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1997 11 18 CC Minutes^ 1' LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES NOVEMBER 18, 1997 Regular meeting of the La auinta City Council Was called to order at the hour of 3:00 p.m. by Mayor Holt, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. PRESENT: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Holt ABSENT: None PUBLIC COMMENT Seth Etinger, 78-720 Avenida La Fonda, advised that a number of residents would be arriving around 4:00 p.m. for Study Session Item No.1 and he hoped Council would be able to accommodate them by holding the discussion around that time. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Mr. Genovese, City Manager, requested that an item be added to the Consent Calendar for the adoption of a resolution accepting daily passes to the Skins Game Golf F Tournament to be held November 28-30, 1997 at Rancho La Quinta, noting that the availability of the passes came up after the agenda had been posted. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to add the Adoption of a Resolution Accepting Daily Passes to the Skins Game Golf Tournament to be held November 28-30, 1997 at Rancho La Quinta, as Consent Calendar Item No.8 as the item came up after the agenda had been posted. Motion carried unanimously. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council Minutes of October 28 and November 4, 1997 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. ANNOUNCEMENTS None BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1'City Council Minutes 2 November 18, 1997 PRESENTATION S President Craig Zundel of the Church in Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, presented a Proclamation to Mayor Holt in appreciation for outstanding leadership and dedication in preserving family values in the community. WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE 1. LETTER FROM GREATER COACHELLA VALLEY SOAP BOX DERBY REQUESTING FUNDING. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the funding for this item was eliminated during the budget hearings. Council Member Henderson noted that Council had expected to consider this funding request under the Community Services Grant process, but due to some confusion, an application was not submitted. She further noted that their program has been expanded to include recycling and that they hope to access some of the AB939 funds. She wished for staff to work with them*to find out if their recycling efforts fit the guidelines of those funds. Council Member Sniff agreed. Council concurred on directing this matter to staff. 2. LETTER FROM SPECIAL OLYMPICS REQUESTING FUNDING. Mayor Holt advised that she represented the City at the Special Olympics last year and felt it was a great program. Council Member Henderson suggested that staff be directed to inform them of the City's process for considering funding requests during the budget process. Council Member Adolph agreed. Council Member Sniff expressed concern about their need for funding this year. Council Member Perkins advised that he strongly supports the Special Olympics, but believed Council should stick to the policy they've set forth for funding requests. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 3 November 1 8, 1997 F' Council Member Sniff suggested the possibility of considering it under the Community Services Grant applications if there are funds remaining. Council Member Henderson questioned Council being able to determine which organizations to make exceptions for. Council Member Sniff felt that's why it's important to maintain a contingency fund. Council concurred on considering Business Session Item No. 1 *Community Services Grant Applications) before considering this matter any further. 3. LETTER FROM DIANE HOZMAN REGARDING ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS TO SERVE ON THE PARKS & RECREATION COMMISSION. Council concurred on directing staff to send Ms. Hozman a letter, expressing Council's appreciation for her interest, but informing her of the City's residency requirements and that she would be notified if those requirements change. P BUSINESS SESSION 1. CONSIDERATION OF CULTURAL COMMISSION'S RECOMMENDATION FOR COMMUNITY SERVICES GRANT FUNDING FOR*FlSCAL YEAR 1997198. Mr. Weiss, Assistant City Manager, advised that the Cultural Commission has completed their review of the Community Services Grant Applications and has submitted their funding recommendations for Council's consideration. In addition, staff asked that Council consider a request regarding the City assuming responsibility for administering the Miss La Quinta Pageant program letter of request is included in the staff report). Council Member Henderson didn't feel it would be appropriate for the City to take over the pageant program, but suggested the various service organizations and City Commissions be notified. of the need to see if any of them would be interested in adopting the program. Council Member Sniff agreed. Council Member Henderson advised that she felt the Commission did a great job reviewing the applications, but has some questions regarding some of their recommendations. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1'City Council Minutes 4 November 18, 1997 Council Member Perkins felt they did an excellent job and advised that he supports their recommendations. Mayor Holt agreed and stated that, although, everyone has their own preferences, she felt that Council had asked the Commission to give their recommendation and she hated to see it torn apart. Council Member Sniff noted that he was against having the Cultural Commission make all of the recommendations because he felt some of the applications would be more appropriately reviewed by other commissions, but since they were asked, he felt their recommendations should be accepted. He was opposed to advertising the availability of funds and suggested in the future that a contingency fund be established for Council to draw from when requests are received. Council Member Henderson felt it was clear that there would be no advertising of funds next year. Council Member Adolph agreed that the Commission has done a wonderful job and felt that all of the organizations applying for funding were worthy organizations. However, he believed the City's tax dollars should be used for organizations in the City first, rather than short-change them to give to organizations outside of the City. He supported accepting the Commission's recommendations unless one of the Council Members has a great concern over something. Council Member Henderson recommended that the funding for the Miss La Quinta Pageant be held until it's been determined whether or not the pageant will continue. She also recommended that the funding for the Friends of the La Quinta Library be held until discussions are held with them regarding possible changes to the library system that could affect some of their proposed expenditures. She also pointed out that many of the applications failed to include operating budgets or else contained old 990 forms Council Member Sniff agreed that in the future, La Quinta-based organizations should have first priority for the funding, if not exclusivity. He felt that by recommending grants to every organization except one, the Commission has somewhat pro-rated the funding, whereas Council has always based it on which services were most worthy. He didn't*t have a problem with Council Member Henderson's suggestion to hold back the funding from the Miss La Quinta Pageant and Friends of the La Quinta Library for right now. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 5 November 18, 1 997 Council Member Adolph agreed with Council Member Henderson on the library issue. Council Member Perkins stated that having served on the allocation committee for the United Way, he appreciates the work involved in making such decisions and didn't wish to second-guess the Commission, therefore, supported their recommendation in its entirety. MOTION It was moved by Council*Members Sniff/Henderson to support the recommendation of the Cultural Commission on award of the Community Services Grant Funds with the exception of the funding for the Miss La Quinta Pageant and the Friends of the La Quinta Library, which shall be held in reserve and dealt with at a later date. In response to Mayor Holt, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, confirmed that even if Council should allocate funding for the pageant, it wouldn't be distributed to the pageant until it has been determined that the pageant will continue. Council Member Perkins advised that he would support the motion with the understanding that Council will review the two funding requests, and very F possibly approve them, in the immediate future. Mayor Holt agreed. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-174. Mr. Genovese advised that the funding request from the Special Olympics will be brought forward when Council reviews the pageant and library funding requests again. 2. CONSIDERATION OF PARTICIPATION IN APPERTAINING PIECE FOR 1997 SKINS GAME. Mr. Weiss, Assistant City Manager, advised that on November 4, 1 997, Mr. Cullinan, of Rancho La Quinta, advised the Council that a $20,000 contribution would be sufficient for the City to participate in the promotional video to be shown during the Skins Game. The Citys contribution last year was $50,000 and this year Palm Desert and Indio are considering contributions as well. He advised that the proposed script is included in the staff report. Council Member Adolph asked how City's funds are used to advertise the City and if such advertising funds could be used for this promotion. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' 5 City Council Minutes 6 November 18, 1 997 Mr. Weiss advised that a portion of the economic development funds are used for such things as developing brochures and purchasing advertising space in business publications that reference the City's business opportunities and some of the funding comes out of the General Fund. He felt the focus for this promotion is somewhat different because it limits the City on how specific it can be regarding certain signage or business locations, etc. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, confirmed that approximately $350,0O0-$400,000 is allocated from the General Fund for non-specific marketing through the Palm Springs Desert Resorts and Convention Visitors Bureau. Council Member Adolph questioned why the City isn*t provided a breakdown on how those monies are spent. Mr. Genovese noted the difficulty in tracking what is spent for La Quinta specifically because of it being a regional program. Council Member Henderson felt the City's level of participation is supported by the La Quinta Hotel, noting that the formula for figuring the City's contribution is based on the Transient Occupancy Tax TOT) that the City receives. Mayor Holt felt it's difficult to separate out one city because they're actually marketing the entire valley when they try to lure markets away from other areas. Council Member Sniff suggested changing the last line of the proposed script to read-"... truly special cities under the desert sun." Council Member Perkins suggested the previous paragraph begin The cities of Palm Desert and La Quinta offer vibrant economies.... MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniffled to authorize a contribution of $20,000 from General Fund Reserves toward a 45-second promotional spot to be aired Saturday of the 1 997 Skins Game with modified language in the script. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97- 175. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 7 November 1 8, 1 997 3. CONSIDERATION OF THE HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY BY MELLON AND ASSOCIATES FUNDED BY A CERTIFIED LOCAL GOVERNMENT GRANT AS REQUIRED BY CHAPTER 7.06 HISTORIC RESOURCES, HISTORIC LANDMARKS, AND HISTORIC DISTRICTS. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA. Ms. di Iorio, Planning Manager, advised that the Historic Resources Survey which is a City-wide survey of historic resources, has identified 72 properties as being eligible for landmark status and 6 of those properties are eligible for the National Register of Historic Places. The survey has been reviewed by the Historic Preservation Commission and the State Historic Preservation Office has recommended its acceptance. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. di Iorio advised that the houses were dated through building permits and the County Assessor's Office; The dating for the Hunt Date Gardens was based on research and some dates are circa, or approximate, dates. Council Member Sniff questioned the County's records, noting that a lot of structures in the Cove were built without permits and also questioned the Hunt Date Gardens being established in 1 904, noting that there weren't a sufficient F number of palm trees available in the valley at that time. Ms. di Iorio advised that it might be better clarified as a homestead instead of a date garden because some other type of agriculture might have been present at that time. She advised that she would check into it further. Council Member Henderson noted that Page 3 of the report indicates that some estimating was involved because of the absence of building permits. She felt it was a good document and that the Historic Preservation Commission should be proud and she was pleased to see the recommendati6n to investigate the Mills Act. In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. di Iorio advised that Volume Two consists of the survey forms and Volume One is the context statement. Council Member Henderson recommended that it be forwarded to the Planning Commission for review and suggested that the final document be bound and made available to the public. She pointed out that the City hasn't approved a system whereby it can declare a site to be an historic site without complete cooperation of the property owner. Ms. di Iorio advised that they're creating incentives for listing as a landmark status for both commercial and residential buildings. She also noted that a BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1'City Council Minutes 8 November 1 8, 1 997 presentation on the Mills Act and landmark status would be given at the Historic Preservation Commission meeting on November 20th. Council Member Sniff referred to Page 9 of the report and noted what he felt were inaccuracies in the number of homes built between 1 935 and 1 950. RESOLUTION NO.97-88 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, ACCEPTING THE FINAL REPORT AND SURVEY DOCUMENTS FOR THE CITY OF LA QUINTA HISTORIC RESOURCES SURVEY. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.97- 88 as amended, if deemed appropriate. Motion carried unanimously. 4. CONSIDERATION OF CONTRIBUTING $10,000 TOWARD THE REPAIRS OF MILES AVENUE THROUGH THE WHITEWATER CHANNEL. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that the City of Indian Wells has asked the City of La Quinta to participate in the replacement of the Miles Avenue/Whitewater Channel Crossing in Indian Wells in the amount of $9,843. The project is estimated to cost $593,720 and $41 1 780 of this amount will be paid from Federal Emergency Relief Funds. The proposed total local participation is $98,428 with 50% coming from CVAG and the remaining 50% coming from Riverside County and the cities of Indian Wells, lndio, Palm Desert, and La Quinta. The cities of Indian Wells, lndio, and Palm Desert have committed their percentages and, although, the County has indicated an interest in completing the work with their in-house staff and absorbing the overhead costs, they haven*t made a commitment to their percentage of the costs. He pointed out that there is no guarantee that the channel crossing won*t wash out again, but if it is, Indian Wells or the County would be eligible to apply for Highway Bridge Rehabilitation and Replacement Grant monies. Robert Tyler, 44-21 5 Villeta Drive, urged Council to approve the request because it will help alleviate some of the traffic congestion on other streets. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Vogt advised that he hasn't seen the plans, but understands that the low-water crossing will have some type of pipe going through it to allow nuisance water or runoff from a small storm to flow through. He thought it might be similar to the Adams Street crossing. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 9 November 18, 1997 Council Member Adolph asked how re-opening Miles Avenue would impact traffic and noise through the residential areas and proposed school sites. He was also concerned about the effect of El Nino on the newly-constructed crossing and how the crossing might develop other problems for the City. Mr. Vogt ad\,ised that he wasn't aware of any new traffic counts, but felt the street would be more prone to local traffic since it's a two-lane facility. Council Member Perkins felt with the improvements made to Highway 111 and Washington Street, that the traffic wouldn't be much more than it was before the wash-out and since there*s no guarantee when disasters will take place, he didn*t feel the repairs should be delayed because of the threat of El Nino. He felt the crossing would improve traffic flow and supported contributing funds to the project. Council Member Sniff agreed and felt it would have peripheral benefits to the residents of La Quinta. Council Member Henderson advised that she also supported the request. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Sniff to appropriate an amount not to exceed $10,000 from the General Fund Reserves and contribute F an amount not to exceed $10,000 to the City of Indian Wells and the County of Riverside to reconstruct the two-lane, low-water crossing on Miles Avenue across the Whitewater Channel. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-176. 5. CONSIDERATION OF ALTERNATIVES FOR THE CITY'S STREET SWEEPING PROGRAM. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that on May 6, 1997, Council approved a pilot program for in-house, street-sweeping services. Upon the completion of 1 3 sweeping cycles, an analysis of the services show improvements to response times and services with only three complaints. He advised that a cost analysis for five different street sweeping service options are contained in the staff report, ranging from in-house service with purchased equipment to contracting out for services. It seems that purchasing a street sweeper and completing the services in-house is the most cost-effective and provides the best service option. He advised that SunLine recently received a grant to fund nine compressed natural gas CNG) street sweepers and since the City was a part of that grant application, the City will receive $28,092 to offset the $151 200 cost of purchasing a CNG fuel vehicle, leaving a balance of BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' 1 City Council Minutes 10 November 18, 1997 $1 23,108 to be funded from the equipment replacement fund. However, the City receives approximately $20,000 annually for pollution reduction and if the City's subvention funds of $61,108 are allocated toward the cost of the street sweeper, South Coast Air Quality Management District SCAQMD) will provide an additional 25% $15,277) from their discretionary fund, leaving a balance of only $46,723 to be funded from the equipment replacement fund. Under this scenario, the repayment to the equipment replacement fund would be $9,345 a year for five years, lowering the per-curb-mile cost significantly. Staff is also checking with SCAQMD to see if the City can draw on its future AB 2766 funds. Should Council decide to move forward with the in-house operation option, staff will prepare bid specifications and advertise for the street sweeper and bring the various funding scenarios back to Council for consideration. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Vogt advised that staff is looking to upgrade the job description for the Maintenance Worker II position so that the services can be provided by City staff. The operator expense is listed under each option in the attachments. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Vogt advised that staff is looking at a 40-hour work week to service 1 75 miles of City streets. Council Member Henderson asked how much of a drop staff expected in the per-curb-mile cost to which Mr. Vogt responded from $10.10 to *8.42. She questioned what has happened to economies of scale by being a part of a regional program, noting that SunLine is asking for $16 per curb mile to provide the service and has, in fact, asked that she request a two-week continuance on this issue while they review their figures. She wished to move forward, but wished also to give SunLine time to review their figures so they are comfortable that they cannot meet the City's schedule. Council Member Sniff supported moving forward, barring SunLine being able to come up with a better figure. Council Member Adolph asked if staff knew why the City's figure is so much less than SunLine's to which Mr. Vogt responded that he didn't know, but is comfortable with staff's estimates. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to: 1) approve the implementation of an in-house Street Sweeping Program; 2) authorize staff to prepare bid specifications for the purchase of a Tymco 600 CNG-BAH Regenerative Air Street Sweeper or equivalent in the amount of approximately $151,200; and 3) authorize staff to amend the job description and responsibilities for a Maintenance Worker II position to include street sweeper operation. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-177. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 11 November 18, 1 997 6. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 2.20.160 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING POST-DISASTER SAFETY ASSESSMENT PLACARDS. Mr. Hartung, Building & Safety Director, advised that the proposed ordinance approves the placement of placards on buildings indicating their condition after emergencies such as earthquakes. The ordinance also establishes tampering of placards as a misdemeanor. Council Member Perkins felt it's extremely important to adopt this ordinance in order to give proper authority to the Building Department MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to take up Ordinance No.310 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried unanimously. ORDINANCE NO.310 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, ADDING TITLE 2, CHAPTER 2.20.160 TO THE LA QUINTA F CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to introduce Ordinance No.310 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Holt NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None 7. CONSIDERATION OF AN AMENDMENT TO SECTION 8.06 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING SWIMMING POOL SAFETY. Mr. Hartung, Building & Safety Director, advised that the State's recently- adopted Swimming Pool Safety Act requires all jurisdictions to have safety regulations in place that prevent children from falling into pools and drowning. Also included, must be some type of regulation preventing children from leaving their own home and having access to a pool unattended. Currently, the City's Municipal Code requires fencing around pools except in gated communities, but it does not restrict children from leaving their own home and falling into a pool. He advised that the restrictions could be placed on all private pools in the City or the City could choose to continue exempting pools within gated communities. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' I City Council Minutes 12 November 18, 1997 Council Member Perkins felt the ordinance should be extended to all swimming pools, including gated communities, but noted that many gated communities have large lakes that wouldn't be fenced. Council Member Adolph agreed, n6ting that there's an unfenced canal running through PGA West, making it seem somewhat ridiculous to require fencing of the pools. He asked if the homeowner associations had been contacted for input and if residents would be given an option regarding the installation of door alarms. Mr. Hartung advised that it's been discussed with the BIA, but he noted that fencing would not be required in gated communities. In regard to the door alarm options, he advised that residents would be able to select from five different options as outlined in the staff report. Mayor Holt felt it would promote more of a sense of responsibility. Mr. Hartung advised that the cities of Indian Wells and Palm Desert have exempted gated communities from any type of restrictions, unlike the City of Palm Springs, which has less gated communities. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Hartung advised that the ordinance would not be retroactive. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Hartung confirmed that the new restrictions would apply equally to those within and those outside of gated communities. Council Member Henderson questioned the language in Section 8.06.050(e) to which Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that it would be corrected in the final document. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to take up Ordinance No.311 by title and number only and waive further reading. Council Member Perkins advised that he would not support the motion because he didn't feel that it made sense to have such restrictions in gated communities with large lakes. Motion carried with Council Member Perkins voting NO. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' a City Council Minutes 13 November 18, 1997 ORDINANCE NO.311 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA. CALIFORNIA. AMENDING TITLE 8, CHAPTER 8.06 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE. It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to introduce Ordinance No. 311 with modified language in Section 8.06.050(e) on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Sniff, Mayor Holt NOES: Council Member Perkins ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None CONSENT CALENDAR 1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED NOVEMBER 18, 1997. 2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 FOR F THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND LA QUINTA FINANCING AUTHORITY. 3. APPROVAL OF SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENTS WITHIN TRACT 28019. THE SEASONS" WILLIAMS DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. 4. APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT 28410-1, MCCOMIC CONSOLIDATED. INC. 5. APPROVAL OF FISCAL YEAR 1997/98 BUDGET APPROPRIATION OF $1,000 FROM GENERAL FUND RESERVES TO CENTRAL SERVICES TO COVER COST OF REPLACING OPTICAL DISK DRIVE IN THE CITY CLERK'S DEPARTMENT. 6. APPROVAL OF FISCAL YEAR 1997198 BUDGET APPROPRIATION FROM GENERAL FUND RESERVES FOR LEGAL EXPENSES. 7. APPROVAL OF TITLE CHANGE FROM ACCOUNTING SUPERVISOR TO ACCOUNTING MANAGER. 8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DAILY PASSES TO THE SKINS GAME GOLF TOURNAMENT TO BE HELD NOVEMBER 28-30,1997 AT RANCHO LA QUINTA. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' I City Council Minutes 14 November 18, 1997 MOTION It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with Item No. 8 being approved by RESOLUTION NO.97-89. Motion carried with Council Member Perkins voting NO. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-178. STUDY SESSION 1. REVIEW AND DISCUSSION OF STORM WATER DRAINAGE FACILITIES SERVING THE COVE AREA. Mr. Speer, Senior Engineer, advised that this issue is being presented primarily because of the current condition of the partially-finished unlandscaped) Calle Rondo ditch which was originally constructed in 1 990 by Landmark Land Company as a condition of the Citrus Course development. The ditch is not expected to be completed until the Citrus Course development has reached 50% build-out and it's currently at approximately 20%. He advised that there was little drainage in the ditch until completion of the Phase 4 and 5 Cove improvements from 1991 to 1993. He then reviewed the entire storm water drainage system for the Cove, pointing out the various drainage*paths that lead to the Calle Rondo ditch. Due to the flat terrain of the Calle Rondo ditch area, silt from nuisance water builds up and causes the water to pond and in high-flow situations, the water has to back up 4Y2-feet deep before it achieves maximum flow through the grates in the Citrus Course perimeter wall. It's been suggested that the Calle Rondo ditch be abandoned, but he advised that that is not an option because it's the lowest elevation in the original subdivided area of the City. In conclusion, he presented three alternatives for improving the Calle Rondo ditch. The first alternative would be to proceed with the current plan wherein the Citrus Course developer would landscape the ditch in its current configuration when their development is 50% complete. He noted that the City has filed a court complaint in an effort to expedite the landscaping. Alternative No.2 would be to construct a slump-stone block wall between the ditch and the street at a cost of approximately $260,000, excluding the cost of landscaping which the Citrus Course developer would still be responsible for. The third alternative would be to install underground conduit in the ditch at a cost of approximately $550,000, also excluding the cost of the landscaping. The Council felt it was an excellent presentation and Council Member Henderson suggested staff present it to the Planning Commission as well. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 1 5 November 18, 1997 In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Speer advised that the lowAlow system created by Landmark, sends the nuisance water out under Avenue 52 to the Ahmanson Ranch area at 79 CFS to keep the water from flowing onto the golf course, but when the Ahmanson Ranch is developed, other improvements will have to be made to handle the nuisance water. The water would continue south into the detention basin along Avenue 52 should a culvert be installed. Council Member Adolph stated when he looked at the site, that water was coming from the golf course into the ditch instead of the opposite direction and he asked if there's any type of agreement to prevent that from happening. Mr. Speer confirmed that KSL does pump storm water into the ditch for drainage into their property at the Ahmanson Ranch area from both the Citrus and Dunes Courses. Seth Etinger, 78-720 Avenida La Fonda, reviewed some of the history related to the drainage ditch and the problems that it has created. He felt the nuisance water that's being pumped into the Calle Rondo ditch should be pumped instead into the evacuation channel and that the golf course running through the evacuation channel should be reconfigured to allow proper drainage of the nuisance water. He showed several pictures depicting the condition of the F drainage ditch over several years as well as pictures of the evacuation channel. He pointed out that the Dunes Course is pumping water out of the evacuation channel and into his neighborhood and he asked Council to see that the system is changed so that the water goes where it's supposed to. A petition containing 145-1 50 signatures was submitted.) Ray Moosbrugger, 78-725 Calle Tampico, felt the golf courses are monopolizing use of the evacuation channel by placing a golf fairway and lake Lake Oleander) down through it, noting that when the *lake" fills up, it's pumped down Calle Tampico and into the Calle Rondo ditch area where he lives. He felt if the evacuation channel was opened up for proper usage, that it would solve the problems related to the Calle Rondo ditch. Bobby Melkesian, 50-795 Calle Guaymas, questioned where the Citrus Course water is supposed to go, where the water being pumped into the ditch by the Dunes Course is supposed to go, and why it doesn't all go to the same place that the Cove nuisance water goes. He also asked why the golf courses aren't landscaped on the outside area that faces other homeowners. Bob Helgeson, 78-715 Calle Tampico, noted that a block wall between the street and ditch would at least block the view of the drainage ditch, but felt an BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' I City Council Minutes 1 6 November 1 8, 1997 enclosed system would be best. He also felt it would help if the drain outlet at Avenue 52 were improved/cleaned out so the water would drain faster. Dane Hooper, 78-620 Avenida Tujunga, questioned the drainage rate at Avenue 52 and felt it's untenable for water to be pumped from the evacuation channel into the ditch. He felt no one should have permission to pump water from the channel into the street receiving system. Mr. Etinger advised that a CVWD representative has advised him that they could be helpful in solving the City's problems with the flow in the evacuation channel. He noted that water is pumped into his neighborhood from the huge retention basin at the apartments next to the evacuation channel. He also referred to some 4' X 5' concrete boxes at The Tradition which he believed would transport even more water into the system. He felt it's corrupt for anyone to be allowed to pump water from the evacuation channel. He hoped something would be done and asked that the residents be kept informed. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that the City is working with J. M. Peters and KSL to get the landscaping and perimeter wall completed, noting that no further development of the land will be allowed until those two issues have been resolved. He advised that the Calle Rondo ditch is within the homeowner association and has not been dedicated for City use. He noted that the Citrus Golf Course is a detention basin first and a golf course second. The City can try to make the ditch more presentable and/or hidden, but it has no legal right to stop KSL from pumping storm water from their detention basin into the Calle Rondo ditch as long as it's not taken over the street into public right-of-way. In addressing some of the other questions, Mr. Speer advised that low-water levels will not flow in the evacuation channel because the channel is too flat. In regard to the Avenue 52 drain outlet, he advised that the outlet was not clean when the storm came in September which inhibited the rate of water flow. The cost of installing underground conduit at the Calle Rondo ditch and increasing the size of the pipes to send all the water under Avenue 52 and out to the Ahmanson Ranch could easily exceed $1 5 million. In regard to the revised storm drain sVstem at The Tradition, he advised that the water will not be directed into the Calle Rondo ditch as they've agreed to retain the water on- site in two retention basins. To drain storm water from a lower elevation drainage system into a higher one, would require pumping which is cost- prohibitive and should a detention basin be built north of Circle K to retain the water for pumping, the evacuation channel would be too flat to carry the water, making it an objectionable option if there's no way of doing it without interrupting the golf course. He advised that staff has proposed pumping BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' d City Council Minutes 17 November 18, 1997 drainage water into the irrigation system, but CVWD has not been receptive to that proposal so far. Mayor Holt advised the audience that the City is looking for solutions, but it*s going to take time. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Speer advised that the nuisance water from the Cove flows into the evacuation channel. The water in the lower area near the dike flows into the Calle Rondo ditch. When the Season*s property was purchased from Landmark, the City agreed to stop the nuisance water from flowing there and to allow them to pump back into the Calle Tampico storm drain and out into their other properties. This has been objectionable because its exposed to public view. Mr. Vogt advised that staff is recommending that the City contract with a hydrology firm to prepare an analysis of what the City*s actual flows are to provide a more accurate picture of the size and cost of different alternatives. Council Member Sniff felt the evacuation channel should be made more functional. F Council Member Henderson felt an overall storm water drain report is due and that it would help in addressing these problems. Council concurred on directing staff to bring this issue back for further consideration in December. Council recessed to Closed Session to and until the hour of 7:00 p.m. CLOSED SESSION Mayor Holt abstained from participating in Item No.2 as she has consistently done in the past. 1. Conference with legal counsel pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(a) regarding existing litigation, City of La Quinta vs. Parc La Quinta, Case No. INC 004514. 2. Conference with City's real property negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8, concerning the potential terms and conditions of acquisition and/or disposition of real property located at the southeast corner of Highway 111 and Adams Street. Property Owner/Negotiator: Chris Clarke. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' I City Council Minutes 18 November 18, 1997 7:00P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT Ernie Bacca, 52-790 Avenida Navarro, stated that his wife applied to serve on VIPS, but was turned down without an explanation and he wished to know why since it's a volunteer organization. ANNOUNCEMENT Captain Dye. advised that, effective January 1 5, 1 998, he would be transferred to the Sheriff's Office in Riverside. He introduced Captain Dana Singerton as his successor, advising that she's currently the commander of the Clark Training Center in Riverside and has been with the Sheriff's Department since 1974. Captain Singerton stated that she's looking forward to working with the City. Council expressed their appreciation for Captain Dye's fine service to the City and the City Manager noted that he has become a part of the staff and considered the City's Chief of Police. PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. TENTATIVE TRACT 28409, REVISED TO REVISE THE GRADING PLAN FOR AN APPROVED SUBDIVISION OF 19 SINGLE-FAMILY AND OTHER COMMON LOTS ON 9.15 ACRES LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF AVENIDA MONTEZUMA, EAST OF THE BEAR CREEK CHANNEL ANb WEST OF AVENIDA JUAREZ. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. Ms. di Iorio, Planning Manager, advised that the applicant has proposed a revised grading plan for Tract 28409 in order to conform with existing topography of the site. He advised that the tract was originally approved in 1 997 and that the revised grading plan would not adversely affect the adjacent residences. The Planning Commission has recommended approval. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. di Iorio confirmed that Lot 20 is for a turf retention basin for which an easement will be provided. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 19 November 18, 1997 There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED. RESOLUTION NO.97-90 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING CHANGES TO THE GRADING PLAN FOR TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28409 A 19-LOT, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION AND MISCELLANEOUS LETTERED LOTS ON APPROXIMATELY 9.15 ACRES LOCATED ON THE NORTH SIDE OF AVENIDA MONTEZUMA AND EAST OF THE BEAR CREEK CHANNEL. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.97- 90 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. 2. CHANGE OF ZONE 97-084- TO CHANGE THE GC DESIGNATION TO RL FOR A PROPOSED NEW RESIDENTIAL LOT WITHIN TRACT 28470-1 AND TENTATIVE TRACT 28611 TO RECONFIGURE 21 EXISTING LOTS INTO 32 RESIDENTIAL LOTS AND CREATE ONE NEW RESIDENTIAL LOT IN THE NORTHEAST PORTION OF TRACT 28470-1, LOCATED SOUTH OF THE INTERSECTION OF AVENUE 52 AND WASHINGTON STREET. APPLICANT: F WINCHESTER DEVELOPMENT. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. Ms. di Iorio, Planning Manager, advised that this is a proposal to change the zoning on 1.09 acres from Golf Course GC) to Low-Density Residential RL), to reduce the size of 21 existing lots into 32 lots, and to add a new lot. She advised that Tract 28611 is located within Tract 28470-1, the Tradition Club which was approved on April 1, 1997 and that the Planning Commission has recommended approval. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. di Iorio advised that the new lot sizes range from 11 000 to 1 9,000 sq. ft. There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1'City Council Minutes 20 November 1 8, 1 997 RESOLUTION NO.97-91 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT, FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 97-34, PREPARED FOR ZONE CHANGE 97-084 AND TENTATIVE TRACT 28611 FOR THE RECONFIGURING OF 21 EXISTING RESIDENTIAL LOTS INTO 32 RESIDENTIAL LOTS, THE CREATION OF ONE NEW RESIDENTIAL LOT REQUIRING THE ZONE CHANGE FROM GOLF COURSE GC) TO LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL RL), LOCATED SOUTH OF THE INTERSECTION OF WASHINGTON STREET AND AVENUE 52. APPLICANT: WINCHESTER DEVELOPMENT. It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.97- 91 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to take up Ordinance No.31 2 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried unanimously ORDINANCE NO.312 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, RE-ZONING CERTAIN PROPERTY WITHIN THE CITY AS DESCRIBED IN ZONE CHANGE 97-084 WINCHESTER DEVELOPMENT. It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to introduce Ordinance No. 312 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Holt NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None RESOLUTION NO.97-92 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT 28611 TO RECONFIGURE 21 EXISTING RESIDENTIAL LOTS TRACT 28470-1) INTO 32 RESIDENTIAL LOTS, AND CREATE ON RESIDENTIAL LOT WITHIN THE RL ZONE DISTRICT AT THE TRADITION CLUB DEVELOPMENT WINCHESTER DEVELOPMENT. It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.97- 92 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1' City Council Minutes 21 November 18,1997 REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS Riverside County Library Advisory Board Council Member Henderson reported that she and the City Manager met with Supervisor Wilson and Gary Christmas and that the County is extremely interested in keeping La Quinta in their library system. She felt they're doing an extraordinary job in trying to formulate a plan that would be acceptable to the City. Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the County's proposal will be discussed at a study session on December 2. Palm Springs Desert Resorts Convention & Visitor's Bureau Council Member Adolph advised that he obtained some good information on TOT from the last CVB meeting and would be distributing it to Council. All other reports were noted and filed. P DEPARTMENT REPORTS C-i. REPORT REGARDING SPECIAL COUNCIL MEETING FOR SWEARING-IN OF NEWLY-ELECTED OFFICIALS. Mrs. Juhola, City Clerk, advised that a special meeting for swearing-in the newly-elected officials has been scheduled for 7:00 p.m. on November 24, 1 997 if acceptable to Council. Council concurred. H-i. REVENUE & EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED SEPTEMBER 30, 1997 FOR THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND LA QUINTA FINANCING AUTHORITY. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to receive and file the September 30, 1997 Statement of Revenue & Expenditures Report for the City of La Quinta. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-179. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to receive and file the September 30, 1997 Statement of Revenue & Expenditures Report for the La Quinta Financing Authority. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.97-180. BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02 ^ 1'City Council Minutes 22 November 18, 1997 MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE FEASIBILITY OF SELLING BONDS TO BUILD A CITY LIBRARY. A FIRE STATION NORTH OF HIGHWAY 111, AND AN AMPHITHEATER. Council Member Perkins asked staff to bring back in a study session the feasibility of the City selling bonds to construct a City library, a fire station north of Highway 111, and an amphitheater. Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting. Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page 17. Council reconvened with no decision being made which requires reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government Code Brown Act). There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned. Re**ulIy submitted, *SAUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California BIB] 01-13-1998-U01 10:04:22AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 11-U02 18-U02 1997-U02