HomeMy WebLinkAbout2001 - MINUTES - 10/31/2001 - STUDY SESSIONSTUDY SESSION
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
OCTOBER 31, 2001
CONVENE IN OPEN SESSION
A. Call Back to Order-Large Conference Room
B. Flag Salute
C. City Attorney Report on Matters Discussed in Closed Session-See Page 2 of
Agenda this date.
D. Public Comments - None
E. COUNCIL COMMENTS/QUESTIONS/REPORTS
Councilmembers commented on various civic functions attended.
F. CITY MANAGER COMMENTS
City Manager introduced Director of Tourism, a video was run that is currently
being used on television ads in Los Angeles, Orange and San Diego Counties
promoting Palm Springs as a getaway of rest and relaxation; a audio clip was
also played concerning the same topic.
Director of Tourism stated that the response to the ads is being tracked; that
tourism is expecting to see increases in TOT and sales tax; and upon
recommendation from Councilmember Hodges stated that the possibility of
having the posters framed promoting Palm Springs would be researched.
G. STUDY SESSION
1. SCAG AND CVAG A WORKING PARTNERSHIP
Arnold San Miguel and Greg Pettis gave a power point presentation that
explained the function of both entities.
2. TRAFFIC CONGESTION RELIEF ACT INITIATIVE
Rob Parkins reviewed a handout, copy attached, requesting Council support of
the initiative.
Council direction for the initiative to be on the next action agenda.
3. QUARTERLY BUDGET REPORT
Director of Finance reviewed power point presentation, copy attached.
Jones stated because of the delay in the refinancing of the Convention Center
bonds a greater surplus was received due to the lower interest rates; that PD &
FS costs are on the rise; that the two departments are 48% of the budget; that
the population of the city is up 4 –5%, but the budget for PD is up 30% and FD is
up 24%; that the increases are large; that there is not a lot more customers being
served; that the PD is getting $5 million more dollars this year than 6 years ago
and likewise the FD is getting $2.6 million more for the same time frame.
Mayor questioned Councilmember Jones recommendations or suggestions for a
solution.
Jones: stated that there must be a solution; that the costs have risen
dramatically; that there are more safety personnel; that the cost needs to be
reviewed.
Oden stated that it is important to understand we are a service; that this service
is employees; that the community is constantly requesting more police officers;
that the service we want does result in a cost; that the City is a full service City
and that with tourism we must provide a clean and safe environment.
Mayor stated that we have now exceed 15% in reserves; that the books were
closed on last year much better than expected; that there may be problems due
to the 9-11 incident; that tourism may be impacted; and that the budget will need
to be closely monitored.
City Manager stated that there is a lot of detail to be furnished to the Council
regarding the budget; that every position in City service is being reviewed; that
any position that can be gotten rid of will; that could the Council want to see cuts,
the cuts will be made.
ADJOURNMENT