HomeMy WebLinkAbout6/1/1988 - MINUTES CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JUNE 1, 1988
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs,
California, was called to order by Mayor Bono, in the Council
Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz-McCallum Way, on Wednesday, June 1, 1988;_
at 7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Apfelbaum, Broich, Foster,
Neel and Mayor Bono
Absent: None
The meeting was opened with the salute to the Flag, and a moment
of silence.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA:
Report of City Clerk: The agenda was posted in accordance
with Council policy on May 27, 1988, and two additional
items were to be presented for consideration.
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 .
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
It was moved by Apfelbaum, seconded by Broich, and
unanimously carried, that the Minutes of May 18, 1988,
be approved.
PUBLIC HEARING:
1. PD 198 AND TPM 23130 - STEPHEN NICHOLS AND QUALITY CENTERS
Recommendation: That the Council approve Tentative Parcel
Map 23130, for a three-lot subdivision of property, and
Planned Development District 198, in-lieu of a change
of zone, for a neighborhood shopping center development
on property located on the southwest corner of Tramway
Road and North Palm Canyon.
Planning Director reviewed Memorandum of Director of
Community Development, and stated that there are no General
Plan questions at this point; that the development is
in basic accord with the General Plan, which has a floating
dot located in the vicinity of Tramway Road and North
Palm Canyon designated for a neighborhood commercial center,
although neither a major supermarket, nor a drug store, (116 &
are provided in the project; that the proposed resolution 119)
has been revised to reflect requirements for interior
lighting as discussed at the last study session; that
a number of people spoke in favor, and in opposition,
at the Planning Commission hearing; that the center would
be a factory outlet, direct sales to the public; that
those in opposition thought there was already a high vacancy
factor in the commercial properties, that there would
be a loss of the village atmosphere, that it is a massive
project, that there should be a moratorium on new commercial
development, and they were concerned about the first
impression of the City.
L.ouncii Minutes
6-1-88 Page 2
1. PD 198 & TPM 23130 (Continued)
In answer to question by Council , Planning Director stated
that the requirement to construct a cul-de-sac for San
Marco Way at the end of Cardillo Avenue, is included in
the Development; Committee minutes of May 1, and is a part
of the total conditions for the project.
Mayor declared the hearing opened.
Ann Olsen, 2775 Cardillo Avenue, stated that it is
unrealistic to think the property will remain undeveloped
open space, and if it is to be developed, she favors the
proposed project; that is designed Ito blend with the
mountains; that is a high-quality shopping center,
complimentary to the Loehman Plaza; that she favors this
type of project, rather than a supermarket, with attendant
24-hour noise; and that the cul-de-sac on San Marco is
important for protection of the adjoining neighborhood.
Chris Mills, Architect for the project, 121 S. Palm Canyon
Drive, spoke in favor of the project, and submitted a
rendering to show the view of the project from a southwest
approach. He also stated that cars in the parking lot
will not be visible either from a vehicle perpendicular
to Palm Canyon, or across the street;, that some of
the tenants at the Loehman Plaza are somewhat similar
in nature to those in the proposed center; that the owner
of the Loehman Plaza favors the proposed project, and
believes it will help, and not hurt, their center.
Donna Krause, 2796 Cardillo, stated that she favors a
moratorium on building in the desert, but if that is not
possible, the project will be an attractive one at the
entrance to the City, and encourage people to shop the
entire Palm Canyon strip; and that residents can enjoy
the neighborhood if the cul-de-sac is installed.
Karen Tabaugh, 584 S. Camino Real , Real Estate Board,
stated that she thinks most people are in favor of the
project; that it will bring shoppers back to Palm Springs,
because there is nothing like it anywhere in the Valley;
that the City has taken big strides in the last several
months; that she is opposed to any kind of moratorium,
which is harmful to real estate and (business in general ;
that the spaces in the proposed project; are 3,000 to 5,000
square feet, and there is not a lot of space in town that
could handle that kind of tenant; that the developer has
built this kind of project throughout the country, and
are not beginners.
William Hillagoss, 2392 Palo Verde, owner of 500 Arenas,
stated that the project is a fine idea, but the location
is not; that a wholesale discount place is not in keeping
with the image of Palm Springs, and it would be a drastic
mistake to have a large warehouse at the entrance to the
City.
Carolyn Toenjes stated that she does not favor development,
but the Nichols family is concerned about the environment,
and she supports the project, and hoped they will use
creosote bushes.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 3
1. PD 198 & TPM 23130 (Continued)
Merton Cameron, P.S. Villas No. 2, spoke in support of
the project, and stated that developers should be encouraged
to come to Palm Springs, and should receive fair treatment
when they do so.
Ramon Hernandez, Downtown Business Improvement Association
(DB1A) President, stated that the new project is not
supported, and he felt there would be more dissolution
of the down town business core; that small businesses
cannot compete with something of this size, or magnitude,
which based on projections reported, would mean $342 per
day out of the cash registers down town; that the Main
Street program is beginning to address these concerns,
and now is not the time to proceed with this type of pro-
ject, and new business should be very prudently encouraged
and supported.
Frank Tysen, Casa Cody Hotel , stated that there is a problem
of empty stores, and he considered it insanity to build
more; that there is a problem of image for the City, and
Palm Springs is not a bargain basement community, and
people do not want to be greeted by warehouses at the
entrance to Palm Springs; that the public hearing should
have been held six months ago; that he considered it an
"in-house deal " because of a former Councilmember and
Architectural Advisory Committee member; that in his opinion
the people thought it was a disaster the way the "town
was being run and suggested that the Council not act
on this; that if this type of project must be approved,
it should be somewhere other than at the entry, and the
discount signs should not be seen; and that the matter
should be returned to the Planning Commission for more
studies.
John Cameron, 3506 E9 Gaucho, member of the DBIA, stated
that the project structure and landscape are beautiful ,
but the town was built on small businesses, and people
can go anywhere for department stores, and the quaintness
of the town must be preserved.
Virginia Moore, 175 S. Cahuilla, stated that the project
is a big mistake for small businesses on Palm Canyon Drive,
which are already in trouble, to have to compete with
it, and it will mean more decay; that the downtown area
should be built up first, including establishing business
in the former Robinson store; that big department stores
should go somewhere else; that business people who have
been here for a long time should be supported; and that
the project does not fit into the image of Palm Springs.
E.K. Roberts, 823 Calle Tomas, stated that he does not
want people to think of Palm Springs as a discount center,
and considered it natural that there were no other such
projects in the desert; that he questioned what other
kind of use could be put in the building if the businesses
are not successful , and what that would mean to the
surrounding area; and that he considered it a good design,
and one Palm Desert could have.
Dee Dee Stone, 142 Eastlake, stated that the project was
not innovative, and developers should not try to duplicate
what they have in other areas.
(1Ej Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 4
1. PD 198 & TPM 23130 (Continued)
Gary Stetson, Managing Partner, Quality Center, developer,
stated that the company was certain there would be a
misconception as to its type of operation; that it is a
factory outlet, not a discount store, and is a pleasant
place to shop; that even department stores are discount
stores, and sell merchandise 20-60% off., in order to be
competitive; that the proposed center brings that one
step closer to the consumer; that manufacturers are opening
their own stores to sell merchandise at discounted prices;
that a sizeable amount is spent on advertising, fixtures,
and merchandising; that the department stores are owned
mainly by two large corporations, which are very
competitive, leaving the manufacturer in a void situation,
and in a position of having to open their own stores and
selling merchandise in a first class manner; that i't brings
massive numbers of people to an area, and he felt it will
rejuvenate Palm Springs; that Palm Springs was selected
because of its reputation, and the good feeling of the
area.
Theresa (?) 1.71 S. Cahuilla, stated that the Memorial
Day weekend was similar to Easter Week in terms of the
types of crowds, and efforts should be made to make Palm
Springs charming; that the proposed project should not
be at the entrance to the City, and it will create the
wrong image for a glamorous village.
Bernice Ott, Palm Springs Villas Nos. 2, stated that many
units are in foreclosure, and there is nowhere for the
residents to shop, and often they have to drive miles
for a store; that the proposed project would be a good
supplement to the Tramway, and the surrounding area.
Victoria Doyle, 15982 Cottonwood, stated that the City
cannot turn its back on the kind of income that the project
will generate; that it is not building the bridge into
the City that is needed; that if the project must go in,
there should only be access to the project from Tramway
Road.
William Hillagoss, stated that the merchandise are seconds,
or overstocked items; and reputable companies would not
go this route to override legitimate merchants.
Don Frank, 55CI N. Cahuilla, stated that: perhaps the area
should be considered in the master plan for downtown;
and perhaps a tram or other system could link the Tramway,
this area, and the downtown together.
There were no further appearances, and the hearing was
closed.
Councilmember Apfelbaum stated that the project is well
designed, and a fine image for an important site; that
it integrates with the mountains; that it is similar to
Loehmans, which does not compete with downtown; that a
major goal of the Council has been to help the downtown
area; that people want unique shopping, and this project
offers unique and special shopping; that it will be good
for the people who live here, and good for the tourists;
that criticism have been made that the City's standards
are too high., or too low, and that business is going down
valley; that she did not want to turn away quality business
or quality development; and that the project will eventually
bring in more people to the downtown.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 5 Fi
1. PD 198 & TPM 23130 (Continued)
City Manager stated that one issue relates to how the
project looks, and whether ii fits architecturally in
the area, regardless of what it sells; that he believes
it to be of the type and quality that Palm Springs has
asked for, and that it will not deteriorate its image;
that the second issue relates to the marketability of
this type of use, which the developers have concluded
meets a need, and if it does not go in at the proposed
site, it will go in somewhere in the Valley; that there
have been feelings expressed by a number of people that
other developers left Palm Springs because they were forced
out; that in the 1970s the City had an opportunity to
annex property to the Southeast, but did not do so, in
order to protect the downtown area, and as a result, the
types of businesses which went into that area produced
revenues which fund services in another city; that people
will find this type of center, whether it is in Palm Springs
or elsewhere; that it was said during the election, that
Palm Springs was driving people down valley; and that
if the project is denied on the basis of aesthetics, it
will add fuel to that refrain, which Palm Springs can
no longer afford.
Councilmember Foster stated that the site has been
designated as a neighborhood shopping center for nearly
30 years; that perhaps people would rather see a supermarket
and little shops; that during the campaign, people said
the City was too strict, and ran business out of town;
that there is now a project, and other people are saying
that development should be stopped, and things should
be slowed down; that there are many people who want the
project, and many who do not; and that the Council is
concerned about downtown; that the previous Council spent
four years trying to improve it, including offering money
for the merchants and owners to improve the stores, talking
with the merchants, and doing whatever it could.
In answer to question by Council , Planning Director reported
that the Planning Commission held public hearings, and
study sessions; that the hearing notice and vicinity map
was published, and mailed to property owners within 400
feet of the subject property.
Mayor recognized Mr. Tysen, who stated that there were
people at the Planning Commission hearing, but considered
that approval was a foregone conclusion, since the project
was already designed, and leased.
Mayor stated that this matter was before the Council at
three study sessions, at which members of the public may
be present; that Councilmembers expressed concerns, and
wrestled with the problems of money going down valley,
and the need to assist the northern part of the city,
as well as concerns about the site being the gateway to
the city; that it is important people's voices be heard
early; that the Council does not railroad things through,
but there have been discussions at length, in the interest
of the welfare of the city, and it is tough to weigh all
of the pros and cons, but those have been weighed and
the decision approached from an ethical point of view.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 6
S" 1. PD 198 & TPM 23130 (Continued)
Councilmember Broich stated that he agreed with the Mayor,
and that there are people who live in the northern area,
and they are in favor of the project; that he believes
the project will help to bring people to Palm Springs;
that the developer's advertising program indicates that
$300,000 to $500,000 will be spent in the Orange and Los
Angeles County areas; that prior to his election, he
complained because projects were driven down valley, and
the Council must look to the overall benefit of the
community; and that the decisions are trough, not ramrod
actions.
Councilmember Faster stated that the prior Council spent
a lot of time downtown, and the current Council has devoted
more time to downtown issues than any other item, as a
No. 1 priority; and that the project is sensitive to those
concerns.
Res 16480, approving PDD and Res 16481 approving TPM,
as recommended, were presented, and the City Clerk read
title of Ordinance, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING THE ZONING MAP BY APPROVING A PLANNED
DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT IN-LIEU OF A CHANGE IN ZONE FOR
A NEIGHBORHOOD SHOPPING CENTER LOCATED ON THE SOUTHWEST
CORNER OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE AND TRAMWAY SECTION,
3.
after which, it was moved by Foster, ;seconded by Neel ,
and unanimously carried, that further reading of the
Ordinance be waived; and it was moved by Foster, seconded
by Neel , and carried by the following vote, that Resolutions
16480 and 16481 be adopted, and that the Ordinance be
introduced for first reading:
AYES: Apfelbaum, Broich, Foster and Neel
NO: Bono
ABSENT: None
MAYOR DECLARED A FIVE-M[NUTE RECESS, and upon reconvening, business
resumed.
2. 1988-89 BUDGET
Conduct public hearing to receive input for 1988-89 budget.
City Manager stated that the purpose of the hearing is
to receive public input on the budget; that the Council
will spend the day June 14, in work session, to review (61)
the budget; and it may be necessary to adjourn the June 15
meeting to a date later in June for final action; that
60% of the budget is tax supported operations, and it
continues to have problems; that a three year down cycle
in Room Tax revenues, the loss of General Revenue Sharing,
and other matters resulted in projected major shortfalls;
that the Council looked at revenue adjustments and cutbacks,
and that the utility tax was imposed two years ago, but
because of the Statewide initiative, any continuance of
it, or any form of it, after November, 1988, will require
a majority vote of the people; that as that date approached,
the Council was given information as to cash balances,
potential revenue adjustments, and budget cuts; that there
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 7 06
2. 1988-89 BUDGET (Continued)
were some revenue adjustments, i .e. , in-lieu fee for
enterprise funds, and eight positions and other items
were targeted for cuts over the next seventeen months,
which also permitted a six-month period in which employees
who might have to be laid off would be on notice; that
the T.O.T. has been worse than project in the past few
months, although April was up 25% and may reflect the
beginning of a turnaround, however, it will be a long
time before it can be said that the $2.2 million deficit
that will be on-going one year from now, will be recovered;
that the 1988-89 shortfall is approximately $500,000,
because approximately $1 million will be received from
the utility tax, plus a one time $700,000 that will not
be received in future years; that unless the Council votes
to reduce services, or develop revenue alternatives -
wh'ich are limited without voter approval - or place some
form of a utility tax on the ballot, the continuing deficit
from 1990 forward will be $2.2 million, all other things
being equal .
Mayor declared the hearing opened.
Ramon Hernandez, 420 Patencio, urged all citizens to support
the continuation of the utility tax, and stated that the
important concern is that the City continue to be able
to offer police, fire and park services.
There were no Further appearances, and the hearing was
closed.
No action at this time; budget study session set for June
14, 8 a.m. , City Hall .
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
a) Retaining a Public Relations Firm:
Flarry Mazur, 1448 Sierra Rhonda, stated that if the
Council approves a contract for a public relations
firm, it will bypass the CVB, and result in pulling
funds from its budget for next year; and that the
Council should use the people who are in Palm Springs
to package Palm Springs, and not someone from
out-of-town.
(50)
Eddie Webster, President of the Greater CVB, 54 Phillips
Road, stated that the CVB Board met this date, and
discussed the proposal , and the consensus of the Board
was in favor of it; that he Feels that it would be
a direct benefit for the City to have this kind of
effort; that he spoke with the Mayor, and the simple
fact is that the money has to come from somewhere,
and he would be favorable to using $100,000 of the
CVB budget for it; that the CVB budget, as with other
City department budgets, is a bare bones budget, and
several months ago, he suggested a CVB reduction of
$130,000 to ease the situation being faced by the
City; that he has no doubts as to the professionalism
of the proposed agency, and believes it represents
a quick fix measure to assist in bringing guests to Palm
Springs - which, currently, only the CVB is doing;
that the CVB redesigned its goals over the past one
and one-half years, and moved from an advertising
directed organization, to direct sales and marketing,
Council Minutes
070 6-1-88 Page 8
a) Retaining PR Firm (Continued)
resulting in bookings of 100,000 more rooms than ever
produced; that the CVB wor:,s on two to five years
out to bring in group business; that the CVB will
be in discussion with the PR agency and City staff
concerning the direction that the agency will take;
that he is not interested in duplicating what each
will do; that the CVB is a professionally run
organization, reportable to its directors on a monthly
basis, bringing people downtown to spend money; that
the new effort will not prohibit a continued working
toward a valley-wide consolidated CVB operation, which
he believes is necessary; and if the valley-wide CVB
does not work out, the CVB will work toward bringing
all efforts to Palm Springs.
Sheila Gratten, 1433 Cerritos Road, stated that she
has been in the public relations business for twenty
years, and there are major differences between
Publicity, public relations, and marketing, which (50)
is highly specialized if it is targeted to a specific
thing; that the suggestion that the Council was
considering a public relations firm was a signal to
down valley interests that the CVB did not have the
support of the City, and the CVB merger would unravel ;
that if the Council wants to remove it from the
political arena, it should ask the CVB to build the
appropriate department within its structure, or retain
outside agencies on a professional basis; that a valley
wide problem has been the mixed messages from different
spokespersons for different groups; that one CVB to
sell the valley would eliminate that kind of confusion;
that the City's budget is in Jeopardy, and she
questioned the manner in which the Council approached
this issue, i .e. , that it has only talked with two
firms, and if the targeted audience is unknown, a
firm cannot be hired intelligently.
b) George Goldberg, Box 4156 Palm Springs, suggested
that the Council use the public address system in
its study sessions, and start the Council meeting
at 7 p.m. He also challenged whether the City needed
to contract for a risk manager, whether the person
required an office at City Hall , and if so, why the
City did not retain the person as a regular employee.
He also complimented the Mayor for his donation to
the D.A.R.F.. program.
c) Nicholas Snyder, 76200 Fred Waring, Palm Desert,
representing Wilcox and Gordon, regarding property
at 34th Avenue, stated that a tentative tract map
was approved, however, the adoption of R16346 (General
Plan Amendment) relative to the conceptual location (137)
for the mid-valley parkway, has caused a problem in
allowing the plans to be Filed, fees paid, and permits
taken, because of the question of dedication.
Director of Community Development stated that the
property is on the west side of the wash at Avenue
34, at the point proposed by the CVAG transportation
plan for the mid-valley parkway to cross, and then
extend north to Gene Autry Trail ; that the developer's
project is ready to proceed, but there is no firm
plan as to where the road would cross, and allowing
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 9
c) Continued: 0 7 1
the project to proceed, could result in problems later
in terms of street dedication; that it may be possible
to proceed with one phase of the project, and include
the dedication in the second phase; and he would be
willing to meet with Mr. Snyder to discuss it further.
Meeting set for June 9.
d) Karen Tabaugh, 584 S. Camino Real , suggested that
downtown merchants stay open during the evening hours,
which will develop a small village atmosphere, and
generate sales for them.
e) William Nillagoss asked that the Council look into
the possibility of 'taking part of the funds usually
spent for police overtime during Easter Week, and
budget those for the Park and Recreation Department
to permit evening activities for the Easter Week
visitors, rather than crowd control downtown, and
blocking off portions of the streets; and that such
activities would give the young crowds something to
do, rather than cruising.
f) Dr. Friedman, 449 E. Arenas Road, N401, reminded the
Mayor of his request for a proclamation for Dr. Engle
for his twenty years of work; of his suggestion for
use of the blackboard to denote the names of new
businesses in Palm Springs; and of his concern regarding
palm tree fronds.
g) Dave Nickolay, 2420 Finley Road, on behalf of the
JayCees, stated that the 34th Annual Fire 1,11orks Show
will be named for Mayor Sonny Bono, and will include
a pre-fireworks display show by Smokey Robinson; that
because it is unknown as to how much will be netted
from the show, and because of other community
commitments, the JayCees will only be able to donate
a portion of the funds to the D.A.R.E. program, however,
they would like to spearhead a community-wide
fund-raising drive for the remaining $25,000 needed
for the program; and he challenged the community to
get behind the program.
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
3. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - RENT CONTROL (Ord Intro 5-1.8-88)
City Clerk read title of Ord 1299 re Rent Control
amendments; after which, it was moved by Foster, seconded
by Apfelbaum, and unanimously carried, that further reading
be waived; and it was moved by Foster, seconded by (103)
Apfelbaum, and carried by the following vote, that Ordinance
1299 be adopted:
AYES: Apfelbaum, Foster, Neel & Bono
NO: Broich
ABSENT: None
Council Mintues
6-1-88 Page 10
Y:
4. AIRPORT LAND PURCHASE
Recommendation: That the Council authorize the purchase
of 11.42 acres on Alejo Road, west of the Airport, for
a purchase price of $1,119,160 (90% grant fundable within
the next two years) and amend the budget to appropriate
$226,332 for dawn payment. (51)
Director of Transportation & Energy reviewed his report,
noting that the property is located generally between
the Airport and the National University, north of Alejo
Road, and that the Airport Commission recommends approval .
Res 16482 authorizing the purchase, and Res 16483 amending (61)
the budget, were presented; after which, it was moved
by Apfelbaum, seconded by Neel , and unanimously carried,
that Resolutions 16482 and 16483 be adopted.
5. PD 129 - M.H. ENTERPRISES - TIME EXTENSION
Recommendation: That the Council approve a final 12-month
time extension for PD 129, for a 76-unit condominium
complex on property located at the westerly terminus of
Tahquitz Way, Section 15. (116)
Planning Director highlighted the report of the Director
of Community 'Development, and stated that the project
is a high-end, two-story condominium, with underground
parking, and intensive landscaping; that the property
is the same property about which the Council had some
recent discussion concerning a five to six story apartment
complex; that the developer's intent is to keep the subject
project active, to have a fallback, position, if he is
unable to move ahead with the other project; and that
there was opposition from people who spoke at the Planning
Commission hearing concerning the other project.
Res 16484 approving time extension, as recommended, was
presented; after which, it mfas moved by Neel , seconded
by Apfelbaum, and unanimously carried, that Resolution
16484 be adopted.
6. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - TAXICAB BUSINESS LICENSE TAX
Recommendation: That the Council amend the Municipal
Code to clarify the tax to be paid by a City taxicab
franchisee, and authorize crediting the account of Desert
Cab the excess between the 1987-88 franchise fee and the
business license tax collected.. (103 &
Director of Transportation & Energy stated that during
143)
the granting of the taxicab franchise, in September, 1987,
it was made clear that the City would receive a 4% franchise
fee, in addition to the business license tax; that it
was not intended to retain the language in the Business
License Ordinance which would conflict with that provision
of the franchise; and the proposed amendment would clarify
that language; and would provide a credit to Desert Cab,
however, it will still owe money to the City.
City Clerk read title of the Ordinance, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA,
AMENDING SECTION 3.84.030 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL
CODE TO CLARIFY TAXICAB BUSINESS LICENSE FEES.
MO 4173Acred'iting account of Desert Cab, was presented;
after which, it was moved by Apfelbaum, seconded by Foster,
and unanimously carried, that further reading of the
Ordinance be waived; that the Ordinance be introduced
for first reading; and that MO 4173 be adopted.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 11 7
7. ZTA 5.0400 - ZONING ORDINANCE AMENDMENTS (Ord Intro 5-18-88) ;
a) City Clerk read title of Ord 1300, concerning ZTA
regarding restaurants and accessory commercial uses
in small hotels, parking spa-e design, and correcting
four omissions; after which, it was moved by Broich, (103)
seconded by Foster, and unanimously carried, that
further reading be waived, and that Ordinance 1300
be adopted.
ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS:
8A. Award of bid of one 1250 G.P.M. Custom Rescue Squad for Fire
Department - Withdrawn from Agenda.
8B. COMPUTER UPGRADE - FACILITIES MAINTENANCE
Recommendation: That the Council award purchase of computer
system upgrade 'for Facilities Maintenance Division of
the General Operations Department, from J.B. Systems,
'for $9,500.
Purchasing Manager reviewed report of Director of Finance, (117)
and noted that the system can be upgraded without the
appropriation of additional funds.
Counciimember Broich stated that he believed it would
be possible to get by without it, and the purchase should
not be approved.
Facilities and Street Operations Manager stated that the
existing hardware will support a system budgeted for Streets
Maintenance; and the proposed hardware would be purchased
in-lieu of that, which will allow keeping up with the
upgraded Facilities Maintenance software.
NO 4174 approving the purchase as recommended, was
presented; after which, it was moved by Apfelbaum, seconded
by Foster, and carried by the following vote, that NO
4174 be adopted:
AYES: Apfelbaum, Foster, Neel & Bono
NO: Broich
ABSENT: None
8C. PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM
Recommendation: That the Council approve a contract with
Mahoney/Wasserman « Associates, and appropriate $8,300
for the first month's promotional events.
Assistant to the City Manager reviewed her report in detail , (50)
a copy of which is on File with the City Clerk, in
particular, the emphasis for identifying the Pali Springs
product, and a central theme, or message, from which
everything will spin-off; that there needs to be a public
relations plan that is done for the entire community; (61)
that the plan would feature six elements, as detailed
in the agreement, including product identification, how
to get where the City wants to go, plan of goals, strategies
and actions, a timetable, and a process of continuing
evaluation; that there would be agreement on timelines
07 4 Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 12
8C. PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM (Continued)
and approach, and cooperation with the CVB; that there
would be assistance in marketing and promotion of special
events (noting that the Council has already talked about
events such as the Vintage Car Race, a film festival ,
a fashion festival , a marathon, and collegiate olympics)
which will require high-powered help; that Mahoney has
a very high caliber of clients, and potential for finding
corporate sponsors, which ultimately could, lead to building
PR costs into the event cost, thereby eliminating the
need for tapping the CVB or other budgeted funds. She
stated that the Council interviewed two firms, i .e. , Mahoney
& Associates and Rogers & Cowan, and that the Mahoney
firm appears to be able to give the best time and the
actual people who would be in Palm Springs; that the
contract has a cap of $100,000, which includes a cap of
$25,000 on expenses and $75,000 on personal services,
unless otherwise modified by the Council ; and includes
an immediate cancellation by the City, and a 30-day notice
of cancellation by the firm.
Councilmember Apfelbaum stated that the first three items
of the contract: have already been done., that people are
needed to design a variety of events, and producers found,
to be promoted and be adjuncts to what the CVB is doing,
as we'll as an evaluation of events; that she did not see
how the firm will interface with others, nor is it clear
what the firm will do, or how success will be measured.
Assistant to the City Manager stated that the Public
Relations Plan is essential , and the agreement identifies
the steps needed to develop the central message; that
there currently is no central message, or planned or
coordinated effort; that there are duplications and gaps
which need to be addressed; and a central theme developed,
which everyone can take advantage of and use.
Mayor stated that he spoke with Eddie Webster, and it
is hard to button down every single function because there
will be so many jobs between the CVB and the City and
others, and everyone will have to work together; that
his understanding is there will not be any impingement
on the CVB, rror is the City or the CVB interested in
duplicating what is being done; that the CVB, the Chamber
of Commerce, the City and others will have to be involved,
and there will have to be agreement on the designation
of who does what job; and that the CVB volunteered to
adjust its budget, with the hope that if backers are found,
those funds can be repaid and seed money established for
more events.
City Manager stated that the first three items of the
agreement will not involve original research, but to be
open to information already at hand; that: evaluation should
be done by the Council , not as a contractual matter; that
event planning is critical , and he believes it is covered
in the agreement; and that he believed the issue of
sponsorship, and other aspects of performance, are as
defined as much as possible.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 13
8C. PUBLIC RELATIONS FIRM (Continued)
In answer to question by Council , Mr. Mahoney stated that
the number of sponsors the firm is able to get could be
one method of evaluation; that the firm represents a large
number of corporations and has the ability to bring clients
and various programs together, however, there is no
guarantee that all events will receive a corporate sponsor,
but they have been very successful in making that happen.
Councilmember Foster stated that the firm will be working
with the CVB, and the agreement covers what is intended
to be done.
Councilmember Broich stated that he believes the agreement
is clear; that one measurement of success will be if there
are more tourist and tax dollars, which can be tracked;
that the agreement provides for a cancellation; and that
he favored proceeding.
Councilmember Apfelbaum stated that the city needs to
have a wonderful environment, as well as those who go
out and bring others here, i .e. , the CVB, and the removal
of CVB funds will be directed at festivals.
MO 4175 approving the agreement with Mahoney (Agr #2567),
and Resolution 16485 amending the budget to appropriate
the funds, both as recommended, were presented; after
which, it was moved by Neel , seconded by Foster, and
unanimously carried, that MO 4175 and R16485 be adopted.
8D. Finance Department computer software - withdrawn from agenda
CONSENT AGENDA:
9. MO 4176 authorizing payment of $9,745.12 to Dateland Sanitation
Company, for street widening at the northwest corner of Avenida (136)
Caballeros and Amado Road, to improve 'traffic flo,,., at the
Convention Center.
10. MO 4177 accepting a proposal from Data Ten, Inc. , to provide
the InvestorNet, an investment related computer service, to (117)
the Finance Department, for $5,442 per year - A2568.
11. MO 4178 authorizing the purchase of additional Airport Terminal (51)
furniture from Southwest Business Interiors, for $9,637.52.
12. MO 4179 awarding bid for fence repairs at Demuth Park to Alcorn (109)
Fence Company, for $8,448.00.
13. Res 16486 and 16487 approving Payroll Warrants and Claims (86)
& Demands.
14. Res 16488 consenting to the assumption of lease A1723 by Mrs.
Carole Shultz, and consenting to the cancellation of the (51)
sublease agreement between Kuranz, Hallen and Killoren and
Schneck Aviation.
15. MO 4180 approving an agreement not to exceed $20,000 with
Sally McManus for the 1988-89 operation of the Historical (117)
Society museum and the Cornelia White "Little [louse" A2569.
16. Res 16489 authorizing the City Clerk to accept quitclaim from
the County to the City, concerning the Palm Springs Group (85)
Home property on Eastgate Drive.
It was moved by Apfelbaum, seconded by Broich, and
unanimously carried, that Resolutions 16486 through 16489,
and Minute Orders 4176 through 4180 be adopted.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 14
ADDED STARTERS
17. PA6 - URGENCY ORDINANCE (INTERIM ZONING)
Consideration of an urgency ordinance for a portion of
North Palm Canyon Drive and Indian Avenue, north from
Granvia Valmonte to Tachevah and Via Lola. (Eligibility
for consideration determined upon unanimous approval upon
motion by Broich, seconded by Foster.) (103)
City Attorney stated that concern was raised regarding
the Central Business District (CBD) and the possibility
of extending it to the north, to accomplish what has been
referred to as a "gallery district," and to protect that
while studies are underway, an interim zoning ordinance
which would limit uses in the area for 45 days. He stated
that the ordinance would require a 4/5 vote, and could
be extended for subsequent 45 day periods.
City Clerk read title of Ordinance 1301, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPF:INGS, CALIFORNIA,
TO PROHIBIT ANY USE NOT PERMITTED BY SECTION 9209.01A
OF THE PALM SPRINGS ZONING ORDINANCE FOR A PORTION
OF NORTH PALM CANYON DRIVE AND INDIAN AVENUE EXTENDING
NORTH FROM GRANVIA VALMONTE TO TACHEVAH DRIVE AND VIA
LOLA, AND DECLARING THE URGENCY THEREOF.
It was moved by Broich, seconded by Foster, and unanimously
carried, that further reading be waived, and the Ordinance
1301 be adopted.
18. BUDGET AMENDMENT - FIESTA MEXICANA
Consideration of budget amendment to appropriate $1,000
for the Fiesta Mexicana, June 5, 1988. Eligibility for
consideration determined by a 4-1-0 vote (Apfelbaum voting
No) upon motion by Broich, seconded by Foster.
City Manager stated that this matter was discussed at (61)
the study session, and it appeared the Council was
interested in appropriating funds to aid in the cost for
purchase or rental of items required for the symphony;
that if the Council wished to appropriate the funds, how
those funds are spent should be the choice of the group
- for example, one cost to the group is the rental of
the showmobile; that the Council does not. generally allocate
funds to charitable events in the community, and he
recommended against it from the standpoint of establishing
a spending precedence; that if the Council wished to do
so, it should established guidelines as to how funds would
be spent, and the type of events that would be the most
appropriate, for example, those which assist in bringing
people downtown; that he did not have a fix on how much
money would be needed to match the scale of what he
considered to be the number and size of requests that
will come forward.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 15 w
18. BUDGET AMENDMENT (Continued)
07 7
City Attorney stated that Councilmember Foster abstained
during discussion at the study session, however, there
is no conflict of interest for him to participate in the
decision.
Councilmember Broich stated that the City needs to look
at these kinds of events, and this will further that kind
of review.
Councilmember Foster stated that the City is changing
direction, and although 'these kinds of events were not
financially supported in the past, the change in direction (61)
has become evident, particularly in the past slx weeks;
that this type of event should be encouraged; that if
the City were to sponsor it, the showmobile and chairs
would be provided, and he did not see this any differently;
that it is a nonprofit group, looking for the betterment
of the downtown merchants and the City; that the Council
will need to address the future policy questions; and
that if these kinds of events are to be encouraged, then
the dollars will have to be provided, and the events helped,
not hindered.
Councilmember Apfelbaum stated that the issue is not the
event, but the question of fairness, and the appearances
of special interests; that the Council approved a $100,000
contract earlier to help set up festivals; that policy
questions on that are not in place, and changes are already
being made; that the question of fairness also extends
to competing with private enterprise, and that City
equipment should not be given away when there already
exists a budget deficit; and that she did not think it
proper for the Council to do so.
Mayor stated that the absence of assistance leaves the
group in a very hard place.
Resolution 16490 amending the budget to appropriate $1,000
for the Fiesta Mexicana expenses, was presented; after
which, it was moved by Broich, seconded by Foster, and
carried by the following vote, that Resolution 16490 be
adopted:
AYES: Broich, Foster, Neel & Bono
NO: Apfelbaum
ABSENT: None
REPORTS OR REQUESTS:
CITY COUNCIL reports or requests
a) Councilmember Broich suggested that parking enforcement
should be suspended downtown during the summer months; (105)
and requested that the matter be added to the study
session agenda items,
Council Minutes
079 9 6-1-88 Page 16
PUBLIC reports or requests
a) Mel Haber Apartment Complex:
William Hillagoss stated that, regarding the Cadillac
Fairview project, there was a petition with the Planning
Commission in 1981 and 1982 that 90% of the people
within the area were opposed to the project, yet it
was approved; and that those concerns were ignored
then and now by having the Council grant the project
extension.
(116)
Mayor noted that because the Council does not go along
with certain concerns expressed, that it does not
mean that those concerns were not heard, rather that
the Council arrived at the conclusion that they did
not fit into the total welfare of the community.
City Attorney stated that the project which was extended
was approved in 1982, and was able to proceed since
that time; that a separate project on the property
is being considered, which would take the place of
that project, and one which would require an
environmental impact report as a part of the approval
process.
Mr. Hillagoss stated that he did not think the City
should contribute $30,000 -in public funds for an EIR
for a project, rather that it should be funded 100%
by the developer.
Rose Mihatai, 468 W. 7ahquitz Way, stated that she
has been involved in this project for two months;
that people who come to the study sessions cannot
speak to the Council ; that she has tried to get minutes
of meetings; that she has petitions from people who
are opposed; and she questioned whether Councilmembers
had read "the file" on this project (she received
a negative response).
Councilmember Foster stated that he was well aware
of the conditions which were imposed on the original
project; that the conditions are met, when the project
proceeds, e.g. , if it proceeds, the soils tests would
be done; that the Council approved) an extension of
time for the project; and the file merely sets out
the conditions to proceed.
City Manager stated that the discussion at the study
session related to the new project, which will have
to go through the normal processes; and that the
question of whether the Redevelopment Agency will
make money available for an EIR will be the subject
of a future agenda item. He stated that the Council
acted to grant the time extension on the earlier
project, and there is no action or discussion before
the Council regarding the new project to occur at
this time.
Sid Phillips, 234 Lei Drive, stated that he thought
there are enough voters to keep high rise out of Palm
Springs, and questioned why that area should be
disfigured by a five-story "bastille," and that the
project is a crime.
Councilmember Foster stated that the new project has
not come to the Council , and is only now going through
the Planning Commission.
Council Minutes
6-1-88 Page 17 079
a) Mel Haber Apartment Complex (Continued)
Frank Tysen stated that the five story project was
before the Planning Commission ; that the Commission
approved two stories; and thA newspaper reported that
the Council approved the five-story idea.
Councilmember Broich stated that he expressed his
opinion at the study session that he preferred a (116)
high-end apartment project to more condominiums.
Rose Rose stated her opinion that it was a disgrace
to have a five-story building in that area, and she
would put up a fight to keep it out; that the City
should not pay for developer costs; and that it was
up to the Councilto',stop such nonsense and greed, and
to shelve the project.
Jeremy Crocker stated that he favored the project,
and believed there would be an adjustment of values
of adjacent properties.
b) Gayle Alfrenso (sp?) , thanked the Council for its
financial support of the Fiesta Mexicana, and stated
that he rejected the implication of special favors; (61)
that Mrs. Foster has been a champion of good causes;
and that the City has not been fair with the Hispanics.
c) Sid Phillips stated 'chat there are a number of ways
in which to raise money; that he is aware of a pilot
film on prizefighting, to be shot in Palm Springs,
and if it is successful , it will mean more filming
and money for Palm Springs.
STAFF reports or requests
a) City Manager reported on status of proposed dinner
with members of the Board of Supervisors; and consensus
was that the dinner be postponed until all interested
parties are able to be present.
b) City Manager reported that the Council previously
indicated some concern regarding tandem parking approved
for a restaurant project on Caballeros across from
the Convention Center, and that the time for appeal
would lapse on June 2, and if any member ivished to
appeal the matter, they should contact the City Clerk.
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business at 11 : 15 p.m. , Mayor
declared the meeting adjourned.
'JUDITH SUMTCH
City Clerk
y;
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