Loading...
HomeMy WebLinkAbout1996 - MINUTES - 7/31/19960143 CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES JULY 31, 1996 An Adjourned Regular Meeting of the City Council of the City of Palm Springs, California, was called to order by Mayor Kleindienst, in the Council Chamber, 3200 Tahquitz Canyon Way, on Wednesday, July 31, 1996 at 6:00 p.m., at which time, the City Attorney announced items to be discussed in Closed Session, and at 7:00 p.m., the meeting was convened in open session. ' ROLL CALL: Present: Councilmembers Barnes, Hodges, Oden, Sputgin, and Mayor Kleindienst Absent: None The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag, and a Moment of Silence. PRESENTATION: Dr. Tom Davis, P.S. Boxing Club appreciation to City Council and staff REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that the agenda was posted in accordance with Council procedures on July 26, 1996. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All Entities) - See items on Page 5 of agenda this date. HOUSING AUTHORITY: FINANCING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY; COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: - No business APPROVAL OF MINUTES: It was moved by Hodges, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that the minutes of July 3 and 17, 1996 be approved; Oden abstaining on July 3 minutes. PUBLIC HEARINGS: 1. CUP 5.0680 - DESERT EQUITABLE Recommendation: That the Council approve a revised conditional use permit for condominium -hotel project by Desert Equitable for the Ocotillo Lodge on East Palm Canyon Drive. R-2 and R-3, Section 26. Mayor and Councilmember Bodges each stated they would abstain due to a client relationship. Director of Planting & Building reviewed his 'memorandum, noting that the amendment �078_ is consistent with the recent change to the Urgency Ordinance, i.e., the owner occupancy 08 restriction is removed, and room tax to be paid as a fee consistent with the ordinance, including one-time option by the City to revert to the standard form of collection of the tax. He noted the specific changes in the conditions. Mayor pro tem declared the hearing open. Phil Klatchko, attorney for the applicant, urged approval, and supported the conditions. There being no further appearances, dre hearing was closed. Resolution 18881 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Barnes, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, Hodges & Kleindienst abstaining, that R18881 be adopted. 4144 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 2 2. ZTA 5,0723 - MFG, BUILDING PERMITS & M1SC AMENDMENTS Recommendation: That the Council approve amendments to the Zoning Text concerning the Manufacturing Zone (building height), and Building Permits/Dedication and Improvements of Streets (required at time of property development); and other miscellaneous changes. Director of Planting & Building reviewed his memorandum, noting proposed changes, which apply to property north of I-10, west of Indian Canyon Drive, all of which is zoned (103- wind or industrial, i.e., the-htcrea§e in building height from 30 feet to 40 feet on 1 acre 046 ) or larger parcels, in order to accommodate cranes and other equipment, which works functionally with the parking space configurations as well; that the second amendment relates to single-family residential development, to increase the percentage of building addition which triggers requirement for street dedication and improvement from 10% to 40%, which is consistent with other communities and allows expansion by building permit only, and may reduce the number of "weekend" unpermitted additions. Mayor declared the hearing open; there were no appearances, and the hearing was closed. City Clerk read title of the Ordinance, as follows: AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY OF PALM SPRINGS, CALIFORNIA, AMENDING SECTIONS 9217-1.03c. AND 3909.00 OF THE ZONING ORDINANCE IN REGARD TO INCREASING THE ALLOWABLE BUILDING HEIGHT IN THE "M-2" ZONE AND DELETING REQUIREMENTS FOR RIGHT-OF-WAY DEDICATION FOR RESIDENTIAL PROJECTS WHICH DO NOT CREATE AN INCREASE IN INTENSITY OF LAND USE. after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that further reading be waived, and the Ordinance be introduced for first reading. 3. ZTA 5.400 - SIGNS Recommendation: That the Council receive input concerning amendments to the; Zoning Text concerning Signs, providing for revised standards for freeway -oriented signs, restaurant menu boards, attraction boards, signs for commercial and industrial centers, time -temperature displays, signs for auto dealerships, signs for multi-f tmily residential and hotel properties, hotel rate signs, election and political signs, construction signs, downtown commercial signs, and abatement of signs in the public right-of-way; along with other miscellaneous amendments; and refer matters as necessary to the Planning Commission. Director of Planning & Building stated that there have been Council study sessions and workshops to review details of the Sign Ordinance, during which various changes, additions and deletions were expressed; that the purpose of the hearing is to receive public testimony concerning the revised draft ordinance, and to refer it, with any other changes, (103- to the Planning Commission for report as to the changes from its original 038 ) recommendation; that the Commission will hold a regular meeting on August 14 and 28 and there is a study session on August 21, allowing it extra time in which to consider the ordinance, if needed. He summarized the changes, as detailed in his report, and added that some content areas will be looked at again with the City Attorney, to make certain they are appropriately structured. Mayor declared the hearing open; there were no appearances. It was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that the hearing be continued to September 18, 1996, and the draft ordinance be referred to the Planning Commission for report. 0,145 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 3 INTERAGENCY REPORTS: a) Councilmember Hodges reported on CVAG Executive Committee meeting, in which the Committee approved the waiver of TUMP fee for the Air Museum, noting that it had previously waived the fee for the Desert Museum expansion, because of its benefit to the entire community; and that the City had requested ' credit for regional projects it funded, prior to the regional arterial projects, and the Committee approved a $987,211.95 credit, which when added to the projects on Vista Chino and Gene Autry Trail ($93,469.05), evens that request. She noted that while there were persons present at the meeting, the Torres Indian issue was not on the CVAG agenda, and was not discussed. PUBLIC COMMENTS: a) Comments on matters not related to an agenda item: Leslie Howard -Gathers, resident, reported on progress of the City Hall Renovation Committee game sales. Art Lyons, resident, gave a report on the decision of the Federal Energy Regulation Cotumission, on the City's application for a "wheeling order," which was denied; and the need to seek clarification on a portion of its report in terms of "public interest," which he felt could be achieved without the expense of another hearing; that one commissioner dissented, and will be issuing a dissenting opinion; that decision will need to be made as to where to go from here; and that the FERC will hear testimony August 1 and discover, he believed, that there is no consensus in California about deregulation. Fred Ebeling, resident, commented on an incident at which there was a public ' demonstration on public sidewalks, and at which he was told he would be arrested if he continued to video-tape "Gloria Allred" who he stated accused him of violating her privacy. Linda Cooper Lee conmtented on censorship, which she felt was rife at the present time; and concerning a complaint she made regarding SunLine. Betty Tuminello, resident, commented on the need for a crosswalk at Alejo and Belardo, from the parking lot to the handicap ramp. She also commented concerning Mr. Ebeling's incident, and suggested police officers be trained as to how to handle such situations. b) Comments concerning Item 4: Darrell Meeks, resident, stated he was pleased the "no parking" restriction was being removed; that he prefers a 20-minute green zone to the 2-hour zone (105- recommended; and hoped that the 200 curb areas "illegally" painted red will be 001) looked at in terms of the number of spaces and how that would impact the need for a parking structure. He also requested that the public be made aware of any public funds which are to be spent concerting a continued effort to secure municipal electricity, even if such funds are to be reimbursed through private funding. Dick Sroda, resident, stated that the red curbing is not an insignificant problem„ when the overall cost for a parking structure is considered; that no one claims responsibility for having painted the curbs. He commented concerning Item 17, which he felt should have independent appraisals. (Note: See City Manager clarification under Consent Agenda.) Joe Moyna, Blimpies, stated he felt it would better to have the 20 minute zone, rather than a white zone, and a 2-hour parking would not help the merchants or others who seek short -tetra parking. 0146 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 4 b) d) e) Comments concerning Item 4 (Continued) Steve Lyle, property manager for Liebling Trust, stated a survey of the Liebling Building tenants showed the 20-minute parking would be better; and noted that 2-hour parking facilitates employee parking, by simply a movement of the vehicle every two hours. He added that the Liebling property has parking at the rear of the building, and efforts are underway to make it more discernible to the public. Comments concerning Item 5: Don Franck, resident, questioned wiry the issue was not a public hearing; why funds should be spent, when the property is already working; and whether there (108- will be justification that a parking structure may work when it is not needed. 004) Comments concerning Item 6: John Booth, officer of the P.S. Police Officers Memorial Fund spoke in support of the request for tournament fee waiver, and explained the purpose of the (092- memorial fund is to erect a statue in memory of the officers who have given their 013 ) life for the community. He explained that in addition to the tournament, funds' are raised through sale of commemorative bricks, and donor plaques. Comments concerning Item 7: Dr. Joseph Wilson, expressed a high opinion and regard .For the service provided; the nurses and personnel to tend to the patients; and urged approval of the lease. Don Stetson, Huntington Beach, on behalf of Carole Schutz, stated that efforts have been underway for several years to sell the building, however, since it is on Airport property, it must be an airport related use; that three prior escrows fell out, and lie believed it was because of unreasonable conditions of the lease; that there is a current escrow which has been opened with the proposed new tenant, who has been in business for seven years. He stated that the buyer seeks approval of a fuel truck for fueling and storage. Harold Lee, President of Millionair, and also representing Combs Gates, requested that the tenant be required to pay the same 1 % FBO fee and not be allowed to have self -fueling. Paul Emmerson, Impulse Circulation Services, Inc., stated that no charter services has actually paid the 1 % fee, and there are no air ambulance companies in Palm Springs; that charters outside of Palm Springs do not have to pay the 1 % fee, and may fuel for themselves. He explained how using a fuel -storage truck, he will be able to pump fuel for 81 cents, which includes city fuel flowage fees; that it will be safer and more efficient to do so; that they would still have to meet all safety standards and criteria as an PBO in that regard; that it would not establish precedent; and that none of his competitors are having to pay the same charges. Ladd Cameron, Impulse Circulation Services, Inc., stated that they are in the process of procuring a second plane; that they operate on a 4-7% profit margin, and the 1 % fee is equal to 14-25 % of their profit; that none of the top charters in the United States pay the 1 % fee; that they will generate employment benefit to the conununity, beautify the property which is not currently being used for the purpose for which it was constructed;rather is being used for auto restoration. LEGISLATIVE ACTION: (051- 025) (051- 091) 014-1 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 5 4. ON -STREET PARKING - TAHQUITZ CANYON/INDIAN CANYON Recommendation: That the Council approve an on -street parking layout for the NW corner of Tahquitz Canyon and Indian Canyon, providing for a 2-bour limited parking on both streets adjacent to Blimpies. i ' Director of Public Works reported that as a result of the public comments this date, it appears the area is in agreement with a 20-minute parking zone, and there are no (105- technical difficulties with that conclusion, and he, therefore, recommended that the 001) Council approve the parking plan'marked 'Proposed" included with the Council agenda materials, and on file with the City Clerk, which provides for 20-minute parking on portion of Taliquitz Canyon Way (north side) and Indian Canyon Drive (west side) adjacent to Blimpies. Councilmember Hodges noted that it is important for the public to know that the Council listens to what it has to say, and follow-up on this matter is an example of that, and she encouraged the public to continue to raise issues it feels are important. Councilmember Barnes stated that he appreciated that the issue was raised by a citizen comment, and noted that the Council has reviewed the red curb painting, and he felt it' should be included in any future studies that are made, and taken into account when parking needs are determined. He added that he felt some of the areas are questionable, but would still want the information addressed in order to have ant accurate study. City Manager noted that this topic will be a part of the discussion on Itern 5 herein. Councilmember Oden concurred that it is important for people that if they have a concern to meet and discuss it, and bring forward a collective concern to the Council. Minute Order 5782 as the recommendation was revised, was presented; after which, it was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that MO5782 be adopted.' 5. DOWNTOWN PARKING STRUCTURE - ECONOMIC FEASIBILITY STUDY Recommendation: That the Council approve agreement with Keyser Marston Associates Inc., for an economic feasibility study for financing the downtown parking structure, for an amount not to exceed $15,600, A3686. City Manager reported that the decision whether to build a parking structure was deferred (108- until the proposed study was completed; that the recommended firm has done business 004) with the City before; that the study would include adequacy of the number of spaces, convenience of parking spaces, above and underground parking, and to look at the red curb issue, as well as whether a parking structure will cover die anticipated cost and if not; how much would a shortfall be and how much revenue would it generate: He stated that the Downtown Development Director has reviewed the parking issue, and the strength of conunitment to a parking structure is waning; that he felt the study will support a parking plan, but it may not necessarily include a parking structure. Councilmember Hodges stated that she abstained previously on this matter, because of possible conflict concerning Mr. Wessman, and after conferring with the City Attorney, she,would also abstain on this matter, since she would still have a conflict if the study results in moving ahead with the parking structure. ' In response to questions by the Mayor, the, City Manager stated that the cost of the study will be deducted from the original budget amendment of $285,000, which included $245,000 for surface parking lot improvements and $40,000 for economic and engineering studies, and ;the,, remaining $25,000 should be sufficient for engineering studies. Councilmember Barnes stated he could only support a parking structure if he knew all of the factors, and the only way to know those factors is to have the study completed; that it will enable trim, as well as the community and others, to arrive at a decision; and that it is important that the red curb issue be studied very carefully. 0148 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 6 5. DOWNTOWN PARKING STRUCTURE - ECONOMIC ]FEASIBILITY STUDY (Continued) Councilmember Spurgin noted that she was ill when the parking structure was last discussed, and unable to express her view; that she was uncertain whether a structure is needed; that the Desert Fashion Plaza has considerable unused space, but people do not know how to get to it; that she had not paid much attention to the red curb painting, until Mr. Meeks brought it to the Council's attention, and there may be adequate parking if that is considered; that she was conservative and did not favor spending money, however, the information is needed in order to make an informed and intelligent decision. Mayor concurred, and added that the intent in April was to secure a study and determine if the parking structure is feasible and economical, which the Council did not have the ability to do without the study, which is what was authorized, and the recorrunendation is the result of that authorization; that a "yes" answer to the questions would only mean the Council must still make a decision; that he was .not certain whether there is a problem; that he believes there are areas of congestion; that the study is needed, and the City needs to be sure it is ahead of the curve, and not wait until there is a ;problem. In answer to question by the Council, City Manager suggested that a staff review will be needed concerning the red curb issue, in order for the consultant to consider and include it in the study, which will involve the traffic engineer as some of the areas involve safely issues; and that when that is completed, he will bring it to the Council when it is provided to the consultant. He also stated that the study will focus on city -managed lots and parking, although the total scope of parking will be looked at in order to arrive at conclusions, and while signs for DFP Lot may not be a heavy item with the consultant, the staff can look at it, and fold in its recommendations. Minute Order 5783 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Barnes, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that MO5783 be adopted. 6. TAHQUITZ CREEK RESORT COURSE - TOURNAMENT FEE WAIVER Recommendation: That the Council approve application by the Palm Springs Police Officers' Association for waiver of tournament fees for a golf tournament to be held in (092- late October, 1996, at the Resort Course, Tahquitz Creek. 013 ) City Manager reported that this is the first application under the new policy concerning waivers; and that the group qualifies as a 501C non-profit organization; and that the Parks & Recreation Commission recommended approval. Minute Order 5784 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that MO5784 be adopted: AIRPORT LEASE (SCHUTZ HANGAR) -'IMPULSE CIRCULATION SERVICES Recommendation: That the Council approve a standard form lease agreement with (051- Impulse Circulation Services, Inc., dba Superior Transport Service, Inc., for operation 091) of an air ambulance, on -demand charter service and certified) repair station, on site currently under lease to Carol Schutz (A1728), A3687. Director of Transportation noted that an extensive report was provided to the Council, a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk, and slated that there have been difficulties with the building, and two escrows have fallen out; that the staff has worked hard in trying to improve the incentives to achieve the transition, and a letter was sent, which he described, providing a total of $40,000+ on five matters other than the self -fueling or 1 payment; that the Airport is unlike any other property that might be leased; that the fees and FBO are key elements, and he could not recommend lessening the I % fee or fuel service, which are important to the past history and future of the Airport, i.e., with the customs service coming forward;, that there has never been an incentive offered to anyone to,assume,tii;existing lease, since'typically it is vacant land and the tenant wants to build; andr']re recommended the proposed lease ternrs, u addition to the incentive package, in a form to be approved by the City Attorney. (051- 025) 1 1 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 7 0149 AIRPORT LEASE (SCHUTZ HANGAR) - IMPULSE CIRCULATION SERVICES (Continued) In answer to questions, Fire Chief stated that it was not correct that he advised Mr. Emmerson that it was safer to fuel truck to truck, rather if such were employed, what would need to be done to mitigate the hazards; that it was indicated to Mr. Emmerson such mitigation would be very costly; that truck -to -truck fueling poses problems concerning fumes, spillage and resultant hazardous materials without containment facilities; and that the operator has first responsibility for cleanup; and that the long -haul truckers must also meet DOT and other certification requirements. In response to questions, Director of Transportation stated that the leases provide indemnity for the City, however, the Airport would have deep -pocket exposure. He stated the 1 % is a long-established fee, which comes from the FBO leases and which require its payment; that there was fixed charter operation out of AMR and it paid the 1 %; and that currently there is a small operator being audited, and if found deficient, will be required to make the payment; that there are no big charter operations rights now, but the fee is applied to persons who arrive or lease the Airport and not other locations which the charter may serve; and that there is no set standard at airports concerning this issue. He stated that the FBOs have invested about $10 million between the two (AMR and' Millionair) and have combine rentals of about $250,000; that a precedent would be established to allow the self -fueling and non-payment of Are 1 % which he believed would undermine the operation of the Airport for the long term. He stated that the only airport he could determine which allows truck -to -truck fueling is San Bernardino, and it is only on a temporary basis and Are airport was recently converted from military to civil purposes and did not have the fuel tanks on site, and he believed it was the intent to ultimately provide a full, fuel facility; and the truck -to -truck at the Palm Springs Airport has never been allowed. ' In answer to questions by Council, Mr. Emmerson stated that the truck -to -truck would enable him to pay 81 cents per gallon, which includes a 5 cent per gallon delivery cost, compared to tite $1.349 offered by the FBO; that the added costs for an above ground facility might not take long to pay-off, however, they did not have the start up funds for it. In answer to question by Council, Director of Transportation stated that the order of risk for fueling is: no fueling (least), below ground, above ground fixed facility, and above ground, mobile facility (highest); that the safety issue is the highest concern; that there are upfront costs to install a facility. Councilmember Barnes stated that his line of questioning was focused on the possibility that if the tenant could get a good rate for tie fuel, the difference between it and the FBO rate, could reduce the cost of the fixed facility in a short period, and provide a safe delivery system. Councilmember Oden stated lie was concerned that when businesses come to the community, that the City offer the maximum amount of assistance it can, and lie was pleased with the incentive program noted by the Director of Transportation, to make the transition as smooth as possible; that he would like to do something about the other two issues, but could not do so in the interest of safety, nor would the I % apply to the entire business; and he felt the offer was reasonable, and he would like to see the business remain in Palm Springs. ' Minute Order 5785 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded,by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that M05785 including the $40,367 incentive package outlined in the Director of Transportation's letter of July 25, 1996, a copy of which is on file with the City Clerk, be adopted, in a form to be approved by the City' Attorney. . 8. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS (051- 091) (051- 025) 01` 0 Council Minutes 7-31.-96, Page 8 CONSENT AGENDA: Note: City Manager reported that concerning Item 17, the City is not involved in the sale of the property, rather there is an outstanding lien on it, and the settlement payment represents settlement for the original lien, without interest. 9. MO 5786 awarding contract to Sahara Waterproofing for $33,350 (Schedule B) for (085- 013 ) ' resurfacing of the Palm Springs Youth Center Gymnasium floor at 3601 E. Mesquite Avenue, using CDBG finds, CP94-33, A3688. 10. MO 5787 approving an architectural services agreement with James Cioffi, for $36,000, (143- 006 ) plus reimbursable, for the design of the Rail Station Shelter, subject to a grant allocation from the California Transportation Commission, A3689. II. MO 5788 approving first amendment with ASL Consulting Engineers for $7,950, for (143-• construction staking services at the Railroad Station Site, CP92 40, A3434. 006:1 12. MO 5789 approving Change Order #1 to Al Miller & Sons Roofing, Inc., for $9,750, for (109- removal and replacement of ducting and air conditioning units and installation of two roof 006 ) drains at the Desert Highland Unity Center, CP94-34, A3658. 13. MO 5790 awarding contract to Interstate Striping Inc. for $71,546, for the City-wide (009- bikeway signing and striping, an SB821 Bikeway Grant, CP95� 19, A3690. 14. MO 5791 awarding contract to Blue Moon for $5,350, for exterior painting of the Plaza (124- Theater at 128 S. Palm Canyon Drive, CP95-20, A3691. 074,) 15, MO 5792 approving Amendment #1 with the Welwood Murray Memorial Library, Inc., (099"' 005 ) to allow closure of the Library during the month of August, A3120. 16. MO 5793 approving amendment #3 with Robert Bein, William Frost and Associates for (130- 001) ' $112,500 for increased services related to the Mid -Valley Parkway west end design, CP94-19, A3298. 17. MO 5794 approving an offer of settlement of $26,478.98 city lien, totaling $34,290.26, (057- with penalties and interest through July 31, 1996, on a vacant lot located at 2246 Pasco 007 ) de Roseta for $25,000 to Angel View Crippled Children's Foundation Inc. 18. MO 5795 approving agreement with Construction Testing & Engineering Inc., for (051- $12,000 for testing and inspection services related to the airport ticket wing expansion, 055) A3692; Kleindienst abstained. It was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that MO5786 through 5795, be adopted, with abstention as noted. ADDED STARTERS 19. P.S. GUIDE - ADVERTISING, Consideration of amendment to'contract with Desert Publications to allow for advertising in the Fall/Winter edition of the visitors guide by the Desert Gay Tourism Guild. It was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that this matter be determined eligible for consideration, and added to the agenda. ' Tourism Director, reported drat the Visitor & Promotion Cormlission felt that the end (050- 001.) result of allowing the guild to advertise would be to obtain information about businesses which are not located inside of the City; and the Commission did not recommend changing the contract with the Desert Publications. In response to question by Council, Ire stated that there are ten gay hotels, and the Guide will probably end up with 3-4 of them advertising in it, with the remainder going to the Guild's independent publication. 151 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 9 19. P.S. GUIDE - ADVERTISING (Continued) Councilmember Hodges stated that the gay tourism segment is a valuable aspect of the tourism business and she would not like to lose it, and questioned the portion of the contract which would preclude the Guild from being included. ' Tourism Director stated that Sections F and G of the Scope of Services is not clear, but the Commission felt it would be setting a precedent, by allowing the Guild to be included, which ultimately results in advertising for out-of-town businesses; and because the Guide is the fulfillment piece for the City; and that there are three gay hotels in Cathedral City. Councilmember Oden stated that the Guild only includes gay tourist services, and provides information about attractions for that community, which are not located in Palm Springs. Mayor expressed concern with allowing any organization that does not represent entirely and exclusively Palm Springs to be included in the Guide, and considered it counter productive to advertise anything other than Palm Springs, e.g., the various chambers of commerce, or the Greater P.S. Hotel Association, and other organization that deal with intercity relationships; that the Guide is intended as pure Palm Springs as possible, with (050- understanding there are limited attractions, e.g., the Living Desert Reserve; and lie was 001) reluctant to allow a guild, chamber or other body to come in which, even though it includes Palm Springs, it includes other areas. He stated that he did not see how the envelope could be stretched, without opening the door to allowing others which also do not advertise or promote Palm Springs. Councilmember Spurgin stated that the Council has spent a lot of time over the last few weeks on the issue of the Guide, and she felt it should be privatized, and someone else should worry about it, and publish whatever they wished. ' Councilmember Barnes concurred with the Mayor, and stated lie was sympathetic to the idea of privatizing, as long as it in no way represented that it was a City publication; that he felt the contract should not be amended, and he felt strongly about not including businesses outside of the City. He moved to not amend the contract; said motion was seconded by Spurgin. Councilmember Hodges stated she had mixed feelings about the entire issue; that it is a Palm Springs publication, however, an entire tourist market might not be attracted to the Guide because of the possibility of having some of their members it: another city; that the Guild is a tourist group, consisting of businesses and attractions beneficial to the tourism industry; that the chamber of commerce relates to retail businesses and anyone who wants to belong to it; that the Guild would not have a large representation in this issue because most of the businesses will be advertising in the new publication. Councilmember Oden stated he understood the concern about advertising outside of the City; that certain communities, specifically the gay community, permeate the geographic boundaries of Palm Springs; that there are people who come and stay in Palm Springs hotels, and go to the clubs which are a part of the attraction to the area; that if there is no advertising that these activities are in the community, then it reduces the number of tourists who come to Palm Springs as a result of the Guide; that the gay community is different from other communities, and it is a packaged deal; that if the privatizing happens, that would be fine, but until that occurs, or there is some other transition, it would be to the City's advantage to approve the request. Councilmember, Spurgin stated that the problem is the Way in which the guidelines are writteni,in; that it states that outside businesses are not included; that she believes everyone,: should be able to advertise in whatever way they 'wish, and this was not a life- style issue;' Aud if the guidelines should be amended; ;that should come back to the Council. 1:)15x Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 10 19. P.S. GUIDE - ADVERTISING (Continued) Councilmember Hodges stated that the Living Desert Reserve, the Camelot, and the casinos are currently being advertised in the Guide, and questioned how these "attractions" are different from other "attractions" in another city that might be gay oriented. ' Mayor stated that there may be leakage in the guidelines, and they should be reviewed; that the intent of the Guide is to advertise Palm Springs and its local businesses; that once the door is opened, anyone will be able to advertise, and if that is the case, there would (050- be no benefit for the City to be involved, nor should it be a City publication; that there 001) are resources for such advertising or promotions. Tourism Director reported that when the guidelines were :seated, the Commission considered what "attractions" meant, and concluded that golf was a major attraction to the Valley, and the Guide has included the various courses; that casinos were also considered attractions, and that the Camelot was included because the Commission was concerned that the advertising image of Palm Springs was "adult" and wanted to attract "families". Councilmember Hodges noted that the golf courses are already being included, as well as casinos and. the Camelot, which is a business, and precedent: has already been set; and until there is a review to address the guidelines, she did not see how the request could be denied. Motion by Barnes, seconded by Spurgin, to not amend the contract and to deny the request, failed to carry by the following vote: AYES: Barnes and Kleindienst NOES: Hodges, Oden & Spurgin ABSENT: None ' Motion by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, that the P:S. Visitor Guide include an advertisement from the Gay Tourism Guild, carried by the following vote: AYES: Hodges, Oden & Spurgin NOES: Barnes and Kleindienst ABSENT: None Councilmember Spurgin stated she would like to have the privatizing issue come back to the agenda. City Manager stated that the Guide and the City's role in it as it relates to the guidelines can be scheduled for a future meeting. REPORT OR REQUESTS: DEPARTMENTAL received for filing (002:1 a) Treasurer's monthly summary May 31, 1996 COUNCIL reports or requests „r a) : �� (, Board/Commission Appointments: Upon motions made by the Mayor, duly seconded, die following appointments were confirmed: (060-- : r , Human Rights Commission - 1 full term Stan Layne Prosamle; and 1 term ends 027 ) 6730-98 T.C. Wilder (060- Parks & Recreation Commission - 1 term ends 6-30.98 Jeffrey Gaire Keane 021) Planning Commission: 1 full term Ralph Raya (060- Rent Review Commission,- full term Tracy Gunnesaan 015 ) (060- 016 ) 01153 Council Minutes 7-31-96, Page 11 a) Board/Commission Appointments (Continued) Visitor & Promotion Commission: 150+ room - full term Guy Hensley; and 51- (060- 100 room (in -lieu of term ending 6-30-98) - non -category Bob Parrott, interim 024) term 6-30-97 b) Discussion/direction concerning August meeting schedule: Expected schedule for August is: August 7, 1996, for closed session followed by reg open session at 7 p.m., preceded by Closed Session at 5:30 p.m., and no further meetings until September 4, 1996. c) Councilmember Oden reported that he conducted "tours" of the various city departments, and expressed a deeper appreciation of the organization, management and staff-, and reported on attendance at events since the last meeting, in particular, noting a visit to the Chuckwalla/Cottonwood neighborhood and affirmation of the importance of addressing the neighborhood needs in a different way. d) Councilmember Barnes commended the P.S. Youth Baseball's "all star" team which progressed through tournament play to San Diego. e) Councilmember Hodges commended staff for pursuing application for grants, and for securing many in various areas; and that report of those should be forthcoming to the public. PUBLIC reports or requests a) Karen Aguilar, thanked Councilmember Barnes for being a referee during the mid -week activities at the Youth Center. STAFF reports or requests a) Director of Transportation noted that in view of recent events elsewhere, security has been stepped up at the Airport, and encouraged people to check -in early. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business at 9:40 p.m., Mayor declared the meeting adjourned to 5:30 p.m., for Closed Session, followed by regular meeting on August 7, 1996 at 7 p.m. -_�JUDITH SUMICII City Clerk