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1999 04 06 CC Minutesd_Y LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES APRIL 6, 1999 Regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order at the hour of 2:00 p.m. by Mayor Pena, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. PRESENT: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena ABSENT: None pUBLIC COMMENT None Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency and to Closed Session to and until the hour of 3:00 p.m. CLOSED SESSION 1. Evaluation of Council-appointed position City Clerk, pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.6. 3:00 P.M. Council reconvened with no decision being made in Closed Session which requires reporting pursuant to Section 54957.1 of the Government Code Brown Act). PUBLIC COMMENT Audrey Ostrowsky, P.C. Box 351, questioned why the City Manager hasn't replied to her written request to meet with him, and why her letter of March 30 that she requested to be placed on the agenda has not been agendized. She felt there's a lack of organization in the discussions that affect the design of the roads, parking, and financial expenses in the downtown area, and felt it's unfair for the City to ask the small property owners to pay for these improvements while providing yearly funding for non-profit organizations. Unless the City takes action to financially support the landowners in developing their land, she will encourage people to not support the City's plan until there's some cooperation on development plans for the area. * * * * ** * * * * Lucia Moran, P.O. Box 1305, advised that the Greater Coachella Valley Soap Box Derby has been changed to a one-day event to be held on April 1 0, and that out of the BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 2 April 6, 1999 46 participants, 16 are from La Quinta. Due to the elimination of the masters division, the City will be receiving a refund of $300. She thanked the City for its support, and invited the City Council to attend the opening ceremony between 9:00 and 10:00 a.m. She then reviewed a list of volunteers and sponsors of the event. Council expressed appreciation to Ms. Moran for her involvement in the event. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Council Member Perkins asked that Consent Calendar Item No. 6 be moved to Business Session Item No.11. APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council Minutes of March 16, 1999, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. ANNOUNCEMENTS None PRESENTATIONS None WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE None CONSENT CALENDAR 1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED APRIL 6, 1999. 2. APPROVAL OF THE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY. 3. ACCEPTANCE OF SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENTS FOR PARCEL 28650, LA QUINTA GOLF PROPERTIES. 4. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL FOR A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION AGREEMENT FOR PARCEL 29164, LA QUINTA GOLF PROPERTIES. RESOLUTION NO.99-47) BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 3 April 6, 1999 5. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION DIRECTING THE CITY ENGINEER TO PREPARE THE PRELIMINARY ENGINEER?S REPORT FOR LANDSCAPE AND LIGHTING ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-1 FOR FISCAL YEAR 1999/2000. RESOLUTION NO.99-48) 6. SEE BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO.11. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended and amended with Item Nos. 4 and 5 being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 99-47 and 99-48 respectively. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-33. BUSINESS SESSION 1. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST BY TRUMAN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL TO SPONSOR TEACHERS TO ATTEND THE MCCALLUM THEATRE INSTITUTE. Ms. Horvitz, Community Services Director, advised that the request for funding was brought to the Council's attention at the March 16 Council meeting. The McCaIIum Theatre has offered to designate Truman Elementary School as a focus school and give them a discount on the training program if more than two teachers from that school attend the institute. Rosita Shamis, 78-955 Del Monte Court, of the Cultural Arts Commission, advised that the commission has voted unanimously to support this program. She further advised that the School District, which has received $20,000 or $30,000 in grant funds toward the program, has designated $4,000 for teachers of Truman Elementary School to attend the program, and is asking the City to match that amount to send a total of eight teachers. She noted that this would be a one-time request, and that the $1,000 the Council has already approved for the program can be applied to the $4,000 amount. In addition, the McCallum Theatre has discounted the cost for each teacher from $1 000 to approximately $800, which will further reduce the amount needed. A reception will be held at the McCallum Theatre on April 12 at 6:15 p.m. to present this program, and she invited the Council to attend. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Horvitz advised that the previously- approved $1 000 grant has not been sent because the McCallum Theatre has not submitted their formal request for the funds, which was allocated for the institute, but not specifically designated for Truman Elementary School. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 4 April 6, 1999 Council Member Henderson felt the Council has already addressed this issue by allocating $1,000 for the program last year during the budget hearings. Council Member Perkins felt it's an interesting program, and didn't have a problem supporting it. He liked the fact that it comes back to the young people of the community, which he felt should be involved in the culture of the community. Being a focus school will give Truman Elementary School some prestige and perhaps set an example for the future. Council Member Adolph agreed, and felt it's a minimal fee to promote a major undertaking for the arts and culture in our schools. Mayor Pena noted that with the fee reduction and the amount that's already been allocated, an additional appropriation of approximately $1,000 would cover the costs. Kajsa Thurensen Frary, Director of Education for the McCallum Theatre, advised that they were only recently made aware of the $1,000 allocation, which she confirmed could be applied toward the eight spaces reserved for Truman Elementary School. There were nine teachers from Desert Sands Unified School District that attended the program last year, and this year the School District wants to send 1 8. The participation of eight teachers from Truman Elementary School will make it a focus school. In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Frary advised that the teachers will receive continuing education credit for attending the institute. Council Member Sniff felt an additional $1,500 would cover the costs. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to provide $2,500 to the McCallum Theatre Institute, including the original allocation of $1 000, in matching funds and utilizing the Special Projects Contingency Fund and the school grant fund. Mayor Pena asked that the school report back on the success of the program within six months of it getting started. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-34. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 5 April 6, 1999 2. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST BY THE CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION TO COMMISSION AN ART PIECE FOR ADAMS PARK. Ms. Horvitz, Community Services Director, advised that at the last meeting of the Cultural Arts Commission, they requested that an art piece be commissioned for the Adams Park. However, due to the discussions that took place during the recent joint study session with Council, the Commission is asking for direction on whether or not to proceed with the project. Robert Tyler, 44-215 Villeta Drive, commented on the high use of the park, and stated that he wasn?t opposed to art in public places, but felt restrooms are needed more than artwork. He realized the difference in funding for the two issues, but urged Council to consider reopening the issue of restrooms at Adams Park. Council Member Sniff suggested that the request for an art piece at Adams Park be denied, and that the commission be directed to focus their interest toward the Civic Center Campus. He agreed with Mr. Tyler that restrooms are needed in the park. Mayor Pena suggested tabling the issue instead of denying it. Council Member Henderson agreed, and felt there was an agreement at the joint meeting not to move forward with this. She also agreed with the need for restrooms in the park. Council Member Perkins wished to see the art piece issue referred back to the commission, rather than tabling it. Council Member Adolph agreed to either table the issue or refer it back to the commission. However, he felt if an art piece is ever placed in the park that it should be functional. As for restrooms, he noted that the homeowners in the area were against having any when Council previously addressed the issue. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to table the request by the Cultural Arts Commission to commission an art piece for the Adams Park. Mayor Pena agreed that the restroom issue needs to be addressed again, possibly during the budget cycle. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 6 April 6, 1 999 In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that once this issue is tabled, it can be brought back by the Council or the Commission can request that the Council bring it back. Council Member Perkins advised that he would not support the motion because he felt the issue should be referred back to the Commission instead of tabling it. Motion carried with Council Member Perkins voting NO. MINUTE ORDER NO. 99-35. 3. CONSIDERATION OF AIRLINE SERVICES COMMITTEE REQUEST FOR FUNDING. Mr. Weiss, Assistant City Manager, advised that the Airline Services Committee is requesting that the City budget $20,000 for promotion of the valley to airline services, noting that this is a request that the City has supported since 1 993. He advised that the funding amount is determined by a formula based on the Transient Occupancy Tax TOT) received by each City. In response to Council Member Adolph, Nancy Doria, P.O. Box 1 31 90, Palm Desert, Director of Airline Development for Palm Springs Desert Resorts Airline Services Committee, advised that the international airport designation was allowed because of flights from Vancouver, which began in December. To date they have not received any further inquiries from other international destinations. Council Member Sniff advised that he looks beyond Canada when thinking of international, and asked what they can do to encourage more European tourism here in the valley. Ms. Doria advised that the CVB does have strong marketing efforts in Europe, and that the major airlines service the valley internationally through connecting flights in cities such as Dallas, Denver, and Phoenix. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Doria advised that Cathedral City's allocation is low because their TOT revenue is low, as opposed to the La Quinta Hotel, which produces a lot of revenue. Council Member Sniff supported the request for funding. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 7 April 6, 1999 Council Member Henderson noted that the CVB is considering some changes to the Airline Services Committee in the future. She felt the program has been successful and is needed, and added that there's potential for some good news in the future. Ms. Doria noted that most of the funds raised by the committee have been used to retain American Airlines' services on a year-round basis, but for the first time this year they're going to use those funds $150,000) plus $175,000 of their own funds to produce an advertising campaign for the Palm Springs Desert Resorts area. What the committee must look at now is at what point do they say when" to the airlines. The risk of not continuing the work is that there would be no focus to continue developing the airline services, and there's a lot of competition out there competing for the airlines. The question now is whether or not to enter into similar agreements with other airlines and continue building on the current services. In response to Council Member Sniff, Ms. Doria advised that the advertising campaign is a joint effort between the Airline Services Committee, CVB, and American Airlines. It consists of such things as distributing print material to several destinations across the United States, CD-ROMS to approximately 28,000 travel agencies, magazine ads, etc. Council Member Adolph noted that the La Quinta Hotel totally supports this effort. Council Member Perkins supported the request, and felt it's important to look at the future of the entire valley. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to direct staff to include $20,000 in funding for the Airline Services Committee in the 1 999/2000 fiscal year budget. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-36. 4. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF TEMPORARY USE PERMIT 99-198 FOR A CIRCUS TO BE HELD APRIL 12, 1999, ON PROPERTY LOCATED ON THE SOUTH SIDE OF CALLE TAMPICO, BETWEEN AVENIDA BERMUDAS AND DESERT CLUB DRIVE. APPLICANT: LA QUINTA LIONS CLUB. Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the La Quinta Lions Club is requesting financial support for a circus to be held south of Calle Tampico between Avenida Bermudas and Desert Club Drive. The Temporary Use Permit would normally be approved by staff, but has been submitted to BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 8 April 6, 1999 Council in conjunction with this funding request. The financial support request is for approximately $1,900 plus the use of portable restrooms allocated in the City's Franchise Agreement with Waste Management of the Desert. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Herman advised that Condition No.4 regarding the City's right to attach additional conditions is included in case the applicant should wish to make changes later on that need to be mitigated in some manner. He further advised that temporary signage is not covered under this permit. In response to Mayor Pena, Charles Knight, of La Quinta Lions Club, advised that the permission from the property owner was submitted with their application along with the required insurance rider. They hope to have 700 attendees at each performance. Admission at the gate is $8 for adults and $6 for children pre-sale tickets are $1 less. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman advised that the applicant is responsible for soil stabilization after the event. Mr. Knight stated that the La Quinta Arts Foundation's contract for the Arts Festival did not include a requirement for soil stabilization. Council Member Sniff supported approval of the request for an amount not to exceed $1 900, with the funds to come from the Special Projects Contingency Fund. In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the City does not do soil stabilization. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Herman advised that the application was reviewed by the Sheriff's Department, and that they made no requirement for police services. Mr. Knight advised that the circus will provide their own security. Attendance will most likely be lower than what was previously expected because of the change in location at the last minute. Mr. Knight asked that the bond requirement be set aside because they wouldn't have the funds until after the event, and Mr. Herman advised that it would be covered under the financial support request if approved. Mr. Knight stated that the lot would be watered down before the event, but understood that it had to be sprayed with chemicals after the event. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 9 April 6, 1999 Mayor Pena didn't have a problem helping with the fees. Council Member Henderson felt soil stabilization is important for dust control, and noted that in the past, a chemical could be sprayed from a water truck. She supported the funding request in an amount not to exceed $1,900, and maybe look at options for doing the soil stabilization to minimize the costs. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to provide financial support to the La Quinta Lions Club Circus in an amount not to exceed $1,900 from the Special Projects Contingency Fund or any other appropriate fund. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-37. 5. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL RESOURCES CONSULTANT QUALIFICATIONS. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA. Ms. di lono, Planning Manager, advised that the revised qualifications for archaeological regulations has been reviewed by the Historical Preservation Commission, and they have recommended approval. RESOLUTION NO.99-49 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA. CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING ARCHAEOLOGICAL CONSULTANT QUALIFICATIONS. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 99-49 as submitted. Council Member Henderson felt the Historical Preservation Commission was pleased to have the opportunity to review this again. Motion carried unanimously. 6. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF PROJECT PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS, AND ESTIMATES FOR VARIOUS CITY HALL IMPROVEMENTS, PROJECT 99-03. Mr. Hartung, Building & Safety Director, advised that Project 99-03 consists of building offices in the administration wing, installing glazed openings in private offices, and replacing flower beds in the courtyard with pavers. In addition, staff has submitted for Council?s consideration, three different designs for an BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 10 April 6, 1999 art base for the recently-purchased art piece. The base can be constructed with funds from the Art in Public Places Fund. Council Member Perkins supported the requests. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Hartung advised that all three bases were fine with the artist, but he preferred the separate column base, and he felt the courtyard location would be fine, but believed the art piece would get more movement in the area just outside the courtyard. Council Member Adolph noted that the problem with that is security. With cultural activities taking place in the courtyard, he felt it would make a good location. Council Member Henderson has a problem envisioning the art piece in the courtyard because of its busy' atmosphere, and wished to see other locations explored. She understood the security concerns, but noted that obelisks are being placed all over the City, which is also a security problem, and that the artwork is purchased for the community to view. She felt the art piece should be in an open space with an open green area beneath it. She didn't have a problem with the other items in the project. Council Member Sniff supported the office expansion improvements, but had a major problem with locating the art piece in the courtyard. He recommended placing it in the grass area near the entrance on the south side of the Civic Center between the sidewalk and building. In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Hartung advised that the window replacements in the private offices will allow for natural ventilation. Mayor Pena understood that the fixed windows were installed originally to control dust and temperature conditions, and asked if any problems are anticipated with dust, to which Mr. Hartung responded no. Mayor Pena was concerned about windows being left open at night. Mr. Hartung advised that they would have to be closed to avoid having the motion detectors set off. Mayor Pena agreed with locating the art piece on the south lawn. Council Member Adolph wished to see the art piece displayed where it can be showed off and not hidden. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 11 April 6, 1999 In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Hartung advised that approximately 26 windows would be replaced. As for the air conditioning, the offices would continue to be individually controlled by the individual sensors in each office. Mr. Genovese, City Manager, noted that the proposed window replacement came up as an option in response to Council's concern about the lower windows allowing visibility into the offices. Mayor Pen a and Council Member Perkins both had concerns about the windows, and after a brief discussion, Council concurred on having the window treatment issue brought back separately. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve project plans, specifications, and estimates, deleting the window treatments, for Project 99-03, Various City Hall Improvements, and locating the 1999 art purchase on the City Hall south lawn, and authorizing an expenditure of not to exceed $4,000 from the Art in Public Places Fund to construct a suitable base for the art piece, and further authorizing staff to advertise the project and receive bids. In response to Council Member Adolph, Council Member Sniff clarified that the suitable" base would be as determined suitable by the artist. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-38. Council Member Sniff suggested that staff bring back the window treatment issue with options including windows that open and windows with obscured glass. Council concurred on taking up Item No.10 at this time. 10. CONSIDERATION OF THE COACHELLA VALLEY MOUNTAINS CONSERVANCY REQUEST TO SUPPORT THE DESIGNATION OF THE SANTA ROSA MOUNTAINS AS A NATIONAL MONUMENT. Mr. Weiss, Assistant City Manager, advised that the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy is requesting the City's support of legislation that would designate the Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains as a National Monument. The Conservancy feels that the designation may enhance the Bureau of Land Management's BLM) and Conservancy's ability to secure Federal acquisition funds in the future. It may also strengthen the valley's appeal for ecotourism. He advised that the cities of Rancho Mirage and Indian Wells have voted to BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 12 April 6, 1999 support the designation, and that the issue is pending in the cities of Cathedral City and Palm Desert. Palm Springs has not agendized the issue. Issues and concerns that have surfaced to date include: potential effect on municipal or undeveloped lands adjacent to the mountains; potential for future requests for additional buffers from the National Monument; potential for adverse impact to ecotourism due to limitations placed on trails or future public access to mountains; and potential loss of local control. The proposed legislation attempts to mitigate these concerns by including language in 4(b) and 4?c) that discourages establishment of buffers and states that the designation will not affect Indian reservations, State, or privately-owned lands or interest in lands. Katie Barrows, 45-480 Portola Avenue, Palm Desert, of the Coachella Valley Mountains Conservancy, distributed a map showing the boundaries of the proposed National Monument, and advised that Cathedral City has now voted to support the legislation. The proposed designation will only affect Federal lands BLM and National Forest), and will not affect private or municipally- owned lands. Except for the potential for mineral withdrawal of the BLM lands, it's reasonable to say that there will be no change from the National Scenic Area status. Their reasons for pursuing this designation are to gain recognition of the value of our natural resources, and to increase chances for funding, which is needed to acquire lands because of the potential Multi-Species Habitat Plan and some of the conflicts due to the Peninsula Big Horn Sheep issue. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Barrows advised that the Coral Mountain area is included because it's part of the Santa Rosa Mountains. The boundary line is essentially the same as the National Scenic area boundary, and follows the toe of the slope from the San Jacinto Mountains behind Palm Springs southward to the County line. There's a small portion within the Santa Rosa Mountains Wilderness Area. In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Barrows advised that any changes made after the designation is approved would have to go back through Congress. The Conservancy is currently looking for input to find out if there's support for the legislation and what the concerns might be. They've already incorporated language regarding buffers to address some concerns of the Building Industry Association, and will add language to clarify that local government land is excluded. In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. Barrows advised that it's not their intention to jeopardize or prohibit the trails from being used. Currently there are some concerns about trail access impacting the Big Horn Sheep, and that law would override this legislation. It will not interfere with existing ownerships of property, and land acquisitions will only take place with willing sellers. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_Y City Council Minutes 1 3 April 6, 1 999 In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Barrows advised that there are only three or four National Monuments on BLM land in the United States. Council Member Henderson didn't have a problem with the proposed legislation. Council Member Sniff didn't see any significant downside, and felt there's a lot of positives. It will help provide funding, which is essential if the Conservancy is to move forward in a meaningful way, and it's compatible to La Quinta's commitment to preserve the mountains surrounding the City. He recommended support of the legislation. Council Member Adolph asked if it would result in better maintenance of the trail system, to which Ms. Barrows responded that they hope so and would be pushing for that. Mayor Pena felt the City has been extremely responsible in conserving its hillsides, and believed this legislation would benefit and strengthen what the City already has, noting that there's a lot of concern about maintaining access to the mountains. In response to Mr. Genovese, City Manager, Ms. Barrows confirmed that there would be no Federally-mandated approval processes to develop within the boundaries, and that any restrictions would only apply to Federal lands. RESOLUTION NO.99-50 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, SUPPORTING DESIGNATION OF THE SANTA ROSA AND SAN JACINTO MOUNTAINS AS A NATIONAL MONUMENT. It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.99-50 as submitted. In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. Barrows confirmed that language would be added to exclude cities, the county, and other local jurisdictions. Motion carried unanimously. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 14 April 6, 1999 7. CONSIDERATION OF AWARD OF CONTRACT FOR CONSTRUCTION OF PROJECT 98-05, CITY ENTRANCE MONUMENTS, TO THE LOWEST RESPONSIBLE BIDDER. Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that the City only received one bid, in the amount of $426,265, for the entrance monument signs on Highway 111, noting that the engineer's estimate for the project was $226,000. Staff recommended that all bids be rejected, and that the project be rebid with a more active outreach program. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Pena to reject the bid for construction of Project 98-05, City Entrance Monuments, and authorize staff to rebid the project and establish a new bid opening date of May 7, 1 999. Council Member Henderson supported the motion, but questioned being able to expect a substantially lower bid, and felt perhaps the size and design may need to be scaled back. Council Member Perkins believed the engineering staff has been very close on estimates in the past. Mr. Vogt suggested rebidding the project with add-alternates to allow some flexibility in awarding portions should the bids come in high. Council concurred on including that in the motion. Council Member Adolph believed the monument is overpriced, and asked what portion of the cost is for the sign itself. Mr. Freeland, Senior Engineer, advised that the contractor bid $75,000 for the precast sign, waterfall, and pond at each site. The lighting and electrical was bid separately. RESTATED MOTION It was moved by Council Members PerkinsiPena to reject the bid for construction of Project 98-05, City Entrance Monuments, and authorize staff to rebid the project, with add-alternates, and establish a new bid opening date of May 7, 1999. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-39. 8. CONSIDERATION OF A Y2K COMMITTEE. Mr. Falconer, Finance Director, advised that this report is due to a request from City Council regarding possible formation of an official Y2K Committee. All efforts to date have been handled by staff by looking at possible impacts of Y2K BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 15 April 6, 1999 on the internal operations of the City, and with external efforts handled by the Building & Safety Department, in conjunction with other Coachella Valley cities. He advised that staff has conducted a survey of what other cities are doing, and found that some are developing a Y2K hotline, preparing an infomercial, or conducting town hall meetings. Council Member Henderson recommended forming an ad hoc committee consisting of staff and one or two members of the community. Council Member Perkins suggested the Investment Advisory Board lAB) work with it as well. Mayor Pena suggested it also include the City's computer consultants. Council Member Sniff felt it should include representatives from the utility companies, Sheriff's and Fire Departments, and the local bank and markets. He noted that it's uncertain what may or may not happen, and he didn't feel it would hurt to monitor the situation. Mayor Pena suggested contacting JFK Hospital, which has a very active Y2K program, as well as the local ambulance service. Mr. Falconer advised that a survey was mailed to several of these companies and those responding have stated that they have complied with Y2K as best they can. Additional surveys and follow up letters will be sent to those who haven?t responded, including JFK, the ambulance services, and the School Districts. Council Member Henderson stated that she felt everything will be fine, but noted that there are a lot of people out there that are very uncomfortable with this, and when they ask what the City is doing, they can be referred to the ad hoc committee. She suggested limiting the committee to a staff member, two members of the community, and an lID representative. Council Member Adolph felt confident with what staff is doing, but believed if Council wishes to have an ad hoc committee take a look at it, that they should stay focused on moving forward and getting things done before the end of the year, noting that one quarter of the year is already gone. Council Member Henderson viewed the ad hoc committee as more of a body to gather and distribute information. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 1 6 April 6, 1 999 Council Member Perkins noted that the City already has a committee of financial experts working with staff on this, and he felt creating an ad hoc committee would take more of the Finance Director's time and dilute what the City is trying to do. He stated that he would not support formation of an ad hoc committee, and felt it should be left as it is. Mayor Pena suggested that the lAB have this as a standing item on their agenda, and then people from the community can be referred to them. Mr. Falconer felt that in order for the lAB to look at this issue in more depth, they would probably look to Council for more authority due to the fact that some of them feel that this goes beyond their purview. Council Member Henderson noted that the Community Services Commission has spent as much time discussing this issue as the lAB. The concerns that she's hearing are from people who spend a lot of time on the computer, and their concerns go beyond finances. She noted that Jim Cathcart has a lot of information on this subject and is very interested in disbursing it out to the public. She continued to support having an ad hoc committee. Council Member Sniff wasn't sure the lAB is qualified to handle this issue. Mayor Pena felt if the purpose is to get people involved, then it wouldn't prevent any member of the community from bringing their issue to the lAB meetings. Council Member Sniff felt the committee should be an information exchange effort, as well as provide some element of coordination. Mayor Pena suggested the lAB be given the authority to form a sub-committee to work on this if they wish. Council Member Henderson pointed out that ad hoc committees have been formed in the past to utilize people from the community with specific interests. Council Member Perkins felt staff is doing an excellent job on this, and continued to be against forming an ad hoc committee. Mr. Falconer advised that staff's efforts include an emergency response track, as well as the financial aspect. Council Member Sniff preferred leaving it in the hands of staff rather than assigning it to a commission or board. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 17 April 6, 1999 Council Member Henderson stated that she hasn't seen a desire by the lAB to take this issue on. Council concurred on leaving this issue in the hands of staff. Mayor Pena encouraged people in the community who are concerned about this issue and have information to share, to get in contact with the Finance Director. Council Member Perkins suggested holding one or two advertised public meetings on the Y2K issue to let everyone know what the City is doing. Council concurred and directed staff to schedule and advertise a public meeting to be held as soon as possible at 7:00 p.m. in the evening. 9. CONSIDERATION OF THE CITY OF INDIO'S REQUEST FOR CO-SPONSORSHIP OF THE EAST VALLEY INDEPENDENCE DAY FESTIVAL." Ms. Coyle, Management Analyst, advised that lndio is asking La Quinta to co- sponsor the Third Annual East Valley Independence Day Festival with a donation of $5,000. La Quinta would be included in all advertising. She noted that the City of Palm Desert has also submitted a request for $5,000 for their July 4th event. The City has previously provided $1,000 per year for the fireworks display in Palm Desert, with the exception of 1 998 which was funded totally by Palm Desert. Council Member Perkins advised that he could not support lndio's request because they allow the sale of safe and sane" fireworks to the public. Council concurred. Council Member Henderson suggested the reason for denying the request be explained in the letter. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Henderson to deny the request by the City of lndio for co-sponsorship of the East Valley Independence Day Festival. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-40. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 18 April 6, 1999 11. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF THE CITY MASCOT, GAMBY THE QUAIL, TO APPEAR AT THE GREATER COACHELLA VALLEY SOAP BOX DERBY AND THE LA QUINTA LIBRARY GRAND RE-OPENING. There were no changes to the staff report as submitted to the City Council by the City Manager's Office and on file in the City Clerk's Office. In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, explained that this item was agendized because an actual calendar of events has been previously designated. Council concurred on authorizing the City Manager's Office to approve any further appearances. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Sniff to approve the appearance by Gamby the Quail at the Greater Coachella Valley Soap Box Derby and the La Quinta Library Grand Re-Opening, and direct staff to refer all future requests to the City Manager's Office. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-41. STUDY SESSION None REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS All reports were noted and filed. DEPARTMENT REPORTS None MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING A HOME IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM. Council Member Sniff wished to have staff look into the possibility of establishing a home improvement program where funds would be made available to homeowners with serious house repair needs, such as roofing, fences, and painting, with a lien placed on the property until the amount is repaid. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 1 9 April 6, 1999 Council concurred on asking staff to look at a home improvement program and report back to Council during the budget hearings. 2. DISCUSSION REGARDING A PLAQUE DESIGNATING THE ARCHITECT AND BUILDER OF THE CIVIC CENTER FACILITY. Council Member Sniff felt that in the interest of history, a plaque should be installed at the Civic Center facility designating the architect and builder. There was a brief discussion with Council concurring on having this brought back for consideration. 3. DISCUSSION REGARDING TRAFFIC CONTROL IN THE CIVIC CENTER SOUTH PARKING LOT. Council Member Sniff suggested stop signs be installed in the south parking lot of the Civic Center, particularly where people pull out of the parking stalls heading west, because of the speed of vehicles approaching off of Avenida La Fonda. He further suggested that the entrance signs be changed to read, Employee and Visitor Parking Lot." Council Member Perkins suggested that caution signs may do more good than stop signs, but felt it's fine the way it is. Mayor Pena and Council Member Henderson agreed that caution signs would be better than stop signs. Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting. Council reconvened and recessed to and until 7:00 p.m. 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT Lisa Stanfill, 81-224 Iris, lndio, spoke regarding the Rancho La Quinta and Mira Flores projects not being watered down on weekends, and resulting in the blow sand causing BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 20 April 6, 1999 zero visibility on Jefferson Street, which could be a liability problem. It's also blowing into the housing developments across the street. Bob Miller, 79-255 Horizon Palms Circle, questioned why drainage from the Rancho Ocotillo and Cactus Flower projects goes from Fred Waring Drive towards Miles Avenue, while the La Quinta Palms project drains northerly onto Fred Waring Drive or easterly onto Dune Palms Road. He also questioned why the Sonrisa project is being allowed to modify the topography in such a way as to take away the view from the residents of La Quinta Palms. They already have an 11 Y2-foot-high wall next to the Rancho Ocotillo project, and don't want the same thing or something higher across their southern boundary. They played the role of good neighbor with Rancho Ocotillo and ended up with an 11 Y2-foot-high wall, and he questioned how the City could ask them to do it again and end up with a 14-foot-high wall on the south side. Joe Burkhardt, 79-287 South Sunset Ridge Drive, questioned why all the building pads can't be level with each other. Bill Rushworth, 44-240 East Sundown Crest, commented on the amount of review the Sonrisa project has received and still has a problem, and questioned why the City has abandoned its longstanding policy to protect the mountain view for everyone. Jim Humberd, 79-409 Horizon Palms Circle, understood that when the previous developer owned the Sonrisa site, the pad elevations weren't going to be more than three feet higher than the La Quinta Palms development, but the pads are higher than that and the dirt is well above the height of the five-foot wall. He advised that he never received a public hearing notice as one of the surrounding property owners even though he asked to be notified if any changes were made so that he could get involved. He felt the residents of the La Quinta Palms development are being ignored by the City and weren't considered when the plans for the Sonrisa development were approved. Gilbert Stokes, 79-323 Horizon Palms Circle, considered the view from their property a natural resource that is being taken away, and urged the Council to do something about it. Donna Serna, 79-397 Horizon Palms Circle, stated that she lives directly across the street from the Sonrisa project, and although they knew it would eventually be developed, they were unaware of the heights of the pad elevations. Her main concern was the wall between the two developments on the south side, noting that there's no guarantee that the wall will be high enough to screen the windows of the houses across the street, and she urged the Council's help. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 21 April 6, 1999 Nancy Kever, 79-401 Horizon Palms Circle, questioned whether or not the Planning Commission and staff even looked to see what effect the Sonrisa project would have on the La Quinta Palms established community. She also questioned why their view is being taken away, why they didn?t receive a hearing notice, how pad-to-pad terminology is derived, and who decides to use the highest pad in La Quinta Palms as a point to determine the pads for new construction. She asked who is looking out for their interest, and wished to have assurance from Council that the wall on the south/southeast side will be high enough, to keep them from looking into someone else's yard or windows, and not be made of wrought-iron. They also have a severe problem with dust coming from the Sonrisa project. Mayor Pei\a advised the audience that Council understands their concerns, and will forward them to staff. He stated that the City would be in contact with them, and hopefully have some answers by the next meeting. PRESENTATIONS None PUBLIC HEARINGS None. STUDY SESSION 1. JOINT MEETING WITH THE PLANNING COMMISSION AND ARCHITECTURAL AND LANDSCAPE REVIEW COMMITTEE. Planning Commission There was a brief discussion on dust control, wherein Mr. Cunningham stated that turning the water on helps stop the phone calls, even if it doesn't stop the dust. Mayor Pena suggested the following issues for discussion: compatibility of pad elevations; condominium development standards; more use of conditional use permits; affordable housing; and time shares. Council Member Sniff commented on the importance of the Planning Commission not allowing dialogue with the audience to continue once they have closed a public hearing. Mr. Tyler felt if someone in the audience has something to contribute, that it's in everyone's best interest to allow it. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 22 April 6, 1 999 Council Member Henderson wished to see the Planning Commission ease up on the time limits placed on developers giving presentations at the public hearings. She didn't recall them ever being held to a three-minute limit. Mr. Tyler stated that they're not held to three minutes, but the audience does complain sometimes about not getting as much time to speak as the developers get. Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, recommended that it be made clear at the beginning of the public hearing that this is the applicant's opportunity to make their presentation and would not be held to the time limit as they are not there as a member of the public. She noted that some projects are more complex than others and require additional time to make their presentations. Council Member Henderson asked where homeowners associations fall in the level of importance, noting that homeowner association approval is not required before City approval. Ms. Honeywell advised that the City does not have authority to enforce the CC&R's of homeowners associations. Mr. Tyler suggested putting something in the ordinance to require homeowner associations' approval prior to City approval. Mr. Cunningham felt that would give homeowner associations too much power. Council Member Perkins wished to look at the apartments-condominiums issue as well as compatibility such as two-story buildings, blocking of views, size, zoning, etc. He felt the applicant is entitled to more than three minutes to make a presentation, and that the time allowed is a judgement call upon the part of the Chair. As for homeowner associations, he felt some consideration should be given to them and that the City needs to take a look at how it deals with them because some of their requirementsllimitations spill over into the City, and because they represent a large amount of the City's population. Council Member Adolph wished to have the Planning Commission take a look at some time constraints on conditions of approval where a temporary wall is allowed in place of a permanent wall, such as the wall at PGA West that has fallen down two or three times. Mayor Pena wished to have the boiler plate conditions of approval distinguished from the ones specific to the project so more concentration can be placed on specific ones. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 23 April 6, 1999 The Council and Planning Commission concurred, and proceeded to review the following issues: ComDatibilitv In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Honeywell advised that the only way the City can address the issue of price compatibility is through density allowances, noting that the wide density ranges can be tightened up in some of the zones. Mr. Robbins understood that the City is not required to allow the maximum number of units designated for a particular zone. Ms. Honeywell noted that the City does not have set development standards for apartments, and that density could be limited by requiring more open space for recreational use. Mr. Tyler felt it would give the City more latitude if ranges of density were put in the General Plan instead of particular numbers. Ms. Honeywell advised that one way to handle it is to have a statement in the zoning code that provides the City discretion in deciding what density is appropriate. Apartments and condominiums can be made conditional uses, which would take into account compatibility with surrounding uses. Additionally, development standards are needed to deal with condominium projects that look like single-family homes. Council Member Perkins asked if special permits can be required for two-story homes so the City can look at such things as view impact on surrounding properties. Ms. Honeywell advised that a policy can be adopted to limit the percentage of two-story homes in a development. Mayor Pena questioned people's entitlement to a view just because they had it prior to surrounding development taking place. Council Member Adolph felt perhaps the zoning ordinance needs to be brought back for revision, and the compatibility issue looked at in a broader sense. Ms. Honeywell felt perhaps it's time to reconsider inclusionary zoning so that a small percentage of every project is set aside for low-mod housing, which would spread it throughout the City. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 24 April 6, 1999 Mr. Cunningham felt it may be time to modify the compatibility ordinance, noting that it was adopted during the recession as an emergency ordinance. He felt it served its purpose at the time, but may have run its course. Council Member Perkins felt compatibility should be based on lot and house size, not same house styles. A brief discussion ensued wherein a consensus was reached to consider making apartments and condominiums conditional uses, and to develop some development standards for those uses such as open space requirements and two-story building allowances. Council Member Henderson pointed out that the Housing Element requires some amount of zoning for high-density projects, and that it was difficult for the City to get State approval for 1 6 units per acre because they viewed high density as 30 units per acre. Mayor Pena advised that staff would bring these compatibility issues back to the Planning Commission for review. Affordable Housina Ms. Honeywell advised that Redevelopment Law requires that 1 5% of all new units to be low-mod units. The only other allowance is for substantially- rehabilitated units. Council Member Henderson pointed out that the Mira Flores project is all low- mod units. Mayor Pena felt the problem is that the City has to subsidize the low-mod units, which places it in the position of competing with private development. He felt the City needs to go through the League of California Cities to try to get the law changed. Economic Development Mr. Abels was concerned about commercial projects going in and later becoming vacant buildings. He supported the idea of annexing the area toward Thermal, and felt that a public golf course would be a great draw for the City. He also felt that a movie theater along Highway 111 would help to bring in more commercial development in that area. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 25 April 6, 1999 Mr. Tyler agreed that movie theaters are a great draw, but wasn't sure how successful one would be in La Quinta given the number of theaters being built in the valley. Council Member Perkins felt that that is a decision the developers must make, and that the City shouldn't get involved with it financially. In response to Mr. Tyler, Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the consultant contract for the General Plan update will go to Council on April 20. The Village There was some discussion about the difficulty in drawing commercial development in The Village, and what the City is currently doing in regard to public improvements there. It was noted that the City can't force development just to appease the property owners, and a suggestion was made to have high- density residential, which could help draw some commercial. Architectural LandscaDe & Review Committee Mr. Cunningham felt it may be necessary to recruit someone from outside the City to fill the vacant position on the committee. Council Member Sniff felt it's a viable solution for consideration, or else the committee should be disbanded. Mayor Pena supported going outside the City. Mr. Cunningham felt having three members as opposed to two provides the committee with more credibility, especially in dealing with landscape reviews. Mr. Robbins felt the committee is beneficial because the Planning Commission doesn't have to spend as much time on some of the architectural and landscape issues. Council Member Sniff felt it would provide some balance having an architect on the committee. There was a consensus to bring the ordinance back for revision to allow committee members from outside the City. BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02 d_YCity Council Minutes 26 April 6, 1999 There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members HendersoniSniff to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. Re ctfu?Iy submitted, ifiA, City C?erk City of La Quinta California BIB] 04-20-1999-U01 02:00:46PM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 04-U02 06-U02 1999-U02