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HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 - MINUTES - 2/19/1997 Ala CITY OF PALM SPRINGS CITY COUNCIL MINUTES FEBRUARY 19, 1997 A 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, February 19, 1997 at 5:30 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, Odcn, Spmgin, and Mayor ' Kleindienst Absent: None The meeting was opened with the Salute to the Flag, led by Boy Scout Troop 905, and an invocation by Rev. T.C. Wilder, Ajalon Baptist Church. REPORT OF POSTING OF AGENDA: City Clerk reported that time agenda was posted in accordance with Council procedures on February 14, 1997. REPORT OF CITY ATTORNEY ON MATTERS DISCUSSED IN CLOSED SESSION (All Entities) - See items on Page 4 of agenda this date. HOUSING AUTHORITY: FINANCING AUTHORITY: INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY - No business PRESENTATIONS: PSHS Student Body Report Proclamation to Arthur & Clarice Barrett for Solar Electric Command Unit gift to the City for fire and emergency command centers. COMMUNITY REDEVELOPMENT AGENCY: Mayor declared the meeting adjourned for the ' purpose of convening as the Community Redevelopment Agency; after which, members reconvened as the City Council. COUNCIL COMMENTS/ANNOUNCEMENTS: a) Council and Mayor reported on various community events and meetings attended since the last meeting; and of coming events of community interest. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None INTERAGENCY REPORTS: a) Mayor reported on meeting of the PSDRCVB, at which the possibility of placing a cap on membership dues was discussed, and any action would await report of Councilmember Hodges subcommittee. b) Councilmember Barnes reported on the PSDRCVB Airline Task Force,and drat an announcement would be forthcoming concerning retaining American Airlines during the summer. c) Councilmember Oden recommended as many members as possible attend the League of California Cites Inland Empire Division meeting in Palm Desert on February 27. d) Councilmember Hodges announced change in meeting schedule for the next , CVAG Executive Committee, to be held at the Palm Desert Library, at 5 p.m. PUBLIC COMMENTS: 0r�',i Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 2 a) Comments concerting Items 4 and 5: Tom Noble, representing BLT Enterprises, stated that it has been involved in the (123- CVAG process since the beginning of it, and that$38.50 per ton is what was in 011) its proposal; that BLT supports two stations rather than one, which will serve a ' larger area, and prevent illegal dumping, as well as assure disposal in the event (148- one site is not accessible due to emergency situations. 003) Dick Sroda, resident, commented that trash rates will escalate, and the report refers to an average 11% increase, which he did not approve of when the Council was asking for approval of the utility tax; b) Comments on matters not related to an agenda item: Don Leibling Frank, resident, questioned wiry there is an item on the Closed Session agenda concerning the Welwood Library site, and implied that it was being sold in connection with Bullocks Parking Lot, which he considered a disgrace. Fred Ebeling, resident, commented on city government and his opinions related thereto; and suggested that the Council should share with the public the things it is doing. LEGISLATIVE ACTION: 1. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER GUIDELINES Recornnendation: That the Council approve guidelines for the operation of the Visitor Information Center, submitted by the Visitors & Promotion Commission. Tourism Director reported that the guidelines, with minor changes, were in effect since (117- 1977; that the revised guidelines were developed by subcommittee of the Commission, 036) and unanimously approved by the Commission. In answer to question by Council, he stated that other casinos are allowed to display material as long as they offer activities not offered by the Spa Casino, e.g., bingo, off-track wagering; that the Spa Casino does not have a wall display at the Center, and the others pay $120 per month to have wall displays; that the Spa has been contacted, and there have been discussions as to the possibility of its utilizing wall space; that the Center does not direct visitors to the other casinos, but questions are asked. Councihnember Hodges stated she had a problem with allowing out-of-town attractions to promote themselves at the Center, which should be for only Palm Springs. Councilmember Odell stated that it may work against the City to do so, and that he would like to first promote Palm Springs, and if the space is not completely utilized, otters might be accommodated. Tourism Director stated that the purpose of the Center is to fill hotel rooms, shops and restaurants, and as many attractions as possible are needed to keep visitors who may be desiring to stay 3-5 days; that the Commission feels the Tramway, Indian Canyons, and Living Desert Reserve are quality attractions which help to make a visit to Palm Springs more meaningful for the tourist. ' Mayor stated that lie agreed with the concept, but was concerned that the visitor may be inclined to go to the other Valley areas if those attractions are displayed at the Center. Tourism Director stated that, e.g., Joshua Tree Monument is a very popular attraction, especially with German visitors, and they are encouraged to stay in nearby Palm Springs hotels. In answer to question by Council, he stated that the goal is to serve the visitor's needs -location,price, type of facility desired, and the amenities they are seeking; that the Visitor Center counselors make a quick assessment of that, and with their experience, are able to make recommendations; that there are 90 Palm Springs hotels which participate, and he felt the referral was distributed evenly, recognizing the visitor's needs, as well as 2 Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 3 1. VISITOR INFORMATION CENTER GUIDELINES (Continued) availability and location; and that of the 90 hotels, on an average, about 50 hotels will receive reservations through the Center during a month. He also stated that if Palm Springs bad casinos wbich had the same things offered in other casinos, then those others would not be displayed at the Center; that there is not enough room on the walls for , sanctioned event posters, and the door and windows are used for those; that national event information, e.g., the Bob Hope Classic, is available upon request at the counter, and those events must be approved by the Commission; and that there is no Chamber of Commerce conflict on Item 9 in the guidelines. Mayor questioned if the Center's fees are included in the Comprehensive Fee Schedule. City Attorney stated that he felt it should be included, and approved by the Council; that there should also be language in the guidelines regarding similarity of attractions, a process for determination, and an ability for an appeal; That there are separate hotel, 1I7- restaurant, etc., brochure racks, in which there is adequate space for all liotels in the hotel 036) rack, and language concerning wall space and priorities for it. It was the consensus of the Council that special events posters should be professionally displayed, and not inset or taped to glass windows or doors. Councilmember Hodges stated that she still had a problem with Items 3 and 7; and questioned if other casinos from San Diego wanted to display at the Center, if they would be included; that payment of the fee does not make it right; that the Center provides a great deal of foot traffic in return for$150 per month, and the lass of 1-2 people per day could mean a big loss to businesses in Palm Springs; and that she: opposed publicizing the "Camelot" amusement center. She stated she did not oppose allowing the brochures for these uses, but opposed wall displays; and that the Center should not subsidize businesses out of the area. Councilmember Barnes stated that the attractions are those which will fill Palm Springs' ' hotels, and should be geographically in proximity to Palm Springs hotels to make sense in allowing diem at the Center. In response to question, Tourism Development Coordinator stated that of the 40 wall displays, there currently are 3 out of area attractions, i.e., Desert Adventures, Camelot and Fantasy Springs Casino; and that if down valley attractions are excluded, group tours will be lost. Councilmember Hodges stated that booking tours is not the same as wall space at the Center. Tourism Development Coordinator stated that nine of ten persons who inquire about the casinos end up at the Spa Casino because they prefer the short driving distance, and occasionally, there will be visitors who have been to it, and know there are other casinos and ask about them. Councilmember Oden stated that Ire was concerned about advertising outside of the area activity, but also about overacting to the concern, to the point that it could hurt the community, rather than help it. City Attorney was directrd to prepare revised guidelines, as he suggested, and to leave "brackets" around those areas where the discussion has indicated no consensus, which shall be brought back to the Council for approval. ' 2. CDBG, 1997-98 Housing & CDBG Coordinator reported initial result of the number of applications received, and the total dollars represented, and that the entitlement for 1997-98 will be (085- $632,000, compared to the $1.6 million in requests. In response to question by Council, 013) she stated that the requests include $100,000 for portion of the Crossley storm drain project, which would leave $310,000 for capital improvements. 0�r�, Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 4 (Note: Items 3, 4 and 5, were approved in inverse order.) 3. CVAG SOLID WASTE & RECYCLING PROGRAM Recommendation: That the Council approve a contribution of$4,080 to cover the City ' of Palm Springs' share of two month's supplemental funding for the above program. City Manager supported the recommendation, noting that CVAG is the lead agency on the regional waste character study and the data will be needed for the Bedminster project; (123- and that the cost of the funding will come from the Recycling Fund. 011) In answer to question by Council, Director of Finance explained bow the CVAG formula is derived, i.e., a combination if population and assessed value, which is adjusted amorally. Minute Order 5909 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that MO5909 be adopted. 4. CVAG TRANSFER STATION/MRF TASK FORCE & SOLID WASTE MANAGEMENT JPA Recommendation: That the Council accept the final report of like Task Force, and consider approval of the JPA to create the Coachella Valley Solid Waste Management (123- Authority. 011) City Manager recommended this matter be deferred for 60 days until the results of Item 5 are reviewed; that there are questions as to the effect of Prop. 218 on the entire issue, and the City Attorney will be looking more closely at those; and that there needs to be certainly that the General Fund will not have to back stop the issuance of any bonds. He ' stated that time is not as critical of an issue as in Item 3, and he considered it even less so, as he reviews the actions being taken by other cities. Mayor stated that he did not believe any Councilmembers needed more JPA type of meetings to attend, and was concerned that members may already be overburdened with meetings; and that Palm Springs' view may be diminished, when it is expressed only as one of several members of a JPA. Councilmember Spurgin requested that when this matter is returned, it be for study session review and discussion. It was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Barnes, and unanimously carried, that this matter be continued for study session in 60 days. 5. MUNICIPAL COMPOSTING - DESIGN & FINANCING PROPOSAL EVALUATION Recommendation: That the Council approve agreement. with Robert Tardy & Associates for $10,000 to provide an evaluation of the feasibility of the Bedminster design and private financing proposal, A3767. City Manager reviewed the memorandum of the Director of Economic Development, and (148- stated that the City has been working with Bedminster, and is at the stage where expertise 003) is needed to provide the analysis to determine whether to proceed with the project; and that the report should give that information to the Council for its decision, in order not to go too far along in the process so as to be unable to terminate it, and the staff will be in a position to be able to recommend a clear yes, or no to proceed. In answer to questions by the Council, he stated that analysis of physical, location for mitigating trash collection will need to be included, and part of the total costs related to the citing issue, as well as some sludge issues, the environment and maintenance issues. Minute Order 5910 as recommended, was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that MO5910 be adopted. 0 0214 Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 5 6. TOWING & STORAGE SERVICES Recommendation: That the Council authorize the City Manager to execute final negotiated agreements with the approved firms under one of two options. City Manager recommended Option 2, as detailed in the memorandum of the Police (143- Chief, and that contracts be returned for final approval by the City Council; and that the 004) current contracts be extended until that time, estimated at 30 days. Minute Order 5911 (Opt 2) was presented; after which, it was moved by Oden, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that MO5911 be adopted, subject to approval by the City Council; and that existing towing agreements be extended to April 3, 1997. 7. 1996-97 BUDGET ADJUSTMENTS - MIDYEAR Recommendation: That the Council amend the budget to reflect changes in transfers out and internal loan repayments due to refinancing Police Building/Cogen Plant and Golf (061- Course bond issues; adjustments to revenue estimates; transfer out from Risk Management 021) Fund to General Fund; bookkeeping of loan from PERS Fund to the Golf Course Fund; appropriate to cover cost of labor settlements with bargaining units, including estimate for those not yet settled; and appropriate to cover legal cost associated with labor negotiations. Councilmember Hodges noted that the action formalizes prior actions of the Council. Resolutions 18976, 18977, 18978, 18979, 18980 and 18981 as recommended, were presented; after which, it was moved by Hodges, seconded by Spurgin, and unanimously carried, that R18976 through 18981 be adopted. ADDITIONAL LEGISLATIVE ITEMS: ' A8. SUNLINE TRANSIT - TEMPORARY ALTERNATE MEMBER Mayor noted that both the member and alternate member to the Sunline Transit Agency will be out of the City for the Agency's next meeting, and requested a temporary (060- allernate. Councilmember Spurgin indicated she was willing to do so; and it was moved 010), by Oden, seconded by Hodges, and unanimously carried, that Councilmember Spurgin be designated as temporary alternate member. CONSENT AGENDA: 9. Res 18982 updating policy resolution concerning budget adjustments, amendments and (114- transfer of fiords, adding the Office of Management&Budget; and rescinding Res 16514, 004) as amended. 10. MO 5912 awarding contract for annual street slurry seal programs, citywide, CP96-15, to American Asphalt Repair & Resurfacing Co., Inc., for $750,000, A3769. 051(051 ) Question was raised by Council whether sonic of the funds could be directed to overlay the recent chip seal project, which has produced a number of complaints and claims. Consensus: This project will slurry seal the majority of residential streets, which otherwise would be sacrificed for lack of funding; diverting funds would not get the most for the money; chip seal should smooth out dining surmner; a close evaluation will be made if chip seal is to be considered for future streets, recognizing it considerably ' prolongs the life of the street; Council may have to re-examine the issue if there are still complaints in the Fall. 11. Res 18983 approving agreement with the Southland Group, concerning grading for TPM (137- 26364, located 2121, 2221, 2321 and 2421 N. Sunrise Way, Sec. 2, A3771. 079) 12. MO 5913 approving agreement with James Rue Construction Co., Inc., for $8,750 for asphalt concrete paving of a 10-ft x 659 It strip on the N1/2 of Via Escucla, east of (136•- Hermosa, at the new Lucky's Market, CP97-05, A3768. 051) ''63 Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 6 13. Res 18984 amending the Comprehensive Fee Schedule to add fees for Internal Freight for (114- federal inspection services provided by U.S. Customs Services. 010) 14, MO 5914 awarding contract to V&M Construction Co.,Inc., for$86,650(Bid Schedule (109- A) for construction of playground equipment at Desert Highland Park; and Change Order 006) No. 1 thereto, to reduce the contract by $19,025, for a net total of$67,625, CP96-37, ' A3770. Purchasing Manager explained that the project was down-scaled on two occasions, in an effort to match budget funds; and that recipients sometimes request funding, but do not include requests sufficient to cover federal requirements. Council requested a listing of outstanding CDBG projects, reasons for delays, and opportunity to redirect unused funds, i.e., if the project is unable to proceed. 15. Res 18985 and 18986 approving Payroll Warrants & Claims & Demands. Abstained: (086- Barnes ##918194; Hodges #918194, 919209, 918279; and Spurgin##918368. 015) 16. Res 18987 approving amendment to Film Festival agreement (No. 3090) to extend the term for 5 years, subject to conditions (pursuant to Council action 2-5-97), in form (050- approved by City Attorney. 010) It was moved by Spurgin, seconded by Oden, and unanimously carried, that Resolutions 18982 through 18997 and Minute Orders 5912 through 5914 be adopted; with abstentions noted in Item 15. ADDED STARTERS: None REPORTS & REQUESTS: ' CITY COUNCIL reports or requests a) Councilmember Spurgin requested that concerning Item 12 above, staff look at the affect the negative median island has had on businesses on the east side of Sunrise Way, in terms of lost business. Councilmember Hodges agreed it is a challenge to navigate, and asked that the number of signs on Sunrise Way at that point also be looked at, as there are many, and they are visually polluting. Councilmember Oden stated that lie also received letters concerning the loss of business, and stated that other circumstances need to also be looked at, e.g., competing business in the area. b) Councilmember Oden asked if there can be any help in response to the Human Rights Commission letter regarding an April heating, and broadcasting it; also for information whether there is an ordinance concerning feeding wild animals. c) In response to question by Council, City Clerk reported that the armual recruitment process for boards and commissions is on schedule; and that a list of applicants for current vacancies was provided to the Council, and those applications will be included in the annual recruitment if an appointment is not made sooner. d) Councilmember Hodges requested that the Council receive the detailed budget binder, which shows the supporting backup data, similar to that which the Assistant City Manager utilized at budget sessions in 1996. PUBLIC reports or requests - None Council Minutes 2-19-97, Page 7 STAFF reports or requests a) City Manager recommended changes in workshop elates clue to absences of Councihnembers. Consensus: No study session, February 26, 1997- Mayor and Councilmember Barnes to be in Washington, D.C., remaining members to attend League Division meeting in Palm Desert. Workshop to be scheduled ]March 11, , 5 p.m., no other intervening workshops or study sessions. ADJOURNMENT There being no further business at 9:50 p.m., Mayor declared the meeting adjourned. JUDITH SUMICH City Clerk 1