1991 10 21 CC Minutes LA QUINTA CITY COUNCIL
MINUTES
OCTOBER 21, 1991
Regular meeting of the La Quinta City Council was called to order
at the hour of 3:00 P.M., Mayor Pena presiding.
PRESENT: Council Members Bohnenberger, Franklin, Rushworth, Sniff,
Mayor Pena
ABSENT: None
CONFIRMATION OF AGENDA
Mr. Kiedrowski asked that Consent Item No. 21 be added which is
authorization for out-of-state travel and that Public Hearing Item
No. 7 be removed as everyone has paid; Council Member Sniff asked
that Consent Item 21 be placed on the Business Session Agenda;
Council Member Bohnenberger asked that Consent Item 11 be placed on
the Business Session Agenda; and Council Member Franklin asked that
Consent Item 17 be placed on the Business Session Agenda.
Council concurred on moving Consent 11 to Business 7; Consent 17 to
Business 8; and Consent 21 to Business 9.
ANNOUNCEMENTS None
WRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE
a. Letter from the City of Indio regarding blinder racks".
Council Member Franklin felt that the City needs to consider
a similar ordinance and Ms. Honeywell advised that she is
looking into it along with the matter of removing the
newspaper racks in front of the Post Office in terms of first
amendment issues.
Council Member Sniff advised that he has submitted a number of
comments to the City Attorney.
b. Letter from La Quinta Chamber of Commerce requesting waiver of
all City fees applicable to the 6th Annual La Quinta Gem of
the Desert 10k Run/2 Mile Walk to be held on December 8, 1991.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Franklin that
all City fees be waived for the Chamber's 10k Run/2 Mile Walk.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-153.
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BUSINESS SESSION
1. CONSIDERATION OF ACQUISITION OF LOT 190, DESERT CLUB TRACT
UNIT NO. 5.
Council Member Bohnenberger advised that he would be
abstaining from this issue due to its proximity to his home.
Mr. Reynolds advised that in order to construct the frontage
road parallel to Washington Street between Avenida La Fonda
and Avenida Nuestra, it's necessary to acquire a sliver of
land less than 1,000 sq. ft. from Lot 190. The property
owners were unwilling to dedicate or sell the needed land, but
have offered to sell the entire lot to the City for $60,000,
which he felt is fair and reasonable.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Reynolds advised that
there will be 11,000 sq. ft. remaining on this lot which is
very saleable and buildable.
RESOLUTION NO. 91-75
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA
APPROVING THE ACQUISITION OF CERTAIN REAL PROPERTY.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Rushworth that
Resolution No. 91-75 be adopted. Motion carried with Council
Member Bohnenberger abstaining.
2. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION TO JOIN RIVERSIDE COUNTY AND
OTHER AGENCIES AS CO-PERMITTEE FOR NPDES NATIONAL POLLUTION
DISCHARGE ELIMINATION SYSTEM) PERMIT.
Mr. Reynolds advised that the Environmental Protection Agency
has established storm water discharge regulations designated
as the NPDES.
The California Regional Water Quality Control Board has
determined that a NPDES permit must be obtained for drainage
systems discharging into the Whitewater River Basin. A permit
application must be submitted no later than May 18, 1992.
They have asked that local authorities consolidate with
Riverside County as co-permittees under a single NPDES permit.
One of the advantages is that the $10,000 annual permit cost
will be pro-rated among the participating agencies and the
County will shoulder the bulk of the application process.
Council Member Bohnenberger advised that the County is in the
process of forming a CSA Community Service Area) to put
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together a funding mechanism and asked if anything has
happened at the CVAG level to get them to include cities.
Mr. Kiedrowski advised that the Technical Advisory Committee
has proposed that the County not require the cities to join,
but that they amend their application to allow cities to join.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Sniff
that the City Manager be authorized to sign a declaration of
intent to co-permit with the County of Riverside for a
National Pollution Discharge Elimination System NPDES)
permit. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-
154.
3. CONSIDERATION OF APPROVAL OF GRANT APPLICATION SUBMITTED FOR
$10,000 FROM THE CALIFORNIA HEALTHY CITIES PROJECT.
Mr. Herman recommended that the Council authorize the filing
of a grant application through the California Smoke-Free
Cities Project in the amount of $10,000. The City would use
those funds to print a brochure, which will address tobacco
use and its health effects in general; the State and County's
efforts to control tobacco use; and a summary of the City's
regulations, which is currently in the draft stage.
Council Member Sniff felt that it's premature to submit an
application when the proposed ordinance has not been acted
upon.
Discussion ensued relative to the fact that an ordinance
regulating smoking in public places has not yet been adopted,
with Council concurring that staff should go forward with an
application following a telephone call to the proper State
Office to see if an application will be considered under these
circumstances.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Franklin
that staff be authorized to file a grant application from the
California Healthy Cities Project. Motion carried with
Council Member Sniff voting NO. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-155.
4. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENT WITH
TKD ASSOCIATES FOR DESIGN OF MEDIAN LANDSCAPING ON WASHINGTON
STREET.
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5. CONSIDERATION OF AUTHORIZATION TO ENTER INTO AGREEMENT WITH
TKD ASSOCIATES FOR DESIGN OF MEDIAN LANDSCAPING ON WASHINGTON
STREET.
Mr. Reynolds advised that this matter was continued from the
last meeting pending a plant palette from the consultant.
Tom Doczi, President of TKD Associates addressed the Council
advising that the Council has received a proposed plant list
which is divided into plant zone areas. He advised that on
Washington St., they are planning a gateway" type element
that will include a welcome sign in the median along the
frontage road along Highland Palms as set forth in the
Washington Street Specific Plan. He pointed out that this
would not be the main welcoming sign, since the City does
expand north of Highway 111. They are also attempting to
leave enough room to accommodate a future block wall in that
median. They are looking at shrubbery that will give a lush
appearance and at the same time, be drought-tolerant.
In response to Council Member Franklin, Mr. Doczi advised that
he uses a pre-emergent to kill any existing seeds that may
germinate.
Council Member Rushworth commented that when driving south on
Jefferson Street and you attempt a left turn into the golf
course, the view is obscured by the landscaping. Mr. Doczi
advised that he would look into it.
In response to Council Member Sniff, Mr. Doczi advised that
there is lighting on Eisenhower and Jefferson, adding that a
master lighting plan is being drafted by City staff.
Council Member Franklin understood that the plant palette
would be for use City-wide and not project-by-project and Mr.
Doczi advised that the final draft, which will be completed in
about a week will be for use City-wide.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members f/Rushworth that
the agreement with TKD for median landscaping on Washington
Street be approved in an amount not to exceed 12,800. Motion
carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-156.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Rushworth that
the agreement with TKD for median landscaping on Avenue 50 be
approved in an amount not to exceed $6,300. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-157.
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6. CONSIDERATION AND SELECTION OF CIVIC CENTER MANAGING
UNDERWRITER.
Mr. Kiedrowski advised that he and Mr. Genovese met in the
offices of Fieldman Rolapp last Friday and participated in
interviews for a managing underwriter for the Civic Center
bond issue. He recommended that the firm of Sutro & Co. be
selected at a rate of $6.95 per $1,000 of issuance.
Council Member Franklin asked if this action isn?t premature,
given that the Council hasn't decided if the structure is
going to be built and Mr. Kiedrowski advised that the
selection of this firm is based upon selling the bonds and
will be back to the City Council at the time the award of a
construction contract is before the Council. He noted that
the current budget assumes paying cash for the Civic Center
with the notation that bonding would be considered. A
decision cannot be made on bonds without knowing roughly, what
the price is and what kind of interest will be paid.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Sniff to
continue this matter to the evening session. Motion carried
unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-158.
7. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL ADVERTISING DEVICE 91-017 FOR TENTATIVE
TRACT 23935 SOUTHWEST CORNER OF MILES AND DUNE PALMS.
APPLICANT: GWR DEVELOPMENT.
Council Member Bohnenberger stated that he would prefer to see
this approval be for two months with a review for renewal at
that time rather than leaving it open-ended.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/sniff
that a special advertising device for Tentative Tract 23935 be
granted for two months. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE
ORDER NO. 91-159.
8. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENT FOR LEASE OF OFFICE SPACE LOCATED AT 78-
105 CALLE ESTADO FOR THE CITY HALL FACILITY ON A MONTH-TO-
MONTH BASIS.
Council Member Franklin stated that she would prefer to see a
one-year lease and then month-to-month.
Mr. Kiedrowski advised that staff will continue negotiations
with the landlord and re-agendize for the next meeting.
No action was taken.
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9. APPROVAL OF OUT-OF-STATE TRAVEL.
Council Member Sniff felt that going to New York to get the
City rated for a bond issue is pre-mature.
Mr. Kiedrowski advised that the City has never been rated and
that is the purpose of the meeting and to see if anyone will
underwrite. In all the past bond issues, it was the
Redevelopment Agency that sold bonds and was rated. The trip
will include the City's Financial Advisory; Bond Counsel,
himself; the Assistant City Manager; a Council Member and the
Managing Underwriter.
Council Member Bohnenberger expressed the importance of going
to New York to meet with the underwriters and insurers and
getting the City rated.
MOTION It was moved by Council Member Bohnenberger, seconded
by Mayor Pena that the out-of-state travel as reviewed be
approved. Motion carried with Council Member Sniff voting NO;
and Council Member Rushworth ABSTAINING. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-
160.
CONSENT CALENDAR
1. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF OCTOBER 1, 1991.
2. APPROVAL OF DEMAND REGISTER.
3. APPROVAL OF LETTER OF AFFIRMATION DESIGNATING ENVIRONMENTAL
HEALTH SERVICES DIVISION OF THE COUNTY'S HEALTH DEPARTMENT TO
BE LOCAL ENFORCEMENT AGENCY.
4. APPROVAL OF REDUCTION IN SECURITY FOR TRACT 22432-4 SUNRISE
AT PGA WEST.
5. APPROVAL OF BUDGET TRANSFER TO PROVIDE FUNDS FOR FINAL PAYMENT
TO CONTRACTOR OF PHASE II OF THE COVE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT
ASSESSMENT DISTRICT 89-2.
6. APPROVAL OF LANDOWNER'S OFFER TO CONVEY LAND TO CITY FOR USE
AS WASHINGTON STREET RIGHT-OF-WAY.
7. APPROVAL OF FINAL TRACT MAP 26769 AND RELATED SUBDIVISION
IMPROVEMENT AGREEMENT MONROE STREET SOUTH OF 52ND AVENUE.
APPLICANT: QUALICO DEVELOPMENT.
8. ACCEPTANCE OF SUBDIVISION IMPROVEMENTS TRACT 25237 SANTA
ROSA COVE. APPLICANT: OHIO CITIZEN'S INVESTMENT CORPORATION.
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9 APPROVAL OF SPECIAL ADVERTISING DEVICE 91-018 SEARCHLIGHT)
FOR OPENING BALL ON NOVEMBER 2, 1991. APPLICANT: LA QUINTA
COUNTRY CLUB.
10. APPROVAL OF SPECIAL ADVERTISING DEVICE 91-016 SEARCHLIGHT)
FOR 3RD ANNUAL HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL OCTOBER 31, 1991.
APPLICANT: LA QUINTA HOTEL.
11 CONSIDERED AS BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 7.
12. APPROVAL OF FIRST, ONE-YEAR TIME EXTENSION FOR TRACT 24890,
LOCATED IN AREA GENERALLY BOUNDED BY 52ND AVENUE ON SOUTH,
JEFFERSON STREET ON EAST, AND CALLE RONDO ON WEST, WITHIN OAK
TREE WEST SPECIFIC PLAN AREA. APPLICANT: J. M. PETERS CO.,
INC.
13. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ESTABLISHING TRAFFIC CONTROLS FOR THE
SKINS GAME.
14. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION URGING THE UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA
PRESIDENT AND REGENTS TO ESTABLISH A LAW SCHOOL AT THE
UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA AT RIVERSIDE.
15. ACCEPTANCE OF QUITCLAIM ACCESS EASEMENT RESERVED BY CITY IN
THE OLD ADAMS STREET RIGHT OF WAY THROUGH TRACT 25389-1, BROCK
HOMES.
16. ADOPTION OF RESOLUTION ACCEPTING DONATION FROM THE SUNRISE CO.
RELATING TO AIR/LODGING FOR A TOUR?WORKSHOP.
17. CONSIDERED AS BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 8.
18. APPROVAL OF CONTRACT CHANGE ORDER NO. 7 TO PHASE III OF THE
COVE IMPROVEMENT PROJECT.
19. REJECTION OF BIDS FOR PROJECT NO. 91-16 LANDSCAPE
MAINTENANCE SERVICES AND AUTHORIZATION TO RE-BID.
20. ACCEPTANCE OF GRANT OF EASEMENT FOR WASHINGTON STREET RIGHT OF
WAY ALTMAN.
21. CONSIDERED AS BUSINESS SESSION ITEM NO. 9.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Rushworth/
Bohnenberger that the Consent Calendar be approved as
recommended and as amended with Items 13, 14, 15, 16 & 21
being approved by RESOLUTION NOS. 91-76, 91-77, 91-78, 91-79,
and 91-80 respectively. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-161.
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PUBLIC COMMENT
AUDREY OSTROWSKI, P.O. Box, La Quinta, addressed the Council on the
matter of industrial type businesses operating out of the Cove.
Mr. Hartung, Building and Safety Director, advised that he would
investigate the charges and report back.
JUDY VOSSLER WOODARD, advised that she is Chairman of the CVB's
Hospitality Committee and plans to meet with each City Council once
each month to present a status report.
She then introduced Scott DeLasio, La Quinta Hotel Assistant
Manager and in charge of all the marketing efforts, who proceeded
to give the Council a status report.
STUDY SESSION
1. DISCUSSION OF DESERT VILLAS.
Dick Darling, Managing Partner presented the Council with
three different scenarios for funding of this project, which
is geared toward seniors either 55 and over or 60 and over,
which is yet to be determined.
In response to questions by Council, Mr. Darling advised that
33% of the project will be dedicated to low-moderate income
persons. Studies indicate that the market can absorb 50 units
per year.
In further response to questions by Council, Mr. Kiedrowski
advised that there is about $2 million in the low-mod set-
aside fund and $800,000 of it incumbered. He also pointed out
that there are other possible uses for those funds, which have
been discussed with Council. About $750,000 is put into this
fund each year. Mr. Darling advised that they plan to put up
$1.4 million on a $10 million budget, which he felt was
reasonable. Mr. Kiedrowski added that the $1.4 million is
representative of the cost of the land.
Mr. Mark Huebsch, City Attorney, recommended that since the
City is in the process of negotiating with this Developer,
that any further details be discussed in Closed Session.
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Council Member Bohnenberger suggested that the Council
consider this matter further in Closed Session and that the
two remaining Study Session Items be continued.
Mrs. Honeywell advised that the matter will be discussed in
Closed Session pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8.
PRESENTATIONS
The Mayor presented the La Quinta Beautiful Awards for the month of
September as follows:
Most Beautiful: Frank & Patricia Christal, 54-020 Villa
Most Improved: Ernest & Andrea Rodriquez, 54-840 Obregon
Jacquie Bethel presented the Council with red ribbons for City
Staff for Red Ribbon Week.
PUBLIC COMMENT
Dolly Dupree, 78-430 Cameo Place, advised that she has lived here
for 23 years and that the gutters in her neighborhood do not allow
for water to flow downhill and that she always has water sitting in
her driveway. She asked that consideration be given to installing
curbs and gutters in conjunction with the improvements currently
being made in her neighborhood.
Don Rector, 46-450 Cameo Palms Dr., spoke to the same issue adding
that the standing water becomes breeding areas for mosquitos and
other larvae carrying insects.
Joe Hernandez, 46-325 Cameo Palms Dr., also asked that curbs and
gutters be installed in the Highland Springs area.
Sayed Safavian, 46-800 Highland Palms Dr., also urged that curbs
and gutters be installed.
PUBLIC HEARINGS
1. PUBLIC USE PERMIT 91-010 APPEAL OF PLANNING COMMISSION
APPROVAL TO ALLOW THE CONSTRUCTION AND OPERATION OF A
PRESCHOOL/DAY CARE CENTER FOR 160 CHILDREN AT SOUTH OF
SAGEBRUSH AVENUE EXTENSION, EAST OF DATE PALM DR. APPLICANT:
MICHAEL & GLENDA BANGERTER. APPELLANT: JIM BATTIN, ET. AL.
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MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Franklin to
continue the public hearing on Public Use Permit 91-010 to
November 19, 1991. Motion carried with Council Member
Rushworth ABSTAINING. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-162.
2. ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENT 91-020 TO ESTABLISH A NEW
COMMERCIAL/OFFICE MEDICAL ZONING DISTRICT CHAPTER 9.92) WHICH
WILL INCLUDE PROVISIONS FOR MEDICAL FACILITIES, OFFICES,
LIMITED RETAIL, PUBLIC AND QUASI-PUBLIC USES AND OTHER LAND
USES DEEMED PERMISSIBLE AND AMENDMENT TO SECTION 9.160 OF THE
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATIVE TO OFF-STREET PARKING. APPLICANT:
CITY OF LA QUINTA.
Mr. Herman advised that if adopted, this amendment would allow
properties of 5 acres or larger, abutting an arterial
thoroughfare to seek this new zoning classification. It will
allow predominately office and medical office uses with some
related uses, i.e., pharmacy, etc. that are accessory to the
primary use.
The Planning Commission has recommended approval of the
amendment.
In response to Council Member Franklin, Mr. Herman advised
that currently we have very few zoning designations. This
will accommodate a wide range of uses that are not appropriate
in currently commercial-zoned Highway 111 frontage.
PUBLIC HEARING OPEN
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bohnenberger
that Ordinance No. 195 be taken up by title and number only
and that further reading be waived. Motion carried
unanimously.
ORDINANCE NO. 195
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ADDING CHAPTER 9.92 PREVIOUSLY DELETED I-P
INDUSTRIAL PARK SECTION) TO THE LA QUINTA MUNICIPAL CODE AND
AMENDMENT CHAPTER 9.160 OF THE OFF-STREET PARKING STANDARDS;
AND CONCURRENCE WITH THE PROPOSED NEGATIVE DECLARATION CASE
NO. ZOA 91-020 CITY OF LA QUINTA.
It was moved by Council Members Sniff/Bohnenberger that
Ordinance No. 195 be introduced on first reading. Motion
carried by the following vote:
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AYES: Council Members Bohnenberger, Franklin, Rushworth,
Sniff, Mayor Pena
NOES: None
ABSTAIN: None
ABSENT: None
3. APPLICATIONS SUBMITTED BY DESERT HOSPITAL: PERTAINING TO 20
ACRES ON THE WEST SIDE OF WASHINGTON STREET AT VIA MARQUESSA
GENERALLY SOUTH OF HIGHLAND PALMS/47TH AVENUE AND NORTH OF
48TH AVENUE):
A. GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 91-037 FROM LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL
TO OFFICE/MEDICAL COMMERCIAL OR ANY OTHER DESIGNATION DEEMED
ACCEPTABLE BY THE CITY COUNCIL
B. CHANGE OF ZONE 91-065 FROM R-1 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENTIAL
TO OFFICE/MEDICAL OR ANY OTHER DESIGNATION DEEMED ACCEPTABLE
BY THE CITY COUNCIL.
C. PLOT PLAN 91-465 FOR DEVELOPMENT OF A 79,000+ SQ. FT.
MULTIPLE STORY, MEDICAL, OUT-PATIENT FACILITY PHASE L) WITH
360+ ON-SITE PARKING SPACES, AN ON-SITE RETENTION BASIN FOR
FLOOD WATER DETENTION, RELATED ON-SITE LANDSCAPING AND HELI-
PAD.
Mayor Pena advised that upon advise of Counsel, he will be
abstaining from this issue due to a possible conflict of
interest.
Mrs. Honeywell, City Attorney, advised that the issue depends
upon the economic impact that the proposed action would have
on a source of income of which the Mayor is one of the Board
of Directors.
GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 91-037
Mr. Herman advised that this General Plan Amendment would re-
designate residentially-designated property to a new
Office/Commercial designation. It would ultimately permit the
project in question.
Mayor Pro Tern Bohnenberger asked if the applicant wished to
make a presentation and Mr. Bergman advised that they wished
to reserve the right to speak at a later point.
PUBLIC HEARING OPEN
* Joe Hernandez, 46-325 Cameo Palms Dr., advised that he was
representing his community of Highland Palms, which will be
affected tremendously by this project. He spoke to the issue
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of traffic, which will be created by this project and the
bottleneck situation that will result in his area. The
positive aspect is, that a hospital will be nearby,
alleviating the need to get to Highway 111.
Dr. Robert Stevenson, 78-150 Tampico, felt that the proposed
project will create a problem with traffic and noise with the
sirens. He also commented on the kinds of crowds that are
attracted to hospital emergency rooms on weekend nights and
wasn't sure he wanted to see that in his neighborhood. He
also feared that this project won't make it and it will leave
a large empty parking lot in a beautiful cove.
Steve O'Grady, 49-130 Eisenhower Dr., felt that this facility
should be closer to Highway 111 citing traffic problems.
Sayed Safavian, 46-800 Highland Palms Dr., felt that this
project will create serious traffic problems and that this
facility is incompatible with a residential neighborhood.
Lucia Moran, advised that the premise behind the Washington
Street Specific Plan, was to move traffic from the Cove to
Highway 111 and Interstate 10 with as little interruption as
possible. When Adams Street was closed off, that left
Washington St. the only north-south major arterial that is
within our direct control. This project will create a major
traffic problem on a street that is already experiencing
traffic problems. She urged the Council to leave Washington
St. uncluttered. She also believed that the zone change will
discourage the use of commercially-designated land.
Additionally, the Environmental Assessment was done only for
Phase I and should have been on the entire project. She felt
that the project will have a major impact on the environment
and asked for a complete EIR.
Barry Wolfman, Chief Executive Officer of J.F.K. Hospital,
advised that he is a resident of La Quinta and requested
denial of the project and of the zone change. Further
expansion of commercial enterprise into a residential
neighborhood is not good for La Quinta. He felt that this is
a very conspicuous residential area and will have a negative
impact on traffic. He believed that this project will
seriously hurt health care in the valley, adding costs by
duplication of services. He also questioned the feasibility
of a helipad.
Gary Avise, 78-710 Via Sonata, stated that he goes to Desert
Hospital and is interested in seeing a facility that is as
comprehensive as Desert Hospital offer services to this City.
You can't just look at the number of vacant beds there's a
great deal more service being provided than hospital care. He
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felt that zone changes are something you live with all the
time and that this use is appropriate for the area. He also
commented on the potential for a day care center at this site.
David Hanaman, 48-147 Vista Cielo, stated that one of the
things that attracted him to Laguna De La Paz was the fact
that the adjacent property was zoned R-1. However, they are
happy to trade those perceived advantages of R-1 for having a
first-class medical facility nearby, operated by a hospital
that will maintain a first-class facility. They have a good
financial base and a good reputation. He supported the
project.
Philip Pead, 78-611 Highway 111, felt that it will adversely
impact the City to locate a commercial project on residential
land. It should be located on commercially-designated land.
The impact of rezoning residential to commercial is that
potential investors delay their decision to participate in a
commercial project on commercial-zoned land when they're able
to rezone cheaper land. He asked for denial.
Paul Selzer, 38-727 Maracaibo Cr., Palm Springs, has been a
property owner in La Quinta for 15 years. He expressed
concern about converting R-1 land to commercial as there?s
currently 800 acres of undeveloped commercial land in the
City. He felt that the end result will be to slow development
of commercially zoned land.
Gilbert Smith, Pomona First Federal, owner of property at the
southeast corner of Washington and Highway 111, felt that
rezoning R-1 to commercial will have a devastating effect on
the remaining 800 acres of commercial land in the City. He
urged denial.
red Simon, 78-611 Highway 111, owner of Simon Motors, advised
that he participated with the City in the development of the
General Plan Up-Date when the Washington Street Specific Plan,
was adopted. The purpose was to develop a traffic pattern in
which to give people an opportunity to get to Highway 111. It
did not take into consideration any additional commercially-
zoned land on Washington. He felt this will set a dangerous
precedent.
Peter Richardson, 1270 Del Paso Way, Palm springs, expressed
concern over Desert Hospital's plan to expand, citing problems
they currently have in Palm Springs. He commented on the
surplus of hospital beds in the Valley. He felt that this
will set a dangerous precedent and hoped that it will not be
approved.
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Mary Van Fleet, felt there are enough hospitals in the Valley
and that this one will create serious traffic problems and
asked that a full EIR be required.
Dr. Isaal A. Sultan, 81-893 Dr. Carreon Blvd., commented on
the matter of there being a 25% vacancy at all three hospitals
and wondered what good another one will do. He felt that it
will have a negative ripple effect to J.F.K. Unless La Quinta
is clamoring for their own hospital, he urged Council to deny
this request.
Joe Frolove, 48-225 Calle Floristas, stated that many people
at Laguna De La Paz are opposed to this project and urged
Council's denial.
Bob Jones, 78-365 Highway 111, advised that he is a lobbyist
for AARP and they strongly oppose this project on the basis
that they believe it will cause health care costs to increase.
Al Campbell, 80-120 Vista Grande, employee of J.F.K. Hospital
did not see the need for an additional hospital given the
number of empty beds currently at the existing ones.
Frank Curry, 48-710 Hepburn, Indio, Chief of Emergency at
J.F.K. Hospital, opposed this project as he felt that it
represents duplication of services and sees it as a threat to
high-quality medical care.
Ralph Clemmons, 78-980 Underwood Ct., sold his house in Palm
Springs to move here because of the noise there. He urged
denial.
Lou Schwarz, Associate Professor with Cal State, Dominguez
Hills, sees this as duplication of services and urged denial.
Douglas Rall, 78-390 Highland Palms, spoke to the impact this
project will have on traffic and that the frontage road along
Highland Palms was not built to accommodate commercial
traffic. He felt that the reason for selecting this site was
financial. He also spoke to the noises from sirens and
helicopters that will be resultant from this project.
Lawrence Guntz, 48-529 Via Encanto, felt this is spot zoning.
Joyce White, 77-395 Calle Durango, employee of J.F.K. Hospital
felt that another hospital will be detrimental for not only La
Quinta, but for the health care workers because of lack of
work. There isn't a need for this facility.
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City Council Minutes 15 October 21, 1991
Robin Boardman, 52-575 Avenida Rubio, registered nurse at
J.F.K. Hospital, advised that she's already being asked to
take time off of work because it's so Slow. This hospital is
not needed. She felt that the additional traffic will mar
this beautiful enchanting village.
Linda Pjtts, 78-748 Via Sonata, stated that the greatest
benefit is accessibility of health care to La Quinta
residents. She also pointed out that it will accommodate a
day care center which has been identified as a need in the
City. She is proud to be associated with Desert Hospital.
Many people drive there for services who won't have to make
that drive with this facility.
Ron Narowki, Laguna De La Paz, felt that this project belongs
on Highway 111. He likes to listen to the coyotes at night
and not ambulances.
Judith Owens Burns, 72-757 Fred Waring Drive, Palm Desert,
stated that she was part of the General Plan Citizens Advisory
Committee and at that time there was a concern for the
downtown area and how to preserve it when Highway 111
developed. She asked that the Council look at the General
Plan before making a decision, pointing out that there are
several large parcels in the City that can accommodate this
project.
Mark Moran, P.O. Box 1305, stated that there has been an
attempt to keep commercial of f of Washington St. and cited
Spanos' project on Washington and Miles in which the
commercial was moved to keep it off of Washington. He felt
that rezoning R-l will dilute the commercial land efforts and
begin a new round of land development speculations that
encourages the buying of residential land so that it can be
upzoned to commercial. He urged the Council not to damage the
integrity of the Washington St. Specific Plan and not to
penalize the people who live off of Washington.
John McGay, spoke for Judy vassey, 54-066 BermudaS, who is out
of town. He lives in Bermuda Dunes and their Committee asked
that he come to the meeting to see how things are being done
on a General Plan level. They want the City to know they are
watching land use matters.
Peter Bergman, Chief Financial Officer of Desert Hospital,
advised that they have been pursuing this development since
January and have talked to many people and have attempted to
mitigate all concerns. He submitted a petition signed by 873
residents of the City supporting the project.
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City Council Minutes 16 October 21, 1991
He advised that the site consists of 30 acres with 20
buildable acres. They have master-planned the site. Phase I
consists of an 80,000 sq. ft. building with medical offices
and out-patient services which will have comprehensive lab and
radiology services and same-day surgery; out-patient
rehabilitation; out-patient cancer center; pharmacy and
related retail sales. There are four buildings planned
representing 15 years of development. They plan a 9-5
operation. He added that a helipad is not a part of the
application.
He noted that while Desert Hospital is a tax supported
organization, no tax dollars will be spent on this facility.
It will be a separate, profit-making organization called El
Mirador, which is a wholly owned corporation by Desert
Hospital.
Mr. Bergman then reviewed the architecture of the building,
and the access plan which he believed is sound. They plan to
spend about $10 million on the building and about 35% of the
work will be let to local contractors. Commercial traffic is
generally going into a separate entrance that accesses off of
Washington Street and seeks to keep traffic away from
residential that abuts their property to the north.
La Quinta made sense for a site because, demographically, 22%
of the health care provided to La Quinta residents on an in-
patient basis) is at Desert Hospital and 50% of La Quinta
babies are born at Desert Hospital.
Financing is in place and plans are nearly ready for
submission. In selecting a site, many issues were considered
including the need for a location where infrastructure was in
place. This site met all their needs. He noted that the
traffic study was based on complete build-out rather than only
for this 80,000 sq. ft. building. The traffic study shows a
traffic signal, but they do have an optional plan which
eliminates the signal.
He felt that the zone change will enhance the existing
commercial development and will encourage additional. They
would rather not see encroachment onto the high-visibility,
high-sales tax generating Highway 111 corridor. They believe
that their project represents the highest and best use of this
property.
In response to Council Member Bohnenberger, Mr. Bergman
advised that they will not add beds to this facility until the
demand is there, which will probably be between five and ten
years. Regarding the statistics that 22% of La Quinta
residents go to Desert Hospital, that figure came from a
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City Council Minutes 17 October 21, 1991
company called Datas Corporation, which almost all hospitals
participate in by submitting statistics. All hospitals in the
Coachella valley participate in it.
Council Member Franklin asked if they are looking at the other
30 acres and Mr. Bergman advised not. He then detailed the
organizational structure and financing mechanism involved.
They currently have an option on the property in question with
$250,000 down. Regarding the helipad, they were required to
accommodate helicopters in Palm Springs, because they are the
designated trauma center in the valley.
Council Member Franklin commented that some of the people
circulating petitions for Desert Hospital misrepresented the
facts in obtaining the signatures.
Mayor Pro Tem Rushworth advised that he has been told that
Spanos opposes this project.
Council Member Sniff asked if they would be interested in
Plaza Tampico and Mr. Bergman advised not, that it's not
compatible.
Council Member Bohnenberger asked if it's legal to levy a bed
tax on a hospital and Mrs. Honeywell advised that she would
research it.
Jeff Subcheck, with Mediplex, San Diego, spoke regarding the
location stating that Highway 111 is a valuable tax-generating
corridor and did not believe that the City would want to see
a non-tax generating business locate there. He advised that
there have been 11 zone changes from residential to commercial
in the City since incorporation. All eleven have been
approved, with the most recent being the site of the future
Ralphs. He added that both Eisenhower and J.F.K. Hospitals
are looking to locate in La Quinta, so additional health care
must be needed.
Tiana Hamilton, Traffic Engineer with Barton Ashton, addressed
the Council and reviewed the traffic study and traffic
circulation plans.
George Marzicola, advised that he has owned 72 acres at the
southeast corner of Highway 111 and Washington for 12 years.
He doesn't want the City to lose a medical facility, however,
he question the appropriateness of the location. He advised
that they have had discussions with Eisenhower and J.F.K.
Hospitals regarding locating on his site. They are willing to
donate a portion of the land to a medical facility that meets
their standards. That would reduce and mitigate the cost to
any medical facility venture in developing a project.
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City Council Minutes 18 October 21, 1991
PUBLIC HEARING WAS CLOSED
Council Member Bohnenberger stated that people are saying this
is a commercial development and that we have enough commercial
acreage already. He's never considered a hospital to be a
commercial development we're talking basic human services
it's not a high impact, high sales tax generating commercial
development with high traffic loads. He didn't wish to see
the Highway 111 corridor taken up by types of commercial
development that don't generate high sales tax on a high
traffic corridor. He noted that Desert Hospital, Eisenhower
and J.F.K. have residential on at least one side. He also
commented on the statistics which shows that 22% of the La
Quinta residents are driving to Palm Springs to use Desert
Hospital and if the other hospitals are looking at La Quinta
in which to locate, then there must be a need. He didn't
believe that the traffic study showed a significant impact on
traffic. He was anxious to see quality health care at an
affordable cost. He was very supportive and feels it is
compatible with residential and with the mitigation measures,
it will have minor impact and a real benefit to the City and
its residents.
Council Member Franklin agreed that we need some of the
medical services outlined in the community, but she was
totally opposed to up-zoning this property to commercial and
she believed that it is a commercial project. She didn't
believe that the traffic has been mitigated. Regarding the
plans of the other hospitals, they aren't looking to build a
hospital in La Quinta, they're looking at building medical
offices. She concluded that she wasn't opposed to the
project, the community has a viable need for it, but she felt
that it's in the wrong location.
Council Member Rushworth agreed with Council Member
Bohnenberger and commented that he has been happy with J.F.K.
Hospital, but we have a proposal here that he didn't believe
we can turn aside. He wasn't afraid of the traffic pattern
and stated that they are building a medical office building
and the rest of the project will be built as the need
dictates. He added that he did not consider a hospital to be
a commercial venture.
Council Member Sniff stated that he noted with interest, the
comments on traffic in light of an election several years in
which Adams Street was deleted from the City's traffic
pattern. He felt that this is a worthy project and would like
to see it proceed. However, there are a number of concerns
which have surfaced here, as well as telephone calls he's
received and many of them were from surrounding residents who
are concerned about the impact on traffic. He was concerned
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City Council Minutes 19 October 21, 1991
about adding additional commercial land when so much is
currently under-utilized. Therefore, he had to go on record
as opposed to the project.
RESOLUTION NO. 91-
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
91-210 AND APPROVAL OF GENERAL PLAN AMENDMENT 91-037, A
REQUEST TO AMEND THE LA QUINTA GENERAL PLAN LAND USE MAP FROM
LOW DENSITY RESIDENTIAL TO OFFICE/MEDICAL COMMERCIAL AND TO
AMEND THE CITY'S GENERAL PLAN TEXT. CASE NO. GPA 91-037
DESERT HOSPITAL.
It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Rushworth that
the above noted resolution be adopted. Motion failed to carry
by the following vote:
AYES: Council Members Bohnenberger, Rushworth
NOES: Council Members Franklin, Sniff
ABSTAIN: Mayor Pena
ABSENT: None
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/
Rushworth to take up Ordinance No. next) by title and number
only and waive further reading. Motion failed to carry with
Council Members Franklin/Sniff voting NO and Mayor pena
Abstaining.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/
Rushworth that Plot Plan 91-465 be approved. Motion failed to
carry with Council Members Franklin/Sniff voting NO and Mayor
Pena Abstaining.
4. TENTATIVE TRACT 26972 SUBDIVISION OF 9.6 ACRES INTO 15
SINGLE FAMILY LOTS WEST OF MADISON ST. 1/2 MILE SOUTH OF
AVENUE 50 AND CONFIRMATION OF ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT.
APPLICANT: DR. JOSEPH DARR.
Mr. Sawa, Principal Planner, presented staff report advising
that the Planning Commission has recommended approval of the
subject map with a revised condition requiring that the lots
be 1.5 acres in size as opposed to the requested 20,000 sq.
ft. lots. The existing zoning is R-1-20,000.
In response to Council Member Franklin, Mr. Sawa advised that
according to the C.C.& R's, horses will not be allowed.
PUBLIC HEARING OPEN
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George Sterns, 51-425 Madison, advised that his property is
directly south of the proposed project and believed that the
people should have the option of having horses.
Olga Giannini, 51-555 Madison Street, urged approval of the
Planning Commission recommendation noting that people who
bought in that area did so because they wanted to live in a
rural area.
Morgan Ward, 48-800 San Pedro, stated that he supported Dr.
Darr and Mr. Pudney's applications advising that they plan a
very good quality project. It can continue to be of a rural
nature without being like it was 25 years ago. He felt that
1.5 acre lots is a mistake, as you need at least 2.5 acres to
accommodate horses. He noted that in Green valley, which has
the larger lots, there are only two lots which have horses.
The price range of this project will probably be between
$350, 000-$400 000.
Gabriella Giannini, 51-555 Madison, urged that the Planning
Commission recommendation be approved as she felt that if the
smaller lots are approved, it will have a domino effect in the
area.
Jack McGinty, Green valley, advised that they have 47 lots,
all of which are landscaped and many have horses. All of the
lots are sold. They wish to see some protection for an
equestrian area.
Bess Sterns, noted that the applicant has stated that they
intend to save as many trees as possible and with 1.5 acre
lots, they will be able to save more.
Mike Rowe, with Keith Companies, stated that he has talked to
El Dorado Polo Grounds people and they have no objections to
this project. He believed that these homes will be owned by
people who will be seasonal, and will not wish to have an
equestrian overlay or a large landscaped area. He felt that
20,000 sq. ft. is substantial in size and noted that they are
going to save as many trees as possible. Regarding the
conditions, he asked that Condition No. 9 be eliminated and
that Condition No. 16 be modified to allow a maximum height of
single-story units to 25' and two story at 30'.
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
In response to Mayor Pena, Mr. Herman advised that there are
no provisions in the current General Plan for an equestrian
trail, but there have been discussions about adding it in the
up-date. Mr. Sawa advised that a block wall is planned.
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City Council Minutes 21 October 21, 1991
Mayor pena was hoping that the applicant would be present. He
wished to see this matter continued, so that the Council can
give it further study.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Sniff to
continue the consideration of Tentative Tract 26972 to
December 3, 1991. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER
NO. 91-163.
5. TENTATIVE TRACT 27187 APPLICATION FOR SUBDIVISION OF 5+
ACRES INTO 8 SINGLE FAMILY LOTS IN AN R-1-20,000 ZONE ON THE
WEST SIDE OF MADISON STREET AND SOUTH OF FUTURE BETH CIRCLE
APPLICANT: GARY L. PUDNEY.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Franklin/Bohnenberger
that consideration of Tentative Tract 26972 be continued to
December 3, 1991. Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER
NO. 91-164.
6. ESTABLISHMENT OF VARIOUS FEES AND DEPOSITS FOR CHAPTER 14.20-
MOVING BUILDINGS. APPLICANT: CITY OF LA QUINTA.
Mr. Herman asked that the resolution presented be adopted
establishing fees as set forth in Chapter 14.20 of the
Municipal Code relative to moving of buildings.
PUBLIC HEARING OPEN
PUBLIC HEARING CLOSED
RESOLUTION NO. 91-81
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF LA QUINTA,
CALIFORNIA, ESTABLISHING FEES AND DEPOSITS FOR MOVING
BUILDINGS UNDER CHAPTER 14.20 OF THE LA QUINTA CITY CODE.
It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Franklin that
Resolution No. 91-81 be adopted. Motion carried unanimously.
COUNCIL COMMENT None
PUBLIC COMMENT None
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DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Mr. Reynolds advised that many of the homeowners in the Highland
Palms area are looking for the City to replace the curbs and
gutters in that area. That work can be done for about $200,000 and
recommended that it be added to the contract for Phase IV of the
Cove Improvement Project as a change order.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Bohnenberger/Franklin to
prepare a report as to what areas need to be replaced in order to
install drainage to the area and authorize them to proceed with the
work up to a maximum of $200,000.
Mr. Reynolds advised that this will be a contract change order
which will have to be submitted to the Council.
Council Member Bohnenberger amended the motion to authorize staff
to proceed with processing a change order at the next meeting.
Motion carried unanimously. MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-165.
Mr. Herman advised that another study session with the Planning
Commission regarding the General Plan up-date has been scheduled
for October 29th at 7:00 P.M. at the Youth/Day Care Center. He
added that a major presentation on the General Plan will be held on
December 11th at the Middle School.
He also advised that at their last meeting, the Planning Commission
directed staff to start a general plan/change of zone for the
Spanos Project on Miles/washington and to conduct a public hearing
on the tentative tract time extension and specific plan and to
amend some conditions which also ties back into the General Plan.
Ms. Honeywell advised that the Planning Commission does not have
the authority to direct staff in that regard, so staff is looking
for direction from Council.
Council concurred on proceeding with the Specific Plan and
Tentative Tract, but not the General Plan and Change of Zone.
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City Council Minutes 23 October 21, 1991
BUSINESS SESSION
6. CONSIDERATION AND SELECTION OF CIVIC CENTER MANAGING
UNDERWRITER.
Council Member Bohnenberger abstained due to a possible
conflict of interest.
Mr. Kiedrowski advised that our Financial Consultant, Bill
Fieldman has recommended that the firm of Sutro be selected as
the managing underwriter for the Civic Center Bond Issue
following an interview of four firms.
In response to questions by Council, Mr. Kiedrowski advised
that Sutro has as much prestige on the floor as any of the
other underwriters. The only fiscal implication at this
point, is a trip to New York.
MOTION It was moved by Council Members Rushworth/Franklin to
authorize selection of Sutro as the Managing Underwriter for
the Civic Center bond issue. Motion carried unanimously.
MINUTE ORDER NO. 91-166.
CLOSED SESSION
a. Discussion of potential pending litigation pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956(a)
Pyramids Development Agreement
Landmark Bankruptcy Proceedings.
b. Discussion of on-going litigation pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.9(a)
City of Indio, Indio Case No. 62944
Fredericks FA Cv91-3l7AHS
Palm Springs Redevelopment Agency re: Canyon Park Project
c. Discussion of personnel pursuant to Government Code Section
54957.
d. Discussion of potential property acquisition pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.8
Issues relating to C.V. Recreation and Park District and
Potential Park Acquisition
e. Discussion of negotiations pursuant to Government Code Section
54956.8
Desert Villas
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City Council Minutes 24 October 21, 1991
There being no further business, the meeting was adjourned.
Re?ectful1y submitted,
SAUNDRA L. JUHOLA, City Clerk
City of La Quinta, California
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