HomeMy WebLinkAbout1993 - MINUTES - 7/28/1993 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
JULY 28, 1993
An Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, was called to order by
Mayor Maryanov, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday, July 29, 1993,
at 7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Hodges, Lyons, Reller-Spurgin, Schlendorf and
Mayor Maryanov
Absent: None
The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag and a moment of silence.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance with
Council procedures on July 23, 1993,
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. UTILITY USER TAX
A "public meeting" on the consideration of a utility user tax was held on July 21, and this is the
time noticed for a public hearing thereon.
(Note: At the beginning of the meeting, the City Manager,in response to question by the,Mayor,
stated that the Director of Parks, Recreation & Golf Course will be meeting with the School
District, and will be developing details as to the revenue and expenditures related to the Swim
Center, and it should be ready for discussion at the August 3 study session).
Director of Finance highlighted his report, stating that the Council would be re-implementing the
Utility User Tax, and explained the conditions under which exemptions would be provided, for
both individuals and businesses; that the tax does not apply to any other political subdivision of
the State, e.g., the School District; and that the proposed actions include an agreement with the
Gas Company regarding information access confidentiality.
Mayor declared the hearing open, and reminded the audience of the Council's new 5-minute limit (140-
rule during public hearings. 007
Tom Simpson, 2055 Nicola Road, asked for a definition of"sunset", and whether the voters will
be able to decide if the tax is to continue, or if the Council will in July, 1994, act on its own to
do so.
Mayor responded that the Council has said it will end in June, and before that time, he hoped to
go to the ballot for a vote if the people want it continued.
Eric Langman, P.S. Hotel Association, stated that he previously provided a letter to the Mayor
and Council(on file with City Clerk),adding that the hotel industry has been hard hit by the poor
economy, and wished to share in the tax, and asked that the Council recognize there are many
properties that a 5% would mean$25,000-35,000 in tax dollars, and many properties are being
operated by banks, or on the verge of foreclosure, or operating with no profit.
David Cooper, 1781 San Angelo, stated that the question is not that there is a need for more
money, but many people are concerned that if the new revenue is generated, that it be spent on
programs that the public wants.
The following children asked that the parks and pool not be closed, nor the lights shut off for
soccer and little league:
Eric Simpson, Ray McNeel (Jacques Road), several children whose names were unintelligible;
Scot Austin, 663 Majorca.
Wil Kliendienst, resident, stated that the concern is whether the taxes will pay for programs and
activities that are important, that there is no guarantee with a general tax, and that if the $120
estimated per household is paid, will residents still be asked to fund programs for children and
families,and asked that the Council address the issues of the pool,parks, senior center,police and
fire with the expected funds.
The following persons spoke in support either of the Piranhas, keeping the Swim Center open,
keeping the parks open, soccer and little league:
Council Minutes '
7-28-93, Pg. 2
1. UTILITY TAX (Continued)
Kelly Bum, 2064 Calle Felicia, Duane Bergman, 2388 Via Escuela; Lupe Diaz, 411 E. Racquet
Club(also submitted photograph of what she contended was a parks worker hand watering palm
trees on Mesquite near Williams Road, and that he should be used to maintain the park, and
commented re Victoria,B.C.,being asked to aid in the cost for the park maintenance);Rick West,
490 Molina; Robin West, Molino Road; Vicki Simpson, 2055 Nicola(asked who made decision
to close parks, and suggested they were shortsighted and should be fired or not re-elected); Linda
La Plant (sp9), Jessica Pollak, Ramon Park, and a girl (name unintelligible).
Lucille Gabriel, 500 S. Farrell, stated that she was a volunteer at the Visitor Information Center,
and felt there was waste which could be eliminated, and save money, and the guide should be sold
and not mailed or given away free of charge; she also thought the VIC should be closed and the
Chamber provide the information to the public; that it is cheaper to clean up graffiti than to close
the pool; and that unlicensed persons should have to pay a business license before advertising in
the newspaper.
Christine Hoy, 657 Majorca, stated that the Council must look to itself and work with the
community in developing goals, and should expect that the budget will continue to be a problem
in the years to come, in that she felt it was only the beginning of the struggle with the State
government over financing; that the Council must guard the City's resources; that assessments for
parks and recreation must be carefully considered,and should be part of feasibility study that goes
on with the operation of any program, and she was surprised the City does not already have such
studies in place; that responsible parties must develop stability for parks and recreation, and the
Council's job is to see that it is done. She asked that the Council re-discuss the recent land
purchase of$400,000. (Note: This item was not immediately responded,but subsequently it was
noted that the purchase referred to related to the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and was not a
General Fund supported item.)
Jean&Gil Aubrielle, 2665 Cypress, stated that the utility tax does not remedy issues which are 140-
dear to residents, and asked that the Council proceed with the assessment districts, which are 007
being used with good results in other cities, which can save parks and the pool.
There were no further appearances, and the hearing was closed, followed by a five-minute recess,
after which, Councilmember reconvened.
City Manager stated that the utility tax is an interim measure, and the Council will be talking
about other financing alternatives (See the following item).
Mayor stated that the "district" element is a long process, which could not be voted on at this
time,and would not raise any funds for 93-94. He restated the budget deficit as it was originally,
and that the utility tax is intended to fill a$2.7 shortfall of balancing the deficit after numerous
cuts in positions,services and programs. He noted that one person telephoned to expressly submit
opposition, Carla Johnson.
Councilmember Lyons stated that he agreed with Mr. Langman's concerns, and did not think 4-5
properties should bear the heaviest burden of the tax; that$25,000-30,000 is not acceptable,given
how much the Council depends on the industry for the T.O.T.; that he would like to cap the
combined amount per month at$1,500 for both individuals and businesses, recognizing that there
may,have to be a rebate applied for.
Comments by Council noted that this would result in a significant drop in expected revenue; that
there would need to be a fiscal analysis to demonstrate this point more clearly; that ultimately the
consumer will pay for the tax; and that if the amount is in excess of 20% of the gross business,
it comes under the hardship provision.
Mayor stated that the entire Council does not like the tax; however, it is the only option that the
Council can enact now to deal with the 93-94 budget; that the Council agrees to a sunset clause
and not to extend the tax without a vote;that without the utility tax,coupled with employee benefit
reductions,the alternate is to cut 100-115 additional positions,over the near 10% reduction in staff
since the Council took office in 1992.
Councilmember Schlendorf stated the fiscal crisis was as foreseeable as an earthquake; that over
1 million jobs have been lost in Southern California, businesses have been bankrupted, and
foreclosures resulting lost property taxes;that Palm Springs is not unique in that light,and the city
did nothing wrong to bring about the crisis; that sales tax losses and big drops in the room tax are
part of what is happening in the State; that between the economy and the State Legislatures
actions, the City has lost$6 million and the Redevelopment Agency has also lost funds; that the
Council cut$5.5 million,or almost 20% of the budget,which is a large amount since the budget
y� v
Council Minutes
7-28-93, Pg. 3
1. UTILITY TAX (Continued)
has been steadily cut over the past several years; that the utility tax fills the gap,otherwise the cut
would be $8 million, and would mean closing all parks, not just two, and all other recreation
programs, and probably result in selling the land which could never be regained; that no one
expected the recession to last so long; and that she thinks the community wants police, fire, save
streets, and the community to survive, which means having to give up certain things for a period
of time, unless funds are found through other non-government solutions.
Mayor agreed, and added that the Council did not just wake up one day in June to this problem,
rather it began addressing the issues last Fall,by holding public forums and providing information
about the$8 million deficit; that the deficit has not changed; that both the staff and the Council
are doing their jobs; that the closing of the parks or pool was a clear statement to the citizens that
the Council needs help for both the short and term, to keep them open.and people are beginning
to work together in a constructive way to address that,and the Council agreed to defer closing the
parks until the end of August, 1993;and that other departments,such as building and plarming are
essential for both safety and economic growth.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that people need to focus on what can be done to change the
economy of Palm Springs, which is to encourage business and to support local businesses, not to
take their tax dollars to other communities which only helps to support:other communities. She
pointed out that the Council took a strong stand in support of business when it addressed the
shopping center at Vista Chino, and she believed sent a clear message that the Council attitude is
one of pro business and it will do everything it can to bring business here and to help change the
economy.
Councilmember Hodges stated that has consistently opposed the utility tax, and will continue to
do so; that she does not believe that government can be bailed out by going to the people and
asking them to supplement government; that she thinks it is the most unfair of all to individuals
and to business,will hurt more than help,and merely goes into the pot to balance the budget, and
used for whatever purpose; that she is not opposed to a fair tax applied throughout the community
and for a specific purpose; that she supports the community service district idea for police, fire,
parks and the pool, or other specified purposes, and believes that must be considered; that the
hotel industry has said that some of its members will pay$30,000-40,000 in utility tax alone and
that is a big burden on an industry already hurting; that individuals are hurting, and especially
people on fixed incomes who have seen interest rates dwindle their income; that the Federal
government is looking at a 10% gas tax, the State wants the local funds,and the County is looking
at adding 1/2 cent to the sales tax, and this proposal for a 5% utility tax; that she did not think
the public can bear it; that the government must live within its means, which means setting (140•-
priorities - fire, police, parks, recreation, library, or whatever - and maybe that is where the 007)
employees should be and additional departments cut further.
City Attorney requested that in considering the Gas Company agreement, he will need to work
with the company to make certain that the agreement does not restrict access under the Public
Records Act, and if that cannot be worked out, the agreement would be brought back to the
Council.
City Clerk read title of the Ordinance, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CIT"Y OF PALM SPRINGS,
CALIFORNIA, REBVSTATING CHAPTER 3.32 OF THE PALM SPRINGS
MUNICIPAL CODE RELATING TO UTILITY USER TAXES.
It was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Schlendorf, and carried by the following vote, that
further reading be waived, and that the Ordinance be introduced for first reading:
AYES: Lyons, Reller-Spurgin, Schlendorf and Maryanov
NO: Hodges
ABSENT: None
Resolution 18154 establishing exemptions from the utility user tax, and Resolution 18155
approving confidentiality agreement with The Gas Company, in form approved by City Attorney,
were presented;after which,it wits moved by Schlendorf,seconded by Reller-Spurgin,and carried
by the following vote, that R18154 and 18155 be adopted:
AYES: Lyons, Reller-Spurgin, Schlendorf and Maryanov
NO: Hodges
ABSENT: None
Council Minutes
7-28-93, Pg. 4
1. UTILITY TAX (Continued)
Mayor restated comments as to additional cuts that would be needed withoui the tax, leading to
further reductions in police and parks, and adding that there is no city that can function without
other departments, e.g., Finance which audits and collects revenues, Planning which approves
projects and processes plans, and Building to make sure structures are safe for people to occupy;
that it is a balancing act to keep all services running. He asked the City Manager to look into the
question of non-payment of business licenses for those businesses which are advertising locally.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
a) The following persons spoke concerning the parks and the Swim Center:
Mike Burke, 1922 San Clemente (?), asked what can be done to keep the parks open.
Tracey McFarlane, suggested heavier marketing of tourism and the pool.
Jeff Keen, on behalf of AYSO, stated that AYSO and Little League, have signed
agreements with the City for years, spelling out how much they would pay and what
services they would receive in return;that in September, 1992,agreements were executed
and returned to the City, however, they were never signed by the City, nor was AYSO
advised and they were led to believe that the terms of the agreement would prevail for
the following three years; that there can be no soccer program without the lights at
DeMuth Park,and when they checked on rumors that about the lights two weeks ago, he
found that the agreement had not been signed, and was told that the City could not meet
its financial conditions for the next three years; that a four week notice that the lights
were going to be shut off and the programs finished was inconsiderate; that AYSO is a
large organization and could have done fundraisers or other things to help the City, but
it was never included in the decision or asked for input.
Woman(name unintelligible)stated that the Piranhas were only given 4 hours notice that
the pool would be closed, and commented on swim records of local team members.
Steve Letzberg(sp?), E. Ramon Road,commented on swim meets, the number of people
who attend,and revenue generated to Palm Springs,adding that if the pool is closed, they /a
will go elsewhere.
Mr. Aubrielle, restated need for assessment district, and Council's help in formation of
it, adding that more time is needed because so many people are not here in August.
Carol Austin, resident, stated that she felt the Council was contradictory in its comments
that the crisis was not predictable-but was out in the community last Fall dealing with
the deficit; that the Council has been in office for sometime,and has only just concluded
that it is going to support business; that if the two low-income parks are closed, the larger
parks will be next and the community will be left with a skeleton and the Council will
not have anything to govern; that the Council needs to focus on creating business; that
all services that are here now are needed; and challenged there is more needed that
closing or taxing.
Greg Arnold, Rosarito Way, questioned whether the closing of the pool will impact the
cogeneration plant and costs associated with it; that the community needs parks,
recreation as well as police and fire, and if there must be a scaling back, then so be it;
that he did not want any part of a city that has no place for children or families, except
shopping malls, downtown and the streets.
Richard West, Molino Road, stated that the Piranhas had agreement with the City and
paid rent to cover their expense; and that if the tax is imposed it not be longer than 15-24
months and then removed.
Genine Barr (sp?), P.S. Little League, stated that the Mayor appealed for grass roots
efforts,however, the Little League and other groups are volunteer organizations,serving
hundreds of children in the community, some of which participate in more than one of
the program, and the Council action hits some of the same families; that they were not
allowed any input into the decision; that there is a better way to resolve the problem; and
that the groups offer scholarships to needy families that will be adversely impacted.
Jim Sullivan,commented on his family's involvement with Piranhas, and its value to the
development of the larger community now and in the future.
Council Minutes
'7-28-93, Pg. 5
PUBLIC COMMENTS (Continued)
Dave Cooper, San Angelo, stated that a lighting and landscaping assessment district can be put
together in a few months, and does not require any other approval than that of the Council; that
the sale of the Convention Center would eliminate the shortfall; and that no one seems to be
looking for ways to get out of other services and the City's first priclrity should be that of the
people.
Fran McNml, Jacques Road, stated that the task force has met three times and good ideas are
being generated on fundraisers, and presented applications for Parks For People, to the
Councilmembers.
Michelle DePietro, Racquet Club Road, offered to work on anything to help save the parks, and
asked if the Council will match any funds which are raised.
Frank DePietro, Racquet Club Road, stated that the Council is trying to save money, but he
questioned why it was directed at everything pertaining to youths; and that he was thinking about
moving out of the city.
James Ross(?), Viminal, stated that the Council spends a lot of money bringing tourists here,and
residents should not have to worry about saving the parks for only$60,000; that residents can
move down valley and get the same or better service; that the Council needs to increase police
service, and cited examples of unsafe conditions, i.e. on Indian Avenue and at Ruth Hardy Park.
Lee Vinocour, suggested that paid employees be replaced with volunteers; and that revenue
generators like the raceway and Spring break have been killed.
Clancy Yoder, resident, stated that the utility tax will makeup the lost: revenue, and that it has
worked in other communities he has been involved with for many years; and that the City has a
very good staff; and that the Governor has said a 1/2 cent sales tax measure will be on the
November ballot to provide funding for safety services.
Steve Grasha, Soulhridge Drive, stated he did not believe it cost$70,000 for the pool maintenance
for the period of time proposed to be closed, and questioned whether it means laying off an
employee, or simply transferring the person elsewhere.
Councilmember Lyons asked for clarification of the figures regarding the pool and the
cogeneration plant. He also asked that an opportunity for discussion and possible action
concerning NAFTA and the number of trucks that will be coming through the Valley be placed
on the next regular agenda.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin asked for followup on the AYSO and Little League contracts.
Councilmember Schlendorf pointed out that the Council has not closed all parks, and that there
is still over$1 million budget for recreation program, and $1.6 million for parks maintenance.
b) Comments concerning Item 3:
Dan Summers asked that he be allowed to comment when the matter is discussed. Mayor (116-
stated that the hearing was closed. 094:1
c) Comments related to matters not on the agenda:
George Goldberg commented on out-of-town vendors,Harley Davidson motorcycles,and
his opinion of Tony Aguilar.
Bill Byrne, Overlook Road, commented on NAFTa, and expressed great conoern as to
the impact of unregulated trucks and drivers coating from Mexico and polluting the
Valley and possibly destroying both agricultural and tourism industries.
Councilmember Lyons asked that an opportunity for discussion and possible action be
placed on the next regular agenda.
Mayor declared a 5-minute recess
Council Agenda 'I
7-28-93, Pg. 6
2. FINANCING ALTERNATIVES
At the July 20 study session, Council directed that consideration of various financing alternatives
be placed on the agenda at this time, which include: 1) a community service district, 2) fire
suppression assessment district, 3) various other types of assessment districts, 4) a Mello Roos
community facilities district, and 5) an advisory ballot concerning a utility user tax. Discussion,
action and/or direction may be provided.
City Manager recommended that Option 4 be deferred for the time being; that Option 1
necessitates a LAFCO process and possibly a 2/3 voter approval; that Option 2 could be started,
recognizing that the fire consolidation effort is still moving forward and this option would not
impede that effort; and that Option 3 could be started, recognizing the likelihood of encouraging
others to become involved and the strong community element of support for it.
Councilmember Hodges stated that the Council must decide what it wants to accomplish with
whichever route it takes, e.g., to supplement the budget, increase it, or whatever; that she prefers
the community services district approach for both maintaining the budget and for increased police
and fire; that she would like parks included in terns of providing stability for the future; that she
felt a lot of information is needed before making the decision of which way to go; that Option 2
may not mean anything and staff time should not be diluted, rather to focus on one option; and
she questioned if police and fire could be included in a CSD.
City Manager stated that there is a broad representation of issues that can be included, and
possibly only require a 50% vote; that in pursuing the various options, one or two may fall out
because the remaining option is superior, and decisions might have to be made in January or
February; that he appreciated the concern about staff time, and the Fire Department has good
guidelines to follow regarding the benefit assessment, and staff has also some of the lighting
district preparation in hand.
Councilmember Schlendorf stated that the City cannot go forward as "business as usual," rather
there must be a restructuring of the City, and she asked that the Council form a subcommittee of
itself or other community members, to develop and have plans in place to come to the community
with; that approval is needed to start the processes, but there must be a heavy involvement by the (140-
Council and citizens, and there must be a sincere promise s to what will happen whether the 001)
measures passes, or fails; and that she would like it placed on the next agenda the formation of
a committee on reorganization of government,and how it will be run,when the new taxing ability
is in place.
Councilmember Hodges agreed, totally, adding that many ideas were heard during the budget
review; that the fiscal year began one month ago, and the Council has not looked at those ideas,
and before long, the budget process will start again, and she would like the committee to look at
those ideas, regardless of where they originated, and see which can be implemented. She also
questioned whether maintenance, or new improvements was contemplated under the Lighting&
Landscape Maintenance District; and the effect of same on existing district, and on Indian land.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated Option 3 appeared the most logical; that it is a protest vote;
that the CSD requires a 2/3 approval; and she favored finding the resource to bring in the$2.4
million and maintain the services related thereto.
Councilmember Lyons stated that he agreed on Option 1; that he thought Option 3 would be easier
to deal with procedurally and create the least financial impact on the community and property
owners; that he favored restructuring government to do business in different ways; that he felt a
charter city was the long term solution to bring about changes; that he wants to look for ways to
raise revenue rather than through tax and spend philosophy; that he sees the options as safeguards
and not a panacea.
In answer to question by Council, Director of Finance stated that relative to the assessment
district, it would not be on the tax rolls until 1994-95, and would be required to be completed by
August, 1994.
Mayor stated that he felt a blue ribbon committee of citizens and staff was needed to look at ways
of reducing costs; that the fire consolidation issue must be looked at to see if it is viable-likewise
police services-as to what the implications and cost savings are for both; that a survey of police
department organization and cost cutting should at least be reviewed; that the Council must move
forward looking at how the money is spent and how the City is organized and how to provide the
services and what can be done better; that privatizing certain operations; e.g., the golf course,
must be looked at as to the benefits of doing so.
Council Minutes
7-28-93, Pg. 7
2. FINANCING ALTERNATIVES (Continued)
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that staff
proceed with Items 1 and 2, and ordered to prepare plans, specs and cost estimate on Item 3.
3. PD 227 - P.R. TAYLOR (APPEAL)
On July 21, the Council conducted public hearing on the consideration of appeal by the P.R.
Taylor Group from Planning Commission denial of a planned development district in-lieu of a
change of zone to CSC(community shopping center);and initiation by the City for a General Plan
amendment to provide a CSC designation at the SE comer of Sunrise and Vista Chino, currently
P/RGA-6 zone, Section 12, and overruled the Commission and approved the General Plan
amendment. Additionally,the Council continued consideration of the remaining items to this date.
Note: Conditions 55, 60,6162 and Zoning Ordinance requirement that gas stations not be closer
than 500 feet to each other, were requested by the developer for reconsideration. The following
consensus was reached on each point:
Condition 55: No objection expressed to allowing 4 drive-through facilities,retaining requirement
that each be subject to Planning Commission review, and screened to maximum extent reasonably
possible.
Condition 60: A revision to loading and delivery times was discussed, and a compromise reached
to limit hours from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m.
Condition 61: Provided that requirement to increase the planter on the southern boundary shall
remain, unless revised by the Planning Commission.
Condition 62: Concerning 24-hour security guards:
Planner Goodwin stated that the only other project approved which had a similar requirement was
the prior application for a shopping center on this same site; and that one suggestion was that the
security be required whenever the business hours were in effect.
Councilmember Hodges suggested several compromises: a dusk to dawn requirement; or unless (l 16-
the condition is later revised by the Planning Commission; or perhaps for individual stores as they 09'1
proceed,rather thana requirement of the developer; or providing for a review by the Commission
after six months.
Councilmember Lyons stated the; dusk to dawn seemed acceptable; that the high wall and no
visibility between the properties seemed a high crime risk; and that perhaps it should not be
required at all, and if a problem develops, then it could be added.
City Attorney stated that the condition could be worded to provide that the Commissions has the
right to review the need for on-site security, and to require it later if that is so established.
Councilmember Schlendorf expressed a concern that mandating the security is making a statement
that there is a problem in this area, and it is possibly discriminating against the neighborhood,and
imposing a condition that is not uniformly applied to other shopping centers.
Mayor stated that he felt the City's fiscal condition imposes new rules, in that safety cannot be
augmented without new taxes, and security should be a part of any new project.
Councilmember Hodges stated that the Commission could review the condition each year; that it
is not a matter of the neighborhood location, rather the times of today; that the City may not have
as many police as needed for patrol, and if additional assistance is obtained from developers, it
would be appreciated.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that if a property is developed, and the problem arises, the
solution would be found; and that is what keeps businesses coming here.
Result: Condition to be in language substantially as stated by City Attorney(on as-needed basis).
Concerning the 500-ft requirement:
City Attorney stated that this is a. Zoning Ordinance provision throughout the Code, and legally
must be amended, which would allow it to apply to any site, and not just this site; and if
approved, the applicant could seek a modification through the Planning; Commission.
t ;
Council Minutes
7-28-93, Pg. 8
3. PD 227 - P.R. TAYLOR (APPEAL) (Continued)
Consensus: No objection expressed to Planning Commission processing an amendment to the
Zoning Ordinance.
Planner Goodwin noted minor language changes in Conditions 55, 80 and 1.00.
Resolution 18156 overruling the Commission, and approving the project with conditions(revised
Nos. 55, 60, 61, and 62), was presented; after which it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded
by Schlendorf, and unanimously carried, that R18156 be adopted.
City Clerk read title of Ordinance, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING THE
ZONING MAP BY APPROVING A PRELIMINARY PLANNED DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
IN-LIEU OF A CHANGE OF ZONE FOR A COMMUNITY SHOPPING CENTER, P AND
RGA(6) ZONES, SECTION 12.
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously earned, that further
reading waived, and that the Ordinance be introduced for first reading.
4. MUNICIPAL CODE AMENDMENT - STUDY SESSIONS
Staff Recommendation: That the Council amend the Municipal Code to provide the study
sessions, including appropriately called closed sessions, shall be established by resolution of the
Council, in order to simplify future changes in day and time.
City Clerk highlighted her memorandum,noting that the Council clarified at the study session that
the intent of its motion in approving revisions to the Rules of Procedure Manual intended that
study sessions on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday shall commence at 5 p.m., preceded by a Closed (103-
Session from 5-5:30 p.m.; and that all other study sessions shall commence at 5 pm. on 001)
Wednesday, preceded by Closed Session from 5-6:30 p.m.
City Attorney added that the Council may implement the change, merely by]raving the City Clerk
adjourn the Tuesday scheduled study sessions to he following Wednesday, until the Ordinance
becomes effective.
It was the consensus of the Council to begin implementation of the policy on Wednesday, October
4, 1993.
City Clerk read title of the Ordinance, as follows:
AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING
SECTION 2.04.015, OF CHAPTER 2.04 OF THE PALM SPRINGS MUNICIPAL CODE
CONCERNING STUDY SESSIONS.
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that further
reading he waived, and that the Ordinance he introduced for first reading.
ADDED STARTER:
S. SB1234 -OPPOSITION
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that Council
need for action concerning SB1234 occurred subsequent to the posting of the agenda, and added
it to the agenda.
This matter was discussed in study session, and no further report was given; urgency related to (098-
SB1234 passed by the Senate, which would negatively impact local tax revenue. 001)
Resolution 18157, to oppose SB1234 re State funding, was presented; after which, it was moved
by Schlendorf, seconded by Reller-Spurgin, and unanimously tamed, that R18157 be adopted.
ADJOURN
There being no further business, Mayor declared the meeting adjourned.
V' DITH SUMICH
City Clerk