GRIFFIN ESTATE SPEV