HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-02-27 CC MINUTESThursday, February 27, 2020
Minutes of the Regular Meeting of the City Council
of the City of Palm Springs
CALL TO ORDER:
A Regular Meeting of the Palm Springs City Council was called to order by Mayor Kors on
Thursday, February 27, 2020, at 6:10 p.m., in the Council Chamber, City Hall, located at
3200 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs, California.
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE:
Mayor Kors led the Pledge of Allegiance.
ROLL CALL:
Present: Councilmembers Grace Elena Garner, Lisa Middleton, Dennis Woods; Mayor Pro
Tem Christy Holstege; and Mayor Geoff Kors
Absent: None.
City Staff
Present: David H. Ready, 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:
Mayor Kors and the City Council presented a Proclamation to Mary Jo Ginther, Director of
Tourism with the Palm Springs Bureau of Tourism, in recognition of her 14 years of service with
the City of Palm Springs.
Ann Mayer, Executive Director of Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC),
narrated a PowerPoint presentation regarding their draft Traffic Relief Plan.
ACCEPTANCE OF THE AGENDA:
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER MIDDLETON, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM
HOLSTEGE, CARRIED 5-0, to remove Consent Calendar Item Nos. 1C, 1F, 1I, 1M, 1N, and 1O
for separate discussion and deletion of Item No. 5B from the agenda.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 2
REPORT OF CLOSED SESSION:
The Regular Closed Session of the City Council of February 27, 2020, was called to order by
Mayor Kors at 3:30 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):
4328 Lockwood Avenue v. City of Palm Springs,
Case No. RIC 1703102, Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside
David Edwin Bell v. City of Palm Springs,
Case No RIC 1901178, Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside
Mariposa Landscapes, Inc. v. City of Palm Springs,
Case No. PSC1902404, Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside
City of Palm Springs v. O&M HR LLC , et al (Prairie Schooner),
Case No. PSC1701804, Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside
City of Huntington Beach v. Xavier Bacerra
Case No. G057013, Superior Court of the State of California, County of Riverside
CONFERENCE WITH LEGAL COUNSEL – MATTERS CREATING SIGNIFICANT
EXPOSURE TO LITIGATION, Pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.9(d)(2):
Seven (7) 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 five (5) matters the City Council has
decided or may decide to initiate litigation.
PUBLIC EMPLOYEE PERFORMANCE EVALUATION, Pursuant to Government Code Section
54957(b)(1):
City Manager
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 3
CONFERENCE WITH REAL PROPERTY NEGOTIATOR, Pursuant to Government Code
Section 54956.8:
Property Address/Description: 225 El Cielo Road, Palm Springs CA
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Tom Kirk, Coachella Valley Association of Governments
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Lease)
Property Address/Description: 3400 Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs (portions
of airport)
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Chief Planning and Development Officer,
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Lease)
Property Address/Description: APN 502-210-023 (2-acre portion located at the
northwest corner of East Baristo Rd. and El Cielo Rd.)
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Lease)
Property Address/Description: 505-182-010 and 505-182-004 (Adjacent parcels
located at the southwest corner of North Palm
Canyon Drive and Stevens Road)
Agency: City of Palm Springs and Successor Agency of the
Former Redevelopment Agency of the City of
Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Sale)
Property Address/Description: 3.6 Acres at SE corner of Indian Canyon Drive and
San Rafael Road, APN 501-031-028
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 (Sale)
Property Address/Description: 233 West Tramview Road (APN 501-401-010)
Agency: Palm Springs Housing Successor Agency
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Sale)
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 4
Property Address/Description: APN 501-401-039 (El Dorado Boulevard)
Agency: Palm Springs Housing Successor Agency
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties:
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Sale)
Property Address/Description: 980 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Palm Springs CA
Agency: City of Palm Springs
City Negotiator: David H. Ready, City Manager or Designee
Negotiating Parties: Chief Planning and Development Officer,
Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
Under Negotiation: Price and Terms of Payment (Sale)
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; noted
that the City Council directed staff to take additional enforcement actions against the Tova Hotel.
PUBLIC TESTIMONY:
The following individuals spoke in support of Item No. 3A and urged the City Council to adopt
the proposed ordinance related to animal breed permit regulations:
• Tiffani Lobue
• Cathy Wolff
• Jeanne Bourgeois
• Dr. Silva Nagg, Medical Director, Palm Springs Animal Shelter
• Bill Ruttan, read a letter by Tamara Hedges
• Bonnie Ruttan
• Jana Hayes, Board Member, Palm Springs Animal Shelter
• Claire J. Grant
• Marta Jara-Rheda
• Ginny Foat
• Gabriella Amster, Executive Director, Palm Springs Animal Shelter
• Michelle Avalos
The following individuals spoke in opposition to Item No. 3A and urged the City Council to reject
the proposed ordinance related to animal breed permit regulations:
• William Christensen
• Will Comparsi
• Terry Toussaint, representing The Kennel Club of Palm Springs
• Tim Murphy, representing The Cat Fancy
• Kreg Hill
• Darryl Vice
• Garret Demarest
• Carol Silverberg
• Karen Dorn
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 5
The following individuals spoke in support of Item No. 5A and urged the City Council to move
forward with Community Workforce Agreements and/or Labor Peace Agreements:
• Carina Romero, representing Global Go Consulting
• Brian Caris, representing Granite Construction
• Bill Perez, representing the Building and Construction Trades Council
• Aron Velarde, representing UFCW Local 1167
• Sal Amezquita
• Laura Amezquita
• John Light, representing Laborers Local 784
• Nick Barriet
• Tony De Trinidad, representing Painters and Allied Trades Regional Council 36
• Joe Whitcher, representing Sheetmetal Workers Local 105
David Gray, speaking on Item 4A, voiced support for moving forward with developing conceptual
plans for redevelopment of Sunrise Plaza; recommended that the Library Board and Measure J
Oversight Commission establish a working group to help guide the project.
Paul Hinrichsen, speaking on Items 1I and 1O, voiced opposition to the proposed cannabis lounge,
citing concern that a residential development is within proximity of the proposed lounge;
recommended that staff develop temporary City Hall parking permits.
Naomi Soto, speaking on Items 4A and 4B, voiced support for moving forward with the Sunrise
Plaza redevelopment and creating a Youth Council.
Tobias Wolff, speaking on Item 4C, voiced support for the CVRA Working Group
recommendations.
Darryl Flick, speaking on Item 1N, representing the VillageFest Board, urged the City Council to
support the VillageFest Board’s request for a waiver related to meeting times, citing potential
impacts to traveling artisans and Board Members.
Daniel Gonnella, speaking on Item 1N, representing the VillageFest Board, concurred with
Mr. Flick’s comments, noting that the new meeting time may require artisans to pay for childcare
and travel during rush hour to attend a meeting.
Kathy Weremuik, speaking on Item 4A and 4C, recommended that the Library’s customer service
staff be included in a working group assisting with the redevelopment of Sunrise Plaza; voiced
support for the CVRA Working Group recommendations.
Ryan Mierau, speaking on Item 1I, Applicant, urged the City Council to approve his proposed
cannabis lounge.
Stephen Moses, speaking on Item 4C, expressed support for the CVRA Working Group
recommendations.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 6
CITY COUNCIL, SUBCOMMITTEE, AND CITY MANAGER'S COMMENTS AND
REPORTS:
City Manager Ready provided an update regarding the Andaz Project, noting a new financing
entity is finalizing legalities and construction is expected to commence within 30-60 days, with an
end-of-year completion. The City Council requested that the City Attorney review the deadlines
outlined in the existing enforcement action.
Assistant City Manager Fuller presented an update of the Downtown Park Project and the
Welwood Murray Library restoration project, noting that certain trees will be removed around the
Library to restore it to the original landscape plan.
Councilmember Middleton commended former Councilmember Roberts, Mayor Moon and Nancy
Sinatra on a successful Plaza Theater fundraising event; provided an update on her attendance at
recent meetings and events; presented an update on SunLine Transit Agency.
Councilmember Garner encouraged the community to attend the Black History Parade and Town
Fair in the downtown this upcoming weekend.
Mayor Pro Tem Holstege noted that the Coachella Valley Association of Governments (CVAG)
has requested partnering agencies to include funding for the CV Housing First Program as part of
its annual budget process; requested that the City’s Census Outreach Committee make a
presentation at a future City Council meeting; noted that there is a call for action for Coachella
Valley cities to identify at least one unit of bridge or cross-stabilization housing; encouraged
residents to apply to serve on the City’s Boards and Commissions.
Councilmember Woods reported on his attendance at regional meetings and events; requested that
an evaluation of bus stops located within the City be addressed during the General Plan update;
spoke on the need to provide amenities at workplaces so that people can commute on bicycles.
Mayor Kors reported that County Supervisor Perez may introduce legislation which would enable
the CVAG to place a sales tax measure on a future ballot; advised that City has requested three
mobile trailers from the County to serve as transitional housing units for the homeless; requested
that the City send its own notice to all residents explaining Desert Community Energy and the
different rate options.
1. CONSENT CALENDAR:
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the consent calendar, with the removal of Item
Nos. 1C, 1F, 1I, 1M, 1N, and 1O for separate discussion.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 7
A. APPROVAL OF MINUTES
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to approve the City Council Meeting Minutes of January 29, 2020.
B. APPROVAL OF PAYROLL WARRANTS, CLAIMS AND DEMANDS
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24726 entitled, “A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
APPROVING PAYMENT OF PAYROLL WARRANTS FOR THE PERIOD ENDING
02-08-2020 BY WARRANTS NUMBERED 420980 THROUGH 420988 TOTALING
$18,862.52 CLAIMS, DEMANDS AND LIABILITY CHECKS NUMBERED 1111520
THROUGH 1111807 TOTALING $4,823,559.54, FOUR WIRE TRANSFERS FOR
$72,126.19, AND FIVE ELECTRONIC ACH DEBITS OF $1,655,142.20 IN THE
AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF $6,569,690.45, DRAWN ON BANK OF AMERICA."
C. REVIEW OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS GENERAL PLAN LIMITED
UPDATE PROCESS AND SCHEDULE
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 10 of these
minutes for a summary of that action.
D. AUTHORIZE ISSUANCE OF A PURCHASE ORDER TO DEL'S FLOORING
CONTRACTORS, INC., FOR REPLACEMENT WALL TREATMENTS FOR THE
DOG ISOLATION KENNELS, SUITES AND HALLWAYS AT THE PALM
SPRINGS ANIMAL SHELTER
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Waive the City's bidding procedures and authorize purchase and installation of
replacement wall treatments at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter pursuant to Section
7.04.020 "Sole Source Procurement by the City" of the Palm Springs Municipal Code.
2. Authorize a Purchase Order in an amount of $80,321 to Del's Flooring Contractors, Inc.
of Palm Desert, CA for the replacement wall treatments in the dog kennels, suites and
isolation wards at the Palm Springs Animal Shelter.
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 8
E. APPROVE AGREEMENT FOR COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT BLOCK
GRANT (CDBG) PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION WITH THE RAMSAY GROUP
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Authorize the City Manager to execute a Contract Service Agreement with the Ramsay
Group for three years, plus two one-year options, in an amount not to exceed $87,000
per year to assist with CDBG program administration.
2. Authorize the City Manager or his designee to execute all necessary documents.
F. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEARS 2019-20 AND
2020-21 FOR PUBLICATION OF PUBLIC NOTICES, DOCUMENT
TRANSLATION SERVICES, AND ON-CALL INTERPRETER SERVICES
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 10 of these
minutes for a summary of that action.
G. TREASURER’S INVESTMENT REPORT AS OF DECEMBER 2019
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to receive and file the Treasurer’s Investment Report as of
December 31, 2019.
H. AWARD A CONSTRUCTION CONTRACT TO ABC LIOVIN DRILLING, INC., A
CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, IN THE AMOUNT OF $390,000 FOR
GROUNDWATER MONITORING WELLS FOR THE WASTEWATER
TREATMENT PLANT REQUIRED TO COMPLY WITH THE COLORADO
RIVER REGIONAL WATER QUALITY CONTROL BOARD ORDER R7- 2017-
0013, CITY PROJECT NO. 19-20
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Award a construction contract to ABC Liovin Drilling, Inc., a California corporation,
in the amount of $390,000 for Groundwater Monitoring Wells for the Wastewater
Treatment Plant, City Project No. 19-20.
2. Delegate authority to the City Manager to approve and execute construction contract
change orders up to $39,000 with all change orders reported to the City Council.
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 9
I. SB NEW HEIGHTS, LLC (DBA: THE ROW HOUSE) GRANTING AN
ADMINISTRATIVE MINOR MODIFICATION FOR RELIEF FROM THE
MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE REQUIREMENT FOR A CANNABIS
DISPENSARY/ LOUNGE AND APPROVING ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW AT
2500 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 7 .1592 AMM AND 3.2090 MAA)
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 11 of these
minutes for a summary of that action.
J. STAFF AUTHORIZED AGREEMENTS AND PURCHASE ORDERS FOR THE
MONTH OF JANUARY
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to receive and file the report of Staff Authorized Agreements
and Purchase Orders for the period of January 1, 2020 through January 31, 2020.
K. APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT NO. 2 TO PROFESSIONAL SERVICES
AGREEMENT NO. 7109, WITH ADVANTEC CONSULTING ENGINEERS, INC.,
A CALIFORNIA CORPORATION, FOR ADDITIONAL ENGINEERING DESIGN
SERVICES FOR THE HIGHWAY SAFETY IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM (HSIP)
CYCLE 8 TRAFFIC SIGNAL MODIFICATIONS, FEDERAL-AID PROJECT NO.
HSIPLN-5282(047) AND INSTALLATION OF A FLASHING BEACON,
FEDERAL-AID PROJECT NO. HSIPL-5282(048), CITY PROJECT NO. 16-18
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Approve Amendment No. 2, in the amount of $28,965, to Professional Services
Agreement No. 7109, for a new not to exceed amount of $462,109 with Advantec
Consulting Engineers, Inc.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
L. APPROVE CONTRACT SERVICES AGREEMENTS WITH ECS IMAGING,
INC., FOR ENTERPRISE CONTENT MANAGEMENT SYSTEM,
IMPLEMENTATION SERVICES, AND CONVERSION OF POLICE
DEPARTMENT RECORDS
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Approve a Cooperative Contract Services Agreement with ECS Imaging, Inc., for an
initial purchase amount of $140,725, plus a 10% contingency, and $19,100 annually
thereafter for an initial term of three years with two, one-year optional renewals.
(City Council action continued on the next page)
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 10
2. Waive the competitive bidding requirements of the Procurement Ordinance, and
authorize the Contract Services Agreement with ECS Imaging, Inc., in the amount not-
to-exceed $128,132.50, plus a 10% contingency, for document scanning and indexing
services for Police Department records.
3. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
M. AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING DATES AND TIMES
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 9 of these minutes
for a summary of that action.
N. VILLAGEFEST BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING DATES AND TIMES
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 9 of these minutes
for a summary of that action.
O. IMPLEMENTATION OF 3 HOUR TIME-LIMIT PARKING REGULATIONS
AND EMPLOYEE PERMIT PARKING AT THE CITY HALL PARKING LOT
This item was excluded from the Consent Calendar. Please refer to Page 9 of these minutes
for a summary of that action.
EXCLUDED CONSENT CALENDAR:
C. REVIEW OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS GENERAL PLAN LIMITED
UPDATE PROCESS AND SCHEDULE
Director of Planning Services Fagg presented the staff report.
Following discussion, the City Council received and filed the report on the General Plan
limited update process and schedule.
F. RESOLUTION AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEARS 2019-20 AND
2020-21 FOR PUBLICATION OF PUBLIC NOTICES, DOCUMENT
TRANSLATION SERVICES, AND ON-CALL INTERPRETER SERVICES
City Clerk Mejia presented the staff report.
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
GARNER, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24727 entitled, "A RESOLUTION OF
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE BUDGET FOR FISCAL YEARS 2019-20 AND 2020-21."
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 11
I. SB NEW HEIGHTS, LLC (DBA: THE ROW HOUSE) GRANTING AN
ADMINISTRATIVE MINOR MODIFICATION FOR RELIEF FROM THE
MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE REQUIREMENT FOR A CANNABIS
DISPENSARY/ LOUNGE AND APPROVING ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW AT
2500 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE (CASE 7 .1592 AMM AND 3.2090 MAA)
Director of Planning Services Fagg presented the staff report.
Following discussion, MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER WOODS, SECOND BY
COUNCILMEMBER MIDDLETON, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24728 entitled,
"A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, GRANTING AN ADMINISTRATIVE MINOR MODIFICATION FOR
RELIEF FROM THE MINIMUM SEPARATION DISTANCE REQUIREMENT FOR A
CANNABIS DISPENSARY/ LOUNGE AND APPROVING ARCHITECTURE REVIEW
LOCATED AT 2500 NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE, UNITS D1/D4," as amended to
add a Condition of Approval that exterior artwork shall be provided, subject to approval of the
Director of Planning Services.
M. AIRPORT COMMISSION MEETING DATES AND TIMES
City Manager Ready presented the staff report.
During the course of discussion, the City Council stressed the importance of increasing
accessibility for the public to attend Board and Commission meetings, noting that any
requests for waivers of the new meeting time will need to be compelling in nature.
The City Council denied the Airport Commission’s request to maintain the current meeting
schedule of 8 a.m. on the second Wednesday of each month.
N. VILLAGEFEST BOARD OF DIRECTOR MEETING DATES AND TIMES
Following discussion, the City Council denied the VillageFest Board’s request to maintain
the current meeting schedule of 3:30 pm on the second and fourth Tuesday of each month.
O. IMPLEMENTATION OF 3 HOUR TIME-LIMIT PARKING REGULATIONS
AND EMPLOYEE PERMIT PARKING AT THE CITY HALL PARKING LOT
Assistant City Manager Fuller presented the staff report.
The City Council requested that staff notify adjacent businesses of the change in parking
regulations and create temporary parking permits for visitors who will be at City Hall
longer than three hours.
(City Council action continued on the next page)
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 12
MOTION BY COUNCILMEMBER WOODS, SECOND BY MAYOR PRO TEM
HOLSTEGE, CARRIED 5-0, to adopt Resolution No. 24729 entitled, "A RESOLUTION
OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
ESTABLISHING A PARKING MANAGEMENT PROGRAM FOR THE CITY HALL
PARKING LOTS, INCLUDING A MAXIMUM 3-HOUR PARKING TIME LIMIT FOR
PUBLIC PARKING SPACES, ESTABLISHING UNLIMITED PARKING FOR CITY
EMPLOYEES BY PERMIT, MAINTAINING CLOSURE OF THE CITY HALL
PARKING LOTS FROM 12:00 AM TO 6:00 AM; AND AUTHORIZING REVISIONS
TO ON-STREET PARKING REGULATIONS ON CIVIC DRIVE, AVIATION ROAD,
AND EL CIELO ROAD."
MEETING RECESS
The City Council recessed at 8:41 p.m. and reconvened at 8:50 p.m.
2. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None.
3. LEGISLATIVE:
A. PROPOSED INTRODUCTION OF AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM
SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, DELETING SECTION 10.20.060 AND 10.20.070
REGARDING REDEEMING ANIMALS AND ADDING SECTIONS 10.04.035,
10.04.040 AND 10.24.045 ESTABLISHING BREEDING PERMITS REGULATIONS
AND PENALTIES FOR VIOLATION OF THE REGULATIONS AND ADOPTING
A FEE RESOLUTION AMENDING THE FEES FOR ANIMAL LICENSING
City Attorney Jeffrey Ballinger and Councilmember Holstege presented the staff report.
In response to City Council inquiry, Gabriella Amster, Executive Director of the Palm
Springs Animal Shelter, opined there is not a medical reason that a female dog should be
bred more than once in a 12-month period, stressing the importance of population control;
summarized the typical waiting period before a stray animal is adoptable, voicing support
for reducing the period in which an owner can redeem an animal after adoption.
In response to City Council inquiry, City Attorney Ballinger advised that if the City were
to become aware of a potential violation it would seek the homeowner’s permission or a
Court Order to enter onto private property; advised that a business license should be
obtained for any business operated in Palm Springs, including animal breeding.
Councilmember Garner expressed concern regarding the increased animal licensing fees
and requested that the City Council defer action at this time.
(City Council action continued on the next page)
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 13
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
MIDDLETON, CARRIED 5-0, to introduce Ordinance No. 2018 entitled, "AN
ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
CHAPTER 10.20 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE REGARDING
IMPOUNDMENT OF ANIMALS, DELETING SECTION 10.20.060 "OWNER'S RIGHT
TO REDEEM ANIMAL FROM PURCHASER" AND SECTION 10.20.070 "OWNER'S
LIABILITY TO CITY WHEN REDEEMING ANIMAL FROM PURCHASER"; AND
AMENDING SECTION 10.20.030 AND CHAPTERS 10.04 AND 10.24 OF THE PALM
SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE ADDING REGULATIONS FOR BREEDING
PERMITS," with the following amendment:
1. Allow animals to be claimed within seven days after being impounded and to
remove the ability of prior owners to redeem their animals after they have been
impounded, but not retrieved within seven days and then adopted out.
City Clerk Mejia read the ordinance by title.
4. UNFINISHED BUSINESS:
A. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS TO PROCEED WITH CONCEPTUAL
PLANNING FOR THE SUNRISE PARK MASTER PLAN AND
REDEVELOPMENT OF THE PALM SPRINGS PUBLIC LIBRARY
City Manager Ready presented the staff report and requested that the City Council defer
action on the proposed agreement with Rios Clementi Hale Studios to allow staff an
opportunity to refine the proposed scope of work.
Councilmember Wood expressed concern with waiving the purchasing procedures for the
development of conceptual plans for the Sunrise Park Master Plan and Library; suggested
that the City should refrain from using the term “stakeholder,” noting that the whole
community has an interest in the project.
Councilmembers Garner and Middleton spoke on the importance of maintaining
momentum and moving forward with this project.
Mayor Pro Tem Holstege requested that line staff be included in the Building Program
Committee and that efforts be made to solicit online survey responses from families with
children.
MOTION BY MAYOR PRO TEM HOLSTEGE, SECOND BY COUNCILMEMBER
MIDDLETON, CARRIED 5-0, to:
1. Approve Amendment No. 3 to Agreement No. 7157 with Library Strategies Consulting
Group in the total amount of $90,000 for Phase 2 - Vision Statement and Building
Program services, for a new maximum contract amount of $189,500.
2. Authorize the City Manager to execute all necessary documents.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 14
B. DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION REGARDING BOARDS AND COMMISSIONS
AND THE ESTABLISHMENT OF A YOUTH ADVISORY COMMISSION
City Manager Ready presented the staff report.
Mayor Kors requested that staff begin setting up quarterly meetings between the Mayor,
Mayor Pro Tem, and Chairs of the boards and commissions beginning in March 2020.
Mayor Pro Tem Holstege recommended that a subcommittee of commissioners be formed
to discuss best practices for engaging all members; voiced support for establishing a Youth
Commission, suggesting that the youth should provide input on how best to structure the
proposed commission; noted that all commissioners should be encouraged to assist with
recruitment of new applicants; stated that the hiring of a Social Media Specialist could
assist with recruitment efforts.
Councilmember Garner voiced support for the establishment of a Youth Commission,
noting that it would provide an opportunity for youth to lead in our community; opined that
the City should make a concerted effort to fund recruitment outreach.
Councilmember Middleton opined that the City Council needs to increase recognition and
appreciation for board and commission members; suggested that boards and commissions
should have a larger role in making recommendations on matters of policy and community
engagement.
Councilmember Woods suggested that recruitment materials should generate excitement
about serving on boards and commissions; recommended that there should be an annual
meeting of the commissions, including video updates about the activities of each
commission.
Mayor Kors suggested that an annual recognition dinner for board and commission
members could be modeled after the Police Department’s Volunteer Recognition Dinner.
Discussion ensued regarding the possibility of scheduling a study session so that the City
Council may establish goals and priorities related to boards and commissions.
Councilmember Garner and Mayor Pro Tem Holstege volunteered to serve as liaisons to
work on improving the boards and commissions program.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 15
C. DISCUSSION AND DIRECTION REGARDING THE CALIFORNIA VOTING
RIGHTS ACT (CVRA) COMMUNITY WORKING GROUP
RECOMMENDATIONS
City Manager Ready presented the staff report.
City Clerk Mejia provided an update on the feasibility of implementing ranked choice
voting. Following discussion, the City Council requested that staff continue to monitor the
implementation of ranked choice voting and to report back once a city in Riverside County
has conducted an election.
In response to City Council inquiry, Kathy Weremuik, Co-Chair of the CVRA Community
Working Group, encouraged the City Council to move forward with recommendations
related to surveying the demographic make-up of the boards and commissions and to
charge the Human Rights Commission with monitoring the progress of diversifying the
boards and commissions.
Mayor Pro Tem Holstege spoke on the challenges of attempting to maintain a full-time
position while serving as a Councilmember, voicing support for increasing City Council
compensation; spoke on the need for a technological solution to assist with streamlining
resident requests and responses; recommended that the City seek advice from a diversity
consultant for best practices and strategies on diversifying boards and commissions.
Councilmember Middleton noted that Councilmember Garner and Mayor Pro Tem
Holstege are making significant sacrifices to their careers and earning potential to serve on
the City Council; voiced support for creating a City Council Compensation Committee to
review and make recommendations related to City Council compensation; voiced
opposition to reducing the number of signatures required for nominations.
City Clerk Mejia pointed out that any proposed increase to the City Council’s
compensation would not impact any incumbent member as the increases would be effective
after the election for each Council seat.
In response to City Council inquiry, City Manager Ready stated that he will review the
feasibility of providing the City Council with a vehicle allowance rather than mileage
reimbursement.
Councilmember Garner spoke on the need to create a welcoming environment for parents
to attend City meetings with their children and/or providing childcare.
Councilmember Garner and Middleton conveyed support for creating a citizen’s leadership
academy.
Councilmember Woods encourage staff liaisons to share information about upcoming
symposiums and conferences with their respective boards and commissions.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 16
5. NEW BUSINESS:
A. DISCUSSION REGARDING COMMUNITY WORKFORCE AGREEMENTS AND
LABOR PEACE AGREEMENTS
City Attorney Ballinger presented the staff report.
In response to City Council inquiry, Bill Perez, representing the Building and Construction
Trades Council, addressed use of a national curriculum for an apprenticeship readiness
program for youth.
During the course of discussion, the City Council voiced support for community workforce
agreements and labor peace agreements, noting that it will provide good paying, stable jobs
for local residents, help reduce traffic congestion and pollution, and may avoid stalled
development projects which can lead to labor disputes.
Councilmember Middleton questioned whether the minimum staffing requirement for a
Labor Peace Agreement should be increased to 10-employees.
Councilmember Garner and Mayor Pro Tem Holstege expressed support for establishing a
minimum of a five-employee threshold for the Labor Peace Agreement, noting that it
should be inclusive of full- and part-time employees.
In response to City Council inquiry, City Attorney Ballinger stated that he will review
whether Labor Peace Agreements can be required of other industries.
B. DISCUSSION OF COACHELLA VALLEY ASSOCIATION OF GOVERNMENTS
INITIATIVE RE: SALES TAXATION AUTHORITY
This item was deleted from the agenda at the request of staff.
PUBLIC COMMENT:
Daryl Terrell, presented and encouraged the City Council to adopt his Equal Pay Ordinance
proposal.
City Council Minutes February 27, 2020
City of Palm Springs Page 17
CITY COUNCIL AND CITY MANAGER REQUESTS AND UPCOMING AGENDA
DEVELOPMENT:
Mayor Kors requested that consideration of a bike share program, discussion and update regarding
the Walk of Stars Ordinance, and an update regarding the Coronavirus be agendized for the next
City Council meeting.
Mayor Pro Tem Holstege requested that consideration of adopting an ordinance related to plastic
food containers and straws be agendized for March 19, 2020, and requested that the elementary
school students be notified.
The City Council requested that rescheduling of the October 8th meeting be agendized for the next
City Council meeting.
ADJOURNMENT:
The City Council adjourned at 11:36 p.m., in memory of Dallas John Flicek, former Assistant City
Manager.
Respectfully submitted,
Anthony J. Mejia, MMC
City Clerk
APPROVED BY CITY COUNCIL: 03/19/2020