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1998 02 03 CC Minutes^"1 LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 3, 1998 Regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of 3:00 p.m. by Mayor Pena, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. PRESENT: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena ABSENT: None PUBLIC COMMENT Jessie Ann Chesnut, 52-680 Avenida Villa, on behalf of Valley Partnership and Americorp, presented Certificates of Participation to Council Members Adolph, Henderson, and Mayor Pena for their participation in the Martin Luther King event held on January 1 5, 1 998 in Mecca. She also expressed appreciation for La Quinta High School student, Lameka Ingram, who recited the I Have a Dream" speech in Spanish. Robert Tyler, 44-21 5 Villeta Drive, spoke regarding the Home Depot exits on Jefferson Street and suggested better signage or some modification to the medians to deter traffic from exiting north in the southbound lanes. Council Member Perkins advised that the situation has already been referred to the Traffic Committee for review. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Confirmed APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the City Council Minutes of January 20, 1 998 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. ANNOUNCEMENTS None PRESENTATIONS None WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE None BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 A I City Council Minutes 2 February 3, 1 998 BUSINESS SESSION 1. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE REVISING CHAPTER 6.04, REFUSE DISPOSAL," AND CHAPTER 6.05, RECYCLABLE MATERIALS," TO BRING THEM INTO CONFORMANCE WITH THE ClTY*S CURRENT FRANCHISE AGREEMENT AND RECENT COURT CASES.. Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the proposed ordinance amends the City Code based upon recent court cases and the City*s Franchise Agreement. Tom Freeman, 54-220 Avenida Obregon, Vice President of Waste Management of the Desert, thanked Council for continuing this item on January 20th to allow them additional time to review the document. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to take up Ordinance No.314 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried unanimously. ORDINANCE NO.314 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, REVOKING CHAPTERS 6.04 AND 6.05 AND ESTABLISHING REVISED CHAPTERS 6.04 AND 6.05 OF THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE WHICH SETS FORTH REFUSE DISPOSAL AND RECYCLABLE MATERIALS. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to introduce Ordinance No. 314 on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote: AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena NOES: None ABSENT: None ABSTAIN: None BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 A City Council Minutes 3 February 3, 1 998 2. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION OF AN AUDIT OF WASTE MANAGEMENT OF THE DESERT PURSUANT TO THE AGREEMENT FOR THE COLLECTION, TRANSPORTATION, AND DISPOSAL OF MUNICIPAL SOLID WASTE. Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that on December 1 7, 1 997, Council directed staff to bring back a report regarding the potential need of an independent audit of the financial records for Waste Management of the Desert WMD). Contained in the staff report is a report from Arnstein Consulting who was hired to prepare an analysis of WMD's reconciliation records. He then reviewed the following five steps in staff*s recommendations.* 1) Hold a meeting with Waste Management and their auditor to outline a format for them to follow in reporting their services to the City; 2) Request WMD to provide sample route audits of both residential and commercial routes; to determine total average pounds collected per La Quinta household and pounds collected per cubic yard of commercial bin space) 3) Request WMD to provide a detailed route audit and map as stated in the Franchise Agreement; to determine precise number of accounts) 4) Request more detail in the monthly reports; and 5) If insufficient data is obtained, a full audit can be initiated for approximately $15,000. However, staff*s recommendation is to work with WMD to. provide the requested information. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman confirmed that the requested information is part of the 1 996 Franchise Agreement, but the City is asking for more detail to avoid having to do an independent audit. Council Member Perkins asked if the requests have been di*cussed with WMD. He felt they may have the information we need and it appeared to him that we*re hiring consultants to review consultants. Mr. Herman noted that Mr. Arnstein was hired to review the reconciliation for FY 1995/96 and was asked to provide additional information on how to improve the process by making it more comprehensive. Council Member Perkins suggested asking WMD some questions before incurring costs for a consultant. Mayor Pena agreed. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 A * City Council Minutes 4 February 3, 1998 Council Member Sniff advised that he didn't have a problem with it. He felt staff's recommendation is a cautious and prudent approach that may, or may not, lead to an audit and he didn't see any major expense connected with it. Council Member Henderson felt the requested information should be readily available and that the City was only asking for it in a different format. She questioned the need for WMD to implement a Route Smart system, noting that the costs would most likely be charged back to the City and she wasn't sure how the City would cover the costs. She saw it as a major cost back to the rate-payer. Tom Freeman, 54-220 Avenida Obregon, Vice President of Waste Management of the Desert, stated that they are in agreement with most of the requests, noting that they already provide data on the curbside recycling program from which they make no profit. In regard to the discrepancy referred to on Page 3 of the staff report, he advised that most of it is due to an error made in placing 300 accounts within Palm Royale on the tax rolls and they're in the process of correcting it. They feel the remaining discrepancy is due to some commercial accounts having more than one stop such as mobile home parks. He objected to the request for them to use the Route Smart system, noting that they have a similar system already in use and that purchasing a new system at $150,000 would result in a 14% increase in the monthly rate from $9.92 to $11.28. In response to Mayor Pena, he advised that they provided a routing map during the automation phase which they felt fulfilled the requirement, but will provide an additional map per staff's request. If they ask for a CPI increase this year, the amount will only be $.O6lmonth or $.72/year per household which will result in an annual revenue increase for WMD of $6,600 and if the City conducts an audit, it will cost $15,000. In regard to Mr. Arnstein's report, he advised that WMD offered to provide the City with a full financial statement from a Certified Public Accounting firm last year, but the City chose to hire Mr. Arnstein, who is not a CPA. Therefore, he asked for some assurance that any audit directed by Council would be conducted by a CPA. Mayor Pena felt it would be prudent for staff and WMD to discuss these issues to see if some of the recommendations can be narrowed down. Council Member Henderson felt that the information seemed to be readily available and didn't have a problem with asking WMD to provide it in a format that would better suit our needs because the City has a responsibility to the citizens to maintain checks and balances. Council Member Perkins agreed. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 I * City Council Minutes 5 February 3, 1998 Council Member Adolph agreed with staff and WMD meeting to work out these issues, noting that it cost $5,000 last year to find a $300 error in WMDts reporting which is not good economics. Council Member Sniff believed audits serve a useful purpose, but that it's always productive to work things out if possible. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to continue the audit of Waste Management of the Desert to March 1 7, 1 998. Council Member Henderson suggested that in the future, the rate adjustment be referred to as the CPI adjustment agreed upon in the Franchise Agreement, rather than a rate increase. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.96-16. 3. CONSIDERATION OF THE DESIGN LAYOUT FOR THE FRITZ BURNS PARK PUBLIC POOL AND FACILITIES AND AUTHORIZE NOTICE TO PROCEED. Mayor Pena abstained due to a conflict of interest and left the dais. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that on January 20, 1 998, Council reviewed preliminary design plans for the Fritz Burns Park pool facility and awarded a design/construct contract to California Commercial Pools, Inc. He advised that the contractor is prepared to begin construction immediately upon approval in order to fast-track the project. Per Council*s request, the equipment room has been increased in size to facilitate future heating equipment and the decorative gate has been incorporated into the design of the entryway. The Parks & Recreation Commission has reviewed the plans and submitted 18 suggestions for changes and/or additions listed in the staff report), some of which have also been incorporated into the final design. He then proceeded to review the final plans, pointing out some of the changes and/or additions as follows: the lockers have been changed to a basket system; skylights have been added to locker rooms; rear roof has been extended for shade; wading pool depth will range from 12 to 30 inches; shade structure has been doubled in size and changed to steel-tubing with screening roof and plumbing for future misting system; and, other items as listed in the staff report. The restrooms will be separated from the main building by a solid block wall to make the restrooms accessible year-round and minimize vandalism. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Vogt advised that there will be no landscaping within the fenced area and no furnishings under the shade structure BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 I. City Council Minutes 6 February 3, 1 998 except for moveable lounge chairs that Coachella Valley Recreation & Park District CVRPD) will provide. In response to Council Member Adolph, Lee Jackson, 321 S. Vermont Avenue, Glendora, President of California Commercial Pools, Inc., advised that the basket system consists of pouches and hangers and that they will be stored in the office for security. Council Member Perkins was concerned that moveable furniture would end up in the pool and suggested fixed furniture. He also asked if the plumbing would be stubbed-out for gas to allow for future installation of pool heaters without demolition to which Mr. Jackson responded yes. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Jackson advised that the pouches would be washable and not pose a sanitation problem. Council Member Sniff agreed that the furniture should be fixed as well as adequate, attractive, and functional. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Vogt confirmed that plumbing for water and, partially for sewer, were put in place during construction of the park, but he advised that provisions for electrical couldn't be done until the facility was sized and designed. He further confirmed that staff, the contractor, and CVRPD are all in agreement on the design. Council Member Henderson commended the Parks & Recreation Commission for their input and noted that they are also in agreement with the design. She assumed that the furniture issue would come back to Council when funds are available. She also asked about the length of the main building and suggested some type of recessed feature on the front side that the Art in Public Places Commission could later use for placement of tile work to break up the stark look of the long wall. Mr. Jackson advised that the split-faced-block building would be 80 feet long. He agreed to add a few reveals, as suggested, but noted that there would be some landscaping to break up the starkness as well. Council Member Sniff suggested a three-foot overhang be constructed on both sides of the building, not just the north side, and Mr. Jackson agreed to look into it. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Jackson confirmed that there will be no additional costs for the changes and/or additions. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1City Council Minutes 7 February 3, 1998 MOTION It was moved by Council Members SniffiPerkins to approve the design layout for the Fritz Burns Park Public Pool and Facilities and authorize a Notice to Proceed for the construction to be issued on February 3, 1 998. Motion carried with Mayor Pena ABSENT. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-17. 4. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION DESIGNATING SPEED LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SPECIFIED LOCAL STREETS. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that this item was continued on January 20, 1 996, to address some concerns voiced by one of the Council Members and that those concerns have now been addressed. Council Member Perkins felt it was an excellent report and supported approval with the exception of the Adams Street designation from Highway 111 north to Fred Waring Drive, which he asked to be held off until he meets with staff this week to work out his concerns. Council Member Henderson advised that she spoke to Mrs. Donaldson regarding this issue and hoped the speed on Adams Street would be reduced. Council Member Sniff didn*t have a problem with removing the Adams Street designation. Council Member Adolph agreed that the speed limit on Adams Street should be reduced and suggested that staff look at the speed on Avenida Bermudas as well, noting that residents on that street are having a hard time backing out of their dri**eways with vehicles traveling 50-55 mph even though the speed limit is only 45 mph. Mayor Pena noted another traffic problem where vehicles are using the westbound lanes of Calle Tampico to get from Avenida Bermudas to Circle K. Robert Tyler, 44-21 5 Villeta Drive, questioned when the survey was done because it doesnt provide any speed limit for Avenue 48 when it opens; or for changes in traffic patterns when the crossing at Dune Palms Road is opened. He felt it was unreasonable to propose three different speed limits within a two- mile section of Adams Street and two different speed limits on Dune Palms Road because he believed that drivers ignore speed limits when they don*t make sense. He also questioned why a higher speed limit is proposed for Avenida Bermudas, which is a secondary arterial, than what*s proposed on Eisenhower Drive which is a primary arterial. He suggested these issues be addressed now to avoid amendments later on. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 J J City Council Minutes 8 February 3, 1 998 In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Vogt advised that the speed limit on Avenue 48 will be posted at 45 mph and confirmed that it must be open for traffic before a traffic survey can be done. Council Member Perkins pointed out that radar can't be used on any of these streets until this resolution is adopted. Council Member Adolph asked if the traffic signals would be synchronized with the new speed limits to which Mr. Vogt responded* yes. RESOLUTION NO.98-04 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, DESIGNATING SPEED LIMITS FOR CERTAIN SPECIFIED LOCAL STREETS. It Was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to adopt Resolution No.98-04 as amended, excluding Adams Street north of Highway 111 to Fred Waring Drive. Council Member Henderson advised that, initially, she was concerned about having three different speed limits within a short distance, but pointed out that Council is bound by rules and regulations in setting speed limits and that no progress can be made beyond this report until this resolution is adopted. Motion. carried unanimously. 5. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION TO APPROVE A POTENTIAL SUBLEASE OF OFFICE SPACE TO THE SALT ON SEA AUTHORITY BY THE CITY'S LESSEE, THE LA QUINTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE AT 51-351 AVENIDA BERMUDAS. Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the Chamber of Commerce wishes to sublease the Chamber office on Avenida Bermudas to the Salton Sea Authority SSA) and that the conditions and requirements for subleasing the facility are outlined in the report. Staff has discussed the subleasing requirements, improvements, and rental fee, which is currently $1/month, with representatives from both agencies who are present and available for questions. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that the City's Lease Agreement with the Chamber allows them to sublease the property as long as Council approves and that Council can establish the terms. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 5 * City Council Minutes 9 February 3, 1998 Council Member Sniff felt it's a good idea if the space is adequate and suggested the City indicate that its facilities would be available for meetings when there's no conflict. He supported keeping the rental fee at $1/month or zero because he felt their presence in the City would be a significant advantage to the City. Mayor Pena was concerned about ADA requirements. Tom Kirk, 78-1 50 Calle Cadiz, Executive Director for Salton Sea Authority, advised that he has spoken to someone in Washington D.C. who says they're not required to meet ADA requirements unless they provide programs and services to the general public or have employees that require such standards, which they don't in either case at this time. He advised that they're considering options in other communities as well. Council Member Sniff felt it would be a significant advantage for them to have use of the City's meeting facilities. Mr. Kirk advised that they generally hold their public meetings at lID, but meet elsewhere occasionally and having this facility available would be an advantage. Council Member Henderson agreed that it would be nice for them to have access to the City's facilities, but noted that they would have to meet the requirements of the City's Facility Use Policy. She supported the proposal and felt that it could benefit The Village. In response to Mayor Pena, Doug Yavanian, 51-351 Avenida Bermudas, President of La auinta Chamber of Commerce, advised that the Chamber Board supports this proposal and that it may be necessary to do some remodeling and to bring in another storage facility to accommodate the needs of SSA. The Chamber gets a lot of traffic at their Village office and it's a key facility for the Mainstreet Marketplace events, which they are considering expanding. They're also looking to expand their Small Business Resource Center. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Kirk advised that they have two full- time staff members at the present time, himself and an assistant. He didn't believe they would ever be a very large agency because he prefers using contract help and consultants whenever possible. They do expect to have a part-time scientist joining them within a few months. Council Member Adolph advised that he supports the proposal and feels it may result in national publicity for the City. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 A I * City Council Minutes 10 February 3, 1 998 Mr. Yavanian noted that some have been concerned that the Chamber plans to leave The Village, but advised that that is not their intent. They're simply trying to accommodate the SSA and help them to locate in La Quinta. In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Kirk advised that they are currently located in the County building across from the Larson Justice Center in lndio. He noted that the Chamber's lease comes up for renewal in six months and asked if the costs associated with remodeling and retrofitting could be amortized over I Y2 years instead of that six-month period. Council Member Sniff didn't feel it would be a major issue, noting that there's not much chance that the lease wouldn't be renewed. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff*Perkins to approve the request of the Salton Sea Authority to sublease space at the Chamber Village office at no cost. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-18. 6. CONSIDERATION OF LIBRARY OPERATIONS PURSUANT TO THE MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING. Mr. Weiss, Assistant City Manager, advised that the Memorandum of Understanding MOU) for enhanced library services that has been approved by. both the County and City, includes provisions for the City to review proposals for operation and location of the facility. In order to move forward with the MOU, a resolution rescinding the City's previous notice of intent to withdraw should be adopted. In addition, the Council should select a City Library Committee to work as a liaison with the County. He also suggested that the Council discuss criteria for relocating the facility or they may defer that action to the newly-formed committee. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that rescinding the resolution does not preclude the Council from adopting another one in the future. RESOLUTION NO.98-05 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, RESCINDING A RESOLUTION OF NOTICE OF INTENT TO WITHDRAW FROM THE COUNTY LIBRARY SYSTEM. It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No.98- 05 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1City Council Minutes 11 February 3, 1998 A brief discussion ensued regarding the formation of the City Library Committee with Council concurring on a five-member committee consisting of one staff member, two Council Members, and two members of the community, including Rob Atkins of the Friends of the La Quinta Library. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to form a City Library Committee composed of one staff member, two Council Members, and two members from the community, including Robert Atkins. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE Order NO.96-19. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins that the representatives from the City Council on the City Library Committee be Terry Henderson and Don Adolph and that Robert Atkins and Robert Wright be appointed as representatives from The Friends of the La Quinta Library and for the City Manager to name the staff member. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-20. Council Member Perkins spoke regarding the potential for the library being open at night and felt the committee should take that into consideration when selecting possible sites. He didn't feel the Wal-Mart Shopping Center would be a good evening location and felt transportation and a well-lit parking lot were important. He suggested the old Thrifty Drugstore in the Vons Shopping Center. MOTION It was moved by Mayor Pena and Council Member Adolph to refer the site of the relocation of the library to the City Library Committee. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-21. Council Member Henders6n felt the committee should meet as soon as 7. CONSIDERATION OF MID-YEAR BUDGET REPORT FOR FISCAL YEAR 1997198. Mr. Falconer, Finance Director, presented the Mid-Year Budget Report, advising that the revenues are expected to exceed the budgeted amount by $1 2 million and the expenditures are estimated to be $500,000 less than the budgeted amount, resulting in a net of approximately $1.7 million. The Infrastructure Fund revenue has exceeded its budget and there are no changes expected in the Redevelopment Agency Tax Increment Funds that would necessitate a loan from the General Fund. He advised that staff is recommending an additional appropriation of $88,600 to this year*s budget for the line items outlined in the staff report. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 I I City Council Minutes 12 February 3, 1 998 In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Falconer advised that a large part of the miscellaneous revenue increase is due to the $191 000 recovered from the ITM loss. Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that most of the projected increases in revenue are tied to one-time revenues, but most of the other revenues are consistent with budgeted amounts. Council Member Henderson felt the report is a good indication to the community of what direction the City is going and the leadership that*s been shown. Council commended staff on doing a great job. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the new appropriations as outlined in Attachment No.1 of the staff report, totaling $88,600 from the General Fund. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-22. MOTION- It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to receive and file the Mid-Year Budget Report. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 98-23. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED FEBRUARY 3,1998. 2. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ALLOWING A STREET CLOSURE PERMIT FOR THE MAINSTREET MARKETPLACE EVENTS PLANNED IN 1998 ON CALLE. ESTADO BETWEEN DESERT CLUB DRIVE AND AVENIDA BERMUDAS PURSUANT TO CONDITIONS FOR TEMPORARY USE PERMIT 97-145. APPLICANT: LA QUINTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE. 3. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ALLOWING A STREET CLOSURE PERMIT FOR THE I-A QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION EVENT ON MARCH 19-22, 1998 AT THE FRANCES HACK PARK PURSUANT TO CONDITIONS FOR TEMPORARY USE PERMIT 97-153. APPLICANT: LA QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION. 4. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO VACATE A PORTION OF CALLE SINALOA AND AVENIDA MORALES, STREET VACATION NO.98-036. 5. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION OF INTENT TO VACATE A PORTION OF AVENIDA OBREGON, STREET VACATION NO.98-037. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 City Council Minutes 13 February 3, 1998 MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended with Item Nos. 2, 3, 4, and 5 being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 98-06, 98-07, 98-08, and 98-09, respectively. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.98-24. STUDY SESSION None REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS C. V. Regional Airport Authority Council Member Henderson advised that she has been appointed Chair of the Authority and that they will be reviewing their Mission Statement and looking for input from the City Councils with regard to the future of the Authority. SunLine Transit Agency/SunLine Services Group Council Member Perkins commented on the painted advertising for Sun City on one of the SunLine buses. He thought it looked terrible and questioned whether the City should be involved in advertising developments. Mayor Pen a advised that the Board has discussed this issue and that SunLine will most likely pull away from doing it in the future. Council Member Henderson advised that she has asked for clarification as to why cigarette advertising is allowed at the bus shelters. All other reports were noted and filed. DEPARTMENT REPORTS None MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS* ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING ENTRANCE INTO CITY HALL. Council Member Sniff commented on the need for some type of awning at the entrance to City Hall to protect people from inclement weather when entering. Council concurred. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 I I City Council Minutes 14 February 3, 1998 2. DISCUSSION REGARDING MEDIANS IN AREA OF WASHINGTON STREET/HIGHWAY 111. Council Member Adolph commented on how the Highway 111 median is getting chipped off as motorists make left turns into the westbound lanes from Washington Street. He has asked staff to contact Caltrans and understands that they*re going to put some type of reflectorized material on it. Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting. Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session to and until the hour of 7:00 p.m. CLOSED SESSION Mayor Pena abstained from participating in Item No.1 as he has done consistently in the past. 1. 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 southwest corner of Highway 111 and Adams Street. Property Owner/Negotiator: Chris Clarke. Council reconvened with no decision being made which requires reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government Code Brown Act). 7:00 P.M. PRESENTATIONS The Mayor and Council Members presented Art Awards to the following students of Adams Elementary School whose artwork has been displayed at City Hall: Whitney Altenburn Adam Freeman Matthew Miller Brittany Boiko John Freeman Amber Naumann Rebekah Brattrud Veronica Gonzalez Sara Painter Jessica Camacho Gina Guillen John-David Pomales Ashley Chavez Sarah Hannon Chelsey Reynolds Amanda Dunlop Daniele Knickbocker David Ross Paulina Ferro Kristin Land Danny Ruiz Craig Flath Anessa Loya BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1City Council Minutes 1 5 February 3, 1 998 PUBLIC COMMENT Janiel Esmeralda, 51-377 Avenida Carranza, spoke regarding the low-income housing units being built in the Cove by C. V. Housing Coalition, advising that she understood ihey have 80 lots and that the City is planning to buy 50 additional units, over a period of 25 years, for rehabilitation. She was concerned about the impact these homes will have on the neighborhood and noted that some homeowners have already sold their properties. She asked the City to allow some investigation as to the negative impact to surrounding properties, as outlined in the Permit Streamlining Act, and stated that she didn't feel it's right for an area to be selected as part of a social housing experiment without a public hearing. Chris Stuiber, 51-495 Avenida Carranza, stated that his property value has dropped $20,000 since construction of six of these homes began near his house. Three of his neighbors have moved out of the City and he plans to do the same, noting that many of the residents are upset with the City for not holding a public hearing before allowing these homes to be built. Darin Hefner, 51-385 Avenida Ramirez, advised that his property value has dropped $15,000 to $20,000 since these homes started going in and he felt the surrounding property owners should have been given an opportunity to give their input before the homes were allowed. Ronald Jordan, 51-370 Avenida Carranza, stated that he's lived there for 20 years and is leaving La Quinta because the City is allowing several of these homes to be built around his property. Mayor Pena stated that he became aware of this issue during his campaign, but advised that the City is not involved, in any way, with subsidizing these homes. Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that it's not a City nor Redevelopment Agency project. The homes are being built on single-family lots in the same manner that anyone has the right to do and there's nothing in the City ordinances to prevent it. She advised that a public hearing is not required prior to issuing a building permit for a single-family home and noted that Council, as a whole, wasn't aware of this until after the lots had been purchased and construction began. Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the Building Department has required those houses that are back to back, to have different elevations and setbacks. Mayor Pena offered to meet with the residents to discuss this issue, noting that the Council is not necessarily in agreement with these homes. They are concerned about BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 I I City Council Minutes 16 February 3, 1 998 property values too, and will do everything legally possible to insure that the City's standards are maintained. Council Member Sniff suggested getting a report from staff on the number of permits that have been pulled and the location of the properties and Mr. Genovese advised that there are 30 active permits. Council Member Sniff wished to have Council informed when something of this nature is taking place. Donna McLaughlin, 51-290 Avenida Carranza, questioned why the homes aren't being spread throughout the Cove. Council Member Adolph asked if the City's compatibility standards would apply when a group of homes are built, noting that the issue was to protect the values of surrounding properties. Ms. Honeywell advised that staff could look at the zoning, but wasn't sure that compatibility is the issue. Mr. Genovese advised that the Building Department has been treating the permits similar to what would be required in a subdivision in North La Quinta and stated that he wasn't sure all 30 permits were issued at the same time. Council Member Sniff suggested the residents leave their names and phone numbers with staff for further contact. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Genovese advised that the City has issued 450-600 building permits over the last year. Ms. Esmeralda stated that the builder is willing to swap the lot next door to Mr. Jordon for one of the other 80 lots, but was told that it would create a lot of paper work and she asked the City to help work it out to keep Mr. Jordan from moving. Mr. Hefner asked if the construction could be stopped for a few weeks to get this issue resolved before the slabs are poured. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1City Council Minutes 17 February 3, 1998 PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28640- FOR SUBDIVISION OF 22.97 ACRES INTO 70 RESIDENTIAL LOTS AND OTHER AMENITY LOTS ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE SOUTHWEST PORTION OF RANCHO LA QUINTA. APPLICANT: T. D. DESERT DEVELOPMENT. Ms. di Iorio, Planning Manager, advised that the applicant has requested to subdivide 22.9 acres into 70 single-family and other common lots within Rancho La Quinta on the east side of Washington Street and south of Avenue 48. The proposal is part of Phase II of the Specific Plan for The Grove and will require a Specific Plan Amendment to allow for lot widths less than 60 feet. She advised that several tracts have been previously approved and recorded under this Specific Plan and that there are 449 approved units with 255 single- family and 30 casita" units built. The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval of the tract map on January 1 3, 1 998. Staff recommended that the tentative tract be approved subject to the conditions. In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. di Iorio advised that the lots with 25-foot frontages are flag lots that meet the minimum lot size requirements. Council Member Adolph asked about street parking near the flag lots and Ms. di Iorio advised that the street is 32 feet wide and that parking will be allowed only on one side of the street. Keith Christiansen, of Watson & Christiansen Engineering for T. D. Desert Development, advised that they are in agreement with all of the conditions. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. There being no one wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED. C6uncil Member Perkins advised that he was concerned about the parking, but would wait until the project comes back for review. RESOLUTION NO.98-10 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, GRANTING APPROVAL OF TENTATIVE TRACT 28640 TO ALLOW A 70-LOT, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION AND MISCELLANEOUS AMENITY LOTS ON APPROXIMATELY 22.97 ACRES WATSON & CHRISTIANSEN ENGINEERING RANCHO LA QUINTA). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.98- 10 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1 j I City Council Minutes 18 February 3, 1 998 2. TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28719 FOR CREATION OF 58 SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL LOTS AND MISCELLANEOUS LOTS ON LAND PREVIOUSLY SUBDIVIDED BY TRACT 24890-2 AND TRACT 24889 ON PROPERTY LOCATED IN THE OAK TREE WEST SPECIFIC PLAN. APPLICANT: KSL LAND CORPORATION. Ms. di Iorio, Planning Manager, advised that this is a request to subdivide approximately 1 5 acres into 58 residential and miscellaneous lots located in the center of the Citrus Country Club in an area previously divided f6r 52 duplex units. The lots have been rough-graded and curbs, gutters, and infrastructure have been installed. The lots vary in size from 7,425 to 12,81 5 sq. ft. with minimum lot widths of 55 feet. The Specific Plan is proposed to be amended to permit lot widths less than 60 feet. The Planning Commission, on January 1 3, 1 998, voted to recommend approval of the tract subject to conditions. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the storm drain goes into the golf course, In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. di Iorio advised that the streets will be 36 feet wide. Chevis Hosea, 55-920 PGA Boulevard, Vice President of Commercial Development for KSL, advised that they are using the duplex design since the infrastructure is already in place, but the lots will have detached framework. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. Bob Trapp, 4100 MacArthur Boulevard, Suite 200, Newport Beach, of CPH, advised that they posted bonds when the original project was approved and asked that their bonds and subdivision agreement be exonerated or reduced accordingly when KSL prepares their map and posts their bonds. They expect td complete their remaining improvements by the time this tract map is recorded. Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, confirmed that this portion was part of a larger phase and advised that this tract map will have its own subdivision improvement agreement and bonding requirements. The subdivision agreement for the original project will have to be brought back for revision to reduce the current bonds, but no additional conditions are required in this regard for this tract. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Honeywell advised that the process for separating the two tracts shouldn't be a problem. BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02 ^"1City Council Minutes 19 February 3, 1 998 There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED. RESOLUTION NO.98-li A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28719 TO ALLOW A 58- LOT, SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL SUBDIVISION ON 15.6 + ACRES WITHIN THE CITRUS COUNTRY CLUB KSL LAND CORPORATION). It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to ad6pt Resolution No.98- 11 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adjourn. Res1*ctfuIly submitted, Clerk City of La Quinta, California BIB] 03-03-1998-U01 02:33:15PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 02-U02 03-U02 1998-U02