1994 12 06 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
December 6, 1994
Regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council on December 6, 1994 was called to order at the
hour of 3:00 p.m. by Mayor Pena, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance.
PRESENT: Council Members Bangerter, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
ABSENT: Council Member McCartney
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Perkins/Bangerter to excuse Council Member
McCartney. Motion carried unanimously.
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, requested that Business Item No. 4 be continued until the
December 20 meeting to allow staff time to review submitted information and the applicant time
to provide further required, updated information.
Mr. Genovese advised that Closed Session Item No.3 should be changed from two to seven
cases.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to remove Business Item No.
4 and to amend Closed Session Item No. 3, from two to seven cases. Motion carried
unanimously.
APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to approve the City Council
Minutes of November 15, 1994 and November 17, 1994 as submitted. Motion carried
unanimously.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Mrs. Juhola, Administrative Services Director, announced that La Quinta's Senior Center
dedication and Holiday Open House will be held on Thursday, December 15th, at 11:00a.m.
PRESENTATIONS
Mayor Pena presented John Freeland, Senior Engineer, with a plaque expressing the City's
appreciation for being chosen Employee of the Month for the month of November.
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Mayor Pena presented Pam Stull, Secretary II, with a plaque expressing the City's appreciation
for being chosen Employee of the Month for the month of December.
Ms. Barbara Cousins, representative of Riverside County Library in La Quinta, presented
Council with a thank-you card on behalf of the children of La Quinta for the books made
available through the Community Services Grant.
Ms. Carolyn Lair, executive director of the La Quinta Arts Foundation, presented a report of
the Fine Crafts, Wine and All That Jazz event held November 11-13 that attracted approximately
12,000 people. The children's programs were very popular. She invited the Council to the
Foundation's Christmas Open House on December 16 from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. and presented a
Fine Crafts, Wine and All That Jazz poster to the City.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. Susan Francis, advised that the event's name was
selected at a committee meeting in the summer of 91 Out of a desire to have a name that
encompassed all three elements of the event.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Mr. Robert Tyler, 44-215 Villeta Drive, thanked the Council for the recent pool survey. He
felt it's an excellent method to solicit input from the community and suggested the same process
be used for the auto-mall project since most of the discussions concerning that issue have
transpired during closed session and not much information is available to the public.
He also suggested installation of additional bulletin boards in the northern area of the City and
the PGA West area for posting of official City notices for broader public notification.
Council Member Sniff advised that the Council previously discussed the possibility of installing
additional bulletin boards to keep the residents informed and suggested that staff investigate
proposed sites.
Mayor Pena concurred and advised that there will be an update on the auto mall at the Indio
Mayor's Breakfast.
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WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
a. LETTER FROM MICHAEL MCCARTNEY RESIGNING FROM THE CITY
COUNCIL EFFECTIVE JANUARY 3, 1995.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to receive and file
Council Member McCartney's resigna?ion letter dated November 15, 1994. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-257.
Mayor Pena asked he City Clerk to present the Council with the available options for
filling the vacancy at the next meeting.
BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF RESOLUTION ACCEIII'ING A LA QUINTA MIDDLE
SCHOOL DONATION FROM MAKE-A-DIFFERENCE DAY FOR THE HIGH
ADVENTURE PROGRAM.
Mr. Bohlen, Parks & Recreation Director, advised that some La Quinta Middle School
students participated in a walk-a-thon during Make-A-Difference Day? and they are
donating $394 from the raised funds to the Parks & Recreation Department's High
Adventure Program. He introduced the class teacher, Ms. Reasor.
Ms. Reasor. sixth-grade teacher at La Quinta Middle School, presented Council with a
check for $394. She advised that national Make-A-Difference Day? was held on
October 22nd, and 26 students in her class participated in the event. She introduced two
of the participating students who were top walkers, Chelsey Brewer and Albert Holguin.
RESOLUTION NO.94-74
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ACCEIII'ING GIFT OF FUNDS TO SUBSIDIZE YOUTH
PARTICIPATION IN THE HIGH ADVENTURE PROGRAM.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Resolution No.94-74 as
submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
2. CONSIDERATION OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS COMMISSION REVIEW OF LA
QUINTA ARTS FOUNDATION'S MONTEZUMA-SITE PROPOSAL.
Mr. Bohien, Parks & Recreation Director, advised that on October 18, 1994, the Council
referred a proposal by the La Quinta Arts Foundation for locating an art and cultural
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center on Avenida Montezuma to the Cultural Affairs Commission CAC) for review.
The CAC recommends that the Arts Foundation be allowed to proceed with their concept
for a center for the arts at the Avenida Montezuma site, with the Arts Foundation acting
as the lead agency and the City of La Quinta as a partner.
In response to Mayor Pen?a, Mr. Bohien advised that the CAC did not indicate who
should purchase the additional five lots for the theater annex.
Council Member Perkins felt that the theater should be large enough to accommodate
usage by all the City's cultural arts organizations. He liked the location, but wasn't sure
it was large enough.
Mayor Pena expressed concern that all organizations have access to the center. He
believed that could be a concern if the Arts Foundation is going to lund the project.
Council Member Sniff believed that a 500-seat theater is appropriate and the Montezuma
site should be sufficient if a two-story building is constructed. He filly supported the
concept and believed it should move forward with deliberate dispatch. He didn't believe
there is any cause to think that any organization would be excluded from use of the
center just because the Arts Foundation acts as the lead agency. He felt that the City's
only contribution to the center should be a long-term lease.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to receive and file a
recommendation of the Cultural Affairs Commission and further direct appropriate City
staff to continue negotiations with the La Quinta Arts Foundation on their proposal.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-258.
3. CONSIDERATION OF RECOMMENDATION OF CULTURAL AFFAIRS
COMMISSION REGARDING CHILDREN'S DISCOVERY MUSEUM'S REQUEST
FOR FUNDING PARTICIPATION.
Mr. Bohlen. Parks & Recreation Director, advised that on October 18, 1994, the Council
referred a letter from the Children's Discovery Museum to the Cultural Affairs
Commission CAC) for review. The Children's Museum had requested allocation of
$200 to subsidize an unlimited number of La Quinta residents wishing to view the
children's art exhibit at the museum entitled Discover My World." The exhibit begins
on December 10th and a specific viewing day for La Quinta residents may be designated
by the City. The CAC recommends that the $200 be allocated from the Council's
Special Contingency Fund.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to approve the lunding
request by the Children's Museum for $200 from the Special Contingency Fund, to
subsidize the La Quinta residents viewing of the Discover My World" art-by-children
exhibiton a day to be designated as La Quinta Day at the Museum."
In response to Council Member Bangerter, Mr. Bohlen advised that staff will work with
the museum staff to set a La Quinta viewing date, possibly in January.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-259.
4. CONSIDERATION OF REQUEST BY AIRTOUCH CELLULAR TO LOCATE A
MONOPOLE AT THE SPORTS COMPLEX.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the applicant has requested a continuance to
January 17, 1995.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to continue the request
by AirTouch Cellular to January 17, 1995. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE
ORDER NO.94-260.
5. CONSIDERATION OF SPECIAL ADVERTISING DEVICE 94-056 FOR
APPROVAL OF EIGHT 8) TEMPORARY FLAGPOLES FOR THE RANCHO
OCOTILLO PROJECT EAST OF ADAMS STREET AND SOUTH OF FRED
WARING DRIVE. APPLICANT: DENNIS CUNNINGHAM.
Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the applicant's request for
eight temporary flagpoles complies with the City's recently-adopted policy.
Mr. Robert Tyler, 44-215 Villeta Drive, asked if the request for eight flags will be in
addition to the existing nine flags. He expressed dissatisfaction with the number of off-
site directional signs erected by Century Homes and asked if they have permits for all
of them.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Herman advised that the applicant's existing flags have
expired and will be taken down; if approved, the requested eight flags are all that will
remain. He advised that off-site directional signs are permitted during construction. The
one at the corner of Fred Waring Drive and Adams Street and one at the Rancho Ocotillo
project entrance are permitted as well as the one at Topaz.
Council Member Perkins felt that signs are being erected without permits and requested
staff to investigate the number of off-site directional signs.
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In response to Council Member Perkins. Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that any
temporary flags approved prior to the City's new policy will have the length of time they
were granted when approved. Century Homes is not allowed to erect the additional eight
flags until the previous flags are removed.
Council Member Perkins requested code enforcement staff to investigate the number of
flags along Miles Avenue and Washington Street to find out if any unpermitted flags are
there.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that staff reviews these regularly and citations are
issued for illegal signs and flags.
In response to Mayor Pena, Ms. Honeywell advised that there is a legal process to follow
before the City can remove unpermitted signs.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Hartung, Building & Safety Director, advised that the
City imposes a storage fee when they remove signs.
Mayor Peija suggested that the City consider charging a punitive fine as well.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to approve Special
Advertising Device 94-056 permitting eight temporary flagpoles for the Rancho Ocotillo
project subject to findings and conditions of approval. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTE ORDER NO.94-261.
6. CONSIDERATION OF A FIRST, TIME EXTENSION FOR PUBLIC-USE PERMIT
93-015 TO ATTACH ANTENNA EQUIPMENT TO AN EXISTING TOWER FOR
CELLULAR TELEPHONE COMMUNICATIONS AND TO CONSTRUCT A 484-
SQUARE FOOT EQUIPMENT STRUCTURE LOCATED AT THE I.I.D.
SUBSTATION AT 81-600 AVENUE 58. APPLICANT: AIRTOUCH.
Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that Public-Use Permit 93-015
was approved on September 21, 1993 for one year and subject to two additional one-year
time extensions. The request is for the first, one-year time extension and staff
recommended approval, subject to the original findings and conditions.
Council Member Sniff asked what caused the delay in the project.
Mr. Hardy Strozier, representative of AirTouch Cellular, responded that the delay was
due to lease negotiations with the District, but advised that the lease is now signed and
they are ready to request building permits from the City.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to approve Public-Use
Permit 93-015 Time-Extension No. I, subject to conditions of approval. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-262.
7. CONSIDERATION OF ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE
REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT
PROJECT AREA #1) IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 33333.6 OF THE
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT LAW.
Ms. Honeywell. City Attorney, advised that AB 1290 states that there must be an overall
effective date-limit, not more than 40 years from the date of the adoption of the original
plan, and no debt to be incurred from 20 years from the original date of adoption of he
plan. Both redevelopment plans have earlier expiration dates so there is no change in the
effective date of the plan: however, it does impose an earlier limit for incurring debt than
originally stated in the plans.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to take up Ordinance
No. 25? by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.258
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE LA
QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA NO.1 IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 33333.6 OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT LAW.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to introduce Ordinance No.258 on
first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bangerter, Perkins. Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Council Member McCartney
8. ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN
FOR THE LA QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA #2) IN
ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 33333.6 OF THE COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT LAW.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to take up Ordinance
No. 259 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.259
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE REDEVELOPMENT PLAN FOR THE LA
QUINTA REDEVELOPMENT PROJECT AREA NO.2 IN ACCORDANCE WITH
SECTION 33333.6 OF THE COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT LAW.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to introduce Ordinance No.259 on
first reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bangerter, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Council Member McCartney
9. CONSIDERATION OF A WORKING COMMITTEE FOR THE SUBDIVISION
ORDINANCE REVISION PROJECT.
Mr. Cosper, Public Works Director, advised that on November 15, 1994, Council
discussed the possibility of establishing a working committee for the formulation of the
subdivision ordinance. The Planning Commission has submitted their recommendations
for inclusion on the committee. He asked Council to direct staff in the remaining
appointments to the committee.
Mayor Pena suggested adding Chris Clarke as well as some general-contractors.
Council Member Sniff preferred Alternative 3 of the staff report in which all names On
the list will be invited.
Mayor Pen-a suggested that everyone on the list be invited to a scoping meeting.
Mr. Cosper advised that staff's intention with Alternative No. 3 is to conduct two
scoping meetings. The purpose of the first meeting will be to obtain input from those
in attendance, and a draft will be submitted for review at a second meeting a few months
later. A staff report will then be prepared for Council, noting which suggestions could
be incorporated and which ones could not.
Mayor Pena suggested the Chamber of Commerce be contacted to gain names from their
network.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to recommend
Alternative No.3 to staff, including the suggestions from Council, and direct them to
proceed. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-263.
10. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF SPECIFICATIONS FOR CITYWIDE
STREET-PAINTING PROGRAM AND AUTHORIZE STAFF TO RECEIVE BIDS.
Mr. Cosper, Public Works Director, advised that staff is requesting authorization to
receive bids for restriping, primarily, the City's arterial and major collector streets. This
is the initial program for the overall street-maintenance program scheduled to be
presented to Council in March, 1995, but work will not begin until July, 1995 when
funding is available. The purpose in receiving bids in January is to expedite the process
in July, 1995 because the striping in the streets is fading and could pose a liability to the
City. He advised that staff prepared the drawings and most of the engineering on this
project, noting it is one of the first projects to be done in-house. The engineer's estimate
for the project is $22,000.
Council Member Perkins asked if staff has considered contracting with neighboring cities
in this project.
Mr. Cosper advised that the City of Indio was contacted, but they have not responded.
Part of La Quinta's street-maintenance program next year will be to look at costs to
purchase maintenance equipment with which the City's maintenance staff could handle
some street repairs in-house and possibly include neighboring cities.
In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Cosper advised that staff received bid specifications
from the City of Palm Desert and he assumes they also put their street maintenance out
to bid. La Quinta's maintenance staff did do the City's street-legend painting stop signs,
arrows, and cross bars) this year.
Mayor Pena suggested that these kind of costs could be discussed at CVAG for regional
cooperation.
Mr. Cosper advised that staff is trying to secure the use of Indio's patch truck to do
localized patching and crack sealing.
Council Member Sniff felt that private enterprise may be able to do the work less-
expensively than the City, but was not opposed to exploring the idea of handling the
work in-house.
Council Member Perkins advised that he totally supports private enterprise, but believed
the Council is responsible for finding the most cost-effective means to handle City
projects. Perhaps by sharing equipment and costs with neighboring cities, the City's cost
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could be reduced. Private enterprise should not be supported at the expense of
taxpayers.
In response to Council Member Bangerter, Mr. Cosper advised that the intent of the
proposed bid specification is to Contract with a contractor to completely finish the
project. During the street-maintenance program next year, staff will identify which of
the street-maintenance activities will be most cost-effectively done in-house. Slurry
sealing and the proposed street-striping is typically done more cost-effectively through
a bid process, especially if cities join together in the bid effort, because the larger?the bid
the more economical it is.
Council Member Perkins expressed concern that the left-hand-turn lanes are too short and
asked Mr. Cosper to take that into consideration when restriping the streets.
Mr. Cosper advised that he is addressing that issue.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to approve specifications
for citywide street-painting program and authorize staff to receive bids. Motion carried
unammously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-264.
11. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO THE MUNICIPAL CODE ADOFFING
REGULATIONS PERTAINING TO FALSE ACTIVATIONS OF FIRE ALARMS.
Mr. Hartung, Building & Safety Director, advised that the ordinance will establish a false
fire-alarm fee and provide a financial incentive for fire-alarm users to make sure their
fire-alarm system is operating effectively.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Hartung advised that the false alarms are
from automatic systems. They are monitored by a Station which then calls the fire
station.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to take up Ordinance
No. 260 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.260
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTION 11.92 OF THE MUNICIPAL CODE
REGULATING FALSE ACTIVATION OF FIRE ALARMS.
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It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Ordinance No. 260 on first
reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bangerter, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Council Member Mccartney
RESOLUTION NO.94-75
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA ESTABLISHING SERVICE FEES FOR EXCESSIVE FALSE
ACTIVATIONS OF FIRE ALARMS.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Resolution No.94-75 as
submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
12. CONSIDERATION OF AMENDMENT TO CHAPTER 2.60 OF THE MUNICIPAL
CODE RELATIVE TO CONFLICTS OF INTEREST.
Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that the City is adopting the State Code by
reference, so that any changes made by the State will automatically be included.
Included also are amendments in the designated employees, primarily due to title
changes.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to take up Ordinance
No. 261 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.261
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTION 2.60 OF THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL
CODE THE CITY'S CONFLICT OF INTEREST CODE.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Ordinance No.261 on first
reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bangerter, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Council Member McCartney
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13. TRANSMITTAL OF TREASURER'S REPORT DATED OCTOBER31, 1994 FOR
THE CITY OF LA QUINTA AND THE LA QUINTA FINANCING AUTHORITY.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to receive and file the
Treasurer's Report dated October 31, 1994 for the City of La Quinta.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Mr. Genovese, City Manager, explained that
*?pooled investments' are funds that are pooled with other agencies in a statewide pool,
such as the LAIF fund. They have their investment advisors who make investments
based on certain parameters and are aware of the investment guidelines of each city.
In response to Council Member Perkins, Ms. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that
Redevelopment Agency funds can be included in these pooled" funds.
Council Member Perkins asked if Redevelopment Agency funds and CiLy ftinds are in
separate accounts. He understood that the funds are not to be commingled.
Ms. Honeywell advised that they are in a separate account in the sense that the
accounting department keeps track of what the amounts are.
Mr. Genovese advised that the funds are not commingled as it relates to accounting
standards. but they are as far as cash is concerned. At LAIF the City maintains two
separate accounts for pooled" investments for two reasons; it's easier to separate
investments and the LAIF only allows a maximum of $15 million per account. The two
accounts allow a total of $30 million in investments.
Council Member Perkins stated he gets concerned about commingling City and
Redevelopment Agency funds. He asked if City and Redevelopment Agency funds would
be commingled in a Certificate of Deposit.
Mr. Genovese advised that the accounting department tracks the funds separately, but
they could be commingled in the same bank account. Commingled lunds in a pooled
bank account could conceivably be used to invest in a Certificate of Deposit. but not the
commingled funds in LAIF.
Council Member Perkins reiterated that he is uncomfortable with these funds being
commingled.
Mayor Pena suggested having the City's consultant review the concept and possible
problems involved and report to the Council.
Mr. Genovese advised that the City could seek the auditor's opinion since the audit is
currently being completed.
Council concurred.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-265.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to receive and file the
Treasurer's Report dated October 31, 1994 for the La Quinta Financing Authority.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-266.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER DATED DECEMBER 6, 1994.
2. APPROVAL OF FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT
AGREEMENT FOR TRACT 23935-5, TOPAZ.
3. APPROVAL OF FINAL MAP AND SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENT
AGREEMENT AND ACCEPTANCE OF TEMPORARY DRAINAGE EASEMENT
FOR TRACT 26188, TOPAZ.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to approve the Consent
Calendar as recommended. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO.94-
267.
STUDY SESSION None
REPORTS AND INFORMATIONAL ITEMS
All reports were noted and filed.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that Be?y Williams of Williams
Development, plans a ground-breaking ceremony on January 5. 1995 at 10:30 a.m. for the
affordable-housing project.
All other reports were noted and filed.
MAYOR AND COUNCIL MEMBERS' ITEMS
1. DISCUSSION OF FRITZ BURNS PARK POOL PROJECT SURVEY.
Mayor Pei?a abstained due to a conflict of interest and left the dais.
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Council Member Perkins, said he was beginning to understand why the pool survey was
not returned to the Council for review. He didn't agree with a council member's
comment at the last meeting that there was a time-crunch involved with awarding the bid,
because he doesn't believe it has to be dealt with as rapidly as some prefer. He referred
again to Council's comments at the last meeting about having confidence in the Parks &
Recreation staff, but wasn't sure he has the faith necessary, because the survey didn't ask
the residents if they want a pool, or are willing to pay for a pool and the maintenance
costs involved. He questioned mailing the survey to postal patron" because he knows
of five people who didn't receive a questionnaire. He also noted that the survey reported
the cost of the pool at $1.8 million, which differs from the $2.1 million estimated by the
engineers.
He advised that the survey states that the City will need to recoup 50% of the operation
costs through user fees which will necessitate 400 users daily. He advised that another
comment by a council member at the last meeting was that the proposed funding sources
must be used for a pool, but he hasn't seen any documentation to that effect and believed
the funds can be used for recreation and/or a pool. He felt that the Palm Royale Park
has been delayed because of a lack of funds and these funds could be diverted to that
project.
He referred to the Minutes of the Parks & Recreation Commission in which Council
Member Sniff advised that the Fritz Burns pool is not a done deal..there are concerns
regarding financing the project and the operational cost of the pool," but the survey states
that the City is" going to have a pool. He felt that the questionnaire is one-sided and
wondered how many residents failed to receive one. He didn't have much faith in the
questionnaire because the proper questions weren't asked. He was disappointed in the
staff for the questionnaire they developed and disappointed in the Council for not wishing
to review the questionnaire before it was mailed.
In response to Council Member Bangerter. Mr. Bohlen advised that the postal patron"
mailing-method was selected through discussions with the post office after advising them
that the City wanted every resident to receive a survey. He felt that staff fulfilled their
responsibility as directed by Council.
Council Member Bangerter felt that the post office is responsible for any undelivered
surveys, not staff. She believed that when Council directs staff to do something, the
Council owns it and she felt the survey was excellent. She advised that the purpose in
directing staff to mail the survey without Council's review was because of the timecrunch
and added that the survey is currently being tabulated.
Council Member Sniff felt the survey is what the Council requested and believed that
staff did a good job. The best the City can expect from this type of survey is a
significant sample from the coinmunity, noting a 100%-response was never expected.
He felt that staff is not responsible for the post office's failure to distribute the survey
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to every resident, but understood that over 800 responses were received. He advised that
the pool is not a done deal until the bids are acted upon. This project has been discussed
for many years with the community strongly indicating that they want an aquatic center
in this area of the City. He referred to a letter from Mr. Vossler that indicates the $1
million donation to the City is for an aquatic center. He believed that there are many
people in the community who believe that the pool facility is an important asset to the
City. He commented that there is no such thing as a perfect decision, but rather the best
decision that can be made, based on the bids. He advised that bids have been received
with a low of approximately $1.8 million, the estimated cost identified on the survey.
He asked staff when consideration of awarding the bid is scheduled to come before the
Council.
Mr. Genovese, City Manager, advised that the bids will be on the agenda for
consideration by Council on December 20th.
2. DISCUSSION REGARDING USE OF THE SENIOR CENTER.
Mayor Pena asked if Council had any objection to use of the Senior Center facilities
for a continental breakfast for a presentation on Peacebuilders? on December 16th from
8:00 to 9:30 a.m., noting a facility-use policy hasn't yet been established for the Center.
Council Member Perkins felt that Council should consider a Senior Center facility-use
policy and expressed concern regarding the responsibility for cleaning up after events.
He believed that the City's facilities should be used by civic groups whenever possible.
Mayor Pena advised that the caterer will be responsible for cleaning after the breakfast.
Ms. Honeywell advised that some restrictions might apply to the use of the Senior Center
for non-senior activities because CDBG funds were used in its construction.
Mrs. Juhola, Administrative Services Director, advised that the law states that Senior
Center activities cannot be preempted for other uses and there are no senior activities
planned for that time.
Council concurred that there was no objection to use of the facilities for the breakfast.
Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency meeting.
Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session and until the hour or 7:00 p.m.
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CLOSED SESSION
1. Conference with real property negotiator pursuant to Government Code Section
54956.8 regarding negotiations for proposed commercial development, including
price, term of payment for property located at the southwest corner of Highway 111
and Jefferson Street Tim Ealey, negotiator for Midland Properties.
2. Conference with labor negotiator Torn Hartung regarding negotiations with the La
Quinta City Employees Association pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6-
Meet and Confer Process.
3 Conference with legal counsel concerning potential initiation of litigation pursuant
to Government Code Section 54956.9(C) seven cases.
7:00 P.M.
PUBLIC COMMENT None
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PLOT PLAN 93-495 REVISED) A REQUEST BY SIMON PLAZA, INC. TO
APPEAL THE PLANNING COMMISSION'S APPROVAL OF A ONE-YEAR,
EXTENSION OF TIME FOR A PREVIOUSLY-APPROVED PROJECT ON 5.6i
ACRES ON HIGHWAY 111, EAST OF WASHINGTON STREET.
Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that Council received numerous
correspondence regarding this issue. Included in the correspondence is a letter from
Pomona First Federal, owners of Parcel 6, stating they no longer want their parcel
included in this application. Parcel 6 encompasses the proposed corner restaurant at the
intersection of Washington Street and Highway 111. The applicant's one-year extension
request was approved by the Planning Commission on May 24, 1994, but seven of the
conditions of approval were amended. The applicant is appealing the amendments made
by the Planning Commission.
He advised Council of the following options relating to Pomona Federal Savings:
1. Deny the extension based upon the property depicted on the approved site plan
not being controlled by Simon Plaza and lack of applicant's response to Council
for requested information.
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2. Continue the request for time extension for four months, requesting the applicant
to redesign the site plan without Parcel 6 and resubmit their application to the
Planning Commission within three months.
Mr. Mark Moran, 52-385 Madero, development consultant for Simon Plaza, Inc.,
advised that the applicant is aware of the dispute with Pomona First Federal. The
applicant will accept Option No.2 to redesign the project or until such time as there is
a disposition on another project proposed to be presented to the City, with a possible
opportunity to purchase that parcel.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN.
Mr. Robert Tyler, 44-215 Villeta, referred to a public hearing notice regarding the
corner parcel and asked how that project is related to the Simon Plaza project.
Mayor Pena advised that the comer parcel in question is Parcel 6 referred to in the
Simon Plaza project and one option before Council is to continue the current request with
the exception of Parcel 6, thus requiring the applicant to redesign the project.
There being no one else wishing to speak, the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING
CLOSED.
Mayor Pena advised that Council received a fax from Pomona First Federal Just prior
to the meeting and that he supported Option No.2.
Council Member Sniff concurred believing it to be the most logical option.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to continue consideration
of a time-extension for the approved project for four months with the exception of Parcel
6 and redesign the site plan, excluding Parcel 6, and resubmit to the Planning
Commission for review and approval within three months. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTE ORDER NO.94-268.
2. ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 94-044 TO AMEND CHAPTER 9.145 OF
THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO HILLSIDE
CONSERVATION ZONE AND CHAPTER 9.146 RELATING TO TRANSFER OF
DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA.
Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the proposed amendments
as set forth in the staff report) are needed to allow the ability to transfer density credits
to individuals, as well as, to or between parcels of land. This will apply to the Hillside
Conservation Zone and the Transfer of Development Rights which will permit density
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transfers to all residential zones citywide. The Planning Commission recommended the
proposed amendments on November 8, 1994.
In response to Council Member Bangerter, Mr. Herman advised that when a property
owner wishes to transfer the development rights of the property to someone else, it will
be reviewed by the City.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. There being no one wishing to
speak, the Mayor declared he PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED.
RESOLUTION NO.94-76
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, CERTIFYING A NEGATIVE DECLARATION OF
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT FOR ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT 94-281
PREPARED FOR ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 94-044.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Resolution No.94-76 as
submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to take up Ordinance
No. 262 by title and number only and waive further reading. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO.262
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTER 9.145 AND 9.146 OF THE LA QUINTA
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO TRANSFER"ER OF DEVELOPMENT RIGHTS.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Perkins to adopt Ordinance No.262 on first
reading. Motion carried by the following vote:
AYES.. Council Members Bangerter, Perkins, Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: Council Member McCartney
3. ADOPTION OF A NONDISPOSAL FACILITY ELEMENT, MANDATED BY THE
STATE, WHICH IDENTIFIES EXISTING, EXPANSION OF EXISTING, AND
PROPOSED WASTE FACILITIES.
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Mr. Herman, Community Development Director, advised that the Nondisposal Facility
Element is mandated by the State relating to AB 939. The Element has been adopted by
all the cities in the valley and approved by CVAGs Executive Committee.
The Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING OPEN. There being no one wishing to
speak the Mayor declared the PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED.
RESOLUTION NO.94-77
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADOIII'ING THE NONDISPOSAL FACILITY ELEMENT.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bangerter to adopt Resolution No.94-77 as
submitted. Motion carried unanimously.
Council recessed to Redevelopment Agency.
Council reconvened and recessed to Closed Session as delineated on Page No.16.
Council reconvened with no action being taken.
There being no flirther business, the meeting was adjourned.
*>?SAUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
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