HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003 - MINUTES - 3/26/2003 STUDY SESSIONSTUDY SESSION
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
MARCH 26, 2003
CONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
A. Call to Order-Large Conference Room-Hodges absent
B. Flag Salute
C. City Attorney Report on Matters Discussed in Closed Session-See Page 2 of
Agenda this date.
D. PUBLIC COMMENTS
The following persons spoke in support of the downtown Desert Fashion Plaza
streetscape plan.
John Stiles, PSEDC
Joy Meredith, Crystal Fantasy
Diane Matzner, merchant
E. COUNCIL COMMENTS/QUESTIONS/REPORTS
Councilmembers commented on various civic functions attended.
Oden requested staff research is the EDD was moving out of the City; whether or
not the City follows Roberts Rules of Order; and to the Hotel & Hospitality
proposal be discussed concerning TOT and the Convention Center; and added
that a report from the County concerning the homeless issue would be
forthcoming to the Council for review.
F. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
G. STUDY SESSION
1. DESERT FASHION PLAZA STREETSCAPE PLAN
Downtown Development Director reviewed a plan for the revamping of the
street scape in front of the Desert Fashion Plaza that would be façade
only; that there are plans moving forward by the developer for the center
itself, but that the façade is in need of immediate addressing; that the
funds to cover the costs would be derived from the parking fund; that the
cost would be approximately $450,000; and that there will be a total of 39
new parking spaces generated.
Council consensus to review the street plans in detail when completed.
2. VISITORS CENTER CONCEPTUAL PLAN
Director of Community & Economic Development reviewed the conceptual
plans in detail, see attached copies.
Council consensus to get tourism in the building by deadline; review offsite
parking options; build permanent restrooms; work to get partners in the
project and continue with Option B site plans.
3. 2003-04 BUDGET UPDATE
Director of Finance & Treasurer reviewed handouts, copies attached.
City manager stated that the hiring freeze would remain in effect; that in
the proposed budget there are no proposed cuts to police or fire; that right
now the cuts are transparent to the community; and that negotiations have
started with the general and management units.
Mayor questioned the effect of a hiring freeze on police and fire staffing
levels vs. the effect of overtime.
Director of Human Resources stated that a vacancy report would be
provided to the Council for review and that some of the vacancies are not
in the general fund.
Oden requested each Department to prepare a report on impacts to the
service level should staffing levels be impacted.
ADJOURN