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1999 12 07 CC Minutesing -> 10_S LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL MINUTES DECEMBER 7, 1 999 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 None Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency and to the hour of 3:00 p.m. 3:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT Audrey Ostrowsky, P.O. Box 351, read a letter she wrote to Council in opposition to live/work housing in The Village, and stated that she hopes the City will work with her to plan an economically profitable hotel on her property in the downtown area. CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA Confirmed APPROVAL OF MINUTES MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve the City Council Minutes of November 16, 1999, as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. ANNOUNCEMENTS None BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 2 December 7, 1 999 PRESENTATIONS Council Member Sniff presented a plaque that he had accepted on behalf of the City from the Friends of the Desert Mountains. He also distributed brochures regarding their Adopt an Acre Program. Council Member Perkins suggested agendizing the Adopt an Acre Program for the next Council meeting for possible support. WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE 1. LETTER FROM SUSAN BENAY RESIGNING FROM THE CULTURAL ARTS COMMISSION. Council concurred on directing staff to prepare a letter of appreciation and plaque for Ms. Benay for her service on the Commission. 2. LETTER FROM THE RIVERSIDE COUNTY FIRE DEPARTMENT EXPLORER POST NO.655 REQUESTING FUNDING ASSISTANCE. Council concurred on directing staff to seek a more-defined grant request, and to agendize it for a future meeting. 3. LETTER FROM THE LA QUINTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE REGARDING ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOWS IN THE PLAZA LA QUINTA SHOPPING CENTER. Council Member Adolph asked to have this matter agendized for a future meeting for possible revision of City regulations, noting that the events bring a lot of business to the shopping center. In response to Council Member Henderson, Community Development Director Herman advised that the previous application was processed prior to the revised zoning ordinance, which now limits the events to four times a year. Council concurred on agendizing this matter for December 21, 1 999. CONSENT CALENDAR 1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED DECEMBER 7, 1999. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 3 December 7, 1 999 2. APPROVAL OF A BANKING SERVICES CONTRACT WITH WELLS FARGO BANK. 3. APPROVAL OF THE DECLARATION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY. 4. APPROVAL OF ANNUAL REVIEW OF THE HOME DEPOT DEVELOPMENT AGREEMENT. 5. AUTHORIZATION TO DISTRIBUTE A REQUEST FOR PROPOSALS FOR THE PARKS AND RECREATION MASTER PLAN UPDATE. 6. APPROVAL OF PARTICIPATION IN THE LIVING FOR YOUR 90'S" SENIOR INSPIRATION AWARDS PROGRAM. 7. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATION OF ENGINEERING PLAN RACK. RESOLUTION NO.99-154) 8. ADOPTION OF A RESOLUTION GRANTING CONDITIONAL APPROVAL OF A FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR TRACT 28458-3, ADVANCED DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION. RESOLUTION NO. 99-155). 9. ACCEPTANCE OF IMPROVEMENTS ASSOCIATED WITH TRACT 28019, THE SEASONS, JIM DAN D., L.L.C. 10. APPROVAL OF FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT FOR PARCEL MAP 29052, LUNDIN DEVELOPMENT. 11. APPROVAL OF SPECIFICATIONS AND AUTHORIZATION TO RECEIVE BIDS FOR PROJECT NO.99-12, CITYWIDE SLURRY SEAL AND RESTRIPING PROGRAM. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the Consent Calendar as recommended and with Item Nos. 7 and 8 being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 99-154 and 99-155 respectively. Motion carried unanimously. MINU4E ORDER NO.99-160. BUSINESS SESSION 1. CONSIDERATION OF CITY COUNCIL REORGANIZATION: A. SELECTION OF MAYOR PRO TEM B. SELECTION OF REPRESENTATIVES OF VARIOUS BOARDS/COMMISSIONS BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 4 December 7, 1 999 There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City Clerk's Department. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Henderson to elect Council Member Sniff Mayor Pro Tem. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-161. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Sniff to leave all Council appointments the same as last year. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-162. 2. CONSIDERATION OF OVERNIGHT TRAVEL FOR COUNCIL MEMBERS AND STAFF TO ATTEND THE INTERNATIONAL COUNCIL OF SHOPPING CENTERS SPRING CONVENTION IN LAS VEGAS, NEVADA, MAY 23-25, 2000. There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and dn file in the City Clerk's Department. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve authorization for overnight travel for staff and up to three Council Members to attend the International Council of Shopping Centers Spring Convention in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 23-25, 2000. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-163. 3. CONSIDERATION OF FUNDING REQUEST FROM THE BOB HOPE CHRYSLER CLASSIC. Management Analyst Wilson advised that on November 1 6, 1 999, representatives of the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic gave a brief presentation and requested funding up to $50,000 to defray some of the soil stabilization and security costs of the tournament. He advised that the City allocated $1 0,000 last year for law enforcement. Council Member Sniff supported a funding amount of $10,000. Council concurred, with Mayor Pena advising he would support an even greater amount. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to approve an allocation of $10,000 to the Bob Hope Chrysler Classic from the Police Special Enforcement Fund to be utilized for site preparation and security. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 5 December 7, 1 999 Robert Brennan, President of the Millennium Bob Hope Chrysler Classic, asked the Council to reconsider a greater amount, noting that their expenses increase each year. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-164. 4. CONSIDERATION OF CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO.1 TO E. L. YEAGER FOR PROJECT NO.98-09, WASHINGTON STREET BRIDGE WIDENING, TO PROVIDE RUBBERIZED ASPHALT ON WASHINGTON STREET AND AVENUE 50. Public Works Director Vogt advised that on June 22, 1 999, Council directed staff to obtain a cost estimate from the low bidder E. L. Yeager) of the Washington Street Bridge-Widening Project for a possible change order to grind and remove the existing asphalt cap on Avenue 50 and Washington Street along the Montero Estates development and to replace it with rubberized asphalt pavement. The indication from manufacturers is that rubberized asphalt can decrease noise levels from 3-5 dBA. The cost estimate provided by E. L. Yeager for removing and replacing the asphalt on Washington Street from Avenue 50 to 450 feet northward and on Avenue 50 from Washington Street to 900 feet westward, and using a rubberized asphalt cap on the bridge project from Avenue 50 to 320 feet south of the bridge is $131,383. Staff recommended approval of the change order and an additional appropriation of $244,900 from the Infrastructure Fund for use as contingency for the project. Council Member Henderson supported staff's recommendation, and hoped that the project will result in the City having some idea of how much rubberized asphalt actually decreases noise levels. Council Member Perkins supported the change order, but felt the City should be careful in its analysis, noting that other gated communities may make the same request. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Vogt advised there are insufficient funds in the new developer fee program at the present time to pay for sound walls, and he recalled that the cost estimate for a sound wall along the Montero Estates is approximately $400,000. Council Member Adolph questioned whether the funds should be used for rubberized asphalt instead of placing it in a fund for a future sound wall. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 6 December 7, 1 999 Mr. Vogt noted that it would be quite some time before there would be sufficient funds in the account for a sound wall, and that this would be a good test case for rubberized asphalt. Mayor Pena felt rubberized asphalt along with a future sound wall would have a great impact on the noise levels. He asked if there would be any debris from the rubberized asphalt, to which Mr. Vogt responded no. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Vogt advised that the rubberized asphalt cap will be approximately 1 thick, and according to manufacturers, stronger than traditional asphalt. Council Member Sniff supported the project, and suggested establishing a benchmark of sound before the project begins in order to have something to compare afterwards. Mr. Vogt advised that noise levels were established and presented to Council in June. Council Member Sniff wished to have something more current. Council Member Henderson concurred, and understood that Council's intent in getting the cost estimate was to decrease the noise level with a combination of rubberized asphalt and eventual construction of an eight-foot-high wall. Mark Dallanegra, 78-496 CaIle Seama, felt it would be better to put the money toward building a sound wall. Council Member Sniff noted that the City's intent is to try to develop a package solution. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to appropriate an additional $244,900 from City Infrastructure Funds for use as contingency for this project and approve Contract Change Order No. 1 to E. L. Yeager for Project No.98-09, Washington Street Bridge Widening, in an amount not to exceed $131,383 and adding 10 working days to the contract time to provide and install rubberized asphalt on Washington Street, north and southbound lanes, from 320 feet south of the bridge to 1 450 feet north of Avenue 50 along the frontage of Montero Estates and on Avenue 50 from 400 feet east of Washington Street to 900 feet west of Washington Street, and to set current benchmarks on the decibel levels and again within a reasonable time after the installation of the rubberized asphalt. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 7 December 7, 1 999 Council Member Adolph felt it's important to resolve the noise level problem as soon as possible. Council Member Perkins asked staff to compare the effects of a Colorado sound barrier wall versus a concrete block wall. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-165. 5. CONTINUED CONSIDERATION OF A RECOMMENDATION OF THE HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION FOR THE ALLOCATION OF FUNDS IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $10,000 TO HIRE A CULTURAL RESOURCES CONSULTANT TO PREPARE GUIDELINES FOR THE CURATION OF ARCHAEOLOGICAL COLLECTIONS. Planning Manager di lono advised that staff met with three of eight Indian tribal bands to discuss the future of curating artifacts. She stated all three were interested but only the Agua Caliente Band is considering a curation facility within their museum which they expect to construct within the next three to five years. Due to the potential loss of archaeological resources, the Historic Preservation Commission has recommended preparation of procedures to set up a curation facility for the purpose of carrying artifacts for exhibition and scientific research. It would not include Native American sacred or ceremonial artifacts. The Historic Preservation Commission has recommended appropriation of funds not to exceed $10,000 and authorization for the distribution of an RFP. In response to Council Member Adolph, Ms. di lono advised discussions are ongoing with the three tribal bands on how to store the artifacts. At the present time some of the artifacts are taken to Riverside and some are kept by the archaeologists. Council Member Sniff supported moving forward and dealing with other relevant comments as they come up. Council Member Henderson asked about the possibility of utilizing a grant from the State Historic Preservation Office. Ms. di lono advised she would look into a grant. She further advised that the consultant will look at the State guidelines to determine if those guidelines are too arduous for the City or incompatible with the desert area, and added that the City is not required to comply with the State or Federal guidelines. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 8 December 7, 1 999 MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission and appropriate funds from the General Fund Reserve in an amount not to exceed $10,000 and authorize the distribution of a Request for Services. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-166. 6. CONSIDERATION OF A HISTORIC PRESERVATION COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION FOR DESIGN AND FINANCIAL PARTICIPATION OF A PLAQUE FOR TRADITION/HACIENDA DEL GATO IN AN AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED $500. There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City Clerk's Department. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the recommendation of the Historic Preservation Commission and authorize staff to appropriate an amount not to exceed $500 from the General Fund Reserve Account to prepare a plaque for Hacienda del Gato at the Tradition in conjunction with the La Quinta Historical Society. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-167. STUDY SESSION 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE ART IN PUBLIC PLACES ORDINANCE. Council Member Henderson asked that this item be continued to January 4, 2000, and advised she is looking for discussion of eliminating this assessment on single-family dwellings. Council concurred to continue this item to January 4, 2000. 2. DISCUSSION OF RENEWAL OF THE ClTY?S FRANCHISE AGREEMENTS WITH WASTE MANAGEMENT OF THE DESERT FOR SOLID WASTE COLLECTION AND RECYCLING. Assistant City Manager Weiss advised that as a result of Council's direction on June 1 5, 1 999, staff has begun negotiations with Waste Management of the Desert, and both parties have prepared an initial list of issues which are included in the staff report. He further advised that staff is prepared to solicit a proposal BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 9 December 7, 1 999 from Hilton Farnkopf & Hobson HFH), the City's AB939 consultant, to assist in the upcoming negotiations. Council Member Adolph commented about illegal dumping along Avenue 54, and wished to see it cleaned up on a regular basis. He also noted that several people have expressed appreciation for the resurfacing of that street. Mayor Pena believed the dumping problem is an enforcement issue, and should be brought to the attention of the Sheriff's Department. Council Member Sniff supported directing staff to continue with negotiations, and wished to see some time spent in getting some significant and positive input from Waste Management on the transfer station issue. Council Member Henderson also supported moving forward with negotiations, but questioned the need for an additional 96-gallon trash can because residents are already having trouble putting two cans away. She strongly supported shipping the City's trash somewhere other than Edom Hill, and was very interested in the on-call" curbside cleanup. Mayor Pena asked about the favored nations" policy, to which Mr. Weiss explained that the intent is to negotiate a rate structure that guarantees the City will continually have a competitive rate in comparison to other cities in the valley. Council Member Henderson noted that it's actually a favored cities" policy. Mayor Pena wished to have a report twice a year from Waste Management on some of the industry issues cities will face in the future so that La Quinta can look at its procedures and policies in advance. Council Member Henderson wished to see at least one ABOP" day a year. Mark Wasserman, 41-575 Eclectic Street, Palm Desert, Vice President of Municipal Marketing for Waste Management of the Desert, advised they are negotiating with Cathedral City for a mid-valley transfer station at Varner Road and Interstate 10. They hope to have it operational within 1 8-24 months, and plan to get other cities involved to make it more cost effective. He agreed to provide an industry trend update twice a year. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Wasserman advised that a mid- valley transfer station should help drive competitive pricing in relation to the Coachella facility. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 10 December 7, 1999 In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Wasserman stated approximately 1 400 to 1 600 tons of trash are picked up daily in the valley. Council discussed the merits of involving the firm of Hilton, Farnkopf and Hobson in the negotiations and concurred to securing a proposal from the consultants. 3. DISCUSSION OF THE ANNEXATION OF THE AREA GENERALLY LOCATED EAST OF MONROE STREET, BETWEEN AIRPORT BOULEVARD AND AVENUE 66, AND WEST OF THE NEW ALIGNMENT OF HIGHWAY 86. Community Development Director Herman advised that the Desert Resorts Regional Airport Area Annexation preliminary analysis, which is included in the staff report, is identified as part of the FY 1 999/2000 Economic Development Plan. Assumptions made in the analysis include future,development, population growth, service levels and associated costs, and potential revenue constraints imposed by existing County activities. A windshield survey was conducted to identify near and long-term capital improvements and associated cost estimates, and the analysis indicated that the study area service costs will exceed revenues throughout the first 25-year period. The analysis also outlines measures that could increase revenue, reduce service costs, and attempt to favorably balance revenues and expenditures. Council Member Henderson referred to an article in the Desert Sun regarding the potential annexation, and noted that the City's consideration of the annexation is in response to numerous requests from the property owners, and that the City is not looking to annex anyone against their wishes. Norman Cady, 82-831 Avenue 54, Thermal, said the proposed boundaries would result in the areas east of Monroe Street, south of Avenue 52, west of Calhoun/Van Buren Streets, and north of Avenue 56 being landlocked from any city except Coachella, and asked that they be included if Thermal is annexed. Joe Hammer, 74-757 North Cove Drive, Indian Wells, advised he owns 40 acres at Avenue 59 and Monroe Street, and his parents own 1 5 acres across the street, and both are supportive of being annexed to La Quinta. He believed property owners south of Avenue 62 would be interested as well. Mr. Herman advised the study area does extend to Avenue 66. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 11 December 7, 1 999 Mayor Pena encouraged residents in the potential annexation area to write letters to the City regarding whether or not they are interested in being annexed. Mike Wells, P.O. Box 281, Thermal, of Thermal Community Council, stated the population of Thermal is approximately 5,000, not 500. He felt if Thermal community residents have to make a choice, they would prefer being annexed by La Quinta instead of Coachella, but would prefer remaining unincorporated. He believed some of the residents are not aware of that choice. Some of the residents want to know how annexation will affect Empowerment Zone funding for that area. He asked that residents be kept informed of the annexation process. Council Member Henderson suggested developing a mailing list to keep residents informed of future meetings. Leticia De Lara, 46-200 Oasis Street, Suite 318, lndio, of Supervisor Roy Wilson's Office, stated Supervisor Wilson opposes the annexation primarily because of residents who have expressed opposition to him. She further advised that residents wish to have more information on what services would be provided. Council Member Adolph noted the annexation proposal was initiated by residents in the area, not the City. Council Member Henderson further noted the City has a letter on file from Kohl Ranch in support of the annexation. Council Member Perkins felt perhaps it's time to hold a community information meeting in Thermal to make attendance more convenient for the residents. Mayor Pena agreed and suggested meeting with the Thermal Community Council. Teresa Cotton, 84-850 Avenue 58, Thermal, said there is a lot more to Thermal than the village area, and she feels a majority of the landowners support annexation. Tellis Codekas, 56-960 Jackson Street, Thermal, felt sure residents in the Thermal village area do not want to be annexed but believed the majority of Thermal supports it. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 1 2 December 7, 1 999 Terry Miller, developer of The Village at the Palms and Palms Golf Club, advised they are actively pursuing annexation to La Quinta. John Cox, 66-725 Martinez Road, Thermal, Economic Development Officer for the Torres Martinez Indian Tribe, suggested a meeting with the tribe since privately-owned lands within the Indian Reservation are within the tribe's jurisdiction. Mr. Cusky, a resident of La Quinta, asked how the annexation would benefit La Quinta residents. Mayor Pena responded that is the purpose of preparing a benefit analysis. Council concurred on mailing a status report to residents of the potential annexation area. Council Member Henderson noted a number of property owners are ready to move forward now, and that a sphere of influence could be done along with an annexation application, perhaps with a modified boundary. Mayor Pena supported meeting with the residents in the area first. Council Member Perkins agreed. Council Member Sniff suggested scheduling two meetings in January with the residents. Council Member Adolph agreed but felt it's important to know how the annexation will economically affect the City. Council concurred to direct staff to come back on January 4, 2000, with potential meeting dates. 4. DISCUSSION OF LA QUINTA HISTORICAL SOCIETY MUSEUM. Assistant City Manager Weiss advised the Historic Preservation Commission has discussed the City obtaining the La Quinta Historical Society Museum and is generally supportive. The recommendation of the Historical Society Board is that the City acquire and expand the museum at its current site and investigate the potential for acquiring additional adjacent space, which may require vacating a small portion of Avenida Mendoza. The Board's recommendation is subject to the execution of a satisfactory lease and operating agreement. Alternatives for BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_S City Council Minutes 1 3 December 7, 1 999 the Council to consider exploring are: acquire and expand the museum at its current site and investigate possible availability of property in the vicinity for future expansion; acquire and relocate the museum to a vacant lot west of the Senior Center and expand the facility at that site; or acquire and relocate the museum to the Civic Center Campus and expand the facility at that site. Joe Irwin, 44-065 Camino La Cresta, of the La Quinta Historical Society, advised the Historical Society Board voted unanimously to support this. Council Member Perkins supported acquisition and expansion of the museum at its current site with the Historical Society continuing to operate it. Council concurred. Council Member Sniff wished to see a substantial expansion of the building with inclusion of a small theater for showing historical films of the valley. He suggested agendizing this item for December21, 1999. Mayor Pena said he hoped the museum could be moved to the Civic Center Campus, but realized it's not economically feasible. He noted this Council cannot bind the actions of future Councils but felt it would be a significant step forward to direct staff to pursue the acquisition with hope to expand it in the future. Council concurred to agendize this matter at the earliest possible date. Council recessed to and until 7:00 p.m. 7:00 P.M. PUBLIC COMMENT Audrey Ostrowsky, P.O. Box 351, questioned why Tax Increment Financing TI F) is not used for street and sewer improvements in the Cove, and why City funds are given to the La Quinta Arts Foundation instead of helping the residents with their sewer hookups. She also questioned who allowed the date trees to be removed on Calle Tampico. PRESENTATIONS None BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 14 December 7, 1999 PUBLIC HEARINGS 1. PUBLIC HEARING ON THE VACATION OF EASEMENTS RESERVED OVER PORTIONS OF AVENUE 55, RANCHO LA QUINTA ROAD, PASEO DEL RANCHO, AND OTHER UNNAMED STREETS WITHIN THE GREG NORMAN GOLF COURSE STREET VACATION NO.99-040. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:06 p.m. Public Works Director Vogt reported that the proposed vacation is identical to the area previously vacated as Street Vacation 90-016, and that for unknown reasons an easement was retained over the entire previously-vacated area. The current vacation proposes to remove all easements reserved by Street Vacation 90-01 6. He advised that the easement is not needed, and that there are no street improvements within the proposed vacation area. The applicant and benefiting landowner is KSL Development Corporation. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:07 p.m. RESOLUTION NO.99-156 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, VACATING EASEMENTS RESERVED OVER PORTIONS OF AVENUE 55, RANCHO LA QUINTA ROAD, PASEO DEL RANCHO, AND OTHER UNNAMED STREETS WITHIN THE GREG NORMAN GOLF COURSE STREET VACATION CASE NO.99-040. It was moved by Council Members Adolph/Perkins to adopt Resolution No. 99-1 56 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. 2. PUBLIC HEARING ON TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 23773 EXTENSION NO.2) FOR A ONE-YEAR TIME EXTENSION TO SUBDIVIDE 20.95 ACRES INTO 77 SINGLE-FAMILY LOTS AND PRIVATE STREETS LOCATED WEST OF ADAMS STREET AND NORTH OF AURORA WAY IN STARLIGHT DUNES. APPLICANT: CENTURY CROWELL COMMUNITIES. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:08 p.m. There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City CIerk?s Department. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 1 5 December 7, 1 999 In response to Council Member Henderson, Community Development Director Herman advised that Orion Way has been changed to Pisces Way, and Morningstar Way has been changed to Morningstar Court. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman stated that one more extension can be applied for. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:08 p.m. RESOLUTION NO.99-157 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING A ONE-YEAR TIME EXTENSION NO.2) FOR PHASES 4-7 OF TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 23773 CONSISTING OF 77 SINGLE- FAMILY LOTS ON 20.95 ACRES LOCATED 250 FEET WEST OF ADAMS STREET AND 110 FEET NORTH OF FRED WARING DRIVE CENTURY CROWELL COMMUNITIES). It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to adopt Resolution No. 99-1 57 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. 3. PUBLIC HEARING ON TENTATIVE TRACT 29147, REVISION NO. 1, TO INCREASE THE NUMBER OF SINGLE-FAMILY LOTS FROM 133 TO 152 ON 172.88 ACRES WITHIN SPECIFIC PLANS 83-002 AND 90-017. APPLICANT: KSL LAND CORPORATION. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:09 p.m. Community Development Director Herman reported that the revised map increases the number of single-family lots from 1 33 to 1 52, adds other common lots, and removes a private street lot. The Planning Commission has recommended approval subject to findings and conditions. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman said that free-standing homes are proposed to be built on the smaller size lots, and that street drainage will go into the lakes on the golf course. Chris Berg, 79-799 Old Avenue 52, of MDS Consulting, advised the developer is in agreement with the conditions of approval. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 1 6 December 7, 1 999 There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSEDat7:11 pm. RESOLUTION NO.99-158 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA, CALIFORNIA, APPROVING AN INCREASE IN THE NUMBER OF SINGLE-FAMILY LOTS FROM 133 TO 152, ADD OTHER COMMON LOTS, AND REMOVE A PRIVATE STREET LOT, ON 172.88 ACRES LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF MADISON STREET AND AVENUE 58 REVISED TENTATIVE TRACT MAP 29147 KSL LAND CORPORATION). It was moved by Council Members Henderson/Sniff to adopt Resolution No. 99-158 as submitted. Motion carried unanimously. 4. PUBLIC HEARING ON TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP 29288 AND SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT 99-655 TO CONSIDER AN APPEAL OF THE PLANNING COMMlSSION?S DECISION ON CONDITION NO. 53 OF THE SITE DEVELOPMENT PERMIT AND CONDITION NO.37 OF THE TENTATIVE PARCEL MAP REQUIRING THE UNDERGROUNDING OF UTILITIES FOR THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHEAST CORNER OF ADAMS STREET AND MILES AVENUE. APPELLANT: MARK AND DOROTHY HASTINGS. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:13p.m. Community Development Director Herman advised this is an appeal of Condition No. 37 of Tentative Parcel Map 29288 and Condition No. 53 of Site Development Permit 99-655, which require the undergrounding of overhead utility lines. He stated that the appeal request conflicts with General Plan Policy No.7.1.4.3 and Municipal Code Chapter 8.03- Electrical Code, which requires undergrounding of overhead utility lines for aesthetic and safety concerns. Mark Hastings, 2300 E. Racquet Club Drive, Palm Springs, appellant and developer of First School of the Desert, stated the requirement to underground utilities is jeopardizing the project, and that the cost is $80,000 to $100,000. The intent of the undergrounding policy is for aesthetic and safety reasons, however, the only change in this situation will be the elimination of eight distribution lines for a span of 600 feet; the power poles will remain because they carry high-voltage transmission lines. In addition, the properties to the immediate north and south have power poles and will continue to have them because the properties are fully developed. The aesthetic purpose, therefore, will not be accomplished and according to an lID representative, the system will BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 1 7 December 7, 1 999 be flawed because of the splices necessary to underground the lines. He proposed leaving the lines as they are until the City and lID are able to underground all of the lines and assess the costs to the property owners at that time according to their vested interest. Michael Hume, Project Manager for Rancho La Quinta Country Club, spoke in support of the appeal, and advised they have a similar situation along part of Avenue 50 and along Avenue 48 between Adams Street and Jefferson Street. The cost quoted to them by lID is $1,150,000. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:21 p.m. In response to Council Member Adolph, Mr. Herman confirmed the Lucky's Shopping Center at Avenue 50 and Jefferson Street has been conditioned to underground their low voltage lines. Council Member Sniff questioned the purpose of the condition if it does not solve the aesthetics problem, and advised he favors approval of the appeal. Council Member Henderson noted that this is not the first misunderstanding with lID on the City's undergrounding requirement. Mayor Pena felt somewhat compelled to vote in support of the appeal, but wished to continue this item for two weeks to allow him time to view the site. Council Member Adolph advised he has always supported undergrounding of utilities but believed this is a unique situation and suggested the possibility of conditioning the project with an assessment should lID at some point agree to underground all of the lines. City Attorney Honeywell advised that an assessment district is feasible and there is a waiver permitted in the electrical section of the Municipal Code that might fit this situation. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to continue the appeal by Mark and Dorothy Hastings regarding the undergrounding of utilities in Tentative Parcel Map 29288) to December21, 1999. Council Member Henderson pointed out this is a standard condition and it was not specifically addressed by the Planning Commission during their review of this project. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-168. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 18 December 7, 1 999 Council recessed to the meeting of the Redevelopment Agency. JOINT PUBLIC HEARING WITH THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY 5. JOINT PUBLIC HEARING BETWEEN THE CITY COUNCIL AND THE REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY TO APPROVE AN AGREEMENT TO SELL REAL PROPERTY LOCATED AT 52-365 AVENIDA MARTINEZ BY AND BETWEEN MARY MCCRUMB AND THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY AND AUTHORIZATION FOR THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR TO EXECUTE THE NECESSARY DOCUMENTS. The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN at 7:45 p.m. There were no changes to the staff report as submitted and on file in the City Clerk's Department. There being no requests to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED at 7:45 p.m. MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Henderson to approve the sale of Agency property located at 52-365 Avenida Martinez to maintain an affordable housing unit in Redevelopment Project Area No. 1 for a purchase price of $85,000. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.99-169. REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS All reports were noted and filed. DEPARTMENT REPORTS A-i. RESPONSE(S) TO PUBLIC COMMENT SEWER IMPROVEMENTS). In response to Mayor Pena, City Manager Genovese advised the Agency paid for street improvements in the Cove and the property owners were assessed for the sewer improvements. Mayor Pena asked that that information be forwarded to Ms. Ostrowsky. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 1 9 December 7, 1 999 A-2. MARKETING PROGRAM STATUS REPORT. Assistant City Manager Weiss advised the La Quinta Chamber of Commerce has suggested the City redirect funds allocated for street decorations and use them for a direct mail program wherein a promotional video would be mailed to corporate executives. The Shop/Dine Program should be implemented in the near future. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Weiss said the 10 and 30-second commercials will be televised again starting in January through March. Council Member Henderson suggested making extra copies of the video and having them available at the Chamber of Commerce. In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Weiss outlined the intent in mailing the videos to development areas with homes priced over $1 million is to reach out to influential corporate executives. Approximately 930 videos will be mailed to developments in Indian Wells, Palm Desert, and La Quinta. Council Member Henderson was uncomfortable with this program, noting that some residents might be upset if they don?t receive a video and others do. Council Member Sniff commented on the cost, and felt it might be better to mail the videos to non-residents. Council Member Henderson suggested limiting the mailings to La Quinta to start with. Mr. Weiss noted extra copies could be made available, at no charge, in case someone complains about not receiving one. Mayor Pena recommended making them available for checkout at the video stores. E-1. REPORT ON THE COST AND CITY REGULATIONS REGARDING A POTENTIAL ELECTRONIC READER BOARD. Community Development Director Herman reported that the Municipal Code allows reader boards and staff has identified a cost range of $40,000-$69,382. Council Member Sniff felt it could have significant value to the City, and wished to see it considered for the next budget. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 20 December 7, 1 999 Council Member Perkins felt it's premature, and suggested waiting until the Civic Center Campus is completed. Council Member Adolph was opposed to having flashing signs on the Civic Center Campus. Council Member Henderson agreed that it's premature, and was concerned if the intent is to get the message out to the community, it will not benefit the residents who live on the north side of Highway 111. Council concurred to table this issue to an indefinite date. MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS 1. DISCUSSION REGARDING THE CITY ENTRANCE MONUMENT SIGN. Council Member Adolph advised he has heard comments from residents about the colors in the logo of the new City entrance monument sign being too bright. City Manager Genovese advised the colors can be changed if that is the consensus of the Council. The Public Works Department is working with the contractor regarding the size and location of the quail, lack of palm trees in the logo, size of City of," and lighting on the fountain. Council Member Henderson noted there is no lighting on the logo and Public Works Director Vogt advised that the lighting is scheduled for installation. Council Member Henderson noted that there's also a shadow problem during certain hours, making it difficult to read the text of the sign Council concurred to tone down the colors in the logo, increase the letters for City of," and enhance the lighting on the fountain. 2. DISCUSSION REGARDING STAFFING DURING Y2K. Council Member Sniff suggested having two or three staff members on duty New Years Eve and New Years Day in case residents cannot get through by phone to 911. Council Member Perkins felt it would be good public relations to have staff available to reassure residents who might call. BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02 ing -> 10_SCity Council Minutes 21 December 7, 1999 City Manager Genovese advised a large number of law enforcement officers will be on duty that weekend and all Department Directors are on call with expected response times of 5-10 minutes. After a brief discussion, Mr. Genovese said staff will come back with a department report on December 21 regarding this issue. There being no further business, it was moved by Council Members Sniff/Adolph to adjourn. Motion carried unanimously. Respectfully submitted, JUNE S. GREEK, City Clerk City of La Quinta, California BIB] 01-03-2000-U01 11:44:15AM-U01 ADMIN-U01 CCMIN-U02 12-U02 07-U02 1999-U02