HomeMy WebLinkAbout1994 - MINUTES - 2/16/1994 n 4 ! 1
CITY OF PALM SPRINGS
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES
FEBRUARY 16, 1994
A Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, was called to ordor by Mayor
Maryanov, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday,February 16, 1994,at
7:30 p.m.
ROLL CALL: Present: Cormcilmembers Hodges, Lyons, Reller-Spurgin, Schlendorf and '
Mayor Maryanov
Absent: None
The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag led by Boy Scout Troop 262, and an invocation
by Dr. David Jenkins, Community Church of Palm Springs.
REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance
with Council procedures on February 10, 1994.
PRESENTATIONS: The following presentations were made: a) Fire Department Award to Art &
Clarice Barrett b) Mayor's Proclamation: ToughLove, International; and c) P.S. H.S. Student Body
Report.
INDUSTRIALDEVELOPMENT,HOUSING&FINANCING AUTHORITIES;AND COMMUNITY
REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: No business
CLOSED SESSION REPORT: City Attorney reported on matters discussed in closed session, as
shown on the Statement of Basis for Closed Session, dated March 2, 1994, and that no action was
taken. (Copy of Statement on file with City Attorney, and attached to agenda of this date.)
APPROVAL OF MINUTES:
It was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, that the Minutes of '
January 19 and 26, 1994, be approved.
PUBLIC HEARINGS:
1. CITYWIDE PUBLIC NUISANCE ABATEMENTS
On January 19, 1994, the Council received for filing Nuisance Abatement Proceedings &
Accounting Reports (32) and hearing was set by the City Clerk; property owners have been
notified of time and place for hearing. City Manager highlighted the memorandum of Director
of Building& Safety.
Mayor declared the hearing opened. (057-
001)
Lee Vinocour, North Palm Springs, asked what the abatements included, and commented that
there should be a definition of the difference between a public nuisance and a private nuisance,
and it is not a public nuisance if only two people are involved.
Director of Building&Safety reported that the abatements related to refuse and waste, sewer,
pools, fire hazards,boarded buildings,and dangerous buildings,and that one of the abatements
was paid prior to the hearing.
There were no further appearances, and the hearing was closed.
Resolutions 18298 through 18328 confirming reports & ordering; liens were presented; after
which, it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Schlendoif, and unanimously carried, '
that R18298 through 18328 be adopted.
INTERAGENCY REPORTS:
a) Councilmember Lyons reported on a Healthy City Project briefing and the purpose
of the Program, and as part of that, a joint CVAG project to address graffiti valley-
wide. He added that the Healthy City Project is a means of organizing to locate
funding and mobilize toward solving problems selected by the community on a broad
range of health issues. Councilmember Schlenclorf stated that she and
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin will attend training sessions and be working toward
developing programs for the City and prioritize its needs.
Council Minutes r.
2-16-94, Page 2
b) Mayor reported on results of the first meeting of the Fire Consolidation committee,
noted that it will meet each month, with a work agenda between meetings, and that
chair and location of the meetings will rotate between the two cities/mayors.
PUBLIC COMMENTS:
' a) Comments concerning Item 2:
Gary Bosworth, stated there is a need for diversity on the PSTV Board of Directors,
and he submitted a proposal as to its makeup.
Linda Cooper Lee stated that the Board will be closed, that there will be no reruns,
that the group has no history of running access TV, that city equipment will be given
to them, and they will charge for its use.
Frank Fowler urged that a group be selected which has integrity to do it, and at least (089—
try them. 003)
Fred Ebeling considered the Board a closed one, self-seeking and not public access;
that he felt the Council's action was clear eight months ago, and the citizens have a
right for input as to their public access, and to know what the Council is doing.
Lee Vinocour in his opinion the Council was wearing a yoke if it did not know the
people who were getting the public access contract; that his group was willing to do
it at no cost to the City; and questioned what it takes for people to get involved in
their own life.
b) Comments concerning Item A10:
Joan Taylor, Sierra Club, indicated that the local unit endorses it, and that Palm
Springs will especially benefit from the funding for natural and cultural
considerations, trails and the protection of the environment and create more forest
amenities.
Katie Barrows, Friends of the Desert Mountains, stated that the cost of the bond
measure would be $50 per person per month based on 1980 census, and draws on
existing State general funds which will retire a 1974 bond issues, and make additional (098
debt; that the interest rate is favorable, as well as the land prices; that $138,000 001)
CDBG one-time funding will be available for local parks, $18 million for the CV Mt
Conservancy, and $8 million in the Palm Springs area, $2.5 million for the Tribal
Council museum, heritage park and visitor center.
c) Comments on other matters not on the agenda:
Citywide Parks &Lighting Assessment District:
Matilda Jones urged voting against the district; and stated she has heard many
comments regarding the district, i.e., people on fixed incomes cannot afford it; that
the City is not building new street lights with the funds; that an advisory vote is not
easily explained; and that as an assessment it is not tax deductible.
Jim Jones stated the Council should not take action under ballot measures, because
in his opinion the public is confused over the possible advisory vote, and many think (138—
they do not need to attend the public hearing, nor submit a protest, and he questioned 004)
if the assessment is a tax deduction, in that it could be seen as an improvement
instead.
' Lucille Bayless stated the tax is not fair to the people who own property, and it is
incorrectly spread.
Darrell Meeks stated that his suggestion for a local sales tax was to consider other
revenue sources, e.g., sales tax on services, a local income tax, recognizing that such
need to be approved by the State and voters; that he would like to see the utility tax
and assessment district as one measure. He also expressed opinion that it was
ridiculous to spend$12,500 on a visitor guide when the City has a budget crisis; that
the tax for the swap meet vendor is unfair, i.e., his would total $900 per year, as he
will occupy three spaces, and the tax should be based on the business.
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 3
Other Continents:
Eric Meeks urged that the Council retain the passenger rail focus on Palm Springs;
that people need to join in telling others that Palm Springs is the most (prestigious
resort; that people should support the utility tax and assessment district, and sales tax
so everyonr can invest in Palm Springs and keep the parks open and the business
district thriving, and streets safe. ,
Bob Stranger, Southern California Edison Regional Manager reported that materials
are being distributed to help customers lower energy hills, and he will provide
information and followup to the Council.
Tracey Gunneman stated that Rent Control was established by voter approval, and a
majority vote would repeal it; that rent control guarantees a benefit to temmts and
landlords, and explained the hardship petition process; and stated that fie felt rent
control led to the renovation of apartments on Tahquitz Canyon Way, which were
allowed to deteriorate.
John Booth complimented the Council for the improvements at the Airport.
LEGISLATIVE ACTION:
2. CATV - PUBLIC ACCESS/GOVERNMENT ACCESS TELEV'[SION OPERATOR FOR
CHANNEL 17
Recommendation: That the Council approve 3-year agreement with Palm Springs Television
Voices to operate a public/government access television channel (Channel 17) for 3 years, in
accordance with the provision of RFP7-94, A3338.
(Note: At this point discussion followed concerning broadcasting; the February 23 meeting,
see Item under Staff reports at end of meeting).
City Librarian reviewed his report, which details the committee's, recommendation to award '
to P.S. T.V., incorporation pending, to operate channel 17, effective March 1, 19�94; that its t 08'3-
Board meetings will be open to the public; that the Council will appoint two of its members; 00 3)
that it provides a 90-day mutual cancellation, without cause, and noted other highlights of the
agreement as described in his report.
Councilmember Schlendorf asked if the agreement could in;hide the Human Rights
Commission mission statement,with respect to filling appointments to Board membership, and
as the Council has stated in its comnussion appointment policy, looking for diversity of the
community.
Mayor stated that he felt the non-discrimination issue is addressed in the agreement, and any
violation would be grounds for cancellation of the agreement; that the technical expertise will
be sought for its membership; and that he agreed diversity is something that should be worked
toward.
Councilmember Hodges asked that the following be addressed:
a. Page 2, clarification of"Warner Franchise Area," and"Warner Service Area" are the
same, or different definitions. City Attorney to follow-through.
b. Throughout document, whenever term "subject to the approval of the city" appears,
it should mean the city council, i.e., Page 5, section 3, ]Page 7 section C, Page 11,
sections 11 and 12, and Page 10, section F.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin asked that in addition to the above change on Page 10, that it
reflect such filing with both the city staff and city council, as staff will have expertise to bring
issues forward to the Council.
City Librarian clarified that whenever the Council is "dark" it does not place the provider in
default.
A P.",,,
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 4
2. CATV (Continued)
Councilmember Schlendorf noted that the meetings of the Board will be open meetings under
the Brown Act, requiring agendas; and that members will be subject to conflict of interests and
report filing; and that the provider has shown that they want to resolve some of the conflict
that was originally brought up when the agreements were first brought forward.
Mr. DeSantis stated that it appeared the Council was rewriting the agreement, and trying to
micro-manage, and he felt there are sufficient safeguards in the agreement; that there is the
termination clause; that they fully intend to act in the community's best interest, and only want
positive things to occur; that he felt they could operate very effectively through the City
Manager.
Mayor stated that the changes are internal to the city, rather than affecting working through
the city manager.
City Manager stated that the project has a high level of interest by the Council and that there
was no problem with such changes, and as a matter of course, he would bring such items to
the Council, and the changes merely codify the procedure..
Mayor stated that he felt there had been misrepresentations concerning the process that was
used; that when the Council was seated, it was clear that there was no funding for PEG and
it was a big burden on staff in the way it was functioning;that fundraising was attempted; that
Mr. DeSantis came forward with a comprehensive proposal in writing; that it was brought to
study session, at which others verbalized that they, too, wanted to make a proposal; that an
opportunity was provided for them to do so at a subsequent study session; that the
spokesperson seem unprepared, and the presentation included a videologue as to the benefits
of PEG access, but lacked a plan for implementation; that a separate comunittee was set up,
which excluded the Council, and the committee's unanimous recommendation was for the
PSTV group; and that every effort was made for everyone to participate.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin noted that Mr. Ebeling also submitted a letter praising the good
job of the committee.
Councilmember Hodges stated that a lot of accusations were made over the process and
decisions, and many rumors have been circulated; that facts should be obtained and checked
out, and if the rumors are to be spread, she strongly suggested that if there is any evidence to
substantiate it, they should go to the Grand Jury, otherwise get on with business.
Minute Order 5307 approving agreement as revised to reflect above changes, was presented;
after which, it was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Schlendorf, and unanimously
carried, that MO5307 be adopted.
3. CATV - GOVERNMENT ACCESS TELEVISION PLAN
Reconmrendation: That the Council approve an amended and restated Government Access
Television Operating Plan, originally adopted January 22, 1992, to be effective March 1,
1994, to reassign administrative responsibility for operation of the government access channel
from the Library Department to the P.S. Television Voices, contingent upon action in Item 2.
In answer to question by Council, City Librarian stated that there are two substantial changes
to the 1992 plan, i.e., reassignment of the administration and responsibility from the Library (089—
Board to PSTV, and reduction in lead time from 30 days to 10 days advance notice for city 003)
commission access.
' Minute Order 5308 as recotmnended was presented; after which, it was moved by Reller-
Spurgin, seconded by Lyons, and unanimously carried, that MO5308 be adopted.
4. BALLOT MEASURES
Discussion and consideration of ballot measures on June 7 election ballot, related to taxes,
assessments and other financing issues.
(083—
City Attorney reported on the deadlines for submitting ballot measures, and procedural actions 011)
that would be needed, and reviewed two sets of options, as detailed in his letter report to the
City Manager, dated February 14, a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk. He
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 5
4. BALLOT MEASURES (Continued)
explained rationale for the various options, noting that the Council has discussed) means of
surveying the public, and looking for better reading from it about options and directions for
the Council; that elections costs do not increase significantly with multiple measures, and the
ballot measures would become a means of getting that public information; that concerning
Option B-5 (whether to make cuts), voters may be willing to support one or both of a utility '
tax and the assessment district, and still favor making added cuts even with the revenue
stream, and he felt a reasonable voter would make the choice of either providing the revenue,
or making the cuts; and that between this date and ordering the ballot question, there would
need to be more discussion as to what those cuts and amounts might be.
Councihnernber Hodges stated that the options create a multiple-choice ballot., and she
considered it unimaginable that anyone would vote to yes to cutting those services, and felt
there are other ways of raising the fund without cutting those departments.
Cca ucilmember Lyons stated that the public has a right to know what the cuts are going to be.
City Attorney stated that if the majority voted for not making the cuts in service, it would be
an expression of sentiment that the Council must to do what it can without making those cuts
or raising revenue; that if after doing so, thete is still a financial gap, the results of the vote 011 )
could be used in helping to determine how to balance the budget, e.g., the percentage of
yes/no votes.
Councihnember Reller-Spurgin stated that she had suggested three different budgets, i.e., one
with the assessment district revenue, one with the utility tax, and one without either; that she
felt that input was needed for the emmnuoity to see the affect and what the cuts mean; that the
only means of achieving a$5 million,is by making drastic cuts; and that all of the departments
in the City may seem insignificant until someone needs them, e.g., in Los Angeles there were
not enough building inspectors to deal with the earthquake, and economic development staffing
relates to bringing in new revenue sources. '
City Manager stated he would try to get figures based on four budgets, so the appropriate
wording can be developed by March 2.
City Attorney stated that he can prepared the resolutions,and felt the direction of the Council
was for options under B, with a change in#3 to delete the "if" opening clause, and.more detail
on k5.
Mayor pointed out that the City has employee contracts, and is subject to meet and confer, and
it is not simply closing parks or laying off police, and if all parks were closed, there would
still be a shortfall.
City Manager stated that Option B will be refined and brought back as a guideline;on March
2, 1994.
5. P.S. VISITOR GUIDE
Recommendation: That the Council reject or approve proposal for a 3-year contract with
Desert Publications, Inc., to publish the P.S. Visitors Guide and, if rejected, provide staff
direction concerning the scope of the vendor pool to be involved iin a new RPP solicitation.
Mayor stated that he would abstain due to a client relationship, and turned the meeting over
to the Mayor pro tent.
Director of Marketing & Tourism reviewed her report, and explained that the program was ,
originally designed as a subsidy to get it started; that the contract expires in one year, and staff (050-
decided to go to bid with a program that would not require subsidy; that 19 local firms were 001)
sent proposals, and only one bid was submitted,which included a non-city subsidy, however,
it required hotels to pay$180 per month, and the number of guides increased 50%; that effort
was made to negotiate with the publisher to lower the rate on the:hotel ad rate, and increase
other ad rates proportionate to the increased number of guides to be published; that the reader
services card is included, and the publisher handles mailings on response cards -about 40,000
annually - which the department then does not have to handle; that the Visitor& Promotion
Board recommended going to bid nationally,and front a staff point of view a guide is needed;
II
that the publisher has a proven track record, provides a quality product, and is known to the
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 6
6. P.S. VISITOR GUIDE (Continued)
advertisers, and it is risky to take a chance that it may be for less money; and time is running
out because the contract ends in June and the best time to sell summer is now.
Councilmember Schlendorf questioned the City Attorney if she should abstain,noting that she
' and Desert Publications have common advertisers,but she has not dealt with the City for many
years. City Attorney stated that in the absence of a review, he recommended that she abstain.
Councilmember Hodges stated that she did not want to subsidize the ads, and perhaps the rates
could be more equitable between the hotels and other advertisers; that the hotels have been
subsidized for three years; and that the circulation will be increased, and it is reasonable that
the rates should also be increased.
In answer to questions by Council, Director of Marketing&Tourism reported that hotels pay
$200/month which is reduced by the subsidy to $180, and which was previously $150.
Purchasing Manager also responded and stated that bids were sent to only Coachella Valley
firms, and only one responded, and he did not know why specifically, except perhaps the
others could not handle the job; that the bid is sent to all firms with advertising staff,
regardless of the media involved, in an effort to provide as much opportunity as possible.
Councilmember Lyons stated that he appreciated the sensitivity of the time, and that the
provider is tried and a true product is produced, and finding other vendor might be better or
worse. His motion to approve the bid, without a subsidy was later withdrawn. He and
Councilmember Reller agreed that it would be hard to justify the $12,000 subsidy given the
City's budget situation, and that the dependence on tourism creates a double-bind in removing
the subsidy.
Councilmember Hodges stated that she did not feel the Council has enough information, and
she preferred delaying action to hear from the hotel owners, since she did not know how the
removed subsidy would affect the hotel industry; that it would represent a large increase over
the rates they are currently paying, and she would not want them to drop ads because they
cannot afford them; that she felt a better solution could be worked out.
City Manager suggested that the options be explored, and this matter be brought back at the
March 2 meeting.
So ordered.
6. TRACT 27674/PD 226 - BLW CONSTRUCTION INC. - SANDSTONE VILLAS
7. TRACT 27674 - BLW CONSTRUCTION INC.
Recommendation: That the Council approve an agreement with BLW Construction Company
to provide for the transfer of 240 acres of land in Blaisdell Canyon, thereby modifying
condition of approval concerning dedication of land for the above cases, A3339. Item
continued from February 2, 1994.
Recormnendation: That the Council approve final map for Tract 27674 to divide property for
condominium purposes at 1900 S. Palm Canyon Drive, Sec. 26. Item continued from (137-
February 2, 1994, 088)
Mayor stated he would abstain due to a client relationship, and turned the meeting over to the
Mayor pro tem.
Director of Planning & Zoning presented corrected resolution, noting minor changes, and
' proposed minute order to approve the agreement, and added that the developer is prepared to
transfer the property to the City; that a certificate of deposit has been made and a letter of
credit to secure acquisition of additional 200 acres, which the City may use if the developer
is unsuccessful in doing so within one year.
Minute Order 5309 approving the agreement, Resolution 18329 (Revised) authorizing
acceptance of the deed; and Resolution 18330, approving the final map, were presented; after
which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Schlendorf, and unanimously carried that
MO5309 and R18329 be adopted; and it was moved by Lyons, seconded by Schlendorf, and
unanimously carried, Maryanov abstaining, that R18330 be adopted.
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 7
S. TRAFFIC SIGNAL SAN RAFAELINDIAN CANYON
Recommendation: That the Council award contract to E.L. Yeager Construction Co., Inc.,
for installation of 4-way traffic signal and street widening improvements at Indian Canyon and
San Rafael Drive, CP91-15, SB300 State grant funded, and amend the budget to appropriate
additional funds from Gas Tax Reserves, A3340. City Manager highlighted the memorandum
of Director of Public Works. '
In response to question by Council, City Engineer reported that the right-of-way is (130-
approximately 20,000 square feet, and explained the FAU process for partially grant-funded 001 )
projects, which results in diminishing the likelihood of voluntary dedication of needed rights-
of-way, and that this signal will be the most costly signal in the City.
Minute Order 5310 and Resolution 18331 as recommended, were presented; after which, it
was moved by Schlendorf,seconded by Reller-Spurgin,and unanimously carried, that MO5310
and R18331 be adopted.
9. CALEXICO EAST BORDER CROSSING & NEW STATE RATE 7 PROJECT
Recommendation: That the Council review and if appropriate, support the Riverside County
Transportation Coaunission's challenge to Calexico East Border Crossing and new State Route
7 project. City Manager reviewed the memorandum of Director of Public Works, and it was
noted by the City Engineer that Palm Desert has joined in the support of the action.
Councilmember Lyons urged that the resolution be adopted, noting, that the truck station will
send NAFTA trucks through the valley, which will have a direct negative impact on the (144-
desert's environment. 003)
Councilmember Schlendorf added that the environmental impact on Highway 86 and increased
traffic should also be considered.
Resolution 18332 as recommnended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Lyons, '
seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, that R18332 be adopted.
10. BUSINESS LICENSE ORDINANCE AMENDMENT (Intro. 2-2-94)
Councilmember Hodges questioned if the tax could be applicable to per vendor, rather than
per space, and questioned if the purpose was to generate money, or to assure that the license
is obtained; and suggested an alternative to allow a limited number of spaces per vendor(3-5),
and anything over that would be taxed on additional space. She also asked if the $2 paid at
other swap meets was based on the space or the vendor.
Director of Finance report that the industry standard is$2 per space:, per vendor, and the intent
was that if a vendor occupied more spaces, there would be more people selling; and that one
vendor could take multiple spaces, then sublease them, and if only per vendor, would only pay
$2, and that an effort was made to compare to established business on a permanent based,
which is on the number of employees and varies proportionate to the size of the establishment.
Mayor stated that retail business license tax is based on the number of employees, not square (064-
footage, and more space generally means more people. 00:3)
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that she thought the intent was to make certain people
outside of the City have a business license; and that possibly if the:vendor has permanent site
in Palm Springs, the rate could be adjusted.
Councilmember Schlendorf stated that the space is to give the maximum amount of ability to '
sell; that the tax is equal to $936 per year rent, and is not much money for one year; that the
swap meet is different from downtown, and those merchants pay much more than$2 per day;
that one consideration is that the City would collect the taxes which would help counter some
of the bad effects of swap meets on the communities.
Mayor noted that likewise sales tax collection and policing of the operation were also part of
the consideration.
Councilmember Hodges stated that the tax is a tax on doing business, and is not money to
subsidize other the cost of other departments, and it is not a fair in this instance..
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 8
10. BUSINESS LICENSE ORD AMENDMENT(Continued)
City Clerk read title of Ordinance 1468 amending business license tax re swap meets; after
which, it was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Lyons, and unanimously carried to waive
farther reading; and it was moved by Schlendorf, seconded by Lyons,and unanimously carried
that 01468 be adopted:
' AYES: Lyons, Schlendorf& Maryanov
NOES: Hodges& Reller-Spurgin
NOES: None
ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS: (Satisfies agenda posting requirements; materials at meeting)
A10. CALPAW'94INITIATIVE
On February 9, 1994,the Council continued consideration of supporting the initiative,in order
to receive additional information.
City Manager highlighted memorandum from Katie Barrows,Friends of the Desert Mountains,
a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk.
In response to questions, Ms. Barrows stated that the initiative includes an allocation to the
City based on CDBG funds, estimated at $138,000, which is a one-time sum for local park (098-
projects; and that the Mountain Conservancy portion can be used for maintenance, and it may 001)
be possible that the local park allocation could also be used for maintenance.
Councilmember Schlendorf noted that the area could be looking at$5 million in benefit, and
that repayment will be the continuance of debt that is about to be paid off.
Resolution 18333 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Schlendorf,
seconded by Lyons, and unanimously carried, that R18333 be adopted.
CONSENT AGENDA:
11. MO 5311 award purchase of two 3-wheel parking control vehicles for parking enforcement by (084)
the Police Department to Frankson, Inc., for $35,387.17.
12. MO 5312 awarding purchase to BI Tran Systems, Inc., for a "quicknet traffic control and (117—
surveillance system," software, for$31,000, CP92-02. 006)
13. MO 5313 awarding contracts to R.F. Sweet &Associates for real estate appraisal for$8,200;
and to Empire Economics for a market absorption study for a private developer sponsored (056—
assessment district (A.D. 160) cost paid for by developer; district for off-site public 014)
improvements for Tract 26578, "Villages of Palm Springs,"an 83-acre project on North Palm
Canyon Drive and Gateway Way, A3341 and 3342.
14. MO 5314 awarding contract to Matich Corporation for widening El Cielo Road, from (136-
Mesquile to Sonora, for $271,184, CP93-44, 88.5% FAU grant funded, A3343. 022)
15. MO 5315 approving a one-year agreement with the Palm Springs Youth League for use of (109-
DeMuth Park and the field at Sunrise Plaza for baseball/softball program for Palm Springs' 005)
youth, A3344.
16. Res 18334 approving IRS 125 Plan documents and administration agreement with Benefit (110—
America, Inc., for implementation of the flexible spending accounts for all city employees, 007)
' A3345.
17. Res 19335 and 18336 approving Payroll Warrants and Claims &Demands. (086)
Reller-Spurgin abstaining on #883404.
It was moved by Reller-Spurgin, seconded by Lyons, and unanimously carried, that R18334
through 18337 and Minute Orders 5311 through 5315 be adopted.
ADDED STARTERS: None
,9 P s
Council Minutes
2-16-94, Page 9
REPORTS & REQUESTS
18. DEPARTMENTAL
a) Single Audit Report on Selected State&Fed. Assistance Programs, 92-93 -Receive (052-
for filing- Received for filing 001)
(
b) Treasurer's Monthly December, 1993 (filed 1-26-94 study session) 002 002))
CITY COUNCIL reports or requests
PUBLIC reports or requests
a) Jim Jones commenter) on the convention center, and suggested that it be closed, and
the City could save $5.25 million which would solve the entire budget problem.
City Manager reported that he would be happy to meet with Mr. Jones, and added
that the convention center has a bond issue against it, which covenants that the debt
service shall be budgeted for annually, and closure of the; facility would not relieve
the City of the debt.
STAFF reports or requests
City Manager stated that staff has checked on the possibility of live-broadcasting the February
23 meeting; that the cost will be approximately$1,500, and is contingent on making; the sound
system work; that the City Librarian will operate the camera; and if not successful, the tape
will be broadcast later.
In answer to questions by Council, City Librarian stated that the hook-up is a temporary
solution, and not permanent wiring of the auditorium; and that Channel 17 calendar shows it
as tape delayed and includes the hearing date information.
Councilmember Lyons questioned if it is crucial to have the information concurrent with the '
hearing; and Councilmember Reller-Spurgin slated that she was concerned about Rape delay,
in that if the meeting is lengthy, the hour for the delayed broadcast is very late.
Councilmember Hodges stated that she felt is was important to have the broadcast live; that
it is a major, city-wide issue; that the Council has already spent $37,000 bring the:district to
this point; that often people who are watching the meeting, come to address the Council, and
that it should be part of the process; and that an appropriate site fir broadcasting live should
have been selected initially.
Mayor stated that the high school was selected to make it accessible so more people could
come and participate, and televising it lets people know what is happening, but its significance
is lost if it not shown live.
Councilmember Reller-Spurgin stated that she agreed about the costs, and the need for public
input; and that the Council has not "put in" the district, but is only asked for input.
Consensus of the Council: Proceed with live-broadcasting of the meeting. Mayor noted that
City Manager will be in Sacramento on that date attending a CalTlrans meeting to discuss the
rail station; and Councilmember Schlendorf will be attending the training meeting for the
Healthy Cities Project representatives in Colorado.
City Manager also noted that there will be a budget retreat on March 12, 1994, beginning at
9 a.m., location to be announced. ,
ADJOURNMENT
There being no further business, Mayor declared the meeting adjourned to February 23, 1994,
at 7:30 p.m., Palm Springs High School Auditorium, for public hearing on Citywide Parks&
Safety Lighting Maintenance District.
< , ` L
UDITH SUMICH
City Clerk