HomeMy WebLinkAbout1992 - MINUTES - 6/3/1992 , J,
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JUNE 3, 1992
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of s`ulm Springs,
California, was called to order by Mayor Maryanov, in the Council
Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday, June 3, 1992,
at 7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Hodges, Lyons, Rtiller, and
Mayor Maryanov
Absent: Councilmember Schlendorf (M,Otce: Mrs.
Schlendorf entered during the budlgst hearing,
Item 1. )
The meeting was opened with theej'` lag Salute and an ihvocation by
Laveta Dillman, Chapel on the Way.
C ZD',UKTY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: Mayor declared the meei 'se:g adjourned
for the purpose of convening as the Community RedevelopmLot Agency;
after which, members reconvened as the City Council .
HOUSIGIG AUTHORITY, FINANCE AUTHORITV, INDUSTRIAL nEVEl_QlPNFOY
AUTHORITY - No business
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
It was moved by Lyons, seconded by Reller, and unanimously
carried, that the Minutes of May 6, 1992, be approved
PUBLIC FEARIINGS:
1. 1992-93 BUDGET
Recommendation: That the Council conduct hearing on
adoption of the 1992-93 budget.; final budget to be presented
for adoption June 17, 1992.
City Manager reported that a Mask force worked to develop
the budget, which has been under detailed review by the
City Council at the past three study sessions, during
which there were indications of changes that. it might (061-
make, including minimum cuts in police and fire departments, 013)
revenue enhancements, and arriving at a balanced budget;
and that the remainder of the budget will be reviewed
at the June 9 study session.
Mayor declared the hearing opened.
Dee Dee Stone, Palm Springs, suggested cutting high-salaried
employees, and selling city property.
Mayor noted that selling property owned by the Redevelopment
Agency will not add dollars to the General Fund; that
he decline 20% of the Mayor' s salary, and the City Manager
took a voluntary $10,000 reduction in pay; that other
salaries are being addressed within contractual and
personnel obligations, with good help from City staff.
Jim Shaw, Mira Loma Hotel , spoke in support of continued
funding for the Visitor Center and communii:y promotion
to attract and promote tourism. He stated that Don Schmitt,
General Manager, Wyndham Hotel , asked him to convey his
support of tourism/promotion funding also.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 Page 2
1.' 1992-93 BUDGET (Continued)
Jeremy Crocker, 330 W. Arenas, commented from a prepared
statement, a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk,
that, in his opinion, budget cuts fall severely on police
and fire„ and the needed additional funds could come from
refraining from adventures in real estate development
subsidy; complimented the City Treasurer for successful
investment of funds directly controlled by the City;
suggested that the City offer resources which have value
to the community, e.g. , the database for purchasing,
on a consultation fee basis; and urged the community to
review the budget between now and June 17, offering his
assistance and providing the City Clerk with his telephone
number.
Dick Sroda, 2114 Calle Felicia, stated that the voters
defeated a utility tax four years ago, and it should not
be considered again, and he felt the voters would reject
the idea; that, in his opinion, the positions recommended
for cut were selected to result in a public outcry, and
the middle and upper management positions should be cut;
that City Hall needs to do more with less; that the budget
will not be balanced by cutting people who are essential
to the public; and that streets are in bad shape, and should
not be ignored.
Rick Cadigan, Palm Springs, stated that he has been in
the fire service for 6 years, most recently in Palm Springs,
commented on 3-men fire engine companies, and urged 'that
the Council not cut fire services which could jeopardize
residents and visitors; and that the Council impose a
utility user tax to generate needed revenue.
Al Bayless, Amado Road, Palm Springs, stated that he has
been a resident for 20 years, that he is President of
the Fire Association and they have tried to educate the
citizens and Council as to the Fire Department staffing
needs, most recently through the efforts for the Fire
Benefit Assessment, which failed eventhough a 2-man engine
company is not safe; that the Fire Department needs more,
not less funds, and he opposed any cuts in the Fire
Department.
Joe Nacinovich, Palm Springs police sergeant, urged that
the Council continue to ask questions about the positions
in the budget report, which should be reviewed as to
productivity; that patrol positions were proposed to be
removed; that he felt it was difficult to cut safety
positions; that a POST study was done several years ago
which showed that police officers "on the street" were
short by nine positions, but there were enough detectives;
that there should be another study made at this time;
that he recommended underfilling the Lieutenant and Sergeant
position; that if the Lieutenant traded for civilian
lieutenant is cut, there is a liaison sergeant attendant
thereto which should also be eliminated; and that the
service extended to the community should remain in tact.
HERE COUNCILMEMBER SCHLENDORF ENTERED AND JOINED THE
MEETING.
Cynet Clark, Tiffany Circle, urged that the Council not
cut the DARE program, and stated that Kids For Kids formed
a Drug Abuse Commission in support of DARE programs, and
intends to launch a fundraising effort to support such
programs throughout the Coachella Valley, including Palm
Springs; that it would only take $34.17 per child per
year valley-wide to cover the programs. In answer to
question by Council , she stated that their efforts will
start in about 3 weeks, and thought it would take 6 months
to raise the funds, and they intend to seek grants.
Council Minutes
nj
6-3-92 Page 3
1. 1992-93 BUDGET (Continued)
Mayor stated that community service c,Tubs will also be
asked to help support the program through fundraisers.
Jeanine Pacquette, past DARE officer in Palm Springs also
spoke in support of the program.
Steve Adams., Palm Springs Commercial Traffic Enforcement
Police OfficeP,, read from a prepared statement, a copy
of which is on file with the City Clerk, relative to the
duties he performs and the impact eliminating the position
would have on the City's revenue and protection.
Bob Weithorn, .Orchid Tree, 261 S. Belardo, spoke in support
of toursim and; ,•promotional funding, and read extracts
of the proposed 'drdinance and argument in favor of Measure
M on the November, 1991 ballot, related to a 1% increase
in TOT; and submitted results of a survey by the P.S.
Hotel Association of its members concerning an increase
in TOT to expand the PSDRCVB, opposing such action unless
certain conditions exist, favoring retaining the Visitor
Information Center, and opposed reducing city tourism
division funding in order to support increased PSDRCVB
request.
Mayor stated that the proposed budget included staff cuts
at both the upper and lower levels; that there needs to
be an understanding of the way city government differs
from private enterprise, e.g. , a position - not necessarily
an individual - may be eliminated, resulting in a bumping
process; that he hoped to restore the community's faith
in the Council to safeguard its money and to spend it
wisely; that there are procedural and legal constraints
that need to be understood and followed; that the task
force did not arbitrarily suggest cuts, rather each
department was asked to provide 5-10-15% reductions and
within those limits to recommd where those would best
be made; that they did not simply suggest eliminating
a position just to excite the community; that the Council
is on record of keeping its word; that he and other members
of the Council have stated that they are not willing to
place the Prop. R debt on the tax roll ; that there has
not been any discussion to impose a utility tax at this
time, but there has been a reference to putting it before
the voters, so next year when it comes time to balance
the budget, there will be the revenue needed to preclude
eliminating programs, and to afford the community the
opportunity to express its choice; that the Council welcomes
input in terms of revenues and expenditures; that he agrees
on the need to promote the City in order to bring in
revenue, but not just spend dollars for the sake of
promotion, and he challenged the hospitality industry
to use more of its own funds based on the same arguments
it makes as to why the City should do the funding. He
stated that the PSDRCVB Board agreed to seek an increase
in the TOT from larger convention hotels only (noting
later that each City will have to consider the issue);
that the Council knew it was facing a difficult choice
when members were seeking election, and will do the best
job in providing the best service possible within the
funding limitations.
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Hodges, and
unanimously carried, that action be continued to June
17, 1992.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 Page 4
2e 1-fH 27388 - CVHC
On April 15, Council continued public hearing on Tentative
Tract Map 27388 for C.V. Housing Coalition to divide a
7.74 acre parcel on Sunrise Way north of San Rafael , to
this date. Recommendation; That the Council further rii3
continue public hearing for an additional 30 days:, to
permit staff to hold a neighborhood meeting to address wJ9y
concerns of residents.
City Manager noted that the Council had requested that
a plan for the area also be reviewed, and the time frame
will address that.
Mayor declared the hearing opened; there were no
appearances.
It was moved by Reller„ seconded by Lyons, and unanimously
carried, that the hearing be continued to the first meeting
in July.
3. TKI 27312 - JUAREZ
Recommendation: That the Council approve Parcel Map 27312
for reversion to acreage purposes for a 98 unit-apartment
complex on property located at 400 E. Stevens Road, R-2
and R-3, Section 1.1; hearing continued from May 20, :1992,
to complete notification process. City Manager reported (119-
that the notification process was completed, and no further 119-
staff report was given. 001)
Mayor declared the hearing opened; it he re were no
appearances, and the hearing was closed.
Resolution 17867 as recommended, was presented; after
which, it was moved by Reller, seconded by Hodges, and
unanimously carried, that R17867 be adopted.
ZTA 5.0400 - MISCELLANEOUS AEIENDMENTS
Recommendation: That the Council approve a number of
amendments, additions or deletions to the Zoning Ordinance,
including specialty market places; child care centers;
single-family residence parking; street-level offices
in the CBD; additional retail/service uses in commercial/
industrial zones; downtown parking; shopping center set-
backs; outdoor uses in commercial zones; parking for high-
rise buildings; handicapped parking spaces; monument,
customer convenience & neon signs; architectural review (103-
process; and other miscellaneous amendments. 039)
City Manager reported that at the study session, the Council
asked that this matter be delayed in order to permit members
more time in which to review the details of the changes.
Mayor declared the hearing opened; there were no
appearances.
It was moved by Reller, seconded by Schlendorf, and
unanimously carried, that the hearing be continue to July
1, 1992.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 Page 5
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
a) Comments re Item 11:
Bob Hargrave, attorney with Best, Best & Krieger,
representing the City of Desert Hot Springs, stated
that it feels strongly that I-10 forms the boundary
between the two cities, and north of I-10 should be
in Desert Hot Springs; that they have tried to meet
with the City of ,Palm Springs for two years to discuss (054-
this issue; that at a dinner meeting, it was said 006)
by Palm Springs that it had no intent of taking in
that area, but the contrary actions have been taken;
that two months ago a meeting was worked out, and
after it was .arranged, Palm Springs did not attend;
that following 'thp City's election, the City Managers
of the two cities met at which it was reported that
no action would be taken by Palm Springs until there
could be discussion to see if the boundary question
could be resolved; and that he requested no action
be taken on Item 11 until both Councils have an
opportunity to work out a cooperative decision.
b) Other Public Comments, not related to an agenda matter:
Gary Bosworth, Desert Access, Box 336, Palm Springs,
suggested that handicap ramps be completed in
conjunction with street work following the DWA project
on Palm Canyon. Director of Public Works noted that
$100,000 is also included in next year' s budget for
handicap ramps, and he will check on the DWA
possibility.
George Goldberg, Box 4156, commented on his opinion
of former mayors, and that he favors a 7-person council
district system of government; and on how much money
is paid to department heads.
Alex Myerhoff, 342 Via Sol , commented regarding Eagle
Mountain Landfill , and that he was prohibited from
visiting the site. Mayor requested confirmation as
to the company' s exclusion of visitors, which is
inconsistent with earlier invitations.
Dee Dee Stone, Palm Springs, commented on PEG access,
and her opinion that a commission is needed to oversee
its operation, and that the City Librarian is too
busy to devote the time needed to it, and it should
not rest with one individual . Mayor noted that there
are costs associated with staffing a commission.
Frank E. Brown, 670 Calle Palo Fierro, offerd the
third phase of his proposal for Library for the
Alternative - to operate Welwood Murray, stating that
the Library Center expands as library staff develops;
that he proposes a non-conventional library, providing
a place for volunteers to gather, and an opportunity
for a library to grow into the space of the building.
Mayor suggested that Mr. Brown limit his comments
to new topics.
Fred Ebeling also commented on PEG and supporting
action that would delegate authority for its operation
to the people in the community.
Don Frank, Palm Springs, supported comments by Mr.
Brown, stating his opinion that the Library for the
Alternative is a look to the future, and it might
include such things as the history film that was shown
at the former Marie Callenders.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 page 6
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
5. CAL STATE UNIVERSITY - COACHELLA VALLEY CAMPUS
Recommendation: That the Council appoinit a citizen' s
task force to begin researching the feasibility of locating
a Cal State San Bernardino campus in Palm Springs and
adopt a resolution supporting the development of a campus (065-
in Palm Springs 001)
City Manager reported that his matter was to be pulled
from the agenda, consistent with discussion at the last
study session.
6. P.D. 212 - TTM 25243 - JOSEPH & ROBINSON
Recommendation: That the Council approve a. 12-month time
extension for TTM 25243, for residential lots; and
reapproval of Final Development Plans for five single-family
residences on the NE corner of E1 Alameda and Sunrise (116-
Way. City Manager noted memorandum of Director of Planning 080)
& Zoning.
Resolution 17868 approving time extension, and 1,7869
approving final map, as recommended, were presented; after
which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Reller, and
unanimously carried, that R17868 be adopted.
7'. ANNUAL GRASS SEED
Recommendation: That the Council approve purchase of
annual and perennial rye grass seed from Cameron Chemical
Co. , for a total of $83,059.09, based on a per pound unit
price. Purchasing Manager reviewed his report.
Mayor stated that. he would abstain due to a client
relationship; and Mayor pro tem chaired the item.
Councilmember Lyons stated that he has received numerous
telephone calls expressing concern about the City's budget
situation and spending these funds when the Council is
considering cuts in crucial services; that most of it (084-•
is for the Golf Course, without which revenues to the 008'
City would be reduced; that all aspects of tourism and
leisure time are tied together; and that he was pleased
the lowest bidder is from Palm Springs.
Councilmember Reller noted that the vendor has also agreed
to sell seed to the School District for the same price.
Minute Order 5020 as recommended, was presented; after
which, it was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Lyons,
and unanimously carried, Maryanov abstaining, that MO
5020 be adopted.
Council Minutes d
6-3-92 Page 7
8. CANYON STROLL
Recommendation: That the Council approve the expenditure
of $1,800 for Canyon Stroll entertainment June 5, 12 and
19.
Director of Public Relations/Special Events stated that
the proposal would provide funds for entertainment for
the three weekends.
Councilmember Lyons stated that he spent time at the last
event and observed that many of the merchants were not
open; that one merchant who advocated the event had closed
for the summer; that until the block is beautified,
entertainment is frivolous.
Councilmember Schlendorf stated that there has been a
lot of work on this project, and many options have been
developed; that she felt it should be put on hold for
the time being, and the merchants given an opportunity
to get together and, hopefully, they will put a plan
together among themselves, in which they will have an
investment, and perhaps if help is needed from the City
in the Fall , it can be looked at then; and that she felt
the downtown projects must belong to the merchants, and
they must have vested interests in them.
Councilmember Reller stated that she only saw the
entertainers at the event, but no one else, and agreed
with the previous comments.
Mayor stated that he supported the previous comments also,
and appreciated the work that has gone into the event;
that. there must be more time spent reviewing what should
happen, and exploring alternative sources of funds; and
that perhaps the DBID can be of help.
No action taken.
9. ANNUAL PALM TREE TRIMMING
Recommendation: That the Council award bid for annual
palm tree trimming and seed pod removal .
Purchasing Manager reviewed his report, noting that one
vendor, who would have been the low bidder, was disqualified
for submitting the bid seven minutes late; that the project
requires a provider to assemble a sizable work crew for
a short period, and then disban it; that all of the vendors (136-
work throughout Southern California; that there were three 032)
Palm Springs vendors, however, one moved, one did not
want to bid, and one did not want to meet insurance
requirements; that the Council may waive the late filing,
since the project is not subject to State or Federal special
provisions; that the late vendor was notified at the same
time as all other vendors; and that he had no other reason
for being late, other than car problems. In answer to
question by Council , he stated that to his knowledge,
the City has never accepted a late bid.
Councilmember Hodges stated that she did not think the
Council should set such a precedent; that bidding occurs
everyday during City business hours; and that a change
in the rules will only lead to problems in the future.
Council Minutes
6•-3-92 Page 8
9. PALM TREE TRIMMING (Continued)
Councilmember Reller stated that she felt, in today's
economy, if the vendor wanted the job, the bid would have
been submitted timely.
In answer to question by Council , Purchasing Manager
explained how the computerized vendor list was established.
Mayor suggested that business licensees be recontacted
to further update the database.
Minute Order 5021 awarding bid to Tip Top Tree Service
for $41,299.70, was presented; after which;, it was moved
by Hodges, seconded by Reller, and unanimously carried,
that MO 5021 be adopted.
10. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITNS: None
11. WIND INDUSTRIES - MOU
Recommendation: That the Council reaffirm MOU (A2875)
between the City and NE Property Owners Association for
the purpose of clarifying wind energy development policies
regarding future annexations.
City Manager reported that the dinner referred to by Mr.
Hargrave during Public Comments, was a social event, and
there was no formal action to not annex north of I-10;
that there is a meeting scheduled with Desert Hot Springs
City Manager, himself, and two members of each City Council ;
and that the proposed action relates to the wind industry
and the City's relationship with it.
Mayor stated that the MOU does not annex anything; that
LAFCO is the body which approves annexations,.
City Manager stated that LAFCO does not approve if there
is disagreement on boundaries.
Director of Planning & Zoning reviewed the points of the
MOU, which was originally approved July 31, '1990.
Mayor stated that he recalled the concerns of the Council (054--
when the wind industry first started, and the disruption 006:1
to the desert, and that they were financially motivated
by tax credits; that, today, they are economy driven,
provide a viable energy alternative, and are subject to
standards for development; that he was convinced there
was a miscommunication between prior Councilmembers and
Desert Hot Springs, and words are not always easy to
interpret.
Councilmember Hodges stated that concerning the cancelled
meeting referred to by Mr. Hargrave, former Councilmembers
Broich and Murawski were the appointed Council liaisons
with Desert Hot Springs and the two other tril-city committee
members; that when the meeting was scheduled, Mr. Murawski
was still in office, but subsequently resigned before
the meeting was held; that Mr. Broich planned to attend,
and was unable to do so at the last minute; and that; she
was asked to attend instead, however, since she was not
an appointed member, that was not possible, and the meeting
had to be cancelled. She stated that she and Councilmember
Lyons are now the designated committee members, and would
be happy to meet with Desert Hot Springs at any time.
Mr. Hargrave stated that there is no urgency to the action,
and again requested) it be delayed for the reasons previously
stated.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 Page 9
11. WIND INDUSTRIES - MOU (Continued)
Councilmember Schlendorf noted that the action simply
reaffirms and clarifies what has already transpired, and
did not think if would be offensive to anyone.
Resolution 17870, as recommended, was presented; after
which, it was moved by Lyons, seconded by Reller, and
unanimously carried, that R17870 be adopted.
CONSENT AGENDA:
12. Res 17871 approving acquisition of ,3 lots located south of
Mesquite Avenue, east of El C%IQ, and north of the Tahquitz
Wash (2 lots on Palm Avenue, 1 'lot on Orange Avenue) for a (109-
total of $14,500, plus closing costs, from Emma & Vigen 009)
Khatchaturian, for public purposes, recreational facilities
and open space.
13. MO withdrawn approving subrecipient agreement with Riverside (085-
County Office of Education, for Desert Highland ,job training 001)
program, under CDBG 91-92 funding program.
14. Res 17872 approving final development plans for P.D. 215 to
allow a 77-unit single-family residential project on 20-acre (116-
parcel on the SW corner of Sunrise Way and Racquet Club Road, 083)
Racquet Club Properties, R-1-C.
15. MO 5022 approving negotiated purchase of a portable slurry (136-
tank from Klein Products for $33,534. 035)
16. Res 17873 and 17874 approving Payroll Warrants and Claims (086-•
& Demands. 010)
17. Motion concurring in CRA Res 861 - 862. (124)
18. Res 17875 declaring City-awned property at 1820 E. Racquet
Club as surplus, and directing its sale (parcel used to (117)
CRA/School District Housing Construction program) .
It was moved by Reller, seconded by Schlendorf, and
unanimously carried, that Resolutions 17871 through 17875,
MO 5022 and motion in Item 17 be adopted.
ADDED STARTERS: None
REPORTS & REQUESTS:
19. DEPARTMENTAL REPORTS - Received & Ordered Filed
a) Treasurer's Monthly - March, 1992
20. CITY COUNCIL reports or requests
a) Councilmember Schlendorf described a situation of
a handicapped person who had difficulty with the
conversion box provided by Warner Cable for television (089-
sets which are not multi-channel capable, and asked 003)
if something could be done to assist in this regard.
Staff to check with Warner.
Council Minutes
6-3-92 Page 10
b) Councilmember Reller announced that the Gang Task
Force will broadcast on Channel 17 "Magic 48 Minutes"
on June 8 at b p.m. , after which, members will answer
telephone inquiries on the subject.
21. STAFF reports or requests - None
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor declared the meeting
adjourned.
!JUDITH SUMICH
City Clerk