HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026 04 07 CC MinutesCITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
TUESDAY, APRIL 7, 2026
CALL TO ORDER
A regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at 3:00 p.m. by Mayor
Evans.
PRESENT: Councilmembers Fitzpatrick, McGarrey, Pena, Sanchez, and Mayor Evans
ABSENT: None
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA — None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Councilmember Sanchez said he will recuse himself from participating in the discussion
and vote on Consent Calendar Item No. 7 due to a potential conflict of interest stemming
from a reasonable probability of future income from The Pacific Communities corporation
who is a negotiating party identified in the Agreement Governing Subdivision and Use of
Real Property for this project, and requested that it be pulled for a separate vote.
Council concurred.
CLOSED SESSION
1. CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATORS PURSUANT TO GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54957.6; CITY DESIGNATED REPRESENTATIVE: CARLA
TRIPLETT, HUMAN RESOURCES DEPUTY DIRECTOR; AND EMPLOYEE
ORGANIZATION: LA QUINTA CITY EMPLOYEES' ASSOCIATION
2. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION;
PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (d) OF GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54956.9;
NAME OF CASE: LANGDON V. CITY OF LA QUINTA (RIVERSIDE COUNTY
SUP. CT. CASE NO. CVPS2509382)
3. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION;
PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (d) OF GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54956.9;
CASES NAMES AND NUMBERS — MULTIPLE (listed below, all in U.S.
Bankruptcy Court, District of Delaware)
CASE NAME:
CASE NUMBER
SilverRock Development Company, LLC
24-11647
SilverRock Lifestyle Residences, LLC
24-11648
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APRIL 7, 2026
SilverRock Lodging, LLC
24-11650
SilverRock Luxury Residences, LLC
24-11652
SilverRock Phase I, LLC
24-11654
RGC PA 789, LLC
24-11657
4. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION;
PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (d) OF GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54956.9;
NAME OF CASE: CONSTRUCTION LOAN SERVICES II, LLC V. SILVERROCK
DEVELOPMENT COMPANY, ET AL. (U.S. District Court, District of Delaware,
CASE NO. 25-1342-CFC)
5. CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL — EXISTING LITIGATION;
PURSUANT TO PARAGRAPH (1) OF SUBDIVISION (d) OF GOVERNMENT
CODE SECTION 54956.9;
NAME OF CASE: CITY OF LA QUINTA V. SILVERROCK DEVELOPMENT
COMPANY, ET AL. (RIVERSIDE COUNTY SUP. CT. CASE NO. CVPS2404750)
COUNCIL RECESSED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE MEETING AND
MOVED INTO CLOSED SESSION AT 3:03 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE OPEN SESSION PORTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL MEETING AT 4:24 P.M. WITH ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
REPORT ON ACTION(S) TAKEN IN CLOSED SESSION:
City Attorney Ihrke reported the following pursuant to Government Code section 54957.1
(Brown Act):
• CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 1 — no reportable action.
• CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 2 — no reportable action.
• CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 3 — as previously reported on November 4, 2025,
and other prior reports from closed session, as well as reported in the Economic
Development Subsidy Report related to the Development Agreement and other
agreements and documents for the real property acquisition of the SilverRock Resort
project, formerly Talus, by Turnbridge Equities (TBE) from the former SilverRock
Development Company and its affiliates (debtors), Council approved an Amendment to
the Debtor -In -Possession (DIP) Credit Facility Loan Agreement (DIP Loan Amendment),
in the form that was attached to the U.S. Bankruptcy Court Order approving the same
back in October 2025.
For purposes of the action taken by Council this evening, and in furtherance of the
resolution of the bankruptcy case as part of the "wind -down" procedures approved by the
bankruptcy court, the following items were included in the DIP Loan Amendment:
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Page 2 of 15 APRIL 7, 2026
(1) A "wind -down maturity date" to repay the DIP Loan Amendment to the City, which
was set before the parties intended and had authorization from the bankruptcy
court to engage in mediation.
(2) Provisions related to "Poppy Bank backstop indemnity" whereby the City agreed
to backfill the Poppy Bank collateral only for up to $3.25 million dollars.
(3) To "wind -down" the bankruptcy case, the City approved up to $2 million dollars to
be used by the debtors, of which $1 million dollars was previously authorized.
Mr. Ihrke noted additional updates about the debtors' bankruptcy case will be provided
during Item No. 1 under the Announcements, Presentations, and Written
Communications section of tonight's meeting — the bankruptcy case "wind -down" phase
is proceeding, and the debtors have proposed a Combined Disclosure Statement and
Chapter 11 Liquidation Plan seeking certain accommodations from the City, none of
which would increase the previously approved dollar amount by the Council as part of the
DIP Loan Amendment.
Mr. Ihrke said with the background provided above, Council took the following actions on
Closed Session Item No. 3 tonight:
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Pena to
authorize an extension of the "wind -down maturity date" as set forth in the DIP Loan
Amendment until June 15, 2026; and authorize the City Manager to execute any
necessary or proper amendments or other documents related thereto, after review by
Special Counsel and the City Attorney. Motion passed unanimously.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/McGarrey
to authorize the Poppy Bank backstop indemnity, in an amount not to exceed the
previously approved $3.25 million dollars, to be applied to other eligible secured creditors
with secured interest on the Poppy Bank collateral, as determined by the U.S. Bankruptcy
Court to have lien priority over Poppy Bank, pursuant to the draft Chapter 11 Liquidation
Plan proposed by the debtors; and authorize the City Manager to execute any necessary
or proper amendments or other documents related thereto, after review by Special
Counsel and the City Attorney. Motion passed unanimously.
Mr. Ihrke explained the draft Chapter 11 Liquidation Plan proposed by the debtors was
approved by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court during the hearing held earlier today, April 7,
2026, a summary of which will be provided under Item No. 1 of the Announcements,
Presentations, and Written Communications section of tonight's agenda
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/McGarrey
to authorize the additional $1 million dollars, for a total amount not to exceed the originally
approved $2 million dollars, to be used by the debtors, as needed, for the "wind -down
funding commitment" as set forth in the DIP Loan Amendment; and authorize the City
Manager to execute any necessary or proper amendments or other documents related
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thereto, after review by Special Counsel and the City Attorney. Motion passed
unanimously.
• CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 4 — no reportable action.
• CLOSED SESSION ITEM NO. 5 — no reportable action.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
Councilmember McGarrey led the audience in the Pledge of Allegiance.
PUBLIC COMMENT ON MATTERS NOT ON THE AGENDA
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Jeff Fishbein, Chair of the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce,
Coldwell Banker Realtor, and La Quinta resident — said there were two upcoming ribbon
cutting events — Hudson Martin PC law office (4/16/26 at 4:30 p.m.) and Corazo Credit
Union (4/30/26 at 6 p.m.), and the planning for the annual Chamber Mixer is currently in
the works, contemplated for May 2026; provided an update on upcoming events, including
the State of Education (5/1/26), Installation Dinner (6/9/26), new chapter pop-up events
throughout the summer as a series of lunch clubs and summer social hours expected to
be launched in June 2026.
ANNOUNCEMENTS, PRESENTATIONS, AND WRITTEN COMMUNICATIONS
1. SILVERROCK (FORMERLY TALUS) DEVELOPMENT PROJECT — STATUS UPDATE
City Attorney Ihrke said on August 5, 2024, SilverRock Development Company LLC and
its affiliates (debtors), collectively referred to as "SDC," voluntarily petitioned for Chapter
11 bankruptcy in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in Delaware; and per Council's direction and
approval, the City retained Special Counsel who has continuously been working with the
City Manager and City Attorney throughout these proceedings. A milestone for the case
was accomplished with the December 9, 2025, sale of the debtors' 130+/- acre property,
formerly known as the Talus project, to Turnbridge Equities (TBE) pursuant to the
bankruptcy court's order authorizing the sale ("Sale Order"). Prior Announcements
regarding the bankruptcy case are available on the City's website at
www.Iaquintaca.gov/tal' .
As previously announced, the bankruptcy court granted the debtors motion for an Order
Authorizing a Mediation to try and reach an agreement among the key secured creditors
as to the allocation and distribution of the net proceeds available from the sale of the
debtors' property (Sale Proceeds). The mediation had been ongoing for several weeks
but reached an impasse and ended without a resolution. As such, the bankruptcy case
has resumed with the "wind -down" process in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court where the matter
of resolving the allocation and distribution of the Sale Proceeds to creditors will now be
considered.
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Mr. Ihrke said, in connection with the "wind -down" process of the bankruptcy case,
referenced earlier in the report out to Closed Session Item No. 3 above, the U.S.
Bankruptcy Court held a hearing this morning, April 7, 2026, and granted the Debtors'
Motion for an Order to: (a) approve a Preliminary Combined Disclosure Statement and
Chapter 11 Liquidation Plan (Plan) on an Interim Basis for Solicitation Purposes Only;
(b) approve Solicitation and Voting Procedures for Creditors; and (c) schedule a
combined hearing for decisions to be made on the Plan next month (Debtors' Solicitation
Motion).
Mr. Ihrke explained, as the name implies, the Debtors' Solicitation Motion is a procedural
step under bankruptcy law, teeing up the Plan for creditors to approve or object to the
proposed amounts and methodology of liquidating, or allocating, the Sale Proceeds. The
current schedule of the Debtors' Solicitation Motion has a hearing, on the proposed Plan
and determining allocations by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court, scheduled for late May 2026,
and it is expected that the bankruptcy court will be able to implement the Plan shortly
thereafter, as necessary.
The City Manager, Special Counsel, and the City Attorney's office will keep the Council
informed as to progress and the status of the case.
2. COACHELLA VALLEY MUSIC AND ARTS FESTIVALS — 2026 COACHELLA
AND STAGECOACH — EVENT PLAN AND EXPECTATIONS UPDATE BY
COMMUNITY SERVICES MANAGER JIM CURTIS WITH THE CITY OF INDIO
PRESENTER: Community Services Manager Curtis with the City of Indio provided a brief
presentation on event planning, traffic, and general expectations of the upcoming 2026
Coachella and Stagecoach music festivals, particularly the additional toll booths and
traffic lanes which will effectively examine and clear cars for entrance into the
campgrounds and ensure no traffic congestions are caused due to cars waiting in queue.
Council discussed plans for DJ performances in campgrounds; time gates will open on
Thursday morning; experience of security crew; water availability for people waiting in
cars; entry locations and number of lanes; and means for residents to exit the area to go
to work.
3. X-PARK OPERATIONS AND PROGRAM UPDATE BY DIRECTOR OF
OPERATIONS MARK LAUE AND OPERATIONS MANAGER VICTOR
DELGADO WITH ACTION PARK ALLIANCE
PRESENTERS: Director of Operations Laue with Action Park Alliance (APA) provided an
update on the La Quinta X-Park operations, programs, membership, and future plans.
Council discussed the amazing programming and success of the APA team; use of
California's Expanded Learning Opportunities Program (ELO-P) funds in collaboration
with school districts serving La Quinta; future needs; behavior of participants; and role of
former Councilmember Lee Osborne in initiating the park.
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PUBLIC SPEAKER: Don Stephens and son Brad Stevens, La Quinta — support the X-
Park; it's a daily part of his son's life for 4 years; praised the facility, the staff, the safety,
and the opportunity to meet world class athletes.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES DATED MARCH 3, 2026
2. APPROVE COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES DATED MARCH 17, 2026
3. ADOPT ORDINANCE NO. 631 ON SECOND READING AMENDING SECTIONS
3.25.020, 3.25.030, AND 3.25.070 OF CHAPTER 3.25 OF THE LA QUINTA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTALS
4. AUTHORIZE OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR ON SENIOR CODE COMPLIANCE
OFFICER TO ATTEND THE CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF CODE
ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS 2ND ANNUAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT IN ELK
GROVE, CALIFORNIA, MAY 14-15, 2026
5. APPROVE AMENDMENT NO. 5 TO REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH
COACHELLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS FOR AVENUE 48
ARTS AND MUSIC LINE PROJECT NO. 2020-08
6. APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR CONTRACT SERVICES WITH KEYSER
MARSTON ASSOCIATES, INC AND THE NATELSON DALE GROUP, INC FOR
ON -CALL ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CONSULTING SERVICES
7. »> Pulled for a separate vote by Councilmember Sanchez
APPROVE AGREEMENT GOVERNING SUBDIVISION AND USE OF REAL
PROPERTY BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY, INDIAN WELLS HOSPITALITY
GROUP, LLC, AND PACIFIC WEST COMMUNITIES TO SUBDIVIDE
APPROXIMATELY SIX -ACRE VACANT PARCEL, ASSESSOR PARCEL
NUMBER 600-020-057, LOCATED SOUTH OF HIGHWAY 111 AND WEST OF
COSTCO DRIVE; CEQA: THE PROJECT IS EXEMPT FROM
ENVIRONMENTAL REVIEW PURSUANT TO SECTION 15601(b)(3) OF THE
CALIFORNIA ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY ACT, COMMON SENSE
EXEMPTION
8. RECEIVE AND FILE GENERAL PLAN AND HOUSING ELEMENT ANNUAL
PROGRESS REPORTS FOR CALENDAR YEAR 2025
9. RECEIVE AND FILE SECON QUARTER FISCAL YEAR 2025/26 TREASURY
REPORTS FOR OCTOBER, NOVEMBER, AND DECEMBER 2025
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10. RECEIVE AND FILE REVENUE AND EXPENDITURE REPORT DATED
JANUARY 31, 2026
11. APPROVE DEMAND REGISTERS DATED MARCH 6, 13, AND 20, 2026
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/McGarrey
to approve Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1-6 and 8-11, as presented, with Item No. 3
adopting Ordinance No. 631. Motion passed unanimously.
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 7 — pulled for a separate vote
COUNCILMEMBER SANCHEZ RECUSED HIMSELF AND SAID HE WILL
ABSTAIN FROM PARTICIPATING IN THE DISCUSSION AND VOTE ON
CONSENT CALENDAR ITEM NO. 7 DUE TO A POTENTIAL CONFLICT OF
INTEREST STEMMING FROM A REASONABLE PROBABILITY OF FUTURE
INCOME FROM THE PACIFIC COMMUNITIES CORPORATION WHO IS A
NEGOTIATING PARTY IDENTIFIED IN THE AGREEMENT GOVERNING
SUBDIVISION AND USE OF REAL PROPERTY FOR THIS PROJECT, AS
NOTED DURING CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA ABOVE
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/McGarrey
to approve Consent Calendar Item No. 7 as presented. Motion passed: ayes — 4,
noes — 0, abstain — 1 (Sanchez), absent — 0.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. INTRODUCE FOR FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER
2.06 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO CITY BOARDS,
COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES
Deputy City Clerk Rodriguez presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk's
Office.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Sanchez/Pena to take
up Ordinance No. 632 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion passed
unanimously.
City Clerk Radeva read the following title of Ordinance No. 632 into the record:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 2.06 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATED TO BOARDS, COMMISSIONS, AND COMMITTEES FOR
CLARIFYING, CONFORMING, AND CORRECTIVE REVISIONS
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Sanchez/McGarrey
to introduce at first reading Ordinance No. 632 amending Chapter 2.06 of the La Quinta
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Municipal Code related City Boards, Commissions, and Committees for clarifying,
conforming, and corrective revisions. Motion passed unanimously.
2. INTRODUCE FOR FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE TO: (1) REPEAL AND
AMEND TITLE 10 ANIMALS OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE;
(2) ADOPT BY REFERENCE TITLE 6 OF THE RIVERSIDE COUNTY CODE OF
ORDINANCES RELATED TO ANIMALS WITH CERTAIN AMENDMENTS, AND
(3) AMEND SECTION 11.44.020 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATED TO PEACE OFFICERS ENFORCEMENT POWERS
Senior Code Compliance Officer Woods presented the staff report, which is on file in the
Clerk's Office.
Staff announced that the City will host a free spay and neuter clinic on April 16, 2026, at
the La Quinta Wellness Center, organized by Riverside County Department of Animal
Services; and that staff is working with the County and other organizations, like Animal
Samaritans, to schedule additional clinics offering animal vaccinations, which will be
forthcoming in the near future.
Council discussed that no incidences of venomous snakes or exotic animal removals
have occurred in the City; clarification that Section 6.08.180 does not prohibit organized
and permitted adoption events; fines to follow the County's schedule which is similar to
the City's except the County allows for corrective measures; continued prohibition of
livestock and barnyard poultry; reassessment of signs and sign locations at trails; staff
communication with the Conservation Commission regarding the wildlife cameras along
trails; incidents of residents feeding coyotes; definition of guard dogs; backyard breeding
continues to be prohibited in La Quinta; and means to warn hikers about rattle snakes.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Sanchez/Fitzpatrick
to take up Ordinance No. 633 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion
passed unanimously.
City Clerk Radeva read the following title of Ordinance No. 633 into the record:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, (1) REPEALING AND AMENDING TITLE 10 ANIMALS OF THE LA
QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE, (2) ADOPTING BY REFERENCE TITLE 6 OF THE
RIVERSIDE COUNTY CODE OF ORDINANCES WITH AMENDMENTS
RELATING TO ANIMALS, AND (3) AMENDING SECTION 11.44.020 OF THE LA
QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATED TO ENFORCEMENT POWERS OF
PEACE OFFICERS AND CITY PERSONNEL
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Sanchez/McGarrey
to introduce at first reading Ordinance No. 633 to (1) delete and replace in its entirety
Title 10 of the La Quinta Municipal Code related to Animals, (2) adopt by reference Title 6
of the Riverside County Code of Ordinances with certain amendments, and (3) amend
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Section 11.44.020 of the La Quinta Municipal Code related to Enforcement powers of
peace officers and city personnel. Motion passed unanimously
3. APPROVE JUNIOR INSPIRATION AND YOUTH ACHIEVEMENT AWARD
NOMINEE
Community Services Deputy Director Calderon introduced Senior Management Analyst
Calderon who presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk's Office.
Council discussed the nominee, Ethan Miller, was 1 of 4 high school students to receive
a tennis scholarship from the BNP Paribas Open held in March 2026 at the Tennis
Gardens in Indian Wells; and commended him for his outstanding accolades and
achievements. Staff noted that a presentation will be scheduled for the May 5, 2026,
regular meeting for Council to recognize Mr. Miller and present him with a Certificate of
Recognition as a recipient of this award.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers McGarrey/Sanchez
to award the Junior Inspiration and Youth Achievement Award to Ethan Miller. Motion
passed unanimously.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSS PROJECTS TO BE INCLUDED IN FISCAL YEAR 2026/27 THROUGH
2030/31 CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM
Public Works Director McKinney introduced Administrative Technician Escarrega who
presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk's Office.
Council discussed details of some projects and clarifications; use of Asset Management
software; grading and paving schedule; investments in the community by residents,
shoppers, business owners; locations of minor water pooling during storms and related
improvements planned; drainage issues on private property; timing of pavement
evaluation by consultants; and an update on the Avenue 50 bridge project currently under
design at Avenue 50.
Council reached a consensus and expressed support for fiscal 2026/27 through 2030/31
Capital Improvement Program as presented, and to allocate additional funding in fiscal
year 2026/27 to completely pay off the Developer Impact Fees (DIF) reimbursements.
2. DISCUSS ADAMS STREET COMPLETE STREETS STUDY AND PROVIDE
DIRECTION ON PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE
Public Works Director McKinney introduced City consultants Todd Tregenza, Project
Manager, and Marco Anderson, Transportation Manager, with GHD, Inc., who presented
the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk's Office.
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PRESENTERS: Mr. Tregenza and Mr. Anderson presented the observations from the
draft study, including forecast/demand modeling, evaluation criteria, bike traffic
conditions, traffic performance, five microsimulation, preliminary designs, and
conclusions; answered Council's questions on specific aspects of the preliminary designs;
and explained next steps including preparing cost -benefit calculations.
Council discussed the cross weaving of bikes and cars approaching the intersection at
Miles Avenue and Adams Street; the proposed roundabout at Bayberry Lane and Victoria
Drive; suggested working with Desert Sands Unified School District to change and
designate a student pick up area; the Avenue 47 and Adams Street intersection being a
good location for a roundabout; consequences to surrounding major arterials of slowing
traffic on Adams Street; testing alternatives with temporary measures; and determining
the character desired for neighborhood versus commercial sections of Adams Street.
Council reached a consensus and directed staff to finalize the presented draft study to
include in preliminary designs a roundabout at Avenue 47 and Adams Street intersection;
a roundabout at the Bayberry Avenue and Victoria Drive intersection needs further study;
support the safe -bike improvements at Black Hawk Way; reasonability of one left -turn
lane on Highway 111 eastbound onto Adams Street, and temporarily remove 1 of the
currently existing 2 left -turn lanes in this location as a test; conduct a speed study on
Adams Street under existing conditions; provide past accident and citation data; and
discuss traffic signal synchronization with the Coachella Valley Association of
Governments (CVAG) to allow simultaneous single left -turn lanes for east and westbound
Highway 111 traffic at Adams Street.
MAYOR EVANS CALLED FOR A BRIEF RECESS AT 7:12 P.M.
MAYOR EVANS RECONVENED THE COUNCIL MEETING AT 7:40 P.M. WITH
ALL MEMBERS PRESENT
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. CONTINUED FROM JANUARY 20, 2026:
ADOPT RESOLUTIONS TO (1) ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE
DECLARATION (ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2024-0002, SCH #
2025050964) AND (2) APPROVE SPECIFIC PLAN 2022-0002; AND (3)
INTRODUCE FOR FIRST READING AN ORDINANCE TO APPROVE ZONE
CHANGE 2024-0002, AND ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 2024-0002
FOR THE HIGHWAY 111 SPECIFIC PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT CODE
PROJECT; CEQA: A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION
(ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 2024-0002, SCH # 2025050964) HAS BEEN
PREPARED FOR THE PROPOSED PROJECT; LOCATION: GENERALLY
NORTH OF AVENUE 48, SOUTH OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY
STORMWATER CHANNEL, EAST OF WASHINGTON STREET AND WEST OF
JEFFERSON STREET
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The following staff and consultant presented the staff report, which is on file in the Clerk's
Office:
• Planning Manager Cheri Flores, City of La Quinta
• Kathryn Slama, Director, Lisa Wise Consulting, Inc. (LWC) — via teleconference
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THAT THE PUBLIC HEARING REMAINED OPEN FROM
THE JANUARY 20, 2026, MEETING
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Charles Jack Tarr (Jack Tarr), Managing General Partner with JTDC,
LLC — on behalf of Washington III, LTD, owner of Washington Park — advocated for less
restrictions, specifically related to auto -oriented uses; recently submitted an application
with the City for an Arco AM/PM convenience store with gas station franchise at the
northeast corner of the Washington Street and Avenue 47 intersection; not opposed to
the conditional use permit (CUP) process for permitting certain uses within the
commercial center; explained the types of uses he believes would work in the few
remaining vacant lots within the center; and supports the City maintaining control of uses
brought to the Highway 111 corridor.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Robert Martinez, Architect, AIA, CASp, CASI with Martinez +
Okamoto Architects, Inc. — spoke on behalf of Washington III, LTD — reiterated Mr. Tarr's
comments above; and noted any new uses will be in compliance with the center's specific
plan architectural guidelines and requirements.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Curtis Barlow, Coldwell Banker Commercial Lyle & Associates —
spoke on behalf of Washington III, LTD — said the developer has had many different uses
proposed for the approximately 5-acre vacant parcel on Avenue 47 and La Quinta Center
Drive, behind Target, including self -storage, car dealerships, hotels, private club for exotic
vehicles garage storage and concierge services, which are not allowed uses under the
proposed code, which leaves very few use alternatives for developing the parcel; and
echoed Mr. Tarr's comments above in support of allowing auto -oriented uses via the
proposed overlay for certain parcels as noted in the staff report.
City Clerk Radeva said WRITTEN PUBLIC COMMENTS were received from Charles
Jack Tarr, Managing General Partner with JTDC, LLC, requesting modifications to the
proposed Specific Plan and Title 9 code revisions to extend the Auto Oriented
Development (AOD) Overlay along Washington and Jefferson Streets subject to a CUP
approval, which were distributed to Council, made public, published on the City's website,
and included in the public record of this meeting.
PUBLIC SPEAKER: Jonathan Linkus, City's consultant and Technical Service Leader
with GHD, Inc. — explained the proposed AOD Overlay was used as an instrument of
limitation providing for control of where auto -oriented uses are allowed or not; the staff
report included options for the AOD Overlay to be adopted as originally proposed back in
January 2026 to only include the areas along the Highway 111, or with the expanded
areas along Washington and Jefferson Streets, as recommended by the Planning
Commission at the February 24, 2026, meeting, which follows the City's adopted General
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Plan hierarchy for major arterial road category as all 3 streets are predominantly auto -
oriented corridors and as such conduits for vehicular movement; and noted the Planning
Commission also discussed the CUP process as an alternative to allow certain uses
anywhere within the Specific Plan area on a case -by -case basis, which would not be ideal
as it does not provide for uniformity.
Council discussed the Washington Park commercial center being one of the few centers
in the city that is pedestrian -oriented, and allowing auto -oriented uses would take away
from the pedestrian -friendly objective of the contemplated Highway 111 Plan.
Mr. Linkus clarified that a lot of the out -parcel pads within this center, included in the AOD
Overlay's proposed expanded area were planned and prepared for uses that could be
auto -oriented based on their size; and said the publicly engaged 2019 Highway 111
Corridor plan focused on improving the pedestrian environment within the Highway 111
commercial centers to achieve an evolution of the current corridor auto -driven character;
and reiterated that both options are before Council for consideration.
Council discussed the types of uses allowed at Washington Park under the current code
and related approval processes; consequences of adopting the Planning Commission's
recommendation to extend the AOD Overlay areas; current interest from auto -oriented
use businesses to develop certain vacant parcels within this center, including the under
review Arco AM/PM franchise application; development takes a long time to complete
(20+ years); the market dictates development timing and desired uses; pros and cons of
extending the AOD Overlay or requiring a CUP and related approval authority; community
support and opposition for prior uses that have been approved for this center, including
the movie theater; the specific plan for this center does not allow two-story buildings; there
not being a clear determination that an auto -concierge business would be precluded
under the proposed Highway 111 Mixed Use (HMU) zone because it is not strictly auto -
oriented; questioned the desirability of auto -based uses in that area; desire to change the
auto character of the Highway 111 corridor to be pedestrian friendly; the need to integrate
multiple Specific Plans so all mutually benefit and ensure consistency throughout; the
new code is intended to require a creative approach for development; market analysis
study of corridor; Council's ability to further narrowly define "auto" use; and pros and cons
of extending the auto -oriented zone.
City Attorney Ihrke explained the flexibility the Council holds under the proposed Specific
Plan and zone change; and explained the City's limited involvement and control of
Covenants, Conditions, and Restrictions (CC&Rs) created by landowners that run with
the land.
MAYOR EVANS DECLARED THE PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED AT 9:08 P.M.
Council discussed requiring a CUP for any auto -related uses if the AOD Overlay is
approved to include the proposed extended areas; the cost and effort expended by
developers to get to the point of requesting CUP approval for a use that the Council may
or may not approve; auto uses outside the current auto zone are counterproductive to
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
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the overall vision for the corridor; rejection of the proposed extended overlay would not
preclude the Arco AM/PM application and related CUP since it would be grandfathered
in, if the CUP application is deemed complete before the new code is adopted and it goes
into effect; frontage design standards; and the option of extending the overlay as
proposed, including lots 01 and 02 of the Washington Park center, and requiring a CUP
for auto -related uses in the entire zone or in just the extended AOD Overlay.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Pena to
adopt Resolution No. 2026-006 adopting a Mitigated Negative Declaration (EA 2024-
0002, SCH # 2025050964) for the Highway 111 Specific Plan and Development Plan
project as presented:
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION (EA 2024-
0002, SCH # 2025050964) FOR HIGHWAY 111 SPECIFIC PLAN AND
DEVELOPMENT PLAN PROJECT
Motion passed unanimously.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Pena to
adopt Resolution No. 2026-007 approving Specific Plan 2022-0002 without the Planning
Commission recommendation to extend the Auto Oriented Development Overlay along
Washington and Jefferson Streets within the Highway 111 Corridor Plan area.
COUNCIL HELD OFF VOTING ON THE MOTION ABOVE BECAUSE THE
FOLLOWING SUBSTITUTE MOTION WAS PRESENTED
SUBSTITUTE MOTION — Councilmember Sanchez made a substitute motion to the
motion listed immediately above to adopt Resolution No. 2026-007 approving Specific
Plan 2022-007 with the Planning Commission recommendation to extend the Auto
Oriented Development Overlay along Washington and Jefferson Streets within the
Highway 111 Corridor Plan area; and require a conditional use permit for any auto -
oriented uses, as listed in proposed Table 9.105.020-5: Permitted Uses in the HMU Zone
and AOD Overlay (page 1,181 of the agenda packet), within the extended Auto Oriented
Development Overlay areas. Motion failed due to the lack of a second.
BACK TO ORIGINAL MOTION LISTED ABOVE:
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Pena to
adopt Resolution 2026-007 approving Specific Plan 2022-0002 without the Planning
Commission recommendation to extend the Auto Oriented Development Overlay along
Washington and Jefferson Streets within the Highway 111 Corridor Plan area.
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A SPECIFIC PLAN TO REPEAL AND REPLACE
EXISTING SPECIFIC PLANS WITHIN THE HIGHWAY 111 CORRIDOR AREA
TO FACILITATE THE HIGHWAY 111 SPECIFIC PLAN AND DEVELOPMENT
CODE
Motion passed unanimously.
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PRESENTER VIA TELECONFERENCE ACCESSIBILITY: Ms. Slama — requested
clarification on whether Council's motion intended to exempt certain auto -oriented uses,
listed in green -lined language to the proposed code revisions on page 1,197 of the
agenda packet, from having to comply with the Building Frontage Regulations.
Council confirmed the proposed green -lined code revisions, listed on page 1,197 of the
agenda packet, are to be included.
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/Pena to
take up Ordinance No. 634 by title and number only and waive further reading, approving
Zone Change 2024-0002 and Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2024-0002 not extending
the Auto Oriented Development Overlay along Washington and Jefferson Streets within
the Highway 111 Corridor Plan area; and adopting the proposed red -lined code revisions
throughout, and the proposed green -lined code revisions exempting certain auto -oriented
uses, as listed on page 1,197 of the agenda packet, from having to comply with the
Building Frontage Regulations. Motion passed unanimously.
City Clerk Radeva read the following title of Ordinance No. 634 into the record:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A ZONE CHANGE TO AMEND THE ZONING MAP
TO MODIFY THE REGIONAL COMMERCIAL, COMMERCIAL PARK, AND
COMMUNITY COMMERCIAL ZONES TO A NEWLY ESTABLISHED HIGHWAY
111 MIXED USE ZONE, AND A ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT TO ADD
CHAPTER 9.105 TO THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE FOR THE HIGHWAY
111 CORRIDOR AREA TO FACILITATE THE HIGHWAY 111 SPECIFIC PLAN
AND DEVELOPMENT CODE AS AMENDED
MOTION — A motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers Fitzpatrick/McGarrey
to introduce at first reading Ordinance No. 634 approving Zone Change 2024-0002 and
Zoning Ordinance Amendment 2024-0002 not extending the Auto Oriented Development
Overlay along Washington and Jefferson Streets within the Highway 111 Corridor Plan
area; and adopting the proposed re -lined code revisions throughout, and the proposed
green -lined code revisions exempting certain auto -oriented uses, as listed on page 1,197
of the agenda packet, from having to comply with the Building Frontage Regulations.
Motion passed unanimously.
DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS — All reports are on file in the City Clerk's Office.
MAYOR'S AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
Mayor Evans reported on her and other Councilmembers' attendance at the Coachella
Valley Rescue Mission's Anniversary Gala; Hispanic Chamber Legislative Breakfast; Old
Town Artisan Studio Gala; Desert Sands Leadership Academy; Coachella Valley Public
Cemetery ribbon cutting; Palm Springs Air Museum Learning Center opening; Principal -
for -the -Day; Alzheimer's Coachella Valley event; luncheon recognizing Kathleen
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
Page 14 of 15 APRIL 7, 2026
O'Regan, Senior Inspiration Award honoree; Palm Springs Walk -of -Fame event for Kim
Waltrip; PGA West Education Fund event; Firebirds Hockey Day; Read With Me Open
House; Indian Wells State -of -the -City; and the City's Easter Eggstravaganza event.
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
La Quinta's representative for 2026, Mayor Evans reported on her participation in the
following organizations' meetings:
• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT SUBCOMMITTEE (Evans & Fitzpatrick)
• PALM SPRINGS AIR MUSEUM EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE
• VISIT GREATER PALM SPRINGS CONVENTION AND VISITORS' BUREAU
La Quinta's representative for 2026, Mayor Pro Tem Fitzpatrick reported on her
participation in the following organizations' meetings:
• COACHELLA VALLEY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT COMMITTEE (Fitzpatrick & Pena)
• CVAG TRANSPORTATION COMMITTEE
La Quinta's representative for 2026, Councilmember McGarrey reported on her
participation in the following organization's meeting:
• LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES — ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY POLICY
COMMITTEE
La Quinta's representative for 2026, Councilmember Pena reported on his participation
in the following organization's meeting:
• SUNLINE TRANSIT AGENCY
La Quinta's representative for 2026, Councilmember Sanchez reported on his
participation in the following organizations' meetings:
• LEAGUE OF CALIFORNIA CITIES PUBLIC SAFETY COMMITTEE
• COACHELLA VALLEY ANIMAL CAMPUS COMMISSION
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, a motion was made and seconded by Councilmembers
McGarrey/Fitzpatrick to adjourn at 10:08 p.m. Motion passed unanimously.
Respectfully submitted,
l/
MONIKA RADEVA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
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