HomeMy WebLinkAbout2003 - MINUTES - 7/2/2003 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JULY 2, 2003 ' 1
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, was called to
order by Mayor Kleindienst, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on
Wednesday, July 2, 2003, at 5:30 p.m., at which time, the City Attorney announced items
to be discussed in Closed Session, and at 7:00 p.m., the meeting was convened in open
session.
ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Mills, Oden, Reller-Spurgin, and Mayor
Kleindienst
Absent: Councilmember Hodges
The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag, and an invocation by Father Andrew
Green Church of St. Paul in the Desert.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in
accordance with Council procedures on June 27, 2003.
REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All
Entities) - See items on Page 8 of agenda this date.
PRESENTATIONS: Swear-in Police Officer Ranae Dallas
HOUSING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY: FINANCING
AUTHORITY: - No Business
COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: Mayor declared the meeting adjourned for
the purpose of convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency; after which,
members reconvened as the City Council,
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
Dr. McKinney expressed appreciation for increase in time allowed for feeding at the Frey
Building; and added that there has been an increase in the feeding of the poor.
Latifa Klitzner, Ramon Mobile Home Park, stated that the item pertaining to rent control
should have been passed by the Council; that most mobile home folks are voters; that
most live on fixed incomes; and questioned the date for the next proposed ordinance to
be discussed.
City Manager stated July 16, 2003.
Hal Stone, discussed past zoning issues with the airport and requested the City
Manager and Executive Director of Airports review lands impacted; that no one was
notified of the Hearings; and that no one has discussed the problems the homeowners
are facing.
APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA: Items 1 thru 11.
Review by City Manager of Consent Items to be clarified.
Councilmember Mills requested item 8 be clarified.
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 2
City Engineer stated that plans were received this date for the project; that the
plans have not been fully reviewed to verify consistency to the plans previously
reviewed in study session; that there has been some breakout of improvements
of East Palm Canyon to assist with budget issues; and that some of the
improvements on Tahquitz Canyon Way have been eliminated.
Councilmember Mills questioned if the property owner submitted drawings.
City Engineer stated that this date the property owner's sidewalk work plans were
submitted.
Director of Downtown Development stated that developer is not repaving the
area; that plans for our portion of the project are complete, but are exceeding
budget due to handicap walls and additional landscaping; that some areas were
deleted to get closer to budget; that review of developers plans indicate removing
the trellis and replacing with tile, with minimal paver work and treatment; and
under theory it will be torn up again in a few years; that plans are not complete;
the elevations, colors, awnings are not submitted yet.
Councilmember Mills stated that what the City ends up with is missing trellis;
new landscaping by the City, a storefront that looks like it did 20 years ago and
patched tile work. .
Mayor questioned whether the tile would be removed and patched or newly
done.
Director of Downtown Development stated that the patchwork would be there at
least five years but that it would be complete and look like a unified project.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that the work is in the summer season;
and questioned the status of the present tenants.
Director of Downtown Development stated that the work would be complete by
November 10, 2003; that the bid must be awarded by July 30, 2003, with
demolition performed in the months of August and September; that the
improvements will occur September through December; that the owner is
working with the tenants and it is not clear what the final determination on
location will be; and that all trellis' will be removed.
Mayor expressed support for the project on the City side; that the developer of
the center has his own obligations and plans; but that overall the project is a
benefit for the community.
Councilmember Mills expressed support of the project based on the past history
of Mr. Wessman doing a good job in previous developments in the City.
' It was moved by Oden, seconded by Reller-Spurgin and unanimously carried, Hodges
absent, that items 1 through 11, excluding item 7 and 10 be adopted.
1. Approval of Minutes May 27, June 2, 4, 11 and 11, 2003. Oden abstain on 5-27-
03 and Reller-Spurgin abstain on 6-2-03.
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 3
2. MO 7333 approving a lease with Palm Springs Unified School District for a
hangar lease located at the Palm Springs International Airport for a term through
June 30, 2005 at a lease monthly rate of$1,993.95. A4729. Mills abstain due to
business client.
3. MO 7334 approving Amendment 3 to A4334 with Simat, Helliesen & Eichner, Inc
for an additional one-year term for air service development and marketing for
$125,000.
4. MIO 7335 approving Amendment 1 to A4605 with Motorola Communications for
maintenance support of the Motorola 800 Mhz radio system for an additional
one-year term (FY 2003-04) for $75,002.
5. Res 20643 approving a time extension for one year for Case 5.0870, PD268
request by Ernest G. Noia, for property located on 273 acre site at the
intersection of Crossley Road and Mesquite Avenue. W-M-1, M-1 and W zones,
Section 20.
6. Res 20644 approving a time extension to September 18, 2006 for Tentative Tract
Map 29788 request by Barbara Foster Henderson for a lot subdivision of 4.71
gross acres located between Ramon Road and Sunny Dunes Road, west of La
Mirada Road, R-1-A zone, Section 22.
7. MO 7336 approving agreement with J. Cardenas Construction for the Racquet
Club Road sidewalk project for $78,638.50. CP02-09. A4730. Mills abstain due
to proximity of residence.
8. SEE EXTENDED CONSENT AGENDA
9. MO 7337 authorizing the City Manager to execute a purchase order for natural
gas for a term of 24 months, beginning September 1, 2003.
10. Res ------- approving Final Map 30941 for Mainiero, Smith & Associates
representing Palm Springs Modern Homes II to subdivide property located at
1450 and 1500 East Baristo Road, T4S, R4E, Section 14. A------. Cont'd to 7-16-
03
11. Res 20645 and 20646 approving Payroll Warrants and Claims & Demands.
Note abstentions, if any:
Councilmember Warrant# Payee Particular Nature of Conflict
Reller-Spurgin 989022 Spouse
Mills 989031 Business related
EXTENDED CONSENT AGENDA:
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 4
' 7. RACQUET CLUB SIDEWALK PROJECT
Councilmember Mills declared Conflict of Interest due to proximity of residence
and exited the Chamber.
Councilmember Oden declared Conflict of Interest due to proximity of residence
and requalified to vote.
City Engineer reviewed the staff report.
Minute Order 7338 approving agreement with J. Cardenas Construction for the
Racquet Club Road sidewalk project for $78,638.50. CP02-09 was presented;
after which, it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Kleindienst and
unanimously carried, Hodges absent and Mills abstain, that MO7338 be adopted.
Councilmember Mills reentered the Chamber at this time.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
12. AIRPORT MASTER PLAN UPDATE —CS 5.0438
Mayor declared Conflict of Interest due to FPPC ruling and exited the Chamber.
' On June 18, 2003 staff continued this item for approval of Case 5.0438 Airport
Master Plan update and mitigated negative declaration for property located at
3400 E. Tahquitz Canyon Way, Zone A, 0, M-1, M-1-P, W-A, and CC, Section 7,
12, 13 and 18.
Director of Planning & Zoning reviewed the staff report.
Executive Director — Airports reviewed summary plan handout, copy on file in
Office of the City Clerk.
Mayor declared the Hearing open.
Hal Stone, Palm Springs, stated that he was on the committee to discuss the
potential master plan, but was not notified of the last few meetings; that he was
excluded from the planning sessions and final hearings; that Alternative 1 & 2
indicate new construction located behind the residential homes; that Alternative 2
indicates hangers being built, instead of Civic Drive located behind the houses;
that Civic Drive is proposed to be moved behind the rental car facilities; that in
any case Civic Drive will end and lack 100 feet in connecting; that the noise
would be 300-400 feet away from homes; that the FAA generally does not allow
anything to be built on land other than airport facilities; that Civic Road is used by
the public and with the new Alternative would be blocked; that the residents are
running out of patience; that since 1960 the residents have been trying to get the
problem solved regarding the walls and no landscaping; that the situation is not
right; that it does not make any sense in the proposed master plan to put a
portion of a street in and not connect it to the existing street; that if the street
connected, the result would eliminate all traffic noise; and that right now noise is
out of control and urged denial of master plan.
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 5
There being no further appearances, the Hearing was closed.
Executive Director — Airports stated that it is not clear why Mr. Stone was not
notified; that the notice was mailed; that documents with alternatives were used
in the planning process; that two alternatives did not work; that the land use
includes an apron and hangers and has not changed; that the project to buffer
the noise has been changed to try to improve the situation; and that there will be
no stub of Civic Drive; but that the recommendation for the rerouting of Civic
would not work due to existing leases and the necessity of relocating the fuel
farm and rental car agencies.
Councilmember Mills stated that when the reroute was originally done, the buffer
zone was to be landscaped and maintained by the City; that the City has been
remiss in the installation and maintenance; that the proposal includes an 8 foot
masonry wall and that the plan will cost an estimated $500,000.
Resolution 20647 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by
Mills, seconded by Reller-Spurgin and unanimously carried, Hodges and
Kleindienst abstain, that R20647 be adopted.
Mayor reentered the Chamber at this point.
13. T'TM 31256 —Cs 3.2349 —ALEJO/CABALLEROS, LLC
On June 18, 2003 staff continued this item for approval of Tentative Tract Map
31256 for the construction of 14 condominium units and associated on and off-
site improvements for property located at 977 Alejo Road. Section 14, Zone
RGA. Applicant Alejo/Caballeros, LLC. 65 Notices mailed.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin declared Conflict of Interest due to proximity of
residence and exited the Chamber.
Director of Planning & Zoning reviewed the staff report and visual plans on
display in chamber.
Mlayor declared the Hearing open.
Dennis Greyman, applicant, stated that the exit to Avenida Caballeros is
emergency exit only.
There being no further appearances, the Hearing was closed.
Resolution 20648 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by
Cden, seconded by Mills and unanimously carried, Hodges absent and Reller-
Spurgin abstain, that R20648 be adopted.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin reentered the chamber at this point.
14. APPEAL— CS 5.0827, RALPHS/SAV-ON SIGNAGE
On May 27, 2003 Herb Lundin filed an appeal of the Planning Commission
decision denying joint monument signing of Ralphs and SavOn signage to be
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 6
' constructed on both Sunrise Way and Ramon Road locations; on May 29, 2003
Frank Tysen filed an appeal of Planning Commission decision to allow face and
halo illumination of the main Ralph's and Sav-On building signs. The City
Council may uphold, override or modify the decision of the Planning Commission.
At the conclusion of the public hearing, direction is needed for staff to prepare a
resolution of the Council's decision at its next meeting.
Director of Planning & Zoning reviewed the staff report and visual site plans on
display in the Chamber.
Mayor declared the Hearing open.
Frank Tysen, Palm Springs, stated that many of the design issues have been
resolved; that there is concern on type of illumination; that the night lighting
seems excessive; that the signage should not spoil the architecture; that the
solution found for Jack In The Box was a good compromise; and reviewed a
letter as on file in the Office of the City Clerk.
Mr. Beaver, applicant, expressed anticipation as the opening is getting closer;
that there are other tenants that have signed on such as Panda Express, Curves,
Video Depot and others; that the soft opening is planned for July 30; that Mr.
Tysen was worked along side the architect, Mr. Cioffi throughout the process;
that the signage color was approved by Planning Commission; that it is
requested the Planning Commission decision be affirmed; that there are only 28
days to opening; that the other issue is the monument name of Ralphs Savon
Center; that the City has established a precedence to naming centers for the
anchor tenant; that this center has two major anchors; that most other grocery
and major tenants in City as so named; that for instance the center at Smoke
Tree is named Ralphs Longs Smoketree Center; that this project is the same as
is Staters Dairy Queen, or Albertsons Drugstore center; that the name is
consistent in keeping with other grocery centers and requested approval of
monument name as Ralphs Savon.
Mike Redd, Ralphs Savon real estate department, stated that as a practical
matter people will refer to this as the Ralphs Savon center; that the City has
approved like names in the past; that this location will be the first full service
Savon in town; that the grand opening is anticipated to occur in late September
and that consideration of the signage program is appreciated.
Laura Hiness, Ralphs Savon real estate department, stated that the signage was
needed; that the Ralphs store has located many years at the present location;
that the grand opening is in jeopardy due to the delay of signage and requested
approval of the sign program.
Lloyd Francis, sign contractor, stated that the sign is low key; that the red does
not illuminate like neon red; that the backlight is white; and that this is the same
sign as used at Pacific Palisades; and other Southern California areas.
There being no further appearances the Hearing was closed.
Resolution 20649 upholding the Planning Commission decision regarding colors
and overruling Planning Commission on name of monument sign and find the
Council Minutes
07-02-03, IPage 7
centers name is Ralphs Savon was presented; after which, it was moved by Mils,
seconded by Oden and carried by the following vote that R20649 be adopted.
AYES: Members Mills, Oden and Reller-Spurgin
NO: Mayor Kleindienst
A13SENT: Member Hodges
COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS/INTERAGENCY REPORTS:
Councilmembers reported on various civic and community organizational
meetings and events which they attended, subsequent to the last regular
meeting, and announced upcoming events of community interest.
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
15. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT— DRUG PARAPHERNALIA
SECOND READING & ADOPTION — CHAPTER 11.92 (Intro 6-18-03)
City Clerk read Title of Ordinance 1629 as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
REPEALING CHAPTER 11.92 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
RELATING TO THE DISPLAY AND SALE OF DRUG PARAPHERNALIA
after which; it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Oden and
unanimously carried, Hodges absent, that Ordinance 1629 be adopted.
16. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT- SEWERS
Recommendation: That the Council amend Section 15.14.020 of Title 15 of the
Palm Springs Municipal Code clarifying conditions of requiring connection of
existing buildings to the public sewer; repeal Resolution 15188 and re-establish
policy for the granting of exemptions of residential properties from connection to
the public sewer system.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin declared Conflict of Interest due to work relations
and exited the Chamber.
Director of Public Works/City Engineer reviewed staff report.
Resolution 20650 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by
Oden, seconded by Mills and unanimously carried, Hodges and Reller-Spurgin
absent, that R20650 be adopted.
City Clerk read Title of Ordinance as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING SECTION 15.14.020 TO THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
TO CLARIFY CONDITIONS REQUIRING CONNECTION OF EXISTING
BUILDINGS TO THE PUBLIC SEWER
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 8
after which; it was moved by Oden, seconded by Mills and unanimously carried
by the following vote that further reading be waived and the Ordinance be
introduced for first reading.
17. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - RENT
Recommendation: That the Council find and declare the urgency of the addition
of Section 4.08.136 to the Palm Springs Municipal Code relating to the
conversion of rental mobile home parks to resident ownership; and introduce for
first reading the same amendment.
City Attorney withdrew the item.
18. RESOLUTION OF CONVENIENCE & NECESSITY — STRINGSTONE
ENTERPRISES dba THE HOUSE OF NINJA
Recommendation: That the Council approve a Resolution of Convenience and
Necessity for a type 41 liquor license for a new restaurant located at 707 North
Palm Canyon Drive, Zone C-1, Section 10. Applicant Stringstone Enterprises.
Director of Planning & Zoning reviewed the staff report.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that support cannot be leant to approving
the use of alcohol.
Resolution 20651 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved by
Mills, seconded by Oden and carried by the following vote, that R20651 be
adopted.
AYES: Members Mills, Oden and Mayor Kleindienst
NO: Member Reller-Spurgin
ABSENT: Member Hodges
19. 2002-03 FISCAL YEAR CONTINUING APPROPRIATIONS
Recommendation: That the Council authorize the continuation of appropriations
from fiscal year 2002-03 budget for projects not completed.
Director of Finance & Treasurer reviewed the staff report.
Resolution 20652 as revised to include Visitor Center funding was presented;
after which, it was moved by Mills, seconded by Oden and unanimously carried,
Hodges absent, that R20652 be adopted.
Councilmember Mills declared Conflict of Interest and exited the Chamber.
Resolution 20653 approving funding for Racquet Club sidewalk funds was
presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Reller-Spurgin and
unanimously carried, Hodges and Milts absent that R20653 be adopted.
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 9
20. VILLAGEFEST RULES AND REGULATIONS
Recommendation: That the Council approve various amendments to the
VillageFest Rules and Regulations.
Director of Downtown Development Center reviewed the staff report.
Minute Order 7339 as recommended was presented; after which, it was moved
by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Oden and unanimously carried, Hodges absent,
that MO7339 be adopted.
21. 2003 SPECIAL MUNICIPAL ELECTION — BALLOT MEASURE
Recommendation: That the Council call a Special Election to be consolidated
with the General Municipal Election relating to the placement of a ballot measure
on the November 4, 2003 for the purpose of an increase to Transient Occupancy
Tax for group meeting hotels; and designate authors to file written arguments.
a) City Manager withdrew the item.
22. PARKWAYS MAINTENANCE DISTRICT NO. 10
Recommendation: That the Council approve the spread of annual assessments
and confirm the Engineer's report, diagram and assessment spread for the
Formation of Parkways Maintenance District 10 (Mountain Gate, Tract 30963)
located at North Palm Canyon Drive & Gateway Drive with associated Tract
parkways & off-site landscape for fiscal year 2003-04. PMD 10.
City Manager withdrew the item.
23. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS: None.
ADDED STARTERS: None
REPORTS & REQUESTS:
CITY,COUNCIL reports or requests
Councilmember Oden requested that issues regarding resale restrictions and
Taxicab advertising be considered at the next meeting; and requested
clarification on the use of a City vehicle by the Assistant City Manager.
City Manager stated that the vehicle purchased for use by the Assistant City
Manager was actually allocated to the Police Department for use by the family
intervention officer.
Councilmember Oden questioned if the City does purchase vehicles for use of
the Assistant City Manager.
City Manager affirmed.
Council Minutes
07-02-03, Page 10
Mayor requested that parking downtown and participation in the Valley-wide
Animal Shelter be considered at the next meeting.
Councilmember Mills requested a report on the status and goals of the homeless
task force.
24. Filing of 20 Nuisance Abatement Proceeding & Accounting reports and setting
hearing for July 30, 2003.
PUBLIC reports or requests
STAFF reports or requests
ADJOURNMENT:
There being no further busine Mayor decla the(meeting adjourned.
PATRICIA A. SANDERS
City Clerk