HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-04-08 CC MINUTESThursday, April 8, 2021
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council
of the City of Palm Springs
Pursuant to Executive Order N-29-20, by Governor Newsom, this meeting was conducted by
teleconference and there was no in-person public access to the meeting location.
CALL TO ORDER:
A Regular Meeting of the Palm Springs City Council was called to order by Mayor Holstege
on Thursday , April 8, 2021, at 5:36 p.m.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Holstege led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Councilmembers Grace Elena Garner, Geoff Kors, Dennis Woods; Mayor Pro Tem
Lisa Middleton; and Mayor Christy Holstege
Absent: None.
City Staff
Present: Justin Clifton, City Manager; Jeffrey Ballinger, City Attorney; Marcus Fuller,
Assistant City Manager; and Anthony J. Mejia, City Clerk, were present at Roll
Call. Other staff members presented reports or responded to questions as indicated
in the minutes.
PRESENTATIONS:
• COVID-19 CASE UPDATE
Emergency Management Coordinator DeSelms presented an update on COVID-19 cases
in Palm Springs and Riverside County.
• COVID-19 WASTEWATER TREATMENT UPDATE
Assistant City Manager Fuller presented an update on wastewater COVID-19 testing.
• INTRODUCTION OF CITY COUNCIL INTERN
Councilmember Garner introduced her intern, David Garcia, who will be assisting with
community outreach efforts.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 2
• ADJOURNMENT IN MEMORY OF ROBERT IMBER, CORA CRAWFORD, JIM
GROSS, AND PETER MAIETTA
City Council honored the following Palm Springs residents who recently passed away:
Robert Imber, Cora Crawford, Jim Gross, and Peter Maietta.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM
MIDDLETON, CARRIED 5-0, to accept the agenda, with the removal of Item No. 5D from the
agenda.
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
The Regular Closed Session of the City Council of April 8, 2021, was called to order by Mayor
Holstege at 3:00 p.m., with all members present.
The meeting convened into Closed Session to discuss the following items as listed on the Regular
Closed Session Meeting Agenda:
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – EXISTING LITIGATION, Pursuant to
Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(1):
Russell Manning v. City of Palm Springs
Case No. PSC 1704634
Joanna Connolly v. City of Palm Springs
Case No. PSC 200408
Maria Sabordo et. al. v. City of Palm Springs
Case No. PSC 1602732
Dave’s Towing v. City of Palm Springs
Case No. RIC1901178
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – MATTERS CREATING SIGNIFICANT
EXPOSURE TO LITIGATION, Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
Four (4) matters that, under the existing circumstances, the City Attorney believes creates
significant exposure to litigation.
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – DISCUSSION TO CONSIDER INITIATION OF
LITIGATION, Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(4):
Under existing facts and circumstances, there are two (2) matters the City Council has decided
or may decide to initiate litigation.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 3
CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR, Pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
Property Description: APN 677 -444-010
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Luis A. Avila Paz and Maria Avila
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment - Right-of-Way Acquisition
Property Description: 67470 Ramon Road APN 677 -444-013
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Luis A. Avila Paz and Maria Avila
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment - Right-of-Way Acquisition
Property Description: APN 680 -170-053
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: United States Bureau of Indian Affairs
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment - Right-of-Way Acquisition
Property Description: APN 681-070-037
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Indigo 3735 E. Palm Canyon Drive LLC
Under Negotiation: Right-of-Way Acquisition - Fair Market Value
Property Description: APN 510-160-014
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Palm Canyon Farms, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment - Right-of-Way Acquisition
Property Description: APN 681-070-013
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: United States Bureau of Indian Affairs
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment - Right-of-Way Acquisition
Property Description: Three single family lots in the Desert Highland
neighborhood with assessor parcel numbers 669 -401-039,
669-353-001, and 669 -401-010
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 4
Property Description: Parking Lot Adjacent to 3735 East Palm Canyon Drive (681-
070-037)
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Indigo 3735 E Palm Canyon Drive LLC, a Delaware LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Property Description: Palm Canyon Wash just West of Rim Road
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Palm Canyon Farms LLC, a California LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Property Description: 3575 E Palm Canyon Drive, Palm Springs, California 92264
(APN 681-070-013)
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: USA - BIA
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Property Description: Dream Hotel, 450 Calle Alvarado, Palm Springs, CA 92262
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Lauri Kibby, Selene Palm Springs, LLC
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Property Description: 3.6 Acres at SE corner of Indian Canyon Drive and San
Rafael Road
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Community Housing Opportunities Corporation (CHOC)
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
Property Description: Boulders Property (Lots 1-45 of Tract Map 31095/APNs
504-150-011 through -055); Crescendo Property (APN 504-
040-046); Rimrock Property (APN 681-480-011); Gene
Autry Property (APNs: 677-540-028 & 677-540-029);
Block G of parcel map 36446 (APN 513-560-048)
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 5
Property Description: Riverside County Assessor Parcel No. 669-330-029
(Northwest corner of Tramview Road and Indian Canyon
Drive, Palm Springs & a portion of James O. Jessie Desert
Highland Park
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Desert Community College District and Watermarke
Homes/ John Pavelak
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Sale of Property)
CONFERENCE WITH LABOR NEGOTIATOR, Pursuant to Government Code Section 54957.6:
City Negotiator: Justin Clifton, City Manager or Designee
Kim Hardcastle, Acting Director of Human Resources
Bryan Reyes, Chief of Police
Peter Brown, Attorney
Employee Organizations: Management Association of Palm Springs
Palm Springs Firefighters Association
Palm Springs Fire Management
Palm Springs Police Management Association
Palm Springs Police Officers Association
Public Employees Association of Palm Springs
All Unrepresented Employees
City Attorney Ballinger reported that the City Council received briefings and provided direction
to staff regarding the agendized Closed Session Items but did not take any reportable action.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY:
Matt Bousquette, speaking on Item 3A, suggested that the City provide loans to commercial
tenants to assist with back-rent payments.
David Freedman, Chair, Desert Community Energy Advisory Committee, speaking on Item 5E,
spoke on the success of the Desert Community Energy Program; recommended that DCE suspend
its 100% carbon free plan for low-income customers and adopt the utility bill assistance program.
The following individuals spoke in support of Item 4B related to enacting a Community Workforce
Agreement:
• Richard Markuson, Western Electrical Contractors Association
• Ana Cabral, UFCW, Local 1167
• Vanessa Ingalls, Electrician
• Joe Witcher, Union Sheetmetal Worker
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 6
The following individuals voiced concerns about Item 4B related to a Community Workforce
Agreement:
• Eric Christen, Executive Director, Coalition for Fair Employment in Construction
• Russell Johnson, Associated Builders and Contractors, Southern California Chapter
The following individuals spoke in support of Item 5A, Inclusionary Housing Program:
• Maribel Nunez, Executive Director, Inland Equity Partnership
• Ginny Weissman, Executive Director, Pet Ministry Palm Springs
• Eric Lemus
• Taylor Varner, Lift to Rise
• Araceli Palafox, Deputy Director, Lift to Rise
• Edwin Ramoran
Gretchen Gutierrez, CEO, Desert Valley Builders Association, speaking on Item 5A, voiced
concern that an Inclusionary Housing requirement may negatively impact the building industry in
Palm Springs and urged the Board to work with her association.
CITY COUNCIL, SUBCOMMITTEE, AND CITY MANAGER'S COMMENTS AND
REPORTS:
Councilmember Garner reported on a virtual walk audit for residents to discuss pedestrian safety.
Councilmember Kors announced that the Boys and Girls Club in partnership with the City was
award a $1 million, three-year grant for cannabis-related educational programs.
Mayor Pro Tem Middleton commended the Police Department and LGBTQ Advisory Committee
for hosting a successful townhall meeting.
Councilmember Woods reported that the Coachella Valley Association of Governments will hire
a consultant to review potential solutions to the frequent closure of Indian Canyon Drive.
Mayor Holstege reported on her attendance at various meetings; requested that the City Attorney
provide an update regarding the Forever Marilyn statue lawsuit.
City Attorney Ballinger advised that the Court issued a tentative ruling on the preliminary
injunction in favor of the City.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 7
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the consent calendar.
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of February11 and
February 25, 2021, as revised.
B. LETTER OF SUPPORT FOR ASSEMBLY BILL 550, VEHICLES: SPEED
SAFETY SYSTEM PILOT PROGRAM
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to authorize the issuance of a letter of support to the author(s) of
Assembly Bill 550, Vehicles: Speed Safety System Pilot Program.
C. APPOINTMENTS TO VARIOUS BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Appoint Patrick Basile to the Administrative Appeals Board for a term ending
June 30, 2024.
2. Reappoint Donna Shepherd and appoint David Vignolo and Oliver Cleary to the
Human Rights Commission for terms ending June 30, 2023.
3. Reappoint Deiter Crawford and Jody Diaz and appoint John Miraglia to the Parks and
Recreation Commission for terms ending June 30, 2023, and June 30, 2024, respectively.
4. Reappoint Patricia Breslin, Jeffrey Clarkson, and Robert Hedrick, to the Palm Springs
International Airport Commission for terms ending June 30, 2023.
5. Reappoint Tracy Merrigan and Russell Pritchard to the Public Arts Commission for terms
ending June 30, 2023.
6. Reappoint David Freedman, Carl Baker, and Greg Gauthier and appoint Jake Torrens and
Alex Ocanas to the Sustainability Commission for terms ending June 30, 2022 and
June 30, 2023, respectively.
7. Reappoint Juliette Montante (retail) and appoint David Anderson (at-large) to the
VillageFest Board for terms ending June 30, 2023.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 8
D. SECOND READING AND ADOPTION OF AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 91, CHAPTER 92, CHAPTER 93, AND CHAPTER 94
OF THE PALM SPRINGS ZONING CODE, AND AMENDING SECTION 9.63.080
OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT REVISIONS TO THE
ARCHITECTUAL REVIEW PROCESS AND ASSOCIATED ENTITLEMENT
PROCESSES
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Ordinance No. 2042 entitled, "AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING PORTIONS OF CHAPTER 91, CHAPTER 92, CHAPTER 93, AND
CHAPTER 94 OF THE PALM SPRINGS ZONING CODE, AND AMENDING
SECTION 9.63.080 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE TO ADOPT
REVISIONS TO THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW PROCESS AND ASSOCIATED
ENTITLEMENT PROCESSES."
E. TREASURER'S INVESTMENT REPORT AS OF FEBRUARY 28, 2021
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to receive and file the Treasurer's Investment Report as of
February 28, 2021.
F. APPROVAL OF A NOTICE TO PROCEED TO VEOLIA WATER WEST
OPERATING SERVICES, INC. IN THE AMOUNT OF $82,315 FOR DESIGN OF
A BLOCK WALL AND ELECTRICAL RELOCATION SERVICES FOR THE
WWTP BLOCK WALL, CITY PROJECT NO. 21-11
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Authorize the City Engineer to issue a Notice to Proceed to Veolia Water West
Operating Services Inc. in an amount not to exceed $82,315 for the design of a block
wall and electrical relocation services for the WWTP Block Wall, City Project
No. 21-11.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 9
G. ACCEPTANCE OF THE EAST PALM CANYON DRIVE PEDESTRIAN SAFETY
IMPROVEMENTS, CITY PROJECT NO. 17-09
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Accept the public works improvement identified as the East Palm Canyon Drive
Pedestrian Safety Improvements, City Project No. 17-09, as completed in accordance
with the plans and specifications.
2. Authorize the City Engineer to execute and file for recordation with the Riverside
County Recorder a Notice of Completion for the East Palm Canyon Drive Pedestrian
Safety Improvements, City Project No. 17-09.
H. APPROVAL OF THE FISCAL YEAR 2021/2022 CSA 152 SPECIAL ASSESSMENT
RATE
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24877 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING AN ART MURAL BY ARTIST FELIPE BAEZA ON THE SOUTHERLY
WALL ADJACENT OF AN ACCESSORY STRUCTURE AT 201 NORTH PALM
CANYON DRIVE (CASE 21-001 MUR)."
I. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL WARRANTS, CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24878 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING PAYMENT OF PAYROLL WARRANTS/DISBURSEMENTS FOR THE
PERIOD ENDING 03-20-21 TOTALING $1,594,455.28 AND ACCOUNTS PAYABLE
WARRANTS DATED 03-18-21 TOTALING $4,035,476.52, IN THE AGGREGATE
AMOUNT OF $5,629,931.80, DRAWN ON BANK OF AMERICA."
J. RESOLUTION TO AMEND MASTER BAIL SCHEDULE TO SET FINE
AMOUNTS FOR VIOLATIONS OF PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
6.04.290 - COMMERCIAL SOLID WASTE AND ORGANIC WASTE
RECYCLING FOR BUSINESSES AND MULTI-FAMILY DWELLINGS
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24875 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE MASTER BAIL SCHEDULE FOR VIOLATIONS OF PALM
SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE SECTION 6.04.290."
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 10
K. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO CORA CONSTRUCTORS INC., A
CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,117,600 AND
APPROVAL OF A PURCHASE ORDER IN THE AMOUNT NOT TO EXCEED
$162,090 TO VEOLIA WATER WEST OPERATING SERVICES FOR
CONSTRUCTION MANAGEMENT AND INSPECTION SERVICES FOR THE
BIOSOLIDS HANDLING AREA, CITY PROJECT 20-15
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Award a construction contract to Cora Constructors Inc., a California corporation, in
the amount of $1,117,600 for the Biosolids Handling Area, City Project 20-15. A8760
2. Delegate authority to the City Manager to approve and execute construction contract
change orders up to $111,760 with all change orders reported to the City Council.
3. Authorize a Purchase Order to Veolia Water West Operating Services Inc., pursuant to
Agreement No. 6804, in an amount not to exceed $162,090 for construction
management, inspection and material testing services for the Biosolids Handling Area,
City Project 20-15.
4. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
L. LETTER CALLING FOR THE STATE TO TAX-EXEMPT LOCAL
GOVERNMENT COVID-19 RELIEF PAYMENTS TO RESIDENTS AND
BUSINESSES
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to authorize the issuance of a letter to the Governor and local
state representatives calling for immediate action to tax-exempt local government COVID-
19 relief payments paid to residents and businesses.
M. APPROVAL OF PLANS, SPECIFICATIONS AND ESTIMATE (PS&E) AND
AUTHORIZATION TO BID THE HIGHWAY SAFETY IMPROVEMENT
PROGRAM (HSIP) CYCLE 8 TRAFFIC SIGNAL MODIFICATIONS, FEDERAL-
AID PROJECT NO. HSIPLN-5282(047) CITY PROJECT NO. 16-18 AND
INSTALLATION OF A FLASHING BEACON, FEDERAL-AID PROJECT NO.
HSIPL-5282(048), CITY PROJECT NO. 16-19
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the plans, specifications, and estimate; and authorize
Staff to advertise and solicit bids for HSIP Cycle 8 Traffic Signal Modifications, Federal-
Aid Project No. HSIPLN-5282(047), City Project No. 16-18 and HSIP Cycle 8 Flashing
Beacon, Federal-Aid Project No. HSIPL-5282(048), City Project No. 16-19.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 11
N. APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR HOUSING CONSULTANT SERVICES LESAR
DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Contract Service Agreement with LeSar
Development Consultants for an amount not to exceed $110,000 annually for up to four
years. A8761
2. Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute all necessary documents.
O. PALM SPRINGS COVID-19 SMALL BUSINESS ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
UPDATE
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to approve businesses identified in the staff report for
participation in the COVID-19 Small Business Assistance Program.
P. APPROVAL OF A CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENT WITH SO CAL LAND
MAINTENANCE, INC., A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, FOR ROADSIDE
AND TRANSIENT MAINTENANCE SERVICES
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER GARNER, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Approve a Contract Services Agreement with So Cal Land Maintenance, Inc., a
California corporation, at an annual cost of $222,687 for an initial term through June
30, 2024, with two one-year optional extensions.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 12
3. LEGISLATIVE:
A. URGENCY ORDINANCE ESTABLISHING A TEMPORARY MORATORIUM
ON EVICTIONS FOR COMMERCIAL TENANCIES
City Attorney Ballinger presented the staff report and responded to City Council inquiries.
Following discussion, MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER KORS, SECOND BY
MAYOR HOLSTEGE, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Urgency Ordinance No. 2043 entitled,
"AN URGENCY ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE CITY'S TEMPORARY MORATORIUM ON
EVICTIONS FOR NON-RESIDENTIAL TENANCIES RESULTING FROM
NONPAYMENT OF RENT WHEN SUCH NONPAYMENT WAS CAUSED BY THE
COVID-19 PANDEMIC, AND SETTING FORTH THE FACTS CONSTITUTING
SUCH URGENCY (four-fifths (4/5) vote required)," with the following amendments:
a. Require tenant to pay a minimum of 10% of the total back rent in monthly installments.
b. Clarify the definition of writing to include any written form of communication that has
been used between parties.
c. Clarify that a landlord must give notice summarizing the requirements of the ordinance
and that a tenant must notify landlord within seven days following the rent due date of
their inability to pay.
B. PROPOSED INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADDING SECTIONS 10.04.035, 10.04.040 AND
10.24.045 ESTABLISHING RESPONSIBLE BREEDING REGULATIONS AND
PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE REGULATIONS
Assistant City Manager Marcus Fuller presented the staff report. In response to City
Council inquiry, Mr. Fuller advised that the Friends of the Animal Shelter will take the
lead role in implementation and administration of the new permit program.
The City Council expressed gratitude to Councilmember Garner for working with
stakeholders to develop the proposed ordinance.
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM MIDDLETON, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
KORS, CARRIED 5-0, to introduce Ordinance No. 2043 entitled, "AN ORDINANCE OF
THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING CHAPTERS 10.04 AND
10.24 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE ADDING REGULATIONS FOR
BREEDING PERMITS."
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 13
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
A. DISCUSSION OF PROGRESS AND PLANS FOR COMPLYING WITH STATE
REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING SENATE BILL 1383 SHORT-LIVED
CLIMATE POLLUTANTS: ORGANIC WASTE METHANE EMISSIONS
REDUCTIONS
Sustainability Manager Tallarico and Chris Cunningham, of Palm Springs Disposal
Services, narrated a PowerPoint presentation and responded to City Council inquiries.
Councilmember Garner stressed the importance of a robust community outreach program.
Following discussion, Councilmember Kors and Mayor Holstege volunteered to serve as
City Council liaisons for implementation of Senate Bill 1383.
B. DISCUSSION AND POSSIBLE APPROVAL OF A COMMUNITY WORKFORCE
AGREEMENT BY AND BETWEEN THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS AND SAN
BERNARDINO/RIVERSIDE COUNTIES BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION
TRADES COUNCIL, AFL-CIO AND THE SIGNATORY CRAFT COUNCILS AND
UNIONS
City Attorney Ballinger presented the staff report and responded to City Council inquiries.
Bill Perez and Jimmy Elron, Trades Council representatives, spoke about the need for
standardization in Community Workforce Agreements (CWA). In response to City Council
inquiries, Mr. Perez and Mr. Elron voiced objection to exempting local contractors from
the CWA, asserting that the CWA will result in projects being delivered on-time and on-
budget.
MEETING RECESS
Due to technical difficulties, the City Council recessed at 8:07 p.m. and reconvened at 8:25 p.m.
with all members present.
Mr. Perez and Mr. Elron proceeded with responding to City Council inquiries related to
the benefits of enacting a Community Workforce Agreement; stressed the importance of
standardizing the CWA; reported on their outreach efforts relative to the apprenticeship
programs; stated that non-union workers are not required to pay union dues as a condition
of working under covered projects.
Councilmember Garner voiced concerns there are no benchmarks or guarantees that the
CWA will result in a more diversified workforce.
Councilmember Kors recommended that provision related to employment of city residents
be amended to prioritize zip codes within Palm Springs followed by zip codes in the
Coachella Valley; expressed concern regarding the provision for monetary damages. Mr.
Perez advised they will consider replacing monetary damages with a provision for the
prevailing party’s attorney fees.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 14
In response to City Council inquiry, City Attorney Ballinger advised that the City retains
the right to rebid a project if bids are non-responsive or if bid prices are at an unacceptable
level.
During the course of discussion, the City Council agreed to continue the matter to
May 6, 2021, to allow staff and the Trade Unions to finalize details related to:
• Modifying “Employment of City Residents” to give first priority to zip codes within
Palm Springs, followed by zip codes within the Coachella Valley.
• Eliminate the right to monetary damages and instead include a provision for the
prevailing party’s attorney fees.
• Benchmark and monitor the diversity of the workforce.
• Review and clarify the core hiring ratio requirements.
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER KORS, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
WOODS, CARRIED 5-0, to continue the matter to the City Council meeting of
May 6, 2021.
5. NEW BUSINESS:
A. INCLUSIONARY HOUSING PROGRAM
The City Council did not discuss this matter.
B. CONSIDERATION AND ADOPTION OF REVISIONS TO THE CITY'S
INVESTMENT POLICY
Director of Finance & Treasurer Pauley narrated a PowerPoint presentation and responded
to City Council inquiries.
Following discussion, MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM MIDDLETON, SECOND BY
MAYOR HOLSTEGE, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Adopt Resolution No. 24876 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, ADOPTING AN
INVESTMENT POLICY GOVERNING THE INVESTMENT OF CITY FUNDS
AND SUPERSEDING RESOLUTION NO. 24438," and delegating the City Council's
authority to invest and reinvest public funds, and to sell or exchange securities so
purchased, to the City Treasurer for one year or until earlier revoked by the City
Council.
2. Direct staff to agendize discussion regarding socially responsible investments.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 15
C. U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES REQUESTS FOR COMMUNITY
PROJECTS SUBMISSIONS AS PART OF THE FEDERAL FISCAL YEAR 2022
BUDGET PROCESS
Assistant City Manager Fuller presented the staff report and responded to City Council
inquiries.
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER KORS, SECOND BY MAYOR HOLSTEGE,
CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24784 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY
COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, SUPPORTING THE
SUBMITTAL OF A COMMUNITY FUNDING REQUEST FOR CALIFORNIA
DISTRICT 36 (RUIZ) IN THE AMOUNT OF $1,000,000 FOR ACQUISITION OF A 3
ACRE PROPERTY LOCATED AT THE NORTHWEST CORNER OF EL CIELO
ROAD AND BARISTO ROAD TO DEVELOP FOR AFFORDABLE HOUSING AND
RELATED PURPOSES."
D. DISCUSS PUBLIC ARTS COMMISSION REQUEST TO AMEND CHAPTER 5.81
RELATING TO ART MURALS ON PRIVATE PROPERTY
This item was removed from the agenda.
E. REQUEST FOR COUNCIL INPUT ON DESERT COMMUNITY ENERGY
OPTIONS FOR LOW-INCOME CUSTOMERS AND CARBON FREE PRODUCT
Katie Barrows, Desert Community Energy, narrated a PowerPoint presentation and
responded to City Council inquiries.
In response to City Council inquiries, Councilmember Kors advised that DCE’s outreach
efforts resulted in an increase of customers signing up for the California Alternate Rates
for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA); advised that the DCE
Board will consider whether additional outreach efforts are needed to ensure customers are
aware of the rate options and CARE and FERA programs.
During the course of discussion, the City Council agreed that DCE should: 1) transition
California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) and Family Electric Rate Assistance
(FERA) customers to the Desert Saver rate, 2) move forward with the Bill Assistance
Program, and 3) modify the Carbon Free environmental goals as outlined in the staff report.
CITY COUNCIL AND CITY MANAGER REQUESTS AND UPCOMING AGENDA
DEVELOPMENT:
Councilmember Kors requested that staff agendize consideration of supporting Assembly
Bill 1400; requested that staff agendize Board and Commission meeting minutes for receive and
file on a monthly basis; requested that staff agendize discussion regarding the restaurant parklets
and outdoor merchandise displays.
City Council Minutes April 8, 2021
City of Palm Springs Page 16
Councilmember Garner requested that staff agendize discussion regarding the City’s Noise
Ordinance prior to June 2021 and requested that staff schedule a City Council Goal Setting/Vision
Setting session.
Councilmember Woods requested that staff include consideration of instituting an annual dinner
for Boards and Commission or a rotating presentation at City Council meetings as part of the study
session on Boards and Commissions.
Mayor Holstege requested that staff agendize the naming of the dog park after retired City Manager
David H. Ready and noted that a business owner has requested that the City Council consider
expanding the categories for the City’s business assistance program, noting that the Business Task
Force will consider the request.
City Manager Clifton spoke about an opportunity to visit with staff relative to agenda development
and organizing a long-term calendar; noted his desire to participate in future goal setting sessions
and addressed the need to discuss how items are prioritized on City Council agendas.
ADJOURNMENT:
The City Council adjourned at 11:47 p.m., in memory of Robert Imber, Cora Crawford, Jim Gross,
and Peter Maietta.
Respectfully submitted,
Anthony J. Mejia, MMC
City Clerk
APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL: 09/09/2021