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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2002 - MINUTES - 7/31/2002 STUDY SESSIONSTUDY SESSION CITY OF PALM SPRINGS JULY 31, 2002 CONVENE IN OPEN SESSION A. Call to Order-Large Conference Room - All Present B. Flag Salute C. City Attorney Report on Matters Discussed in Closed Session-See Page 2 of Regular Agenda this date. D. Public Comments - None E. COUNCIL COMMENTS/QUESTIONS/REPORTS Councilmembers commented on various civic functions attended. F. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS – None G. STUDY SESSION 1. ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION John Stiles, EDC reviewed a power point presentation, copy attached. Specific requests of the EDC include attendance at the Development Opportunity Group Session, know as DOGS; that a Council subcommittee be formed to meet quarterly with the EDC. City Manager stated that the permitting process is subject to review and recommended a member of the EDC be included on the subcommittee; that Building and Planning have been split to separate any log jamming issues; that the two departments do work closely together; that a search is ongoing to replace the Building Official position; that there are process issues with both departments; and that the “Open for Business” position is being put forth. Oden questioned if the “Open for Business” program will include a task force and for how long. City Manager stated that all processes must be reviewed then a determination will be made to consider how long the task force will be needed. Reller-Spurgin and Mills volunteered for the EDC subcommittee. Hodges stated purposes of Planning task force is to straighten out problems; that if a task force can do it that is ok, but the City should not wait till January to get started and that the group should include citizens Hodges stated some citizens are concerned if are a part of the task force, there may be retaliation; that it has happened in the past within the city forces. Ernie Noia, EDC, stated that the perception in the City is that it is hard to get anything through for approval; be it true or not, that is the perception; that something must be done. Jim Stuart, EDC, stated from the commercial real estate wide, there are many projects proceeding smoothly through the city; that good things are being done and that staff is willing to work with the people. Mills stated that if Hodges hears or sees problems, those should be given to the EDC subcommittee for be reviewed. Hodges stated that personally there are no problems; that the problems are being expressed from citizens in the community; that it is the small single family residences that are experiencing hassles and delays, not the big developers. Mills stated that the task force would also include addressing attitudes of the staff. City Manager stated that Hodges’ issues are manifested in the Community; that many times there are structures erected in the City that are not permitted and are in violation; that when these types of issues are cited through enforcement, that is when the property owner gets upset; and that it may be some changes are needed in the City’s ordinances. Oden stated that some time ago there was a recommendation that all projects in the City be reviewed by the EDC. Mr. Stiles stated that the EDC is reviewing projects at this point and does offer recommendations when needed. Mayor cautioned that the City does not and should not add another layer of bureaucracy to its approval process. Mr. Stiles stated that there does need to be criteria developed on what the EDC should actually review, rather than all projects. Hodges requested minutes of the EDC be forwarded to the Members of the City Council. Mr. Stiles affirmed and added that basically the members of the EDC know what can and cannot be built in the City; and that it will work with staff. City Manager stated that any citizen could call his Office at any time when assistance is needed.