1999 07 20 CC Minutesing -> 10\m LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
JULY20, 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
CLOSED SESSION
1. Evaluation of Council-appointed positions, City Manager and City Clerk,
pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.6.
2. Conference with City's real property negotiator, Mark Weiss, concerning
property located Citywide, and terms of transfer of cable television franchise
relating thereto pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8. Property
OwneriNegotiator: Media One/Time Warner.
Council recessed to Closed Session to and until the hour of 3:00 p.m.
3:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Confirmed
APPROV?? OF MINUTES
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the City
Council Minutes of June 22, 1999, as submitted. Motion carried with Council Member
Adolph ABSTAINING.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council
Minutes of June24, 1999, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the City
Council Minutes of June 29, 1 999, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to approve the City
Council Minutes of July 6, 1999, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Council Member Henderson expressed appreciation for the removal of graffiti from the
art piece at Washington Street and Highway 111.
PRESENTATIONS
Theresa Maggio, Festival Director for the La Quinta Arts Foundation, presented the
1 999 La auinta Arts Festival Poster to the City Council, noting that the arts festival
ranks #3 in the nation. She also advised that 44% of the visitors at the arts festival
were from outside the valley, as were 37% of the Plein Air event visitors.
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
1. LETTERS FROM PGA WEST MEMBERS ASSOCIATION AND PGA WEST
MASTER ASSOCIATION, INC. REGARDING A GOLF CART TUNNEL UNDER
MADISON STREET.
Council concurred on having staff bring back a report on the safety factor of a
golf cart crossing on Madison Street, including the legalities involved, and on
directing staff to send follow-up letters to both homeowners associations.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED JULY 20, 1999.
2. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER?S REPORT DATED MAY 31, 1999.
3. APPROVAL OF OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THE PUBLIC WORKS
DIRECTOR/CITY ENGINEER TO ATTEND THE 1999 INTERNATIONAL PUBLIC
WORKS CONGRESS AND EXPOSITION SPONSORED BY THE AMERICAN
PUBLIC WORKS ASSOCIATION APWA) IN DENVER, COLORADO, SEPTEMBER
19-22, 1999.
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4. APPROVAL OF OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR THREE CODE COMPLIANCE
OFFICERS TO ATTEND A TRAINING CLASS GIVEN BY SOUTHERN
CALIFORNIA ASSOCIATION OF CODE ENFORCEMENT OFFICIALS, INC.
LOCATED IN LONG BEACH, CALIFORNIA, JULY 23-24, 1999.
5. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER TO EXTEND
SUPPLEMENTAL RETIREMENT BENEFITS PROVIDED BY THE PUBLIC AGENCY
RETIREMENT SYSTEM PARS) ON A ONE-TIME BASIS. RESOLUTION NO.
99-90)
6. APPROVAL OF CHANGES TO THE CITY CLERK'S JOB DESCRIPTION AND
SALARY RANGE.
7. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR PARCEL
MAP 29052, LUNDIN DEVELOPMENT. RESOLUTION NO.99-91)
8. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A
FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT
29121, MSG ENTERPRISES, INC. RESOLUTION NO.99-92)
9. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS FOR ACQUISITION OF REAL PROPERTY FOR
TWO RIGHT-OF-WAY PARCELS NECESSARY TO CONSTRUCT PROJECT NO.
98-09, WASHINGTON STREET BRIDGE WIDENING.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the
Consent Calendar as recommended with Item Nos. 5, 7, and 8 being approved
by RESOLUTION NOS. 99-90, 99-91, and 99-92 respectively. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-95.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF THE Fl? AL YEAR 1999/2000 BUDGET
AND ESTABLISH THE CITY'S APPROPRIATIONS LIMIT.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the proposed 1999/2000 Fiscal Year
Budget includes changes as requested by Council on June 22 he distributed a
new Page 62, making a clerical change under community promotion"), and is
similar to last year's budget because it contains a substantial commitment to
infrastructure improvements and a good quality level of service to residents.
Some of the projects included in this year's budget are the widening of
Jefferson Street and Washington Street?
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Council Member Adolph advised that he supported the budget as a whole, and
would vote to approve it, but he was opposed to the allocation for an additional
20 obelisks, which he supported having at parks but not at street corners where
street signs already exist, and the salary compensation for Agency Board
Members. He noted that he voted against a salary increase for Council last year
of approximately 35%, and that he's opposed to the proposed compensation
for Agency members in this year's budget.
Council Member Perkins complimented staff on an excellent budget, and advised
that he supports it as it is.
Council Member Henderson was pleased with the budget, and felt that it was
prepared with a great deal of care and fiscal responsibility. However, she
suggested the possibility of not funding the La Quinta Post this year, stating
that she's not particularly enthralled with the information on that page, and felt
that it's time to consider other means of communicating information to the
community. She felt the Chamber's Gem newsletter has been very informative.
In regard to the obelisks, she stated that she's heard a lot of good remarks
about them, and noted that they are for City identification, not street signs.
Council Member Sniff felt that the budget is excellent, and that it reflects the
City's conservative nature. He wished to see the La Quinta Post eliminated
from the budget. He seldom receives the home-delivered paper, and feels that
it's not doing the job it was intended to do. He echoed Council Member
Henderson's comments regarding the Gem newsletter, and suggested working
toward getting it to cover more material and more frequently. He didn't have
a problem with the obelisk program, and felt they are symbolic identifications
of strategic locations.
Mayor Pena was pleased that the budget is easy to read, and that the City is
maintaining its level of service to the community, including its support of
neighborhood organizations. He commented on the number of upcoming public
improvements, and asked the residents to be patient during the construction.
In regard to the La Quinta Post, he wasn't opposed to eliminatin'. it from the
budget.
Council Member Adolph agreed with eliminating the La Quinta Post from the
budget.
Council Member Perkins had mixed emotions about eliminating it, and wished
to discuss it further at the next Council meeting.
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Council Member Henderson suggested deleting it from the budget, and having
it come back as an item to reconsider.
Council Member Perkins concurred.
Mayor Pena noted that the Council always tries to avoid duplication of efforts,
and that this might be one of those areas.
RESOLUTION NO.99-93
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING THE CITY'S APPROPRIATION LIMIT FOR FISCAL
YEAR 1999/2000 AND APPROVING A BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEAR
199912000.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
99-93 as amended deleting the allocation for the La Quinta Post with the
understanding that the issue will come back at the next Council meeting).
Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONSIDERATION OF CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH THE
LA QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION FOR FISCAL YEAR 199912000.
Ms. Horvitz, Community Services Director, advised that the proposed Contract
Services Agreement is with the La Quinta Arts Foundation, and was considered
by the Council on June 22 as part of the preliminary budget.
Council Member Henderson noted that in Section 6.1 of the Agreement,
Agency" needs to be changed, and she suggested eliminating if requested."
Council concurred.
Council Member Sniff believed the organization provides an immense service to
the City, and felt that the requested funding is appropriate.
Council Member Adolph was pleased to see the reduction in the funding
requests this year from both the Chamber and the Arts Foundation, and stated
that he's fully supportive of their efforts.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the
La Quinta Arts Foundation's funding request of $75,000 for Fiscal Year
1 999/2000 and authorize the Mayor to execute the Contract Services
Agreement. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-96.
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3. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF DESIGN AND LOCATION OF THE BEAR
CREEK CHANNEL ART PIECE AS PROVIDED BY THE LA QUINTA ARTS
FOUNDATION.
Ms. Horvitz, Community Services Director, advised that the La Quinta Arts
Foundation is proposing an art piece for installation along the Bear Creek Bike
Path, and she noted that the Council's previous concerns were taken into
consideration in this design.
Jana Barbier, P.O. Box 777, Education Director of La Quinta Arts Foundation,
presented a model of the proposed art piece consisting of a concrete bear on a
base of tiles opposite a fish trap. She advised that the art piece was designed
by local artists, Terry Hays and Mike Teague, and is intended to give an
historical interpretation of what is in the desert, adding that children will be
used to help design the tiles.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Ms. Barbier advised that the
historical information written on the tiles will be readable from outside the art
piece.
Council Member Sniff felt the proposed design is more appropriate than the
previously-proposed design, and suggested adding shade, water, and seating at
some time in the future.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Barbier advised that the art piece
will be reinforced and built to City Code. Children may want to sit on the rocks,
but it's not likely to appeal to adults, and walking on the base will not have any
effect on it.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Horvitz advised that the art piece
will be located near the bike path at the southwest corner of Avenida
Montezuma and Calle Tecate, and there will be a rest stop nearby with water,
shade, and seating.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Barbier advised that they intend to
have other art pieces along the bike path, but it's not set at this point.
Council Member Adolph wished to see a plan developed for the entire bike path
for everyone to follow so that it will dove-tail together.
Council Member Sniff felt that the Council's intent has always been to have
several rest stops and art pieces along the bike path.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the
design and location of the Bear Creek Channel art piece. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-97.
4. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF CONTROL
OF A CABLE TELEVISION FRANCHISE ORIGINALLY GRANTED TO COLONY
COMMUNICATIONS, INC. TO SUMMIT CABLE SERVICES OF GEORGIA, INC.
Mr. Wilson, Management Analyst, advised that staff has worked with Special
Counsel in negotiating the proposed Franchise Transfer Agreement with Time
Warner and Media One, and that representatives from the two cable companies
are present to answer questions.
Council Member Sniff complimented staff for dealing with this issue promptly
and efficiently. He also thanked the two cable companies for their forthcoming
attitude, and welcomed Time Warner to the City.
RESOLUTION NO.99-94
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING THE TRANSFER OF A CABLE TELEVISION
FRANCHISE ORIGINALLY GRANTED TO COLONY COMMUNICATIONS, INC. TO
SUMMIT CABLE SERVICES OF GEORGIA, INC.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.99-94
as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
5. CONSIDERATION OF MARKETING PLAN AND CONTRACT SERVICES
AGREEMENT WITH KINER/GOODSELL ADVERTISING FOR FISCAL YEAR
1999/2000.
Ms. Coyle, Managemen Analyst, advised that the staff report contains an
outline of the alternatives related to the proposed Marketing Plan that were
discussed by Council on July 6, 1 999' and that representatives from
Kiner/Goodsell are present to answer any questions.
Council Member Sniff stated that he felt it's awkward for Council to negotiate
this matter over the dais, and suggested referring it back to staff to negotiate
a modified contract with greater emphasis on economic development and less
emphasis on community events, with suitable adjustments in costs, including
the retainer. He believed that might work a lot smoother and more efficiently.
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Council Member Henderson stated that she still has a lot of concerns with the
program as presented. She wasn't necessarily opposed to anything in the
Marketing Plan, but felt some of the programs aren't appropriate at this time.
She wished to have some of the funds redirected, and was hesitant to direct
funds toward activities in The Village, given the amount of upcoming
construction that will be going on. She agreed with staff further negotiating
this contract.
Mayor Pena felt that the Council needs to give more direction to staff on this.
Council Member Sniff reiterated that he wished to see more emphasis on
economic development and significantly less emphasis on community events.
He then referred to a list of more traditional economic development activities
outlined in the staff report, and advised that he's supportive of hosting an event
for the Palm Desert ICSC Conference participants in October, increasing the
frequency of local television spots, adding television spots at selected times
throughout Southern California, and a billboard on I-i 0. He wished to get away
from some of the community events and not duplicate those being done by
other organizations in the City, noting that some of them would be drastically
affected by the upcoming construction in The Village.
Council Member Adolph stated that he was ready to approve the plan two
weeks ago because he felt it was a preliminary plan, and that he's still ready to
approve it.
Mayor Pena pointed out that the consultant has already proposed a reduction
in the retainer if certain changes are made, and advised that he wasn't opposed
to putting more dollars into more traditional economic development tools, but
felt the consultant's overall plan is to market the City in different areas. He
asked if the Council wants a full-on approach or a focused approach, and
advised that he's prepared to move forward and to modify some of the
programs later on if needed.
Council Member Perkins questioned whether he City is trying to solicit new
residents and customers or trying to bring in new companies, or both. He didn't
believe that billboard advertising in Los Angeles would help the City, and
questioned having them on I-i 0 because he doesn't like billboards. He wished
to make sure that the consultant is not duplicating the Chamber's efforts, and
was concerned that that may be the case in some of the events in The Village.
He supported the idea behind the plan, but felt it needs some work.
Council Member Henderson stated that she was also opposed to putting
billboards in Los Angeles. As for modifying the plan as it goes along, she noted
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that the Council didn't get that opportunity after the plan was adopted last year,
and it's her understanding that what the Council is being asked to do now is to
approve" the program for this year. Based on that, she felt it's important for
her to express her concerns. She was uncomfortable approving the plan based
on the assumption that various components will come back before Council to
modify, and felt it would be a slow starter if they did. She wished to see more
of the funds directed toward more traditional economic development activities.
She believed that promotion of community events is important, but didn't feel
that it's important to do this year, and felt it would be better to bring people
into The Village after the improvements are completed.
Scott Kiner, 73-101 Highway 111, Suite 4, Palm Desert, of Kiner/Goodsell
Advertising, stated that they need Council's input on how to redirect the
community event funds to more traditional economic development activities.
He agreed that with the construction going on, this may not be the best time
to add community events, but understood that the Council wished to mitigate
the negative PR" resulting from that construction, which alone is a sizable
project. He advised that they could come back with suggestions on. how to
redirect the funds.
Mayor Pena was concerned about delaying the plan another two weeks.
Council Member Sniff felt that a continuance would help everyone involved to
better define the plan.
Mayor Pena suggested forming a subcommittee of himself and Council Member
Henderson to meet with the consultants and staff to get something moving.
Council Member Perkins didn't have a problem with that, but felt it's important
to get moving in the right direction.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Kiner advised that it could take six
to eight weeks to produce an infomercial on economic development. He further
advised that an infomercial on economic development would f?cus on the
benefits of opening a business in the City, and not on restaurants. He advised
that they had hoped to have programs active by November, which is a big
month in the valley, and that two weeks would not be a problem, as long as
they know how to redirect the funds so that they can bring back a plan that
Council can approve next time. He advised that the Council's input is critical,
and that their marketing strategies will vary depending on what the Council
means by economic development.
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Council Member Henderson noted that the City has an adopted Economic
Development Plan, which clearly states what direction the Council feels the City
should go.
Mr. Kiner advised that they need some input from Council on how to put
moving to La Quinta" and shopping in La Quinta" into the Marketing Plan.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to refer this
matter back to staff to negotiate a modified contract with Kiner/Goodsell
Advertising with greater emphasis on economic development and less on
community events, with suitable adjustments in costs, including the retainer;
and to form a subcommittee of Mayor Pena and Council Member Henderson to
work with staff and KinerlGoodsell and to report back on August 3, 1 999.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-98.
6. CONSIDERATION OF A SUBLEASE AGREEMENT FOR THE LA QUINTA ARTS
ASSOCIATION TO SUBLEASE A PORTION OF THE CITY-OWNED BUILDING
OCCUPIED BY THE LA QUINTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, AND OF A
REQUEST BY THE LA QUINTA ARTS ASSOCIATION FOR FINANCIAL
ASSISTANCE.
Ms. Coyle, Management Analyst, advised that the City's lease agreement with
the Chamber of Commerce requires the City's written approval for the Chamber
to sublease the building to the La Quinta Arts Association. She advised that
Attachment #5 draft letter to the Chamber) outlines several requirements that
should be included in the sublease, and that the Arts Association has also
submitted a Community Services Grant Application for financial assistance for
insurance costs and Village Use Permit fees.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. Coyle advised that the Chamber
was told by their insurance company that a rider for accident liability cannot be
put on their policy for the Arts Association.
Elaine Reynolds, 49-294 Avenida Vista Bonita, asked the Council to approve the
sublease and grant request, stating that she felt the City should move forward
with this if it truly wishes to become the City of Art." She then advised of a
community she recently visited in British Columbia that has five art galleries
with a population of only 7,000 residents. As for the insurance, the artists will
display their work at their own risks.
Council Member Sniff wasn't sure that it's an ideal location, and asked if theV
anticipated making further requests for assistance, noting that there was some
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mention previously about adding onto the building, as well as adding some type
of security such as fencing.
Ms. Reynolds advised that they are anxious to put in a fence and have a
sculpture garden, but that requires a Use Permit at a cost of $1,763, which
they are requesting assistance with, and that will take care of their needs for
the year. They plan to see how it develops before considering enlarging.
Council Member Henderson was supportive of the Arts Association, but
understood when the Council approved the concept of the sublease, that the
sculpture garden wouldn't be considered until after the traffic/parking problem
has been assessed. She didn't have a problem helping with the insurance
costs, but felt that the Village Use Permit should be put on hold until the parking
issue has been assessed, which won't be known until after they've been open
for a while.
Mayor Pena was concerned about the continuing amount of money that would
be requested, and wasn't comfortable paying for liability coverage. for the
officers and directors. He felt that was the Association's responsibility. He
was also concerned that their moving forward is contingent upon getting the
grant.
Ms. Reynolds understood that other organizations use their grant funds to pay
for their officers and directors insurance, but without spelling it out in their
application like the Association did.
Council Member Perkins felt that this an opportunity for the City to expand its
culture and to open up another resource for the community, and suggested
giving them a grant of $5,000 to make sure that they have enough money to
do the modifications and security that's needed. He felt that the traffic
problems could be addressed if and when they come up.
Council Member Adolph agreed, and felt that this would give the City another
avelue to expand its art culture. He believed the Mayor has a good point
regarding the insurance, and preferred giving them a grant to use as needed.
He felt their request is a small amount in comparison to other monies spent by
the City, and although he wasn't sure that he would support $5,000, he
supported giving them an amount that will help them get established.
Council Member Sniff didn't have a problem with the sublease, and agreed that
it might be better to give them a grant to use as they see fit, and supported an
amount of $5,000.
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Council Member Henderson pointed out that they were only asking for $2,463,
which she felt was reasonable. She was concerned about the funds being used
to expand the facility before knowing how it's going to work, and felt that it
would be wiser for them to have a sense of whether or not it's going to be
successful before spending the funds on a Village Use Permit. She advised that
she would support their request, but didn't feel that it's a logical precedent to
increase a request.
Mayor Pena agreed.
Council Member Adolph suggested rounding it off to $2,500, and Council
Member Henderson agreed.
Council Member Perkins felt that the group had shorted themselves on what
they're going to need, and that the City should seriously consider giving them
more so that they can operate properly.
In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Reynolds advised that they already have
volunteers for staffing the facility on weekends, and anticipate having others to
help during the week.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the
attached letter to the Chamber of Commerce granting written approval for a
sublease between the Chamber and the La Quinta Arts Association subject to
the outlined conditions and approval of the sublease agreement by the City
Attorney, and approve the Arts Association funding request in the amount of
$2,500.
Council Member Perkins wished to see a compromise between $5,000 and
$2,500.
Council Member Henderson noted that the Council can always revisit this if the
organization is successful, and that there have been some concerns voiced
about a potential parkinr problem around the post office.
Council Member Perkins stated that he rarely sees more than one or two
vehicles parked at the Historical Society, and doesn't anticipate any more than
that here. He also noted that the post office is closed on Sunday and is closed
on Saturday at 1:00 p.m. He felt that it would be easier to help them now as
opposed to having them come back later on, and believed there's no reason to
be chintzy about it. He advised that he couldn't support the motion as it
stands.
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City Council Minutes 13 July20, 1999
Council Member Adolph wasn't opposed to increasing the amount if it's going
to make a difference in them putting in a facility that's going to compliment the
community, and advised that he would support an amount of $4,000.
Motion failed with Council Members Adolph, Perkins, and Sniff voting NO.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Adolph to approve the
attached letter to the Chamber of Commerce granting written approval for a
sublease between the Chamber and the La Quinta Arts Association subject to
the outlined conditions and approval of the sublease agreement by the City
Attorney, and approve the Arts Association funding request in the amount of
$4,000. Motion carried with Council Member Henderson and Mayor Pena
voting NO. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-99.
7. CONSIDERATION OF A REQUEST FROM THE STUDENT CREATIVE RECYCLE
ART PROGRAM SCRAP) GALLERY REQUESTING FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE.
Ms. di lono, Planning Manager, advised that the SCRAP Gallery has requested
funding in the amount of $1 0,000, and that $10,000 has been budgeted in the
AB939 Account for community promotions. However, $6,500 has been
requested to be allocated under the Kiner/Goodsell contract, leaving a balance
of $3,500 in the account.
Mayor Pena didn't recall receiving a budget report from SCRAP, and wished to
see how the funds are being used in their program.
Council concurred on continuing this matter for additional information.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to continue the
funding request by SCRAP Gallery to August 3, 1 999, and to ask staff to look
into the questions regarding their budget. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE
ORDER NO.99-100.
8. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF A REIMBURSEMENT AGREEMENT WITH
COACHELLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS TO RECOVER
CERTAIN CONSTRUCTION COSTS RELATED TO THE WASHINGTON STREET
BRIDGE WIDENING OVER THE EVACUATION CHANNEL.
Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that the proposed Reimbursement
Agreement for the Washington Street Bridge Widening Project has been
approved by CVAG, but will not be nded until 2008/2009 if funds are
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available. He advised that the funding amount of approximately $1.5 is for
50% of the design and construction costs.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the
Reimbursement Agreement between the City of La Quinta and CVAG for
improvements to Washington Street from 500' south of the La Quinta
Evacuation Channel to Avenue 50, including the widening of the bridge over the
La Quinta Evacuation Channel. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER
NO.99-101.
9. CONSIDERATION OF AWARD OF CONTRACT TO CONSTRUCT PROJECT
98-15, VARIOUS FISCAL YEAR 1998199 CITYWIDE STREET IMPROVEMENTS.
Mr. Vogt, Public Works Director, advised that the apparent low bidder was non-
responsive due to not completing information on the bid documents listing the
subcontractors.
Mayor Pena asked why this has happened so much recently.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that staff is working on language to put
into the bid, but this one went out to bid prior to the language being changed.
Mayor Pena asked if the bid package includes a checklist.
Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that it's always been in the bid specs,
but that staff is in the process of putting in some additional language that will
emphasize it more.
Mr. Vogt noted that it's also pointed out during the pre-construction meetings,
and that it's a law to keep general contractors from bid shopping.
Council Member Perkins questioned why contractors would submit a bid of this
amount without double-checking and even triple-checking it 3efore it's
submitted. He didn't feel that it's necessary to emphasize it, and was
concerned that it might cause those areas not emphasized to be ignored.
Council Member Henderson agreed, and was concerned that too much emphasis
on trying to babysit them in one area, might cause the City to get caught up
being short in another area that's not emphasized. She was opposed to going
overboard on this.
Mayor Pena also questioned why the engineer's estimate is substantially lower.
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Mr. Vogt didn't feel that anything had been missed, and that the engineer's
estimate was just low.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Freeland, Senior Engineer, advised
that approximately four contractors received the bid packages.
Mr. Vogt noted that it's a very specialized contract with only a few contractors
doing traffic signal work.
Council Member Sniff suggested including a checklist in the bid package.
Council Member Henderson noted that it would be a very long checklist if
everything is included.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to declare the bid
received from DBX, Inc. for Project 98-1 5 non-responsive, and award a contract
to the second-lowest responsible bidder, Sierra Pacific Electrical Contracting, in
the amount of $236,793 to construct Project 98-15, Various Fiscal Year
1 998/99 Citywide Street Improvements.
Council Member Adolph stated that he likes to be consistent, and noted that he
voted against the bridge contract where $130,000 difference was involved, but
would support this amount since it's not very much.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-102.
10. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF A RECORDS RETENTION PROGRAM.
Mrs. Juhola, City Clerk, advised that the proposed Records Retention Guidelines
have been reviewed by the City Attorney, City Manager, and all Department
Directors, and are recommended for adoption.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mrs. Juhola advised that in the City
Clerk's Department a lot of the records are being scanned onto optical disks,
even though the proposed guidelines only require a two-year retention period.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mrs. Juhola explained the optical scanning
process whereby images of the documents are put onto an optical disk for
permanent storage, and noted that La Quinta was the first city in the valley to
implement that process.
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Council Member Sniff was somewhat concerned about destroying City
documents, and asked about the destruction of Council agenda packets.
Mrs. Juhola advised that the proposed guidelines require retention of Council
agenda packets for two years. However, the City Clerk's Department has
already scanned the entire packets from the City's incorporation up into 1 996,
and will continue to scan them for permanent retention, as well as keep two
years of hard copy in the file.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mrs. Juhola confirmed that the optical disks cannot
be altered.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mrs. Juhola advised that the optical disks
are backed up onto data tape, and that both are stored in the vault. The City
Clerk's Department will also be scanning memoranda and correspondence,
which the proposed guidelines require to be retained for two years. She advised
that many of the documents in the Community Development Department have
to be retained forever.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mrs. Juhola advised that the City is getting close
to needing a long-term storage facility, but with the adoption of these
guidelines, that need will be eliminated for a while.
Council Member Henderson felt that it might be beneficial for the Council to
have some sense as to what documents the City Clerk's Department is scanning
that's not required to be kept permanently by the guidelines, and to use that as
a standard for other departments to follow.
Mrs. Juhola noted that the enacting resolution authorizes the City Manager to
approve Departmental Policies to retain records for a longer period of time.
Council Member Henderson noted that the Administrative Services Committee
of the League of California Cities has worked on these guidelines for about three
year,, and fully supports it.
Council Member Perkins pointed out that prior to destruction, a list of proposed
documents to be destroyed has to be submitted to the City Attorney for
consent.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mrs. Juhola advised that the optical disk
system in use by the City has been approved by the American Records
Management Association, and that it's acceptable in court for reproduction and
certification of the record.
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RESOLUTION NO.99-95
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING A RECORDS RETENTION SCHEDULE FOR THE
DEPARTMENTS AND OFFICES OF THE CITY AND APPROVING DESTRUCTION
OF RECORDS IN ACCORDANCE HEREWITH.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adopt Resolution No.99-95
as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
11. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO SECTION 2.08 OF THE LA QUINTA
CHARTER AND MUNICIPAL CODE RELATIVE TO CITY MANAGER AND
SECTION 2.10 RELATIVE TO CITY CLERK.
There were no changes to the staff report as submitted to the City Council by
the City Manager's Department and on file in the City Clerk's Department.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to take up Ordinance
No.334 by title and number only and to waive further reading.
Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, noted for the record that the effective date will
be September 15, 1999.
Motion carried unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.334
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AN AMENDMENT TO THE LA QUINTA CHARTER AND
MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDING CHAPTER 2.08 CITY MANAGER) AND
CHAPTER 2.10 CITY CLERK).
It was moved by Counci. /lembers Sniff/Adolph to introduce Ordinance No.334
on first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Adolph, Henderson, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSENT: None
ABSTAIN: None
STUDY SESSION None
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REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
Investment Advisory Board Minutes of June 16, 1999 In response to Mayor Pen a,
Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that she meets with the Board each year at
their annual meeting, but that this year's meeting was rescheduled, due to lack of
quorum, and she was unable to attend the meeting in person and did so through a
conference call.
Chamber of Commerce Workshopllnformation Exchange Committee In response to
Council Member Henderson, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that appointment
of a new representative on this committee will be agendized for the next Council
meeting.
C. V. Mosquito & Vector Control District Council Member Perkins explained the
District's role regarding bees on private property, and advised that the Fire Department
is the first response in cases of emergency.
C. V. Mountains Conservancy Council Member Sniff reported that the Conservancy
has appointed a subcommittee to deal with The Mirada's request for an amended
agreement to delay the process regarding fencing for Big Horn Sheep until 2002.
League of California Cities Council Member Henderson referred to some information
she brought back from the General Membership meeting in Desert Hot Springs last
week and had distributed to Council, and reported that the City of Desert Hot Springs
is asking each city to acknowledge and read aloud their proclamation, which declares
the water from the Mission Springs Water District as the best drinking water in the
world. She asked the Council to consider their request.
SunLine Transit Agency/SunLine Services Group Mayor Pena reported that SunLine
will be taking over the SunDial service in August. He also questioned a concern that
was recently brought before Council regarding the SunDial bus not being able to fit
under the eaves in the shade at the Senior Center, stating that he recently saw the bus
parked there.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that staff has verified with SunLine that the bus
does make all of its deliveries under the shaded entrance.
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Council Member Henderson suggested sending a response to that effect to the woman
who made the request.
Mayor Pena advised that he would request that SunLine send a letter as well.
* ** *** **
All other reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
G-1. TRANSMITTAL OF REVENUE AND EXPENDITURES REPORT DATED MAY 31,
1999.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to receive and file
the Revenue & Expenditures Report dated May 31, 1999, for the City of
La Quinta. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-103.
H-3. REPORT ON SPEED HUMPS.
Council Member Henderson noted that the residents on Calle Cadiz have
requested that their street hump, which was originally constructed for water
drainage, be retained when the streets are mproved, and she felt this
information could be used in response to their request.
Council Member Sniff felt that it might also have significant value in dealing
with the proto-type street, and suggested having it come back to Council during
those discussions.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION REGARDING ATTENDANCE AT THE Y2K EMERGENCY
RESPONSE STRATEGIES FOR MUNICIPALITIES" CONFERENCE IN SAN
FRANCISCO, AUGUST 16-17, 1999.
Council Member Perkins recommended that the City Manager be authorized to
select a City representative to attend the Y2K Emergency Response Strategies
for Municipalities Conference in San Francisco on August 1 6 and 1 7, noting
that the cost of the conference is $1,300 plus hotel and airfare.
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Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the conference appears to be very
comprehensive, and that John Hardcastle, the City?s person in charge of
emergency response, would be the appropriate person to attend.
Mayor Pena advised that he recently received a letter from the White House
encouraging municipalities to get involved with some of the Y2K issues and to
put together programs like the City has, and he has asked the Finance Director
to respond to the letter.
Council Member Perkins felt that some of the information received at this
conference might fit in with the upcoming Y2K meeting that the Council has
discussed having in September.
Council concurred on agendizing this matter for August 3, 1 999.
Council recessed to Financing Authority meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to and until 7:00 p.m.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT None
PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor and Council Members presented plaques to the following out-going
Commissioners in appreciation of their service:
Kay Wolff Human Services Commission/Community Services Commission
Charrie Chappie Arts in Public Places Commission/Cultural Arts Commission
The following out-going commissioners were not present: Olga Betancourt, of the
Human Services Commission/Community Services Commission; Patrick Welch, of the
Arts in Public Places Commission/Cultural Arts Commission; and Diana Brown, of the
Investment Advisory Board.
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PUBLIC HEARINGS
JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY
3. FIVE-YEAR IMPLEMENTATION PLAN FOR THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT
PROJECT AREA NOS. 1 AND 2.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN.
Frank Spevacek, of Rosenow, Spevacek Group, advised that the purpose of the
public hearing is to receive testimony and the Council's input on a proposed
Second Five-Year Implementation Plan for Redevelopment Project Areas No.1
and 2. Under Redevelopment Law, the Redevelopment Agency is required to
prepare an Implementation Plan that outlines the expenditures on both housing
and non-housing projects for the next five years. The Plan must be reviewed
every two and half years, and updated on a five-year basis. The proposed Plan
outlines accomplishments, and identifies a potential $3.7 million in Project Area
No.1 non-committed Agency funds that can be used to fund projects during
this cycle, as well as identifies specific projects that the Agency may want to
consider. It also identifies non-housing capital improvement projects, totaling
approximately $3.6 million, that are scheduled for the next two fiscal years.
Approximately $600,000 of resources have been identified in Project Area No.
2 that are set aside for economic development initiatives, and an additional $1.6
million that is pledged to capital improvement programs within the project area.
The Plan also identifies financial resources available to implement the affordable
housing objectives in both project areas, and for the five-year period, $2.3
million is available in Project Area No.1 revenues and $15.9 in Project No.2
revenues. The Plan also sets forth various proposals for non-housing and
housing redevelopment projects.
He then advised of several modifications that need to be made to the proposed
document as follows: on Page 17, change items listed as completed" to
commenced;" on Page 37, delete completed" after the traffic signal at
We3(ward Ho/Dune Palms Drive; on Page 41, move La Quinta Rental Housing
Program from completed projects" to continuing projects;" and on Page 46,
change the last sentence under the A. G. Spanos project to ten units being
affordable to moderate-income households and ten units being affordable to
low-income households." He advised that staff is recommending adoption of
the Second Five-Year Implementation Plan as modified.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Spevacek advised that according to statistics
produced by the State Department of Housing Community Development in
1 997, the Agency ranks in the top three in the State for moving toward meeting
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the Agency's obligations to produce affordable housing. He felt that the City
is doing a very commendable job in trying to meet its objectives.
Mayor Pena felt that that might place the City in a position whereby the State
would be going after a lot of other agencies before looking at La Quinta if the
City should fail to meet some of the mandated goals.
Mr. Spevacek agreed, but noted that housing is becoming more of a priority
than it was under the previous State administration, and that proposals are
starting to come forward for taking housing funds away from local agencies and
investing them by the State. He recommended that the Agency continue doing
what it has been doing.
In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Spevacek advised that more
housing and City growth creates more housing requirements, which will
continue to increase the mandated numbers set forth by the State. He advised
that the City's obligation is to try to achieve 1 5% of all units from the time the
two project areas were adopted in 1 983 and 1 989, to 2033 and 2039,
respectively.
Council Member Henderson agreed that the City needs to stay on top of this
because of the push in the Legislature to remove these funds from City control.
There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED.
Council Member Sniff advised that he was prepared to adopt the Plan.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Genovese, City Manager,
advised that the Civic Center Campus improvements are included in the Plan
because the other funding source is very limited, causing the remaining portions
to most likely be funded through Redevelopment Agency funds.
In response to Council Aember Henderson, Mr. Spevacek advised that the
projects have been included with the understanding that they will be prioritized
as funds become available, noting that the non-housing funds for Project Area
No.1 have been committed in the Five-Year Capital Improvement Program for
the next two fiscal years.
In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, confirmed that the
City receives housing credits for the homes built by C. V. Housing Coalition
CVHC), as long as they are covenanted appropriately and meet the
requirements.
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Mr. Spevacek advised that the City provided some financial assistance for the
first 1 0 homes, and that Agency regulatory agreements exist on those homes.
Staff is in the process of talking to CVHC to determine what kind of covenants
they intend to put on the new homes.
Ms. Honeywell advised that it's not necessary for the City to participate
financially to receive housing credits.
Council Member Perkins asked about the possibility of using redevelopment
funds to improve Adams Street, north of Miles Avenue, where the street
narrows because of the lID property.
Mr. Spevacek advised that it would mean taking some of the Project Area No.
2 funds that were set aside for economic development and using them for
infrastructure.
In response to Council Member Henderson, Mr. Genovese advised that staff
could explore the possibility of it being a joint project with lID.
Council Member Perkins wished to see it explored, as well as the costs
involved.
Mayor Pena felt that it could be considered a blighted condition under
inadequate public improvements.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt the
Second Five-Year Implementation Plan for Redevelopment Project Areas No.1
and 2 as modified. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-104.
1. TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28409 A REQUEST FOR A ONE-YEAR TIME
EXTENSION FOR A PREVIOUSLY-APPROVED SINGLE-FAMILY SUBDIVISION
QIF 19 LOTS AND OTHER COMMON LOTS ON 9.15 ACRES LOCATED ON THE
NORTH SIDE OF AVENIDk MONTEZUMA ND WEST OF vE YUCATAN
PEN INSULA NEIGHBORHdOD. APPLICANTS: MR. CHARLES B. ML)RPHY AND
MR. LYNN R. KUNKLE.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN.
Ms. di lono, Planning Manager, advised that this is a request for a one-year time
extension for Tentative Tract Map 28409, which was originally approved on
May 6, 1997 and allows for the subdivision of 9.15 acres into 19 single-family
lots and other common lots on property located on the north side of Avenida
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Montezuma and west of the Yucatan Peninsula neighborhood. The Planning
Commission has recommended approval subject to findings and conditions.
There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC
HEARING CLOSED.
RESOLUTION NO.99-96
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A ONE-YEAR TIME EXTENSION FOR TENTATIVE
TRACT MAP 28409, FOR A 19-LOT SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
SUBDIVISION AND MISCELLANEOUS LETTERED LOTS ON APPROXIMATELY
9.15 ACRES C. B. MURPHY AND L. R. KUNKLE).
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No.
99-96 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONTINUED PUBLIC HEARING TO CERTIFY'ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
98-369 AND APPROVE TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 28982, SITE DEVELOPMENT
PERMIT 98-631, AND TENTATIVE TRACT 24230 AMENDMENT NO.1 A
REQUEST OF A. G. SPANOS CORPORATION TO APPROVE DEVELOPMENT
PLANS FOR A 160 MULTI-FAMILY UNIT PROJECT TO SUBDIVIDE 10.17
ACRES FOR 160 AIRSPACE CONDOMINIUMS, AND ELIMINATION OF A
REQUIREMENT TO PROVIDE AFFORDABLE HOUSING UNITS LOCATED AT THE
SOUTHWEST CORNER OF AVENUE 47 AND ADAMS STREET. APPLICANT:
A. G. SPANOS.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN.
Ms. di lono, Planning Manager, advised that this item was continued on May
1 8, 1 999, and that the applicant is requesting a second continuance to
September 7, 1 999, to allow the Planning Commission to review the project at
the new location.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to continue the
public hearing for certification of a Mitigated Negative Declaration EA 98-369)
and approval of Tentative Tract Map 28982, Site Development Permit 98-631,
and Tract 24230 Amendment No.1) to September 7, 1999. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-105.
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The City Attorney announced that the City Council has concluded a Closed
Session under Government Code Section 54956.6 and unanimously approved
a new contract for the City Manager, which will be available in the City Clerk's
Office after it's executed.
There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to
adjourn. Motion carried unanimously.
Res?ctfully submitted,
AUNDRA L. A, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
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